Yerevan international conference on "Achieving Sustainable Peace Through Cultural Diversity'' adopts declaration

The two-day international conference “Cultural Crossroads,” dedicated to the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, has concluded. The closing event was attended by Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Artur Martirosyan and Toussaint Tiendrebeogo, Secretary of the UNESCO 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.

Delegations from more than a dozen countries, as well as representatives from UNESCO and various international organizations, participated in the conference, the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of the Republic of Armenia reported.

“During these two days, we addressed the fundamental principles of the Convention, shared the experiences of our countries, and touched upon important issues regarding artificial intelligence, the formation of a favorable environment for the development of artists and the creative sector, copyright, and the protection of the rights of cultural figures in emergency situations. I am convinced that intelligent solutions to these issues will contribute to the more effective implementation of the Convention. Remaining faithful to the Crossroads of Peace principle adopted by the Republic of Armenia, we tried to stand at the cultural crossroads, creating a platform for informal communication as well,” said Artur Martirosyan. He thanked the UNESCO Secretariat and all the guests for participating in the “Cultural Crossroads” Yerevan International Conference.

Secretary of the Convention, Toussaint Tiendrebeogo, highly appreciated the organization of the conference, noting that it demonstrates the Republic of Armenia’s commitment to the key ideas of the Convention.

At the end of the “Cultural Crossroads” international conference, the Yerevan Declaration on Achieving Sustainable Peace through Cultural Diversity was adopted.

The declaration affirms that cultural diversity is an integral part of humanity’s history and heritage, contributing to the development of mutual connections, education, and the strengthening of peace. It also states that cultural diversity creates an environment for interaction among different nations, cultures, languages, ideas and traditions, contributing to the creation of new values.

“Special emphasis was placed on the active use of innovative digital technologies for the preservation, dissemination, and promotion of cultural diversity. The importance of developing tolerance and cultural dialogue through cultural diversity was also highlighted, based on the principles of respect for cultural differences, non-discrimination, and peaceful cooperation,” the statement said.