Countries recognise the Anna Lindh Report on Intercultural Trends as a central tool to shape the UN-backed strategy against a ‘clash of ignorance’

Malta, 10 November 2010: In a demonstration of political commitment for regional cooperation, the very first United Nations-backed Regional Strategy on intercultural dialogue in the Mediterranean region was endorsed by Ministers and government representatives from 40 countries gathering in La Valetta (Malta).

Delivering the forum’s opening speech, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malta, Dr Tonio Borg, underlined the importance of the recently published Anna Lindh Report on Intercultural Trends in shaping an effective strategy aimed at building human and cultural relations in the Mediterranean, stating:

“The scientific survey carried out by the Anna Lindh Foundation is an eye opener in itself, highlighting key trends such as levels and methods of interaction between people, the vision of the European Union for the Mediterranean and the role of media in promoting cultural diversity.”

The regional strategy for the Mediterranean was first proposed by the President of Egypt following last year’s outbreak of the Gaza war.  Speaking at the opening, Jorge Sampaio, the United Nations High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations said:

“Following the Gaza war, the UN Alliance and the Anna Lindh Foundation jointly launched the initiative ‘Restore Trust, Rebuild Bridges’ aimed at addressing the impact of the conflict on cross-cultural relations in the region.  Building on this initiative, we must increase our common action against the ‘clash of ignorance’ between people and communities.”

The Anna Lindh Foundation’s headquarters was represented at the UN Forum by Gemma Aubarell and Paul Walton who were invited to lead and shape discussions on priority action related to ‘developing understanding for diversity’ and ‘breaking stereotypes and misconceptions’, as well as maximizing the conclusions of the Anna Lindh Report 2010.

The Forum was also an occasion to present a new resource and programme for which provides journalists access to the region’s leading intercultural commentators, as well as opportunities for media practitioners involved in cross-cultural affairs , is part of a joint media strategy initiated by the European Commission, the Anna Lindh Foundation and the UN Alliance of Civilizations.

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For press and media inquiries please contact:

Paul Walton

Communication Manager

Anna Lindh Foundation

paul.walton@bibalex.org

Ingy Sedky

Press and Media Officer

Anna Lindh Foundation

Ingy.sedky@bibalex.org