Pope receives in audience UNESCO Director

(January 18, 2011) Pope Benedict XVI received in audience on Monday Irina Bokova, director-general of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, UNESCO. A communique of the Vatican press office reported that the cordial discussions provided an opportunity for a fruitful exchange of opinions on UNESCO's efforts in the field of education, sciences and culture, which are also of particular interest to the Holy See, as it participates actively in the work of the organization." The communique said emphasis was given to the need to ensure integral human development, and to the importance of guaranteeing quality education for everyone. It said that the discussion also addressed certain aspects of protecting world cultural heritage, and of defending the environment, as well as to the importance of dialogue between cultures.
Soon after meeting the Pope, Bokova met Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, and Archbishop Dominique Mamberti,Vatican’s Secretary for relations with states.