In accordance with a resolution adopted by the General Conference at its 28th session, in 1997, UNESCO serves as the main partner of the Barcelona Forum. Since the inception of the project, UNESCO has assisted the organizers in conceptualizing the programme of the Forum and planning its activities. Open until 29 September 2004, it will address three core themes falling within UNESCO's mandate, namely, "Cultural diversity and the dialogue of cultures", "Sustainable development" and "Conditions for Peace". UNESCO is also involved in the organization of a number of activities, including a conference on "New forms of ignorance, new forms of literacy" (6-8 September 2004), a youth forum on "Language as Violence, Violence as Language" and a UNESCO/Felissimo exhibition entitled "Love, Why?".

Mr Matsuura said that "UNESCO, one of whose core missions is to promote a fruitful diversity of cultures, cannot but see a symbol in this magnificent idea taking shape before us today of a universal forum of cultures. It is the symbol in this globalizing world of a new value accorded to diversity that not only gives meaning to our differences, but also, and even more importantly, demonstrates our common belonging to humanity".

The opening ceremony of the Forum was preceded by the Director-General's bilateral talk with Mr Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, President of the Spanish Government. During the meeting, the need to operationalize the framework agreement signed in 2002 was highlighted, in particular in regard to the EFA process, the promotion of cultural diversity and the Organization's action in the Middle East. Mr Zapatero underscored the importance of UNESCO's role in the present international context and reiterated his commitment to the ideals and action of the UN system, particularly as concerns the Millennium Development Goals.

Before returning to Paris on 9 May, the Director-General visited the Forum premises and the exhibitions "Warriors of Xi'an", "Cities - Corners" and "Voices".

Related theme: Barcelona 2004