21 April 2016 - The Vice-President and High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini took part on 20 April in the 2016 European Culture Forum in Brussels together with European artists, cultural operators and policy makers.
It was the opportunity to introduce the future European Strategy on Culture in EU External Relations, a joint initiative between the European External Action Service and the Direction General for Education and Culture (DG EAC), which will be presented next month to the European Parliament and the Council.
In her keynote speech, the High Representative went through the main chapters of the new Cultural Diplomacy Strategy, and mentioned her recent meeting with the UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova and the key partnership engaged with UNESCO in the protection of cultural heritage. “We are working with UNESCO to set up a rapid reaction mechanism for the protection of cultural heritage” recalling the recent creation of the Italian Task Force of cultural heritage experts in the framework of UNESCO’s global coalition Unite for Heritage. She highlighted the importance of the joint working efforts with UNESCO, deployed all over the world with an important contribution, and illustrated with several common actions like in Timbuktu (Mali). In addition, she announced the proposal to the Council and the European Parliament of a new legislation to disrupt the smuggling of cultural goods/antiquities as a financing source for terrorist activities.
Francesca Mogherini stressed the link between culture, economic development and security emphasizing that “culture has to be at the core of our foreign policy, when Europe engages with the world. Culture can help us fight and prevent radicalisation, but it can also foster economic growth. It can strengthen diplomatic relations and mutual understanding. It can help us stand together to common threats and build partnerships and alliances among institutions and among people”.
“Put culture at the very heart of Europe’s external action. Refuse any clash of civilisations, and work for an alliance of civilisations. Cultural diplomacy is a cornerstone in our relationship with today’s world. It is vital for Europe, to promote our interests and advance our values”, the High Representative concluded.
Video of the HRVP speech:
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