Welcome
Statement by Minister of State Katja Keul prior to her visit to Paris
Minister of State Katja Keul issued the following statement today (7 November 2023) prior to her visit to Paris:
France is our most important partner in Europe. My talks with Minister of State Chrysoula Zacharopoulou will focus on the situation in West Africa in particular and on our approach to our colonial past.
At times like these, UNESCO’s globally recognised work, particularly in the fields of education as well as preserving and protecting humankind’s cultural and natural heritage, is more important than ever. Important decisions will be made at the 42nd session of the UNESCO General Conference on the future course of this UN specialised agency’s work. Germany works actively within UNESCO and is the fourth-largest contributor to the Organisation.
Background:
Minister of State at the Federal Foreign Office Katja Keul is visiting Paris from 7 to 8 November.
She will meet her counterpart for Africa, Minister of State Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, and also hold talks with government officials and academics. The Minister of State will also lead the German delegation at the 42nd session of the UNESCO General Conference, which starts on 7 November. The UNESCO General Conference is the Organisation’s most important decision-making forum. Germany is the fourth-largest contributor to UNESCO.