Read-out of the Meetings of the High Representative for UNAOC in Malta
17 June 2021 – Valletta, Malta
During his official visit to Malta (15-17 June), the High-Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Mr. Miguel Moratinos, was received by the President of Malta, H.E. Dr. George Vella, and the Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, the Hon. Mr. Evarist Bartolo.
Over a working lunch hosted by President Vella, they exchanged views on means of strengthening intercultural and interfaith dialogue to build cohesive, inclusive, and peaceful societies. President Vella expressed his support for the mission and objectives of UNAOC, especially in the area of interfaith dialogue.
With the Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, the High-Representative had a tête-à-tête meeting followed by an extended meeting between the delegations from both sides in which they explored areas of joint project activities. Mr. Moratinos gave an overview of UNAOC’s new initiatives and ongoing projects, stressing the urgency of addressing the rise in hatred, discrimination, and racism that is poisoning our societies. He commended Malta for its role in promoting peaceful coexistence and peaceful settlement of conflicts, as well as its continued commitment to promoting intercultural and interfaith dialogue through pedagogical tools.
On his part, the Hon. Minister Bartolo re-iterated his government’s continued support for UNAOC. Minister Bartolo also stressed his support for the revitalization of UNAOC’s Mediterranean Regional Strategy for Interreligious and Intercultural dialogue, which Malta had hosted in Valletta in November 2010.
Both sides expressed their enthusiasm to work closely together in developing initiatives such as inclusive religious education.
To that end, the High Representative met with faculty members at the University of Malta and the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies (MEDAC) to elaborate on the initiative.
Ms. Nihal Saad, UNAOC Chief of Cabinet and Spokesperson for the High Representative
saadn@un.org | www.unaoc.org | Twitter: @UNAOC