Union Minister of Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat represented India at the World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development (MONDIACULT 2025), held on September 29, 2025, in Barcelona, Spain. This prestigious UNESCO-organized event gathered ministers and cultural leaders worldwide to chart the future of global cultural policy and cooperation.
Chairmanship of Asia-Pacific Group
During the Ministerial Plenary Session, Shri Shekhawat had the distinction of chairing the Asia-Pacific Group. This role underscored India’s growing leadership in fostering cultural cooperation and diplomacy within the Asia-Pacific region, reflecting its increasing stature in global cultural dialogues.
Key Engagements
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Opening Ceremony: Marked by vibrant cultural performances and keynote addresses by UNESCO’s Director-General Audrey Azoulay and the Government of Spain’s President, emphasizing culture’s central role in peace and sustainable development.
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Ministerial Plenary: Focused on culture as a global public good and catalyst for sustainable development, with India highlighting the importance of cultural rights and a creative economy for inclusive growth.
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Thematic Sessions: Minister Shekhawat delivered an intervention accentuating India’s commitment to advancing cultural rights and the creative economy across diverse sectors.
Bilateral Meetings
On the sidelines, the Minister held productive bilateral discussions with counterparts from Spain, Iran, Norway, Colombia, and Greece. These conversations focused on expanding cooperation in heritage conservation, museums, creative industries, and performing arts, strengthening cultural ties and collaborations.
India’s Commitment to Global Cultural Dialogue
India’s active participation and leadership at MONDIACULT 2025 reaffirms its steadfast dedication to global cultural exchange and to elevating culture as a foundation for sustainable, inclusive development aligned with international goals.
Conclusion
Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat’s contributions at MONDIACULT 2025 solidify India’s role as a champion of culture as a vital global public good and a key driver of peace, democracy, and sustainable development, fostering stronger cultural cooperation in the Asia-Pacific and beyond.
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Source: PIB
