Mr.Chair,
With gratitude for the colleagues of Cyprus, Egypt, Italy, Mexico and UAE, I would like to welcome the establishment of the Group of Friends of Culture, as a platform that promises to amplify our collective endeavors in safeguarding culture as a driver of sustainable development, peace and stability.
We strongly believe that placing culture at the heart of development policies is the right way to ensure a human-centred, inclusive and equitable development. Culture can contribute directly to many of the SDGs – safe and sustainable cities, decent work and economic growth, reducing inequalities, protecting the environment, promoting gender equality and peaceful and inclusive societies.
As the Preamble of the 2030 Agenda indicates: “We acknowledge the natural and cultural diversity of the world and recognize that all cultures and civilizations can contribute to, and are crucial enablers of, sustainable development”.
Albania has long recognized the intrinsic value of cultural heritage—not only as a foundation of national identity but also as a cornerstone for global cultural dialogue and cooperation. Our commitment reflects the nation’s understanding that cultural heritage is a living dialogue between the past and the future—an ethos that resonates deeply with the objectives of the Group ofFriendsofCulture.

In recent years, Albania has embarked on a series of strategic initiatives designed to integrate cultural preservation with sustainable development. Government agencies, in partnership with local communities and international organizations, have implemented projects that not only conserve historical sites but also promote cultural tourism, education, and artistic expression. These initiatives are reflective of a broader vision in which culture is seen as an engine for socio-economic growth, social cohesion, and international diplomacy.
Albania’s educational institutions have also played a pivotal role in fostering a culture of research and innovation centered on cultural heritage. Through academic collaborations, public lectures, and cultural festivals, scholars and practitioners have advanced new methodologies for heritage conservation and promoted a more nuanced understanding of the interplay between tradition and modernity. These endeavors are aligned with UNESCO’s mission to build peace and mutual understanding through the appreciation of cultural diversity.
Recognizing the transformative potential of collective cultural diplomacy, Albania is enthusiastic about the prospect of joining the Group of Friends of Culture. This initiative represents a dynamic forum for dialogue among nations committed to the celebration and preservation of cultural expressions. By joining this group, Albania aims to:
1. Enhance Collaborative Networks: Albania seeks to contribute its unique experiences and expertise while learning from the practices of other nations. Through sustained dialogue and shared projects, the nation aspires to forge stronger bilateral and multilateral partnerships that will further global cultural conservation efforts.
2. Promote Inclusive Cultural Dialogue: Emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and diversity, Albania is committed to ensuring that all cultural expressions—whether tangible or intangible—receive due recognition. The nation envisions a platform where marginalized voices and lesser-known traditions can be brought to the forefront, enriching the global narrative of cultural heritage.
3. Innovate for Future Generations: In an era marked by rapid technological and societal changes, Albania is dedicated to integrating modern innovation with traditional heritage conservation. Membership in the Group of Friends of Culture would provide a valuable avenue for exchanging innovative ideas and best practices that can help future-proof cultural heritage against the challenges of globalization and environmental change.
In expressing our sincere interest to join the Group of Friends of Culture, Albania reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the UNESCO ideals of peace, mutual understanding, and sustainable cultural development. We look forward to contributing to and learning from this esteemed group, confident that our collective efforts will yield a richer, more interconnected global cultural heritage for future generations.
Thank you.