This follows a pledge announced in November by the Government of Indonesia to contribute USD 10 million to support UNESCO’s activities in light of the financial difficulties experienced by the Organization.  The remaining USD 4 million will be channeled through a Funds-in-Trust agreement.

“This contribution marks the beginning of a new form of cooperation with Indonesia based on shared mutual priorities,” said the Director-General. “We share the same vision of the world and of human development, a holistic vision that takes into account the importance of education and the role of culture and cultural diversity.”

Minister Nuh stressed his Government’s wish to strengthen cooperation with UNESCO. He drew attention to the importance of working jointly on President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono’s initiative to host the first World Culture Forum in 2013 in Bali. In his speech to the 189^th Session of the Executive Board, he affirmed that “investing in education is the best investment any country can make,” citing Indonesia’s efforts to improve education quality, reach the marginalized and increase secondary school enrolment.

The Director-General launched an Emergency Multi-Donor Fund at the close of the General Conference on 10 November 2011 to help fill a shortfall resulting from dues withheld by the United States following the admission of Palestine to UNESCO. The Fund supports UNESCO priority programs and reform initiatives.