India Advocates for Culture as a Standalone Goal at G7 Ministers’ Meeting in Naples.
Naples, Italy :
India, represented by Arunish Chawla, Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, participated in the Special Session of the G7 Ministers’ meeting on Culture in Naples, Italy. This gathering brought together cultural leaders from the G7 nations, the African Union, and various international organizations, including UNESCO and ICCROM.
In his address, Chawla emphasized the need to recognize culture as a dynamic catalyst for growth rather than a static relic. He asserted that acknowledging culture as a “standalone goal” in the post-2030 Sustainable Development Agenda represents a significant shift in development conceptualization. “As we approach the United Nations Summit of the Future, we must advocate for the inclusion of culture as an autonomous goal,” he stated.
The Secretary highlighted India’s robust partnership with the African Union, which has led to unprecedented economic, cultural, and strategic ties. He noted that the African Union’s recent admission as a permanent member of the G20 marks a milestone in this collaboration. India’s ongoing support for African nations includes backing nomination dossiers during the World Heritage Committee meetings and pledging USD 1 million for capacity-building initiatives in developing regions.
The conference culminated in the signing of the Naples Statement, which aims to leverage culture as a driver of sustainable development in Africa and globally. This initiative seeks to enhance knowledge sharing with African governments and cultural institutions while promoting and safeguarding cultural heritage.
On the sidelines, Chawla held bilateral discussions with Italy’s Minister of Culture and other delegations, addressing key issues related to cultural cooperation. Indian Ambassador to Italy, Ms. Vani Rao, participated in these meetings, furthering India’s commitment to global cultural collaboration.
