Expectations high for president's speech on development, peace

President Xi Jinping's visit to the UNESCO headquarters will be historic and an exceptional opportunity for him to share his vision on China's soft power and human development, the head of the Paris-based UN organization said on Wednesday.

Expectations for Xi's keynote speech at UNESCO on March 27 are high as it represents the first time a Chinese president will address the international organization.

"We are very much looking forward to listening to his vision about China's agenda and strategies for development and how they will be integrated into the global thinking of development and peace in the world," said Irina Bokova, director-general of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

The visit comes at the "right time" as China's new leadership is pressing a strong agenda that focuses not only on economic growth but on social issues such as inclusiveness, quality education, greater access to cultural goods and encouraging creativity among young people, Bokova said.

"I think it is commendable because it is also UNESCO's vision," she said. She added that she will be interested to see how the concept of the Chinese Dream, the slogan of the country's new leadership, will change the paradigm of the country's development.

Meanwhile, Chinese first lady Peng Liyuan will be designated as a special UNESCO envoy for girls' education during Xi's visit, Bokova said.

"I know that she cares a lot about gender equality, so it will be a strong message to the world that it is important to invest in girls' education."

Bokova, a former Bulgarian diplomat, has been an active promoter of gender equality under her UNESCO mandate since she was elected the organization's director-general in 2009. She was the first woman elected to the top post.

She noted that China's commitment and support is essential for the success of UNESCO's mission in the world, and she is willing to strengthen cooperation with China in regions such as Africa and Asia.

"We need strong political messages from China for UNESCO to thrive in promoting education, culture and sciences in other parts of the world," she said.

Bokova also emphasized that societies around the world need support to solve problems such as youth unemployment, gender inequality and environmental degradation, and to secure greater access to science and knowledge for their people.

UNESCO's agenda is to provide that support, she said, acknowledging the vital importance of contributions from leading nations like China.

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