Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Highlights Culture as a Global Public Good and Driver of Sustainable Development

The Minister of Culture, Government of India, participated in the World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development (MONDIACULT 2025), held in Barcelona, Spain, on 29 September 2025. The event, convened by UNESCO, brought together Ministers and cultural leaders from across the world to shape the future of global cultural policy.

During the Plenary Session, which included the adoption of the Rules of Procedure and Agenda along with the election of key office bearers, the Minister of Culture of India had the distinction of serving as the Chair for the Asia-Pacific Group. This reflected India’s growing leadership in advancing cultural cooperation within the region.

Key Engagements at the Conference

• Opening Ceremony: The Minister attended the ceremony marked by vibrant cultural performances and keynote remarks by the Director-General of UNESCO and the President of the Government of Spain.
• Ministerial Plenary Session: The discussions focused on culture as a global public good and an enabler of sustainable development.
• Thematic Session on Cultural Rights and Economy of Culture: The Minister delivered an intervention underscoring India’s commitment to cultural rights and strengthening the creative economy as a driver of inclusive and equitable growth.

• Bilateral Engagements

  On the sidelines of the conference, the Minister held bilateral meetings with counterparts from Spain, Iran, Norway, Colombia, and Greece. These discussions centered on enhancing cooperation in heritage conservation, creative industries, museums, and the performing arts.

  India’s Commitment

  India’s participation at MONDIACULT 2025 reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to global cultural dialogue and to advancing culture as a cornerstone of sustainable and inclusive development.