Consensus among the G-20 member countries, guest countries and international organizations on four main themes of Culture Working Group

The first meeting of the Culture Working Group under India's G20 chairmanship ended at Maharaja Chhatrasal Convention Centre in Khajuraho. India had put forward four main themes for this meeting. These include Protection and Restitution of Cultural Property; Harnessing Living Heritage of Sustainable Future; Promotion of Cultural and Creative Industries and Creative Economy, and Leveraging of Digital Technology for Protection and Promotion of Culture.

In the two-day brainstorming, a consensus has emerged among the G-20 member countries, guest countries and international organizations that took part in the meeting that these topics should be taken forward strongly. It was agreed in the meeting that experts should now work on micro-level detailing through webinars so that by August a new initiative can be announced and based on that a new path can be carved out.

The opening session of the meet had focused on discussions regarding the four priorities of the Indian Presidency which promote Culture as an enabler for global sustainability & growth with the visiting delegates. Indonesia and Brazil, members of the TROIKA delivered their opening remarks with Indonesia reiterating that Culture and creativity are at the forefront of sustainability. Following the remarks from Indonesia, Brazil commented on its commitment to build upon these priorities taking it forward in the country's upcoming presidency. Mr. Ernesto Ottone R , Assistant Director General of UNESCO for Culture talked about how the outcome of G20 CWG under the Indian presidency will be a vital contribution to firmly anchor Culture in the post 2030 agenda. This was followed by National statements and Presentations were made on the working process along with presentations by knowledge partner UNESCO.

The delegates also experienced a guided tour of the Western Group of Temples in Khajuraho and witnessed performances at the Khajuraho Dance Festival. G20 delegates also visited Adivart Tribal and Folk Art Museum apart from engaging in various traditional activities during their visit.

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February 24, 2023

Khajuraho