Welcome Statement on the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
Deputy Permanent Representative of the Mission of Sierra Leone to the United Nations.
Mr. Chairman, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen.
The Permanent Mission of Sierra Leone in collaboration with “Give Them a Hand Foundation and the International Association of Applied Psychology (IAAP), the New York School of Fashion and Art and the United African Congress, thanks UNESCO and all attendees for honoring our invitation. We welcome you all as you join us today to commemorate the UN World Day for Cultural Diversity which is the UN sanctioned Observance Day for the promotion of diversity and intercultural dialogue, launched in 2022.
The celebration of cultural diversity is important in today’s world, prone to polarization and intolerance. The recognition of World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is meaningful for Sierra Leone, where diversity and tolerance are imbedded in our way of life, and is particularly important given our rising youth population who play a key role in fostering a thriving tech, creative and artistic sector, essential for sustainable development.
This afternoon we will hear from our outstanding panelists on the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence in arts and fashion. The rise of artificial intelligence in the world of creativity has revolutionized various sectors, with fashion and design being no exception. This confluence of AI and human creativity has not only expanded the horizons of artistic possibilities but also sparked intense debate regarding its implications, particularly on the challenges and opportunities of integrating AI into art and fashion.
It is hoped that following today’s discussion, we would have a greater appreciation and cultural awareness on how AI is revolutionizing creative methodologies in our deeply interconnected global communities.
We look forward to an enlightening and inspiring dialogue.
I thank you.
