The reception was marked by the presence of HIH Crown Prince Naruhito of Japan and UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova who watched traditional Japanese dances and songs.
Initiated jointly by the UNESCO and Japan's government, the UNESCO World Conference on Education for Sustainable Development marks the end of the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (2005-2014).
The conference is meant to assess the results of the UN Decade of ESD, identify achievements, initiatives, networks and best practices, as well as stakeholders' commitment. It is also aimed at launching the global action program post-2015 agenda.