The Leaders' Forum, attended by several heads of states and governments, is themed "SDGs and UNESCO's Role in the Multilateral System"

Speaking at the event, Morocco's permanent delegate to the UNESCO, ambassador Zohour Alaoui, who was elected on Monday as chair of the 39th General Conference, lauded the unwavering commitment of HRH Princess Lalla Meryem to defending children's and women's rights.

The presence of Her Royal Highness in this forum testifies to the importance which Morocco gives to the UNESCO mandate, Alaoui underlined.

The forum discussed the UNESCO's contribution to achieve sustainable development goals, and promote human values and social inclusion.

Speaking on this occasion, Malian president Ibahim Boubacar Keita highlighted the major role of UNESCO in preserving and restoring his country's cultural and religious heritage.

Earlier, HRH Princess Lalla Meryem took part in an official luncheon offered by UNESCO director general Irina Bokova on the occasion of the 39th session of UNESCO General Conference which is held on Oct. 30-Nov. 14.

HRH Princess Lalla Meryem also signed the UNESCO visitors' book.

Upon her arrival at the organization's headquarters, Her Royal Highness was received by Zohour Alaoui, Irina Bokova and top officials from the body.

Her Royal Highness was also greeted mainly by culture and communication minister Mohamed Laaraj, minister delegate for administration and civil service reform, secretary general of UNESCO national committee Mohamed Ben Abdelkader and HM the King's ambassador to France Chakib Benmoussa.

The General Conference will determine the Organization’s budget and the direction of its programmes and activities for the next two years.