In view of European Union’s growing role in southern hemisphere, including its obligations stemming from the Lomé Convention on African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries, SSCC is delighted to welcome Mr. Ignacio Sanchez Amor, the Member fo European Parliament. His previous position in the Government of Spain was the Secretary of State for Territorial Policy Mr. Sanchez Amor’s special interests include relations between EU and Turkey, the former territories of USSR, Lusophone countries, especially in Africa and, of course, Latin America.

SSCC is currently working with Mr. Sanchez Amor, as well as with Ambassador Karl-Erik Norman, the Secretary General of European Cultural Parliament, also a member of SSCC Policy Advisory Board, on relevant components of the Manila Platform for Action and subsequent programmes on Culture as a Tool for Peace. Ambassador Claudia Turbay and Mr. Ladi Nylander, as well as Mr. Damien Pwono, are also participating in the planning process. Details of the programme will be announced shortly. SSCC was pleased to note that Mr. Sanchez Amor will send a message to the Manila SDG Festival and Forum.