Cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue are an integral part of the values of the European Union and play an important role in promotion of human rights, tolerance, and non-discrimination across the world. The EU is focusing on its increasingly positive role in international relations.

The Conclusions also take stock of synergies and complementarity between EU and its Member States in international cultural relations, as mentioned in the joint Communication, such as the launch of the European Houses of Culture pilot project and its implementation by EUNIC, the umbrella organisation of EU national cultural institutes.

– mutual learning, cross-cultural understanding and trust between the EU and its partners in external relations, while empowering local cultural sectors as engines for inclusive and sustainable development, social and cultural progress, and fostering cultural diversity, innovation and economic resilience;

The relevant Framework for action invites the Member States and EU institutions to, among others, strengthen coordination on the best way to promote international cultural relations, promote cooperation with third countries and international organisations, implement common projects and actions in third countries.