On May 18, 2010, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met with Director-General of the UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Irina Bokova in Ziguangge, Zhongnanhai.

Wen said that education, science and culture are a sign of progress of human civilization as well as an important part of current international exchanges and cooperation, and they play an irreplaceable role in addressing various global challenges and promoting world peace and development. China attaches great importance to education for all, scientific and technological progress and conservation of cultural diversity from a strategic perspective, and is engaged in people's all-round development, all-round social progress and harmonious and sustainable development of the world, said Wen. He said China is willing to enhance cooperation with the UNESCO to jointly advance the lofty career concerning mankind's future.

Bokova thanked Wen for meeting with her and described China as an indispensable partner of the UNESCO, saying the UN organization needs China's support and participation. Bokova hoped China could play a bigger role in implementing UNESCO’s priority strategy, promoting South-South cooperation, conserving cultural diversity and dealing with the global challenges.

Minister of Education Yuan Guiren and other officials attended the meeting.