Consultations on the initiative of the Alliance of Civilizations were held by a group of countries and organizations with the Permanent Observer status at the United Nations. Resulting from these consultations, a Group of Friends (composed of mostly states, and also several international organizations) was established to support the Alliance of Civilizations initiative in fostering global cooperation on cross-cultural issues and to promote initiatives aimed at encouraging dialogue and building bridges among societies and communities.

Upon consultations with the Spanish Government, HE Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Prime Minister of Turkey, joined HE José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero as the co-sponsor of the Alliance of Civilizations initiative.

Secretary-General Kofi Annan announced the launch of the “Alliance of Civilizations” initiative in a statement at the United Nations Headquarters, New York.

Secretary-General Kofi Annan announced the establishment of a High-level Group to guide the initiative.

Remarks: Secretary-General Annan       HE Erdogan       Prof. Aydin       Prof. Mayor

First Ministerial Meeting of the Alliance of Civilizations Group of Friends at United Nations Headquarters, New York.

Fourth Ministerial Meeting of the Alliance of Civilizations Group of Friends at United Nations Headquarters, New York.

Summary notes of meeting

26 September 2009

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Sixth Ministerial Meeting of the Alliance of Civilizations Group of Friends at United Nations Headquarters, New York.