On Feb 27, Vienna hosted the opening of the 5th UN Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum, aiming to unite the international community against extremism through intercultural and interreligious dialogue. The forum, opened by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, brought together delegations from 136 countries and international organizations.

In his speech Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian noted tolerance and respect for national, cultural and religious heritage as preconditions for harmonious and peaceful co-existence. Minister Nalbandian said Armenia joins the UN Alliance of Civilizations with goodwill and determination to promote the positive message of diversity and harmony of civilizations, RA MFA reported.