CIS Humanitarian Cooperation Council and CIS Interstate Fund for Humanitarian Cooperation (IFHC) have today held a joint discussion in Astana. Participants focused on IFHC-UNESCO Memorandum of Understanding signed at the end of 2008. Such cooperation contributes to the realization of a number of joint projects, including the one aimed at technical-professional development in CIS countries.

Last year, the fund launched over 70 projects in the spheres of culture, education, science, information, mass media, sports, tourism and activities with youth.

Parties discussed and adopted decisions over key issues related to the further development and enhancement of humanitarian cooperation on commonwealth territory. Discussion were devoted to 2009-10 Priority Plan in the sphere of humanitarian cooperation among CIS member states, strategic development issues, mutual cooperation (between IFHC and UNESCO), CIS Executive Committee as well as events dedicated to the 65th anniversary of Victory over Fascism. The fund plans to organize over a hundred events and humanitarian functions during the current year.

Discussion over humanitarian cooperation development issues will take place during CIS leaders' sessions scheduled for May 22 in the capital city of Kazakhstan.