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The Minister of Culture of the Dominican Republic, Roberto Ángel Salcedo, inaugurated the Latin America and Caribbean Week 2026 at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, highlighting the richness of the country’s cultural heritage and strengthening its international presence within one of the region’s most important cultural forums.
The Minister of Culture of the Dominican Republic, Roberto Ángel Salcedo, inaugurated the Latin America and Caribbean Week 2026 at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, highlighting the richness of the country’s cultural heritage and strengthening its international presence within one of the region’s most important cultural forums.
This event, taking place from June 2 to 5 under the coordination of the Latin America and Caribbean Group (GRULAC), brings together representatives from across the region to promote intercultural dialogue, cultural cooperation, and sustainable development through art, gastronomy, cinema, academic debates, and the creative industries.
During the opening ceremony, Mr. Salcedo highlighted the common history and diversity of Latin America and the Caribbean, describing the region as a vibrant mix of cultures, traditions, and identities. He also emphasized the internationally recognized cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic, highlighting traditions inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List such as the Brotherhood of the Holy Spirit of the Congos of Villa Mella, the Guloyas of San Pedro de Macorís, merengue, bachata, and the traditional know-how related to the preparation and consumption of cassava bread (casabe).The minister emphasized the importance of culture as a driver of peace, social cohesion, and sustainable development, while acknowledging UNESCO’s role in protecting the world’s cultural heritage. He also presented the Dominican Republic’s candidacy for a seat on the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for the period 2027-2031, the body responsible for evaluating World Heritage nominations and overseeing the conservation of internationally renowned cultural and natural sites.
As part of the opening activities, the Dominican Republic inaugurated an exhibition of traditional carnival masks representing different regions of the country. This exhibition highlights the indigenous, African, and European influences that have shaped Dominican identity and continue to define its cultural richness.The event will conclude on June 5 with Caribbean Day, celebrating the music, dance, gastronomy, and creative industries of the region. The participation of the Dominican Republic reinforces its position as a leading cultural destination in the Caribbean and demonstrates its growing role in international efforts to preserve and promote cultural heritage.
