On August 11, 2011, Chinese President Hu Jintao met with UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova, who is in Shenzhen, Guangdong for a visit and to attend the opening ceremony of the 26th Summer Universiade.

During the meeting, Hu pointed out that UNESCO is the world's largest inter-governmental organization in the areas of education, science and culture. It has a large number of members and wide influence, Hu said. He praised UNESCO for the important role that it has played in promoting universal and better education, advance of science and technology and cultural innovation. Hu said China places great importance on its cooperation with UNESCO and has actively supported and participated in UNESCO-led activities such as universal education and protection of cultural and natural heritages.

Bokova said as an important member of UNESCO, China has actively participated in the organization's work to promote universal education, pointing to China's sound cooperation with UNESCO in supporting the development of developing countries. She expressed the organization's appreciation for this and hope to enhance cooperation with China.

Liu Yandong, member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and State Councilor, and other officials attended the meeting.