The all-island 'UNESCO Together' network was formally launched at the Duncairn Centre in Belfast.

Bringing together 14 UNESCO designated sites and six tentative sites, the initiative will connect partners through culture, heritage, learning, sustainability and community collaboration, creating a platform for long-term cooperation and exchange across the island.

Backed by the UK National Commission to UNESCO and the National Commission of Ireland to UNESCO, the network links UNESCO Global Geoparks, World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves and Creative Cities spanning Northern Ireland and Ireland.

The launch offered representatives a first opportunity to meet, share ideas and scope joint projects. More than 650 people are expected to take part in cross-border activities including workshops, community exchanges, creative residencies, environmental action initiatives and cultural storytelling programmes.

An all-island strategic roadmap will be developed to guide sustained collaboration between UNESCO sites. This will include exploring a UNESCO Tourism Trail to showcase Heritage Sites and Global Geoparks as catalysts for sustainable tourism, education, cultural identity and community development. Geologist for Burren & Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, Clare County Council, Dr. Eamon Doyle, said, "We are delighted to be part of the UNESCO Together Network and to join with UNESCO-designated sites across the island in building new connections through heritage, culture, education and sustainability. As a UNESCO Global Geopark, the Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark is committed to working with communities to protect and celebrate our unique natural and cultural heritage. This initiative provides an exciting opportunity to share knowledge, learn from one another and develop meaningful cross-border partnerships that will benefit local communities, visitors and future generations alike."

Attending the launch in Belfast, Ambassador David Brück, Permanent Representative of Ireland to the OECD and UNESCO added, "I warmly welcome the UNESCO Together initiative. UNESCO is already connecting communities and places right across the island of Ireland, from Skellig Michael to the Giant's Causeway. This exciting project will bring those connections to life, with stronger links between those places and the people who look after them".

The two-year project is led by Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark, in partnership with Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, and is funded through the PEACEPLUS Change Maker Programme.

For more information on the UNESCO Together Network visit: mournegullionstrangfordgeopark.com/projects/unesco-together/