19/03/2007 (Agence Europe) - The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which represents the interest of the main European public service broadcasters, welcomed the entry into force on 18 March of the UNESCO Convention on protecting and promoting the expression of cultural diversity. Adopted on 20 October, the Convention was ratified by 30 countries. It highlights the inherent link between cultural diversity and pluralism in the media, as well as the importance of public services in the production of programmes. In this connection, the Convention is expected to take into account the future negotiations on the General Agreement on Trade and Services (GATS). The EBU is therefore appealing for the ratification process to continue in an effort to influence the outcome of the negotiations. (gc)