Paris, Oct 14 (IANS): Chinese painter, sculptor and designer Han Meilin was designated as Unesco Artist for Peace here.

Han was chosen "in recognition of his commitment to promoting art and artistic education, his support to providing quality education to young people," Xinhua quoted Unesco director-general Irina Bokova as saying on Tuesday.

Bokova said, "Unesco wants to cooperate with Han Meilin in the future, especially in supporting and helping promising talented artists."

Han's designation, which coincided with Unesco's 70th anniversary, would "contribute greatly to sustainable development and world peace", Hao Ping, president of the 37th session of the organisation's general conference, said.

Han in his acceptance speech said: "Being designated as Unesco Artist for Peace is not only an honour, but also a mission and a responsibility." He noted that "he would support Unesco's activities notably in the fields of culture and education".