"I am deeply honored and moved by this award, which reinforces my faith in dialogue and cultural diversity, one of the great strengths of Africa, and which represents a huge potential for peace and development, " said the Director-General.

UNESCO: The Director-General meets H.E. Blaise Compaor��, President of the Republic of Burkina Faso | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

"I'm somewhat ignorant as to whether or not it is a hard sell at the box office because I am at the receiving end of people who are very moved, full of praise and deeply touched, " said Sir Ben.

BBC: Sir Ben was knighted in 2002