Hence the need for genuine dialogue, and Hoggart remained hopeful that, despite its occasional failings, UNESCO would play a leading role as a conduit for intergovernmental diplomacy and, ultimately, international consensus on issues of global relevance.

UNESCO: The Uses of Richard Hoggart

Aso also pledged to announce details in the summer of how Japan planned to reach its target of cutting carbon emissions by up to 80 percent by 2050 and said the country could play a leading role in the development of greener technologies.

CNN: Japan unveils $17B Asian aid package

As a leading exporter of fossil fuels, Russia may well play a stabilizing role in global energy markets, despite its purported truculence in recent years.

FORBES: For U.S. Businesses, Russia Means Immense Opportunity -- and Immense Exposure