President Hosni Mubarak agreed to nominate Culture Minister Farouq Hosni for the post of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) director-general.

Various countries have started nominating candidates for the post which will be vacant in 2009.

Farouq Hosni said that should he head this prestigious organization in 2009, it will be the first time in history an Arab national holds such a position.

Hosni said he deeply appreciates the President's token and trust to assume such a prestigious post.

"The nomination of an Arab figure to lead UNESCO is also a source of pride for all Arabs," he said.

"It is an important opportunity to prove that Arabs can assume such international posts," he added.

The Minister, however, said he is committed to get the job done before leaving office, referring to a number of giant projects launched during his tenure.