WASHINGTON, Oct 12 — The United States is withdrawing from Unesco, the United Nation’s cultural and educational agency, effective Dec. 31, the US State Department said in a statement today.

"This decision was not taken lightly, and reflects US concerns with mounting arrears at Unesco, the need for fundamental reform in the organisation, and continuing anti-Israel bias at Unesco,” the department said, adding that the United States would seek to "remain engaged ...as a non-member observer state in order to contribute US views, perspectives and expertise.” — Reuters