On thursday, president Andrej Kiska participated on high-level thematic debate in New York on achieving the sustainable development goals.

"I would like to thank to President Lykketoft for organising this important event.

We face many uncertainties, conflicts and sufferings in this world. It was not long ago when world leaders met here in New York and reached an unprecedented consensus to set global development priorities for next 15 years. Slovakia fully supports the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development. The commitment to end poverty, building peaceful, inclusive, and resilient societies is our legacy for the next generations.

It is important that this is not a plan of one part of the world for the other one. This is a vision for all of us whether small or big, whether rich or poor. Because we understand that peace and security, stability, prosperity and human dignity in this global and interconnected world can´t be a privilege. It must be achievable for all.

We all share 17 sustainable development goals. However, situation and conditions in our respective countries differ. We have to focus on our weak points and use our strong ones for the benefit of others.

My country, Slovakia, has lived through a huge transformation in last 25 years. From a totalitarian regime to a democratic and prosperous member of the international community, a member of the European Union over which we will preside in less than three months. From a recipient of development aid we became a donor.

Still, we have many development challenges to cope with. I will mention two of them. Firstly, inclusive and quality education. We strive for education which will not only provide our young generation with skills and knowledge good enough for 21st century jobs but which will prepare a new generation for living in a quickly changing world.

Secondly, building effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. Failing in solving problems brings a rising mistrust of citizens towards traditional political leaders and institutions as such. Losing trust leads to extremes which are undermining stability of our societies. It is clear that our global development success is comprised of many successes that we have to achieve on our domestic fronts.

In terms of our external engagement, Slovakia is increasing its development and humanitarian aid to countries in need. However, we should do much more than we are doing today. Although, we are proud of our civil society in this respect, we have to communicate more with our public. About global problems. About solidarity. About our shared responsibility in solving problems outside of our borders. Our experience with the current refugee crisis in Europe is a clear example.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Raising domestic awareness about our global responsibility will be an important part of my participation at the World Humanitarian Summit in Istanbul in May this year. I use the opportunity to welcome this initiative and leadership of the Secretary General in this and other efforts to make our world a better place."