Speech by Prime Minister of Sweden, President of the Council of the European Union, Mr. Göran Persson at the discussion sessions during the The Third UN Conference on the Least Developed Countries, May 14 2001

Let me start with the words of a man from Georgia. When asked to describe the reality of poverty, he says:
"Poverty is lack of freedom, enslaved by crushing daily burden, by depression and fear of what the future will bring."
(Voices of the poor, The World Bank)

These words describe a reality shared by millions of people. Lack of power. Lack of freedom. Fear of the future.

With what right do we leave our fellow man in this state?
Of course, with no right.

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Ladies and Gentlemen!

Many great words have been uttered here today. Telling of new and broadened insights of how to fight poverty.

This shows a commitment that must result in equivalent hard work. We must also recognize that this means sacrificing existing privileges. The necessary changes will not happen by themselves.

We need peace! There is too much readiness to take up arms and sacrifice the young. Conflict prevention is imperative. We need to address the root-causes of conflicts, to balance political, economic, social and cultural opportunities for everyone. We need to establish effective mechanisms for the peaceful conciliation of group interests and to protect the rights of minorities.

Power to the people! Democracy is based on political freedom. Good governance – transparent and accountable to the people - is the key. Too often failed when put to the test.

Female liberation! All to often being a woman means having less access to paid work and income, to good health, education and participation in decision-making. Women hold powerful resources. Unlocking them is the most profitable investment Releasing them is necessary. We need every man – and every woman – to fight poverty.

Independence! Economic growth and employment are keys to self-determination. Enhance technical assistance and capacity building. Promote open international trade. Remove all barriers for exports. I am proud to note in that context the decision by the European Union earlier this year to grant far reaching customs and quota freedom to exports from the Least developed countries.

Distribute our wealth! It is crucial to assist LDC's in debt management. We must also meet the goal for development assistance. Today it is only five countries in the world that give 0.7 per cent of their national income. Let us match our words with deeds.

Stand up for life and health! Adding to malaria and tuberculosis HIV/AIDS is now killing whole generations, leaving more than 13 million children orphaned. The need is for affordable medicine. Open talk is necessary and no excuses acceptable.

Confront climate change! Combat desertification and promote preservation of biological diversity. Improve the use of natural resources, and minimise the damages of natural disasters. It is a matter of giving the world’s poor scope for development as well as leaving coming generations a world fit to live in.

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Ladies and Gentlemen!

Fighting poverty is a rational modern way to stimulate development.
It is worth every effort, every political fight. It is worth every euro.

It is an investment in a better future - for all of us.

Or, expressed shortly:
Either we develop together – or not at all.

Thank you.