Honourable Speaker Sergey Naryshkin of the Russian Federation, and Honourable Speaker Chung Ui-Hwa, of the Republic of Korea, Co-Chairpersons of this meeting; Honourable Speakers of Eurasian National Parliaments; Distinguished delegates; Ladies and Gentlemen,

I extend my warm greetings to this important meeting.

I am proud of the long history of partnership between the United Nations and parliaments across the world.

Your group represents a large and varied region, spanning two continents.

You face challenges that could put at risk our shared goals of prosperity, stability and dignity for all.

These dangers include competing territorial or maritime claims, political and communal tensions, and security threats such as transnational organized crime and terrorism.

But in addition to challenges, Eurasia is also home to rising powers and positive examples of economic growth.

I look forward to seeing regional economic integration, including free movement of goods, services, investment, skilled labour and a freer flow of capital.

I support Eurasia’s efforts to expand cooperation, including through the Republic of Korea’s Eurasia Initiative and the Northeast Asia Peace and Cooperation Initiative.

As parliamentarians, you have an important role in fostering reconciliation, promoting dialogue, resolving longstanding conflicts and preventing new ones.

As representatives of the people, you have a duty to bring their voices to the table.

The United Nations looks forward to working with you to advance peace, development and human rights for all.

Thank you.