Bratislava Boys’ Choir

– As delivered –

Statement by H.E. Mr. Miroslav Lajčák, President of the 72^nd Session of the UN General Assembly, at performance of Bratislava Boys’ Choir

His Excellency Ambassador Mlynar and Mrs. Mlynarova – our gracious hosts

Under Secretary General for Global Communications – Ms. Alison Smale

Excellencies, Colleagues and friends – Good evening

What better way to celebrate this 25^th anniversary than with music from the Bratislava Boys’ Choir.

The Bratislava Boys’ Choir embodies the Slovakian spirit through the arts and culture. And the Choir carries these Slovak ideals all over the world – as young cultural ambassadors. The Choir is exceptional. I have heard them before and I guarantee that you will enjoy the show.

But first let me use this opportunity to make two brief points – about the critical role of young people and multilateralism.

My first point is that young people and children play a critical role.

The Choir has provided music education for boys and young men since 1982, as we heard. This investment in young people through the arts is critical for development. At the same time, it is an avenue for youth engagement and leadership – shaping our current and future generations.

Young people, through music, have also influenced and led big changes. We have seen choirs and music groups used as a tool of reconciliation. Societies previously in conflict have benefitted from music as a language of peace and a connector of people – from Northern Ireland to Rwanda and Colombia. And young people have been central to all of these efforts – including by bringing governments together. Which brings me to my second point.

This celebration is, at its core, about multilateralism. Slovakia has grown a lot over the last 25 years. And this would not have been possible without cooperation with other member states. From partnerships in the European Union, to engagement in these halls and in the Human Rights Council and many others– Slovakia proved its commitment to global engagement.

But it is not just about trade deals, negotiations and economic growth. Slovakia’s membership of the United Nations has also brought our culture to the rest of the world. All member states contribute to the United Nations tapestry and our collective ethos. The value of this diversity simply cannot be measured. And I am happy that this evening we have another opportunity to share a bit of Slovakia through music.

Excellencies, Dear Colleagues

In conclusion, the Slovak Republic has turned 25 years old at the United Nations. But its traditions are much older than that. I am happy to see these traditions being carried on by the younger generation.

Music connects people. It breaks down barriers of age, gender and nationality. It enables peace and intercultural understanding and acts as a common language for humanity.

I am sure that the songs we are going to hear this evening will confirm my words.

Let us enjoy the show.