27 January 2023
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen
I thank the Government of Turkmenistan for its consistent efforts to promote the culture of peace in the world.
This new International Year has a firm cornerstone: dialogue for peace.
It is built on our shared conviction that real peace cannot be maintained or restored without constructive exchanges of views held in good faith.
History has taught us that such open and sincere interactions can indeed foster understanding between nations.
And they can bring change in the perceptions, priorities and ambitions.
As the English scientist Jane Goodall said, “Change happens by listening and then starting a dialogue with the people who are doing something you don’t believe is right”.
Yes, we should all change our thinking from a logic of power and rivalry, a logic of possible short-term gains to a logic of long-term dividends from peace and cooperation.
Turning to dialogue instead of threats has never been as urgent as today.
Unfortunately, we are now facing the highest number of violent conflicts since 1945.
To transform this state of our world, we must prevent as many conflicts as possible.
In developing a culture of peace, inclusivity is imperative, and the participation of women, the young, and civil society is crucial.
Using dialogue to bridge gaps in international trust and cooperation would be the greatest achievement in diplomacy.
And I look forward to seeing Member States increasingly turn to dialogue so as to promote and advance sustainable peace, solidarity, and harmony.
The International Year we are launching today will give many opportunities to prove our commitment to peace.
And I wish you every success with the words of the man who first tamed lightning, Benjamin Franklin: Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let every new year find you a better person.
