I am pleased to convey my greetings to all those gathered for the Egypt Economic Development Conference. 

This Conference takes place at a vital time in global development as Member States
are hard at work crafting a post-2015 agenda and sustainable development goals that are
people-centered and planet sensitive. 

Egypt has a critical role to play.  The importance of this country to the region and the global community beyond it cannot be overstated.  In Egypt – as it is around the world – inclusive economic growth, a free press, a thriving civil society, a credible and trusted system of justice, and an inclusive, transparent and accountable government that promotes and respects all human rights are all essential to building dynamic and robust 21st century economies. 

Development also requires security and stability, which are sustainable when security is the product of public consent, stability is the outcome of legitimacy, and peace the result of justice, democracy and good governance. 

Countries cannot attain lasting development without working to address discrimination and inequality and ensuring that prosperity is broadly shared.  We have seen too clearly the cost of economic and social disenfranchisement, and we must work together to help build a better, fairer, more inclusive future for all.

Thank you for coming together to advance sustainable development and social justice.  Best wishes for a successful conference.