Athens, Greece

17 June 2024

Secretary-General's video message to the conference: "Peace and Sustainable Development" on the six-year anniversary of the signing of the Prespa Agreement on the Name Issue

Download the video: https://s3.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+7+June+24/3216106_MSG+SG+PEACE+AND+SUSTAINABLE+DEVELOPMENT+07+JUN+24.mp4
 
Excellencies, Dear Friends,

Six years ago, the people of Greece and North Macedonia – led by then-Prime Ministers Alexis Tsipras and Zoran Zaev – came together to help remove a long-standing obstacle to a future of peace and sustainable development.

The Prespa Agreement is a testament to the power of diplomacy, dialogue and compromise.

I wish to acknowledge the dedicated facilitation of my Personal Envoy at the time, Matthew Nimetz.

The agreement not only settled the name dispute but opened the potential for new opportunities for growth, cultural exchange and regional partnerships.

As we mark this milestone, we must find ways to recommit to the principles that drove this vital achievement. 

By fostering an environment of trust and mutual understanding.

By promoting cross-border cooperation for sustainable investments, social inclusion and environmental protection.

And by standing united in the pursuit of a brighter future – for the region and the world.

Thank you.