Good morning Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am grateful to the European Union and Government of Afghanistan for organizing this very important meeting to support the people and the Government of Afghanistan. The Afghanistan Government under the leadership of President Ghani and [Chief Executive] Abdullah Abdullah have been making impressive reforms and development plans to change the lives of people. They have been suffering too much, too long from political, social, economic difficulties and terrorism and extremism. It is important that today the international community sends a strong message of support for the people and the Government of Afghanistan.

The United Nations stands ready to work together with the regional powers, and the major powers of the international community, so that the Afghanistan people can live peacefully and in a prosperous world. It is important that we send a strong message. I am sure that such an effort will be recognized today.

I thank you very much.