Samarkand
Uzbekistan

Secretary-General's video message to the Asian Forum on Human Rights


Statements | António Guterres, Secretary-General


I am pleased to greet the Asian Forum on Human Rights, and I commend the Government of Uzbekistan for convening this event.
 
As the world marks the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, I welcome this Forum’s focus on the intrinsic links between human rights and the Sustainable Development Goals.
 
Indeed, the 2030 Agenda goes hand-in-hand with the Universal Declaration, which recognizes the dignity of every person and the equal rights of women and men, and which proclaims a broad range of rights – civil, political, economic, social and cultural.
 
Bringing these ideals to life requires leadership, institutions, transparent governance and inclusive dialogue.
 
Today’s presence of civil society representatives and other stakeholders is a welcome step.
 
In that spirit, I wish you fruitful discussions.
 
Thank you.