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Peace and Security
Remarks to the Parliament of Kyrgyzstan Bi shkek , 3 Apr il 2010
S
alamatsizby Urmattu Myrza Janna iymdar. Greetings, ladies and gentlemen. The world knows Kyrgyzstan for the warmth of your freedom-loving people, the richness of your culture, the beauty of your ancient lands. It is a pleasure and a great honour to be here for the first time, to see and experience all this for myself. From the epic tale of the Manas to the legendary Silk Road, you have enriched civilization with centuries of history, philosophy and exchange. Now this ancient crossroads of cultures and ideas is nearing a milestone – one that showcases your past and present, your nation’s youth and vigor. Next year marks the twentieth anniversary of independence. The United Nations has been honored to partner with you from the beginning. Despite the challenging circumstances of your early days, you immediately set ambitious goals worthy of the proud history and independent spirit of Kyrgyzstan. I cannot put it better than the Preamble of your Constitution: “[…] guided by the ancestors’ precepts to live in unity (and) peace […] to confirm our adherence to human rights and freedoms […] to establish ourselves […] as a free and democratic civil society.” Your aspirations echo our common United Nations Charter. I have come to Kyrgyzstan to offer the full support of the United Nations in realizing these universal values. I carry with me a clear message: Central Asia is central to our world. It is a player on the global stage. Your goals, your hopes, your challenges and your responses to them will help shape not only a stronger region, but a better world. Your role is critical. As parliamentarians, you have a high responsibility for building consensus, framing new policies, building social institutions and laws, promoting democracy and political freedoms, advancing progress and social well-being. Here in Kyrgyzstan, the Jogorku Kenesh, the Parliament, has helped lead the way, to develop an independent state, build a market economy and take care of people’s concerns, and build democratic society and institutions. The United Nations has been proud to work with you. As parliamentarians, you also engage with diverse constituencies and listen to disparate voices: independent political parties, local associations and non-governmental organizations, women’s groups and human rights associations, media organizations. Everywhere I go, I also seek different views. It widens my understanding, helps me appreciate diversity and culture, equips me to develop fresh responses and solutions. Robust civil society, tolerance for diversity and media freedom – all are fun-