On July 15, RA Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan participated in the ministerial segment of the UN high-level political forum on sustainable development in New York.

Minister Mirzoyan delivered the speech presented below.

"Mr. President,

It is an honor for me to address the ministerial segment of the High Level Political Forum.

The theme of this year's forum could not be more timely, as the global community faces many interrelated challenges and crises as it seeks to fulfill the promise of the Sustainable Development Goals.

The political declaration adopted in September 2023 emphasized that the 2030 Agenda remains our main road map for achieving sustainable development, while the Sustainable Development Goals and their targets aim to protect human rights and achieve gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.

However, as highlighted by the Secretary-General in his latest report, multiple overlapping crises have adversely affected global progress towards sustainable development goals by increasing the number of people in poverty, undermining food security, increasing inequality and widening the gender gap, with particular impact on vulnerable groups. The use of force, gross violations of human rights, and ethnic cleansing continue to shape international relations.

The solidarity and effective cooperation of the international community is crucial to reverse this negative trend and leave a safer and better world for future generations. Collectively as a global community, we can deliver ambitious and transformative change when there is sufficient political will and determination.

Here I would like to mention the question whether we are able not only to make our voice heard, but also to show by example that a change in such a trend is possible.

Mr. President,

Armenia was among the countries that had to face many crises during the last four years. While we were trying to overcome the global epidemic like other countries, the parallel large-scale war, aggression against Armenia, the influx of around 115,000 Armenians as a result of the blockade and ethnic cleansing in Nagorno Karabakh put our efforts towards the realization of the sustainable development goals of Armenia in serious danger. However, despite all the challenges, Armenia remained committed to the promise of the Sustainable Development Goals and to bringing about real change for its people by building strong democratic institutions, protecting human rights and the rule of law, promoting social inclusion, gender equality and promoting youth opportunities. Man plays a central role in our Government's efforts to implement the 2030 Agenda.

Later in the day, I will present Armenia's third voluntary national report, a significant attempt to assess progress and challenges in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals while identifying lessons learned.

In conclusion, I reaffirm Armenia's commitment to 2030. to the implementation of the agenda and efforts to better rebuild, leaving no one behind. As we approach the upcoming Future Summit, Armenia is ready to contribute to the adoption of a forward-looking and results-oriented Future Pact.

Thank you."