Dear Minister Krivokapić,

Dear Mayor Todorović, (Berane)

Dear fellow diplomats from around the globe,

Dear Colleagues,

Today, I have an immense privilege to greet the young diplomats from 32 countries. You, as young diplomats, hold the strength and skills to make major contributions to transforming our planet.

Fifteen years ago, UNDP and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs joined the forces to establish this Summer School for Young Diplomats, together with our partners from the Municipality of Berane. It started as a humble endeavour with an intent to strengthen diplomatic relations, create a network of diplomats around the world and put Montenegro on a global diplomacy map. Back in 2008, when the first School was held, we had participants from only 9 countries. Over the past fifteen years, 82 countries have sent 633 young diplomats to Montenegro to gain new skills and connect the countries together. Principles of open dialogue, multilateralism and passion for the art and craft of diplomacy are the pillar of this Summer School, which has already gained global recognition. We take pride in what we have accomplished so far. By providing a network of like-minded young diplomats aspiring to sustain global peace and security with diplomacy efforts, we hope to strengthen the belief that change does come from within.

On this day, when I see you, young diplomats from all over the world, I see you as ambassadors of a better tomorrow, the ones who will develop safer and more sustainable world. I trust you will strive to contribute to build solid and resilient societies, and already today actively participate in conquering ever demanding health, peace, and economic challenges.  There is a solid ground to overcome these challenges and it is: The Agenda 2030 and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. This is the only truly universal plan that connects all countries and citizens across the planet, and I am confident that our School alumni will contribute to the success and reinforce the dedication of countries to achieve the Goals.

As the pandemic, and the related social and economic fallout continue to unfold, trailed by the devastating global effects of the war in Ukraine and threats to the world peace, encouraging a new generation of international leaders who will shape a more positive outlook for the world is an imperative.  

Achieving peace and sustainable development requires mobilization of everyone’s potential. This goal will never be possible to achieve without the best efforts of everyone – women and men alike. The immense benefits that women bring to diplomacy and research is backed by evidence which shows that their participation in peace processes and negotiations results in more durable and stable peace. Yet, women represented only 23% of conflict parties delegations in UN-supported peace processes in 2020.

And this share would have been even lower without persistent measures by the UN. When international security policies and decisions affect women and men, then women and men should have equal opportunities to participate and shape them.  Increasing women’s participation in political, diplomatic and negotiation processes and ensuring they are at the table is vital to achieve equality and sustainable peace. With the UN and its agencies leading by example and continuously demonstrating commitment to equal rights and women empowerment, we also count on you, young diplomats, to help reinforce the world with trust and cooperation bolstered so that it gains more security, prosperity, and joint understanding between the people.

I wish you to have a productive, creative, and valuable week in Montenegro and encourage you to connect with your peers from other countries, so you can strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations. Hopefully, this School will contribute to your personal and professional development.  I also hope your careers will take off thanks to the connections you make during this internationally recognized School which inspires you to learn, exchange ideas, challenge, and lead.