Dear Fellow Ministers, Heads of Delegation, Ladies and Gentlemen,
We have gathered here today to answer one question ?What will it take to
translate global decisions into action at local level?? It sounds like a simple
and straightforward question, but actually it is not. All of us who are
involved in policy implementation know the meaning of this challenge.
Let me share a few thoughts of my own with you. I believe that first and
foremost we need strong political will, a clear focus on what is sustainable
development and the commitment it takes to translate global decisions into
action at the regional, national and local levels.
Also, sound and transparent governance mechanisms need to be in place
with clear authority and jurisdiction to deliver and advance in the
development agenda. In this regard, decentralized administrative systems, at
local and municipal levels, need to be empowered to decide and implement
global decisions that they believe are for the benefit to their communities.
Local institutions need to have sufficient institutional, financial and
technical capacities to implement their programs.
It has become clear that implementation of sustainable development,
especially those related to social services, require building partnerships at all
levels. Even within the government structure, partnerships among relevant
ministries and institutions are needed to ensure coordination and to avoid
duplication efforts. Going one step further, the Governments need to engage
with the private sector and civil society to advance the implementation of
sustainable development agenda.
At a much broader scale, international cooperation is of utmost importance
to ensure implementation. The development partners need to honor their
commitments especially in the area of capacity building, technology transfer
and means of implementation.
We also need to encourage the participation of our fellow Ministers
responsible for Financing, Economic Affairs, Social Welfare, Transport,
Mining, Science and Technology and Development Planning in the CSD
process. Most often we see the representation of two pillars of sustainable
development missing in the CSD sessions. Changing this trend will not only
promote integrated approach to sustainable development, but will ensure that
decisions made at this form are transparent and reflected in national
sustainable development plans and strategies.
These are some of my thoughts. I am anxious to list to hear yours. Since this
is an informal session, I am looking forward to an open and frank dialogue
among Ministers and heads of delegations.
Thank you.
