Stoltenberg appeals to developing nations

Norways Premier, Jens Stoltenberg.

Speaking at the UN High-Level Summit on The Millennium Development Goals in New York, Norway's Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg appealed to developing nations to take more of the responisbility themselves for moving out of poverty.

Stoltenberg said:

- Ten years ago I signed the Millennium Declaration here in New York together with other world leaders.

- We made promises to improve the livelihoods of millions of people all over the world.

- For the first time world leaders made concrete commitments to reduce poverty, to provide access to education, health and other basic services.

- We have made progress. Hundreds of millions have been lifted out of desperate poverty. However, we are still lagging behind in reaching our goals. Our task is made even more challenging by the global financial crisis, by the dramatic effects of climate change and by the international food crisis.

He then went on to call on developing countries to mobilise more of their domestic resources.

- By broadening the tax base.

- By fighting corruption.

- By increasing transparency and improving accountability.

Stoltenberg pointed out that illicit financial flows from developing countries is estimated to more than six times the total annual development assistance.

- This drain on vital resources for development must be stopped, Stoltenberg said.

The Norwegian Prime Minister concluded:

- The Millennium Development Goals cannot be seen in isolation from climate change, armed conflict and women’s empowerment. All countries will be affected by climate change.

- But the most vulnerable, the poorest countries and peoples, those who have contributed least to the causes of climate change, will suffer most.

- It is in regions affected by armed conflict and violence that we have made the least progress. And we know that the single most important catalyst for change is women’s empowerment.

- We must honour our solemn promises made ten years ago here in New York. Building on the visions of the UN Charter, in which so much hope is enshrined, Stoltenberg said.

 Source: Norway Post