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Mr. President, Historical changes are taking place in the Mediterranean region. Italy has stood by the Arab peoples in their quest for justice and democracy. In the past months, we have engaged with the new leaders of these nations. I found in them a deep commitment which inspires hope. Both bilaterally and through the EU, we are lending concrete support to their new Governments to assist their recovery, set mutually-beneficial trade policies, and foster inclusive economic development, thereby promoting stability throughout the region. There is also an element of self-interest in this pursuit. Instability around the Mediterranean impacts our own security. Conflicts and social unrest on the southern shore spill over to our own shores. Terrorism finds new avenues to reach Europe. Trafficking in human beings has destabilizing effects on the countries of destination and often results tragedies at sea that we can no longer accept. The situation in the Sahel is of grave concern and a top priority for Italy. It is a volatile mix of fragile institutions, and rampant organized crime and terrorist groups. We cannot let the situation deteriorate any further, and Italy, for one, will make its contribution jointly with our partners and the states of the region.

The ultimate goals of peace and cooperation will be achieved only if all the countries concerned work together on a basis of mutual respect and a shared sense of purpose. A culture of dialogue must prevail over confrontation. Extremism and intolerance must be isolated and rejected. Rights, dignity and opportunities must be offered to every component and member of our societies, especially minorities and women.

Italy is fully committed to implementing such a vision. For us, protecting and promoting human rights is a long-standing domestic commitment as well as a fundamental pillar of our foreign policy. In this vein, we shall continue to pursue the universal abolition of the death penalty, the protection of minorities, the advancement of the status of women, and the free and safe expression of religion or belief. We need to cooperate wisely in firmly rejecting the misrepresentation of religions or beliefs as an instrument of disruption and destabilization. To achieve this goal, good laws are always necessary but they are not always enough. Tolerance must be promoted through educational programs and consistent grass-roots work, engaging the efforts of both Governments and civil society. I strongly encourage this membership and all relevant international organizations to resolutely pursue such an approach.