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Acting President Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to participants in the South-South summit meeting in Havana, Cuba.
“Please accept my heartfelt greetings to the participants in the South-South meeting in Havana.
“This meeting is being held to discuss important issues, such as the rapid growth of globalisation. The latter offers new opportunities for economic and technical development, and is also encouraging dramatic changes in the life of society and each man, and in the system of international relations. At the same time, it has given rise to many potential risks and threats.
“Many countries have reason to fear that they may fall by the wayside of global progress. The economic and social divide that appeared between different countries in the second half of the 20th century may grow deeper still, becoming a source of new troubles in the 21st century. Other trans-border problems have also been aggravated, notably international terrorism and organised crime, militant separatism, and trafficking in weapons and drugs.
“The global community is searching for an adequate response to these challenges. We must not just prevent the development of the negative elements of globalisation, but also spotlight its benefits for all countries and nations. Globalisation should benefit social progress, in particular by creating more jobs, reducing unemployment, and eliminating poverty.
“Russia is advocating a partnership for progress combining national responsibility with international support. We are convinced that a proper response to modern challenges can be found only in the framework of a democratic system of international relations based on respect for the basic principles of international law. Chief among these are the sovereign equality of states, the non-use of force, respect for human rights and liberties, and non-interference in the internal affairs of states.
“Russia welcomes the positive contribution of Latin American, Asian and African countries to the development of a new world order. We have in common with the participants in your meeting such things as a commitment to the fundamental principles of international law and a desire to strengthen the leading role of the UN in ensuring international peace and security. We believe that the Millennium Summit and the Millennium General Assembly, to be held this year at the UN, could help find a solution to the serious problems facing the international community. Russia is prepared to constructively cooperate with all states in ensuring their success.
“I am convinced that your meeting will make a worthy contribution to world development.”
Vladimir Putin