I am honoured to be here today at the closing of this first Conference of Chiefs of Defence ever held at the United Nations.
I understand you have had a fruitful meeting. I am encouraged by your discussions. There is wide agreement on the value and crucial role of United Nations peacekeeping and peace operations.
Constant, inclusive and transparent dialogue with all stakeholders is fundamental to strengthening our partnership.
Your meeting here represents a critical moment in this dialogue and, in fact, for UN peace operations.