Madame moderator/Ms. Westerholm,
Excellences,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

I would like to thank the Swedish Government and the UN for the organization of this useful discussion pertaining to the issues of national implementation of Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In our view, Sustainable Development Goals are representing a kind of a test, both on national and international level. From international perspective, the process is and will continue to display to what extent the member states are ready for cooperation on regional and international levels in implementing these targets. From the national point of view, it will help to reveal the strong and weak sides of the practical implementation of our Goals.

Armenia has gained certain experience in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and we look forward to the events like this one to share it with our partners. Undoubtedly, it is also a good opportunity to learn about the advanced Swedish experience, for the exchange of knowledge and good practices. And we are glad that Armenia’s progress and experience have been noticed by our Swedish partners.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Currently, the nationalization process of the Sustainable Development Goals in Armenia has been completed with ongoing efforts to synchronize them with Armenia`s National Development Strategy 2030 and the overall reform process. This process is complemented by the National SDG Innovation LAB which is a joint initiative of the Government of Armenia and the UNDP Country office. The LAB is set to accelerate the implementation of these goals with a focus on the strong impact of innovation in advancing “smart development”. It is functioning within the framework of the Centre for Strategic Initiatives, the government's own laboratory for reforms and creative ideas. Shortly, you will have the opportunity to listen to the presentation of Mr. Erik Gyulazyan, who will elaborate on the National innovation LAB and the process of advancing the Sustainable Development Goals in Armenia.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Armenia is among those 47 countries that have volunteered for National Review process at the 2018 High-Level Political Forum to take place this summer under the auspices of the ECOSOC. I am aware, that Sweden has already gone through that exercise having collaboration and cooperation, both nationally and internationally, at the core for the implementation of the Agenda 2030. We very much value this approach and stand ready to work hand in hand with Sweden and other international partners in advancing the Agenda 2030.

Madame Moderator,

Once again I thank the Swedish Government for their hospitality and pass the floor to Mr. Gyulazayn for his presentation.

Thank you.