Opening his speech, Bettel drew an interim assessment of the Covid-19 pandemic, in particular thanking the medical staff and researchers for the efforts made: “If we can express ourselves in this forum, we owe it to dedication, perseverance and genius of all those who have spared no effort for more than a year and a half to contain the Covid-19 pandemic.”
The prime minister also called for solidarity on immunisation: “Access to vaccines is uneven. And as long as that is the case, we will not be immune to new variants and more virulent mutations.”
“Luxembourg is aware of the importance of vaccine solidarity. We are ready to continue our international solidarity efforts to fight the pandemic. I am optimistic that we can overcome the pandemic if we build on solidarity and science.”
Xavier Bettel also highlighted that the pandemic should make it possible to initiate a change in mentality in the face of crises - especially in the context of climate change, which requires a joint response: “The pandemic forces us to recognise the need and the urgency to change our how to. Business as usual is no longer an option. We must strengthen our collective action within the multilateral system, with the United Nations at its centre.”
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The prime minister concluded by sending messages of hope and action: “There are reasons for hope. Let’s not give up. Let’s persevere. Let’s take action. Let us cooperate to overcome the trials facing mankind. They should inspire us to act.”
He continued: “As politicians, we must act decisively, together, to tackle global challenges. Governments do not have all the keys in hand. We must act in concert with private sector actors, civil society, our citizens, and in particular young people who are rightly worried about their future.”
Bettel also attended several meetings.
