Mr. President,

Heads of state or government,

Ladies and gentlemen:

I want to express my very sincere thanks for the words of welcome on the part of e president of Cuba when he received us in Havana, and I want to extend that gratitude, in a very special way, to all the Cuban people, whose affection and hospitality accompany us throughout our stay on this beautiful island.

Tomorrow the Ibero-American Summit will begin. As the focus for our discussions, the Cuban authorities have proposed the theme of Ibero-America and the international financial situation in a globalized economy. I believe I reflect the sentiments of all those present when I say that this choice has been particularly good.

In recent years, all our countries, to a greater or lesser extent, have noticed an inflection in our economic policies whose beneficial effects are now being perceived.

For that reason, at this moment it is opportune for making a review and determining, as Ibero-Americans, the elements which allow us to create a future of growth and prosperity, on a solid basis.

At the same time, I am certain that all of us are also convinced that these discussions must be based on the fundamental consideration that the economic policies we adopt can only be justified if their final result is that of assuring a growth which brings with it an improvement in the well-being of our citizens, social cohesion, a fight against inequalities and special support for the most needy sectors.

Tomorrow, at the International Conference Center, we will also analyze the international financial situation and the possible policies which allow us to take advantage of the benefits of the globalized economy, diminishing and eliminating factors of instability, as much as possible.

Given that many Ibero-American countries have suffered the consequences of financial fluctuations outside of our region, it is necessary to offer a common response in international forums.

The Havana Summit will also determine the structure and functioning of the Ibero-American Cooperation Secretariat, created last year at the Porto Summit. It will undoubtedly facilitate greater efficiency and agility in the significant cooperation effort taking place with the Summits’ support, and from which many of our fellow citizens will benefit.

I am convinced that, beyond the current procedings, the Havana Summit will make a great contribution to reinforcing our identity and consolidating the Ibero-American Community of Nations, founded on the only viable bases: our shared languages and cultures and our firm conviction that only with authentic democracy, with full guarantees of freedom and with a scrupulous respect for human rights on all our parts can our peoples successfully face the 21st century.

Now I would like to invite everyone present to toast the success of the 9th Summit, and the happiness and prosperity of the Cuban people.