Israel would like to take the opportunity to congratulate and salute volunteer groups around the globe for their tireless work on improving individual lives and making the world a better place.

Volunteers are making a real difference in a variety of areas: from peace building to building infrastructure, from fighting poverty to educating about nutrition. Volunteers are a key component for closing gaps between different countries.  

But, volunteering is a two-way street – the individuals that are contributing their time and efforts to assist others are receiving a precious gift. They have the unique opportunity to participate in other people's reality and experience different cultures in the most humbling way. They also realize the power of giving without expecting anything in return.

According to the Jewish tradition every person carries the obligation of "TIKUN OLAM". Literally meaning: to mend the world. We believe that each one of us has the responsibility to contribute - either big or small- to make the world a better place. The values and people we celebrate here today are the best expression of this old tradition.

Finally, Israel would like to recognize the importance of the involvement of the business sector in promoting the UN development agenda. We would like to express our appreciation for UN Volunteers and its partners for launching the extremely important initiative of Impact 2030.

Together with UN Volunteers and its partners, we look forward  to expanding  Israeli participation across the globe in volunteering activities in the future.

Thank you.