You will have to carry out diplomacy within a concept of an all-embracing solidarity. We have to believe in the future. We have to persuade both present and future generations that human rights and democracy coupled with economic well-being are a very sensitive plant which requires delicate handling. Diplomats of today and tomorrow, in serving their country, have to serve these principles too. The end of ideologies, has given diplomats better instruments to deal with problems as they emerge.
Diplomats have to be pragmatic in dealing with political, economic and humanitarian problems.
Addressing myself specifically to our Academy, I think that the first ten years have been those which have confirmed our usefulness and our objectives. During the past decade the Mediterranean Academy for Diplomatic Studies has given young diplomats new perspectives, new tools to make use of in their careers. The Academy has today a network of alumni who work around the world. You will find this a valuable asset throughout the years. In the Academy we have been pioneers in the field of Information Technology and Diplomacy.