Our country, wishing to eliminate the grounds for block-based confrontation and create a common space of security, stated two times that we were ready to join NATO. Both times we were turned down.

The subordination of the majority to the minority, that was typical in international relations during the Western domination, has been giving way to a more cooperative approach, based on respect for everyone's interests and the accords between key stakeholders.

We often hear that the UN system is paralysed, that it is in crisis. Some even go as far as to say that it has become obsolete and it should be radically reformed. Yes, there are a lot of issues in the work of the UN. But we do not have a better alternative to the UN, we have to admit that.

In order to keep clear guidelines and not lose our way, we need a strong support. First and foremost, these are values cultivated in national cultures over the centuries. Culture and history, ethical and religious norms, the influence of geography and environment: key elements from which civilisations are born, special entities that have been created over centuries and determine the national identity, values, and traditions. All that serves as a guideline, allowing us to find our way and to weather the storms of the rough waters of international life.