There are many who criticise the United Nations. And those of us who know this institution well know that it is not immune from criticism. But those who argue against the United Nations advance no credible argument as to what should replace it. Whatever its imperfections, the United Nations represents a necessary democracy of states. Kevin Rudd Read Quote
As nations we should also commit afresh to righting past wrongs. In Australia we began this recently with the first Australians – the oldest continuing culture in human history. On behalf of the Australian Parliament, this year I offered an apology to indigenous Australians for the wrongs they had suffered in the past. Kevin Rudd Read Quote
I am determined to honour the confidence which has been extended to us by the people of our great land. And I say to all of those who have voted for us today, I say to each and every one of them that I will be a prime minister for all Australians. Kevin Rudd Read Quote
I was elected by the people of Australia as Prime Minister of Australia. I was elected to do a job, I intend to continue doing that job. I intend to continue doing it to the absolute best of my ability. Part of that job has been to steer this country through the worst economic crisis the world has seen in 75 years. Kevin Rudd Read Quote
A continuing narrative throughout Australia’s history that says it is better to build up than to tear down – this is the continuing mission of Labor. Kevin Rudd Read Quote
Ladies and gentlemen, it is with great sadness that I announce that I will resign as Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs. I am sad because I love this job. I’m totally dedicated to the work that we are doing in Australia’s name around the world, and I believe that we have achieved many good results for Australia, and I’m proud of them. Kevin Rudd Read Quote
There is a deep affection in Australia for the Queen. And I mean the Queen’s been the Queen ever since I was born. I mean she is part of the firmament of Australia’s sort of national life; there’s a deep respect for her role. Kevin Rudd Read Quote
So in terms of the global economic footprint, let’s just say China within the next decade and a bit is likely to emerge as the world’s largest economy. Obviously its foreign policy and security policy footprint increases and that creates both challenges and opportunities for us all. Kevin Rudd Read Quote
I am deeply committed to the cause of Indigenous Australians, and not just because of the Apology, but the big challenges which lie ahead in closing the gap. Kevin Rudd Read Quote
We have a prime minister, I’m the foreign minister, I’m trying to get on with the job of doing Australia’s foreign policy. Kevin Rudd Read Quote
