“We should not combine developmental aid with activities that others perceive as the imposition of a system of values or an ideology on them,” he said at the UN headquarters.
“This concerns in particular the issue of the family model, educational programs, the education of children and the protection of life,” he added.
“Let's focus on standards which are guaranteed to bring freedom and a better life to all.”
During his address, which precedes the 70th session General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly, Duda likewise reflected on his own country's economic resurgence since the end of communism 25 years ago.
He noted that the development was possible not only thanks to the Solidarity movement, which had the support of millions of Poles, but also owing to the help of wealthier countries.
He said that there is “still a lot ahead us” but that he is “convinced that the energy of my compatriots, their diligence and innovative thinking will ensure that we will achieve in our homeland the level of development that we have aspired to for years.”
On Monday morning local time, the president will speak in the General Debate of the 70th session of the UN General Assembly.
He is also due to hold talks with the King of Jordan, the presidents of Chile, Jordan, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Georgia and Senegal, as well as with the Prime Minister of New Zealand.
Duda welcomed by Polish community
Meanwhile, the president was warmly received by members of the Polish community (Polonia) on Sunday in New York's Greenpoint district, where almost half of the residents are of Polish ancestry.
President of Poland Andrzej Duda addresses members of America's Polish community in New York's Greenpoint district at McGolrick Park. Photo: PAP/Jacek Turczyk
The recently elected president attended a mass at the St. Stanislaus Kostka Church and he also spoke to Polish-Americans in a local park.
His address was frequently applauded, and members of the crowd chanted that Duda is “our president” and sang him the Polish equivalent of the 'Happy Birthday' song ('We wish you to live for a 100 years').
He encouraged the Polish diaspora to continue to send letters to American authorities with regard to Poland being admitted to the US's visa-waiver programme, an issue that has remained unresolved for many years.
He argued that if the action is collective, “I am convinced that it will bring the desired effect more quickly.”
The American Polish Advisory Council (APAC) launched a new initiative on Sunday which will highlight all the Poles who have been refused visas in recent years. (nh/rk)