In progress at UNHQ

SG/SM/6709

MUCH CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED IF INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY POOLS EFFORTS AND RESOURCES, SECRETARY-GENERAL SAYS

21 September 1998


Press Release
SG/SM/6709


MUCH CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED IF INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY POOLS EFFORTS AND RESOURCES, SECRETARY-GENERAL SAYS

19980921 Kofi Annan Gives Toast at Luncheon For Heads of State and Government Attending Assembly Session

Following is the text of a toast given by Secretary-General Kofi Annan at a luncheon for Heads of State and Government attending the fifty-third session of the General Assembly, in New York today:

We live in an interdependent world. Indeed we live in a global village, and the General Assembly is a meeting of the elders. In times of crisis, a village turns to the elders for advice and guidance, and that is why we are all gathered here.

This morning, speech after speech listed the problems confronting us. We have a daunting task. But we should not despair. Let us proceed with open minds, optimism, creativity and persistence. If we pool our efforts and resources, there is little we cannot accomplish -- together.

May I propose a toast: to you, my good friends, and to the United Nations.

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For information media. Not an official record.