INTERNATIONAL CHALLENGES DISCUSSED AS SECRETARY-GENERAL HOSTS LUNCHEON FOR HEADS OF UNITED NATIONS PRINCIPAL ORGANS

INTERNATIONAL CHALLENGES DISCUSSED AS SECRETARY-GENERAL HOSTS LUNCHEON

FOR HEADS OF UNITED NATIONS PRINCIPAL ORGANS

Following is a statement issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan on the meeting of the heads of the Principal Organs of the United Nations held on 29 October:

The heads of the Six Principal Organs of the United Nations (General Assembly, Security Council, Economic and Social Council, Trusteeship Council, International Court of Justice and the Secretariat) held their fifth annual meeting yesterday afternoon followed by a luncheon hosted by the Secretary-General.  In 1998, the Secretary-General began the practice of holding meetings among the heads of the six Principal Organs, in order to exchange views and coordinate matters, with a view to improving efficiency in the workings of the Organization.

The five Presidents and the Secretary-General discussed issues and challenges facing the international community.  They focused on issues of common concern such as the security of United Nations staff in conflict areas, revitalization of the work of the Principal Organs, as well as reform of the Organization as a whole.  The meeting also discussed matters relating to Iraq, the Middle East, the Millennium Development Goals, and economic development and trade.

The Deputy Secretary-General reported on progress achieved in the areas of Secretariat reform and HIV/AIDS.

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