UNITED NATIONS FOUNDATION HAS BECOME ‘THE UN’S BEST FRIEND’, SAYS SECRETARY-GENERAL

OFFERING CONGRATULATIONS ON TENTH ANNIVERSARY

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message on the tenth anniversary of the United Nations Foundation, observed 13 June 2008:

I am delighted to congratulate the United Nations Foundation on its tenth anniversary.

Back in 1997, when Ted Turner announced his historic support for the United Nations, no one could have known how the Foundation would evolve and what its role would be.  Today, we know that Ted Turner has delivered beyond anyone’s best hopes.  The United Nations Foundation has become the UN’s best friend.

You have become a broker that brings in new partners.  You have grown into a tireless advocate for the United Nations, helping to tell our story and strengthen our relationship with the United States.  You have supported our capacity to respond to global challenges, in a world where no sector and no country can address these challenges alone.

Happy birthday, United Nations Foundation.  I look forward to the next decade of partnership with you.  Let’s keep working together for a more peaceful, prosperous and just world.

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For information media • not an official record