in message to asia-pacific model United Nations conference, Secretary-General

commends exploration of proactive approaches to development emergency

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message to the World Federation of United Nations Associations, in Incheon, Republic of Korea, today, 21 July:

I send warm greetings to all those taking part in this Model United Nations Conference.  Let me thank the World Federation of UN Associations, as well as the UN Association of Korea, for making it possible.

You have gathered to explore a timely and pressing theme -- achieving the Millennium Development Goals by 2015.  Passing the midpoint to the deadline, we face a development emergency.  I commend you for exploring proactive approaches.

From alternative energy sources to disaster-risk reduction, from the knowledge-based economy to the fight against human trafficking, your topics reflect an understanding of our global community.  You know that global threats in the twenty-first century spare no one, and only by working together can we address them.

You represent the United Nations as it should be -- people from all countries coming together to find solutions to problems through constructive debate and an exchange of ideas.  In this way, you can build a better understanding of our United Nations -- what it is, what it does, and what it can do.

You are the face of the future and I am grateful to every one of you for your commitment.  I wish you a most stimulating conference.

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For information media • not an official record