Hailing World’s Newest Independent Country, Secretary-General Welcomes 193rd

 

United Nations Member State at Flag-Raising Ceremony for South Sudan

 

Following are UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s remarks at the flag-raising ceremony for South Sudan in New York, today, 14 July:

It reminds me of the very historic independence ceremony which was held last Saturday in Juba:  many people — hundreds of thousands of people — standing under a very beautiful sky, under very hot sun, but moved and hopeful and deeply touched and excited.  This reminds me of exactly the same.

I am very pleased to be part of this historic flag-raising ceremony.  This is your moment, Mr. Vice-President [Riek Machar].  Just days ago, I stood among hundreds of thousands of the people of your country.  Together, we watched your flag rise for the first time over your new capital, Juba.

Now that flag will rise for the first time over our shared capital — the capital of the international community — here at the United Nations.  The United Nations is very pleased to welcome our 193^rd Member State — the newest nation in Africa, the newest nation on earth.  The colours of your flag represent the people, peace, the blood shed for freedom, your land and waters, with a guiding star for unity.

On behalf of the international community, and all the peoples of the world, we salute that flag.  We will work with you to realize all the hopes and dreams it represents.  We wish you justice, peace and prosperity.  We will stay with you on the long road ahead.

Like your flag, let us rise.  Let us rise, together, to the challenge.

Mabruk.  South Sudan Oyee.

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For information media • not an official record