Secretary-General, in Message, Says Research Performed by International Institute

for Applied Systems Analysis Can Contribute to Achieving Key United Nations Goals

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message to the Fortieth Anniversary Conference of the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis, in Vienna, today, 24 October:

Your Excellency President Fischer of Austria,

Your Excellency President Klaus of Czech Republic,

Honourable Ministers,

Heads of UN Agencies,

Excellencies,

Distinguished participants,

It is a pleasure to congratulate the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) on the occasion of its fortieth anniversary conference.  IIASA is well respected within the United Nations — for your scientific contributions, and for bringing countries and scientific disciplines together to cooperate in a truly international and non-political environment.

Many of the issues you will discuss in the days ahead have direct relevance for the work of the United Nations, including our efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals.

I would also like to acknowledge the involvement of IIASA scientists in many UN activities, including my Sustainable Energy for All initiative.

This is a time of profound turmoil and transition.  We face rising unemployment, rising uncertainty and, in too many places, a rising tide of intolerance.

I have set out an action agenda that focuses on five imperatives:  sustainable development; prevention; building a more secure world; supporting countries in transition; and empowering the world’s women and young people.

Your research can contribute in each of these areas, and I look forward to continuing our mutually productive relationship in the years ahead.

Thank you for helping the United Nations to meet today’s tests and seize the opportunities of an era of dramatic change.

Thank you.

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For information media • not an official record