Activities of Secretary-General in Colorado, 6-8 June

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, accompanied by Madam Ban Soon-taek, arrived in Denver, Colorado, on Thursday evening, 6 June.

On Friday morning, 7 June, the Secretary-General first went to Boulder, Colorado, to visit the National Center for Atmospheric Research — a leading research and development centre on atmospheric and related sciences, including climate change.  He told the scientists he met there that, next year, he would be convening a high-level meeting of world leaders to mobilize political will for a universal, ambitious and binding climate change agreement by 2015.  (See Press Release SG/SM/15087.)

Back in Denver, the Secretary-General addressed the Denver Forum, a public forum of prominent leaders in politics, business and academia.  In his remarks, he talked about the need for sustainable development and sustainable peace, and also stressed the importance of empowering women and young people around the world.  (See Press Release SG/SM/15088.)

Later in the afternoon, the Secretary-General visited the University of Denver and meet with its Chancellor, Robert Coombe.  He then attended the university’s graduate commencement ceremony, where an honorary degree in public service was conferred upon him.  Addressing the Class of 2013, the Secretary-General called on them to choose public service and to become global citizens.  “We must all use our passions, our gifts, our entrepreneurial energy, our power as voters, consumers and concerned citizens.  I appeal to all of you here to join us in this mission of hope,” he said.  (See Press Release SG/SM/15089.)

Following the commencement ceremony, the Secretary-General and his wife attended a reception and dinner hosted by the Chancellor of the University of Denver.

On Saturday, 8 June, the Secretary-General and Madam Ban travelled back to New York.