As ‘Global Thermostat Continues to Rise’, Meteorological Services Now More Essential than Ever, Says Secretary-General in Video Message to World Congress

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message for the seventeenth World Meteorological Congress, taking place in Geneva from 25 May to 12 June:

Mr. David Grimes, President of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Mr. Michel Jarraud, Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization, Excellencies, Distinguished WMO Members, ladies and gentlemen,

This seventeenth World Meteorological Congress comes at a pivotal moment.

This year, Governments will make major decisions on a new sustainable development agenda and a universal climate change agreement.

2015 must be a time for global action.

We rely on you, the world’s meteorologists, to provide us with the scientific knowledge that leaders in Government, business and society at large need to make informed choices.

As the global thermostat continues to rise, meteorological services are more essential than ever.

Last year, in the lead-up to the Climate Summit, many of you prepared compelling videos providing a glimpse of what a weather report might look like in 2050.

I encourage you to make similar efforts between now and the December Climate Conference in Paris — so that all understand the stakes involved.

I wish you the greatest success at this Congress.

I look forward to working with you to advance bold climate action that will improve the lives of people and the health of our planet.  Thank you.