Secretary-General, at Uganda Exhibit, Calls Powerful Images Detailing Natural Treasures Reminder of ‘Sacred Responsibility’ for Sustainable Development

Following are UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, at the exhibit showcasing Uganda, at Headquarters, today:

Welcome to this wonderful exhibit.  I thank all of the distinguished officials and artists who join us today.  I especially thank His Excellency Sam Kutesa, President of the General Assembly, for his leadership over the past year.

These powerful images show Uganda’s natural treasures.  They speak directly to why the world needs Agenda 2030 — our bold new vision for sustainable development.  Tourism is a major force in the global economy that can promote respect for the environment.  More than 1 billion tourists crossed international borders last year.

This exhibit shows the beauty of wildlife and nature.  It reminds us of our sacred responsibility to preserve the environment as a legacy to future generations.  

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, I visited Uganda several times.  My best memory was not in a meeting room — it was on the football field.  President Museveni and I played a friendly match for war victims.  I was on the Justice team and he was on the Dignity team.  Of course, justice and dignity go hand-in-hand, so we were fighting for the same goals.

I count on Uganda to continue supporting the United Nations as we promote peace, development and human rights in the country and the world.  Thank you.