Private Sector Crucial to Realizing 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Secretary-General Tells Pearl Initiative, Global Compact Forum

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message to the second regional forum of the Pearl Initiative and United Nations Global Compact, in Dubai today:

Welcome to this important gathering.  I commend the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammad al Qassimi, Ruler of Sharjah, and His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak al Nahyan, Minister for Culture and Knowledge Development of the United Arab Emirates.

The [United Arab Emirates] shows fine examples of companies investing in renewable energy.  The UN Global Compact is making the Sustainable Development Goals more local for its network of businesses.

The Pearl Initiative is expanding good corporate governance across the Gulf region.  This is increasingly important now that the international community has agreed on a common course towards a sustainable future.  The private sector is crucial to realizing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

More and more corporate leaders understand that sustainable development is not just the right way forward — it also serves the long-term interests of businesses and stakeholders by improving stability and prosperity.

Governance failures, humanitarian crises and persistent economic inequality have devastating consequences.  That is why we must redouble efforts to help businesses recognize that sustainable development creates immense opportunities.

I wish the Pearl Initiative continued success in advancing our common vision for a better future.  Thank you.  Shukran Zajilan.