Secretary-General, at Launch of Ban Ki-Moon Center for Sustainable Development, Praises Predecessor for ‘Waking Up the World’ to Climate Change Realities

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message to the launch of the Ban Ki-moon Center for Sustainable Development, in Seoul today:

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am pleased to greet all those attending the launch of the Ban Ki-moon Center for Sustainable Development at the Institute of Global Engagement and Empowerment at Yonsei University.

I congratulate my distinguished predecessor for this timely and important initiative.

As Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr. Ban worked tirelessly to advance sustainable development.  He helped wake up the world to the realities of climate change.  With his personal experience of war and poverty, he was a moving advocate for the vulnerable and the voiceless.  His efforts were crucial in achieving two global milestones:  the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on climate change.

With this new Center, Mr. Ban continues that work.  I offer my best wishes as the Center builds on that legacy.  I have no doubt that Mr. Ban will continue to have a positive impact in advancing peace and prosperity for all on a healthy planet.

Thank you all for your commitment to the values and goals of the United Nations.