Ban Ki-Moon Speaks in Seychelles About Climate Change Challenges
Small States like Seychelles have served as a “magnifying lens” for many issues that all nations must face, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told the National Assembly today, calling for the archipelago's continued support as the UN tackles three critical challenges: climate change, global sustainability and easing humanitarian suffering.
“In today's world, we are all interconnected. Problems and challenges are never confined to one country or region. Insecurity is spreading. Massive inequality persists, among people and nations,” said said Mr. Ban, stressing that too many people in too many places are excluded because of their race, religion, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity and other differences.
Moreover, he noted that violent extremists are committing atrocities designed to divide and destroy communities. Criminal networks are exploiting lawlessness and chaos and building links with terrorists, to traffic people, illegal drugs and weapons, and to hide their profits, he added.
“These problems require cooperation and coordination, in a global response. The United Nations is the forum where we seek solutions,” the Secretary-General said, praising Seychelles' strong democratic record, its efforts to secure political progress for women, measures to protect the environment – half the archipelago's land and one third of its vast marine territory are already protected – and to promote the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
Ministerie van Buitlandse Zaken