Amb. Lezarious Kapambwe,
Prof. Jeffrey Sachs,
Ms. Petra Nemcova,
Distinguished guests,
Thank you all for coming ― today’s event has been a very memorable one.
For the fourth time in its long history, the Economic and Social Council has held a special event dedicated to strengthening the United Nations’ relationship with the business and philanthropic communities.
On this day marked by partnerships, I extend my sincere thanks to our co-organizers ― UNICEF, UNESCO, UN Office for Partnership (UNOP) and Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy (CECP) (I hope you all understand the acronyms) ― as well as co-conveners for helping make it possible.
Teamwork, partnerships, working together ― this is what the UN stands for and today, we saw it in action.
We heard important commitments; now, let’s follow up on these promises to ensure the commitments in the Chamber are translated into real change on the ground.
Those who pledged action should report ― freely and regularly ― on their progress. ECOSOC can help.
I urge the President and the Bureau to establish an informal system to make reporting back easier, one which will offer the philanthropic community a more active role in the Council’s work for years to come.
I also encourage you to join ECOSOC this July, when Ministers of Education, representatives of the UN system and civil society actors gather in Geneva to accelerate the Education for All Goals.
Whether or not you make it to Geneva, building on today’s collaboration is critical. The choice, Ladies and Gentlemen, is clear ― together we must, together we will, as we strive for a better world for all.
Thank you.