6 June 2001

The 25th special session of the General Assembly for an Overall Review and Appraisal of the Implementation of the Habitat Agenda begun today. In his opening remarks, after having been elected as the President of the session, Mr. Holkeri stressed the need to ensure adequate shelter for all and to make human settlements safer, healthier and more pleasant to live in. The full text of the opening remarks is available on the Statements and Messages page. The President presided over both morning and afternoon meetings of the special session.

In between the meetings the President met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Republic of Korea, H.E. Dr. Han Seung-soo and attended a luncheon hosted by the Minister. Dr. Han has been endorsed by the Asian Group to the position of the President of the 56th session of the General Assembly.

Later in the day the President hosted a reception on the occasion of the Habitat special session.