16 November 2000

Today the General Assembly began discussing the equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council. The discussion is expected to continue tomorrow.

The President opened the World Television Forum, which is taking place at United Nations Headquarters 16-17 November. In his remarks about bridging the digital divide, Mr. Holkeri spoke about the impact that education has on the technological prospects of countries. The full text of his remarks is available on the "Statements and Messages" page and a photograph of Mr. Holkeri addressing the Forum can be viewed on the "Photos" page.

The President made remarks at a luncheon and award ceremony on the occasion of the International Day of Tolerance. In his remarks Mr. Holkeri referred to the Millennium Summit where the world's leaders affirmed the essential nature of tolerance to international relations and also to next year's World Conference Against Racism as milestones on the path towards the day when we can live together in peace and harmony. The full text of his remarks is available on the "Statements and Messages" page.

The President met with a group of nine Palestinian Media Practitioners, who are attending a training programme organized by the United Nations Department of Public Information.