Welcome remarks to The Honourable Michael Bloomberg
Mayor of the City of New York
by H.E. Mr. Jan Kavan, President of the 57th Session of the General Assembly
13 September 2002

This morning I have the pleasure, on behalf of the General Assembly, to warmly welcome The Honourable Michael Bloomberg, Mayor of the City of New York – our host city – to address Member States.

Just two days ago the international community – together with all New Yorkers – marked the 1st anniversary of the tragic events of September 11. In New York City, and throughout the United States, the whole day was dedicated to thoughts and words of remembrance, which were also echoed at our commemorative ceremony on the grounds of the United Nations.

Let me also mention that on the same day the General Committee recommended for consideration at the 57th General Assembly, among other important items, the item entitled “Measures to eliminate international terrorism”. Again this year we will discuss various means of combating international terrorism.

Good relations between the Host City and the United Nations are very important to our ability to function and are fundamental to our everyday lives in New York. Therefore we are looking forward to the views of Mayor Bloomberg, which he will now share with us.