Statement to the Press on behalf of the co-chairs of the UN Millennium Summit,
President Tarja Halonen of the Republic of Finland and
President Sam Nujoma of the Republic of Namibia

(NEW YORK, 5 September) The co-chairs met today to discuss preparations for the Millennium Summit, beginning tomorrow.

They agreed that the Summit presents an opportunity of truly historic dimension to guide the agenda of the United Nations and to shape the actions of the international community for years to come. In a changing world subject to an ever more rapid pace of globalization, they stressed, it is essential that the United Nations lives up to its natural role as a universal and indispensable organization.

The co-chairs addressed the crucial responsibility of Heads of State and Government assembled here in adopting the Summit declaration and in materializing its content in their subsequent actions. In particular, they welcomed approval earlier today at the closing of the 54th session of the General Assembly of the resolution containing the draft of the Millennium Declaration.

At their meeting, President Halonen and President Nujoma commended UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan on presenting an expertly composed and challenging Millennium Report. The co-chairs looked forward to the unique opportunity that the Summit will provide for Heads of State and Government to freely exchange views in an interactive manner on issues vital to peace, human security, international cooperation, development and poverty eradication. They also expressed satisfaction with the opportunity of working together closely for the successful completion of their historic and challenging joint responsibility.

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