Secretary-General, in Video Message, Urges World Chambers Congress to Support Ambitious, Universal Climate Agreement in Paris

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message to the ninth World Chambers Congress, held in Turin, Italy, 10-12 June:

Distinguished Chairs of the International Chamber of Commerce and the World Chambers Federation, chamber presidents from around the world, honoured guests, ladies and gentlemen,

I am pleased to send greetings to the ninth World Chambers Conference.  Thank you for your contributions to the United Nations.  I look forward to deepening our partnership in this crucially important year for global efforts to advance peace, development and human rights.

In September, world leaders will adopt a new, transformative sustainable development agenda.  In December, Governments will come together to forge a new path forward for collective action on climate change.

I am pleased that the International Chamber of Commerce is supporting these efforts.  Working with the Government of France, the International Criminal Court will host four private-public dialogues between now and the Paris climate conference.  These will provide a platform for supporting innovative business solutions that will encourage green investment and further the development of clean energy.

The private sector has a critical role to play in advancing meaningful action on climate change.  Equally important, business chambers can and must encourage transparent and sustainable business practices.

I urge your members to support an ambitious, universal climate agreement in Paris.  This is essential to building a more resilient, low-carbon and prosperous future for all.

I will also count on you to join us in implementing the new sustainable development agenda.  Thank you again for your support.  I wish you a productive congress.