The Secretary-General met yesterday with H.E. Mr. Miguel Arias Canete, European Union Commissioner for Energy and Climate Action, and H.E. Mr. Gian Luca Galletti, Minister of the Environment of Italy, which currently holds the presidency of the European Union.

The Secretary-General voiced appreciation for the great leadership demonstrated by the EU. Its emissions reduction decision in October helped to launch a series of positive developments in the areas of post-2020 climate action and climate financing.

He also said he hopes for the EU's continued and strong support towards a universal, meaningful climate agreement in Paris in 2015.