I am delighted to send my greetings to all taking part in this important gathering. My appreciation goes to the Governments of Japan and Kenya, and the other co-sponsors of the conference. The United Nations is honoured to co-host it with you.

Let me pay tribute to Japan for its sustained efforts to support Africa's development. Since its inception 14 years ago, the TICAD process has grown and expanded to embrace a range of critical areas. It has become a vehicle for consolidating relations between Africa and Asia. It has developed into a forum for sharing experiences and ideas between our two regions. Throughout this process, the United Nations has been a proud partner.

I am heartened that you are devoting this session to energy and the environment. There are two billion people on this planet who have no access to modern forms of energy. In Africa, half of all those living in cities, and nine out of 10 rural people, are deprived of this essential resource. This is a major obstacle to reaching the Millennium Development Goals.

And yet, less than five per cent of total aid to Africa is currently devoted to energy. We must step up efforts to bring affordable energy supplies to Africa. And we must do so in a way that does not harm the environment, damage people's health or contribute to climate change.

This will require a collective effort by the entire world community -- Governments, regional and international organizations, the private sector and civil society. All have a contribution to make in helping Africa fulfil its enormous potential.

This forum presents an opportunity to refocus attention on this important issue. I know you will bring all your vision, innovation and commitment to bear on this task.

In that spirit, I wish you a most productive session.