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 9th 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 ICC 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.

Thank you.