The Secretary-General welcomes the approval by the General Assembly today of the relationship agreement between the United Nations and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).  Upon signature of the agreement on 19 September 2016, IOM will become a related organization of the United Nations system.

The Secretary-General believes that the approval of the agreement by the governing bodies of both organizations marks a major milestone in the long-standing and close relationship between the United Nations and IOM.  The relationship agreement not only formalizes this partnership, but also sets out an even closer cooperation between the two organizations while preserving the mandates and responsibilities of other United Nations organizations and subsidiary organs and agencies in the field of migration.

Migration is at the heart of the new global political landscape and its social and economic dynamics.  At a time of growing levels of migration within and across borders, a closer legal and working relationship between the United Nations and IOM is needed more than ever.

The Secretary-General trusts that the relationship agreement will contribute to a more effective global response to the challenges posed by large and sudden population movements.  It will help to strengthen the support provided by the United Nations system to Member States in implementing the migration-related elements of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The Secretary-General  conveys sincere thanks to Mr. William Lacy Swing, the Director General of IOM, for his efforts and cooperation in making the relationship agreement a reality. The Secretary-General looks forward to signing the agreement on 19 September 2016 on the occasion of the UN Summit for Refugees and Migrants.