Ambassador Néstor Osorio of Colombia was elected to serve as President of the Economic and Social Council on 28 January. DESA’s Under-Secretary-General Wu Hongbo thanked the outgoing President, Miloš Koterec and congratulated Mr. Osorio on his new role, stating that the Colombian’s leadership came during a period of transition crucial for the future of the planet.
Addressing the event at UN Headquarters in New York, Mr. Wu further stated, “As we chart a course towards sustainable development, the transition that lies ahead of us is not optional, but is inevitable. Our planet simply cannot sustain nine billion inhabitants aspiring for higher standards of living, if we remain entrenched in our unsustainable consumption.”
Citing that 2013 would be “a very important year” for the Council with regards to development issues, Mr. Wu said, “we are now moving from the collection of proposals and ideas, towards important negotiations. I am confident that His Excellency Mr. Osorio will use his leadership so that ECOSOC takes full advantage of these opportunities.”
The newly elected ECOSOC President also took the stage underscoring the important work for the Council moving forward. “Maintaining an intense commitment to the Rio+20 follow-up work is surely a crucial part of walking the talk we had in Rio. Another involves remaking the Council a more effective body – a major and constructive actor on the global stage,” Ambassador Osorio said, also outlining concrete proposals for reform.
“The ECOSOC plays a crucial role in the pursuit of our goal of making the world a better place. So today I will address the task that has been entrusted to me with the utmost commitment and spirit of cooperation and respect. I am sure I will count on the full support of all of you with the goal of continuing working together to build a better future and prosperity for future generations,” he concluded.
For more information:
UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
President of ECOSOC, H.E. Mr. Néstor Osorio
Statement by the President of ECOSOC, H.E. Mr. Néstor Osorio
Statement by DESA’s Under-Secretary-General Wu Hongbo at Handover Ceremony of ECOSOC Presidency
