“A call for joint action to achieve the SDGs: Advancing integrated solutions to accelerate change”

Opening remarks at UNEA/UNEA Ministerial meeting on stakeholder action

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Opening remarks by Mr. Mogens Lykketoft, President of the 70th session of the UN General Assembly, at the UNEA/UNEP Ministerial meeting on stakeholder action: 

 

“A call for joint action to achieve the SDGs:  Advancing integrated solutions to accelerate change” 

Saturday, 26 September 2015

 

His Excellency Mr Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj, President of Mongolia;

His Excellency Mr Oh Joon, President of ECOSOC;

Her Excellency Ms. Oyun Sanjaasuren, President of UNEA;

Mr Moderator, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,  good morning.

 

Yesterday, we witnessed an historic moment when 193 members of this great Organisation adopted the 2030 Agenda.

This revolutionary Agenda marks the beginning of a new chapter in global efforts to eradicate poverty and to create a world of shared prosperity, peace, sustainability and dignity for all.

The inclusive, transparent and bottom-up approach to formulating this Agenda was truly unique. Today’s Ministerial and Stakeholders Action Platform is a continuation of that approach, providing an opportunity for exchanges on solution-oriented, multi-stakeholder initiatives to accelerate the implementation of SDGs.

The challenges ahead of us are tremendous. We know that governments must play a leading role in making change happen. But without significant engagement from a multitude of actors, government action will simply not be enough.

Platforms such as this one therefore can be fantastic catalysts for change. They can help build capacities for development and innovations in green technologies. They can help promote sustainable consumption and production; build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions; assist with the development of climate-friendly policies and strategies at all levels.

It is crucial, however, that these platforms avoid some of the siloed approaches of the past and address the complexities and cross-cutting nature of sustainable development challenges.

During the year ahead, as President of the General Assembly, I will do my utmost to support member states to move from commitments to action. This includes the convening of high level thematic events to mobilize action across the three main pillars of the UN in support of the SDGs.

The first of these, in April 2016, will focus on securing speedy implementation of commitments relating to the SDGs, climate change and related financing..

The participation and engagement of multiple stakeholders, including parliaments, local governments, CSOs, investors and the private sector, will be central. We must inspire diverse groups to form partnerships and broad alliances in support of all of the SDGs.

The UN system can also be a key actor in such partnerships. This year, I will ensure that the General Assembly is regularly briefed on how the UN system, including its agencies and funds, are adapting and contributing to the new Agenda. An adequately resourced, relevant, coherent, efficient and effective UN development system can greatly assist with accelerating implementation.

Ladies and gentlemen, realizing the SDGs will not be easy. In fact, if we manage to do this, we will have brought about a change on a par with that of the industrial revolution.

We have the know-how, the wealth and the technology, and now, with the 2030 Agenda, we have the vision. What we desperately need, however, is the determination and leadership to make change happen and the energy and innovation of partnerships.

The opportunities are endless. Your active engagement will be crucial.

Thank you.

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