International Trade Centre Crucial in Fostering Economic Growth,

Ending Poverty, Secretary-General Tells Forum

 

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message at an event marking the fiftieth anniversary of the International Trade Centre, in New York today:

Executive Director Arancha González, ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to join you in marking the fiftieth anniversary of the International Trade Centre (ITC).

Over the past half century, the ITC team and its partners have helped advance sustainable growth and improve economic opportunities for people around the world.  The ITC has enabled small- and medium-sized enterprises in developing countries to boost exports by enhancing the competitiveness of their goods and services, and connecting them to global value chains.  Through these efforts, the ITC has helped in our common efforts to meet the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

As we now accelerate our work to achieve the MDGs and formulate a post-2015 development agenda, the ITC will continue to be crucial in fostering inclusive economic growth and poverty eradication through trade.

Once again, my profound congratulations on this milestone — and thank you for all you do to advance global development, promote equitable growth and improve people’s lives around the world.

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For information media • not an official record