Secretary-General's video message for World Knowledge Forum (16-18 October 2007)

I am delighted to send warm greetings to this eighth World Knowledge Forum. You have a full and important agenda before you, on issues of the greatest relevance to our times. They are issues that affect all of us who operate in the global arena, whether in the public or private sector.

How we develop talent and leadership? How do we best understand the relationship between security and prosperity? What are the global implications of an emerging Asia?

Knowledge-sharing endeavours such as yours are crucial to the work of the United Nations. Global problems demand global solutions, and increasingly, the world is turning to the United Nations. Our approaches need to be informed by the vision of both thinkers and practitioners –by leaders in every field, such as all of you.

You all have a role to play in building a more secure and prosperous world –because today, our world runs on knowledge more than any other resource. I hope you will be both creative and courageous in your thinking, and wish you all a most stimulating Forum.

Thank you very much.