Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General on the postponement of the Secretary-General's trip to Los Angeles

Many world leaders are coming to New York in advance of the G-20 Summit in Washington, D.C. this weekend and also to attend the High-Level meeting at United Nations Headquarters. These leaders have requested urgent consultations with the Secretary-General to discuss pressing and long-term strategies to address the financial crisis and other important issues of immediate concern.

The Secretary-General has spoken to the Governor of California, the Mayor of Los Angeles, the President of UNA-USA and other distinguished figures from the academic and creative communities, to express his regrets. He deeply appreciates their graciousness and understanding.