Secretary-General's comments upon signing ball which will be auctioned for the benefit of families of deceased UN staff members

SG: Ladies and gentlemen. Thank you very much, Mr. [IOC] President [Jacques Rogge] for signing this ball. I have already signed this ball. This ball is going to be auctioned by Princess Haya, who is working as United Nations Messenger of Peace. [We are working with to] establish a fund which will support the families of deceased United Nations national [personnel.]. We have so many United Nations [personnel] , international or national who are unfortunately [killed as they perform their official duties for UN humanitarian and peace operations in war-torn places throughout the world.] They need your help and this ball when it will be auctioned, will be used for the benefit and well-being of the [families of] deceased United Nations [national personnel]. You will be hearing more about the fund and how to contribute.] Thank you very much.

NOTE: The ball that the SG showed at the Olympic Congress this morning is a street football made from, paper and wrapped up in plastic bags and tied up with strings from the slums of Nairobi. Kenya.

The ball, which has been signed by the Secretary-General and Dr. Rogge will be auctioned at a fundraising event to be hosted by HRH Princess Haya for the benefit of relatives of local UN staff members that were killed while working for the UN ideals. Details are still being worked out.