Mayor Augusto Barrera, Queridos amigos, [Dear friends,]

Thank you so much for holding this wonderful ceremony. I am grateful for this great honour ? and for the hospitality of all the officials and citizens who have welcomed me to Quito.

You are all so warm, I feel like I have been drinking a delicious canelazo [hot rum drink famous in Ecuador].

This is my first visit here and I only arrived last night but I can already say: adoro Ecuador.

Quito is a United Nations World Heritage Site so we are well aware of your rich treasures. This city has more than a proud history - Quito has an important present role. You are proving the value of preserving and protecting natural and cultural treasures. This is important to sustainable development –one of my priorities as Secretary-General.

Dear Quiteños, I thank you very much. I have to leave Ecuador tonight, but Quito will always have a special place in my heart.

Muchas gracias.