Good afternoon, Ladies and Gentlemen. Thank you for this opportunity.
As you know, tonight I will fly back to Paris again to take part in the climate change conference.
I was very encouraged by what I saw and I heard during the opening days of COP21 – the Summit meeting. World leaders did precisely what they were meant to do: give strong impetus to the negotiations.
Almost all countries have submitted climate action plans, known as INDCs [Intended Nationally Determined Contributions]. Major economies have made significant commitments to cut emissions. Many developed countries have made new financial commitments to help poor and vulnerable countries adapt to climate impacts.
Philanthropists and entrepreneurs are making exciting new commitments and investments -- including efforts such as the Breakthrough Energy Coalition announced by Bill Gates.
Upon my return to Paris, I will participate in the COP 21 “Action Day”, which will showcase the tremendous number of climate partnerships and initiatives involving cities, and private sector and civil society.
In the global economy, the transition to a low-emissions future is well under way. In the negotiating room, there is still a lot of work to do. Key issues remain unresolved, and there is not much time left.
I continue to press developed countries to recognize their responsibility to take the lead, while urging developing countries to do more in line with their growing capabilities.
The world has gone too long without a universal climate agreement that includes all countries as part of the solution. We cannot delay any longer.
There is no perfect agreement. But our goal is clear: an agreement that truly addresses climate change, and puts the world on track for long-term prosperity, stability and peace. That is what the days ahead in Paris can and must deliver.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The refugee crisis and terrorism are also prominent in our minds at this time.
Much of the crisis stems from the conflict in Syria. The Vienna peace process has created new momentum. We are working to launch an initiative in early January that would involve both intra-Syrian political talks and a nationwide ceasefire.
Closed doors and discrimination are worsening the plight of forcibly displaced people across the world. I am especially concerned about misplaced suspicions about migrants and refugees, and widespread anti-Muslim discrimination and bigotry.
The world must also be united against terrorism. No grievances or cause can justify the atrocious violence we have seen in recent weeks.
The world’s response needs to be robust, and always within the rule of law and with respect for human rights. We cannot be ruled by fear.
I will soon present to the Member States of the United Nations a comprehensive Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism.
Finally, Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to make two personnel announcements.
As you know, my Chef de Cabinet Susana Malcorra has left the United Nations to take on new responsibilities as Foreign Minister of Argentina. I wish her well as we welcome her successor, Edmond Mulet, whom I was pleased to swear in yesterday.
Today, I am pleased to announce Mr. Mulet’s successor. I have selected Mr. El-Ghassim Wane of Mauritania as Assistant Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations. As a senior official of the African Union, he has been a close partner of the United Nations in addressing a wide range of peace and security challenges. I welcome the experience and expertise he brings to this new role.
As we enter the new year, implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development will be a top priority. I again commend the Member States for this major achievement, and I thank the two co-facilitators -- Ambassador David Donoghue of Ireland and Ambassador Macharia Kamau of Kenya -- for their contributions.
Today, I am pleased to announce that Dr. David Nabarro will serve as my Special Adviser on the 2030 Agenda. He is well known to you all for his work on a number of challenges, including food security and the emergency Ebola response. In his new role, he will galvanize action on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Agenda, deepen integration of climate commitments into the 2030 Agenda, and oversee special initiatives such as Every Woman Every Child.
I look forward to working closely with these distinguished public servants as we work to support Member States in translating their commitments into real improvements in the lives of the people we serve.
Thank you very much.