UN & business, Global Compact

I welcome this opportunity to introduce the proposed programme budget for 2020.

You are all aware of the diverse and enormous challenges we face at this time, from climate change to multiplying conflicts, from increasing inequality to rising intolerance. People’s expectations of our Organization are profound.

Mr. President,
Heads of State and Government,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
It is wonderful to be again together in New York.
 
This city is a wonderful city, a wonderful inspiration for us all.
 
And I think if there is a privilege to be Secretary-General of the United Nations, [it] is to be able to work in New York.
 

I am very pleased to be with you for the opening of the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
 
Let me begin by warmly congratulating His Excellency Professor Tijjani Muhammad-Bande of Nigeria on his election as General Assembly President.
 
As Nigeria’s Permanent Representative here in New York, Professor Bande brings years of United Nations experience to his role.