Director-General's remarks at the ‘Vigne des Nations’ reception organized by the State Council of the Republic and Canton of Geneva

‘Vigne des Nations’ reception organized by the State Council of the Republic and Canton of Geneva

Thursday, 9 October 2025 at 12.15 p.m.
Delegates Restaurant, Palais des Nations

Your Excellency, Mr. Thierry Apothéloz, [President of The State Council of the canton of Geneva]
Your Excellency, Ms. Fontanet [State councilor of the canton of Geneva] 
Excellencies,
Dear friends and colleagues,

It is a great pleasure to welcome you at the Palais des Nations for this significant ceremony. On behalf of the United Nations family in Geneva, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Republic and Canton of Geneva for this generous and symbolic tribute.

In 1995, the inaugural year of the “Vigne des Nations”, the Republic and Canton of Geneva honoured the United Nations on its 50th anniversary. The UN received this distinction again in 2012, and today we have the privilege of being honoured once more, as the Organization celebrates its 80th anniversary.

Since its creation, the “Vigne des Nations” has each year recognized an organization from International Geneva whose work strengthens this city’s unique role in advancing multilateral cooperation. This tradition is a testament to the enduring ties between Geneva and the international community.

I am particularly proud to receive the 2024 vintage of the “Vigne des Nations” on behalf of the United Nations. Eighty years ago, the United Nations was born out of a vision for peace, cooperation, and shared humanity, a forum where Member States could pursue dialogue and collective action. Today, these founding values remain as vital as ever.  

Yet despite their continued relevance, the world faces an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape, including rising conflicts, accelerating climate crises, deepening inequalities and emerging technological risks. At such a time, global cooperation is being tested like never before. The Pact for the Future, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the UN80 initiative demonstrate the determination of world leaders to build a United Nations that is stronger, more inclusive, and more effective.

Geneva itself reflects this spirit of cooperation. Here, Member States, international organizations, civil society, academia and the private sector come together to address global challenges, foster dialogue, and build solutions. Geneva’s unique ecosystem, its history of neutrality, and deep commitment to multilateralism, make this city an indispensable hub for global cooperation. The steadfast support and friendship of the Canton of Geneva, as well as the City and Federal authorities, have been essential to this mission.

We are especially grateful to receive a symbolic vine, which, along with a few rows of vineyard, will be planted in the Ariana Park this spring. More than a gift, this vine will be a living emblem of our shared commitment to nurturing peace, sustainability, and international solidarity. It stands as reminder of our shared roots and the future we are cultivating together for generations to come.

Allow me once again to thank the Republic and Canton of Geneva and the entire Geneva community for this tribute. The United Nations family is proud to be part of International Geneva, and we look forward to continuing our work together in the spirit of peace and cooperation.

Thank you.