Global Model United Nations

Mr. Akasaka
Distinguished Chairpersons
Ladies and Gentlemen
Dear Friends:

It is a great pleasure to be with you as we close this first-ever Global Model United Nations, organized by and at the United Nations.

Allow me, first of all, to thank our many partners and sponsors. Without their contributions, this event would not have been possible. The involvement of our Host Country is another demonstration of our close relationship, and we are grateful for Switzerland’s valuable support for future United Nations generations. I should also like to express my sincere appreciation to Mr. Akasaka, whose strong personal engagement has been instrumental in the organization of this Model United Nations. The success of this event is a credit to him and his team.

It is very appropriate that you have come together for the first Global Model United Nations – the newest of all United Nations simulations – here at the Palais des Nations, which is the oldest of the United Nations’ buildings. The first stone of the Palais was laid 80 years ago – in September 1929. I trust that the past three days have now also given you a strong foundation for a continued engagement with the United Nations. Through your contributions, you link the past and the future of the Organization. You connect the vision of the founding fathers, with the views and concerns of today and tomorrow. And that is how we can shape a better world for all.

Just as our past and future are connected, so the challenges before us are closely linked. This has come across clearly in your discussions in the different committees and in the plenary. Achieving the Millennium Development Goals requires a comprehensive, concerted effort, across all areas of our work.

I particularly appreciate that you have given emphasis to the different dimensions of disarmament. It is an important aspect of our efforts to advance development, which is not always integrated fully or effectively in these debates. Today, countries around the world spend over 1,4 trillion dollars on their militaries and on arms. By comparison, less than 200 million dollars go towards overseas development assistance. There is a clear need for a better balance. This is why the Secretary-General has made disarmament a priority, and I am glad that you have heeded his call here. I encourage you to follow the United Nations’ WeMustDisarm campaign on Twitter, Facebook and MySpace.

I know that you have debated the negative impact of the economic and financial crisis on the resources and focus available for the MDGs, climate change and the multitude of other challenges before us. The best response is to do exactly what you have been doing: when you see that attention fades, you redouble your efforts. You do not become disheartened or disappointed – it gives you drive and determination to ensure that the world does not lose sight of the plight of the “bottom billion”.

Helping to bring fellow human beings out of abject poverty is an integral part of an effective response to the crisis – not something that we can turn our attention to at a later stage. By providing opportunities for all to fulfil their potential, we enable them to contribute to our global common good.

The Palais des Nations also reminds us that multilateral results are built over time. They require patience and persistence, conviction and commitment. And a healthy dose of optimism, which – I am sure you will agree now – is essential for any diplomat. The multilateral process may be long – indeed, at times it may be disenchantingly slow. But, the results have unique legitimacy as they are the outcome of the international community’s collective efforts – and as such, they are long-lasting.

As you have now experienced, multilateral diplomacy is all about exchange. You have brought energy and enthusiasm. And I know that you take home new knowledge, insights and skills, and most importantly, new friendships. I hope that the main one will be the friendship with this Organization – and that this friendship will also be long-lasting. I think this is a highly rewarding exchange for us all.

In his video message to you at the opening, the Secretary-General predicted that many of you would return as Ambassadors to the United Nations. I think that already, you are Ambassadors for the United Nations. It is a privileged role, with significant responsibility. It is my hope that wherever you go, you will raise awareness of what the United Nations is doing – and help to correct misunderstandings and misperceptions when you encounter them. And where you see that we could do more, we will rely on you to work with us to do better.

The United Nations is both a unique and powerful instrument. But, it needs the support of all people to be able to realize its full potential and make a real difference. And I know that with talented, dedicated, creative and compassionate young leaders and global citizens like you, we will be leaving it in the best of hands.

I wish you all the best of luck in your future endeavours – and I look forward to seeing you back here soon.

Thank you very much.