Page 360 - 100 Reflections that Crafted Geneva International_V-Petrovsky_private special edition

66.

MESSAGE OF MR. PETROVSKY
16
TO THE BUSINESS HUMANITARIAN FORUM

Geneva, 27 January 1999

F rom my perspective as the Director-General of the United Nations

Office at Geneva, the traditional center of humanitarian activities, I
can only echo the sentiments of the Secretary-General. I am
extremely pleased to welcome this initiative today which furthers the ever-
increasing and vital relationship between the UN and the private sector.

Our efforts are clearly complementary. The United Nations recognizes the
positive and crucial role that business and industry play in sustainable
development on our planet.

Moreover, the UN's attempts to combat the negative effects of globaliza-
tion - an increase in poverty and the expansion of global networks of the
antipode of civil society - corruption, organized crime and terrorists - promote
international ability and security, which in turn provides a more solid founda-
tion for investment. This serves all of our best interests.

The UN Office in Geneva stands ready to facilitate all necessary assistance
for your initiative. In short, our joint endeavors can only bring global peace and
well-being and I wish you all the best for a constructive and productive forum.

Thank you for your attention.

16 The statement by Mr. Petrovsky was delivered after having read the Statement from
the Secretary-General.

338