Page 434 - 100 Reflections that Crafted Geneva International_V-Petrovsky_private special edition

100 Reflections that Crafted Geneva International

echoes the UN approach for meeting the challenges of globalization. The
Secretary-General, Mr. Kofi Annan, in his opening this week of the High-level
meeting on the Global Compact has stated that: “What is necessary is to ensure
that the global market is embedded in broadly-shared values and practices that
retreat global social needs, and that all the world's people share the benefits of
globalization.”

The name of the galley “La Liberté”, has very symbolic meaning. It
reminds us - through the example of the region of Lac Léman - that society as a
whole can benefit tremendously from liberty, equality and fraternity when
powers reside in the people and when freedom is accompanied by social
justice. Indeed, this is the best illustration of the UN's promotion of higher
standards of living, full employment and the creation of conditions for
economic and social progress. It continues to remain the top priority of the
United Nations today, as it was in the time of the signing of the UN Charter.

Lastly, it is not surprising that an event such as this evening's, which closely
reflects the values that are dear to the United Nations, would be sponsored by
our host country Switzerland, which has always been well-known for its strong
support of multilateralism active participant in many UN programmes today.

I would like once again, to congratulate all those who have been involved
with this project.

Thank you very much. Merci beacoup.

412