COP22: Ban Ki-moon Expresses “Deep Admiration” for HM the King

Marrakech 15/11/2016 (MAP) – Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-Moon, expressed, on Tuesday, his deep admiration and respect for HM King Mohammed VI, His Government and the Moroccan people.”

The UN Chief also expressed his “gratitude” following the decision of the Sovereign to host the 22nd Conference of the Parties (COP 22) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.

“Throughout my tenure as the chief of the United Nations, I have worked closely with HM the King and I look forward to meet the Sovereign,” he added at a press conference on the sidelines of the COP22.

Ban Ki-moon underlined “the crucial importance of the COP22, whose mission is to ensure that the world is united while facing the challenges of climate change,” adding that UN member states showed “great enthusiasm and passion.”

“This is the manifestation of the leadership of the Kingdom of Morocco at this COP22,” he noted.

“Morocco is an important member of the United Nations, not only in Africa and the region of North Africa and the Middle East, but within the concert of nations,” the UNSG pointed out, hailing Morocco’s contribution to international peace and security.

“The Kingdom has always set an example through its democratic institutions and its action for sustainable development by being at the forefront of efforts to tackle the challenges of climate change,” he said.

“I sincerely hope that here in Marrakech we will make another passionate commitment for a better world for all, and I am counting in this respect on the leadership and orientations of His Majesty The King in this area,” he added.

Some 70 heads of state and government will take part in the COP 22.

The COP 22 is an opportunity to debate and discuss several issues relating in particular to agriculture, food security, energy, industry, transport and water.

The event is taking place in Bab Ighli village, which extends over an area of nearly 300,000 m2.

Around 20,000 delegates from 196 countries are gathering at the UN Climate Change Conference.