4 August 2008: In an address to the Joint Session of the
Mexican Senate and Chamber of Deputies, UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon,
noted their pivotal role in bridging the local and global, highlighting the
three inter-related challenges faced by the world today, namely, a climate
crisis, a food crisis, and an emerging development emergency.

He stressed that the impacts of climate change are already
occurring, including in Mexico, and welcomed the country’s efforts in
addressing this challenge, in particular in reforming its energy sector. Noting
progress achieved by the agreement on the Bali Roadmap and the expectations
generated by Mexico’s ‘Green Fund’ proposal, he called for: concrete steps in
Poznan, Poland, in December 2008; a fully financed and operational Adaptation
Fund; and enlightened leadership, based on the principle of common but differentiated
responsibilities. On the food crisis, he noted steps taken by Mexico to address
short and long-terms needs, and outlined measures he has called world leaders
to take, including the successful conclusion of the Doha Round of negotiations.
He stressed that the climate and food crises hinder efforts towards achieving
the Millennium Development Goals (MDG), and commended Mexico for setting ‘MDG
plus’ targets. He concluded by underscoring Mexico’s contribution to the UN
budget and its active role in the international arena, and called for
furthering its collaboration with the UN and achieving their shared goals. [Address
to the Joint Session]