In France, Ban and President Hollande discuss global issues including upcoming Paris climate talks
NEW YORK, 25 August 2015 / PRN Africa / — In Paris today, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met with the President of France, François Hollande. They discussed a range of issues, including the climate change conference, which is due to start in December (COP-21) in the French capital. They also focused on the next steps to be taken to ensure an ambitious outcome for addressing the climate issue.
Both men discussed the different ways of engaging Heads of State and Governments on the issue of climate change. This includes discussions on the margins of the 70th session of the General Assembly in New York in September. Meetings involving leaders were also indicated in a read-out.
They agreed on the importance of drawing attention to the climate finance package for The meeting of States Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP-21) “as early as possible.” For example, this could be at the meeting of Finance Ministers in Lima in October. Meanwhile, operationalizing the Green Climate Fund is crucial. Reaching out to all Member States is necessary to further accelerate momentum in the coming months and tackle the global climate issue.
Framework for COP 21
The Secretary-General and the French President also discussed a number of peace and security issues. These included the situations in Ukraine, Syria, Libya, and the Middle East Peace Process.
While they noted progress towards elections and restoring security in the Central African Republic, Mr. Ban stressed his resolve and commitment. He emphasized the need to address issues of misconduct, including sexual exploitation and abuse, by UN peacekeepers.
In the aftermath of his visit to Nigeria, the Secretary-General and President Hollande also discussed the threat of Boko Haram across the region. Additionally, they recognized the need to address violent extremism everywhere. This is part of global issues, akin to the pressing climate issue.
Sources:
United Nations. (2015, August 25). Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. François Hollande, President of the French Republic [Press release]. Distributed via PRN Africa.
United Nations News. (2015, August 25). In France, Ban and President Hollande discuss global issues including upcoming Paris climate talks. United Nations Sustainable Development Blog.
