Statement

by Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon

on Kazakhstan’s Independence Day

His Excellency

Mr. Nursultan A. Nazarbayev

President of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Your Excellency,

It is my great pleasure to extend to you and to the Government and people of Kazakhstan my warmest congratulations on the occasion of the Independence Day.

In the face of global challenges, the United Nations is needed now more than ever. Our work is crucial across many areas of common concern, from peacekeeping and safeguarding human rights to building a more prosperous, equitable and sustainable world for all.

The United Nations is uniquely placed to mobilize the collective effort we will need for success. Working closely with Member States and all stakeholders, I am determined to strengthen the Organization so that it can serve more effectively as an agent of peace.

From combating climate change to redoubling our efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals, the challenges we face are increasingly those of collaboration rather than confrontation. AS we pursue this mission, it is heartening to know that the United Nations can count on the contributions, commitment and support of Kazakhstan.

Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.

                                  Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations

Date of issue: 2009-12-20