Distinguished Ministers,
Delegates,
Ladies and gentleman,
We are nearing the end of this eighteenth session. I was asked if I would be
delivering a Chair?s vision this morning. Rather than a Chair vision what I think
is needed is a common vision.
Building a common vision on the themes cycles is important as it can give us a
sense of purpose and of direction of how can CSD contribute to the themes under
review and more broadly speaking how can CSD help us transition to a
sustainable development path at all levels, from the bottom up and from up to
bottom.
Also, a common vision needs mechanisms that can help us achieve it. In the past
20 years we have built a slow and heavy machinery to implement sustainable
development. Yet, it is our sense that we are not maximizing the potential this
house could really contribute to each of our countries, communities and families.
During the last few days I have heard of many initiatives that are already
pinpointing what are the best practices that can be achieved on the 5 themes,
what are also those lessons learned and have also identified who does what best
and how to move forward.
In this sense, I invite all of you to propose what are the most critical issues
needed for a successful CSD 19. What is the big picture and strategy that can
shape the future outcome? I have requested some colleagues to help me in this
regard. I would give the floor to them and then will open the floor so that
everyone contributes to this important discussion. The result of this discussion
will also be included in the final draft of the Chair?s summary.
I thank you.
