Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations, Honored at 2014 South-South Awards for Climate Change Endeavors

NEW YORK, Sept. 30, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon was honored last week during the South-South Awards for his indispensable role in addressing the global climate crisis. The annual South-South Awards recognize outstanding contributions from world leaders, senior United Nations officials and other icons in advancing sustainable development.

"I am deeply honored by South-South's decision to confer an award to me," said Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations. "South-South and Triangular Cooperation play a crucial role in advancing the global development agenda."

The Secretary-General was unable to attend, but expressed his gratitude through video and highlighted South-South's fundamental role in global progression. Several officials were called to the stage to present his recognition; however, Chef de Cabinet Susana Malcorra accepted the honor on his behalf.

Other world leaders lauded for their environmental initiatives included His Excellency Mr. Tuilaepa Aiono Sailele Malielagaoi, Prime Minister of Samoa, who was praised for his efforts around climate change in small island developing states. His Excellency Mr. Emomali Rahmon, President of Tajikistan, was acknowledged for his commitment to advancing international cooperation on water security.

CNBC News Anchor Amanda Drury served as the Mistress of Ceremonies while singer Rhonda Ross dazzled guests with eloquent renditions that embodied the heart and soul of her mother. Supporting comments were made by His Excellency Mr. Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda; His Excellency Ambassador John Ashe, President of the 68^th United Nations General Assembly; His Excellency Ambassador Francis Lorenzo, President of the South-South Awards; and Mr. Cai E'Sheng, Chairman of the SS-SCSD Asia-Pacific Committee. Ambassador Lorenzo noted, "In solidarity with the Secretary-General's call for a scaled-up response, we will continue to promote creative public-private synergies and new ideas that foster pioneering solutions to the climate change crisis."

The 4^th Annual South-South Awards Reception paid homage to notable figures and organizations that have made strides in climate change. The event strove to encourage action toward implementing adaptable, affordable and effective solutions.

The 2014 South-South Awards were hosted by the Permanent Mission of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Nations, the South-South Steering Committee for Sustainable Development, the International Organization for South-South Cooperation, The International Telecommunication Union, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the Permanent Mission of Grenada to the United Nations and South-South News.

For more information please visit: www.southsouthawards.com

Video - http://origin-qps.onstreammedia.com/origin/multivu_archive/PRNA/ENR/Package-for-ambassador.mp4

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SOURCE South-South Awards