Secretary-General's lecture at Ottawa Congress center (in English and French)

Abstract

In his lecture at the Ottawa Congress Center on 22 November 1995, United Nations Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali expressed deep appreciation for Canada's unwavering support and understanding of the UN's mission. He highlighted that while only 20% of the UN's work involves peacekeeping, the majority focuses on human rights, sustainable development, international law, and democratization. Boutros-Ghali praised Canada's leadership, citing Prime Minister Jean Chrétien and Foreign Minister André Ouellet's recent affirmations of the UN's role in promoting peace, justice, and the rule of law. He emphasized the UN's successes in peacekeeping missions, disease eradication, and refugee support, underscoring the importance of global cooperation to address transnational challenges like crime, environmental sustainability, and conflict resolution.