Kofi Annan Addresses UNA-UK in London
In an historic speech in January 2006 at Central Hall Westminster, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan delivered a wide-ranging address under UNA-UK auspices to an audience of UNA-UK members, diplomats and civil society. Speaking of statesmanship and confidence-rebuilding the Secretary-General outlined his vision of a UN capable of dealing with today's crises.
In a question and answer session that followed, Mr Annan was asked to reflect on his term as Secretary-General. “You cannot do this kind of job for as long as I have done in the world we live in and not have regrets,” he replied. “I do have regrets. I regret that I was unable to breach the divisions amongst member States over the Iraq war. The divisions are still there. They are healing, but I was really deeply disappointed that I could not help bridge the differences,” he added.
The event commemorated the 60th anniversary of the first meeting of the UN General Assembly, which was itself held in Central Hall Westminster in January 1946.
Lord Hannay of Chiswick, Chair of UNA-UK, opened the event. The then Foreign Secretary Jack Straw also shared his fond memories of his active involvement in UNA as a student, and warmly introduced the Secretary-General.
Commenting after the occasion, UNA-UK Executive Director Sam Daws said, "UNA-UK is delighted to have hosted this major policy speech by UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan. The Secretary-General gave a frank account of progress achieved to date on UN reform and the main obstacles to success. His answers to questions from the audience - especially his assessment of his time in office - were wonderfully candid, and served as a reminder of his warmth, commitment and contribution to the aims of the United Nations."
Read more about this topic: United Nations Association UK
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