"As the economy of ASEAN continues to grow in recent years, I think it is time for you to develop a global world. The UN is ready to work closely with ASEAN in facing global challenges such as climate change, food and energy security and human rights protection," Ban said on a press conference after attending the 4th ASEAN-UN Summit earlier in the morning.
On his speech, Ban also expressed optimism that ASEAN could realize its mission of a single community in 2015.
"With strong relations among member states, strong political will and adequate resources, I think there is a chance that ASEAN can realize its target of becoming a single community by 2015," he said.
Earlier in the day, Ban Ki Moon at a ceremony in the Bali International Convention Center (BICC) in Nusa Dua, Bali presented an award for Indonesia called "Global Champion of Disaster Risk Reduction" The award was given to President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on behalf of the Indonesian people.
President Yudhoyono said the Global Champion of Disaster Risk Reduction award was a recognition of the determination and hard work of all Indonesians in responding to the challenges of natural disasters.
According to the president, Indonesia was the most vulnerable country in natural disasters, and therefore coping with disasters has become deeply implanted in the national mindset.
After receiving the award from the UN chief, President Yudhoyono asserted that Indonesia would continually strive to minimize the impact of any disaster.
The president expressed hope that Indonesia would continue to do its best and develop cooperation with the United Nations.
The ceremony was attended by among others Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Djoko Suyanto, Coordinating Minister for People`s Welfare Agung Laksono, and Coordinating Minister for Economy Hatta Rajasa, Ban Ki-Moon said President Yudhoyono deserved the Global Champion of Disaster Risk Reduction award because of his outstanding leadership. (*)
Editor: Ruslan Burhani
Copyright © ANTARA 2011
