We must bring a message of solidarity, of mutual respect and, above all, of hope. Business cannot afford to be seen as the problem.

No one is born a good citizen or a good democrat or a good leader; it takes time and education.

You may have noticed over the years that the UN became a bit more media-friendly, a bit more open to the media than in the past.

Sometimes I walk into a situation and I know somebody is going to provoke me - not maybe, I know he will provoke me - I know he will provoke me! And there are times when I simply refuse to be provoked. And the other times you have to use that superior knowledge to carry on at work without distraction, and don't allow yourself to be distracted. I laugh a lot inside and outside, and at myself sometimes.

The UN doesn't work in a vacuum.

Let us remember the large numbers of citizens who, day in and day out, through acts of volunteerism large and small, bring hope to so many of the world's disadvantaged. Let us ensure that this wonderful resource, available in abundance to every nation, is recognized and supported as it works towards a more prosperous and peaceful world.

The global work of the United Nations is not without reason compared to that of a family - striving for a common goal in concert with all members for a better future.