UN chief calls for agreement from Paris conference that "truly addresses climate change"

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on Thursday in New York called for an agreement from the ongoing United Nations Conference on Climate Change held near Paris that "truly addresses climate change."

The 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference, also known as COP 21, is being held in Le Bourget, France, from Nov. 30-Dec .11. It will be the 21st yearly session of the Conference of the Parties to the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

"In the global economy, the transition to a low-emissions future is well under way. In the negotiating room, there is still a lot of work to do," said Ban.

He returned from Paris to speak to the press at the UN headquarters in New York Thursday and would fly back Paris Thursday night to attend the climate change conference.

"Key issues remain unresolved, and there is not much time left," he said. "I continue to press developed countries to recognize their responsibility to take the lead, while urging developing countries to do more in line with their growing capabilities."

"There is no perfect agreement. But our goal is clear: an agreement that truly addresses climate change, and puts the world on track for long-term prosperity, stability and peace. That is what the days ahead in Paris can and must deliver," said Ban.

Secretary-General Ban also talked about the refugee crisis and terrorism.

"Much of the crisis stems from the conflict in Syria," he said. "We are working to launch an initiative in early January that would involve both intra-Syrian political talks and a nationwide ceasefire."

"Closed doors and discrimination are worsening the plight of forcibly displaced people across the world. I am especially concerned about misplaced suspicions about migrants and refugees, and widespread anti-Muslim discrimination and bigotry."

He urged the world to be united against terrorism. No grievances or cause can justify the atrocious violence in recent weeks, said Ban.

He said he would soon present to the Member States of the United Nations a comprehensive Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism.

Upon his return to Paris, Ban will participate in the COP 21 "Action Day," which will showcase the tremendous number of climate partnerships and initiatives involving cities, and the private sector and civil society.

Source: Xinhua