General Assembly takes place during "time of turmoil": UN chief
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UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
This year's session of the General Assembly takes place against the backdrop of widespread violence linked to intolerance.
That's what UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said on Wednesday during a press conference on the 67th session of the General Assembly.
Mr. Ban said this year's General Debate will be among the busiest ever, reflecting what he called a "time of turmoil and transition."
"The opening of this new session takes place against a backdrop of widespread violence linked to intolerance. I once again condemn those who deliberately provoke others with hatred and bigotry. I also join with others in speaking out against those who, in response to such provocations, fan those flames further still. It is time for calm, restraint and responsible political and community leadership."
Duration: 28"
Mr. Ban said that as of Wednesday, 123 Heads of State and Government level or high-level delegations, Foreign Ministers or Deputy Prime Ministers, were expected to participate in the General Debate.
