United Nations Radio

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is calling for a stronger, more inclusive multilateralism.

In remarks to the Governing Body of the International Labour Organization in Geneva Wednesday, the secretary-general recalled his plea to last weekend's Summit of the Group of 20 countries in Washington D.C "to make sure that all countries, including those not represented at the Summit, are part of efforts to shape international economic governance and decision-making."

He calls for a "multilateralism that is fair, flexible and responsive."

"I also stressed that the crisis, devastating as it is, offers an excellent opportunity to promote green economic development. Renewable energy offers tremendous potential for growth. By investing in wind, solar, geothermal and other renewable resources, countries can improve their energy security and spur economic development at the same time. The emerging green economy should be an important part of any stimulus plan arising from the current situation."

Secretary-General Ban says the way forward should include a focus on labour-intensive projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help communities adapt to global warming, adding that "the transition to a low-carbon economy can create millions of jobs."

This is Donn Bobb reporting for United Nations Radio.

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