United Nations Radio

"Stay focused...stay committed... come to Copenhagen and seal a deal."

Ban Ki-moon

That's the charge UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon gave to the 53-member Commonwealth heads of government, Friday, in Port of Spain, Trinidad. But, he wants a deal that is "ambitious ...a deal that is equitable....a deal that satisfies the demands of science."

The Secretary-General warns the leaders that "we cannot afford to fail [as] the costs are too great." He points to increased human suffering, higher economic losses, opportunities squandered in terms of productivity, global competitiveness and political stability.

Mr. Ban says the longer "we wait, the worse it will be." And he adds that is why we must push on two levels.

The Secretary-General says there's need for an agreement that is as ambitious as possible to cut greenhouse gas emissions and protect the most vulnerable. He stresses that every country is needed on board. But he warns that harmonizing these two will not be easy. Adding that it is essential, and it will demand their leadership.

Secretary-General Ban concludes that an agreement is within reach, the momentum is strong - and continues to grow."

Donn Bobb, United Nations Radio
(duration: 1'05")