U N I T E D   N A T I O N S          N A T I O N S   U N I E S

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL

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MESSAGE TO SILK ROAD NGO COOPERATION NETWORK

Beijing, 21 November 2017

        It is a pleasure to greet the Silk Road NGO Cooperation Network.

        Earlier this year, I attended the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing and learned about its immense potential to stitch countries together in networks of trade and mutual gain.

        There are clear synergies between the Belt and Road Initiative and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the world's agreed blueprint for building a future of peace and prosperity for all on a healthy planet. Both frameworks strive to create opportunities, global public goods and win-win cooperation, and both aim to deepen connectivity across countries and regions.

        Civil society groups have a crucial role to play in implementing these plans. With their incomparable presence in communities and at the grass roots, non-governmental organizations are well-placed to serve as a bridge between people and to hold governments accountable for results. It is crucial that they have the space and freedom to make their contributions.

        The United Nations looks forward to working with all partners in achieving sustainable and inclusive development, combating climate change, and fulfilling our shared commitment to leave no one behind. I wish the NGO Cooperation Network every success in its important work.