Passage 2

I am honored to speak as the host of the conference that will help us map out a sustainable future. The theme of this conference is "People, Planet, Prosperity". The issues that delegates will present and debate over the next two and a half days concern all of us here, as we seek to ensure that economic growth can develop hand in hand with social progress and protection of our natural environment. There is a widespread concern in all sectors of the global society for the sustainability of our current way of living. //
    Many nations respond with a high level of commitment to achieving positive results. Governments, both at the city and national levels, obviously have a pivotal role to play in implementing the principles of sustainable development. It is equally essential for people and organizations outside governments, including the business sector, to also play a leading role in pushing towards more sustainable practices and lifestyles. Let us act according to the principle of "thinking globally and acting locally", and work hard to make our cities better for future generations.