H.E. Fatumanava Paolelei Luteru attended the gathering organized and hosted by The Friends of Europe, with Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on 3rd April 2014. The United Nations Secretary-General delivered an inspiring address on climate change and highlighted the global nature of this challenge.  He also spoke about individual responsibilities and the need for immediate action including a challenge to the EU to take the “lead” rather than waiting for others to do something.  To this end, Mr Ban Ki-moon also called for more financial resources from the donor community to ensure fast action on the ground.  The EU was challenged to contribute “generously and with foresight”.

The Secretary-General also highlighted the critical need for a “ … meaningful, robust, universal and legal climate agreement by 2015”.