Assembly President calls for unity in protecting planet on Earth Day
UN news release, 22 April 2009
NEW YORK, USA: As the UN General Assembly officially designated 22 April as International Mother Earth Day, its president called on States to “cooperate in a spirit of global partnership to conserve, protect and restore the health and integrity of the Earth’s ecosystems.” General Assembly President Miguel D’Escoto emphasized the role of indigenous communities in environmental management and development because of their traditional knowledge and practices. “States should recognize and duly support their identity, culture and interests and enable the effective participation of indigenous peoples in the achievement of sustainable development,” he said. Read the news release … Read the full statement …
