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WSSD: High Level Dialogue on the Future
of Multilateralism. The Future of Multilateralism, A
unique platform for dialogue among Heads of State, United
Nations, World Bank and World Trade Organisation
The President of South Africa, President Thabo Mbeki
will host a high level dialogue on the Future of Multilateralism,
bringing together Heads of State, from developed and
developing countries, leaders of the United Nations,
The World Bank and the World Trade Organization.
The focus of the event will be on how to effectively
implement the sustainable development agenda emerging
from WSSD as a culmination of the multilateral commitments
adopted in previous global Summits.
The high level dialogue , takes place on Tuesday, September
3, 18:00- 20:10 followed by a press conference at the
Sandton Convention Centre , and will be addressed by
a head- panel featuring South African President Thabo
Mbeki, United Nations Secretary General, Kofi Annan,
World Bank (WB) President James D. Wolfensohn, Mexican
President, Vicente Fox, and the Director General of
the WTO , Supachai Panitchpakdi as well as twenty five
Heads.
According to South African President Thabo Mbeki the
event represents, "A key platform to articulate
the vision beyond Johannesburg of how multi-lateralism
plays a vital role in our quest for sustainable development."
The United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
reflected a remarkable convergence of views on the challenges
facing the world as we enter the third millennium. They
call for a more equitable world economy, where all countries
have a fair chance to compete, and where those who have
more will do more for those who have less.
Doha launched a new round of trade negotiations, recognizing
the importance to the global economy of stimulating
trade and development. The Monterrey International Conference
laid the basis for a new partnership based on mutual
accountability between developed and developing nations.
Through this process the global community has agreed
on basic principles and objectives. A culmination of
this cycle - underway at the WSSD - would be the support
of this multilateral high level that embraces this spirit
of change and can be translated into specific action.
BACKGROUND BRIEFING
The South African Minister of Finance, Mr. Trevor Manuel
will hold a background media briefing on Sunday 1 September
at 18h00 at the Sandton Convention Centre to outline
amongst others the aims and objectives of the dialogue.
The South African Government Communications System
will further outline media logistics for the high level
event.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Bheki Khumalo : Presidency Spokesperson 083 256 9133
Issued by GCIS
31 August 2002
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