SECRETARY-GENERAL PRAISES ROTARY INTERNATIONAL’S LEADERSHIP, DETERMINATION, GENEROSITY IN GLOBAL EFFORT TO ERADICATE POLIO

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message to Rotary International on polio eradication, airing today in San Diego, California:

Dear Rotarians,

For 22 years, you and your fellow Rotarians have dedicated your time and efforts to eradicating polio.  You have done so in the face of extraordinary challenges.  You have overcome financial shortfalls, conflict and lack of security.  You have conquered cultural barriers and lack of political will.

At every turn, in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, you have found creative solutions, in partnership with the World Health Organization, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  In this way, Rotarians have shown the world what can be achieved when civil society and the United Nations partner together.

Dear friends, when the last chapter on polio eradication is finally written, it will tell one of the most spectacular success stories in public health.  It will describe one of the world’s most remarkable partnerships.  And it will highlight your personal service to humanity.

Today, Rotary’s leadership is more critical than ever.  Your determination and generosity will drive us to the finish line in our race against polio.  I know you will go the distance.  And I will be with you every step of the way.

Thank you very much.

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