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Interregional Seminar and Symposium on Annex IVOpening Ceremony Message from H.E. Dr. Theo-Ben GurirabPresident of the fifty-fourth session of the United Nations General Assembly, To the Interregional Seminar and Symposium on International Norms and Standards Relating to Disability (Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China, 13-17 December 1999) I send heartfelt congratulations to the organizers of this Interregional Seminar and Symposium on International Norms and Standards relating to Disability. I also commend the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China, and the University of Hong Kong for taking on this significant challenge that we will continue to face in the new Millennium, that of making our societies truly accessible, caring and inclusive for all, regardless of disabilities. United Nations concern for and involvement with issues related to the advancement of person with disabilities is rooted in the founding principles of the Organization. The commitment of the international community to promoting the rights of persons with disabilities is embodied in all the major international human rights instruments. This Interregional Seminar and Symposium on International Norms and Standards relating to Disability is therefore a welcome, innovative and unique undertaking to translate the commitment of the international community into concrete policies, strategies and programmes aimed at furthering equalization of opportunities by, for and with persons with disabilities. I wish to congratulate every participant for personal dedication to this important initiative. Your promotion of awareness and building of national capacities to implement international norms and practices, focusing on empowerment of persons with disabilities and thereby enabling them to contribute to their communities, is laudable. Let me extend my sincere wishes for the success of your meeting. |
