Mariano Rajoy praises Ban Ki-moon's achievements at head of United Nations

United Nations Secretariat, New York (United States)

At the ceremony, held at the United Nations Secretariat, Mariano Rajoy expressed his pride at awarding one of the more prestigious Spanish decorations - the Collar of the Order of Civil Merit - to "such an extraordinary man" as Ban Ki-moon.

Among the milestones of his 10-year mandate heading up the United Nations, the President of the Government mentioned the adoption of the 2030 Agenda, the signing of the Climate Change Convention and the creation of UN Women. He also claimed that, under his leadership, "the largest international organisation in the world has been reformed, turning it into a more efficient institution".

The President of the Government highlighted that the priorities of Ban Ki-moon at the United Nations have coincided with those of Spain. Preventive diplomacy, human rights, women, peace and security agenda and the fight against terrorism and violent extremism all figure among the examples he quoted.

"Spain has felt very comfortable working with you and we believe that you have also felt comfortable working alongside us", said Mariano Rajoy, who recalled that the outgoing Secretary-General has made official visits to Spain on no less than 12 occasions during his 10-year term.

"By granting this award, we are also acknowledging the small boy who life taught a very tough lesson to at a very early age by leaving him as a refugee", concluded the President of the Government, who will chair an open meeting of the Security Council on Tuesday on people trafficking in situations of conflict.

Spain's contribution to the UN

Pool Moncloa / Diego CrespoAwards were also given at the same ceremony to the wife of the Secretary-General, Ban Soon-taek, who received the Command of the Order of Isabella the Catholic, for her work over more than 40 years in activities related to women, children and the elderly, stated Mariano Rajoy.

This acknowledgement, he added, also reflects that Spain's priorities include strengthening the role of women at the United Nations and eradicating gender-based violence.

For his part, Jan Eliasson, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, received the Grand Cross of the Order of Civil Merit, and Edmond Mulet, Chief of Staff of the Secretary-General, the Command of the Order of Isabella the Catholic.

In his speech, Ban Ki-moon thanked Spain for its "tremendous contribution" to the United Nations and for "the world becoming a better place". In his opinion, Spain "has always been and continues to be a crossroad of civilisations" and is "at the forefront" in sustainable development, human rights and trans-cultural dialogue.

The Secretary-General of the UN congratulated Spain on its membership of the Security Council over the last two years and pointed out that he counts on it continuing to be "a solid friend" of the United Nations and providing support to his successor, António Guterres.