Queen Elizabeth II hails UN’s leadership in ever-changing world

(July 08, 2010) Addressing the United Nations for the first time in more than 50 years, Queen Elizabeth II Tuesday lauded the world body for its many achievements, while exhorting it to continue playing its lead role in the cause of peace and prosperity for all. “In my lifetime, the United Nations has moved from being a high-minded aspiration to being a real force for common good. That of itself has been a signal achievement,” the British monarch, who was accompanied by her husband, Prince Philip, told the General Assembly. She noted that for over six decades, the UN has helped to shape the international response to global dangers. “The challenge now is to continue to show this clear and convening leadership while not losing sight of your ongoing work to secure the security, prosperity and dignity of our fellow human beings.” Queen Elizabeth is the Head of State of 16 of the UN’s 192 Member States and head of the Commonwealth of 54 countries. She last addressed the General Assembly in 1957 at the age of 31, four years after she was crowned queen. She noted that during her reign, the world has witnessed tremendous changes, including in science and technology, as well as social attitudes. She highlighted some of the UN’s “remarkable” achievements, including helping to reduce conflict, offering humanitarian assistance to millions of people affected by natural disasters and other emergencies, and tackling the effects of poverty in many parts of the world. Calling her “a living symbol of grace, constancy and dignity,” Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed his gratitude for the Queen’s dedication to the common values embodied by the UN. With the Queen at the helm, the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth have contributed immensely to the United Nations, said Mr. Ban,