열린장관실

Excellencies, Distinguished Guests,

I am delighted to be here this evening to welcome you to the Global Green Growth Summit (GGGS).

Since 2008, Korea has been devoted to a new development paradigm for the future. Green Growth seeks to maximize the synergy between the environment and socio-economic growth in a balanced manner. I believe that developing countries will benefit greatly from Green Growth through specific capacity building programs related to poverty eradication, job creation and social cohesion.

Against this backdrop, I am pleased to note that the Global Green Growth Summit (GGGS) has developed both in terms of size and quality since its launch last year. The scope of participants has further broadened to include various stake-holders from all parts of the world: governments, private sectors, academia and civil societies. The agenda has also expanded to encompass a greater range of issues, from Green Technology to Water and Food Security. I hope that the GGGS will build on the thriving momentum and emerge as a truly premier platform in the field of Green Growth.

Another notable example of international cooperation is the Global Green Growth Institute(GGGI). Since its establishment in 2010, the GGGI has pursued its vision of becoming a hybrid and multi-stakeholder international organization, and has actively been expanding its global presence and influence. The Korean Government has engaged in numerous consultations with interested countries for the development of the GGGI into an international organization.

And I am happy to announce that the GGGI is now ready to embark upon a new chapter. Just about an hour ago, 11 countries adopted the Agreement on the Establishment of the GGGI. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all the representatives who have spared no efforts to support and play an important part in the process.

There are two more additional steps for the GGGI to become a full-fledged international organization: in June, the signing of the Establishment Agreement during the Rio+20 Summit; and in late October, the official launch of the new GGGI back to back with the pre-COP 18 Ministerial in Seoul. The Korean Government will continue to render its full support and cooperate with like-minded countries to make the GGGI a true global asset in the field of green growth.

Distinguished Guests,

Finally, I would also like to invite your attention to the Expo 2012 Yeosu Korea, which will open this Saturday on May 12th. It's theme is "The Living Ocean and Coast." In light of the theme of the Yeosu Expo, we have included a parallel session at tomorrow's Global Green Growth Summit(GGGS) under the title of "Ocean and Fisheries Cooperation." I hope that you will find the time to visit the Expo during your stay.

In closing, I would like to congratulate all of you on being forerunners in the field of Green Growth and propose a toast to the success of the GGGS. Cheers!