Representatives of the Seventh-day Adventist Church attending a top-level conference at the United Nations on August 28 said they were encouraged by the Secretary-General’s call for partnership with civil organizations.

During his speech to 1,800 delegates meeting in the main General Assembly hall at UN headquarters in New York, Secretary-General Kofi Annan called for “partnerships strong enough to make sure that the global market is embedded in broadly shared values and practices that reflect global needs.

“Whether your main activity is helping set policy at the global level, or working directly to help people; whether you work primarily in the developed or developing world; whether your concern is the advancement of women or education, human rights, humanitarian assistance or health-you have shown, time and again, a courage and a vision that we must all admire. You are our partners in every sense of the word. Your voices will be heard, I promise you that.”

Dr. Jonathan Gallagher, UN representative for the Adventist Church and leader of the Adventist delegation, expressed appreciation for the Secretary-General’s call.

“We’re encouraged by the approach that recognizes the great contributions that are being made by non-governmental organizations,” said Gallagher. “More and more, world challenges are being met by religious and humanitarian groups motivated to care for those who are less advantaged. The Adventist church is committed to wide-ranging practical programs of health, education, and humanitarian aid, as well as defending human rights and religious liberty. Our presence here endorses our commitment to help in whatever area we can, making direct contributions to combat such problems as illiteracy, poverty, hygiene, food and water shortages, together with meeting spiritual needs and promoting freedom of conscience.”