On the 9th May 2012, Bank Ki-Moon  made a briefing raising the issue of the continuous tensions in Syria and the need for more participation to RIO+20 he emphasized "the historic importance of the Rio+20 Conference and urged participation at the highest levels" he argued that "we cannot continue the same approach and expect different results".  He called for all Member States to "Show the flexibility that it will take to reach agreement on all substantive issues.  Finalize the outcome document ahead of the Conference in Rio".

In other words "action to improve management and protection of our oceans … a framework for more sustainable consumption and production … agreement to meet the zero hunger challenge … new initiatives to ensure universal access to water … and a focused effort to improve life in the world’s cities".

"Finally, we need a clear direction for enhancing the global institutional architecture to address sustainable development challenges" he concluded. 

Click here to read the press release.