New York Mayor affirms strong mutual ties between UN and host city

Addressing the United Nations General Assembly this morning, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg underscored the strong mutual ties between the world body and its host city.

The Mayor said New York's recovery would affirm the principles that inspired the creation of the UN, which, like the city, depended on free and open debate, and bringing people together to learn to live in peace with one another.

"We stand with all nations, united - to uphold the rights of people everywhere to 'breathe free,'" he said. "We support your efforts, welcome you here, and pledge to work together for a better world."

In an address to the Assembly's gathering of world leaders, Mr. Bloomberg said that the terrorist attacks last year was by no means just a strike against a geographical place but a assault against freedom-loving people everywhere, making it an attack on the principles of the UN.

"Terrorism violates the letter and the spirit of the United Nations Charter, which pledges its members to save the world from the scourge of war, to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, and the dignity and the worth of each man and woman," he said.

The Mayor also thanked the delegates for their support during New York's time of difficulty, saying that their attendance at the Assembly "powerfully expresses your solidarity with our city."

"New Yorkers have always applauded the efforts of the UN to help nations ravaged by conflict rebuild their societies," he said. "We are humbled by your outpouring of support in our time of need."