Mayor Katja Dörner: I warmly congratulate UNITAR on its 60th anniversary and wish the Bonn office every success for its work now and in the future. Training and research on current, socially relevant issues such as combating the climate crisis, using our natural resources wisely and promoting a circular economy are of great importance for the future of humanity. UNITAR's Bonn office offers a unique blend of research and innovative learning opportunities for public and private sector professionals from all parts of the world.

UNITAR used its 60th birthday as an opportunity to look back and forward to the many challenges facing the world, but also to progress and achievements that have partly been triggered by education and research contributing to sustainable solutions. Through education and research, UNITAR aims to help involve young people, in particular, in the search for new solutions for a greener, more peaceful and sustainable way of life.

Participants in the panel discussion included Nikhil Seth, UN Deputy Secretary-General and Executive Director of UNITAR, Ina Parvanova from the Bonn-based World Climate Change Secretariat (UNFCCC), Hubertus Hille, Managing Director of the Bonn/Rhein-Sieg Chamber of Trade and Industry, Sunandan Tiwari from the international cities network ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, Thomas Vogel, GS Foundation, Ambassador Rainer Lassig from the UN Liaison Office of the Federal Foreign Office, and Professor Michael Hoch, Rector of the University of Bonn. 

Following the discussion, UNITAR and the City of Bonn hosted a reception and Deputy Mayor Dr. Ursula Sautter gave a welcoming speech. The panel discussion was financially supported by the City of Bonn as well.