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I can think of no more appropriate summation of the challenge we can and will face together than some words from T.S. Elliot's "Four Quartets". So, let me quote them for you now:

"We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time."

We have, indeed, started to know Earth for the first time. Most of all, we're learning that it belongs to all mankind; and thus, is ours to preserve or destroy. The ISY will give all of us an excellent opportunity to coordinate our efforts and to raise public awareness of the essential central role space activities will continue to play in understanding and maintaining our planet.

Humankind has but one Earth. Working together, there is no limit to what we can accomplish to ensure its survival so that future generations can enjoy it and live in safety and prosperity.

Thank you very much.

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