UN chief for strengthening of families

United Nations, May 14 (IANS) UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon Wednesday called for strengthening of families so that the society may progress as one family.

"By providing economic and emotional sustenance to their members, families can raise productive and caring citizens committed to the common good," Ben said in a message on the International Day of Families.

"Strong, well-functioning families, whatever form they may take, can help reduce poverty, improve the well-being of mothers, promote gender equality and uphold human rights," Ban said.

"On this International Day of Families, let us strive to strengthen these small but critical units found in every society so that we may advance as one human family toward greater progress," he added.