The message reads, in part:
"With every year that passes the need to develop a sound, economical attitude to our planet's fresh water resources, to improve water quality becomes more pressing It is clear that for this to be accomplished successfully, agreed action by all states and governments is needed. Our top priorities must be: ensuring water is not polluted, and making sure it is used efficiently and economically in industry, farming and in the home. It is no exaggeration to say that the sustainable development of every country, every continent, and even the future of mankind to a great extent depends on this.
"I am confident that your forum will enable you ‘to synchronise your watches' and arrive at practical recommendations and proposals. That it will help those present unite to deal with the problems we face in terms of water resources."