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United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has issued the following message for the Year of Crystallography:

This year marks the centenary of the birth of modern crystallography. We celebrate 100 years of ground-breaking advances.

Crystallography is fundamental to understanding the structure of matter. It is critical for materials science, health care, agriculture and biotechnology. 

Today, crystallography is at the core of structural sciences, revealing the constitution of minerals and the molecules of life, helping scientists to design new-generation materials and life-saving medicine.

In recognition of these important contributions, the United Nations General Assembly designated 2014 as the International Year of Crystallography. The goal is to raise awareness about the power of crystals, deepen cooperation and create new partnerships across the globe.

Crystallography has an important place as we work for inclusive sustainable development -- policies that are good for people and the planet.

I thank UNESCO, along with the International Union of Crystallography and all other partners.

Thank you for working to help societies harness the full power of sciences for sustainable development. Let us make the Year a great success!