‘If we act together,’ we can overcome global challenges – UN General Assembly President
Emphasize urgent need for collective action To address pressing global issues, Mr. Duong stressed the importance of Sustainable Development Goals (Sustainable Development Goals), notes that with just five years to go until the globally agreed 2030 deadline, less than 17 percent of the goals are on track.
He also highlighted the immediate threats posed by the climate crisis, which is impacting ecosystems and livelihoods around the world.
“The urgency of our task cannot be overstated,” he said, calling for a united front against the escalating climate emergency.
Call for ceasefire in ongoing conflicts
The President of the General Assembly then turned to the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine, Haiti and Sudan, calling for an immediate ceasefire and compliance with international humanitarian law.
He specifically called for an end to violence between Hamas and Israel, supported the unconditional release of hostages and the two-state solution to ensure lasting peace and dignity for both Palestinians and Israelis.
Military spending and the rising nuclear threat
Mr. Yang warned against diverting resources into military stockpiles, which he described as fueling an unprecedented arms race reminiscent of the Cold War.
He reiterated the existential threat posed by nuclear weapons and called for urgent measures to eliminate these instruments of destruction.
In his speech, the President of the General Assembly stressed the importance of dialogue and trust between nations, noting that old prejudices and new divisions hinder peaceful solutions to conflicts.
“Continuous dialogue is a powerful weapon,” he affirmed, stressing that trust is essential for human dignity and lasting peace.
Gender equality and human rights
The President also addressed the issue of gender equality, highlighting the ongoing struggles women and girls around the world face as they are denied basic rights and opportunities.
He condemned forced labour and modern slavery, calling for a global commitment to combat these injustices.
Reforming multilateral institutions
Mr. Yang pointed out the urgent need to reform the international financial system as many countries are struggling with huge debts.
He noted the growing digital divide, which leaves entire populations without access to the resources essential to succeed in the modern world.
Mr. Duong reminded world leaders of their shared responsibility in shaping a better future.
He has recently consulted Summit of the Future and application Treaty for the futureaims to reinvent multilateral institutions to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.