Mr. Duong underline the need for equitable economic growth driven by innovation and a green economy, ensuring that “all countries, large and small, can benefit from economic development”.
He added that peace and security would also be key priorities as he called on countries to resolve ongoing conflicts, including in the Gaza Strip, Haiti, Ukraine and Africa’s Great Lakes region.
“We must invest every effort to reduce tensions and instead build trust around the world.“, he said.
Human rights are the core
Human rights, along with strengthening international law and the rule of law framework, will remain high on the agenda, with the General Assembly working to enhance coordination of humanitarian efforts.
This will help ensure the organization’s response to crises is timely and effective, and ensure that aid reaches those who need it most, Mr. Yang said.
“Final, We will tackle the common challenges of international terrorism, drug and human trafficking and modern slavery,He continued to stress the need to protect human dignity.
“As President of the General Assembly, I am committed to advancing these discussions and leveraging our collective will and expertise to deliver important solutions,” he added.
The United Nations…where solutions are found
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres also delivered the opening speech of the meeting, highlight the urgency of collective action to confront a world “in trouble.”
He praised President Yang’s vision and leadership, pledging his full support to unite diverse member states towards common goals.
“From its very beginning, the United Nations has been a place for multilateral solutions. – based on cooperation, dialogue, diplomacy and United Nations Charter“, he said.
Philemon Yang (center), President of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, chairs the first plenary session of the session.
Bringing the Sustainable Development Goals to life
Acknowledging the gravity of the current global situation, the UN chief stressed the need for concrete solutions across a range of areas, including poverty, inequality and the climate crisis.
“We need solutions…to bring Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to restore life and end poverty and inequality,He noted that economic progress and job creation, especially for women and young people, must be prioritized.
The Secretary-General also pointed to the important role of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), and the need to ensure they serve as enablers of progress rather than barriers.
“Step by step, solution by solution, we can rebuild trust and faith in each other.”, he concluded, calling for a renewed commitment to the principles that have guided the Organization since its founding in 1945.
Palestine takes one seat
The opening of the 79th session also marked the first time that the State of Palestine was present among member states at the General Assembly, after through resolution ES-10/23 in tenth emergency special session earlier this year.
That thing resolution also be set additional rights for the State of Palestine to participate in the meetings of the General Assembly, but without the right to vote or to nominate for election to the Principal Organs of the United Nations such as Security Council or Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
The additional rights and privileges do not confer membership on the State of Palestine, which requires a specific recommendation from the Security Council.
