“This is an incredibly important time, especially for ordinary people who are paying a heavy price for the fact that this conflict is not only dragging on, but is also becoming increasingly worrying.,” He speak.
The secretary general spoke in the Portuguese capital during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, a day after Israel and Lebanon announced a ceasefire following more than a year of conflict between Hezbollah fighters and Israeli forces.
Respect the agreement
He said it was essential that those who signed the agreement fully respect it and that it paves the way for a political solution to the Lebanon crisis.
“At the same time, I can assure you that UNITThe United Nations peacekeeping force, already present in Lebanon, is now ready to contribute to verifying this ceasefire with full commitment,” he added.
The Secretary-General emphasized the importance of respecting international law to achieve peace.
“It is clear that at a time when we see increasing conflict and a sense of impunity, various powers, even small and medium-sized powers, have the capacity to do whatever they want,” he said. whatever they want without anything happening to them that endangers them.” security of their country and neighboring countries.”
Peace in Gaza, Ukraine and beyond
Turning to other conflicts, he emphasized the need for a just peace in Ukraine, with respect for UN Charterinternational law and the country’s territorial integrity.
The UN chief reiterated his call for peace in Gaza, with an immediate ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access to civilians. people “who have suffered in ways that I cannot recall at any other time during my tenure.” .”
A joint press conference was held after the end of the conference 10th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)held over three days in the coastal town of Cascais.
UNAOC is a platform for intercultural dialogue, understanding and cooperation. Its work focuses on five key priority areas of youth, education, media, migration and women as peacemakers.
