World Leaders Pledge Bold Action to Protect Present, Future Generations amid Climate Crisis, Conflicts Gripping Globe, as General Assembly Adopts Pact for Future

Today the General Assembly adopted the Pact for the Future, in which Heads of State and Government — representing the peoples of the world — made 56 pledges to action seeking to protect the needs and interests of present and future generations amid the climate change, crisis and conflict currently gripping the globe.

Nevertheless, at the outset of the meeting, the representative of the Russian Federation proposed an amendment (document A/79/L.3) to the Pact, stating that “no one is happy with this text”.  That amendment proposed the addition of language relating to the United Nations’ intervention in “matters which are essentially within the domestic jurisdiction of any State” and to avoiding certain duplication of effort.

However, the representative of the Republic of the Congo, speaking for the African Group, underscored the need to show unity in finding solutions to today’s multiple, complex challenges.  The adoption of such an amendment “is not going to help us meet our expectations”, he stressed, proposing a motion that no action be taken on the draft amendment.  That motion was adopted by a recorded vote of 143 in favour to 7 against (Belarus, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Iran, Nicaragua, Russian Federation, Sudan, Syria), with 15 abstentions.

The Assembly then adopted the resolution titled “The Pact for the Future” (document A/79/L.2) without a vote.  In the Pact’s opening terms, the Assembly committed to bold, ambitious, accelerated, just and transformative actions to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and to place the eradication of poverty at the centre of the efforts to do that.

By other terms, world leaders pledged to close the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) financing gap in developing countries, to ensure that the multilateral trading system continues to be an engine for sustainable development and to accelerate reform of the international financial architecture to strengthen the voice and representation of developing countries. The Assembly also committed to reform the Security Council, recognizing the urgent need to make it more representative, inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic and accountable. The Pact also contains terms relating to gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, as well as a commitment to promote, protect and respect the human rights of all young people.

Further, the Pact has two annexes, the first of which — the Global Digital Compact — outlines the objectives of closing all digital divides; fostering an inclusive, open, safe and secure digital space that respects, protects and promotes human rights; and enhancing international governance of artificial intelligence.  In the second annex — Declaration on Future Generations — the Assembly adopted a set of guiding principles, commitments and actions to promote international stability, peace and security and to ensure peaceful, inclusive and just societies while addressing inequalities within and among nations and the special needs of developing countries, as well as people in vulnerable situations.

“Our future is in our hands,” emphasized Philémon Yang (Cameroon), President of the General Assembly at its seventy-ninth session, following the Pact’s adoption.  The document represents a pledge to address immediate crises and lay the foundation for a sustainable, just and peaceful global order for all peoples and nations. Underscoring the need to ensure a future where peace transcends the mere absence of conflict and is grounded in justice, inclusion and equity, he said that meaningful progress requires that all voices are heard and that all nations — regardless of size or wealth — have a seat at the table.

António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, then noted that he called for the Summit of the Future “because our world is heading off the rails” as “resources that could bring opportunities and hope are invested in death and destruction”.  Stating that the international community has “unlocked the door” by adopting the Pact and its annexes, he urged:  “Now it is our common responsibility to walk through it.”  Ultimately, however, “we stand and fall not by adopting agreements — but by our actions and their impact on the lives of the people we serve”, he concluded.

Olaf Scholz, Chancellor of Germany — the Pact’s co-facilitator, along with Namibia — also urged those present to take steps towards a more peaceful, fairer world, stating that, while “the road ahead is rocky”, history will judge Member States for their commitment to the plan at hand. Nangolo Mbumba, President of Namibia, added that the world is at a crossroads.  One path leads to environmental catastrophe, widening inequality, global conflict, destruction and the rise of dangerous technology that threatens peoples’ security and civil liberties; the other, to peace, the eradication of poverty and hunger and the responsible harnessing of digital technologies for the benefit of humanity.

When the floor opened, more than 70 countries — many of whom were represented at the highest level — took the podium to underscore the urgent need for renewed action if the international community is to meet the targets it has set for itself.  Speakers also called for sustainable financing for development, investment in women and youth and a more-representative United Nations.

Proliferating global conflicts also courted discussion in this context, as many speakers stressed that development cannot be achieved without a strong foundation of peace, security and stability.  Among them was Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, Prime Minister of Qatar, who said that his country — to that end — is involved in many mediation efforts.  This includes Qatar’s work with Egypt and the United States to end the catastrophic war in Gaza.  Diplomacy and dialogue are critical for achieving peace, said Mohammed Shia’ al Sudani, Prime Minister of Iraq, noting his country’s focus on promoting international relations based on mutual respect.

Nevertheless, Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President of Malawi, said that the world is not likely to meet the SDG targets because “we seem more interested in moving with speed in destroying the future than we are in replenishing”.  Similarly, To Lam, President of Viet Nam, urged:  “We need to shift our focus from investing in destructive weapons to enhancing health care and education.”  The international community, stressed Viola Amherd, President of Switzerland, must work together “to ensure that our common future is not determined exclusively by national self-interest”.  Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan, concurred:  “We must prioritize policies that serve the common good over narrow interests.”

Ultimately, implementation of the words within the Pact is what matters, pointed out Alar Karis, President of Estonia, adding: “Perhaps we cannot achieve perfection, but we must ensure that we save people from war, famine, torture and injustice.”  Wavel Ramkalawan, President of the Seychelles, urged that “we cannot afford to make commitments to strengthen global cooperation” on various issues “only to see them diluted in implementation”.  Calling for “a world where the multilateral system is not resolution after resolution, gathering dust” — but a dynamic force — Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Maldives, stressed that it is time for the multilateral system to produce tangible results.

“We do not have time to waste,” stressed Sadyr Zhaparov, President of Kyrgyzstan, urging “decisive” action to strengthen the connections between nations and forge global partnerships to address challenges such as forced migration, climate threats and the unjust distribution of resources.  Stressing that “inaction is not an option”, Chandrikapersad Santokhi, President of Suriname, pointed to Caribbean nations’ lack of financial resources to invest in health, education and infrastructure due to external debt.  The failure to share global resources will continue to drive humanity to war, social disintegration and migration and “condemn us to live in two separate worlds”, added Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados.

“The future is not distant,” stressed Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of Ghana — “it is here, and the choices we make here will determine the fate of generations to come.”  No nation, regardless of power, can solve today’s challenges alone, he stated. Noting that today’s problems are “too extreme, too global to be addressed in isolated effort”, Edi Rama, Prime Minister of Albania, urged delegations that “multilateralism is not a choice – it is an urgent necessity”.

“On the one hand,” concluded Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, “we can bury our heads in the sand, eschewing multilateralism in favour of short-sighted self-interest; or, we can recognize that — collectively — we have a responsibility to set our differences aside.”

Action

Prior to the opening segment, the representative of the Russian Federation introduced amendment A/79/L.3 to resolution A/79/L.2 titled by the same name, “The Pact for the Future”, stressing that there is nothing of substance to adopt today.  But that is not the fault of the current President of the General Assembly and his predecessor.  “They inherited this problem from previous predecessors, and did all they could, but didn’t have enough time,” he added.  The Russian Federation requested sitting down and discussing the problem at the same table, but that idea was shut down.  “This cannot be called multilateralism,” he continued, also adding that:  “What happened is a major defeat for the UN principles of the sovereign [and] equality of States enshrined in the Charter.”  This was sacrificed for the interest of a certain group of countries. What about the principle of “Leaving No One Behind”? he asked.

“Essentially, no one is happy with this text,” he emphasized. It would have would have been optimal not to put forward this non-consensus-based test, but to continue negotiations until this document finally is acceptable to all.  He went on to say that the amendment proposed by him today is not ignoring the needs of the Global South but trying to protect them from pressure from the collective West, which has not honoured its previous obligations.  And “now they are hiding behind the backs” of the Global South.  He urged all delegations to vote for the amendment.

The representative of the Republic of the Congo, speaking on behalf of the African Group, stated:  “It is our collective responsibility to ensure and guarantee a better future for current and future generations.”  The international community is now at a crossroads that will define our common future, he observed, underscoring the need to show unity and find answers to multiple complex challenges faced today.  The adoption of the proposed amendment “is not going to help us meet our expectations”, he added.

The representative of Mexico seconded the motion of no action and urged all Member States to vote in favour of the motion.  He pointed out that the amendment “was never raised during negotiations”, preventing proper consideration by delegations. Although his country had hoped to propose amendments on issues that represent “a priority” for Mexico’s foreign policy, he stressed that the current text lays “the foundation for the future work of the Organization”.

The delegate of Cameroon then took the floor to express his support for the motion introduced by Congo on behalf of the African Group.

The representative of Venezuela, speaking also on behalf of Iran and Syria, opposed the motion for no action introduced by Congo, describing it as a “procedural manoeuvre” that reflects “the arrogant view of certain Western States” during the negotiation process.  Noting the lack of consensus on the Pact for the Future due to “the lack of political willingness of those same countries to enter into good faith negotiations over the last 18 months”, he urged Member States to reject the motion for no action and vote in favour of the amendment contained in document A/79/L.3.

The representative of Belarus requested the Assembly examine the substance of the amendment contained in document “L.3”.

The Assembly then took a recorded vote on the motion submitted by the representative of Congo, that no action be taken on draft amendment “L.3”.

The motion was adopted by a recorded vote of 143 in favour to 7 against (Belarus, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Iran, Nicaragua, Russian Federation, Sudan, Syria), with 15 abstentions.

The Assembly then took action on the resolution titled “Pact for the Future” contained in document “L.2”, adopting it without a vote.

Statements

PHILÉMON YANG (Cameroon), President of the General Assembly, said:  “Our future is in our hands.”  With the power to make important choices for the future, “we stand at a crossroads of global transformation, facing unprecedented challenges that demand urgent, collective action”.  From conflict and climate change to the digital divide, from inequalities to threats against human rights, humanity faces profound challenges.  “Yet, alongside these challenges, there is hope,” he stressed, as challenges come along with the opportunity for renewal, innovation and global cooperation.  The Pact of the Summit of the Future represents the pledge to address immediate crises and lay the foundations for a sustainable, just and peaceful global order for all peoples and nations.  The commitments embodied in the Pact and its annexes must encourage the international community to promote international peace and security, invigorate the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), foster just and inclusive societies and ensure that technology always serves the common good of humankind. =

“We must move forward, together, in a spirit of solidarity and multilateral cooperation,” he said, citing the Summit of the Future as “a call to action” that “recommits us to the principles of international law, the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the promise of the United Nations Charter to save future generations from the pain of war”.  He underscored the need to ensure a future where peace transcends the mere absence of conflict and is grounded in justice, inclusion and equity.  Meaningful progress requires that all voices are heard and that all nations — regardless of size or wealth — have a seat at the table.  Also, he continued, it is vital to recognize that none of the SDGs will be achieved without the full participation of women and girls as well as young people — “the torchbearers of tomorrow”.  This is especially true in Africa, where more young people will enter the workforce each year than in the rest of the world combined.  “Together, let us rise to this moment with courage and determination as we accelerate our journey towards a brighter future for everyone, everywhere,” he concluded.

ANTÓNIO GUTERRES, Secretary-General of the United Nations, delivering opening remarks, emphasizing the urgent need to “bring multilateralism back from the brink”, said that he called for the Summit of the Future to “to consider deep reforms, to make global institutions more legitimate, fair and effective”.  “I called for this summit because our world is heading off the rails — and we need tough decisions to get back on track,” he underscored.  Highlighting the multiple challenges of the twenty-first century — ranging from multiplying conflicts to huge inequalities and fragile collective security — he warned that “resources that could bring opportunities and hope are invested in death and destruction”.  “Our multilateral tools and institutions are unable to respond effectively to today’s political, economic, environmental and technological challenges,” he underscored, cautioning:  “And tomorrow’s will be even more difficult and dangerous.”

The Security Council “is eroding” in credibility due to its outdated structure, and the international financial architecture — designed during the colonial era — no longer addresses today’s economic challenges, including debt and climate action, he said.  Against this backdrop, he underscored the urgency of reforms, stating that “we cannot wait for perfect conditions” and that now is the time for decisive action to make international cooperation “more networked, fair and inclusive”.  He went on to introduce three key agreements — the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations — praising them as steps towards “more effective, inclusive, networked multilateralism towards reforming multilateralism”.  He noted that these agreements “open pathways to new possibilities”, including reforms to the Security Council and international financial architecture. “We have unlocked the door.  Now it is our common responsibility to walk through it,” he said, urging Member States to take action and implement these agreements.  “We stand and fall not by adopting agreements, but by our actions and their impact on the lives of the people we serve,” he concluded.  To this end, the Summit of the Future, he emphasized, sets the course for a new era of international cooperation that can meet expectations of the people.

GHANIM MOHAMMED AL MUFTAH, United Nations youth representative from Qatar and a political science graduate, said that the decisions made today are not just about policies and strategies.  They are about shaping a world where all children can thrive in an inclusive, safe and sustainable future.  “As a person with disability, I have learned that true progress comes not from overcoming personal challenges alone, but from how we, as a society, embrace each other’s differences,” he said.  Sadly, there is no choice for children where wars and conflicts cause unnecessary injuries and life-long disabilities.  It is in our hands to stop this global trend of violence, in Gaza and around the world. “The future belongs to our youth and we must ensure that they are prepared to take on leadership roles,” he said.

NIRIA ALICIA GARCIA, United Nations youth representative from the United States, said:  “Our Mother Earth is hurting” — worldwide, water and sacred places are being desecrated, and corporate greed and war are pushing life to the verge of extinction.  Global governance and politics are void of spirituality morality, and basic respect for life.  “My generation’s hearts are breaking as we survive the impacts of climate disaster that could have been prevented […] as we watch genocide of our Palestinian relatives live on our phones, despite the global call for a ceasefire,” she said. The Pact for the Future mentions words like “sustainable development” nearly 300 times, yet words like “children”, “Earth” and “future generations” are mentioned less than 60 times. “This is green colonialism and it needs to stop,” she asserted, pointing to zero mentions of plants and animals or Indigenous Peoples’ rights.  “Do Indigenous People still not exist to you,” she asked, adding that their continued exclusion will inevitably lead to more destruction, pain and suffering. Yet, there is hope to create real intergenerational solutions, she emphasized, calling on global leaders to “go home and ratify the UN declaration on the rights of Indigenous Peoples […] begin to meaningfully engage youth, cut the military budget and allocate those funds for climate solutions, to pay reparations […] and give Indigenous People our land back”.

MONICAH MALITH, a youth refugee from South Sudan, said that the escalating refugee crises is among “the most pressing issues” facing the world caused by lack of peace and security.  Reflecting on her own journey as a refugee from South Sudan, she spoke about the educational opportunities she received in Kenya, which enabled her to receive a law degree and “stand as a voice for the youth — for refugees, and for all those forgotten”.  Noting that the plight of refugees underscores the collective responsibility, she urged to provide them with “not just immediate assistance but also long-term, compassionate solutions” to uphold their dignity and enable their meaningful contribution to society.  She stressed the importance of education as a tool for progress, urging Governments and stakeholders to “think big on funding for education”.  In a call for action for leaders, she warned that while Governments talk of reforms, “the gaps are growing wider still”.  Therefore, future deliberations should “not be rehearsed platitudes, but revolutions of thoughts”, she stressed. Addressing the youth, she stated that “the future is ours to forge. […] It belongs to the bold.”

OLAF SCHOLZ, Chancellor of Germany, said that the Pact for the Future can serve as a compass towards cooperation instead of conflict.  The Pact shows determination to restore international justice and that all the talk of polarization will not be the story of the United Nations.  “We are still committed to the principles of the United Nations Charter,” he added. The text is the achievement of the countless men and women who overcome fatigue and political and ideological divides. “You have proved that multilateralism is alive,” he said, urging Member States to take steps towards a world that is peaceful, a world that is fairer.  History will judge Member States if they do not commit to the plan at hand. “The road ahead is rocky,” he added, emphasizing that Germany stands ready to extend its hand to anyone willing to work together towards a better future.

NANGOLO MBUMBA, President of Namibia, reiterated the commitment to the current and future generations — a world where all peoples and countries are prosperous, more loving, inclusive and tolerant — noting that this summit presents a historic opportunity.  The world is at a crossroads — one path leads to environmental catastrophe, widening inequality and leading to global conflict, destruction and the rise of dangerous technology that threatens peoples’ security and civil liberty.  The other path offers hope for climate change, global peace, the eradication of poverty and hunger, and the responsible harnessing of digital technologies for the benefit of humanity.

To this end, he underscored the need to reform international organizations, including the Security Council.  The UN must empower nations and regions to adopt comprehensive pathways to ensure economic prosperity, strengthen global agreements and institutions to ensure the effective implementation of the SDGs and finance these goals through innovative global financing architecture.  “We need the UN,” because at the heart of the institution is the principle of global solutions to global problems, he observed, recognizing the profound significance of this summit for the future.

JULIUS MAADA BIO, President of Sierra Leone, speaking on behalf of the Group of Seven-Plus (G7+) countries, said that the Summit represents a key moment for “reflection, collective action and renewed commitment” to build a “sustainable, just and equitable future”.  For the G7+ countries, the challenges of instability are not distant — they are “the stark reality that we contend with every day”.  He noted that the “Summit of the Future has offered us an opportunity to adopt the Pact of the Future”, a road map for a “more inclusive, secure and sustainable world”.  Against this backdrop, he stressed that peace and development “must be driven from within”, and efforts to address fragility should be grounded in dialogue, reconciliation and inclusive governance.  Highlighting the importance of promoting sustainable development in conflict-affected countries, he noted that progress is hindered by persistent challenges of fragility.  Therefore, he called for “increased international cooperation, innovative financing mechanisms and tailored approaches” to ensure no country is left behind.  He further emphasized that “international peace and security form the bedrock of global development”, and for countries recovering from conflict, strengthening institutions, promoting the rule of law and addressing root causes remain essential.

RASHAD MOHAMMED AL-ALIMI, President of Yemen, said his country has suffered from war, but its aspirations are still unified with the people of the world because Yemen believes in a global collaboration toward a prosperous future for all.  Despite the grave challenges faced by the Yemeni people, they remain steadfast in confronting Iran-backed militias destabilizing their country.  “We are trying to confront violent and extremism,” he added, emphasizing that the Yemeni generation born into conflict deserve to live in a peaceful and prosperous country.  For that reason, Yemen has launched programmes that benefit women and young people aimed at boosting their development.  Yemen is also working with the international community to come up with a strategy to end the conflict and deal with its humanitarian and climate challenges such as drought.

LUIZ INÁCIO LULA DA SILVA, President of Brazil, highlighted “great responsibilities to those who will succeed us”:  to not back down from the promotion of equality between men and women and the fight against racism and all forms of discrimination. Also, he stressed, “we cannot live with nuclear threats again, nor fuel new arms races on Earth or in space”, noting that it is unacceptable to regress to a world divided into ideological borders or zones of influence.  Naturalizing the hunger of 733 million people would be shameful, he added.  For its part, Brazil will promote a global ethical stocktaking, bringing together different civil society sectors to think about climate action from the perspective of justice, equity and solidarity. The Pact for the Future addresses essential topics — such as the debt of developing countries and international taxation — in a groundbreaking manner.  Calling for structural transformations, he stressed that the legitimacy of the Security Council shrinks every time it applies double standards or remains silent in the face of atrocities.  Also, he pointed out, the Global South is not represented in a way that is consistent with its current political, economic and demographic weight.

LAZARUS MCCARTHY CHAKWERA, President of Malawi, said that the world is not likely to meet the SDG targets, because “we seem more interested in moving with speed in destroying the future than we are in replenishing”.  Underscoring that “the old men and women in this Assembly” have the responsibility to build solutions for a future they will not inherit, he called for making the Pact for the Future free of past prejudices and today’s conflicts.  “Sustainable development is untenable without sustainable financing,” he stressed, calling for financing that is affordable and will catalyse global development in developing countries.  Expressing concern over unresolved global conflicts, he asserted that “no one in this room should still cling to the naive illusion that we live in a world where a war can be won”, calling for a rules-based approach and peaceful dispute resolutions.  In Malawi, and across Africa, the youth “are not just our future, but our present”, he underscored, urging for investment in technical skills and youth potential to harness the Fourth Industrial Revolution.  He went on to reiterate the call for “a UN that is fit for the future through fair representation and enhanced capacity to deal with complicated global challenges fit for the future”.

SADYR ZHAPAROV, President of Kyrgyzstan, said that, to build strong bridges between the past and the future, “we must strengthen the connections between nations”.  In that regard, the Summit of the Future is an important platform to rethink global partnerships focused on addressing various challenges, such as the spike in forced migration, climate threats and the unjust distribution of resources.  “We must take decisive action as soon as possible; we do not have time to waste,” he stressed.  Kyrgyzstan has made progress in eradicating poverty and its successful experience with the SDGs only shows that with the right vision and political will, even small countries with limited resources can achieve mighty goals.  The world being built today will become the source of hopes and dreams of generations to come, he added.  “We cannot leave here without taking decisive action,” he said.

CYRIL RAMAPHOSA, President of South Africa, said world conflicts and the spectre of emerging conflict are “ever-persistent features of our times”. Climate change poses an existential threat and reverses development goals in numerous parts of the world. These challenges transcend borders, he said, underscoring the need to forge global solutions that are embedded in the Pact, which presents a great opportunity to reinvigorate the multilateral system so that it is fit to address global challenges.  Underlining the need to reform the global governance architecture, he observed that placing the fate of the world’s security of a select few — where it is the vast majority of the peoples of the world who bear the brunt of various threats — is unsustainable and unjust.  The Summit is an opportunity to make progress on the SDGs, realize the fundamental right to development and accelerate the collective effort to advance development, he said, declaring:  “Action is what is required now.”

JOSEPH NYUMA BOAKAI, President of Liberia, said that following peaceful elections in his country, the Government has introduced an ambitious agenda focusing on agriculture, rule of law, education, sanitation and tourism. Despite facing challenges in making progress towards the SDGs, Liberia remains determined and dedicated to overcoming these obstacles, he said.  Citing the 2024 Financing for Sustainable Development Report, he drew attention to the fact that least developed countries are now spending “12 per cent of their revenues on interest payments” — four times more than a decade ago — stressing the urgent need for reform in the global financial system.  To accelerate the progress on the SDG achievement, he called for a transformation of global governance and “for a financial system that prioritizes liquidity and reduces the burden of development nation for a financial system”.  “By promoting international cooperation and accountability, we can create a fairer financial environment that empowers our countries to pursue their development goals,” he emphasized.  He went on to urge the international community “work together to remove the barriers that hinder potential and enable us to advance our shared vision for sustainable development”.

ALAR KARIS, President of Estonia, said that the Pact of the Future is a document of words; how it is going to be implemented is what matters.  The world has witnessed brutal aggression in recent years, including from a permanent member of the Security Council.  To deter crimes against humanity and war crimes, all Member States must demand accountability from Security Council to make sure no one can shield themselves from punishment of their own crimes with the veto.  “Let us make every effort from additional finance to capacity-building to bridge divides between countries,” he said.  Women and girls must have equal footing to step into the future. “Perhaps we cannot achieve perfection, but we must ensure that we save people from war, famine, torture and injustice,” he added.  Non-stop hard work is needed, even if results are not immediate.

NANA ADDO DANKWA AKUFO-ADDO, President of Ghana, said “the future is not distant:  it is here, and the choices we make here will determine the fate of generations to come”.  No nation, no matter how powerful, can solve today’s challenges alone, he stressed, adding that the climate crisis, inequality, pandemics, terrorism and violent extremism are not local problems — they demand global solutions.  At the heart of today’s crisis is the climate emergency, which threatens humanity’s very existence.  Africa — while contributing the least to global emissions — bears the heaviest burden:  from floods to desertification, it is already experiencing its devastating effects.  Despite the promises, the vulnerable remain abandoned. “We are told to adapt and be resilient, but how does one adapt to famine or build resilience when farmers cannot predict the seasons?”, he asked, underscoring that the continent cannot continue to pay for a crisis it did not create.  “We demand fairness, not charity,” he asserted, adding that climate justice requires an economic system that works for everyone, not just the privileged few. The multilateral system, especially the United Nations, should be at the forefront of this effort, he stressed, calling for the reform of the Security Council to ensure that Africa’s voice is heard in shaping the future of global peace and security.

DENIS BEĆIROVIĆ, Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, said that global challenges can only be addressed through good quality international cooperation.  Therefore, it is “imperative to establish a strong multilateral system based on inclusiveness”, he stressed.  “We can only create a world of security, justice and prosperity through joint work, solidarity and mutual respect,” he underscored, urging for concrete actions to ensure peace and stability for future generations.  The Pact for the Future is very necessary at this time of crisis for democracy and multilateralism, he asserted, adding that “the character of today’s challenges clearly identifies the path of our response”. “That is why multilateralism is the best response,” he underscored.  Noting that the future belongs to the young generations, he advocated for the “concrete involvement” of young people in the shaping of policies at the national and global level.  He further called for “concrete and comprehensive implementation” of the adopted Pact for the Future, adding that “the Summit is opening a new chapter in a process of strengthening multilateralism that is needed to all of us.”

TO LAM, President of Viet Nam, said that decisions made today will shape the landscape of the future. “We need to shift our focus from investing in destructive weapons to enhancing health care and education,” he added. That will help future generations be better able to commit to peace and prosperity rather than war and destruction. At this critical juncture, strengthening solidarity and mutual respect among Member States is essential.  The world’s wealthiest countries must act responsibly and must be willing to share science and technology advancements to foster collective growth.  Joint efforts and collective action are what is urgently needed to implement the Pact for the Future.  For its part, Viet Nam is committed to working towards those goals and building a brighter future for all.

MOHAMED MUIZZU, President of Maldives, called for “a world where the multilateral system is not resolution after resolution, gathering dust”, but a dynamic force.  Noting that visions crafted at the UN often remain unrealized, he stressed that it is time for the multilateral system to produce tangible results.  “We must empower our young people who shape the world today and will lead the world tomorrow,” he said, adding that an enabling environment is “key to true empowerment”.  To this end, it is vital to ensure that every young person has access to the latest technology and enable the youth to seize the opportunity before them. Additionally, he underscored the need to combat climate change, noting that climate anxiety is not “a hypothetical term”.  He said the Summit should honour a previous commitment to the world’s oceans and marine resources, adding that financing is the key to turning aspirations into reality.

CHANDRIKAPERSAD SANTOKHI, President of Suriname, said the international community must act now, with urgency, to make this world a better place.  “Inaction is not an option,” he stressed.  Highlighting multiple existential threats facing the Caribbean, including his country, he drew attention to the lack of financial resources to invest in critical sectors, such as health, education and infrastructure.  This is due to the external debts faced by these countries.  “The global financial system continues to disadvantage, and at times alienate, these nations,” he noted, expressing hope that the multidimensional vulnerability index will be adopted in the work of international financial institutions.  Noting that the 2030 Agenda remains a blueprint for his country, he pointed out uneven and alarmingly slow progress.  Urging the countries to accelerate efforts to meet the SDGs, he underscored the importance of providing assistance to small and vulnerable nations, while recognizing that “the principal obstacles to growth and progress are not of their doing”.  “We must transition from fragmented and divisive approaches to comprehensive, inclusive and transparent global rule-based governance structures,” he said, calling for a strengthened multilateral system.

JOSÉ MARIA NEVES, President of Cabo Verde, said that the world is facing challenges that are increasingly global with consequences that are disproportionately affecting the world’s most vulnerable.  The absence of peace and security has been exacerbated by the proliferation of wars of aggression, inter-State conflict and acts of terrorism across all continents. On the other hand, even where war is absent, instances of political tensions, unconstitutional seizures of power and human rights violations have been increasing.  Unequal access to the benefits of science, technology and innovation, are major global challenges that are holding back true development. Reform in the Security Council is essential to making it more effective and world more inclusive.  “Nevertheless, it is equally important to underline that our commitment to reforming multilateral governance cannot and should not distract us or relive us from what we must do at the national and regional levels,” he said.  Among those goals must be strengthening rule of law, upholding inclusive societies and deepening democratic practice.

VIOLA AMHERD, President of Switzerland, underscored that to drive forward the necessary reforms, it is vital to ensure a strong political will and rebuild trust.  The Pact is proving to be an essential and clear signal of commitment to the multilateral system, she said, noting the need to work together “to ensure that our common future is not determined exclusively by national self-interest”. “Now is the time to act with even more determination,” she asserted, stressing that “multilateralism needs this, and we need multilateralism”.  She underlined her country’s firm commitment to the values of multilateralism and determination to continue on the path towards a more sustainable, just and peaceful world.

KHURELSUKH UKHNAA, President of Mongolia, said that the documents adopted today — the Pact for the Future, Declaration on the Future Generations and the Global Digital Compact — mark “a significant milestone in reaffirming our shared goals and political aspirations during these challenging times”.  Stressing the importance of “strengthening multilateral cooperation”, he described it as “vital for ensuring international peace and security”.  Enhanced dialogue, mutual understanding and trust are the “fundamentals for global stability and coexistence”, he said, voicing confidence that the Summit of the Future will advance the SDGs.  Highlighting his country’s efforts in preparation for the Summit, he recalled the successful hosting of the World Women’s Forum, themed “Towards a Green Future”, which resulted in the adoption of the Ulaanbaatar Declaration “Towards a Sustainable Future”.

WAVEL RAMKALAWAN, President of Seychelles, said the stakes at this summit cannot be emphasized enough. “We cannot afford to make commitments to strengthen global cooperation on climate action, sustainable development and equitable access to resources only to see them diluted in implementation,” he said.  The harsh truth is that, despite ambitions, there is a real risk that these commitments will fall short continuing to marginalize those who are already most at risk, shutting them out of the very decision-making processes that shape the future. Addressing the digital divide is just as crucial as this inequality threatens to widen the gap between the haves and the have-nots.  Strong partnerships are vital to ensuring equitable access to the technologies and infrastructure that underpin modern development.  These efforts must be supported by resilient multilateral institutions, international cooperation, global solidarity and shared responsibility, as no nation can tackle these immense challenges alone.

HASSANAL BOLKIAH, Sultan of Brunei Darussalam, recalled that the UN has navigated the rise and fall of empires, and the impact of natural hazards and pandemics.  Amid these difficulties, its core humanitarian principles “have remained our guiding light as we confront new and emerging global challenges”, he said, adding that only through global peace can humankind achieve remarkable advancements in technology, medicine and infrastructure.  The Summit reinforces the commitment that no one is left behind, firmly anchored in the values that define our shared humanity.  Underscoring that the current international peace landscape is at a critical juncture — with persistent conflicts and diplomatic impasses testing the resilience of global cooperation — he said that “together, we can transform our collective vision into a vibrant reality for ourselves and for generations to come”.

MICHAEL D. HIGGINS, President of Ireland, emphasized that in the face of existential challenges, it is “not sufficient nor morally acceptable” to offer superficial solutions.  Instead, the urgency of the situation calls for authenticity by “matching words to actions” to rebuild trust.  “Never have so many had so little and so few accumulated so much without responsibility,” he said, adding that these challenges are “the consequences of a globalization from above, led by the powerful, without transparency, without consideration as to social justice or ecological consequences”. “A new, inclusive globalization from below” is a response needed “to achieve a new invigorated United Nations”. In envisaging a United Nations of the future, he urged to have the courage to look at not only current weaknesses, but at “abuses of power” that have consciously undermined the Organization since its founding.  Pointing out the 3.2 billion people who live in countries where more is spent on debt interest payments than on basic services, he underscored the urgency of eliminating hunger and poverty, calling for “the few” States to “indicate their willingness to change” to avoid the “horrific consequences of climate change” and “prevent the conclusion that, as a species, we have failed to the  achieve peace”.

CHARLES MICHEL, President of the European Council, speaking on behalf of the European Union delegation, said that finding the best way to tackle common challenges is the “shared mission of our generation”, and this summit is a unique moment to boost that ambition.  “We must urgently reform our international financial architecture,” he said, calling for Member States to fulfil past commitments.  The Union, together with its member States, is at the forefront of global development financing.  “We cannot accept that low- and middle-income countries must choose between fighting poverty and fighting climate change,” he said.  They must be able to do both.  The Pact for the Future sends a powerful signal of confidence that “despite our differences, despite the challenges we face, we can work together, and we want to work together”, he said.

CÉSAR BERNARDO ARÉVALO DE LEÓN, President of Guatemala, said the Pact of the Future should allow the international community to address challenges and shortcomings in the global governance system and recommit to building a multinational order.  Spotlighting challenges faced by developing and least developed countries — including those related to development and climate change — he underlined the importance of applying the principle of effective geographic representation.  Further, he stressed the need to address the problem of sovereign debts and comply with international law and treaties.  Turning to the situation in Gaza, he criticized the Council’s inability to stop the aggression, adding that double standards should not be applied in international law.

EDI RAMA, Prime Minister of Albania, called for the courage to admit that “our actions have too often fallen far short of the expectations of the people we claim to serve.”  As the international community has “consistently squandered the opportunities each crisis has presented for meaningful change”, he asked what can be done to rebuild the trust.  “How do we inspire instead of demoralize the ordinary people?” he further asked. Noting that the world has changed dramatically and “seems to have lost any common sense”, he stressed that the United Nations “remains irreplaceable”.  “This is where we must begin”, he asserted, adding that “multilateralism is not a choice; it is an urgent necessity” in tackling deeply interconnected global challenges.  Noting that today’s problems “are too extreme, too global to be addressed in isolated effort”, he cited his country’s history of standing up for humanity, from protecting Jews during the Second World War to sheltering thousands of Afghans after the fall of Kabul.

MOHAMMED SHIA' AL SUDANI, Prime Minister of Iraq, said that achieving balance between the three pillars of sustainable development is his country’s priority.  However, addressing Iraq’s myriad challenges requires effective cooperation.  “We are providing investments to ensure economic diversification,” he added. Iraq is cognizant of the fact that sustainable development will require ambitious investment in the future.  Iraq is also focused on promoting international relations based on the principles of mutual respect.  Diplomacy and dialogue are critical in achieving peace.  He went on to underscore the role of science and technology as a foundation of sustainable development.  Youth are the driving force of the future and Iraq is providing them an environment conducive to help promote their development.  He pledged Baghdad’s commitment to working with the international community for a better future.

MIA AMOR MOTTLEY, Prime Minister of Barbados, said:  “We come together as one human family, sharing one planet and building together a common future.”  She underscored the importance of interconnectedness in taking decisive steps to end the horrors faced by humanity and create new structures.  Past generations ended wars, dismantled slavery, ended apartheid, acted to stop genocide, declared all people equal, gave women the right to vote and ended colonialism.  It is vital to change the global governance structures rooted in the outcome of the Second World War, she pointed out, stressing that “what the world needs now is a reset”.  The failure to share the world’s resources will continue to drive humanity to war, social disintegration and migration and “condemn us to live in two separate worlds”. “Now is the time to choose hope and love over hate and division,” she said, adding that this does not require new technologies but action and humanity.  “We, the people of the world, have no other choice and no other planet to live,” she concluded.

NTSOKOANE SAMUEL MATEKANE, Prime Minister of Lesotho, said that the time has come to reflect on “the role of the United Nations in the twenty-first century”.  Asking whether the world still has faith in the Organization, he said that the United Nations should “endeavour to break traditional tendencies and employ innovative strategies to give practical meaning to the lofty aspirations of the global citizenry”.  To this end, the Summit of the Future presents an opportunity for the international community to revitalize and fortify the multilateral system, ensuring that the UN remains relevant and resilient.  “We must work together to defend multilateralism and resist inward-looking protectionist policies,” he urged, adding that the Summit represents an opportunity “to bring back hope to our respective nations”.  Turning to sustainable development and financing for development, he underscored the need to execute action-oriented strategies to accelerate implementation of the 2030 Agenda.  He further urged to keep a strong multilateral framework for peace and security in pace with the times as well as to close the digital divide.

MOHAMMED BIN ABDULRAHMAN BIN JASSIM AL-THANI, Prime Minister of Qatar, said that the 2030 Agenda and the achievement of the SDGs require more international, as well as national efforts.  “Our world is faced today with unsurmountable challenges that obstruct its economic development,” he added.  Wars and conflicts and the negative impacts of climate change are serious challenges, in particular for developing countries.  He stressed the importance reforming international financial institutions and bridging the digital gap.  Development cannot be achieved without the strong foundations of peace, security and stability.  To that end, Qatar is involved in many mitigation efforts, including currently between Israel and Palestine, alongside Egypt and the United States, to put an end to the catastrophic war on Gaza.  He also reiterated calls to reach a ceasefire agreement and the release of all hostages.

ANDREW HOLNESS, Prime Minister of Jamaica, said that small island developing States are particularly off-track to meet the SDGs. “We must redouble our efforts to address global poverty, inequality and food insecurity,” he stressed, noting the need to limit global temperature increase and deliver a future that fosters peaceful societies.  Humanity is facing unprecedented challenges to international peace and security, mainly driven by geopolitical motivations and transnational organized crime networks, he observed, adding that the Pact provides a framework “within which we can all coexist in peace and harmony”.

BJARNI BENEDIKTSSON, Prime Minister of Iceland, said that the Pact “pulls no punches in identifying the challenges before us and identifying the existential risks we face”.  “The Pact is also upfront about saying that the crisis has been caused, to a large extent, by our own choices,” he went on to say.  No organization — other than the United Nations — has the convening power at a time of conflict between and within many Member States.  Today, the world has agreed on a range of actions to close the sustainable development financing gap in developing countries, including by strengthening efforts to prevent and combat elicit financial flows, corruption and money-laundering.  Member States have also underlined the central place of human rights in just peaceful and inclusive societies.  “We have committed to respecting and protecting all human rights and fundamental freedoms,” he added, emphasizing the importance of protecting the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons (LGBTI+) communities.  Ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights is also vital, he added.

DIMITAR BORISOV GLAVCHEV, caretaker Prime Minister of Bulgaria, said that the Summit and the Pact for the Future — which embodies nearly 80 years of multilateral and national experience — will create a safer, more sustainable and equitable world.  Acknowledging the challenges of digital inequality, he advocated for increased investment in digital skills — especially for vulnerable populations — and quick adaptation to technological changes.  “Our goal is a free, secure digital world with universal Internet access,” he said, voicing support for the Global Digital Compact.  He further underscored the need to modernize the United Nations, including Security Council reform, to ensure its relevancy.

FUMIO KISHIDA, Prime Minister of Japan, stressed the importance of clear guiding principles in times where nations with diverse values must collaborate.  To this end, upholding the rule of law is critical, while unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force cannot be tolerated anywhere in the world. Underscoring that “human dignity” is the foundation for all international cooperation, he urged the international community to “invest in people”.  “Empowering women, children and youth is a top priority,” he said. Turning to the issue of non-proliferation, he stressed that the progress cannot be stopped no matter how “difficult the path to a world without nuclear weapons may be”.  Also, the reform of the Security Council is supported by most States, he said, urging for “concrete actions” towards the expansion of both permanent and non-permanent seats.  “World leaders must unite under the banner of multilateralism, empowering every individual so they can realize his or her full potential and build a better future,” he concluded.

TSHERING TOBGAY, Prime Minister of Bhutan, said humanity finds itself at a pivotal crossroads as it reaches the midpoint of the journey to the 2030 SDGs.  “Yet, our determination remains unwavering,” he added.  To realize such ambitious goals, the international community must muster the political will to transcend rhetoric and take decisive action.  “We must prioritize policies that serve the common good over narrow interests,” he added.  It is essential to guarantee that no country is left behind by providing innovative financing, equitable resource distribution and strong partnerships. “Success requires that we bridge the digital divide,” he went on.  Peace, security and human rights must be guaranteed for all peoples in all countries by ensuring a multilateral system that is both robust and responsive.  No nation can address global challenges in isolation, he added.

KAY RALA XANANA GUSMÃO, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, said that, “without peace, there are no conditions for development”.  However, peace is an abstract concept for many nations, he observed, noting that Western Sahara has been waiting for its referendum since 1992.  “International law has yet to reach this last colony in Africa, ignored and forgotten,” he added.  Further, the international community has yet to find multilateral solutions for a future of peace for many nations worldwide — from Palestine to Ukraine, from Yemen to Sudan, from the Central African Republic to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, from Afghanistan to Myanmar, and from Haiti to many other fragile and conflict-ridden countries.  “What kind of world are we living in, where we can fuel wars, but cannot feed children?”, he asked, pointing to thousands of deaths in the Mediterranean as people flee their homelands to escape conflict and poverty. “With this Pact for the Future, we hope the international community, especially world leaders, will approach this crisis with greater concern and sensitivity beyond the mere discussion of immigration issues,” he stressed.

K.P. SHARMA OLI, Prime Minister of Nepal, speaking in his capacity as Chair of the Group of the Least Developed Countries, said “nothing could be more unjust and unethical” than ignoring millions of people in least developed countries who live in extreme poverty, while a small minority of States “accumulates billions in wealth each day”.  “Is this the future we aspire to?”, he asked, urging the international community “to act now to ensure every child and young person has the chance to thrive”.  Highlighting severe economic challenges, the growing digital divide, as well as the impacts of climate change faced by the least developed countries, he said these States are “frustrated by the continuation of these severe structural impediments”.  “We must act now to pull the world back from the brink of catastrophe,” he stressed, calling for coordinated, comprehensive and science-based policies with least developed countries at the centre.  Lauding the adoption of the Pact for the Future, he said it “encapsulates the hopes and optimism” by reinstalling the interlinkages among peace and security, sustainable development and human rights.

ROBERT GOLOB, Prime Minister of Slovenia, said that the Pact for the Future is even more important as the world is facing “a bleak future”.  “Unless we can stop the wars, there is no common sustainable future,” he warned, urging to stop the aggression on Ukraine, Gaza, Palestine and all armed conflicts where civilians and kids are suffering.  Peace is “a vital condition” for effectively tackling the climate crisis, which can only be achieved through “trust, solidarity and global stability”, he stressed.  Turning to water diplomacy, he called for global partnerships to address the scarcity of water and the extreme weather in some regions of the world.  “Extreme weather is hitting us all,” he said, noting that using advanced technology cooperatively is “the only way forward”. Detailing a new “super advanced digital ecosystem” developed in Slovenia that links satellite data, supercomputing and artificial intelligence (AI) to predict water availability, he offered to build a global partnership and to utilize this advanced technology to ensure access to clean, sustainable and safe water for all.

KASSIM MAJALIWA MAJALIWA, Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania, said the future presents a vital opportunity to restore trust in the multilateral system and to commit to a sustainable future for all. The escalating climate crisis is a pressing reality, particularly for nations like the United Republic of Tanzania, where its impact is felt daily.  The United Republic of Tanzania is committed to global climate action and urges the international community to fulfil its duty regarding climate finance and technology transfer.  Global and regional partnerships are vital for achieving shared goals.  “We must foster solidarity and mutual respect in addressing climate change, advancing digital equity and promoting peace,” he added.

ALLAH MAYE HALINA, Prime Minister of Chad, spotlighted the unprecedented global challenges, including the dramatic consequences of climate change, which pose a direct threat to national and regional security. He also drew attention to major security challenges, such as the terrorist attacks of Boko Haram in the Lake Chad Basin region, forcing hundreds of thousands of people to leave their homes. The countries in the region also face persistent security challenges, he observed, adding that regional instability has direct repercussions on Chad — “the largest welcomer of refugees in the world”.  Against this backdrop, he underscored the need to strengthen mechanisms for international cooperation and guarantee sustainable and predictable financing for peacekeeping operations. 

EBBA BUSCH, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Business and Industry of Sweden, speaking as both a representative of her country and a mother, praised the fact that the Pact for the Future puts children’s rights “at the very centre”.  Noting that digital and emerging technologies are reshaping almost every aspect of the world, she spotlighted the Global Digital Compact — “the road map to a digital future” that is open, safe, secure, sustainable and inclusive. Sweden, alongside Zambia, led efforts to create the Global Digital Compact, she said, stressing its role in helping “close digital divides” and “turbocharge the Sustainable Development Goals”.  “A childhood in freedom requires safety online,” she said, adding that “at the very heart of this vision is the belief that technology, and in particularly AI, must serve humanity.”  Pointing out the extensive global needs and the growing funding gap, she emphasized the importance of reforming the international financial system to ensure fair representation and legitimacy, as well as the need for the Security Council to reflect today’s realities, including “seats for African nations”. Turning to global conflicts, she reaffirmed her country’s commitment to peace, describing Mosocow’s aggression against Ukraine as “an attack” on the very principles that uphold the United Nations.

ENRIQUE AUSTRIA MANALO, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, said the world is grappling with difficult decisions to stay the course in these days of complex crises and conflicts.  He called on Member States to recommit multilateralism with the United Nations at the centre, flourishing on the grounds of a rules-based order that provides conditions for trust, solidarity, equity and peace.  Respect for the rule of law safeguards global peace and security and enables the international community to confront complex current and future challenges together, he said.  It is a touchstone for all international efforts to resolve disputes, prevent conflicts, protect human rights and enhance global governance.  Preserving a rules based international order is a collective duty, he added.

SAYYID BADR BIN HAMAD BIN HAMOOD ALBUSAIDI, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Oman, underscoring the effectiveness of multilateralism, reaffirmed his country’s support for the Pact of the Future.  The challenges that the international community is facing cannot be addressed by traditional means alone; they require innovative approaches based on the concept of sustainable development.  “We have to act with wisdom and foresight,” he said, adding that it is essential to start implementing policies that focus on future generations.  Stressing that international peace and security are the most fundamental pillars for the stability of the world, he said “preventive diplomacy [is] the most effective tool to prevent and settle disputes”.  Young people are the agents of the future; his Government has therefore launched a number of initiatives and “innovation incubators” in science, industry, culture and sports, he said.

TAYE ATSKE-SELASSIE AMDE, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, noted that the Pact was negotiated amidst “great polarization” in international relations — “which doesn’t lend itself to the spirit of consensus and compromise” required to negotiate a global agenda.  This, he said, is the “main reason that the Pact had to limit itself to reiteration and emphasis of already agreed global goals and targets”.  While stressing that setbacks and regression in the implementation of the SDGs “require us to be more ambitious, not less”, he said that the Pact — if fully implemented — will “greatly enhance the fate of generations to come”.  However, the international community’s inability to converge on more-ambitious targets is “a stark reminder of the need for change”, he said, urging delegations to move from rivalry to cooperation, enhance tolerance for policy differences and work to attain the “most basic” global agenda.

ALEXANDER DE CROO, Prime Minister of Belgium, said that, today, the world faces accelerating climate change, pandemics and wars impacting millions of people.  “It is high time to deliver on our commitments,” he asserted, underlining the need to uphold commitments to the rule-based international order and respect and promote human rights, which are “backsliding globally”.  In particular, the freedom of expression must be ensured, while politicians must be held accountable.  Responding to today’s challenges means unlocking the potential of digital technologies, which are associated with immense potential and challenges, he emphasized.

MOHAMAD HASAN, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Malaysia, called on Member States to “galvanize holistic global governance, premised on humanity”.  Noting that, by 2050, the planet will be home to a population of 10 billion people, he asked:  “How will we feed the world then if we cannot do so now?”  While education is the tool to address inequality, millions of children in the Global South are deprived of this very fundamental right.  Stressing that the climate crisis “is not distant threat — it is here, it is real”, he called for action, backed by adequate climate financing, as well as technology transfer and innovation.  He urged the international community to work towards a green development pact “that robustly addresses the scientific and technological divide between the North and the South”, as well as a global science fund to “encourage diverse and innovative solutions to the challenges we face, leveraging on our collective human capital”.

BRUNO EDUARDO RODRÍGUEZ PARRILLA, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba, said that today the world is still suffering from the effects of colonialism and neo-colonialism.  “Our futurist debates continue while we are seeing a continuation of the genocide in Palestine without any effective response from the international community,” he stressed, adding that rising fascism, xenophobia and discrimination are fuelling hatred across the globe.  Calling for “less interference and more solidarity”, he emphasized the need for equity, cooperation and respect for the people’s inalienable rights to choose political and social systems.  To that end, the “criminal embargo imposed by the United States” against Cuba and the arbitrary inclusion of his country in the List of States-sponsors of Terrorism is the primary barrier to well-being and development.  Criticizing “opulent societies” for their unbridled consumerism that causes climate crisis and global inequality, he warned that without political will to provide necessary funds for sustainable development and to ease debt for millions of people, a decent future will remain “a utopia”.

ABDOULAYE BIO TCHANE, Minister of State responsible for development and coordination of Government action of Benin, said the world faces several crises in the areas of environment, health, geopolitics, finances and security.  This host of factors is not conducive to sustainable development.  He warned against so-called solutions that divide, separate, exclude and pose significant threats for coexistence, multilateralism and international cooperation. For its part, Benin is committed to achieving the SDGs via its various projects dedicated to forging growth and reducing poverty.  He went on to note his country’s progress in achieving the Goals.  Despite the world achieving significant technical advancements, there is still increasing poverty, he also added.  For Benin, the answer lies in multilateralism.

MULAMBO HAMAKUNI HAIMBE, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia, underscored the need to ensure international consensus on how to safeguard a better future, citing the Summit as an opportunity to reinvigorate multilateralism and tackle existing and emerging threats to the SDGs.  The international community must collaborate in addressing numerous threats —including economic shocks, climate crisis and widening digital divide — and confront violations of the Charter of the United Nations and international law, he asserted.  Also, with the global financing and investment gap, there is an urgent need to scale up action, he observed, noting that, between 2019 and 2021, “Zambia was one of the 25 African countries that spent more on interest payments than health”.

OLIVIER NDUHUNGIREHE, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Rwanda, said the Pact is a comprehensive, forward-looking document, the implementation of which will ensure that future generations inherit a world that is “not only sustainable, but also equitable and just.”  His country “understands only too well the importance of unity”, he said, adding that the Summit should be the beginning of transformative action.  Effectively addressing the challenges confronting the international community calls for an adaptive mindset, he said, adding that it is essential to embrace innovative solutions and build resilient systems and structures.  “Together let’s embark on transforming our aspirations into tangible realities,” he said, stressing the importance of addressing climate change, preparing for future pandemics and harnessing the power of technology. 

JOYELLE CLARKE, Minister for Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment of Saint Kitts and Nevis, pointed out that small island developing States grapple with the “poly-crises” of biodiversity loss, plastic pollution and climate change.  These challenges are accompanied by food insecurity and threats to health and national security, and she stressed that “the future we deserve” demands deep-rooted, transformative and lasting change. “For this, we must redefine multilateral spaces,” she stressed, also calling for unbiased international partnerships that honour small islands’ strength and resilience — “systems that respect and include all of our voices”.  Further, she urged those present to ground their decision-making in a critical assessment of “global historical patterns of disempowerment and exploitation, which constitutes progress for a few and underdevelopment for many”.  She underscored:  “It is time for all to prosper, regardless of size.”

MOHAMED ALI NAFTI, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Migration and Tunisians Abroad of Tunisia, stated that “the global situation continues to deteriorate”, especially for countries in the Global South.  This shows that international governance as envisaged at the end of the Second World War is incapable of addressing challenges and root causes.  The international community must shore up multilateral mechanisms and reiterate commitment to the principles of the UN Charter and international law — “including by taking a new approach to international cooperation for the common well-being of nations on the basis of equality, mutual respect and non-interference in internal affairs,” he said.  Affirming support for the Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact, he called upon developed countries “to make good on their commitments for financing and for sustainable development and climate action”, doing so by helping developing countries to overcome debt.

BADR AHMED MOHAMED ABDELATTY, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Emigration of Egypt, welcomed the adoption of the Pact of the Future, the Global Digital Compact and Pact for Global Generations, noting that with the exacerbation of global peace and security situations, there is a need for renewed commitment to the UN Charter and “not have double standards”. He reaffirmed his country’s trust in the international justice system, which, he observed, is tested by the international community’s impotence in resolving such issues.  Egypt is committed to the territorial integrity of Somalia and Sudan, whose situations, among other things, highlight the need to reform the global financial architecture and address existing imbalances which have left people behind.  Financing for development is key to prevent “additional burden on these countries”. His country promotes technological transfer by funding digital innovations and urges the global community to do everything to address water shortages and promote cooperation on climate matters.  He endorsed the call for a total removal of nuclear weapons to guarantee the safety of current and future generations.

MOHAMED MBAE, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Comoros, stressing the importance of renewing global solidarity, said sustainable development in least developed countries requires funding.  Calling on the international community to adopt an innovative and ambitious funding mechanism, he said that young people and women must be adequately resourced.  Universal social protection is crucial for protecting those who work in the informal labour market, he said, appealing to the countries of the North to implement the funding commitments they have made.  Also stressing the need to build bridges and restore the UN’s authority, he called for “knowledge partnerships” and scientific and technological cooperation. The digital revolution must benefit everyone and must be guided by inclusivity, ethics and accountability, especially in sensitive areas such as artificial intelligence, he added. 

LEJEUNE MBELLA MBELLA, Minister for Foreign Relations of Cameroon, said that the Pact just adopted is “a real gamble” on peace, sustainable development and human dignity for current and future generations. Because of the specific actions contained therein, the Pact is a suitable way of “guiding us towards the future we wish to see, the future that we have defined together”, he said. However, its effective implementation requires immediate action and a demonstration of renewed political will. Stressing that the international community’s challenges are growing in number and complexity — “particularly, they have been globalized” — he said that the future of humankind must be defined in this ever-changing digital world.  “Science and technology have indeed some of the best tools to achieve growth,” he observed, adding that the Pact brings these tools together “with unity, solidarity and humanity at its heart”.

KI-HWAN KWEON, Deputy Minister for Multilateral and Global Affairs of the Republic of Korea, called for harnessing the key priority areas of science, technology, and innovation in a way that promotes and protects human rights and serves peaceful purposes.  His Government is committed to advancing human-centred AI technology to drive progress.  Following the “AI Seoul Summit” in May, the Republic of Korea convened the “AI Global Forum” to push for the establishment of AI norms in the private sector, and also hosted the “Responsible AI in the Military Domain Summit 2024”, presenting a comprehensive blueprint for military AI norms.  He noted that in June, his delegation hosted an open debate on cybersecurity as President of the Security Council.  Further, Seoul has consistently increased its official development assistance (ODA), with an expansion of over 30 per cent in 2024 compared to 2023, and pledges to continue to expand ODA to Africa up to $10 billion by 2030.

The representative of Israel said his county continues to face relentless attacks even as the Summit is under way, with hundreds of rockets fired into its territories.  Israel will use all weapons at its disposal to protect its people. “We did not start this war, but we will protect our homes, our people and our nation,” he emphasized, stressing that the real story of Israel is that despite the immense challenges it faces, it utilizes technology for the advancement of human rights.  He challenged the global community on how it can work towards eliminating poverty and how technology can be deployed to help humankind instead of spreading hate.  “We cannot be paralysed by the enormity of this task,” he advised, noting that over the past year, antisemitism has escalated, but only through collective action can a lasting difference be made.  Israel believes that it cannot leave a legacy of fear and terror for future generations.  Noting that the challenges will not be easy to overcome, he called on the international community to come together, as “we can and we must meet our obligations”.

The representative of the Central African Republic said the Pact’s implementation is crucial for speeding up the achievement of the SDGs, preserving rights, peace and stability and improving global governance. The Pact is an invitation to leave behind the current deadlocked environment.  Noting the lack of action over the last 30 years, whether in working groups or in intergovernmental negotiations, he said that it is crucial to reform the Security Council to repair the historic injustice done to Africa. “I hope this Pact will not turn into the umpteenth lost opportunity,” he said, adding that his country’s development has been limited due to internal challenges related to its security situation and its landlocked nature.  The national development programme aims to build a prosperous country, and move from a situation of emergency to development.  The international community must free up the funding necessary for countries such as his to achieve their aspirations, he said.

The representative of Austria spotlighted the many things agreed on in the Pact, including:  establishing global cooperation on digital technology, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity; using the immense potential of space to drive sustainable development; accelerating climate commitments; and making concrete steps towards Security Council reform.  He also noted that portions of the Pact reflect Austrian priorities, including:  strengthening the rule of law and human rights; ensuring that nuclear weapons are never used again; and establishing legally binding regulation of autonomous weapons systems.  Stressing that the solution for global challenges lies in cooperation, dialogue and partnership, he said that — “in this spirit” — Austria is a candidate for a non-permanent Council seat in 2026.  He added that multilateralism “can only work with open minds”, urging delegations to come to the UN “not only to speak, but to listen”.

ALEKSANDAR VUČIĆ, President of Serbia, stated that it is incredible how the world’s most powerful countries “brutally violate the law of the United Nations, and more than anything, peace”.  In justifying their “big politics”, those States “speak about the just peace, which means that they should win, and that the other ones not only should lose, but they should be completely destroyed.”  While voicing support for the Pact for the Future, he called for more compromise for developing countries.  He further cited the need for balance between the Western point of view on the issue of the rule of law on one side, and the demands of numerous countries when it comes to family and traditional values.  While Serbia is a modern country, it is not ready to sacrifice its own traditional values, and “it will be capable of resisting all the attempts from the outside that the so-called woke movement is imposing,” he stated.

WILLIAM SAMOEI RUTO, President of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, said the call for bold reforms of the UN system to address rapidly evolving and increasingly complex global challenges is even more urgent today, adding that “without immediate action, humanity will face an unprecedented global crisis”.  There is therefore a need to redesign the international financial system, strengthen partnerships for common security, bridge the digital divide, and invest in human capacity, especially to empower women and youth.  He called for action to address the historical injustice of Africa’s lack of permanent representation on the Security Council in addition to region-led peace operations, sustainably funded by UN-assessed contributions. Highlighting Kenya’s contribution of troops to Haiti in support of the international security mission in that country and the ongoing success thereof, he noted that “what looked like mission impossible is now a present and real possibility for peace in Haiti”. Further, he called for a reform of the currently inadequate multilateral institutional framework.

GITANAS NAUSĖDA, President of Lithuania, calling on the international community to limit the Russian Federation’s ability to continue its colonial policies, expressed regret about the lack of a multilateral response to that country’s invasion of Ukraine.  “The United Nations must be empowered to stop and contain both present and future aggressors,” he stressed.  Noting that lack of resources poses a key obstacle to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, he said it is vital to create a global financial architecture that is “more equitable, just and responsive to crisis”.  Turning to the climate crisis, he called for more investment into renewable energy.  Highlighting the need to address challenges related to new and emerging technologies, he drew attention to the Council of Europe’s adoption of the first-ever Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law. 

FILIPE JACINTO NYUSI, President of Mozambique, said that multilateralism is “a safe vehicle to pursue our common global agenda”. It is not just a choice; rather, it is an imperative for addressing complex challenges.  Multilateral engagement is needed to implement the 2030 Agenda, he stressed, also underlining the need for a new international financial architecture that responds to the global challenges of poverty and underdevelopment.  Multilateralism, he said, is the best tool with which to address humanity’s complex, multiple challenges, and it is urgent to restore peoples’ confidence in international institutions and inclusive international law.  Spotlighting Africa’s youth, hardworking population, diversity and potential, he underscored that — if the international community is serious about promoting global prosperity — “it would be a total collapse” to exclude Africa “from the most-important circles of decision-making”.

GORDANA SILJANOVSKA-DAVKOVA, President of the Republic of North Macedonia, said that “decorative, or cosmetic reforms of the UN, with a status quo philosophy, or ‘flying without moving’, is not enough” — change must be structural, functional meritocratic, and democratic.  Voicing support for a stronger role for the International Court of Justice, she affirmed that its judgments must become binding for everyone.  As a representative of a small country, she called for increased participation for those States in the Security Council.  “Moreover, an end should be put to the disrespect, bypassing and selective application of the Charter, as in the Macedonian case,” she said.  As her country’s first female President, “I fiercely advocate for more women in the highest positions, and I am personally fulfilling these commitments,” she stressed. 

The summary of the statement by Carlos Manuel Vila Nova, President of Sao Tome and Principe, is not available due to the lack of interpretation.

ROBINAH NABBANJA, Prime Minister and Leader of Government Business in Parliament of Uganda, observed that major challenges caused by the “current unfair international economic order for developing countries have reached their most acute expression in current times”.  The Pact she hoped does not become “another futile exercise, but must garner political will and commitment across all levels of global leadership to pragmatically address current issues and lay a foundation for solutions for our future global progress and challenges”.  The anticipated future must offer opportunities and capacity for the Global South to catch up, a project which will require the international community’s commitment to practically implement all the agreed actions in the Pact for the Future.  Uganda is committed to the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and the Global Digital Compact, causing it to initiate an Annual Global Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence Governance under UN auspices, as well as an inclusive process towards international data governance arrangements, she added. 

FIAMĒ NAOMI MATA'AFA, Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade of Samoa, said that “small island States are not mere dots on a map, we are vibrant symphonies of life, rich with history and culture.”  Saving the smallest and most vulnerable is tantamount to saving the world, she stressed, adding:  “First and foremost, we must confront climate change.”  Coastal erosion and rising sea levels are not distant concerns for countries such as hers, she said, calling on the international community to “breathe life into the Paris Agreement”. 

“Beyond the immediate threats of climate change lies an economic tempest of its own,” she said, pointing to the swelling tide of debt, economic fluctuations and external shocks.  The reform of the international financial architecture to correct deeply entrenched imbalances is essential.  Turning to artificial intelligence and digital technologies, she said while these can be a gamechanger, small island developing States face significant access barriers.  Calling for assistance in bridging this digital gap, she said the international community must “share best practices and unlock new opportunities.”

JUSTIN TRUDEAU, Prime Minister of Canada, noted global instability, the increasingly dire costs of climate change, rising inequality, eroding human rights and humanitarian crises.  “On the one hand, we can bury our heads in the sand, eschewing multilateralism in favour of short-sighted self-interest, or we can recognize that, collectively, we have a responsibility to set our differences aside,” he said. For its part, Canada is working to build a generation where everyone “has a real and fair shot”, and he emphasized that the solution to peoples’ angst “is not to deceive and deflect”, but to act.  Therefore, the Government is working towards affordable child care, nutritious school meals, an ambitious housing plan, a national dental-care programme and a growth strategy that creates well-paying, community-building, middle-class jobs. However, noting that “climate change and inflation don’t stop at borders”, he said that the international community must together tackle the great global challenges working within institutions such as the United Nations.

FELETI TEO, Prime Minister of Tuvalu, noted that his country is a small Pacific atoll island nation, and also a large ocean State.  Tuvalu “carries the firm belief that we are only temporary stewards and caretakers of the ocean and the environment on behalf of future generations.”  However, he warned, “the ocean that used to define us as a people and as a community and as a nation, will soon engulf us if sea-level rise is not halted or the resilience of our land territory to sea-level rise is not reinforced.”   Tuvalu contributed negligibly, if at all, to the cause of climate change, and “that is how grossly unfair and inequitable the world we live in today” is, he said — with States that benefit the most from fossil fuel extraction accelerating their development and prosperity “at the expense of the most vulnerable States, which are left well and truly behind”.

DANIEL RISCH, Prime Minister, Minister for General Government Affairs and Minister for Finance of Liechtenstein, said his countrymen expect the United Nations to be the guardian of peace and security.  He lamented that five States hold the veto power in the Security Council and can block any decision, even when supported by an overwhelming majority of the international community.  He particularly highlighted the “level of absurdity” of the Russian Federation — a veto-wielding member — “far from acting as a guardian of the international order”, engaging in a blatant and far-reaching aggression against another State, thus “violating the core principles of our common organization”.  He urged Member States to stand against those attempting to roll back history, adding that by presenting the veto initiative, Liechtenstein has ensured “that a veto in the Council is no longer the last word”.  He encouraged the Secretary-General to play a more proactive role and to use the UN’s unique authority to mediate, prevent and address conflicts.

RALPH E. GONSALVES, Prime Minister and Minister for National Security, Legal Affairs and Information of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, noting that the multilateral system has been ill for a long time, said the international community is now poised to make “some surgical incisions” that hopefully can lead to healing.  Highlighting the current deficit of trust and recent geopolitical tensions, he said everyone is aware of the litany of vulnerabilities that small island developing States face as well as the historic issues that caused their legacies of underdevelopment.  Stressing the need to reform the outdated international financial architecture, he said countries such as his have to deal with the “millstone of crushing debt”. “Truth be told, the developed countries have been making a lot of promises to us and breaking them cynically,” he said, adding that the international community needs to take more ambitious action to address the climate crisis.  “Otherwise, all of us here are going to go to hell in a handbasket; you know it and I know it,” he added. 

MIHAI POPȘOI, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova, emphasized that the Russian Federation has waged a war of aggression against Ukraine — “in the middle of Europe” — for more than two years.  Condemning such aggression, he expressed support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and rejected any threat or use of force against any State — “which should have no place in international relations”.  He also stated that the Russian Federation’s aggressive policy “generates significant negative effects” for his country, including hybrid threats such as cyberattacks, misinformation campaigns, disruptions to public order and meddling in electoral processes.  Underlining his Government’s commitment to achieve a peaceful settlement in the Transnistria region, he said that this will include the evacuation of foreign troops and munitions and a consolidation of independence and State sovereignty.  He also urged that the Pact not become “just another UN document that is adopted and forgotten”.

SALEUMXAY KOMMASITH, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Lao People’s Democratic Republic, voiced concern over the increased SDG financing gap, citing “the urgency to provide predictable, sustainable, and adequate development finance from diverse sources to developing countries, particularly the poorest and most vulnerable ones”.  He called for actionable financing frameworks, including the SDG Stimulus, ODA, and private sector investments.  Welcoming the adoption of the Global Digital Compact, he expressed support for bridging the science, technology and innovation divides.  With 60 per cent of the total population of his country under the age of 30, it “has one of the youngest demographics in South-East Asia, presenting a significant opportunity for economic and social development through the engagement of young people”, he stated. He further called for urgent reform of international financial institutions “so they can be more inclusive and reflective of today's economic needs and political realities”.

GUYLAIN NYEMBO MBWIZYA NYEMBO MBWIZYA, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Planning and Development Aid Coordination of the Democratic Republic of Congo, said poverty and hunger, conflicts, and the rise of extremism in the world offer a window of opportunity for a better tomorrow.  When the UN was conceived 78 years ago nothing suggested that the future would be presented with such a scenario in which its essence would be called into question.  The Pact for the Future is an “excellent opportunity for the global community to embrace a new paradigm”, he noted, adding that room should be given for action and the safeguarding of humanity’s common good for the planet. The Democratic Republic of Congo is therefore undertaking massive investments in education, health care, women’s empowerment, research and technological innovation, he announced, observing that there will be no envisaged future if Africa does not have its rightful place in the Organization with two permanent Security Council seats, or there is no adequate financing for the SDGs.  There will be no real future as well without climate justice or “when we can still hear weapons being fired”, he said.

ALICIA BÁRCENA IBARRA, Secretary of Foreign Affairs of Mexico, said the Summit is a good moment to acknowledge the crisis of legitimacy that the United Nations is facing.  Highlighting her country’s commitment to serve as a bridge between different schools of thought, she added that since 1945, the world has changed radically, from new technologies to shifting centres of power.  Multilateralism must overcome “nationalist partial views”, she said, highlighting the need to respect the principle of common but differentiated responsibility.  Noting proposals made by her country during negotiations for the Pact, she said they were aimed at moving towards substantive gender equality and addressing environmental degradation, among others.  “We want the world to be inclusive and representative,” she said, stressing the need for Council reform, including elimination of the veto.

ABDULLATIF BIN RASHID AL ZAYANI, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bahrain, underlined the need to work towards fair and sustainable development, wider access to science and technology for all countries, youth empowerment, cooperation to end conflicts and support for the principles of international law.  For its part, Bahrain worked to ensure that the thirty-third Arab Summit — which it hosted in May — would result in a “valuable outcome”.  There, “all Arab leaders agreed on the need to end the Israeli-Arab conflict” by implementing a two-State solution and establishing a sovereign, viable Palestinian State, he recalled.  He also noted support for Palestine’s full UN membership.  Further recalling commitments expressed during the Summit to counter the “wider humanitarian and political challenges facing our world”, he detailed several initiatives such as those aimed at providing increased access to health care and education for those affected by conflict.

YUSUF MAITAMA TUGGAR, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, noted that only about 16 per cent of SDG targets are on track to be achieved, calling for “real willingness to fulfill outstanding commitments with the remaining 84 per cent of the SDG targets for 2030.  He outlined a list of priorities, including reform of the Security Council to ensure a permanent seat for Africa, along with reform of international financial architecture to promote an inclusive non-discriminatory and transparent international trading system. Further, it is crucial to support local Indigenous production and export from Africa and strengthen measures to ensure timely repatriation of illicit financial flows and assets.  Calling for adoption of a UN framework convention on international tax cooperation, he urged the international community to commit to bridging the digital divide between the Global North and South through technology sharing and capacity-building, including in areas such as artificial intelligence.

ALBERT SHINGIRO, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation of Burundi, noting the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, wars, geostrategic positioning and trade tensions, said the world today seems to be walking further away from the ideals of peace and security.  Collective rules are regularly flouted, leading to muscle diplomacy.  Wondering what can consequently be expected other than the weakening of multilateralism and greater inequality with the rich getting richer and poor getting poorer, he nevertheless urged the international community to not become discouraged but tackle these problems today and spare future generations from the scourge of war.  He called for recent international agreements to be respected in the areas of digital security, the fight against exclusion and reform of global governance architecture. Burundi is committed to the Pact for the Future.  However, signing and implementing a pact are different things.  He therefore underscored the need for joint political will, respect for commitment at all levels and the salvaging of multilateralism, adding that the Pact must not be another document but a “kind of compass which guides us together into a peaceful, inclusive and prosperous world to benefit current and future generations”.

HUSSEIN AWAD ALI, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sudan, stressing the importance of reforming the United Nations, said all countries must adhere to the United Nations Charter.  The international community must avoid highlighting some principles of the Charter while ignoring others.  Stressing the importance of respecting State sovereignty, territorial integrity and ensuring non-use of force, he said that there are double standards in their implementation.  “Certain legal mechanisms are used to achieve political objectives,” he said, pointing to the challenges posed by sanctions on countries such as his.  Also calling for reform of the international financial architecture, he said technology transfer is vital.

CARLOS PINTO PEREIRA, Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Communities of Guinea-Bissau, said that his country — “as does all countries in development” — faces significant poverty, food insecurity and the negative effects of climate change.  Yet, with the support of the international community, “we can implement innovative solutions that will benefit not only our country, but the region and the world”, he emphasized.  Stressing that education is the basis for a more-prosperous future, he said that all children must be able to access learning.  Youth — “the force of our future” and the “leaders of tomorrow”, he noted — must be given the opportunities and tools necessary to fully contribute to their societies.  Further, they must be involved in decision-making processes. The Summit of the Future, he concluded, is a “turning point”, during which concrete measures can be adopted to ensure that “all countries — independent of size and economic growth — can have a say in our common future”.

ABDOULAYE DIOP, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Mali, citing the “cowardly terrorist acts” of 17 September in his country, reaffirmed its commitment to the principles of non-interference in the internal affairs of States, and the sovereign equality of States. He called on the international community to “act together to renew our commitment for thoroughgoing change to the multilateral system that has governed world affairs up until now”.  In this regard, it is essential that decisions “meet the aspirations of our peoples, particularly those of the Global South”.  It is also essential to mobilize the courage to proceed to reform multilateral institutions, particularly the Security Council and international financial institutions, “in order to adapt them to the realities of our time, so that they are more inclusive, more just, but above all more representative”, he stated.

RAMADAN ABDALLAH MOHAMMED GOC, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity of South Sudan, said his country, as a young nation still recovering from crises, is committed to create a future of peace and dignity for all.  He called upon the international community to support efforts for peace, dialogue and reconciliation in his country and everywhere else.  Highlighting climate change as one of the most urgent threats with dire effects in South Sudan, he called for solidarity in addressing this issue by investing in agriculture, renewable energy and environmental conservation to secure a resilient future for the people of the world.  He said his country is committed to empowering its young people and diversification of its economy, also seeking partnerships that encourage inclusive economic growth, job creation and infrastructure development. He further expressed his Government’s commitment to creating a world where all people have opportunity to thrive.

The representative of the African Union said the international community must embrace solidarity instead of hostility, respect instead of scorn and sharing instead of exclusion.  Unfortunately, in recent times, multilateralism has been eclipsed by unilateralism and power struggle, he said, rejecting this approach and stressing the need to renew State confidence in multilateralism.  The Union has defended this policy, he said, adding that the actions recommended by the Pact, particularly the Global Digital Compact, are in line with the aspirations of its 2063 Agenda.  The implementation of the action plans created by the Union has been hobbled significantly by the scarcity of financing, he said.  “Let’s hope the wealthy keep their promises this time,” he said.

DIANA ELENA MONDINO, Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship of Argentina, said that her country “has decided to operate a society where people are responsible for their actions, but can act in freedom”.  Further, the Government wants to address the challenges of terrorism and threats to democracy, international security and economic development and, in this, takes as its guide the Charter of the United Nations.  Deviations from the purposes and principles of that instrument “create problems”, she emphasized — “not just for a given country, that loses its own freedom, but also for those countries interacting with that country”. Reporting that her country has conducted a “realistic diagnosis” and begun a serious reform process, she said that Argentina will open to the world and commit “to be one of the freest countries of the international community”.  She also pointed out that the Pact consists of non-legally binding aspirations, which every State can interpret autonomously. 

The representative of the International Development Law Organization affirmed that the rule of law is critical to rebuilding public trust, as “the unmet demand for justice is at the root of multiple crises around the globe”.  The rule of law helps ensure fairness, accountability, and transparency, while people-centred justice systems protect the rights of the least powerful and give people confidence that institutions are working in the interest of all rather than a privileged few.  “The inclusion of women, youth and other historically excluded groups is essential for the whole-of-society approaches needed for lasting peace and sustainable development,” she stated.  Further, the rule of law is key to reinvigorating and repurposing multilateralism for the twenty-first century.  She emphasized that at the international level, as enshrined in the UN Charter, the rule of law guarantees the sovereign equality of Member States and is the basis for the preservation of international peace and security.

The representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) wondered how people outside the General Assembly Hall would receive the Pact.  He highlighted the Programme’s efforts on sustainable development financing and its support for countries, also shaping new SDG financing.  UNDP’s global support continually provides a pathway for people to enjoy clean water, digital technologies and have hope for the future, he said.

The representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) said that health is not created in clinics and hospitals; it is created in streets and homes and schools and communities and parliaments.  When people need care, they must be able to access health services when and where they need it without facing financial hardships, he stressed.  The WHO pandemic agreement offers a shared approach to shared threats, he said, adding that it does not give his organization any undue sovereignty giving it the power to impose lockdowns or vaccine mandates.  “This is fake information,” he said, adding that the agreement is being negotiated by Member States, and will be implemented in full accordance with national laws. Highlighting WHO’s efforts to meet the health needs of refugees and host communities in Sudan, he added:  “But what the people of Sudan, Gaza and Ukraine need more than aid is a ceasefire”.  There is no health without paece and no peace without health.

The representative of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), stating that “today, multilateralism received a boost”, said that the agency is committed to supporting the Summit’s outcome by focusing on practical solutions to respond to conflict and crisis, deliver sustainable development and advance climate action.  Further, UNOPS is ready to leverage its experience in infrastructure, procurement and project management to “bridge the gap that exists between ambitions and reality on the ground”, he said.  Stressing that “our future hangs in the balance”, he urged collective, responsible and decisive action to deliver peace and prosperity for both people and planet.

The representative of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) recalled that “the landmark outcomes of all major conferences this year are telling us the same story:  To achieve the SDGs, developing countries need to invest in transforming their economies and industrialize.”  He noted that countries that do industrialize are making the biggest strides in poverty eradication, ending hunger and wealth creation, emphasizing that “every job in manufacturing creates on average 2.5 jobs in other sectors of the economy”.  He pointed out that industry is already a driver of green innovation today, with industrial firms holding nearly 60 per cent of green patents globally.  Calling on the Summit to help to set standards for the global economy, he insisted that “fair and sustainable supply chains are a must”.  In addition to flagship initiatives on industrial deep decarbonization and green hydrogen, he noted that UNIDO has launched new ones such as the Global Alliance and Partnership for Responsible and Green Minerals.

The representative of the Sovereign Order of Malta said the global community should never lose sight of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged groups in society, as “‘leaving no one behind’ must represent an imperative for the whole international community”.  No economic and social progress can occur without the strengthening of multilateral cooperation centred around the UN.  He renewed his appeal for respecting international humanitarian law, and highlighted Ukraine and Gaza as recipients of his country’s most significant emergency operations.  The Sovereign Order attaches utmost importance to the goal of promoting and safeguarding religious freedoms, religions and dialogues amongst them, as the work of faith-based organizations can be powerful vehicles of conflict mediation, social advancement, and sustainable development.  “Together, we can accelerate progress towards a future where dignity, human rights, access to health and education are realities for all, leaving no one behind,” he said.

The representative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said that the international community can help refugees and internally displaced persons shape their future — “especially those for whom it brings fear as much as hope”.  The doors of schools and clinics must be opened to such individuals “so that they can contribute to the communities hosting them while we work together to find solutions to their plight”, he urged.  All stakeholders should work towards a vision where refugees are seen as an opportunity — not a burden — he stressed, and one where such individuals “can think of a future in which they are not refugees”.

The representative of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) stated that “there can be no sustainable future, no economic stability without a healthy environment” — requiring a shift to a world in which humanity lives in harmony with nature, with healthy lands, water and oceans, with stable climate, free of pollution.  She called on humanity to sustainably and equitably use resources, pointing to commitments already made to deliver that shift in many multilateral agreements.  Citing the three planetary crisis — climate change, nature and biodiversity loss and desertification, and pollution and waste, she pointed to negotiations on an instrument to end plastic pollution.  The Programme calls on all Member States “to do their utmost to forge a strong impactful agreement and quickly move to the adoption, ratification and implementation to deliver on all agreements and strengthen sustainable development”.

The representative of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) said the delivery of the Pact for the Future by Member States has “sent a powerful message to the world that our future is digital — that we can and must write it together”, adding that, as the UN agency for digital technologies, ITU “will be with you every step of the way”.  She noted that digital divides can no longer be tolerated in an age of unimaginable digital opportunities, with one third of humanity still unconnected — without a voice.  Radio-frequency spectrum and associated satellite orbit resources must therefore be shared equitably and sustainably for all of humanity as well as strengthening of international standards.  “As we look to 2030, let’s turn the vision of the Pact for the Future and its Global Digital Compact into a lasting reality”, she encouraged, calling for a redoubling of efforts to advance universal meaningful connectivity and sustainable digital transformation.

The representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), spotlighting the more than 730 million people worldwide who faced hunger in 2023, underscored that the international community is “not on track to achieve any of the global SDG targets”.  Huge inequality persists, and the future will be determined by the emergence of more-equitable agrifood systems.  Urging a focus on innovative, cost-effective investment to achieve the 2030 Agenda, he said that “hunger can be defeated” through collaboration and by leveraging comparative advantages.

The representative of the Council of Europe stressed that its “current priority is to support Ukraine, which is one of our Member States.  At the beginning of the year, the register of damage became fully operational - a register that receives contributions for the loss and damage caused by the war of aggression waged by the Russian Federation.  This is a first tool, but absolutely necessary as a step toward an international mechanism for compensation.  “We will play a key role when it comes to any tribunal aiming to judge the crime of aggression,” he stated, noting the Council will work to implement a plan of action for resilience, recovery and reconstruction.  The European Convention of the European Court human rights is the only international jurisdiction that as of now has ruled on human rights violations in the context of the war, but he pointed to other tools — including the Istanbul Convention to Prevent and Combat Domestic Violence and Violence Against Women.

DAREN TANG, a representative of the World Intellectual Property Organization, reminding the Summit that “it is often in times of crises that we are at our most innovative” urged Member States to not lose hope.  The power of human invention, innovation and creativity must be harnessed to build a more resilient, prosperous and sustainable future. As intellectual property shifts from a technical area of interest only to experts to an increasingly important cornerstone of economic and trade policy, and a catalyst for growth and development, WIPO is transforming the global intellectual property regime so that it is more inclusive and vibrant.  Noting that intellectual property is not just about technical laws, but also a catalyst for progress, opportunity, and sustainability, he expressed WIPO’s pledge to work with everyone to harness the power of innovation and creativity to support the aims of the Summit.

The representative of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said that successive generations of people have moved in search of a better life — “and we know many more will move in the future”.  Investing in safe, regular and orderly pathways for migration can help reduce irregular migration, accelerate inclusive growth, strengthen decent work, bridge demographic shifts and labour gaps and foster sustainable development, she emphasized.  She added that all States share a collective responsibility to protect and respect the human rights of all migrants, underlining IOM’s commitment to support people on the move.

The representative of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean announced concrete initiatives including the creation of a permanent Parliamentary Observatory of the Global South for the SDGs, based in and managed by Morocco.  He further cited the creation of a permanent Global Parliamentary Observatory on the misuse of AI and emerging technologies that will be a platform for monitoring, analyzing and promoting effective legislation principles and criteria “so that these tools are not used by terrorists and criminal groups for their own malicious purposes but for the benefit of all humanity”. 

The representative of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) said the future to be inherited by the next generation “depends on the choices we now make”.  Observing that of the region’s 53 members, only one remains low-income, and five of the original 14 least developed countries remain so at the end of the decade, she said ESCAP’s trajectory towards sustainable development, despite being uneven, has been an undeniable success.  However, a future with even greater possibilities “calls for a transformative change to this model of development”, she quickly pointed out. The region must reduce its carbon emissions by all possible means and maximize its human resources.  She stressed the critical need to create an equitable social security system and address financing gaps with debt servicing and mobilization of private sector investment.  The region’s youth, she said, must “see possibilities, participate in decision-making and seize opportunities before them”.

The representative of the Economic Commission for Europe, stressing that “we are doing this for the children”, said the international community must invest in education.  When the youth of today have to take decisions tomorrow, they will know to put environmental and social concerns before economic or political gains.  Underscoring the need for an inclusive approach, she said the actions to implement the Pact will need to be taken by people of all ages, by women and men, by communities, by local and regional authorities.  “They are on the front lines,” she said, adding that States must enable them, trust them and partner with them.

The representative of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria stressed that, in a world where about 4.5 billion people are not fully covered by essential health services, “now is not the time to shy away from commitments” to bolster progress towards universal health coverage.  Global health must stay at the centre of the international agenda, and she welcomed the Pact’s focus on climate change as “the biggest global health challenge of our time”.  The phenomenon is destabilizing the foundations of human health, deepening inequality and leading to the emergence and spread of infectious diseases.  Noting that the Global Fund is an “example of partnership powered by equity”, she expressed hope for broadened multilateralism to create a healthier and more peaceful world.

The representative of the Latin America and Caribbean Development Bank said multilateral banks and regional ones need to be strengthened at all levels to meet current challenges.  Therefore, the international financial architecture must be efficient in deploying greater resources to achieve sustainable development, he said, noting that the Global South requires “differentiated approaches and innovative flexible solutions” with appropriate financing.  With greater capital, his Bank would be able to increase resources as a reliable channel to tackle specific challenges.  “We will continue in our role to assist countries by optimizing their tax systems, easing their debt burdens and increasing investment,” he committed.

The representative of the International Labour Organization (ILO) said the world needs a more equitable distribution of economic resources and universal access to social protection.  In order to achieve this, it is crucial to involve non-State actors such as workers’ and employers’ organizations.  Citing his  organization’s constitution, he added that social justice is imperative to lasting peace. Noting that the Pact calls for global governance reform and financing for development, he reminded delegates that in 2023, 20 per cent of young people were neither in employment or education or training.  Further, 3.8 billion people have no access to any single social protection, he said, reaffirming his organization’s commitment to a more equitable world. 

The representative of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation underlined the need for enhanced, revitalized global partnerships to address shared resourcing and investment gaps in implementing the 2030 Agenda.  Noting that each region has its own cultural, economic and environmental context, he said that it is essential to “tailor our approaches to fit these diverse landscapes”. Further, the resources available must be increased by combining traditional development assistance with innovative financing solutions.  “The linkage between global prosperity and South Asia cannot be overemphasized,” he concluded, spotlighting the region’s “immense potential for global prosperity”.

The representative of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-building Measures in Asia said the Summit represents a moment of introspection for the global community, adding that interactions among nations with diverse backgrounds within environments of trust, mutual respect, and equal footing contribute to the SDGs.  His organization’s Conference on Environmental Issues, held in August, adopted a high-level statement that reflects Member States’ dedication to advancing collaboration in addressing critical environmental issues.  In December, the partnership network of the Conference’s leading universities will be established at the Ministerial Council Meeting in Baku.  He highlighted the crucial nature of organizations like his to addressing global challenges at the regional level, opining that “together, we can build a resilient and sustainable future”.

The representative of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization said it is an association of 26 countries with various statuses and represents over half the population of the world, as well as a quarter of its surface area.  The organization is committed to “the principle of openness and the Shanghai spirit”, which means mutual trust, respect for cultural diversity and striving for development, he said.  Rejecting a confrontational or bloc-based approach, he said that given the tectonic changes in global policies at the moment, the best response is to unify efforts to shape a more representative, democratic and multipolar world. 

The representative of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) pointed out that 21 African countries are either in — or at high risk of — debt distress.  Basic social expenditures are being crowded out, there is limited access to long-term concessional finance and unprecedented climate effects cost up to 5 per cent of Africa’s annual gross domestic product (GDP).  “Yet, we cannot attract sufficient investments” because the rules of engagement do not favour Africa, he reported, noting that Africa’s borrowing costs are four times higher than the United States’ and more than four times higher than Germany’s.  Stressing that “justice for Africa cannot be served” by an outdated global financial architecture, he also called for an international tax cooperation framework to be finalized and implemented.

The representative of the International Olympic Committee said that despite geopolitical tensions, the Committee was able to bring athletes from all around the world, including refugees, to the Olympic games, during which they all lived peacefully, eating together without any form of discrimination.  These athletes “created a culture of peace, showing how our world would be if we all were to live in the Olympic spirit of peaceful coexistence”, he said, highlighting that this was the first Olympic games with full gender parity, and with a record number of 37 refugee participants winning their first-ever Olympic medal.  He revealed that the 2024 games in Paris emitted 50 per cent less carbon dioxide emissions than past games.  The Committee is promoting the role of sport as an important enabler and accelerator of the SDGs and is ready to strengthen the contribution of sports in the framework of the Pact for the Future because the Pact “perfectly reflects our Olympic motto:  faster, higher, stronger together”, he concluded. 

The representative of the Inter-American Development Bank said the current pivotal moment demands “youthful energy and relentless pursuit of dreams”.  Climate change is fueling biodiversity loss, creating “a horrible feedback loop”, as exemplified by historic drought in the Amazon.  It is essential to turn challenges into opportunities, he said, adding that the international community must embrace innovative solutions to build the foundation for growth and prosperity.

The representative of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) emphasized that “there is hardly anything new in the Pact that we have not committed ourselves to in the past under the UN and other frameworks.”  For ECOWAS, the difference between the Pact for the Future and earlier global agreements will lie in delivering on commitments in the areas of peace and security, sustainable socioeconomic development, climate change and climate justice, as well as youth empowerment.  “It will also mean concrete action to promote and support our regional unity not our disunity, our integration not our disintegration, and a commitment not to turn Africa, especially West Africa into a zone of proxy conflicts,” he stressed.  Another failure will mean that “history will look back to this summit not as the summit of the future but a summit of the past.”

The representative of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) said today was “a defining moment in human history”.  In leading the Arab region through an era of rapid global change, the Commission is integrating intelligent technologies and foresight methodologies into policymaking processes, transforming how Governments forecast trends, assess risks, and make informed decisions that are proactive rather than reactive.  Through advanced policy simulation tools and data-driven insights, “we are equipping our member States to design policies that are not only resilient and inclusive, but also aligned with the long-term aspirations of their people,” she said.  The Commission will champion the development of inclusive digital economies that empower youth and women, driving the economic diversification essential for the region’s long-term stability and prosperity.  “This is our moment to act with vision, to lead with courage, and to turn the promise of the Pact for the Future into a reality,” she stated.

The representative of the Common Fund for Commodities noted that “commodities are the lifeblood of many economies” — especially in developing nations, where billions of smallholder farmers at the lowest income levels depend on commodities and commodity-related jobs for their livelihoods. Commodities have the potential to fuel sustainable economic growth, generate jobs and provide vital revenues, while paving the way for a greener, more equitable world.  However, when mismanaged, these very commodities can become sources of environmental devastation, social injustice and economic fragility.  “Therefore, it is our moral duty to ensure that justice and ethics are woven into every step of the commodity value chain, transforming them into forces that uplift societies,” he stated.  The Fund has supported 127 projects in least developed countries alone, with a total value of about $189 million and the direct contribution of $105 million, improving the livelihoods of countless farmers and smallholders. 

The representative of the African Development Bank Group, highlighting the establishment of the Africa Credit Rating Agency, said the global financial system does not protect his continent from the contagious effects of world-wide economic shocks.  Africa is the only region of the world without a financial safety net, he said, adding that it is critical to establish a financial stability mechanism to address this. Also drawing attention to the need to deploy risk instruments at scale to bring more investments to Africa, he said this is essential to tackle the rising insecurity. 

The representative of the United Nations Capital Development Fund stated that the SDG financing gap continues to widen, threatening to leave behind those below the poverty line, particularly in least developed countries, small island nations and many other fragile settings.  The Fund is “the only UN fund capable of deploying inclusive blended finance solutions at the pace and scale needed to crowd in private streams of finance at the last mile,” he said.  It responds to this call by enhancing its unique capabilities to amplify the impact of the UN system and the wider development community.  As a non-credit rated hybrid development and finance institution, the Fund is designed to absorb and reduce the high risks that make access to sustainable capital simply unattainable, catalysing investments that otherwise would be unbankable.  “You can see the impact is felt in fragile developing countries around the world today,” he stated.