Warning Time Is Running Out, Small Island Developing States Demand Urgent Action to Address Climate Crisis They Did Not Create, as General Debate Continues

As the General Assembly’s annual high-level debate continued into its fourth day, the leaders of many small island developing States took the podium to repeat a warning they have been sounding for decades — that the international community must urgently act to support nations suffering the consequences of a crisis they did not create and cannot weather alone.

“Our islands are on the frontlines of a climate catastrophe we did not cause, a debt crisis we did not create and conflicts in which we have no part,” stressed Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda.  It is absurd, he added, that — meanwhile — Governments subsidize the industries accelerating the climate crisis.  Therefore, he called for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty to halt the reckless destruction of the environment, end such subsidies and chart a course towards a sustainable future.  Also detailing the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for small island developing States — adopted in his country earlier in 2024 — he said that the Agenda is “not just a roadmap for the future — it is a lifeline for now”.

“If ever there was a time to pause and reset, it is now,” stated Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, urging global institutions to give developing countries — especially small vulnerable ones — “seats at the tables of decision-making” so they can “become active agents in our cause and lead our development paradigms”.  This reset must also be characterized by institutional reform that starts at the United Nations and extends to international financial institutions.  Amid a climate crisis that is “hitting us almost weekly across the globe”, she called on deniers to “admit the absolute necessity of collective action to save our way of life and our planet”.

Echoing that sentiment, Charlot Salwai Tabimasmas, Prime Minister of Vanuatu, said:  “The window for real action to restore the health of this planet is fast closing on all of us.”  Noting that his country sought an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice requesting clarification on States’ legal obligations regarding climate change, he said that this initiative “is not about naming or shaming any particular nation”.  Instead, it seeks to provide a foundation for climate justice through a shared understanding of responsibility and accountability.  He also spotlighted his Government’s formal proposal of “an independent crime of ecocide” before the International Criminal Court.

Also expressing support for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty was Feleti Penitala Teo, Prime Minister of Tuvalu, who said: “Phasing out fossil fuels is crucial to global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and curb global warming.”  Climate-change-induced sea level rise, meanwhile, is not only a top development priority for Tuvalu, he stressed, but a “top survivability priority”. Noting current predictions that more than 50 per cent of Tuvalu’s land will be regularly flooded by tidal surges by 2050 as “frighteningly disturbing”, he added that, 50 years later, more than 90 per cent of his country’s land will suffer the same fate.

For Pacific nations, this change is not merely an environmental issue; it is an existential threat that jeopardizes their very existence, said Siaosi 'Ofakivahafolau Sovaleni, Prime Minster of Tonga:  “This is not just about losing land, it is about our very identities.”  Spotlighting the Pacific Islands Forum’s 2023 declaration on the continuity of Statehood, he said that the declaration’s assertion of the continued existence of Pacific Islands’ Statehood, sovereignty, rights and duties “underscores our determination to safeguard both the territorial and human dimensions of our States under international law”.  Urging the international community to put its stated desire to “leave no one behind” into practice, he said:  “The advancement of one community or nation cannot occur in isolation from the well-being of others.”

When waters rise in the South, even the North will eventually drown; when forests burn in the North, the South too will choke from the smoke, concurred Terrance Michael Drew, Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis.  He also provided another example of the tangible effects of climate-change-induced sea level rise, reporting that hoteliers have warned his Government that they may soon no longer be able to market themselves as beach resorts.  The sands, that once beckoned visitors from around the world, are now being swallowed by rising seas.  Underscoring that small island developing States know too well the cost of inaction, he said:  “We are small, yes, but our voices carry the weight of rising seas, thundering storms and livelihoods teetering on the edge of erasure.”

Adding one such voice, Philip Davis, Prime Minister of the Bahamas, said that while States “can somehow quickly find eye-watering sums of money for bullets and bombs”, they only “rattle small change in their pockets” to finance the costs of repair and recovery.  However, he emphasized that climate change is not merely an environmental threat, but a threat multiplier:  “If we think we have refugee challenges now, do we really want to wait until millions more are forced to cross borders just to survive?”  Noting that small island developing States are not asking for a hand-out but for a hand-up, he said:  “Even the strongest swimmer drowns if left alone in a raging sea.”

Also calling for efforts to address the deficit in climate finance, James Marape, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, stated:  “The pursuit of wealth has caused man to plunder Earth of its resources beyond the threshold of sustainability.”  Ocean nations live with climate-change-induced sea-level rise and weather-pattern changes, which have become an existential threat, he observed, urging the UN to tackle the challenge of accessing climate finance.  Otherwise, he said, “we will utilize our rights to liquidate our forest and marine resources to achieve our development aspirations”.

However, the leaders of small island developing States — despite their own crises — did not focus solely on the issues affecting their lands and people.  Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, expressed regret over the proliferation of war despite global instruments of international law, diplomacy and multilateral cooperation for the peaceful resolution of disputes.  The conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine should immediately cease, he urged.  Others joined him, especially regarding the former.  Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan, warned that Israel threatens to “drag the entire Middle East into a war”.  In the same vein, Robert Golob, Prime Minister of Slovenia, said that “the region is at the brink of an abyss” and called for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon. 

Coming to the UN personally “to set the record straight”, Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel, said that — in the aftermath of the “unimaginable” atrocities committed by Hamas on 7 October 2023 — his country has been forced to defend itself on six more fronts organized by Iran in Lebanon, Yemen, Syria and Iraq.  “Strike us, we will strike you; there is no place in Iran that the long arm of Israel cannot reach, and that is true of the entire Middle East,” he warned in response to Iran’s first-ever direct assault on Israel.  He urged States to do everything in their power to ensure Tehran never gets nuclear weapons and the UN to “snap back” sanctions against it.  Asserting that the war can come to an end only if Hamas surrenders and releases all hostages, he rejected “any rule for Hamas in a post-war Gaza”.

Statements

ROBERT GOLOB, Prime Minister of Slovenia, said that in times of wars, climate catastrophes, increasing inequalities and deepening polarization, the adoption of Pact for the Future was “a rare flicker of unity”. Noting the gradual but steady erosion of the power of rules, he criticized the Security Council’s inability to respond effectively to major conflicts, including those in Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan.  In Ukraine, he said, “if we are to let this aggression pass, we open doors to many similar wars across the globe.”  In Gaza, almost four months since the Council’s resolution on a ceasefire and the hostages, a deal is nowhere close.  Concurrently, in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, violence and dehumanization of Palestinians have reached a boiling point.  “The region is at the brink of an abyss,” he asserted, adding that de-escalation is urgently needed, starting with the ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon. He also pointed to the man-made humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan, with millions displaced and in desperate need of humanitarian aid.

“Why has the UN Security Council failed humanity,” he asked, adding that the “permanent five” — misusing the veto and putting national interests first — effectively blocked the organ’s work.  “The concerns and pain that we feel for civilians […] should not depend on our geographical or political proximity to the conflict,” he stressed.  Noting that “the United Nations are so much more than just the Security Council,” he commended the work of nameless humanitarian workers on the ground, in armed conflicts, among the civilians representing the face of the United Nations. In Gaza, he said, humanitarians are not just occasional collateral victims, they seem to have become a deliberate military target.  The sense of impunity for crimes in Gaza is putting humanitarian organizations under stress elsewhere, undermining the essence of the UN and affecting the work of humanitarian organizations and UN agencies.

Turning to climate change, he said its impact is mostly felt on the lifeline for people and nature — water.  Extreme weather events are multiplying water-related risks across the world, and people suffering from armed conflicts do not have the luxury of high-tech solutions.  Instead, they are denied basic access to clean drinking water, he observed, adding that access to water is becoming weaponized in Yemen, Somalia, Gaza and Sudan. He further underscored that today's world is increasingly hostile to children’s rights:  more children than ever are experiencing violence in all settings, many have lost their lives, are forcibly displaced, exposed to most traumatic experiences, imprisoned, denied education and health care and face extreme poverty and social exclusion.

To respond to the extreme suffering of the children in Gaza, Slovenia is offering concrete help with the Foundation “Let them dream”, which deals with their rehabilitation.  This project — launched years ago — has already helped hundreds of children from Gaza who came on rehabilitation in Slovenia and will continue to do so.  Sadly, some of these kids were the victims of recent aggression on Gaza, he said, sending a clear message to the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu — “stop the bloodshed, stop the war, stop the suffering, end the occupation of Palestine.”

MUHAMMAD SHEHBAZ SHARIF, Prime Minister of Pakistan, recalled that Quaid-e-Azam Muhamad Ali Jinnah — the father of the Pakistani nation — declared in 1947 that “we stand by the United Nations Charter and will gladly make our full contribution to peace and prosperity of the world.” While pointing to the daunting global challenges, he observed:  “We feel the chill of a new world order.”  “Our hearts bleed, as we witness the tragedy unfolding in the Holy Land,” he continued, adding:  “When we ignore their endless suffering, we diminish our own humanity.”  Noting that it is not enough to condemn, he stressed that States must act now.  More so, nations must work for a two-State solution and Palestine must also be immediately admitted as a full UN Member.  However, he observed that the failure to implement UN resolutions has emboldened Israel — it threatens to “drag the entire Middle East into a war”.

Like the people of Palestine, the people of Jammu and Kashmir “too” have struggled for a century for their freedom and right to self-determination.  Instead of moving towards peace, India has resiled from commitments to implement the relevant Security Council resolutions and since 5 August 2019, initiated unilateral illegal steps to impose what its leader “ominously” called a “final solution for Jammu and Kashmir”.  At the same time, “in a classic settler-colonial project”, India is seizing Kashmiri lands and settling outsiders into the occupied territories to transform the Muslim majority into a minority.  While the Kashmiri people are “resolute in rejection of the false Indian identity”, New Deli’s policy of brutal coercion and oppression has ensured that Burhan Wani’s legacy continues to inspire the struggle and sacrifices of millions of Kashmiris.  “Inspired by the legitimacy of their epic struggle, they remain defiant,” he stressed. He also added that Pakistan will respond most decisively to any Indian aggression.

Recalling that, in 2022, Pakistan was devastated by catastrophic floods — causing $30 billion in damages — he observed that his country emits less than 1 per cent of carbon globally.  “Yet we have paid a very heavy price for no fault of ours,” he added.  To that end, the “morally bankrupt” international financial architecture must be reformed to provide global equity.  Since assuming office in March, the well-being and prosperity of his 240 million people has been his only focus, he said.  His Government has taken difficult but necessary decisions that have rescued the economy from collapse, restored macroeconomic stability and strengthened the reserves.  As a result, inflation has come to single digits.  Furthermore, the second phase of the landmark China-Pakistan Economic Corridor has been launched.  Through the apex Special Investment Facilitation Council, Pakistan is mobilizing investment in resilient infrastructure and renewable energy.

For two decades, Pakistan has fought terrorism “boldly and most successfully”, he observed, adding:  “We have paid a very high price.”  Eighty thousand Pakistani soldiers and civilians have been martyred and its economy suffered a loss of $150 billion.  Yet, today, the country is again confronted with a surge of externally financed terrorism by Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)/Fitna al-Khawarij and its associates.  While Pakistan seeks the normalization of the situation in Afghanistan, it joined the UN’s appeal for $3 billion in humanitarian assistance.  Also spotlighting the escalation of Islamophobia, he said that its most alarming manifestation is “the Hindu supremacist agenda in India” that “aggressively” seeks the subjugation of 200 million Muslims and the obliteration of India’s Islamic heritage.  However, “the weak are not voiceless, the oppressed should not lose hope and poverty is not pre-ordained,” he added.

BENJAMIN NETANYAHU, Prime Minister of Israel, said that after hearing numerous lies and slander, he decided to come personally “to set the record straight” and “to speak for the truth”.  As his country faces “savage enemies who seek our annihilation”, he stressed that “Israel seeks peace, Israel yearns for peace.” Comparing the “unimaginable” atrocities committed by Hamas on 7 October to “the Nazi Holocaust”, he said:  “They savagely murdered 1,200 people, they raped and mutilated women, they beheaded men, they burnt babies alive.”  Israel has brought home 154 of 251 people taken hostage by Hamas and dragged into the “dungeons” of Gaza, he said, adding:  “We will not rest until the remaining hostages are brought home safely.”

Following the 7 October attack, Israel has been forced to defend itself on six more warfronts organized by Iran in Lebanon, Yemen, Syria and Iraq, he noted.  In response to Iran’s first-ever direct assault on Israel, he warned:  “Strike us, we will strike you.  There is no place in Iran that the long arm of Israel cannot reach and that is true of the entire Middle East.”  Demonstrating two maps, he contrasted the “blessing” of development for Israel and its “Arab partners” with the “curse” of Iran’s influence in the region, warning that “Iran seeks to impose its radicalism beyond the Middle East and threatens the entire world.”  The world should “join Israel in stopping Iran’s nuclear weapons”, he said, calling on the UN to “snap back” sanctions against Iran.  “We must all do everything in our power to ensure Iran never gets nuclear weapons,” he emphasized.

Noting that the Israel Defense Forces continue fighting Hamas, he warned that if the group stays in power, “it will regroup, rearm and attack again.”  Therefore, he rejected “any rule for Hamas in a post-war Gaza”, adding that it would be “inconceivable” if the defeated Nazis were invited to rebuild Germany in 1945. “We do not seek to resettle Gaza,” he underscored, emphasizing that Israel wants a “demilitarized and de-radicalized” Gaza, adding that “only then can we ensure that this round of fighting will be the last.”  More so, he stressed that the war can come to an end only if Hamas surrenders and releases all hostages.  “If they do not, we will fight until we achieve total victory.  There is not a substitute for it,” he underscored.  He further stressed that Israel must defeat “the quintessential terror organization” Hizbullah in Lebanon, and “will not accept a terror army perched on our northern border ready to carry out another 7 October style massacre.”

Recalling the Abraham accords of four years ago, he said that the path towards achieving a historic peace agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia must continue as it would build a foundation for a broader global alliance of countries, who choose “the blessing of peace”.  Looking forward, he asked the audience to make a choice of standing with Israel, democracy and peace or with the brutal dictatorship of Iran.  “We are defending ourselves, but we are also defending you against a common enemy that, through violence and terror, seeks to destroy our way of life,” he said. Voicing indignation about Israel being “absurdly accused” of committing genocide by the International Court of Justice, he criticized “the UN house of darkness” for passing more resolutions against Israel than resolutions against the entire world combined.  “What a hypocrisy.  What a double standard.  What a joke,” he said, adding that “until this anti-Semitic swamp is drained”, the UN will be viewed “as nothing more than a contemptuous farce.”  The real war criminals are in Iran, Gaza, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen, he said, stressing that his country will “win this battle because we do not have a choice.”

MIA AMOR MOTTLEY, Prime Minister of Barbados, describing a world that has endured “four years of poly-crises” and is now confronted by “multiple theatres of war and armed conflict”, said:  “We cannot afford the distraction of war.  Together, the international community must now deliver new opportunities and solutions If ever there was a time to pause and reset, it is now.”  This reset must see an end to all forms of discrimination and rules and institutions that create first- and second-class citizens, she said, urging global institutions to give developing countries, especially small vulnerable ones like her own, “seats at the tables of decision-making where we can … become active agents in our own cause and lead our own development paradigms.”  Noting that 2024 is the final year of the UN’s Decade for People of African Descent, she joined the “growing chorus for the immediate proclamation of a second decade” to complete the unfinished work and address the matter of reparations for slavery and colonialism.

The reset must also be characterized by institutional reform that starts at the United Nations, she said, pointing out that: “Councils which suggest that some are full members and others are only part-members, part-time or occasional members, have no place in the twenty-first century.”  Urging a reset in attitudes as much as actions or reforms, she said that transformative national agendas require much needed reform within international financial institutions.  Noting the launch of the third iteration of the Bridgetown Initiative, she said its three key pillars include changing the rules of the international financial system and reform of its governance and instruments; shockproofing economies by dealing with debt and liquidity comprehensively; and augmenting financing by boosting country capacity to invest in resilience, including the effective rechanneling of special drawing rights (SDRs) through multilateral development partners.  The international community must address how it secures and funds the global public commons, and tackles the climate crisis and biodiversity loss, among other global challenges.

“The SIDS [small island developing States] Agenda is another story of promises made but not kept,” she continued, recalling that 30 years ago, the international community gathered in Barbados to take action for the first time on the unique challenges faced by small island developing States and adopted the Barbados Programme of Action — the first ever global agenda for that bloc.  Since then, the vulnerabilities of small island developing States have become more pronounced, she said, calling on the international community to work together to realize the vision of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS 2024.  Two days ago, Barbados took over from Ghana the presidency of the Climate Vulnerable Forum and the Vulnerable 20, she reported, noting that priorities for its term include addressing the multiple dimensions of climate change, its impact on climate change and the issue of debt and climate.  She invited all climate-vulnerable Member States that have not yet done so to join others in the Climate Vulnerable Forum to strengthen their collective voice, enhance advocacy efforts and urgently address the climate crisis.

Above all else, a reset is needed to secure global peace, she underscored.  “The silence that has engulfed Sudan is unacceptable,” she said, lamenting too the situations in Myanmar, Ukraine, Gaza, the West Bank and Lebanon.  These wars will come to an end, but at what cost and with how much loss of life, she asked, warning against “the desensitizing of ordinary people to the loss of lives, especially of innocent children and women” and “the anger and inclination for vengeance that it spawns”. Underscoring the need to work for peace, she reported that Barbados established diplomatic relations this year with the State of Palestine whose people are entitled to full recognition and support from the international community.  She condemned the actions of Hamas and strongly deplored the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza “which is the result of the disproportionate use of force by Israel”.  Moreover, she urged an end to the killing in Ukraine; a reset in the United States’ approach to assault weapons; and full support for Haiti’s stability. Spotlighting Cuba as a valuable partner to Barbados, she once again urged lifting of the embargo because “it is simply wrong”.  Pointing to a climate crisis that is “hitting us almost weekly across the globe”, she said deniers too need a reset and should “admit the absolute necessity of collective action to save our way of life and our planet”.

MIA TSHERING TOBGAY, Prime Minister of Bhutan, recounting his country’s admission into the United Nations in September 1971, said:  “On that day, after centuries of self-imposed isolation, Bhutan became the 128th member of the United Nations.  It was a defining moment for us — a moment when a small, poor, landlocked country, nestled in the world’s highest mountains, joined the global community of nations.”  That same year, the United Nations created the “least developed country” category to provide targeted support to the world’s poorest nations, and Bhutan was among the first in the group to be admitted, he added.  Its primarily agrarian economy then was operating largely on a barter system, and its per capita income stood at just $215.  Life expectancy was barely 40 years, and its infant mortality rate was “tragically high at 142 deaths for every 1,000 live births”.  The literacy rate was “woefully low, with less than 300 students in the few scattered schools” established to provide modern education.

“Today, I stand before you with a story of transformation and progress,” he declared, pointing to a per capita gross domestic product (GDP) that has risen to over $3,500, an increase in life expectancy to 70 years and an infant mortality drop to 15 deaths per 1,000 live births. Additionally, the literacy rate has climbed to 71 per cent, with youth literacy skyrocketing to 99 per cent.  He reported that in December 2023, 52 years after joining the UN, Bhutan graduated from the “least developed country” category.  Noting the support of many friends in that journey, he thanked the United Nations and its specialized agencies; development partners including Japan, the European Union, the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank; and especially “India, our closest friend and neighbour … [who] have been with us from the very beginning of our development journey”.  “Under the leadership of our enlightened monarchs, Bhutan has pursued a development path grounded in the philosophy of Gross National Happiness” — an approach which places the happiness and well-being of our people at the centre of the development agenda, he added.

Bhutan’s economy, while small, is sustainable and inclusive, he said.  Healthcare and education are free for all.  With more than 72 per cent of its land under forest cover, Bhutan is recognized as a biodiversity hotspot and a carbon-negative country.  “Our democracy, a gift from our King, has been embraced by a reluctant population,” he added.  Nonetheless, to address new challenges, Bhutan must strengthen its economy, provide youth with meaningful opportunities and embrace a new development paradigm, he said, reporting that his country’s King has announced the establishment of the Gelephu Mindfulness City — a transformative vision for future urban spaces, a blueprint for living mindfully and sustainably.  “Spanning 2,600 square kilometres of pristine forests and fertile farmlands, it will enable human innovation and natural ecosystems to thrive together, while fostering human well-being, environmental sustainability and mindful living,” he said, inviting thought leaders, innovators and investors to join in building this groundbreaking city, contributing to “a model of peace, harmony and progress that others can follow”.

“Bhutan’s story is one of hope.  But it is also a call to action,” he emphasized, pointing out that “more than 50 years have passed, and only seven nations have graduated from the LDC [least developed countries] category, leaving 46 countries still in need”.  He urged the international community to intensify its efforts to ensure that all least developed countries achieve graduation. The recently adopted Pact for the Future provides a road map to transform the lives of the world’s most vulnerable, but transforming the future also requires the transformation of institutions shaping it.  To that end, the UN must evolve to meet the realities of today’s world, and the Security Council, as “a relic of the past”, must reflect the current geopolitical and economic landscape.  Bhutan has long advocated for Council reform to make it more representative and effective, he said, highlighting that “India, with its significant economic growth and leadership in the Global South, deserves a permanent seat at the Security Council”, and “similarly, Japan, a leading donor and peacebuilder, warrants permanent membership”.

XAVIER ESPOT ZAMORA, Prime Minister of Andorra, underscored that his country, which has never had a war or an army, “is tangible, real proof that people are able to live together peacefully for more than 800 years”.  Yet, the spirit of the Declaration of Human Rights is failing little by little, he added, with an advance of extreme political positions.  “We find ourselves at a key moment in history” requiring not rhetoric but actions.  The UN must respond effectively to the challenges of our times, he added.  The implementation of the UN Charter must be ensured, strengthened by the pillars of the defence of human rights and international humanitarian law, which must alone “govern relations between States”. The international community cannot remain indifferent to the serious situations in Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan or the Sahel.  It must urgently mobilize to “achieve the most noble goal of politics:  peace”.

He called on all parties to work for peace and to respect and obey international humanitarian law.  “Nothing can justify the attacks suffered by civilian populations, nothing can justify the attacks against hospitals and schools and nothing can justify using hunger as a strategy of war.”  Children are central to this, he said.  Therefore, his country has from the beginning given all its support to the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict and, more recently, to the study on the impact of climate change on children and armed conflicts.  He believes in multilateralism and particularly regional cooperation, including the European Union, and his country is undertaking actions to enter the European Single Market.  He highlighted the climate emergency, gender equality, digital transition and cultural diversity as key issues.  His country co-facilitated, for yet another year, the resolution on Multilingualism in the UN, with Guatemala.

On climate change, some nations face greater impacts than others, including mountain territories with more vulnerable ecosystems, such as his own.  It can change the way of life and the economy.  “It's for this reason we have made the fight against climate change one of our main goals internationally as well as nationally.”  In 2015, his country was one of the first in the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change to produce its nationally determined contribution.  It updated it in 2020 and 2022 and plans to achieve climate neutrality in 2050. Nationally, it has implemented a new energy policy to progressively increase production of renewable energy and replace heat production systems with less-polluting systems.  The public sector led this policy, with very ambitious legislation and significant aid and action plans.  But, he said, “all of these efforts will be in vain if other countries do not do the same thing”.

He called for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly including women.  Boys and girls must be given the tools to question societal norms.  “But bringing about gender equality requires determination and prevenance on the part of each and every one of us.”  As national representatives, “we have the moral and political obligation to promote this transformation”.  The digital divide must also be closed. Currently, 96 per cent of Andorran homes have an Internet connection.  The country has implemented a national strategy for digital transition, which is particularly focused on digital rights of citizens and respect for Sustainable Development Goals 9, 16 and 17.  It has created an ethical and legal framework to preserve digital rights, protect private life and data security and ensure free access to digital information.  “We want all citizens to be able to access the digital world and thus avoid situations of inequality.”

MUHAMMAD YUNUS, Chief Adviser of the interim Government of Bangladesh, said the Pact for the Future and the Declaration on Future Generations could help in setting pathways beyond the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.  “I stand in this parliament of nations thanks to an epochal transformation that Bangladesh witnessed this July and August,” he stressed, adding that the uprising led by students and youth was initially aimed at ending discrimination.  “The people’s movement left an estimated over 800 martyrs in the hands of the autocratic regime,” he said, calling upon the international community to engage with the ‘new Bangladesh’ and pledging to remain an active proponent of multilateralism, with the United Nations at the core.  “As the third largest troop-contributing country, our peacekeepers had served across 63 Missions in 43 countries to date.  One hundred and sixty-eight Bangladeshi peacekeepers had laid their lives, from Bosnia to Congo,” he noted, expressing hope that Bangladesh defence forces would continue to be called upon in future UN peace operations regardless of the challenges or circumstances.

Turning to climate change, he observed that the record-breaking heat wave this summer starkly reminded the world of the climate-induced challenges.  “What we need is climate justice — so that the irresponsible choices or indifferent actions or harms caused are accounted for,” he emphasized.  “As I speak, over 5 million people witnessed a most devastating flood in their living memory in eastern Bangladesh,” he added, urging for channelling robust resources for climate adaptation in climate-vulnerable countries like Bangladesh and calling for access to life-saving technologies, particularly in agriculture, water or public health, where even a trickle of modest solutions or innovations can save millions.  He stressed that the world needs to engage on a shared vision of ‘three zeroes’ — zero poverty, zero unemployment and zero net carbon emissions.

“The genocide in Gaza continues unabated despite global concerns and condemnation,” he went on to say, underscoring that the situation in Palestine just does not concern the Arabs or Muslims at large — rather the entire humanity.  “All those responsible for the crimes against humanity against the Palestinian people must be held accountable,” he said, urging to implement the two-State solution that remains the only path to bring lasting peace in the Middle East.  “The two and a half year long war in Ukraine has claimed far too many lives,” he continued, adding that this war has impacted far and wide, even lending deeper economic implications in Bangladesh, and urging both sides to pursue dialogue to resolve the differences and end the war. He also reminded that Bangladesh has been hosting over 1.2 million Rohingyas on humanitarian ground, incurring significant social, economic and environmental costs.  “The protracted crisis in Myanmar also poses growing risks with national and regional security implications for Bangladesh,” he said, calling for the creation of an environment for dignified and sustainable return of the Rohingyas to their homeland.

DORIN RECEAN, Prime Minister of the Republic of Moldova, said that peace, security, prosperity and free choice are at the core of his country’s agenda, noting that generations of its intellectuals have fought for the Republic of Moldova’s independence and freedom.  “After 33 years of independence, we see it in the confidence of our youth, in the revitalization of our culture,” he emphasized. Observing that the Russian Federation’s war of aggression against Ukraine threatens the fabric of the international order, he added that it throws the country back to the times of great power politics, when a large State pursues its “cynical geopolitical designs” to divide the region into spheres of influence and annex smaller neighbours.  For the Republic of Moldova, this is not “a mere distant memory but a looming threat”, he said, observing:  the “Kremlin doesn’t want us at the table.  The Kremlin wants us on the table.”  Compulsion of “raw force” are now perpetuated with hybrid warfare, malign influence and subversion of the democratic State, he noted, stating that even mature democracies find it difficult to cope with them.

Therefore, Ukraine is fighting not only for its statehood, nation and its very existence — it is fighting for each nation’s freedom to choose and pursue its national aspirations, he said.  Despite the war at its border, his country continued to contribute to regional security.  “We have preserved peace and security in Moldova,” he stressed, observing that it has welcomed over 1 million Ukrainian refugees.  Further, the country is committed to a peaceful resolution of the Transnistrian conflict.  “Moldova’s destiny belongs to Moldovans, not outside powers,” he stressed, emphasizing that subversion and external intimidation have no place in the twenty-first century.  Noting that the social compact of the Republic of Moldova’s society is individual freedoms, competitive elections and open society, he reiterated that it is not a “Kremlin satellite State”.  He continued: “Despite flooding Moldova with illicit money, propaganda and falsehoods and waging a fully-fledged hybrid attack, the Kremlin has failed to divide our house against itself.”

Also emphasizing that his country is no longer a “grey zone” — a profitable money laundering enterprise for unscrupulous oligarchs and foreign powers — he spotlighted the Republic of Moldova’s progress in “cleaning-up” the justice system and law enforcement.  Despite the proximity to the war zone, the Republic of Moldova’s business environment is improving, small and medium enterprises have a better outlook and exports of high-quality products are picking up due to access to European markets.  Also, the country’s energy independence can no longer be used to “blackmail and extract geopolitical concessions”.  Crucially, the Republic of Moldova has “genuinely” opened itself to the world. In recognition of the country’s progress, European Union leaders unanimously agreed to open accession negotiations.  “This is our most significant achievement since independence, and we are committed to be ready to join the EU by 2030,” he stressed.

On 20 October 2024, the Republic of Moldova will reaffirm its European choice in a referendum to enshrine European Union integration into its Constitution.  While Moscow wants to “keep Moldova captive in its past”, Moldovan people will not return the country to oligarchs, who plunder the State.  “We will not be dragged back into a sphere of influence that does not reflect our aspirations,” he stressed.  The people of that country chose freedom and Europe.  Turning to climate change, he reaffirmed the Republic of Moldova’s commitment to work alongside the international community to turn the pledges of the General Assembly’s Pact for the Future into concrete actions.  “Moldova stands at a historic crossroads, both as a nation and as a member of the international community,” he stressed, adding that his country chooses peace, democracy and the rule of law over war, authoritarianism and repression.  “For us this means Europe.  It is our choice,” he added.

CHARLOT SALWAI TABIMASMAS, Prime Minister of Vanuatu, cited the collective efforts to create a better world for present and future generations as “nothing short of disappointing”.  The collective failures to confront climate change, boost international development finance and secure global peace continue to plague development in small island developing States.  “The increasing intensity and frequency of climate-induced disasters continue to threaten our livelihoods and shed multiple years of development gains, leaving the furthest behind even further behind,” he observed, adding that “the window for real action to restore the health of this planet is fast closing on all of us”.  Despite the latest report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the global response to the threat of climate change remains subpar, undermining sustainable development and efforts to eradicate poverty.

Accordingly, he continued, Vanuatu sought an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice, requesting clarification on States’ legal obligations with respect to climate change, which has garnered unprecedented global attention.  “The initiative to bring climate change before the [Court] is not about naming or shaming any particular nation,” he said, adding that it seeks to provide the foundation for real climate action and climate justice through a shared understanding of responsibility and accountability.  He called on all States to be part of these historic hearings, which begin on 2 December 2024.  “Your voices are crucial in ensuring the Court fully grasps the implications of climate change for those most affected and will unite us in our shared commitment to justice and human rights as part of a more sustainable future,” he added.

Spotlighting the multiple crises facing small island economies, he said that tightening financial conditions and rising borrowing costs have increased those countries’ debt distress risks and undermined their ability to invest in recovery.  Against this backdrop, he welcomed the outcome of the Summit of the Future, which calls for global concerted efforts to reform the global economic and financial architecture.  He also called for reforms of Bretton Woods institutions to restructure the international monetary and financial system, including the establishment of an international sovereign debt workout mechanism to solve current debt crises in developing countries, particularly those most vulnerable.

Detailing Vanuatu’s struggle with climate-induced disasters, he said it loses over half its GDP each time a severe cyclone strikes. The latest Adaptation Fund report estimates a current adaptation finance gap of $194 billion to 366 billion annually.  As a country on the front line of frequent and intensifying climate disasters, Vanuatu calls for a new financial goal to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels, build resilience and realistically address loss and damage. It is also vital to prevent the severest harms to the planet’s vital and climate-regulating ecosystems before they occur, he asserted, highlighting his Government’s formal proposal of “an independent crime of ecocide” to the International Criminal Court.

ANDREJ PLENKOVIĆ, Prime Minister of Croatia, said the world is “increasingly ablaze”.  With the Russian Federation’s aggression against Ukraine continuing into its third year, he voiced concern about the nuclear safety of that country, which has a cross-border impact.  Pointing out “the looming threat of a wider conflict in the Middle East”, he called for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and urged both sides to engage in genuine negotiations to end hostilities.  Reversing the trend of a humanitarian and civilian catastrophe unfolding in Sudan should be a priority for all of us, he said, highlighting “the context of increasing fragmentation of the security architecture” on the African continent.

The “world’s constitution” — the Charter of the United Nations — must be upheld more than ever before, he said, urging not only to avoid conflict, but to reduce the already heightened risks of escalation. As the Vice-Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission, Croatia supports strengthening the links between the three pillars of the UN, he said, adding:  “There is no peace without sustainable development and no sustainable development without peace.”  Highlighting his country’s national strategy that balances economic growth and social stability with environmental stewardship, he detailed how the global digital transformation is reflected in the country’s State and public administration, businesses and society.

On climate change, he said Croatia’s location in the Mediterranean — one of the world’s regions expected to be hit hardest by climate change — made promotion of nature-based solutions one of the main national tools for climate change adaptation and mitigation.  “We need to strengthen the multilateral system of dealing with climate, biodiversity and sustainable development,” he said.  A more peaceful, equal and sustainable world can only be achieved through respect for human rights, he said, voicing his country’s commitment to further champion the cause of human rights.  More so, committed to eradicating domestic violence and violence against women, Croatia has introduced “femicide as a distinct criminal offence”.  He further announced that his country will lead the efforts by a cross-regional group of countries at the UN to proclaim the International Day of Deafblindness.

Voicing his support for the reform of the General Assembly and the Security Council, he stressed the need to make the UN Secretariat “fit for purpose”, adding that the selection of the Secretary-General and other high-level posts should be “guided by the principles of merit, transparency, inclusiveness, gender and geographic rotation”.  Turning to regional issues in the Balkans, he underscored the importance of stability and security of neighbouring Bosnia and Herzegovina, which can be achieved by guaranteeing “the constitutional full equality” of Croats, Bosniaks and Serbs and respect for the Dayton-Paris Agreement.

JAMES MARAPE, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, emphasized three threats to humanity:  religious intolerance, poverty, especially induced by climate change, and geopolitical differences and contests over territories and people.  He highlighted that his country is the world’s most culturally and linguistically diverse nation.  “We embrace this diversity and do our best to function as ‘one people and one country’, leaving no one behind.”  It hosts up to 7 per cent of the world’s biodiversity, and sustainably manages its forest, land and sea “because our livelihood depends on them”.  Therefore, it “teaches the world on living in balance with nature, tolerating cultural diversities and practicing environmental stewardship”.  His country aims to become a higher-income nation by 2045 and has aligned its development plans with the Sustainable Development Goals.

He underscored that Christianity has helped his nation to manage a diverse, multicultural people and to blend as one nation.  Yet, its Constitution protects individuals’ right to choose their religion, and he urged that this remains a key duty of the UN. The UN “must condemn laws that encroach upon individuals’ choice of religion”.  Enforcement of one religion upon another is “a threat to peace and coexistence of mankind.  I ask the United Nations to keep watch over religious freedom for all people,” he said.

Moving to climate change-induced poverty, he underlined: “The pursuit of wealth has caused man to plunder Earth of its resources beyond the threshold of sustainability, with little consideration for our children’s future.”  Ocean nations like his live with climate change-induced sea level rise and weather pattern changes which have become an existential threat. Despite its economic needs, his country remains committed to safeguarding both its blue ocean life and its green forest life “for Earth’s children”.  It continues to play a proactive role in progressing its commitments under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement on climate change by undertaking adaptation and mitigation efforts.  But he underscored that accessing climate finance remains a challenge and called for the UN to look into this matter with urgency.  Otherwise, “we will utilize our rights to liquidate our forest and marine resources to achieve our development aspirations”, expressly alleviating poverty, he said.  He said that he speaks in solidarity with all forest nations, especially those in the Congo Basin and Amazon Basin wanting adequate compensation to preserve forests, which are the lungs of Earth.  “The responsibility to save our environment and the planet should bear on all of us in equal measure.”  UN members must “work together to save these forests, which are global assets”.

Increasing geopolitical conflicts and tensions are fuelling fragmentation and protectionism around the world, he said. The restrictions on trade, disruptions in supply chains and growing competition are crippling local economies. He called for an examination of peaceful strategies and solutions, investment in peacebuilding initiatives, mutual understanding and cooperation to build trust and foster peaceful relationships.  The UN’s role in this must be respected by all nations, he added.  He provided an example from his own country of successful de-escalation in its internal conflict in Bougainville.  There the UN supervised the Bougainville Peace Agreement in 2001 and continues to ensure all its requirements are complied with.  His country calls on the UN and its systems to begin the process of Council reform, including the removal of veto power, so that all nations can sit equally at the table.

ROBERT ABELA, Prime Minister of Malta, said the United Nations can and must be a counsel of hope.  Recalling that his country gained independence from the United Kingdom and joined the UN, he said:  “Over those six decades, my country has developed beyond the wildest dreams of the pioneers who saw us to statehood.”  He went on to say that the world needs the United Nations now more than ever and Malta values the United Nations now more than ever.  “We will remain steadfast in our support for steps to build and maintain peace in every region of conflict,” he stressed, describing the role of Malta as an ‘honest broker’ — the approach it brought to its membership of the Security Council.  Underscoring that the failure of many countries to comply with international rules poses a great threat to many innocent citizens, he urged all Member States to play their part by remitting the resources to ensure the hard-working front-line UN staff can play their part in bringing relief and hope where it is desperately needed.

As Malta concludes its current term on the Security Council, he recalled that amidst the tragedy of events in Israel and Gaza, his country worked with others to prioritize the relief of humanitarian suffering.  “We are proud that this led to the release of 105 hostages during the negotiated seven‑day pause,” he said, spotlighting a dangerous and deeply worrying escalation in Lebanon.  Reminding about the current wars in Sudan, Yemen, Syria and Ukraine, he turned to another country in conflict, Libya, which is Malta’s neighbour.  “Helping the Libyan people achieve a genuine and lasting resolution to the institutional crisis — for which they have paid too high a price for too long — is a key priority for Malta,” he emphasized, calling for the immediate withdrawal of all foreign forces, fighters and mercenaries from Libya.

Speaking about equality across gender, race, religion, age, disability and sexuality, he stressed that it is imperative in finding lasting solutions to so many of the challenges that face all.  “We are one of the few countries that has already implemented an anti-racism strategy,” he said.  Emphasizing that without women there can be no peace, he urged to ensure the voice of women and girls is heard at the top tables and on the ground. “South Sudan, Nigeria, Mali, Afghanistan, the Central African Republic, Colombia, Iraq and Somalia — that list is a sad testament to the magnitude and gravity of the repeated violations against children in crisis zones,” he continued.

Quoting a saying in Maltese, “The sea is wealthy,” he stressed that for Malta, the wealth of the sea equates to the wealth of its people. “We, small island nations, are amongst the lowest emitters of greenhouse gases but we are literally the front line of the climate emergency,” he said, adding that the ‘Islands for Islands’ initiative is central to Malta’s foreign policy, providing practical assistance to small island developing States.  Promoting Malta’s new ‘Shore-to-Ship’ initiative, he explained that its capital Valletta is a magnet for cruise ships which, while docked, produce serious amounts of pollution if relying on their engines, so his country is installing an onshore power supply to such ships which can switch off their engines and reduce pollution by around 90 per cent.  Besides, Malta championed the creation of a unified database of all vessels involved in illicit activity related to migration, but that can only happen if ship owners know that trying to break sanctions brings consequences, he said.

PHILIP DAVIS, Prime Minister of the Bahamas, said that for the past three years — along with other small island developing States — his country has been pleading for Member States to engage in urgent action on climate change.  Spotlighting “some welcome progress”, he said that it falls short of what is needed. “At this very moment, the new harsh reality manifests in hurricanes and heat, fire and floods,” he observed, noting that Member States “can somehow quickly find eyewatering sums of money for bullets and bombs” but only “rattle small change in their pockets” when it comes to financing the costs of loss and damage, repair and recovery.  While asking nations why they persist in ignoring “the biggest threat of our lives”, he pointed to the lack of determined, committed action and a series of misguided, short-term choices and priorities.  “We can choose differently.  We can choose better,” he stated.  Reporting that his country is a candidate for a non-permanent Security Council membership for 2032-2033, he said that they seek membership because of “the present crisis of today, the looming crisis of tomorrow” and to amplify the voices of small island developing States.

Climate considerations must be integrated into all aspects of the Security Council’s work, he observed, noting that “it’s countries like ours” that will help the organ with inclusive and representative decision-making.  Aspirations for global peace and security will remain empty dreams if not supported by economic security.  For too long, the global financial system has been skewed against developing nations, he observed, stating that his country has been instrumental in exposing the hypocrisy of unilateral blacklisting.  “The present system, with its dark rules and uneven playing field, drains resources from developing countries, leaving us to grapple with the consequences,” he said.  Even among small island developing States, the Bahamas is uniquely vulnerable.  To that end, the country has created a National Youth Guard to empower young people to become environmental champions.  It also embraces innovation in ocean technology to find solutions to the climate crisis.

“The Bahamas may be small in size, but we are not short on ambition or ingenuity,” he emphasized.  Reiterating that countries like his contribute very little to the problems of the world, he said that, yet, they are among the most affected.  Over 40 per cent of that country’s national debt is a direct result of the impacts of climate change.  Urging States to stop thinking about climate change merely as an environmental threat, he underscored that it is a threat multiplier that exacerbated existing tensions.  “If we think we have refugee challenges now, do we really want to wait until millions more are forced to cross borders just to survive?” he asked. Further, in 2024, his Government has turned to South-South cooperation to fill the gaps in development support. Stressing that the twenty-ninth UN Climate Change Conference must be a turning point, he encouraged States to revitalize the stalled negotiations on the New Collective Quantified Goal on climate finance.

“Developed nations must step up, not just with words,” he stressed, observing that while global military expenditure soared to an unprecedented $2.4 trillion in 2023, the loss and damage fund, “painstakingly established” at the twenty-eighth UN Climate Change Conference, has secured a mere $800 million in pledges.  Calling it a “drop in the ocean”, he underscored that this is not just an issue of funding, but of sustainability and survival.  “The loss and damage fund must be fully operationalized,” he stated.  He added:  “We are not asking for a handout, but for a hand up.  Even the strongest swimmer drowns if left alone in a raging sea.” He also renewed his call for the removal of the blockade on Cuba, observing:  “It has not worked.  It has been in place now for over 70 years.  So, why should it still remain?”

KASSIM MAJALIWA MAJALIWA, Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania, highlighting the importance of the SDGs as a “beacon of hope” in tackling global challenges, voiced concern about the slow progress in achieving them, with only 17 per cent of targets on track and over a third stalling or regressing.  Against this backdrop, he called for “urgent actions and global solidarity” to overcome challenges like economic imbalances, climate change and conflicts.  Detailing his country’s progress in achieving the SDGs, he spotlighted initiatives like the Building a Better Tomorrow agricultural initiative for youth and women’s empowerment in Zanzibar through seaweed farming.

Citing his country’s historical role in leading the fight against colonialism, he called “for the realization of the right to self-determination of all people under colonial occupation and lifting of economic sanctions imposed against them”, specifically mentioning Cuba.  On peace and security, he emphasized that in light of global health threats and geopolitical tensions “no one is safe until everyone is safe,” urging to “invest more in peace, foster unity and rebuild trust”.  Welcoming the adoption of the World Kiswahili Language Day by the General Assembly, he called for it to become the seventh official UN language.  He went on to highlight his country’s contributions to peacekeeping and mediation efforts, stressing that “Tanzania’s commitment towards peace will not weaken.”

On climate change, he called for greater investments in climate finance to help recover economies already suffering from these effects, noting that Tanzania is “highly vulnerable” to rising sea levels and other climate impacts.  He also emphasized the need to achieve universal clean cooking access in Africa by 2030, noting that 2.4 billion people still rely on polluting fuels for cooking, further exacerbating health problems and food insecurity among other issues.

Ahead of this year’s local government elections and the country’s 2025 presidential and parliamentary elections, he reiterated Tanzania’s commitment to democracy, human rights and rule of law in line with the President’s “4Rs” vision:  reconciliation, resilience, reforms and rebuilding.  “Reforms are crucial for countries and international organizations to stay relevant, for greater inclusiveness, transparency and accountability,” he said, underscoring the need for reforming the Security Council and Bretton Woods institutions.  Urging world leaders “to unite against international threats that undermine unity, peace and human dignity”, he said:  “We can achieve the future we want, if we commit to rebuilding and restoring what has been damaged by our past actions.”

RALPH GONSALVES, Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, said the travails of small island developing States endure “in a global community largely disinterested in our well-being”.  Small island developing States have made incremental advances in the global community but “it has been a situation akin to going up and down an escalator in which the down escalator is moving at a faster pace than the upward baby steps”.  He added that frequently, it appears “much of the powerful would wish that SIDS [small island developing States] did not exist”, but “we are stubborn as the heavens. We are not going anywhere despite our massive vulnerabilities … We have a voice, and we will continue to use it.” He demanded, as a right, the international community’s support to address small island developing States unique social, economic and environmental vulnerabilities.  “Small Island Exceptionalism ought to be a category embedded formally in international law and accorded most favourable treatment.”

Developed countries, the major emitters of greenhouse gases, have failed or refused to keep their commitments to restrict global temperature rises.  Without changes to the patterns of consumption, production and living in developed economies, “our planet is inexorably on a path to a proverbial hell in a handbasket”, he underscored.  He criticized several major developed countries for stymieing the transformation of international financial institutions and alterations in climate change financing.  He highlighted, as reflective of failures of multilateralism, Ukraine’s war, the genocide in Gaza, conflicts in Yemen, Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, threats across the Taiwan Strait, “an empire’s designs on revolutionary Cuba and Venezuela” and violence in Haiti.  They illustrate a hamstrung United Nations framework.  “Large, powerful nations, singly, or in allied combinations, have a propensity to seek dominance.”  The struggle for ownership, control and distribution of material resources prevails.

In his country’s region the Monroe Doctrine “still stalks the marbled halls of the citadels of a neighbouring great country” despite that “no country in our hemisphere can reasonably be considered a security or other threat to this great nation”.  But, he said, his and other Caribbean countries have been damaged collaterally and directly in significant material ways by “the weaponizing of the financial system and the unjust, unilateral, coercive sanctions against Venezuela and Cuba, which are a breach of international law”.  “I am pleading with our friends for an amicable reset of these troubled relations in the interest of peace, mutual respect, justice and prosperity.”  He noted continued international calls for the end of unilateral sanctions and embargos against Cuba.

He underscored that his country has suffered 12 significant natural hazards this century and thanked those who have come to its aid in the most recent immediate aftermath.  But “for the recovery and rebuilding processes, we are essentially on our own”, seeking significant loans to rebuild.  He appealed to the international community not for further burdensome loans, but for grants.  The recovery and reconstruction after every natural hazard “increase sharply our debt burden”.  This is despite countries like his having contributed little or nothing to climate change.  “Yet, we suffer largely alone on the front lines.  This cannot be fair.  It cannot be just.  Do we have to choose death or debt?”  He noted international calls for European nations responsible for genocide and the enslavement of African bodies to pay reparations for consequential underdevelopment. “This issue of transformative reparatory justice will not go away until it is addressed appropriately,” he underscored.

RUSSELL MMISO DLAMINI, Prime Minister of Eswatini, said his country joins this General Assembly with unwavering dedication to the principles of peace, sustainable development and human dignity.  “There is a need to reconsider the operations of the multilateral institutions such as the IMF [International Monetary Fund] and the World Bank and particularly the Security Council,” he stressed, recalling that in 2005, his country hosted the African Union meeting that resulted in the Ezulwini Consensus which articulated Africa’s common position on the reform of the UN.  “We urge the global community to implement these long-standing commitments and ensure that all regions and peoples have a voice in shaping our collective future,” he said, adding that his country embraced the spirit of “Nkwe” which means “run” — this national ethos symbolizes the collective resolve to accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs.  “Nkwe is our rallying cry to run faster, to work harder and to leave no one behind,” he said.

Since Africa is the youngest continent in the world, he said that Eswatini is committed to harnessing this demographic dividend by investing in youth.  “We must act now to ensure that our youth can participate fully in building the Africa we want, an Africa of peace, prosperity and dignity,” he emphasized, adding that poverty remains one of the greatest challenges facing the continent.  He said Eswatini is committed to eradicating poverty through inclusive growth and robust social protection programmes and urged the international community to support these efforts by promoting fair trade, increasing development assistance and fostering partnerships that create jobs and uplift communities.

“However, as a small, middle-income country, we face unique challenges, including limited access to international financing, vulnerability to climate change and economic shocks,” he said, calling on the international community to support the developmental aspirations of countries like Eswatini.  “Eswatini has put forth a comprehensive SDG Recovery and Acceleration Plan, valued at $1.6 billion, covering diverse areas including digital transformation, renewable energy, agriculture, industrial expansion and social protection,” he noted.  “The current global financial architecture is not fit for purpose and must be reformed to make the financing more accessible and equitable,” he stressed, urging to support the reform of global financial mechanisms that have seen developing countries pay much higher costs than developed nations to access the much-needed funds.

He also condemned all forms of violence and supported efforts aimed at silencing the guns across the world, particularly in Africa.  As his country continues to grapple with significant health challenges, he called for collaborative efforts in strengthening health systems, enhancing disease surveillance and building capacity for rapid response to health emergencies.  Turning to climate change, he said his country developed a comprehensive strategy to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of this change, investing in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and disaster risk reduction.  “We are also proud to announce that Eswatini has recently adopted a ban on single-use plastics,” he said, calling upon developed nations to honour their commitments to climate finance and technology transfer.  “It is only through collective action that we can ensure a sustainable future for all,” he stressed.  “Ironically, Taiwan and its 23.5 million people continue to be left by the United Nations and its specialized agencies,” he continued, calling for their inclusion, so that they can also fully participate in global development.  “May we all embrace the spirit of Nkwe and let us run together with accelerated speed towards our shared goals and ensure that no one is left behind,” he concluded.

ROBINAH NABBANJA, Prime Minister of Uganda, said “we can all agree that the world is not in a good place”, calling for urgent action to address global inequalities that produce poverty, hunger and disease, which disproportionally affect the most vulnerable.  “We reject the increasing competition and confrontation between major Powers, which undermines the collective international responses to security, peace, stability and social economic development,” she stressed. Turning to Security Council reform, she recalled the Common African Position, that the continent have two permanent seats, with veto privileges, if others have it, as well as two non-permanent seats.  Africa aspires to gain representation on the Security Council as “equal partners and make a contribution to a multilateral system that should become inclusive, equitable and work for the international peace and security of all, without paralysis or succumbing to parochial interests of major Powers”.  Moreover, the continent demands the right to development as “equal members of the international community” without politicized preconditions.

Financing is one of the biggest challenges to implement the 2030 Agenda, she said, noting that sovereign debt and loans at a zero-interest rate will facilitate productive investments in infrastructure and make debt sustainable, also permitting growth.  Like other developing countries, Uganda faces challenges on domestic resource mobilization due to a limited tax base.  To that end, Uganda calls for the “strengthening of the international cooperation in tax matters to ensure that it is effective and inclusive”, in part by requiring multinational companies to pay taxes where their operations take place, including through e-commerce and cross-border transactions.  Further, the global financial architecture must be reformed urgently, she said.  Domestically, the country’s national development plan focuses on areas including agro-processing, industrialization, technology and skills development, she said, highlighting the infrastructure required for such ambitions and calling on the international community to support the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area — also inviting foreign direct investment (FDI). Sustainable foreign debt will create jobs and increase tax revenues.

She further called on multinational companies to stop buying raw materials only to process and resell them for consumption in developing countries, proposing that those that do should allow profit-sharing schemes for the countries that produce them.  Also, “Uganda calls on developed countries to provide the necessary financial, technological as well as capacity-building to support developing countries to effectively address climate change,” she said, calling for climate justice, noting that climate financing should be additional to official development assistance (ODA). In a similar vein, noting that developing countries are particularly affected by unilateral political actions and the weakening of multilateralism, she called for an end to economic, commercial and financial blockades imposed on “sisterly nations under sanctions, which is a major impediment to their sustainable development”.  Noting that Uganda currently holds the chairmanship for the Group of 77 and the Non-Aligned Movement, she reaffirmed the county’s commitment to working in solidarity to achieve a revitalized multilateral system capable of addressing today’s global challenges.

GASTON BROWNE, Prime Minister, Minister for Finance, Corporate Governance and Public Private Partnerships for Antigua and Barbuda, said the choices world leaders make today in this Assembly — and every institution of governance — will shape the survival of entire nations and the world’s future.  For small States like Antigua and Barbuda, the choices to act on climate change are crucial.  “Our islands are on the frontlines of a climate catastrophe we did not cause; a debt crisis we did not create, and conflicts in which we have no part,” he said.  SIDS4 is a milestone and sparked the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS — a renewed declaration for resilient prosperity.  “This Agenda is not just a roadmap for the future; it is a lifeline for now,” he added.  At its core is the SIDS Centre of Excellence, built by these countries for themselves and meant to create ground-breaking technologies, revolutionary processes and pioneering solutions.

Through its Global Data Hub, Innovation and Technology Mechanism, Island Investment Forum and Debt Sustainability Support Service, the Centre can transform how countries adapt vulnerabilities and set a path for resilient prosperity.  “However, this vision cannot succeed in isolation.  We need the cooperation and support of the global community to ensure its success,” he added.  It is absurd that Governments subsidize the industries that accelerate the climate crisis.  He called for a fossil fuel non-proliferation treaty to halt the reckless destruction of the environment, to end fossil fuel subsidies and chart a course towards a sustainable future, with a negotiated and graduated transition.  “Let COP29 [Twenty-ninth Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change] be the moment we draw a line in the sand,” he said.  “Let it be known — we can no longer afford the luxury of delay”.  Recognizing that fossil fuels still play a role in many countries’ energy security, he called for these companies to pay a global levy to fund mitigation efforts and compensation for the damage inflicted.

There should be no additional delays at COP29 in the capitalization and operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund.  “The international financial system is skewed, outdated, and unjust — punishing the most vulnerable while rewarding the already rich and prosperous with favourable terms for their financial instruments,” he said.  ”For too long, small States like mine have been shackled by debt we did not cause; debt that arose from recovery spending on recurring disasters that are beyond our control.”  The SIDS Debt Sustainability Support Service is a critical mechanism to provide tailored solutions, using debt for climate swaps, debt relief, repurposing of SDRs and carbon pricing funding to help these States escape the cycle of unsustainable debt.  “This is not charity — it is the justice of financial inclusion,” he added.

The adoption of the multidimensional vulnerability index, which Antigua and Barbuda helped advance, offers a path to correct the unjust treatment accorded to small, vulnerable nations, he said.  It is a vital tool and acknowledges the complexities such States face, in terms of limited economic capacity, structural vulnerabilities and a lack of resilience, as well as their exposure to myriad external shocks.  International financial institutions must integrate the index into their policies to ensure that support is targeted where most needed.  “There can be no just and sustaining reform of the World Bank, other global financial institutions and multilateral banks without their effective use of the MVI,” he said.  “As I said before, the arguments for its use are irrefutable and just.”  These initiatives are a small component of the more fundamental reforms of the international financial architecture, “to provide greater funding accessibility and better terms to include lower interest rates and longer maturity transformations”.  They are part of the wider need for change, to address the historic imbalances against SIDS, including financial exclusion.

EDI RAMA, Prime Minister of Albania, noting that today more than ever, the world needs tolerance and trust, said:  “Tolerance for us Albanians, is not merely the passive acknowledgment and grudging acceptance of someone's diversity.”  The tolerance that Muslim and Christian Albanians expressed during the Second World War towards the Jews by putting their lives on the line requires respect, bridge-building and reflecting on “the possibility of our own biases and prejudices”, he said.  It is with this trust in humanism that Albania became a safe haven for people who escaped death after the fall of Kabul under the Taliban, he said, noting that his country also gave shelter to several thousand Iranian refugees.  “We paid a dear price for being their host,” he said adding that Tehran's totalitarian regime engaged in a large-scale cyberattack on his country — they were brutal but they failed.

This attitude of solidarity and neighbourly relations is the lynchpin of Albania's policy in the Western Balkans, he said.  The deep wounds left by the violent disintegration of the former Yugoslavia still need to be healed in the region, but its countries are embracing the vision, wisdom and courage that led to the creation of the European Union.  Calling on the peoples of the Balkans to work tirelessly “to make a return to the past not just impossible but unimaginable”, he said “the brotherly Republic of Kosovo” is an irreversible reality as a State with a clear European perspective. Dismissing any artificially drawn parallels between Kosovo and the occupied areas of Ukraine, he underscored that Kosovo is an intrinsic part of the international reality, an aspiring member of the Euro-Atlantic community and must not be held hostage by anyone — including those European Union member States that do not recognize Kosovo's rightful place.

Renewing his call on the Russian Federation to stop its war against Ukraine, he said:  “This is a war that neither Ukraine nor our community of like-minded nations chose.” Rewarding an aggressor who annexed the territories of a sovereign country by disarming the victim of the aggression will not bring peace, he stressed, adding that a peace that defeats Ukraine would bring only further aggression.  Earlier this year Tirana hosted the second summit between Ukraine and South-East Europe, he recalled, adding that Albania will continue to stand by that country for as long as necessary.  “There is a war raging in Europe's South-East too,” he said, adding that “there is no place for Hamas and its likes in the world we want to live in”. Acknowledging the right of the Palestinian people to have their own safe place in this world and their right to give birth and raise their children in their own State, he said that there is no moral compass that can relativize and normalize a terrorist organization such as Hamas.  Violence and destruction cannot be a long-term solution for Israel and Palestine, he said, reaffirming support for a two-State solution.

Underscoring the importance of the rule of law and its role in building inclusive and peaceful societies, he said Albania is living proof of the radical transformation that can be brought about by good governance.  “Our public services are now over 95 per cent paperless, and the digitalization of services has curbed corruption and mistrust in institutions,” he said.  His country has invested tremendously in justice reform, he said, adding that the struggle for good governance and institutions is a perpetual effort.  Citing Mother Teresa, “a dear daughter of the Albanians”, he said:  “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.”

FIAMĒ NAOMI MATA'AFA, Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade of Samoa, said the effects of climate change are being lived in real time, from ferocious wildfires to devastating floods and scorching heatwaves, particularly the Category 5 Hurricane Beryl whose devastation hit the Caribbean as well as parts of Mexico, Venezuela and the United States in July. “Our collective efforts must not end at national borders”, she said, counselling that the global community must learn from history to not tread the easier path of abandoning the collective to safeguard the individual in difficult times.  As climate change poses serious challenges for food, water and energy supplies, and forced migrations, particularly for small island developing States, she called on Member States to “honour our commitments and obligations, and to take urgent and ambitious climate action now”.  The outcomes of the first global stocktake to ensure that new nationally determined contributions due in 2025 are as ambitious as possible should be reviewed.

Noting the adoption earlier in the week of the Declaration of Sea Level Rise and Statehood, she said:  “Our statehood and sovereignty cannot be challenged” regardless of the physical changes occasioned by the climate crisis.  She committed to ensuring that Samoa’s ocean spaces, resources and ecosystems will remain healthy for current and future generations.  Because of the threats posed by demands on her country’s critical marine resources, the Samoa Ocean Strategy was launched in 2020 to not only sustainably manage the nation’s resources but also serve to advance ocean stewardship and ensure that cultural and economic values derived from the ocean continue to be available to all generations.  “We call on our partners to continue working with us to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing which deprives us of resource benefits and undermines our management efforts,” she said.  On the global plastic pollution problem, her Government will continue to engage with the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution for an internationally legal binding instrument on this issue.

She underscored the need to protect the world’s terrestrial and marine biodiversity, as “healthy biological diversity maintains the web of life that we rely on, such as food, water, medicine, economic growth, and sustainable livelihoods”.  When mangroves and reef systems are protected, she continued, resilience capabilities to climate change-driven erosion and flooding are increased, thereby supporting healthy ecosystems and the sustainable well-being of coastal communities.  Highlighting food security as a priority requiring food system transformation, she said “we must return to locally produced quality fresh foods with less reliance on processed imported foods”.

Because most small island States face high indebtedness, which is compounded in times of natural disaster, she supported the work of Systematic Observations Financing Facility and the Risk-informed Early Action Partnership and anticipated the timely and effective implementation of the multidimensional vulnerability index by international financial institutions and development partners as a tool to assist these States in accessing finance.  She also requested digital capacity-building support for small island developing States.  Lamenting the loss of civilian lives in Gaza, she called for a cessation of arms provision to the ensuing conflict, also calling for Security Council reforms to ensure greater regional representation.  “The more things change, the more we cannot afford to stay the same.  The tools of a foregone era can no longer ensure our future,” she stressed.

SONEXAY SIPHANDONE, Prime Minister of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, expressed concern over the ongoing armed conflict “that is gravitating towards spilling over the entire Middle East region”, welcoming all international efforts aimed at achieving a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, unhindered humanitarian access and rapid negotiation towards a peace agreement.  Stating that many countries — including his own — “have experienced and suffered firsthand the consequences of war”, he stressed that the only way to solve disputes “is to begin with building mutual trust” accompanied by diplomatic negotiations based on respect for sovereignty, the Charter of the United Nations and international law.  “It is my view that the application of unilateral coercive measures” violates the Charter’s principles and international law, he went on to say, joining his voice to those calling for an end to the economic embargo against Cuba and the removal of all such measures “against any sovereign State”.

Noting that his country will assume the Chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2024 under a theme of “enhancing connectivity and resilience”, he said that this reflects his country’s aim to “turn itself from being a landlocked country to a regional connectivity hub”.  The theme also tracks ASEAN’s common goal of building a more connected, integrated and resilient region that is capable of responding effectively to emerging challenges. He further pointed out, among other initiatives and plans, that ASEAN is accelerating Timor-Leste’s accession process towards admission as a full member “in the near future”.  Turning to developments in Myanmar, he said that, as ASEAN Chair, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic continues to uphold the Association’s commitment to assist Myanmar in finding a “peaceful and durable solution to the ongoing problem” based on a process led and owned by that country.

He also noted his country’s commitment to achieve the SDGs through a focus on socioeconomic development, environmental protection and poverty reduction.  Yet, while progress has been made towards the national SDG of “lives safe from unexploded ordnance”, he said that such ordnance “remains a major threat to the lives of the Lao people and poses obstacles to national development while hindering the progress of other SDGs”.  He therefore called on the international community to provide predictable, adequate support to help the Government address this “long-overdue and challenging problem” in accordance with the Convention on Cluster Munitions. Insufficient funding, he continued, is also a main obstacle to implementing the SDGs as a whole, urging reform of the international financial architecture through collaboration between the UN development system, development partners and international financial institutions.  Such reform must also promote developing countries’ participation in international economic decision-making, norm-setting and global economic governance.

Another key factor for accelerating national development efforts, he said, is promoting science, technology and innovation to facilitate “green growth and digitalization” that is environmentally friendly and to invest in carbon capture and storage.  To this end, he called on the international community to facilitate access to — and transfer — relevant technology and innovation to help “leapfrog” development. “Human capital is another decisive factor,” he stressed, noting that his country has the youngest population in South-East Asia.  The Government has invested in human-capital development to “reap the benefits of its demographic dividend”, and he noted summits organized in 2023 and 2024 aimed at enhancing education, basic health care and nutrition for the Lao people. Adding that his country will continue cooperation with Member States to contribute to the causes of maintaining peace, promoting prosperity, overcoming today’s challenges and achieving the SDGs, he said it does so to “provide enabling conditions for a bright future”.

FELETI PENITALA TEO, Prime Minister of Tuvalu, said the international community must advance “in unity as a family of nations” while recognizing the inherent disparities in each country’s development capacity.  Trailing on the lower end of the global economic scale, the least developed countries and small island developing States face persistent and significant financial challenges in their development efforts.  With an import-oriented economy, Tuvalu’s economic fragility is further intensified by poor natural endowment, geographical isolation from major markets and environmental vulnerability to climatic crisis. “All individuals should have access to resources and opportunities to participate in international decision-making processes to effectively respond to global challenges,” he said, adding that “it is regrettable that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is still excluded from the United Nations system despite its significant contributions and partnerships across various development sectors”.  He also regretted that the Cuban people “continue to bear the economic burden of long-standing unilateral economic blockades”, calling for the blockades’ lifting and for Cuba’s removal from the list of States sponsoring terrorism.

Noting the changing climate’s disproportionate impact on small island developing States like his, he urged all Member States to honour their commitments for climate finance and technology transfer to help these nations develop and enhance their adaptative resilience.  “Phasing out fossil fuels is crucial to global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and curb global warming,” he said.  He backed the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty initiative.  Climate change-induced sea level rise is not only a top development priority, but a “top survivability priority” for Tuvalu.  Current predictions that by 2050 more than 50 per cent of Tuvalu’s land territory will be regularly flooded by regular tidal surges are “frighteningly disturbing”.  Fifty years later, in 2100, more than 90 per cent of its land territory will suffer the same fate.

He said the Assembly’s high-level meeting on sea level rise, held 25 September, marks the international community’s take-off to shape an ambitious Declaration in September 2026.  That document should support the 1 billion people affected by rising sea levels with specific actions and principles.  “The Declaration shall be an unwavering commitment to our sovereignty, dignity, prosperity and rights,” he said.  It will establish the principle of statehood continuity as a tenet of international law and international cooperation and “affirm that statehood cannot be challenged under any circumstances of sea level rise”, he added.  It should also reaffirm the permanency of maritime zones established in line with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and devise concrete programmes for the international community to support countries’ efforts to safeguard their unique culture and heritage, plus establish dedicated and innovative financing mechanisms to support the positive adaptation journeys of the most vulnerable communities. 

On 5 September, Tuvalu celebrated its twenty-fourth anniversary of UN membership.  “Tuvalu remains grateful for the privilege to engage with other Member States in our common pursuit for the advancement of peace and security, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations,” he said. The country will celebrate its forty-sixth independence anniversary on 1 October.  He hoped that commitment to the Pact for the Future and the accompanying Declaration and Compact adopted during the Summit earlier this week provides the much-needed reboot to the global multilateralism architecture and the UN systems generally.  “The global community must seize this opportunity to reaffirm and recommit to multilateralism and international cooperation, to the SDGs and to the principles of the United Nations Charter,” he said, urging all to rally behind the Pact to build a more equitable global system where no nation or community is left behind.

TERRANCE MICHAEL DREW, Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, National Security and Immigration, Health, and Social Security of Saint Kitts and Nevis, noting that small island developing States know only too well the high cost of inaction, said:  “We are small, yes, but our voices carry the weight of rising seas, thundering storms and livelihoods teetering on the edge of erasure.”  Today the international community stands on the precipice of a world where peace is kept at gunpoint, where weapons are romanticized and violence is exalted, he said, adding:  “We need more than diplomatic platitudes.”  World leaders should not resign themselves to the idea that the children of Haiti, Congo, Sudan and Palestine are less deserving of rights and freedoms than children elsewhere.  The greatest delusion is that security and sustainability are separate. Recalling how, generations ago, the Labour Movement in his country paved the way for its people's emancipation, he called for grand ambition and clear vision.

 When the waters rise in the South, he said, even the North will eventually drown.  When the forests burn in the North, the South too will choke from the smoke.  The pandemic has left scars that still fester, and global economic fragmentation threatens to deepen the divides.  Noting that the Caribbean is bracing for an intense hurricane season, he recalled that Grenada, Carriacou, Petite Martinique and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Beryl, and he noted that the southeast United States is being pounded by Hurricane Helene right now.  Recalling how hoteliers in his country have warned his Government that they may soon no longer be able to market themselves as beach resorts, he said the sands that once beckoned visitors from across the globe are now receding, swallowed by rising seas.  In May 2025, Saint Kitts and Nevis will co-host the Global Sustainable Islands Summit with Island Innovation, he said, adding that it will be a call to action to shape practical solutions and partnerships. 

Welcoming the adoption of the multidimensional vulnerability index, he said it is not just another metric; for small island developing States, it is a lifeline.  Its full implementation will demonstrate that the United Nations, and by extension the global system, is committed to uplifting the most vulnerable. Stressing the importance of reforming the Organization, he said:  “Too many voices remain unheard, too many nations marginalized.”  The Council must include representation from the most vulnerable regions — Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa.  Expressing support for the Bridgetown Initiative, he said this bold framework demands a reformation of global finance.  He also highlighted the Argyle Declaration as a shining example of how the Caribbean manages security challenges:  “We go back to basics; we talk to each other.”  The Declaration has been instrumental in facilitating dialogue between Venezuela and Guyana.  This demonstrates that the most complex disputes can be navigated peacefully, he said, reiterating the call for an unconditional ceasefire in Gaza. 

Turning to Haiti, he expressed support for the work of the National Transitional Council as it strives to create an environment conducive to a political solution.  That country should not be seen as a place of sorrow; it is a symbol of human endurance and defiance against injustice, he said, welcoming the establishment of the Multinational Security Support Mission. He also called for Cuba's removal from the United States State Department's list of State sponsors of terrorism as well as the end of the illegal embargo against it.  Noting that Cuban doctors and educators exemplify true philanthropy, he said that the international community should learn from its sustainable solutions and empowerment of its people.  “In the same breath, we must not forget Taiwan,” he said, adding that its people must be included in the work of the United Nations system, particularly in the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).  Saint Kitts and Nevis stands before you today, “not seeking pity, but partnerships,” he said, adding that his country is on a transformative journey to become the Western Hemisphere's first sustainable island State.  Highlighting its desalination plants powered by renewable energy and the construction of the first climate-smart hospital, he called on the international community to stand with small island nations.

KAY RALA XANANA GUSMÃO, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, narrating how, post-independence, his country began a process of internal reconciliation amongst countrymen and with neighbouring Indonesia, he said reconciliation, being “a powerful mechanism for healing the past and building the future”, and trust are indispensable instruments of peace for the world today.  Though the UN was founded on the basis of hope for achieving peace in all its dimensions and in all places, finding collective solutions to global challenges, and uniting international cooperation around these goals; “there has never been so much hopelessness, uncertainty, instability and distrust.” With six years to the SDGs target date, and being so far from achieving them, some countries have lost the race even before taking off.  He reminded of how, with the Group of Seven Plus (G7+) countries, Timor-Leste proposed the inclusion of Goal 16 — Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions — in the 2030 Agenda, and emphasized their interconnectedness. 

These countries, he continued, have a similar problem: lack of funding.  However, while his country has made some progress, more still needs to be done as social and economic inequalities have been exacerbated by overlapping crises, with hunger being “the most illustrative face of inequality”.  And because more than 800 million people suffer from extreme hunger worldwide, Timor-Leste is diversifying its economy, emphasizing agriculture and the blue economy. “By investing in these sectors, we aim to improve the livelihood of our people and enhance food security,” he stressed. Announcing his country’s ratification of the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, he committed to full support of and active participation in negotiations on the Marine Plastics Treaty. Timor-Leste will also sustainably explore its ocean resources to develop the country, while protecting the marine ecosystem for future generations.

As small island developing States and least developed countries are enormously challenged in achieving the SDGs, they cannot fare better without improved financial conditions, capacity-building and technology transfer.  “We are trapped in international financial systems that place us disadvantaged, burdening us with conditional aid, financial assistance and debt,” he lamented, urgently calling for the Loss and Damage Fund, approved at COP28 in Dubai, to secure more significant contributions from wealthy and developed countries.  Echoing the UN Secretary-General, he said “many of us won the battle against colonialism and the struggle for democracy, but we are still fighting for sustainable development”.  In the Secretary-General’s “New Agenda for Peace”, the UN chief notes that the unequal suffering caused by the effects of climate change is among the greatest injustices in this world.  “Timor-Leste agrees!” he said, adding:  “We all know that we can only win this battle with genuine global solidarity and effort.” 

He regretted the proliferation of conflicts and wars despite global possession of instruments of international law, diplomacy and multilateral cooperation for peaceful dispute resolution, which are not applied consistently and are often ignored.  He therefore called for “the peaceful resolution of international disputes and conflicts, whether related to borders, sovereignty or cooperation” and demanded the implementation of relevant Security Council resolutions towards a referendum for self-determination for Western Sahara.  The conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine should immediately cease, with the UN Charter applied courageously.  He further called for long-term, comprehensive reform of the Security Council “as only then will we have a solid and transparent architecture for global peace”.

SIAOSI 'OFAKIVAHAFOLAU SOVALENI, Prime Minister of Tonga, urging swift reform of the Security Council, stated that the organ must include “non-traditional security issues like climate change” in its agenda and that it must hear the voices of small island developing States. Further, “in our quest to leave no one behind, we must take a hard look at the lagging progress in achieving sustainable development by 2030”, he said.  Without decisive, collection action — “now”, he underscored — that goal “will be just words, and we will have further eroded people’s trust and hopes”. He added:  “The key is not words, the key is our shared commitment to action.” Recalling that a recent gathering of Pacific Islands Forum leaders witnessed torrential rains, flash flooding and a magnitude 6.9 earthquake “that struck Nuku’alofa on the first day of the meeting”, he stressed that this was “yet another stark reminder of our vulnerability to natural disasters”.

“The 2024 Sustainable Development Goals report before us is grim,” he went on to observe, and “reveals what we see every day on the ground”.  Climate change, escalating inequality and persistent conflict compounds challenges, leaving many countries struggling to meet even the most fundamental goals. “Without urgent and coordinated global action, the vision of a more equitable and sustainable world may remain just another elusive dream,” he stressed.  Recalling that his country — “decade after decade, year after year” — warns the Assembly of climate change’s existential threat to the Pacific, he urged the international community — “once again” — to restrict global warming to 1.5°C. Industrialized nations must strengthen their emissions-reduction commitments, and Pacific Island nations must be able to access climate finance speedily and easily.  While cyclones and typhoons leave behind destruction that takes years to repair, “the human cost is far greater”, he stressed.

The most alarming aspect of the climate crisis, he went on to say, is the “unprecedented” rise in sea levels.  “In some parts of the Pacific, sea levels have risen by 10 to 15 centimetres in the past 30 years,” he noted — more than double the global average. For Pacific nations, these changes are not merely environmental issues; they are existential threats that jeopardize the very existence of small Pacific Island countries — including Tonga, he pointed out:  “This is not just about losing land, it is about our very identities.”  Urging immediate action, he said that the Pacific Islands Forum’s 2023 declaration on the continuity of Statehood asserts the continued existence of Forum members’ Statehood, sovereignty, rights and duties and “underscores our determination to safeguard both the territorial and human dimensions of our States under international law”.  He therefore called for global cooperation to achieve the declaration’s objectives in line with the principles of fairness, equity and shared responsibility.

Also spotlighting the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for small island developing States, he said that this is “our collective vision for sustainable growth and resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges”. However, reforming the international financial architecture will be crucial to support this new programme of action, and such reform must include redefining eligibility for development resources, improving access to climate finance and creating long-term debt sustainability.  Concluding — “allow me to close the circle” and return to the theme of “leaving no one behind” — he said that this aspiration must guide international efforts to eradicate poverty, end discrimination and uphold the fundamental rights of individuals.  He urged: “The advancement of one community or nation cannot occur in isolation from the well-being of others.”

HAMZA ABDI BARRE, Prime Minister of Somalia, said “in the spirit of unity and shared responsibility”, the international community must confront the persistent and escalating conflicts that cause immense human suffering and destabilize entire regions.  He urgently called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the protection of civilians, and adherence to international humanitarian law in Sudan, Ukraine and Gaza.  Noting that regional threats directly challenge national sovereignty and stability, he said Somalia now faces a serious threat from Ethiopia’s recent actions, which flagrantly violate its territorial integrity.  “Ethiopia’s attempts to annex parts of Somalia under the guise of securing sea access are both unlawful and unnecessary,” he said, adding that Somali ports have always been accessible for Ethiopia’s legitimate commercial activities.  Mogadishu asserts its sovereign right to defend its territorial integrity and calls on Ethiopia to cease its provocations and adhere to international law. 

“We urge the international community to stand with Somalia in condemning these violations and upholding the principles of national sovereignty and territorial integrity, which are the cornerstones of international peace and security,” he said.  Regional stability depends on mutual respect for these principles, and Ethiopia must be held accountable for actions that threaten to destabilize the Horn of Africa.  Turning to peacekeeping, he said Somalia’s experience as host of key missions such as African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) underscores the importance of sustainable funding.  Both missions have been critical in countering Al-Shabaab and supporting statebuilding.  As the Council discusses the 2025 security arrangements, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia is expected to take over with a focus on counterterrorism and capacity-building. “Its success depends on reliable funding,” he said.

On Security Council, he said it must reflect the voices and concerns of the world’s nations, particularly those in Africa, Asia and Latin America.  “We support the Ezulwini Consensus, which calls for a more representative and inclusive Council,” he said, adding it will enhance the Organization’s credibility and effectiveness.  The reform of international financial institutions is also crucial to build a fairer global economy that promotes inclusive growth and sustainable development.  “The existing international financial system is heavily skewed in favour of a few, perpetuating inequalities and restricting the ability of developing nations to thrive,” he said.  “We call for reforms that make these institutions more accountable, transparent, and responsive to the needs of the world's poorest and most vulnerable.”

Turning to the country’s progress, he said “Somalia has come a long way on its journey toward stability and development.” Its successful completion of the debt relief process let the country reclaim its economic sovereignty and reintegrate into the global financial system.  Somalia’s accession into the East African Community marks a new era of regional integration, trade and cooperation.  “We have also made a historic stride in lifting the long-standing arms embargo, a step that will further enable us to safeguard our sovereignty and security,” he said.  Security is fundamental to development, and Somalia has made the fight against terrorism a priority with remarkable success.  In the past two years, its national security forces, alongside the country’s courageous citizens, have reclaimed more than two thirds of the territory once under the control of the Al-Shabaab terrorist group, significantly diminishing their operational capabilities.  “As we look to the future, Somalia stands ready to play an active and responsible role in the global community,” he said.  “As an incoming member of the UN Council in 2025-2026, we are fully committed to working alongside all nations to confront the world’s most pressing challenges.”

CHRISTIAN NTSAY, Prime Minister of Madagascar, noting how world peace is being undermined currently by a multitude of crises, pointed to the war in Ukraine, terrorism and transnational crime, the climate emergency and growing inequalities that have created a fertile ground for conflicts and instability.  But “we cannot give in to fear or fatalism”, he underscored, adding that multilateralism remains the best tool for building a safer world.  Noting that the current multilateral system is struggling to respond to a profoundly changing world, he called for a courageous and ambitious reform of the United Nations, particularly the Security Council. Africa, a continent experiencing demographic and economic growth, must not remain on the periphery of global decision-making.

Stressing the need for effective implementation of the Paris Agreement and the strengthening of commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, he highlighted the need to expedite the mobilization of $100 billion from the Paris Agreement to finance an energy transition policy in Africa. It is imperative to support developing countries in their transition to a green, resilient economy by providing adequate financial and technological resources and recognizing their right to development.  Calling for an inclusive and equitable global development system, he said only a fairer and more equitable international trade will guarantee equitable access to knowledge, technologies and fairer financing and investment systems.

Drawing attention to the concept of "Fihavanana", the Malagasy art of living together, he said it embodies “our profound aspiration to live in harmony, mutual respect and solidarity”.  His Government places human capital as the first pillar of development, he said, adding that over the last five years, Madagascar has invested heavily in education and teaching, health and family planning, security, innovative and inclusive social programmes, the fight against malnutrition and infrastructure.  Faithful to its tradition as a peaceful nation, Madagascar has prioritized democracy and good governance, he said, noting that the Global Peace Index places the country second among the most peaceful in sub-Saharan Africa in 2024. The third-largest rice producer in Africa, his country aspires to become the first with the Government's new rural development policy which focuses on the optimal exploitation of all rice basins in the country. 

Highlighting his country’s efforts to address development challenges, he noted that it is building the flagship Route du Soleil — Sunshine Road — on the eastern side of the Great Island.  This will enhance trade, boost regional tourism and improve local economies, he said, adding that renewable energy is among the Government’s priorities.  His Government is building solar parks in 47 districts across the country, he said, adding that another focus area is to increase employment among youth and rural populations.  Although a low emitter of greenhouse gases, his country is among those most vulnerable to the effects of climate change.  As “Madagascar is one of the few countries saving the planet”, with a negative carbon footprint thanks to its forests, he urged the international community to accelerate climate adaptation funding especially for island nations such as his.  “Madagascar is determined to preserve this precious natural heritage for future generations,” he pledged.

FILIP IVANOVIĆ, Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs of Montenegro, said the global community has failed to provide an effective and a comprehensive response towards the key challenges of carrying everyone along in matters of peace and security, sustainable development and human dignity. “Achievement of a peaceful and sustainable future, against the backdrop of one-sided, arbitrary and authoritative actions of a handful of international actors, but whose actions are jeopardizing the peace and welfare of the majority, will insist on our full-scale vigilance and awareness, and put our words and our rhetoric to a practical test,” he stressed.  Multilateralism is the solution.  Expressing support for the Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace, he called on Member States to throw their weight behind the realization of the 2030 Agenda, pointing out, however, the inability of developing economies to sufficiently finance policies in this regard, particularly in the light of the negative impacts of the COVID‑19 pandemic and the Russian Federation's invasion of Ukraine. 

“We are committed to promoting good governance and strong institutions at all levels as key enablers of sustainable development, peace and security, and we strongly advocate for reforms towards a more inclusive and representative international financial architecture,” he stressed.  He lamented the escalating violence and humanitarian situation in Gaza and called for a humanitarian ceasefire, during which negotiations would be conducted towards a two-State solution, “as only a two-State model guarantees lasting and sustainable peace in the region”, he said.

Similarly, then the Russian Federation should, in line with international humanitarian law, protect children, halt attacks on civilian infrastructure and allow aid to get to the affected civilian population.  “We emphasize yet again that there can be no impunity for war and other heinous crimes and that we must ensure responsibility, as a precondition for ensuring a durable peace,” he said, supporting all accountability initiatives to fight impunity and ensure justice.  Montenegro will continue to support Ukraine and provide it with financial, humanitarian, military and diplomatic aid, he said, calling for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in line with the UN Charter and Assembly resolutions.  On climate change, he urged the international community to strengthen climate action and fully implement relevant treaties like the Paris Agreement.  He highlighted the Human Rights Council as a platform to be harnessed in preventing the emergence or escalation of conflicts and committed to strengthening that body in a bid to preserve the universality and independence of the human rights system.

He further called for a reform of the United Nations system, particularly the Security Council in its constitution and representation and the General Assembly, whose role and authority should be strengthened.  Echoing John Adams’ words:  “Every problem is an opportunity in disguise,” he said the current global challenges in their various dimensions present the international community “a unique opportunity to use the current deteriorating international environment as momentum for building a more equal, just and sustainable world, with a revitalized multilateralism based on fair and humane globalization, respect for human rights and dignity of all”.

RASHID MEREDOV, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, spotlighted his country’s efforts to promote a “model of neutrality” within the United Nations, recalling that 2025 will mark the thirtieth anniversary of a General Assembly resolution recognizing Turkmenistan’s neutral status.  Stating that “the time has come to reflect on the significance of neutrality for global politics, and its potential in the current strategic landscape”, he proposed an initiative to accord neutral countries “priority partnership” with the United Nations in its peacekeeping efforts.  Additionally, he spotlighted his country’s Assembly resolution declaring 2025 as the “International Year of Peace and Trust”, stating that Turkmenistan will “take the leading role in organizing relevant events”.  Nevertheless, it will rely on the support of all Member States and the Secretariat to ensure that the year becomes “a manifestation of the goodwill of the international community”.

Turning to Afghanistan, he underlined the importance of supporting the Afghan people’s aspirations to “begin peaceful, constructive work to rebuild the economic and social spheres”.  For its part, Turkmenistan — together with international partners — is implementing several major infrastructure projects in the country, including the construction of a “strategic Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India gas pipeline”.  Others will see the construction of power-transmission and fibre-optic communication lines along the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan route, as well as a new railway from Turkmenistan to Afghanistan.  He also emphasized that his country’s humanitarian aid to the Afghan people will continue, including building social facilities and educating Afghan students in Turkmenistan’s educational institutions. Turkmenistan, he went on to say, will additionally focus on protecting the environment in Central Asia and the Caspian Sea region. 

In that context, he urged more active, extensive UN involvement in “saving the Aral Sea”.  Also pointing to Central Asia’s struggle with desertification and reduced water resources, he said these challenges requires the “presence of [UN] resident offices in the region on a permanent basis”.  He added that “Turkmenistan is ready to work on this”, proposing the establishment of a specialized regional centre for climate-related technologies.  And, emphasizing that preserving the Caspian Sea as a “unique natural complex” is not just an internal affair for littoral States — but a global problem — he urged systematic, targeted cooperation with Caspian States to combat the ecological and climate issues affecting the Sea.  While noting that the approaching eightieth anniversary of the UN should be a time for reflection, assessment and correction, he underscored that commitment to UN values, principles and goals must remain “unshakeable” — “because they have proven their viability and alignment with the fundamental long-term interests of humanity”.

CHO TAE-YUL, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, noted that the year 2024 has sadly earned the distinction of being the most conflict-ridden since the Second World War.  Two billion people, or roughly one in four, reside in conflict zones; 310 million people require humanitarian assistance; and more than 120 million, or one in 70, are refugees.  There is a growing belief that multilateralism is ineffective and that the United Nations is no longer relevant, “but I stand before you today to affirm that this is not true”, he said — with his nation’s very existence as a free, democratic and prosperous country as the proof that “the United Nations in action works”.  It was the first-ever UN-led coalition that defended the freedom and democracy in the Republic of Korea ravaged by war in the early 1950s.  “We need more of the UN in action, not less,” he affirmed.  “But we must not forget, ‘UN in action’ actually means ‘UN Members in action’.”

The Republic of Korea is one of the core contributors to UN peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts around the world, and advocates strengthening peacebuilding architecture, with the Peacebuilding Commission at its core.  “However, we must also face the dysfunctions that have hampered the Council’s effectiveness,” he stated.  Expanding elected membership under equitable geographical distribution and through regular elections will contribute to a more democratic, effective, transparent, representative and accountable Council.  This year, the Republic of Korea has committed $200 million in humanitarian aid to Ukraine, and also plans to provide $100 million to tackle humanitarian crises by year’s end, including $30 million for civilians affected by the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.  “As the first country to transition from an aid recipient to a donor nation, we firmly believe that we can and should be the tide that lifts other boats,” he stated.  ODA has grown by 30 per cent this year from last year, and quadrupled since 2010, and recently, his country committed an additional $300 million to the Green Climate Fund.

“The heartbreaking tragedy is that just miles from Seoul, we find cynicism at its bleakest,” he lamented.  The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea threatens peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and beyond with its ongoing development of nuclear and missile capabilities, as shown by the recent disclosure of uranium enrichment facilities — as well as provocations that have stooped down to despicable levels such as sending trash balloons into the South.  Moreover, Pyongyang has been engaged in military cooperation with Moscow, providing it with missiles and millions of ammunitions. Pyongyang is only able to develop these weapons of mass destruction with impunity by repressing the human rights of its people and diverting scarce resources from its starving populace.  He noted that the 15 August unification doctrine unveiled by President Yoon Suk Yeol presents a vision of a unified Korean Peninsula that is free, peaceful and prosperous, recognizing that “the road to peace runs through the expansion of freedom and through the unification of the Korean Peninsula”.

PENNY WONG, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, said that UN rules matter, “never more so than in times of conflict — when they help guide us out of darkness, back towards light.  Back on a path towards peace, stability and prosperity.”  Israel must comply with the binding orders of the International Court of Justice, she said, and shared the frustration of most Member States that the Palestinian State still does not exist over 77 years since the Assembly adopted resolution 181.  “We must all contribute new ways to break the cycle of conflict,” she said.  “Australia wants to engage on new ways to build momentum, including using the Council to set a pathway for two States, with a clear timeline for the international declaration of Palestinian Statehood.”  The world’s peoples are counting on Member States to rededicate themselves to international humanitarian law and other laws meant to preserve peace and security. 

She noted the Russian Federation continues its vicious assault on Ukraine’s people and sovereignty, and it ended the mandate of the Security Council’s Panel of Experts on the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea after 14 years of unanimous support.  The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea continues its unlawful activities with impunity, conducting illegal arms transfers to the Russian Federation and threatening the Asia-Pacific region, including the Republic of Korea and Japan.  The Russian Federation is sharing nuclear and space information and technology with Iran.  “Rules are being blurred, undermined, and at times, blatantly violated,” she said.  “We must rally to defend these rules that protect all of us; these rules that form the character of the world that we want.”

Australia holds a vision for the world in which no country dominates and no country is dominated.  “When disputes inevitably arise, we insist those differences are managed through dialogue, and according to the rules, not simply by force or raw power,” she said.  Canberra has consistently pressed China on peace and stability in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait and welcomes the resumption of leader and military-level dialogue between the United States and China.  “These rules are not a Western construct,” she said, adding that the Asian-Pacific region has used international law to pursue peaceful ways to resolve disputes.  Australia’s candidacy for a non-permanent Council seat for the 2029-2030 term reflects its deep commitment to contribute to peace and security.  The Council needs reform, she said, calling for greater permanent and non-permanent representation for Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Asia-Pacific.  “This body must represent the world as it is in the twenty-first century,” she said.

Turning to the 2030 Agenda, she noted over one third of the SDGs are stalled or regressing and financing targets are not being met.  The global financial architecture must be strengthened and to do so, Australia is backing the multidimensional vulnerability index and the Bridgetown Initiative.  “This is why Australia is championing reforms that make multilateral development banks more responsive to global shocks, and build sustainability and resilience, particularly in the smallest and most vulnerable countries,” she said.  This year, Canberra committed Australian $492 million to the Asian Development Fund, working with Japan to unlock a record $5 billion in new assistance to the region’s most vulnerable countries over the next decade.  Financial pressures are further strained by the trend of trade being used as a point of leverage rather than an opportunity, as economic interdependence is misused for strategic and political ends. “We must keep working together to uphold these trade rules that underpin our economic growth and the livelihoods of our peoples,” she said.

ALVA ROMANUS BAPTISTE, Minister for External Affairs, International Trade, Civil Aviation and Diaspora Affairs of Saint Lucia, recalling how over the decades, the representatives of small island developing States came to the United Nations to state the case for fairer treatment of their developmental needs, said:  “We are indeed different, indeed special and indeed unique in our sizes, our economies, our finances, our social circumstances, our vulnerabilities.”  The global financial system has amplified these inequities by the measurements and standards it has employed to assess development.  Due to such States’ persistent advocacy and their faith in multilateralism, the international community recently adopted the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda.  Also welcoming the recent adoption of the multidimensional vulnerability index, he said it took the international community 32 years to develop and adopt this vital and necessary tool.  “Let us not wait another 32 years to test and implement it,” he said.

Caribbean economies have been plagued by a number of interrelated factors, including persistent fiscal deficits and high debt, he pointed out, adding that these have been significantly exacerbated by external shocks, including frequent and major fluctuations in energy prices, financial crises, the COVID‑19 pandemic and the Russian Federation-Ukraine war, “not to mention the planet’s greatest existential threat, climate change”. Saint Lucia is “dismayed and disappointed” that the Loss and Damage Fund established at COP28 is yet to be operationalized, he said, urging those concerned to activate it so that small island developing States can receive timely support on the scale required. The world must recompense these States for the injustice of the climate crisis, he said adding that “those countries that propelled their economic development through the unholy and inhumane transatlantic slave trade and slavery of our African ancestors must pay reparations for this crime against humanity”.

Calling on the UN to consider the question of reparations for these crimes, he said:  “This is why, in part, our Caribbean civilization resents the current carnage in Gaza and the West Bank.”  Condemning terrorism in all its forms, he noted that humanitarianism has been lost in the carnage, and pointed to the 289 aid workers, including 207 UNRWA team members, and the more than 110 journalists who have been killed in Gaza. The unnecessary undermining of Palestinian Statehood is the root cause of the current conflict, he said, adding that while Israelis and Palestinians deserve to live side by side in peace, “peace for Israel must not come at the expense of the Palestinian people”.

The right to self-determination is a universal right, he said, adding that it is this same right which says that the Russian Federation must end its unwarranted war against Ukraine.  The same right determines that the heroic people of Cuba have a right to determine their own path to development, free of the illegal embargo imposed by the United States.  Similarly, he added, “the 23.5 million people of the Republic of China on Taiwan have the right to be a member of the UN” and the people of Venezuela must be allowed to conduct their internal affairs without sanctions imposed upon them by other States.  He also called for more resources to be provided for the Multinational Security Support Mission for Haiti as well as more humanitarian assistance in that country.

KAMINA JOHNSON SMITH, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Jamaica, said while Member States all face the same world of multiple and intersecting challenges, “the great difference between us, however, is our capacity to meet, withstand and recover from the shocks they bring”, as these challenges cannot be solved alone but through multilateralism, diplomacy and international cooperation.  With its macro-economic fundamentals stronger today than any time over the past 50 years, Jamaica is now an attractive destination for investment, she noted, adding that while these advancements have been hard-won with sacrifice, partnerships and prudent management, “we recognize that our many successes can be eroded by exogenous shocks including climate change, which we view as a clear and present threat to humanity”.  Hurricane Beryl, in July, not only dislocated families and communities, or damaged infrastructure and livestock, it mirrors the reality whereby “we experience almost half of each year in the uncertainty of a hurricane season”, she continued, with natural and climate-based disasters continually setting back “our efforts to attain the SDGs and realize sustained, inclusive growth and development”.

Jamaica has therefore taken steps to strengthen its ability to respond to and recover from such disasters through a risk layered approach to disaster response financing by significantly increasing resources to its Contingency Fund and the National Natural Disaster Reserve Fund, among other measures, she said.  It also counts of effective international cooperation to counter the negative impacts of climate change and pursue climate justice, while urging major polluting nations to honour their commitments under the Paris Agreement and meet their finance obligations.  In the same vein, she underscored the need for international cooperation to drive sustained efforts to tackle structural and systemic issues that constrain access to development financing.  “We call upon wealthier countries and international financial institutions to partner with developing countries and redouble their efforts to create and implement innovative strategies to unlock financing and spur investments in attaining the SDGs,” she stressed. 

Joining other countries, Jamaica calls for the discontinuation of the crippling economic, commercial and financial embargo against “our closest Caribbean neighbour, Cuba” and for its declassification as a State sponsor of terrorism.  On the Palestinian conflict, she condemned both the 7 October 2023 attacks by Hamas and the consequential counterattacks by Israel, stating that “the undeniable humanitarian crisis and instability compel all parties to resolve the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy”.  Her country therefore calls for a two-State solution to the situation and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.  Welcoming the installation of the Transitional Presidential Council in Haiti, she observed that the restoration of peace and security in that country is critical to the conduct of free and fair elections as well as sustainable economic growth and development.  The international community should, therefore, significantly increase contributions to its Humanitarian Response Plan, which remains underfunded at 39 per cent of the target.

MOHAMED ALI NAFTI, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Migration and Tunisians Abroad of Tunisia, said that while the international community aims to achieve a more peaceful, just and sustainable world, through the 2030 Agenda and other frameworks, the terrible humanitarian tragedy of the Palestinian people continues on their own territory for nearly a year.  While they are subjected to the most heinous war crimes perpetrated by the occupying forces, the international community stands silent and fails to enforce international laws.  “The only way for a safe future for all is to hold to the belief that there are no double standards,” he said, asking:  “How can there be no one left behind if the tragedy of Palestinian people is ignored?”  Immediate steps must be taken to end the genocide of the people in Gaza.  The Security Council must break its stalemate and hold the occupying authorities responsible and impose an immediate ceasefire.

“The war on Gaza jeopardizes peoples’ trust in the Organization,” he said.  The UN must carry out the International Court of Justice’s 19 July advisory ruling, that Israel’s occupation of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, is unlawful.  “This opinion puts the international community to the test to stop double standards,” he said.  Tunisia supports the Palestinians right to an independent State and full UN membership.  He condemned Israel’s attacks on Lebanon and called on the Council to take a firm stand to stop crimes without delay.  “The principle of leaving no one behind cannot be achieved with empty slogans,” he added.

Turning to issues outside the Mideast, he said the economic gap between the Global North and South is widening and the international financial system cannot meet the needs of developing countries.  “There must be necessary reviews and reforms to address the challenges,” he said.  States and institutions must make joint efforts and respect international law without discrimination.  After eight decades, the Organization must review its rules.  “Today’s threats cannot be met using the same tools and methods that take into account the needs of only a few States,” he said.  Developed countries must support the growth and sustainable development of developing countries. “There must be an end to all forms of interference in countries’ internal affairs.  The challenges can only be faced based on rebuilding international rules using mutual respect and equality.”  Debt restructuring is needed to let developing countries recover from financial crises they did not create and to focus on meeting the needs of their people.

Turning to the issue of irregular migration, he said this trend is growing in many regions, especially the Mediterranean.  “Solutions must be developed by the countries of origin, transit and destination, as well as relevant organizations, to meet the root causes,” he said.  “There must be respect for human rights.  And a rejection to exploit migrants.”  He stressed the importance of reform, democracy and the rule of law to fight corruption and achieve people’s right to sustainable development, as well as women’s inclusion in public life at all levels, including peacekeeping.  He supported the Libyan Government and rejected all forms of interference in its internal affairs, and supported efforts to restore peace in Syria and Yemen.  He called for “African solutions for African problems.”  To meet global challenges, “solidarity and cooperation are necessary.  The United Nations is the only hope we have as we prepare to celebrate its eightieth anniversary next year.”

PETER SHANEL AGOVAKA, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Solomon Islands, said it is vital to reform the Bretton Woods institutions to ensure they are democratic and adequately represent the rise of the Global South, as well as the multidimensional challenges facing small island developing States.  He also reiterated the call for establishing a permanent seat for those countries in decision-making within the international financial architecture.  Noting that in the last 46 years, the United Nations has conducted its relations with his country “from a distance”, he called for an enhanced UN country presence in Solomon Islands, the third-largest Pacific country as well as one of the least developed countries of the world.  Highlighting a foreign policy based on the principle of “friends to all, and enemy to none”, he said it upholds respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all 133 countries it has formalized relationships with — this includes respect for the One China principle.  It is urgent to reform the Council with equitable geographical representation and revised working methods, he said, urging delegates to shift into text-based negotiations this session. 

Condemning the terror attack on Israel by Hamas, he said it is unacceptable that Israel’s collective punishment on Gaza has claimed more than 41,000 Palestinian lives in less than a year.  Those with influence must do more for peace instead of fanning the flame of the expanding conflict into Lebanon.  Reaffirming the inalienable right of self-determination of New Caledonia and French Polynesia, he said the recent brutal violence in the former calls for a new political solution. Solomon Islands has already banned single use plastics, he announced, while looking forward to the finalization of negotiations on the treaty to end plastic pollution, including in the marine environment, in November this year.  Expressing concern about the discharge of treated radioactive contaminated water into the ocean by Japan, he said “the lack of national and regional scientific knowledge on understanding the intergenerational impact and the transboundary nature of the discharge continues to cause uneasiness and anxiety.”  The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other specialized agencies must support State capacity to monitor this, he said, highlighting the “sad history of our region being used to test, store and dump nuclear weapons and waste”. 

Thanking Cuba for training of medical students from his country, he said that country has done this despite enduring more than six decades of economic, commercial and financial embargo by the United States.  Welcoming the power of South-South cooperation, he highlighted China’s various development initiatives and its commitment to establish an Ocean Research Center.  That country has become Solomon Islands’ largest infrastructure partner and is currently supporting its digital transformation with the installation of 161 communication towers.  Turning to climate change, he noted that his country is located in a hot spot where the impact of climate change is three times the global average.  “The voluntary approach under the Paris Agreement has failed miserably,” he said, calling for a stronger legally binding framework that will put the international community on a 1.5°C trajectory.  “The changing narrative on climate change is unacceptable,” he said, adding that ambitious climate action has been replaced by a “discussion on sinking and migration”.  Calling on the Group of Twenty (G0), which is responsible for 80 per cent of global emissions, to take a stronger leadership in the fight against climate change, he said his Government is working to ensure a smooth transition from its least developed country status.

LEJEUNE MBELLA MBELLA, Minister for External Relations of Cameroon, emphasized that climate-displaced people are now as numerous as refugees and internally displaced victims of war.  Cameroon is sparing no effort to find relevant solutions to the crisis, calling for the Paris Agreement to be implemented without delay.  Unfortunately, he noted, the financial and technical means and resources are still “mobilized in a parsimonious way”.  Citing conflicts and sources of tension, old or new, that spare no geographical are — including Sudan, Gaza, Lebanon and Ukraine — he noted such situations fuel the arms race, including in space, in the seas and oceans, as well as increasing use of light weapons and weapons of mass destruction.  They also drive geopolitical tensions, rivalries and mistrust between States, threatening that the world may live through another dark chapter in human history, as was the case at the beginning of the twentieth century — a trend that must be reversed as soon as possible. 

Given that Africa remains the only continent without a permanent member of the Council, he insisted that this injustice be corrected, with two permanent seats with veto power and two additional non-permanent seats.  Further, as the international community approaches the 2030 deadline for the SDGs, it is clear that the expected results are far from being achieved, with the financial and technological means of implementation not fully mobilized.  He therefore called for renewed political will and more decisive action to overcome the situation.  He cited the new Doha Programme of Action for least developed countries, the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS, the programme concerning landlocked countries which will be adopted at the next conference in Gaborone, Botswana in December, and the African Union’s Agenda 2063 — frameworks for the development of the poorest countries that must be implemented “if we want to leave no one behind”.

Turning to domestic affairs, he listed plans, projects and programmes for recovery and reconstruction, aiming for Cameroon to become an emerging country by 2035. Similarly, humanitarian actions have been set up to meet the special and pressing needs of populations, especially those in rural areas or those affected by the atrocities of Boko Haram in the far north, as well as those affected by the socio-political crisis in the north-west and south-west regions.  However, actions deployed by developing countries can only produce results if the global macroeconomic framework is reformed.  This framework is based on institutions that have been in place since the Second World War, which have become obsolete and whose structure and organization are largely at the source of disruptions, imbalances, dysfunctions and even inequalities that still do not promote the full development of poor countries and the Global South.  He therefore joined the appeal for reform, in particular for better representation of developing countries in financial institutions, fairer taxation, appropriate monetary policy, more sustainable debt, better adapted energy transition, controlled industrialization and decent work. 

TAYE ATSKE-SELASSIE AMDE, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, recalled a part of his country’s statement to the General Assembly in 1950 where it expressed its “anxiety concerning the surprises which the future may hold in store, fears that the United Nations may be called upon to face events even more serious than those of the present time and that such problems may greatly exceed its powers and capacity”.  That future is now, he declared, warning that amidst existential threats from the arms race, extreme poverty, and inequality, “our constrained ability to manage the emerging multi-polar world carries the risk of undermining multilateralism”.  Because challenges the UN faces are proving to exceed its powers and capacity, Ethiopia believes that collective security will be guaranteed when States are able to properly exercise their authority and safeguard their national security.

Noting that without being guided by the UN Charter, the General Assembly risks becoming a non-consequential platform with no guarantee for meaningfully contributing to global peace and security, he called for urgent Security Council reform, which would not be only about rectifying the injustice meted on Africa but also the Council’s credibility.  Member States should therefore prioritize Africa’s representation in both membership categories of the 15-member organ, as “there is no shortcut or half solution to this longstanding quest for equality”.  He stated that the African Union’s Agenda 2063 is being implemented in consonance with the 2030 Agenda, but the continent’s compounding debt crisis requires urgent intervention.  Therefore, all actors in development finance should “work with us with a sense of solidarity and cooperation to navigate the challenges of reform and attain sustainable economic growth and development,” he urged. 

The Cooperative Framework Agreement of the Nile River Basin will soon enter into force with the required number of ratifications, he announced, paving way for the sustained cooperation and mutual development across the entire river basin.  Lamenting the insecurity across the Red Sea and Indian Ocean, manifested in conflicts, piracy and other illicit activities, he assured of efforts to collaborate with Ethiopia’s neighbours towards a peaceful navigation of the high seas.  On terrorism in the Horn of Africa, he said:  “I am confident that the Government of Somalia will recognize the sacrifices we made to Somalia’s liberation from the grip of terrorist groups.”  He therefore rejected unfounded allegations against his country and called on the Somali Government to work with it to end terrorism in the region.

Right of Reply

The representative of Iran, responding to the statement made by the Israeli Prime Minister earlier in the day, said he made an unsuccessful attempt to distract attention from his brutal war crimes.  In Gaza, 42,000 civilians, mostly women and children, have been killed, critical infrastructure has been destroyed, and schools, hospitals and mosques destroyed. He has used starvation as a method of war.  Making unfounded accusations against countries in the region, including Iran, is a standard practice of the Israeli regime.  These attacks are made to conceal Israel’s blatant crimes and brutalities in the region.  No amount of lies can cover up this regime’s warmongering policies, he stressed. 

The representative of Indonesia, responding to the representative of Vanuatu, said that as a robust democracy, her country listens to the will of its people.  Since 2001, special laws grant Papuans greater autonomy; further, the Papua People’s Assembly and other representative bodies ensure their cultural and political representation, she said.  Noting increase in the number of seats held by Papuans, she added that her Government ensures that all provinces in Papua receive high budget allocations towards infrastructure, social welfare projects and human development.

The representative of Japan said the water from Fukushima nuclear plant being discharged into the Pacific Ocean by her country is not nuclear-contaminated.  It has undergone a rigorous purification process, and has negligible impact, she said, adding that the IAEA has verified this.  The Agency published a comprehensive report confirming that it did not identify anything inconsistent with relevant international safety standards, she said, adding that her Government will engage with all stakeholders and participate in a multi-layered monitoring process.

The representative of India said the United Nations witnessed a tragedy this morning when the Prime Minister of Pakistan had the audacity to attack the world’s largest democracy.  Pakistan has repeatedly carried out cross-border terrorism and other exercises.  She criticized the country, saying it has a history of rigged elections.  Pakistan simply covets Indian territory, she said, stressing that the Indian Prime Minister’s words were unacceptable.

The representative of Pakistan said that despite India’s deflections, Jammu and Kashmir will never be part of that country.  Stressing that this is not an internal matter, he pointed to numerous Council resolutions calling for a free and impartial plebiscite to allow the people of Kashmir to exercise their right to self-determination.  However, India has chosen the path of repression and a brutal occupation — entire villages have been razed and Kashmiri political leaders remain incarcerated, he said, adding that 8 million Kashmiris live under siege.