Noting that the current global trajectory would not fully eradicate poverty by 2030 target date, the Economic and Social Council’s financing for development follow-up forum closed its ministerial segment today with a pledge to take concrete, immediate steps to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and expedite implementation of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda.

The commanders of four United Nations peacekeeping missions briefed the Security Council this afternoon, emphasizing the need to “go beyond the traditional peacekeeping box” and overcome bureaucratic hurdles, as the Organization’s signature function adapted to ever-evolving challenges.

Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for Africa Day, observed on 25 May:

On 12 May, the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 2127 (2013) concerning the Central African Republic held informal consultations in connection with the progress update of the Panel of Experts and a briefing by the United Nations Mine Action Service in assisting the Central African Republic authorities in the management of weapons and ammunition.

The Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations today recommended 79 entities for special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council, while deferring action on the status of 38 others.

Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) force generation conference, in New York today:

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Elbio Rosselli (Uruguay):

On 19 May 2017, the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011) concerning Libya held informal consultations to consider the final report of the Panel of Experts, submitted pursuant to paragraph 13 of resolution 2278 (2016).

The Secretary-General strongly condemns the horrific terrorist attack in Manchester last night, and expresses his profound sympathy and solidarity with the people and Government of the United Kingdom.  He hopes that those responsible for this despicable attack will be swiftly found and brought to justice.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced today the appointment of David McLachlan-Karr of Australia as his new Deputy Special Representative in Guinea-Bissau.  Mr. McLachlan-Karr will also serve as United Nations Resident Coordinator and Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Guinea-Bissau.