On International Delegate’s Day we acknowledge the 850 delegates who participated in the San Francisco Conference seventy-five years ago, and in doing so laid the foundation for the United Nations. We recognize the important role of diplomacy in preventing war and conflict and paving the way for peaceful and prosperous societies through dialogue and collaboration, particularly during the most difficult of times.
I wish those who are suffering from COVID-19 a quick recovery and extend my sincere condolences to those who have lost loved ones.
In the General Assembly, diplomats are entrusted by the peoples of the world to work together to champion human progress through promoting peace and security, human rights and development.
Our experience has taught us that when we work together, we prevail. We must never relent in our efforts to bridge gaps and act for the common good.
The Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement on climate change mark a major triumph for diplomacy and multilateralism. However, the present crisis threatens the gains we have made over the years.
In this Decade of Action and Delivery to implement the SDGs we must demonstrate even greater resolve and galvanise multilateral action to implement the goals in order to ensure outcomes that will build resilience for the most vulnerable communities.
During this extraordinary difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial that we ensure the continuity of the essential work of the General Assembly.
I commend all delegates for adapting to innovative working methods at the United Nations and other fora during this trying time.
Together we must fight discrimination and stigma and halt the spread of fear and hate. It is only by striving together, that we will deliver a better, safer world for all.
As we commemorate the seventy-fifth anniversary of the United Nations, we must build trust with one another, deepen partnerships and show empathy. This is the only way to resolve the many challenges that confront us.
