– As delivered –

Remarks by H.E. Mr. Abdulla Shahid, President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly

18 September 2021

Your Excellency, Mr. Vice President,

Mr. Secretary-General,

Excellencies,

Ladies and gentlemen,

It is a pleasure to address you today at the inauguration of the artwork, “World in Progress II” with the celebrated Swiss French artist, Saype .

As a world leader in both innovation and the arts, I wish to thank Switzerland for this kind invitation and for making this event possible.

From Istanbul to Paris, I understand that each city that Saype chooses has a “meaning.”

What better home to welcome “World in Progress II” than here in the ‘Parliament of Humanity’.

The United Nations is not only the pinnacle of multilateral cooperation but is also known as a “mini-museum” of art and artistic treasures.

It is only fitting that a space for the entire global community to come together in mutual respect and dialogue would also celebrate the artistic contributions from across our world.

Ephemeral and sensational, accessible yet profound, Saype’s artwork speaks of the powerful role of arts as a platform to promote change, bridge cultural divides, or transform societies.

His artwork reflects the zeitgeist of the moment.

It represents a narrative that inspires change, evokes hope, and calls for collaborative action.

Whether it is about climate action or refugee crises, the artwork conveys universal messages of both challenges and opportunities, of limitless potential and possibilities.

The artwork refreshes the virtue of multilateralism.

I appreciate that Saype’s work is a nod to the Secretary-General’s report “Our Common Agenda”, which embraces solidarity, renews social contracts, addresses “infodemics,” promotes true economic growth, thinks long-term, and calls for a stronger, more networked, and inclusive multilateralism.

Just like the artwork, ‘Our Common Agenda’ reminds us of our obligations towards future generations.

As President of the UN General Assembly, I commit to working towards these obligations; I will work hard to bring together the best of humanity, to offer the best solutions, and to present a more hopeful, unifying message.

No doubt, today’s event and Saype’s impressive artwork contribute to this narrative, representing a United Nations that delivers for people, for planet, and for prosperity.

I thank you.