Remarks by the President of the General Assembly
Mr. Philemon Yang
“Interaction between the United Nations, national parliaments and Inter-Parliamentary Union” Item 126: Report of the Secretary-General (report A/79/837)
Friday, 25 July 2025, 10AM, General Assembly Hall
[As Delivered]
Your Excellencies,
Distinguished Delegates,
I welcome this opportunity to reflect on the Secretary-General’s latest report on the interaction between the United Nations, national parliaments, and the Inter-Parliamentary Union.
This report powerfully affirms the critical role that parliaments play in advancing the work of the United Nations across all three pillars: peace and security, human rights, and sustainable development.
Parliaments are not merely national actors.
They are indispensable partners in translating our global objectives into national legislation, budgetary decisions, and public accountability.
As highlighted in the report, parliamentary engagement strengthens the multilateral system by helping restore trust, promoting inclusiveness, and anchoring our global efforts in democratic legitimacy.
The Pact for the Future calls for a reinvigorated multilateralism.
Action 55 of the Pact urges deeper United Nations engagement with national parliaments.
This is not symbolic.
It is essential if we are to meet the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, respond to climate change, uphold human rights, and foster peace.
As President of the General Assembly, I have witnessed firsthand how parliaments around the world are stepping up:
- Aligning national laws with international commitments,
- Supporting sustainable finance,
- And ensuring Government accountability.
Earlier this year, my Office co-organised with the Inter-Parliamentary Union the 2025 Parliamentary Hearing here at United Nations Headquarters.
We welcomed over 300 participants, including Speakers and Members of Parliament from more than 60 countries.
The discussions were rich, forward-looking, and full of conviction.
I was particularly heartened by the overwhelming parliamentary support for the United Nations and for multilateral cooperation – including on sustainable development, conflict prevention, and institutional reform.
With only five years left to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals, we must do more together.
National parliaments are essential actors in this and other joint efforts.
I count on Member States to ensure their continued engagement at all levels, so that the promises we have made are honoured and implemented.
Thank you.
