Addressing the urgent need for collective action to address pressing global issues, Mr. Yang, the President of the General Assembly at its 79th session, emphasized the critical state of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With only five years remaining until the globally agreed 2030 deadline, Mr. Yang noted that less than 17 per cent of the targets are on track. This lack of progress towards achieving the SDGs is a cause for concern as these goals are essential for creating a sustainable and equitable future for all.
In his remarks, Mr. Yang also highlighted the immediate threats posed by the climate crisis. The impacts of climate change are being felt worldwide, affecting ecosystems and livelihoods. The urgency of addressing the climate emergency cannot be overstated, and Mr. Yang called for a united front against this escalating crisis. It is imperative that countries come together to take bold and decisive actions to mitigate the effects of climate change and work towards a more sustainable future.
Moving on to ongoing conflicts around the world, Mr. Yang called for ceasefires in places like the Middle East, Ukraine, Haiti, and Sudan. He urged all parties involved in these conflicts to adhere to international humanitarian law and work towards peaceful resolutions. Specifically, Mr. Yang called for an end to the violence between Hamas and Israel, advocating for the unconditional release of hostages and a two-State solution to ensure lasting peace and dignity for both Palestinians and Israelis.
Mr. Yang also raised concerns about military spending and the rising nuclear threat. He warned against the diversion of resources into military stockpiles, which he described as fueling an unprecedented arms race reminiscent of the Cold War. The existential threat posed by nuclear weapons cannot be ignored, and Mr. Yang called for urgent measures to abolish these instruments of destruction. Dialogue and trust among nations are crucial in preventing conflicts and promoting peace, and Mr. Yang emphasized the importance of constant dialogue and trust-building efforts.
Gender equality and human rights were also key points in Mr. Yang’s address. He highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by women and girls worldwide who are denied basic rights and opportunities. Mr. Yang condemned forced labor and modern slavery, calling for a global commitment to combat these injustices. It is essential to address gender inequality and ensure that all individuals have equal access to rights and opportunities.
In addition, Mr. Yang pointed to the urgent need for reform in the international financial system. Many countries are grappling with crippling debt, and there is a widening digital divide that excludes entire populations from essential resources needed for success in the modern world. It is imperative for world leaders to come together and address these issues to shape a better future for all. Mr. Yang referenced the recent Summit of the Future and the adoption of the Pact for the Future, which aims to reinvigorate multilateral institutions to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
In conclusion, Mr. Yang’s address at the opening of the General Debate of the 79th session of the General Assembly highlighted the need for collective action to address pressing global issues. From the urgent need to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals to the importance of addressing the climate crisis, ongoing conflicts, gender equality, and human rights, Mr. Yang called on world leaders to come together and work towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all. It is crucial for countries to prioritize dialogue, trust-building, and cooperation to overcome the challenges facing the world today and create a better tomorrow.
