Addressing the last key session of the session on Tuesday, he said hope and motivation had increased that working together, much could be achieved.
The UN Secretary-General also praised the leadership of General Assembly President Dennis Francis.
He said at the 78th session, the world continues to struggle with poverty, inequality, injustice and growing divisions, violence and violent conflict. It was a year that again proved to be the warmest on record.
“But if we work together, it’s not like the challenges facing humanity can’t be overcome.”
The theme of the session was: Peace, Prosperity, Progress and Sustainability.”
Antonio Guterres said that Denis Francis has also made an important contribution to the preparation of the ‘Future Summit’ to be held this month. Additionally, she has worked tirelessly to support gender equality and increase youth participation.
According to the UN chief, the UN and the multilateral system can only be as effective as the commitment member states show to the system.
An important term
In his closing remarks, Denis Francis, Diplomat of Trinidad and Tobago and President of the United Nations General Assembly, noted his presidency and important achievements of the session.
He said that during this session, the head of the General Assembly convened a high-level meeting on global pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, an important meeting focused on accelerating efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
In addition, the first ever Sustainability Week was held at the UN General Assembly with a week of events on topics such as tourism, infrastructure, transport, energy and debt.
The head of the General Assembly visited 31 countries and spoke to stakeholders from diverse backgrounds: from government representatives to students, women, civil society and displaced families.
“My visits to Haiti, South Sudan and Ukraine were particularly emotional, as these countries struggle with violent conflict, insecurity and aggression.” UN efforts here are literally saving lives.
He said the challenges facing the global community are complex, but not beyond our power to overcome. In this sequence, he highlighted the importance of the United Nations for unity and world welfare.
formal closing
During this event at the General Assembly, President-elect Philemon Young for the 79th session was sworn in as President of the General Assembly.
He pledged that he would perform his duties in the best interest of the United Nations in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and the Code of Ethics.
Subsequently, Dennis Francis formally declared the 78th session closed and the symbolic gavel was handed over to Philemon Young.
The 79th session of the UN General Assembly will begin at 3pm New York time on Tuesday. This year, the high-level general debate begins on September 24. Important meetings will also be held on issues such as sea level rise, abolition of nuclear weapons and antimicrobial resistance.