This year’s general debate began with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s address to member states at the United Nations General Assembly.
In the six-day general debate, 190 member states gathered on the Green Marble Platform to discuss the challenges facing the international community and call for global solidarity to overcome the crisis.
Apart from him, three members of observer status also got the opportunity to speak.
Philemon Young, President of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly, concluded the high-level segment by emphasizing the importance of addressing violent conflict and building peace.
The head of the General Assembly said that violent conflicts continued in Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan and Ukraine, and were not limited there.
“In the past few days, the world has witnessed a dramatic escalation of violence between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. “The acceleration of this conflict risks igniting war in the Middle East region.”
“This has to stop, and it has to stop now. “The world must prevent the outbreak of full-scale war in a fragile region at all costs.” He appealed to Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah to agree to an immediate ceasefire.
“And all remaining hostages must be released immediately, unharmed.”
Move forward in unison
Philemon Young said the international community can tackle complex challenges only by working together. “Only through dialogue, listening and collective action can we find solutions that benefit us.”
During the 79th session, the topics of general debate in the UN General Assembly focused on peace, diversity, sustainable development, ensuring human dignity.
He said it is not just a guideline but a call to action.
“This theme reminds us that our strength lies in our diversity and our ability to unite all stakeholders around our common goals.”
“Let us all move forward in unity and with a sense of shared responsibility. Let us continue our work with the clear objective of building a peaceful, just and dignified future for all.”