Multilateralism in the agenda of the 78th UN General Assembly

The start of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, presided over by Trinidad and Tobago, convenes a testing ground for multilateralism when the world's conflicts are becoming more acute.

At the establishment of the new mandate on Tuesday, United Nations (UN) Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed called for building trust, cohesion, and solidarity among member states.

Let us all commit to using this Assembly as a testing ground for multilateralism and ensure that we shape solutions that benefit people and communities worldwide,” she stressed.

Mohammed reminded that the General Assembly represents “our common humanity” and “our shared commitment” to peace, sustainable development, and human rights.

Dennis Francis, president of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, outlined four key priorities in his mandate: peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability.

In his first words in office, the Trinidad and Tobago representative warned of the complicated challenges the world is facing, such as climate change, conflict, and poverty.

“As the main policy-making body of the United Nations, the General Assembly has a special responsibility to ensure that our efforts are anchored in a robust multilateral system, faithful to the cherished values and principles enshrined in the UN Charter,” he added.