Guterres describes UN as peace force, sustainable development driver

NEW YORK, Sept 23 (KUNA) -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres affirmed Tuesday that the UN system serves as a moral compass, a force for peace, a guardian of international law, and a driver of sustainable development.
He made the remarks during the opening of the high-level general debate of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, where world leaders outline their priorities and stances on pressing global issues.
Guterres said that 80 years ago, world leaders chose cooperation over chaos, law over lawlessness, and peace over conflict, leading to the birth of the United Nations.
He noted that the world is becoming increasingly multipolar, which could be positive and reflective of greater global diversity, but warned that multipolarity without effective multilateral institutions leads to disorder.
He emphasized the critical importance of international cooperation, warning that today's global choices are not ideological debates, but matters of life or death for millions around the world.
The Secretary-General urged UN member states to make five pivotal choices, beginning with the "choice of peace grounded in international law," stressing that peace is the UN's foremost obligation and impunity the root of chaos.
He cited the situation in Gaza, describing it as facing yet another brutal year, caused by decisions that defy basic principles of humanity, with destruction surpassing any conflict during his term as Secretary-General.
Guterres underscored the need to enforce the legally binding provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice regarding the application of the Genocide Convention in the Gaza Strip.
He also stressed the need to persist in efforts toward a two-state solution, calling it the only viable path to lasting peace in the Middle East.
The Secretary-General proceeded to outline the remaining four choices: upholding human dignity and rights, advancing climate justice, harnessing technology for humanity, and strengthening the United Nations for the 21st century.
He referenced the "Pact for the Future," crafted by member states to reflect their commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive and effective United Nations.
Guterres explained this vision underpins his "UN-80" initiative, which includes proposals to revise next year's budget, cut costs, improve performance, and implement practical reforms for greater impact and efficiency. (end) ast.aai