Speaking ahead of the UN General Assembly’s high-level week in New York, Guterres said countries had entered “an era of deep uncertainty” requiring greater international cooperation. “International cooperation is more necessary than ever,” Guterres said.
Guterres called on countries to uphold the UN Charter, defend international law, protect human rights, invest in sustainable development and pursue peace.
Although international institutions require reform, Guterres said structural changes should not weaken the founding principles of the UN. “Updating our structures can never mean abandoning our principles. It must mean applying those principles with even greater determination,” Guterres said.
Guterres called for diplomatic efforts to end conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, with the General Assembly expected to debate both crises during the high-level week. “At this crucial moment in the Middle East, de-escalation must be priority one, priority two and priority three,” Guterres said.
Parties to conflicts in the Middle East should protect civilians and respect navigational rights in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb Strait.
Guterres also reiterated support for a two-state solution and said Israel’s annexation of the West Bank “must stop”.
On Ukraine, Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire as the first step towards “a just, lasting and comprehensive peace”.
AI occupied a central part of Guterres remarks. Guterres acknowledged the potential of AI to improve healthcare, education and climate action but warned that development was advancing faster than understanding of the risks. “The world cannot afford a race to the bottom on AI safety,” Guterres said.
Voluntary pauses involving only a few countries would not prevent unsafe development because competing countries and companies could continue advancing more powerful systems. “Global cooperation is indispensable,” Guterres said.
The UN-founded Independent International Scientific Panel on AI is expected to provide evidence about the opportunities and risks presented by the technology.
Guterres called for international safeguards making AI “safe, transparent and accountable, with human dignity at the centre”.
World leaders will gather in New York from September 22 for discussions on conflicts, climate change, inequality, sustainable development and emerging technologies.
Guterres said the high-level week should provide an opportunity for governments to choose “de-escalation, diplomacy and dialogue” over conflict and fragmentation.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
