2025/01/22
LOC15:28
12:28 GMT
Davos, Switzerland, January 22 (KUNA) – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Wednesday expressed deep concern at the growing global challenges and lack of effective leadership, especially amid geopolitical divisions that are reshaping the Middle East region. expressed.
Speaking at the annual World Economic Forum in Davos, Guterres said the ceasefire in Gaza, efforts to provide humanitarian aid and the formation of a government in Lebanon after years of political stagnation offer signs of hope to the world. He said that
He added that the Sudan-Ukraine conflict continues to threaten stability, and stressed the United Nations’ efforts to promote solutions based on the principles of international law and national sovereignty of the United Nations Charter.
The Secretary-General noted that many developing countries, particularly in Africa, are facing serious economic difficulties, with soaring inflation and crippling debt accounting for 27 percent of government revenues.
He added that this is considered unsustainable and many governance systems are outdated and ill-equipped to deal with these modern challenges.
He called for urgent reforms to the international financial system and world institutions, including the United Nations Security Council, noting that meaningful change requires not only structural but also attitudinal changes.
Secretary-General Guterres said climate change is one of the most pressing existential threats, with rising temperatures due to dependence on fossil fuels pushing the planet beyond a critical threshold, with 2024 already set to be the hottest year on record. I warned you that it was happening.
“Rising sea levels are putting 13 of the world’s largest ports at risk of being submerged,” he warned, calling on governments to accelerate the global transition to sustainable energy sources.
He called on countries to implement climate action plans ahead of COP30 in Brazil, and stressed the need to step up support to help developing countries adapt to the impacts of climate change.
Mr. Guterres pointed to the potential of innovation and technology to improve lives, from strengthening health care to increasing agricultural productivity.
He also warned of the risks posed by unregulated artificial intelligence, which could exacerbate inequality, disrupt economies and undermine trust in institutions.
He emphasized the importance of including developing countries in discussions on technology governance to ensure fair access and benefits.
“The recently adopted Global Digital Compact provides a framework to ensure that digital technologies serve humanity and help bridge the digital divide,” he added.
Secretary-General Guterres reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to leading global efforts and building a more sustainable, inclusive and just world. (End) imk.ao
