The President of Seychelles, Wavel Ramkalawan, took the stage at the UNGA 78, addressing a global audience and outlining key priorities and takeaways for the international community. In his speech, he emphasised the pressing need for trust, solidarity, and international cooperation in tackling the world's most pressing challenges.
The President stressed the importance of rebuilding trust and rekindling global solidarity, which he described as fundamental to a functional multilateral order. He acknowledged that escalating conflicts, human-induced disasters, and a pervasive sense of disunity and distrust are testing these core principles. He also highlighted the urgent need to accelerate progress on the UN's 2030 Agenda and its sustainable development goals. He called for a renewed emphasis on implementing these goals at all levels, including establishing robust institutions and innovative financing mechanisms.
Seychelles endorsed the adoption of a multidimensional vulnerability index tailored to the unique conditions of Small Island Developing States (SIDS). This index is seen as a potential tool to measure and combat inequalities and strengthen climate action and poverty eradication efforts in these nations. He noted that significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, including OECD and G20 countries, must make substantial strides in combating climate change. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the President emphasised that recovery efforts must prioritise inclusivity and equality. He underscored the principle that no one should be left behind, urging a just recovery worldwide that reduces inequalities, promotes gender equality, and ensures access to good health and quality education for all.
The President stressed that effective governance is key to achieving global goals. He called for a transparent, accountable governance system underpinned by a steadfast commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, as crucial to restoring faith and facilitating active participation in sustainable development.
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