UNGA Disarmament Index 2025: A-G

This is an index of all references made to issues of disarmament, militarism, and war made during the 80th General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly, held from 23-29 September 2025. We also published a report and analysis from the debate.

A-G | H-R | S-Z

UN Secretary-General
Mr. António Guterres
23 September 2025

Armed conflict: “First, we must choose peace rooted in international law. Peace is our first obligation. Yet today, wars rage with a barbarity we vowed never to allow. Too often, the Charter is brandished when convenient, and trampled when not. But the Charter is not optional. It is our foundation. And when the foundation cracks, everything built upon it fractures. Around the world, we see countries acting as if the rules don’t apply to them. We see humans treated as less than human. And we must call it out. Impunity is the mother of chaos – and it has spawned some of the most atrocious conflicts of our times. In Sudan, civilians are being slaughtered, starved, and silenced. Women and girls face unspeakable violence.”

Armed conflict, ceasefire: “In Gaza, the horrors are approaching a third monstrous year. They are the result of decisions that defy basic humanity. The scale of death and destruction are beyond any other conflict in my years as Secretary-General. The International Court of Justice has issued legally binding provisional measures in the case named: “Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip”. Since then, a famine has been declared, and the killing has intensified. The measures stipulated by the ICJ must be implemented -- fully and immediately. Nothing can justify the horrific Hamas terror attacks of October 7 and the taking of hostages, both of which I have repeatedly condemned. And nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people and the systematic destruction of Gaza. We know what is needed: Permanent ceasefire now. All the hostages released now. Full humanitarian access now. And we must not relent in the only viable answer to sustainable Middle East peace: a two-State solution. We must urgently reverse dangerous trends on the ground. Relentless settler expansion and violence, and the looming threat of annexation must stop.”

Armed conflict, ceasefire, nuclear weapons: “Everywhere – from Haiti to Yemen to Myanmar to the Sahel and beyond – we must choose peace anchored in international law. The past year has brought glimmers of hope, including: the ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand, and the agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, brokered by the United States. But far too many crises continue unchecked. Impunity prevails. Lawlessness is a contagion. It invites mayhem, accelerates terror, and risks a nuclear free-for-all. When accountability shrinks, graveyards grow. When UN staff and facilities are attacked – violating legal obligations -- so, too, is the core of our ability to serve and deliver. The Security Council must live up to its responsibilities. It must be more representative, more transparent, and more effective. And beyond crisis response, we must tackle the injustices that ignite conflict – exclusion, inequality, corruption, impunity.”

Armed conflict, militarism: “Our world is becoming increasingly multipolar. This can be positive – reflecting a more diverse, dynamic global landscape. But multipolarity without effective multilateral institutions courts chaos – as Europe learned the hard way resulting in World War I. Let’s be clear: International cooperation is not naiveté. It is hard-headed pragmatism. In a world where threats leap borders, isolation is an illusion. No country can stop a pandemic alone. No army can halt rising temperatures. No algorithm can rebuild trust once it is broken. These are global stress tests – of our systems, our solidarity and our resolve.”

AI, autonomous weapons: “Fourth, we must choose to put technology at the service of humanity. Artificial Intelligence is rewriting human existence in real time. Transforming how we learn, work, communicate – and what we can trust. The question is not how to stop it, but how to steer it for the greater good. Technology must be our servant – not our master. It must promote human rights, human dignity, and human agency. Yet today, AI’s advancement is outpacing regulation and responsibility – concentrated in a few hands. And the risks are expanding to new frontiers – from biotech to autonomous weapons. We are witnessing the rise of tools for mass surveillance, mass social control, mass disruption, and even mass destruction. Tools that can drain energy, strain ecosystems, and intensify the race for critical minerals – potentially stoking instability and conflict. Yet, these technologies remain largely ungoverned. We need universal guardrails and common standards – across platforms. No company should be above the law. No machine should decide who lives or dies. No system should be deployed without transparency, safety, and accountability.”

“Last month, this Assembly took a historic step – establishing an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI, and an annual Global Dialogue on AI Governance. Two new pillars of a shared architecture: Connecting science with policy to bring clarity and foresight; Enabling innovation to flourish while advancing our values and rights; And ensuring governments, companies and civil society can help shape common norms. We must build on these mechanisms – and close the capacity gap. All countries must be able to design and develop AI – not just consume it. I have proposed voluntary financing options to build AI computing power, data, and skills in developing nations. No country should be locked out of the digital future – or locked into systems it cannot shape or trust. Governments must lead with vision. Companies must act with responsibility. And we – the international community – must ensure that technology lifts up humanity. So let us choose: Cooperation over fragmentation; Ethics over expediency; And transparency over opacity; Technology will not wait for us. But we can still choose what it serves. Let us choose wisely.”

Militarism: “There is no military solution. We know what must be done. I urge all parties, including those in this Hall: End the external support that is fueling this bloodshed. Push to protect civilians. The Sudanese people deserve peace, dignity, and hope. In Ukraine, relentless violence continues to kill civilians, destroy civilian infrastructure, and threaten global peace and security. I commend recent diplomatic efforts by the United States and others. We must work for a full ceasefire and a just, lasting peace in accordance with the Charter, UN resolutions and international law.”

“The principles of the United Nations that you have established are under siege. Listen. The pillars of peace and progress are buckling under the weight of impunity, inequality, and indifference. Sovereign nations, invaded. Hunger, weaponized. Truth, silenced. Rising smoke from bombed-out cities. Rising anger in fractured societies. Rising seas swallowing coastlines. Each one a warning. Each one a question. What kind of world will we choose? A world of raw power -- or a world of laws? A world that is a scramble for self-interest – or a world where nations come together? A world where might makes right – or a world of rights for all?”

Military spending: “But those who depend on the United Nations must not be made to bear the cost. Especially now – when for every dollar invested to support our core work to build peace, the world spends 750 dollars on weapons of war. This is not only unsustainable – it is indefensible.”

Small arms and light weapons: “The surest way to silence the guns is to raise the volume for justice.”

President of the General Assembly (opening remarks)
Ms. Annalena Baerbock, President of the General Assembly
23 September 2025

Armed conflict, drones, small arms and light weapons: “Just look at the state of our world, as the Secretary General described. Thousands of orphans in Gaza are wandering around the rubble eating sand, drinking contaminated water. Ninety-year-old women in Ukraine are hiding from drones, trapped in their homes instead of living their final years in peace. Children in Haiti, too afraid to walk to school, afraid they might be gunned down by gangs, like their friends. And for every conflict and tragedy that seizes the headlines, there are so many more that are forgotten.”

Armed conflict: “People out there in the world, watching us. Clearly, we have to do better. But what we should not allow, is to let cynics weaponize these failures. To argue that our institution is a waste of money. Outdated. Irrelevant. When the principles of the Charter are ignored, is it the UN that has failed? When tanks rolled into Ukraine, was it because Article 2 of the Charter is not clear enough about sovereignty and territorial integrity? When civilians, children are killed in Gaza, is it humanitarian law at fault for failing to protect them? It is not the Charter which fails. It’s not the UN as an institution which fails. The Charter, our Charter, is only as strong as Member States’ willingness to uphold it. And their willingness to hold to account those who violate it.”

Artificial intelligence: “How comfortable would you be with your children using the internet while AI is uncontrolled and unchecked. As the lines between what is real and fake start to blur. In this globalised, digitalised world, we work together—or we suffer alone.”

President of General Assembly (closing remarks)
Ms. Annalena Baerbock, President of the General Assembly
29 September 2025

War: “Across the week, certain themes resonated above all others. Chief among them: peace and security. Gaza. Ukraine. Sudan. The message was clear: Member States must do more to stem the tide of war and violence. To protect and feed starving civilians in Gaza. To return peace to Ukraine. To protect women and girls in Sudan. This Organization and its Charter are only as strong as our collective will to uphold the principles of the Charter and international law.”

Armed conflict, ceasefire: “And when we do, progress follows. Monday’s High-Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine demonstrated clearly that what happens in this Hall matters. The recognition of the State of Palestine by eleven additional Member States, coupled with the New York Declaration, show diplomatic movement on an issue long considered immovable. But while we are gaining traction politically, on the ground the situation remains catastrophic and unacceptable. The real test now is whether the momentum generated here can be translated into tangible, short-term measures in Gaza: - an immediate ceasefire, - a surge in humanitarian aid for civilians - and the immediate release of the remaining hostages. And afterwards into a peaceful, long-term perspective: the realization of the Two-State-Solution. The only way to achieve lasting peace, security and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians.”

Artificial intelligence: “The discussions on A.I., in particular, lend only further credence to the argument that we are better together. Few of us would be comfortable leaving the benefits, or risks, of this immense resource in the hands of a few. The opportunities are vast: - from farmers accessing plans for better seed varieties,- to city planning, - to disaster risk management. AI is a tool that must be harnessed for all of humankind, equally and in a controlled manner. This last point bears repeating, as the risks of A.I. are becoming only more prevalent and age-old biases are being perpetuated by algorithms, as you can see, for example, when 99 percent of sexual related deep fakes are targeting women and girls.”

Albania
Mr. Bajram Begaj, President
24 September 2025

Artificial intelligence: “Albania believes that global challenges — from conflicts and terrorism to climate change, artificial intelligence, and economic insecurity — are not only complex but also deeply interconnected. Humanity therefore needs more multilateral cooperation.”

Militarism: “As a member of the United Nations, a member of NATO, and a proud European nation, the Republic of Albania is ready to contribute to the strengthening of international peace and security. We support a global order in which conflicts are resolved sustainably, societies are strengthened by solidarity, and peace is built and maintained on the foundations of trust, cooperation, and progress. Albania remains committed to the UN Charter and will continue to contribute to peacekeeping missions, humanitarian efforts, and the building of a world in which disagreements are resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.”

War: “For nearly four years, our organization’s credibility has been tested by Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Albania has stood in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity and has consistently condemned Russia’s violations of the UN Charter and international law. We condemn Russia’s continued attacks against Ukraine and the recent provocations against our NATO allies. At the same time, we value the diplomatic efforts, under the leadership of President Trump, for a just and lasting peace, in full respect of Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.”

Ceasefire, armed conflict: “Albania is equally committed to peace, security, and stability in the Middle East. The war in Gaza must end, all hostages must be released, and the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza must be addressed urgently. We express our support for the efforts of the United States, Egypt, and Qatar for a ceasefire agreement that will lead to a permanent end of hostilities and to a sustainable peace between Israel and Palestine, one that provides a better future, in security and prosperity, for Palestinians, Israelis, and all the peoples of the region.”

Artificial intelligence: “In recent years, we have witnessed the rapid spread of digital technologies. Technological progress is valuable only when it advances in parallel with human progress. We must remain faithful to our values, placing technology at the service of humanity. No matter how advanced, the problems of our time cannot be solved by artificial intelligence, but by human intelligence and compassion. The digital age must be guided by international cooperation, ethical standards, and respect for human rights.”

Algeria
Mr. Ahmed Attaf, Minister of State
29 September 2025

Armed conflict: “This is an international reality where conflicts have accumulated while settlements are absent. A reality where technological revolutions have proliferated while the development gap has expanded between the North and the South.”

War: “The question of Palestine faces its greatest threat ever today, which is the threat of erasure through annexation and displacement, as well as through suffocating the legitimate institutions that represent the Palestinian question, and that may also eliminate the two state solution that has been the consensus on the issue. The threat is not limited to Palestine after the Israeli occupation is now loud and proud in its intention to revive what it calls the “greater Israel,” a situation that makes it incumbent on the international community as a hold to uphold the responsibilities.”

Armed conflict: “We appreciate the increasing recognition of the state of Palestine, and we also reiterate the call launched by our President to empower the state of Palestine with the full fledged membership in the United Nations. The entire world must realize that the establishment of the state of Palestine is not a choice, but a necessity, and it's not a favor, but an integral right of the Palestinian people. It's not a hope, but a necessary condition that is indispensable and it cannot be evaded in order to restore security and stability in the Middle East as a whole. Accordingly, Algeria follows with great concern the ongoing negotiations under the auspices of the United States of America in order to end the tragedy in Gaza. Algeria encourages these efforts and hopes, they will lead to an end to the catastrophe in Gaza and as a step on the road to a final settlement to the Israeli- Palestinian conflict.”

Armed conflict: “The passage of time, no matter how long, cannot defeat the will of a people or the essence of their legitimate causes. 62 years have passed since the General Assembly has added the Western Sahara to the list of territories whose people are claiming an end to colonization.  And 50 years since the Security Council has adopted the first resolution on the Western Sahara and 34 years since the deployment of the UN mission for the referendum in the Western Sahara. Time may prolong the accomplishment of justice, but it does not cancel justice or the legitimacy of a cause. This August forum bears witness to this through supporting the people of the Western Sahara. The Western Sahara remains an issue of the colonization. The Sahrawi people remain deserving and entitled to their inalienable right of self determination. The imposed reality in the Sahrawis remains in occupation as per international law and the firm doctrine of the United Nations. The solution to this issue, in our opinion, must be based on five elements. One, that the solution takes place under the permanent auspices of the United Nations. Second, that the solution be based on direct negotiations between the parties. Third, that this solution be a result of the formulation of the parties and not imposed by any single party or any other party. Fourth, that this solution be aligned with UN principles on deconization, and on achieving justice for people under colonization. And fifth, and finally, that the solution leads to empowering the Sahrawi people of exercising their right to self- determination as per UN resolutions.”

Armed conflict: “The Libyan crisis deepens and complicates further day by day, while the international community loses interest in Libya and while practical prospects for a peaceful settlement are absent. 14 years after the start of the crisis, this sisterly nation remains trapped in divisions that are fueled and invested by foreign interventions, as parts that do not desire the best for Libya or desire Libya's stability or security. If the matter was left to the Libyans alone, they would have reached an end to their divisions by now and would have charted a path forward that end to the crisis a long time ago. It is high time to end the foreign interventions in Libya in order for the resilient Libyan people to heal and reunite.”

Armed conflict: “As for the Sahel region, Algeria reiterates its full commitment to the security and stability of our neighbors and to building the best and strongest relations and most mutually beneficial with our sisters and neighbors in the region. I note here that for the second year on a roll, a member of the coup regime from Mali, through this rostrum, tried to attack Algeria. It is the height of rudeness and vulgarity by which this failed poet has spoken.”

Armed conflict: “The African reality makes it urgent to address the conflicts and crises that have not spared any part of the continent. Our continent is more vulnerable to the scourge of terrorism today and the African reality makes it urgent to seize the opportunity to achieve integration and cooperation.”

Andorra
Mr. Xavier Espot Zamora, Head of Government
26 September 2025

Armed conflicts: “We face more challenges than ever: climate change, armed conflicts, and forced migrations. Where we once saw horizons, walls now rise. For this reason, now is the time to bring to the international level the spirit that guides a country like ours, with more than seven centuries of peace. We must uphold the essence of multilateralism - the raison d'etre of this United Nations organization, an organization of peoples and for peoples.”

War: “We cannot speak of development or human rights without also speaking of peace and security. The world is facing an alarming multiplication of armed conflicts of a scale and violence unprecedented in the past 80 years. The war in Ukraine is approaching its fourth year, with devastating consequences for the civilian population and international stability. Andorra reiterates its condemnation of all violations of international law and once again expresses its firm support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.”

War: “Looking toward the Middle East, the situation in Gaza strikes us with severity. The number of civilian casualties, the destruction of essential infrastructure, and the worsening humanitarian crisis demand an urgent response from the international community. We wish to express our deep concern and strongly call for respect for international humanitarian law by all parties. For this reason: - We condemn without distinction all attacks against the civilian population, including all acts of terrorism and indiscriminate assaults. - We strongly and specifically condemn the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, and call for the release of the hostages. - We believe that a lasting peace process for the conflict between Israel and Palestine, and in the Middle East region, can only be achieved through the two-state solution.”

“It is for this reason, and following these premises, that last Monday we decided to recognize the State of Palestine. This much-needed gesture will take full diplomatic effect once a series of conditions are met, such as the release of hostages, the disarmament of Hamas, and the establishment of a Palestinian government that excludes Hamas.

“Andorra reaffirms, on the other hand, its support to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). This agency, through its education, health, and humanitarian assistance services, is an essential pillar for the protection of millions of Palestinian refugees. In the absence of a political solution, it represents the only institutional support that ensures minimal stability and dignity in the region.

“As a State committed to multilateralism, Andorra defends that only dialogue, diplomacy, and the pursuit of shared solutions can lead us toward a just and lasting peace.”

War, armed conflict: “The founder of Save the Children,Eglantyne Jebb, once said that "all wars, just or unjust, disastrous or victorious, are wars against children." That was more than a hundred years ago, and sadly, we have still not been able to prevent armed conflicts from leaving indelible scars on girls and boys. This year marks the 20th anniversary of Security Council Resolution 1612, which established specific mechanisms to protect children affected by armed conflict. But as mentioned, the situation is deeply concerning: 2024 has seen the highest number of grave violations since the adoption of this resolution in 2005, with a 25% increase. More than 3,000 cases of abduction, forced recruitment, or sexual violence. These are figures we cannot accept as normal. Today, 473 million children live in areas affected by armed conflict.”

“Junior Nzita Nsuami. Not the name of a football prodigy, nor a movie star; you won't find him on Wikipedia, and he barely appears in internet searches. Junior Nzita Nsuami had his childhood stolen in 1996 when soldiers from the Alliance des Forces Democratiques pour la Liberation du Congo abducted him and his friends. At the age of 12, he became a child soldier. I had the opportunity to learn about his experience during the launch of the "Prove it matters" campaign in Geneva, which our country sponsors jointly with Malta to guarantee children's rights. A harrowing experience that must prompt us to act. How is it possible that in a world of such extraordinary progress, there is still a generation of children born and raised marked by war? Every child has the right to aspire to a full life, to build their memory with good moments and enriching experiences, because in this world, which progresses and advances so much, the only difference between them and us, is the destiny which determines where we are born and live.

“I would like to take this opportunity to commend the outstanding work of the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, with whom we had the privilege of cooperating in support of this cause. I also wish to thank the many states, represented at the highest level this Wednesday at the side event of this Conference, for demonstrating that the protection of children in armed conflict concerns us all.”

Angola
Mr. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President
23 September 2025

War, militarism, armed conflict: “The challenges of today place us before a choice: to do everything to preserve peace, or to face war with all its consequences, thus compromising the future of humanity.

“Those world powers that in the past played a crucial role in liberating Europe and the Europeans from the grip of Nazism and Fascism, and in liberating Africa and Africans from South Africa’s apartheid regime, cannot now behave differently — by attacking other countries, invading and annexing foreign territories, or even financing and organizing subversion that can lead to the overthrow of legitimate governments, as we currently witness on our own continent.

“With such a dangerous precedent, no regional, continental, or global institution will henceforth have the moral authority to call to order any State that violates the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter and in international law.

“We Africans, from countries colonized for centuries, understand better than anyone the importance of peace, as we face daily struggles to provide food, drinking water, health, education, and other essential goods — giving us a heightened sensitivity to the harmful impact of insecurity and instability on the realization of our development objectives and projects.

“This reality is further aggravated by the multiple conflicts and wars afflicting countries and regions of the world from which we had expected cooperation and fruitful exchange to help us overcome our difficulties and contribute, with our immense resources and capacities, to global prosperity.

“It is on this basis that the Republic of Angola has sought to make an honest and genuine contribution to resolving the conflict in the Sahel region, in Sudan, and in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. With respect to the latter, our efforts created a negotiating framework with peace solutions that unfortunately did not materialize in December 2024 as expected, but which remains a valid platform for other ongoing efforts aimed at putting a definitive end to that conflict.

“This conflict and so many others we recall are, to a large extent, the consequence of the passivity of United Nations Member States, which have often proven inoperative in the face of invasions of third-party territories and interference in the internal order of sovereign countries. These, in recent years, have not been met with firm, inflexible, and assertive reactions, and have thus become faits accomplis at the epicenter of the major tensions that characterize today’s world.

The consequences are before our very eyes, in the Middle East, where the systematic non-compliance with relevant Security Council resolutions on the creation of the State of Palestine keeps alive a conflict that worsens daily and seems far from resolution, given Israel’s disproportionate and violent retaliatory actions. While Israel has the right to exist as a State and to demand the release of those still held hostage from the tragic events of October 7, it cannot be allowed to pursue in Palestine — and particularly in Gaza — a policy of extermination of a people.

“The Palestinian people cannot be equated with Hamas, for there are no “terrorist peoples,” much less “terrorist children.” They have exactly the same right to an independent and sovereign State, where they can assert their culture, safeguard their future, and open predictable and secure prospects for their youth.

“Concerns over this conflict are compounded by the silence, hesitations, and timid reactions of the international community, which appear to legitimize the expansion of war to neighboring countries, inexorably eroding the authority of the United Nations.

“Nothing is worse than the exclusion of the Palestinian delegation from this forum, where it had the right to make its voice heard as a Member State under the terms of the Headquarters Agreement. The failure to guarantee the presence of the President of the Palestinian Authority at this General Assembly sends a highly negative signal, as it encourages the continuation of the genocide to which we all bear witness helplessly and with impunity, delays resolution of the problem, and complicates ongoing efforts to end this intricate conflict. We vehemently condemn this unilateral position, contrary to the principles governing the United Nations….”

Militarism, armed conflict: “The authority of this Organization, whose foundations lie in the United Nations Charter and international law, must urgently be restored, without narratives that highlight a logic of double standards, so that just solutions can be sought for the war in Ukraine or reinforced through the perspectives since the Alaska meeting.

“Ukraine, being a European country, after President Trump pragmatically met with President Putin — without prejudice to the need for direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine — it would have been expected that European leaders, in the interest of peace and security in Europe, would have also sought dialogue not only with President Zelensky, but also with President Putin.

“We cannot afford to squander this opportunity; otherwise, we risk witnessing an escalation of unpredictable proportions and consequences — not only in Europe, where living forces must abandon the dangerous calculations rooted in the notion of military victory through weakening the adversary’s capabilities.”

Antigua and Barbuda
Mr. Gaston Alphonso Browne, Prime Minister
26 September 2025

Armed conflict: “In the Middle East, we insist that Israeli hostages be released by Hamas – civilians must not be made pawns in any conflict. At the same time, we condemn the forced removal of people in Gaza from their homeland and the genocide that has occurred there. Humanitarian access must be guaranteed, and the protection of civilians made non-Negotiable. Antigua and Barbuda maintains its position in favour of a two-state solution - Israel and Palestine, living side by side in security and dignity, consistent with United Nations resolutions. We regret that the Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization was denied a visa to attend this Assembly in person. While we welcome the Assembly’s decision to allow him to address this session by video; we remind everyone that the United Nations is, above all, a chamber for voices to be heard, not to be muzzled, especially during times of war and conflict. Shutting out voices does not shut down underlying issues.”

Armed conflict: “Similarly, in Europe, the war in Ukraine must end in peace and with justice, not in the battle fatigue of the besieged. We urge a return to diplomacy anchored in the Charter and call on all states to refrain from actions that prolong conflict, or profit from it. Peace with law is the only peace that lasts.”

Arms: “We support a single, Haitian-led plan, executed under a single Security Council mandate and financed through a single, transparent Haiti Fund, aligning the United Nations, the Organization of American States and the Caribbean Community, behind one budgeted programme with public accountability. Disbursements should follow results such as: roads retaken from gang control, extortion stopped, arms and illicit finance interdicted, civilians protected, and essential services restored. Haiti needs one mandate, one Haitian-led plan, one fund — accountable and transparent. We urge every member of the Security Council to support the proposed Resolution on increased security assistance for Haiti that is now before it.”

Militarism: “Madam President, we also address the conduct of counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean Sea. Without judging facts not before us, including reports of lethal incidents off the coast of Venezuela, we restate a simple principle: the fight against drug trafficking must rest on cooperation and law. Interdictions should proceed under clear legal authority and rules of engagement that minimise risk to life, respect for sovereignty and the law of the sea, and prompt information-sharing and review. Whereas, Antigua and Barbuda stands ready to work with all partners against traffickers, we are concerned with the build up of military assets, including a nuclear submarine, indicating the possibility of military conflict. We remind everyone that our hemisphere should be respected as a zone of peace, not a theatre of military conflict.”

Argentina
Mr. Javier Gerardo Milei, President
24 September 2025

Armed conflict: “Finally, we reiterate our demand for immediate release of hostages who remain captive in Gaza.”

Armenia
Mr. Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister
27 September 2025

Armed conflict: “The main substance of speeches of all leaders of the Republic of Armenia from this rostrum has been dedicated to the conflict between the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan. Such were also my speeches from 2018 to 2023. Last year, speaking at the 79th session of the General Assembly, I tried for the first time to speak not about the conflict between the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan, but about peace. My speech was very cautious, very uncertain, although at that moment already, more than 12 kilometers of the Armenia Azerbaijan interstate border had been demarcated for the first time, and the regulations on the joint activities of the demarcation commissions of the two countries had been signed by the two deputy prime ministers.”

Armed conflict: “In March of this year, Armenia and Azerbaijan were able to agree up on a draft agreement on establishing peace and interstate relations and to conclude the negotiations on the draft with such a positive outcome.”

Ceasefire: “The aforementioned agreement on the establishment of peace and interstate relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan was initialed on August 8 of this year in the US capital, Washington DC, at the White House, by the Foreign Ministers of the two countries, in the presence of the US President, the President of Azerbaijan, and myself…All this means, and I am happy to report to the entire international community, that peace has been established between the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan…Peace, thus, is established. But peace is not a vacation; it is work, everyday work.”

Australia
Mr. Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister
24 September 2025

Militarism, war: “Eighty years ago, the people of our nations came together and put their trust in each other's humanity. An act of faith all the more extraordinary when we recall the devastation that still gripped their world. Yet out of the grief and ruin of war, that generation found the courage, the wisdom and the compassion to work together for a better peace. To build a world governed by rights and rules, not fear or force…. And where the shared mission and purpose of the United Nations is not merely to contain the threat of war, it is to create the conditions for peace. To provide a framework for settling our disputes. To foster the dialogue that enables us to manage our differences, and deepen our understanding. And to nourish the opportunity, build the prosperity and deliver the economic justice on which true and enduring security always depends.”

Armed conflict: “And if ever we had the luxury of imagining that breaches of international law were not our concern, or that conflict and turmoil in another part of the world could not affect us, those days are long gone.”

Explosive weapons: “Just last month, Australian security agencies confirmed that the Iranian regime orchestrated the firebombing of a synagogue in Melbourne and a Jewish restaurant in Sydney. Criminal acts of cowardice, aimed at spreading fear. We expelled the Iranian Ambassador from Australia. The first time since the Second World War our country has taken such a step. And here at the United Nations we repeat to the world, there is no place for antisemitism.”

Armed conflict: “As a people who believe that kindness is an act of courage, we want to see aid workers delivering food, water and medicine to conflict zones, protected. This week, Australia and our partners launched the Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian personnel. I thank the more than 100 nations that have already endorsed the declaration.”

Armed conflict: “And as a nation that knows security depends on sovereignty, Australia stands with the courageous people of Ukraine in their struggle against Russia's illegal and immoral invasion. We share the resolve of every member of the 'Coalition of the Willing' to secure peace on Ukraine's terms.”

War: “If we resign ourselves to the idea that war is inevitable, or relegate ourselves to the status of disinterested bystanders, if our only response to every crisis is to insist that there is nothing we can do, then we risk being trusted with nothing. We risk a world where dialogue and diplomacy are viewed as a dead end, rather than the vital road to understanding. Where co-operation to meet new challenges facing humanity, yields to old differences of race or faith or ethnicity. And where people beset by conflict, poverty or inequality come to look on this Assembly as little more than a final resting place for good intentions.”

Nuclear weapons: “By guarding against the spread of nuclear weapons - and working for a world free of nuclear weapons.”

Armed conflict, ceasefire: “For decades, leaders have come to this podium in search of new words and new ways to call the world to action on a two state solution. Today, I look to words that Australia helped write, 80 years ago. Australia is calling for a ceasefire. For the immediate release of the hostages. For aid to flow to those in desperate need. And for the terrorists of Hamas to have no role in Gaza's future. And - this week - Australia recognised the State of Palestine.”

Austria
Ms. Beate Meinl-Reisinger, Federal Minister for European and International Affairs
25 September 2025

War, weapons: “Yet today, we cannot close our eyes to the gap between this aspiration and the harsh reality we live in. For example in Gaza, where devastation, starvation, and despair have reached terrible proportions. For Austria, it is clear: The attacks of Hamas on Israel on October 7th were horrible and beyond imaginable brutality. They must be condemned by all of us. We have said it from day one and will continue to do so: Hamas must immediately and unconditionally free all hostages, end its rule in Gaza and hand over its weapons.

“At the same time, nothing justifies the devastating humanitarian catastrophe we are witnessing in Gaza. Civilians must be protected at all times. There is no justification for violating international law, including international humanitarian law. Austria is not only because of our own historical responsibility a friend of Israel, but the actions of the Israeli government break my heart.

“This war must end. The hostages must be freed. And humanitarian aid must reach the suffering civilians in Gaza as soon as possible. Our vision is clear: a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the Middle East. Two States, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security within recognized borders. Austria’s support for the Two-State Solution is not just words — we have supported the Palestinian Authority for many decades. At that point in the future when this step can make the most meaningful contribution to peace and when the right conditions have been met we will also recognize Palestine as a state.

“We welcome President Abbas’ condemnation of the October 7th attacks, his call to free the hostages, the prospect of elections and his demand to disarm Hamas. We thank all those who took a huge effort to end this war and bring solutions for peace and security to this region. These are steps toward peace — and Austria will work with all partners to turn them into reality.”

War, ceasefire: “We all see the basic principles of the Charter challenged in Ukraine, where Russia has been waging an illegal and unprovoked war of aggression against its neighbour. A very brutal war with horrific numbers of dead and wounded – soldiers and civilians.”

“We support US efforts to end the war through high-level diplomacy. Since the beginning of the war and especially since March many initiatives have been launched to end this war. Ukraine is ready for peace, but instead, Russia continues its attacks on cities and villages, on schools, hospitals, and kindergardens. Russia even escalates towards EU and NATO countries. This is unacceptable.

“Austria calls urgently for an immediate ceasefire — as a precondition for genuine talks to end this war. Russia cannot speak of peace during the day and bomb during the night! And it is absolutely clear that it is up to Ukraine and Europe to decide on their future and security architecture.”

Military spending, armed conflict, nuclear weapons, autonomous weapons: “Against the backdrop of rising insecurity and armed conflicts, countries are now heavily investing in security and defense - also in Europe. We all have the duty to protect our citizens. This is necessary, as we are confronted with the biggest war on our continent since 1945. But let us not fool ourselves: growing nuclear arsenals or uncontrolled autonomous weapons systems will not make our world a safer one. While we all must ensure the safety and security of our populations - we must never give up on international humanitarian law and we must ban weapons which kill indiscriminately.”

Disarmament: “We champion international law, the protection of civilians, disarmament and UN peace keeping. More than a hundred thousand Austrians have served as peacekeepers around the world.”

Azerbaijan
Mr. Ilham Heydar oglu Aliyev, President
25 September 2025

Armed conflict: “For many years, I spoke from this tribune about the tragedies of aggression, occupation, and injustice experienced by Azerbaijan. Today, I will speak about our long road to victory and peace, and a new era in Azerbaijan’s history, about how we managed to end the occupation through a liberation war, and how we won peace by political means.”

Armed conflict, militarism: “For nearly three decades, almost twenty percent of Azerbaijan’s sovereign territory remained under military occupation by Armenia. One million Azerbaijanis were expelled from their homes as a result of the policy of ethnic cleansing and war crimes conducted by Armenia. Their fundamental human rights were grossly violated. Four United Nations Security Council resolutions, adopted in 1993, demanded the immediate, complete, and unconditional withdrawal of Armenian armed forces from the occupied territories. Sadly, these resolutions were never implemented. Armenia demonstratively ignored them because no sanctions were imposed on it by the international community.”

Armed conflict, missiles, cluster munitions: In 2020, after almost 30 years of ineffective negotiations, Azerbaijan was forced to exercise its legitimate right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter. During the war, Armenia shelled our towns and cities with ballistic missiles and cluster munitions, killing more than a hundred innocent civilians. Azerbaijan, in its turn, conducted the war in strict compliance with international humanitarian law. We ensured the protection of civilians and refrained from targeting non-military infrastructure. In the 44-Day Patriotic War, our armed forces liberated occupied territories and restored Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity in accordance with international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

Armed conflict: “The recent Washington Summit has also signaled a new phase in Azerbaijan-US relations. Together with President Donald Trump, we signed the Memorandum of Understanding between the two governments regarding the establishment of a Strategic Working Group to develop a Charter on strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and the United States. It opens new horizons for partnership in political, economic, energy, regional connectivity, defense, security, and other fields.”

Armed conflict: Right after the victory in the Patriotic War of 2020, Azerbaijan started the large-scale reconstruction program in the liberated territories. During the time of occupation, Armenia levelled to the ground hundreds of Azerbaijani cities and villages, deliberately ruined 65 mosques. That was the policy of Armenia, which was ruled by war criminals for almost 30 years. We are rebuilding villages and cities razed to the ground. Under the Great Return Program, already more than 50,000 people live, work, and study in the liberated territories.”

Landmines: “One of the gravest humanitarian challenges facing Azerbaijan in the post-conflict period is the landmine contamination during the time of Armenian occupation. Since November 2020, more than 400 Azerbaijani civilians and military personnel were killed or seriously injured by landmine explosions. This massive contamination obstructs the safe return of displaced persons and delays reconstruction projects.”

Bahamas
Mr. Philip Davis, Prime Minister
27 September 2025

War, nuclear weapons: “The UN was created out of the ashes of a period when humanity had almost destroyed itself. The blood-soaked trenches of the First World War, brought about by the rivalries between the great powers of the day. The collapse of the League of Nations, made im-po-tent because of the refusal of the major powers to participate. The despair of the Great Depression. The rise of fascist ambition, which led to the devastation of the Second World War. The terror of atomic weapons. These are the foundations of the United Nations.”

Nuclear weapons: “With the stench of the atomic firestorms still hovering over Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the world raced to come together in a single body, to prevent such things from happening again…The atomic weapons of the 1940s have proliferated into the nuclear weapons of today, able to wipe out all human life many times over.”

Cyber: “Cyberattacks can leap borders in a second.”

Armed conflict: “For example, we cannot turn away from the agony of the Middle East. The aspirations of the Palestinian people for dignity and self-determination are real. Along with the state of Israel, both peoples have a right to security, sovereignty, and peace. For generations, this conflict has tested the conscience of the world. But resignation is not an option. The vision of two states, living side by side in peace and mutual recognition, remains the only pathway to justice, stability, and reconciliation. We must not abandon dialogue for despair.

Militarism: “If we think that standards are not evenly applied, that powerful states avoid consequences for aggression or human rights abuses, while weaker states are sanctioned more readily, then let’s step up and fix them.”

Militarism, armed conflict: “The lessons of history are clear. To retreat into a world of isolationist protectionism, where might is right, and the resources of the planet are plundered for the few, is to return to a time when life was famously described as “nasty, brutish and short”. There would be a fairly swift breakdown in international peace and security. With no global forum for conflict mediation, there is a strong likelihood that disputes would more often escalate into wars, border clashes and proxy conflicts.”

War: “Protectionist sanctions and trade barriers, the collapse of supply chains and the resulting higher costs of living around the world, would recreate the same conditions that fuelled the rise of fascism, and the explosion of the Second World War.”

Bahrain
Mr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2025

Armed conflict: “This 80th Session of the General Assembly is convened with the world facing accelerating transformations and complex challenges, including geopolitical tensions, armed conflicts, climate change, and major political and economic crises, all of which have grave humanitarian repercussions. This situation requires collective effort to strengthen international solidarity, to entrench dialogue and understanding, and to uphold international law, for a brighter future for humanity.”

Armed conflict, ceasefire: “The Kingdom of Bahrain seeks to advance this vision through the following main pillars: Firstly, a commitment to peaceful solutions to conflicts, especially in the Middle East. The Kingdom of Bahrain calls for a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, the protection of civilians, the release of hostages and detainees, expediting the sustained delivery of humanitarian aid, the implementation of the Arab and Islamic plan for recovery and reconstruction in the strip, and the firm rejection of any forced displacement schemes, settlement expansion, or attempts to alter the historical and religious status quo of Jerusalem, a city that has embraced divine faiths throughout history.

“My country warns of the repercussions of the war in Gaza on regional stability and global interests, and condemned the Israeli attack on the State of Qatar, which has long played a recognized role in mediation, together with the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America, to achieve a lasting ceasefire in Gaza and secure the release of hostages and detainees.

“Accordingly, my country calls for negotiations and diplomatic solutions as the path to resolving the Palestinian issue in line with international law and the UN Charter, and urges the international community to respond to the initiative of His Majesty the King – endorsed by the 33rd Arab Summit, the “Bahrain Summit” – calling for an international peace conference in the Middle East, leading to a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict through direct negotiations.

The Kingdom of Bahrain welcomes the decision of the General Assembly to endorse the “New York Declaration” on the peaceful settlement of the Palestinian question and the implementation of the two-state solution, and we commend the growing international recognition of the State of Palestine, and the efforts undertaken by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the French Republic in this regard.

“Bahrain further emphasizes the need for peaceful solutions to the crises in Syria, Lebanon, Sudan, Libya, Yemen, Somalia, and beyond, in a manner that guarantees their sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, and secures their peoples’ rights to stability and sustainable development. This approach is based on the principles of good neighbourliness, non-interference in internal affairs, and the rejection of the use or threat of force.”

Weapons of mass destruction, nuclear weapons, arms race: “The Kingdom also affirms the importance of joint action to rid the Middle East of weapons of mass destruction, spare it the risks of an arms race and military escalation, and calls for the resumption of US-Iranian negotiations to resolve the Iranian nuclear file, in a manner that promotes global peace and security.”

Cyber, artificial intelligence: “My country seeks to enhance partnerships with states, organisations and regional and international groupings in order to combat terrorism, strengthen cybersecurity, and ensure food and water security, promote digital innovation, and artificial intelligence, with the aim of providing a safe, stable, prosperous and sustainable environment.”

Cyber, artificial intelligence: “We have strengthened the rule of law and constitutional institutions, and made notable progress across all areas of human rights, and we take pride in our pioneering initiatives such as alternative sentencing measures, open prisons, a special court for children, supportive programmes for women, families, and children, and an advanced legislative system. Our economy continues to diversify away from oil, with a growing contribution from non-oil sectors and increasing foreign investment reflecting growing international confidence. In the digital sphere, Bahrain ranks among global leaders in innovation, digital transformation, and cybersecurity, and in his address before the General Assembly last year, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister called for the adoption of an international convention to regulate and govern the development of artificial intelligence.”

Bangladesh
Mr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the interim Government
26 September 2025

Artificial intelligence: “Madam President, the young generation of Bangladesh has already shown that they are the driving force of social change.  We are investing in their skills in information technology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and clean innovation. Our goal is clear to shape every young person, not only as a job seeker, but also as a job creator. To this end, in partnership with the UN, we are launching a permanent platform to connect young people at the grassroots with senior policymakers of the government.”

Artificial intelligence: “In this first changing technological era, one of our deepest concerns is the widening digital divide, quantum computing, artificial intelligence, large language models, modern communication systems. These must not be biased. And their benefits must be shared fairly with all.”

Armed conflict: “The ongoing conflict in our neighboring country Myanmar has created a situation of deep concern for the entire region. It threatens not only regional stability, but also the prospects for the safe return of the forcibly displaced Rohingya sheltered in Bangladesh. Eight years on, the regular crisis continues without any solution in sight.”

Armed conflicts, nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation, arms control: “This year, conflicts have scarred almost every corner of the globe in Europe, in South Asia, and in the Middle East. We live in the most densely populated region of the world. Nowhere else do so many nuclear armed states exist in such close proximity.  That is why we, in Bangladesh, deeply understand the urgency of disarmament and the prevention of nuclear proliferation. We call for the revival of global arms control theories that have grown weaker with time. We renew our call for the establishment of nuclear weapon free zones, particularly in the Middle East and South Asia, at the same time, we reaffirm the right of every nation to use nuclear energy peacefully, with full transparency.  As a responsible nation, even before commissioning our first nuclear power plant, Bangladesh, this year acceded to the joint convention on the safety of radioactive waste management under the IAEA. By doing so, we reaffirm our commitment to the highest standards of nuclear safety and transparency.”

Armed conflict: “I must warn of extreme nationalism and geopolitics that thrive on suffering of others and indifference to human pain and destroying the progress humanity has built through decades of struggle. Nowhere is this tragedy more visible than in Gaza. Children are dying of hunger, civilians are being killed without distinction. Entire neighborhoods, including hospitals and schools, are being wiped from the map. We do agree with the UN Independent International Inquiry Commission that we are witnessing a genocide happening live. Unfortunately, on behalf of the humanity, we are not doing enough to stop it.  If this continues, neither future generations nor history will forgive us. On behalf of the people of Bangladesh and of consentist citizens across the world, I once again make a strong appeal that two state solution must be implemented now through the establishment of an independent state of Palestine with Jerusalem as its capital. Only on the basis of the pre 1967 borders with Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace, can justice be done.”

Barbados
Ms. Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister
26 September 2025

War: “Disturbingly war only entered the daily lexicon of the West not when thousands were dying on the continent of Africa or in Myanmar but when war became a reality in Ukraine. Nevertheless, we call for peace in Ukraine.

“Only yesterday a leading British Newspaper reminded us that for 500 days 260,000 people virtually the population of my country people have been trapped in the Sudanese city of El Fasher. They reported while political progress stalls, those who attempt escape are killed and those who remain inside are starved. The world must not ignore the horror in Sudan and definitely not Gaza.

“The genocidal destruction taking place in Gaza right now no attention. Yes there must be a release of the hostages taken on October 7th. But we have now gone to a point where all of our human sensibilities are offended by the continuous and disproportionate attacks on the Palestinian people and the failure to allow access by the international community to the survivors for the provision of humanitarian aid. The survivors are entitled to use the words of Bob Marley - “How can you be sitting there telling me that you care? When every time I look around the people suffer in the suffering in every way, in everywhere.”

“It calls to mind the Roman historian, Tacitus who quoted a Scottish chief team fighting against the military mate of the Roman empire. A mention only the last two sentences.

“They plunder, they butcher, their ravish… they make it desert and call it ‘peace’.” They make a desert and they call it peace. The real tragedy of war is that these children, when they become grandparents will still be answering the innocent questions posed by their grandchildren as to how they lost their limbs. “Granny, how did you lose your leg?” And when they answer, we run the risk that the violence and hate will be perpetuated for another two to three generations. This is NOT good. Madame President, it is happening now on our watch. We can and must do better to secure the peace - in the name of the children.

“At the very least the international community must immediately find the funding to support the children of Gaza and the children of Sudan for the next three months. In Gaza it is $66 million that is needed and $200 million for Sudan. This money is mostly nutrition related, to reverse or mitigate famine and also to provide water and sanitation and health interventions. We should note that there have been multiple disease outbreaks, including cholera.

“So Madam president, to be very clear as I move on, a lasting peace can never be achieved through violence; it can only be achieved through justice and dialogue - talking. And lest we forget, where others are seeking to build the peace and preserve humanity in Gaza, the international community must not condone the bombing of those states who look to facilitate peace.”

Armed conflict, artificial intelligence: “In addition to our inability to bring about peace in multiple conflicts, there continues to be a number of issues that threaten our way of life and the stability of our planet: … Unregulated AI.”

Artificial intelligence: “The two instruments identified by our Secretary-General for regulating AI must now be our priority if we are to avoid severe deepening inequality and leaving our people exposed to the risk of exploitation and the distortion of facts. I must say that Regrettably, I have experienced on a well-known commercial AI platform examples of censorship that seek to deny access to the details of our history in this hemisphere - both in terms of the Barbados Slave Code and the South Carolina Slave Code.”

Armed conflict: “Haiti, once a beacon of emancipation and revolution, is today a victim of centuries of external interference and contemporary internal conflict. We thank Kenya for its extraordinary leadership of the Multinational Security Support mission, and look forward to the enhanced support of the UN Security Council and the Organisation of the American States. Haiti requires a long term support plan addressing security and development needs. With the requisite political will, the UN Security Council and the international development system are well-equipped to deliver.”

Small arms and light weapons: “We urge dialogue with our friends and partners especially in the United States on the inescapable issue of the flow of small arms and light weapons not only into Haiti, but across this hemisphere. Fragile economies in the democracies of the Caribbean Community are now being threatened by this incessant flow of illegally obtained weapons and the increasingly organised criminal elements which utilise them. We thank Secretary General Guterres for his unswerving support we need others to join now to ensure Haiti can turn the corner and prepare itself for free and fair democratic elections.”

Militarism: “What is even more in the Caribbean Sea, we are witnessing a shocking violation of a hemispheric understanding that the Caribbean be treated as a Zone of Peace. There has been a build up in military assets in the Caribbean by both sides, the United States and Venezuela. We believe that any such build up could occasion even an accident can put the Southern Caribbean at disproportionate risk. It is not acceptable for us to be viewed as collateral damage. Full respect for the territorial integrity of each, and every state in the Caribbean must be respected.”

War: “Almost all wars end as a result of dialogue, let us make a greater effort to have the necessary conversations that are needed to prevent war.”

Belarus
Mr. Maxim Ryzhenkov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2025

War: “In the West, a "truth" of its own about the events of those years has emerged. Memory is being erased, monuments are being demolished, history textbooks are being rewritten. Again, on the streets of cities, we often hear Nazi slogans and calls. Thus, the generation of the 21st century is being raised, which has not seen the horrors of that war, has not even heard about them from their parents. Therefore, it is fed by the false heroism of its ancestors, who once joined the Hitler coalition of nations, dreaming of world domination.”

War: “Secondly, indeed, the UN keeps the planet from a new world war. Its key mechanism – the Security Council – allows great powers to discuss issues of war and peace at the table, rather than on the battlefield. However, unfortunately, this body is being engaged less and less. Its influence on world affairs is no longer what it used to be. And, to be frank, the UN has proven unable to prevent many bloody regional conflicts of modernity. And the further we go – the more so.”

Militarism: “As a result [of NATO’s expansion], the balance of power in Europe was undermined, and security threats arose for many states. The Yugoslav crisis, the bloodshed in several post-Soviet republics, and the conflict in Ukraine are the most striking examples of these consequences. And the recent migration crisis in Europe is no exception.

“Today it is clear – the path to ending the bloodshed in Ukraine lies through the return of all parties in Europe to an understanding of the importance of adhering to the principle of indivisibility of security. Territories, resources, and other issues play a distant secondary role here. No matter what anyone tries to say.

“And it is important that one of the main global centers of power – the USA – fully recognizes the importance of this thesis. Unfortunately, such understanding is lacking in the EU countries, which continue to stoke the regional conflict with Ukrainian kindling. This situation especially requires joint efforts to raise the level of trust between countries, although today there are no ready-made recipes. But action is necessary.”

Landmines: “Look at what our European neighbors are doing on the EU border with Belarus and Russia – They're laying mines, building walls, ditches, defensive lines, and barbed wire. They're trying to create a sense of impending threat from "barbarians" in the East among their population. And the first casualties have already been reported, albeit among NATO soldiers, who are either drowning in swamps or blown up by their own mines.”

Militarism: “The region's frantic militarization is driving Europe, especially the new EU and NATO member states, into deep financial trouble.”

Militarism, military spending: “More than a billion inhabitants of the planet still live in conditions of multidimensional poverty. Conflicts in Ukraine, Palestine, and Syria. Post-war syndrome in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, and a number of other countries, which prevents the peoples of these countries from establishing a solid path to recovery. Large-scale military actions against sovereign countries outside the legal framework. Trillions of dollars spent on mindless militarization. This is what we've come to.”

Belgium
Mr. Bart de Wever Prime Minister
25 September 2025

Militarism, armed conflict: “We face new forms of imperialism, new military threats, and violent conflicts that destabilise entire regions.”

Armed conflict: “Those who wish for peace must be prepared to defend it. That is why we stand firmly with Ukraine.”

Arms race, military spending: “Belgium is therefore assuming its full responsibility, investing more in defence. Together with our European partners, we are striving for greater integration of our armed forces and defence industry.”

Arms trafficking: “We must also confront the rise of international organised crime. Criminals know no borders. Criminal networks exploit the gaps between police forces and legal systems. They fuel terrorism, human trafficking, and the illegal arms trade. But there is hope. Across Europe and in Latin America, I have witnessed a new willingness to deepen cooperation. I am convinced many African and Asian countries struggle with the same problems.”

Belize
Mr. John Briceño, Prime Minister
26 September 2025

Nuclear weapons, military spending: “This year alone, six nuclear powers have been drawn into conflict in Asia, in Europe and in the Middle East. Military spending has rose by 9% to $2.7 trillion last year, even as global insecurity deepened. That is more than half the GDP of all the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean.”

Wars, weapons: “Wars in Ukraine, Gaza and Sudan dragging on year after year, hundreds of thousands dead, millions displeased, orphaned, left with nothing. The images should compel us to act, and yet, too often, the UN is actively blocked from doing its job in Gaza. One of the largest man made humanitarian crises grows worse day by day. The UN's relief agency lifeline to millions is being pushed to the brink, and the two-state solution, the vision of peace this body has long supported, is slipping away. In Sudan, a UN embargo has not stopped the killing. In Haiti, gangs have overrun the country. Political turmoil depends on a mission meant to restore order, Kenyan led, backed by the UN, remains underfunded and under resourced. These are only a few of the many crises, and in each of them, weapons flow, drugs flow, violence crosses borders and governments are left weaker.”

Nuclear weapons, conflict: “Latin America and the Caribbean are committed to maintaining our region as a zone of peace, an area free of nuclear weapons, an area where conflicts are prevented through dialogue. And it is for this reason that we are concerned about the serious implications of utilizing military tactics against civilian vessels in the Caribbean Sea.”

Artificial intelligence: “Taiwan is a thriving democracy with global leadership in high tech innovation, semiconductors, AI, biotechnology, renewable energy, all vital to global supply chain security and sustainable development.”

War: “The genocide in Palestine must stop now. What hope can a child in Gaza have for tomorrow when their home is destroyed, their family murdered, their future erased? What hope can there be if their right to self determination is extinguished? The UN once confronted apartheid in South Africa with declarations, sanctions, conventions and suspension of the regime from this assembly. We must draw that lesson again. No regime that desecrates the charter and destroys a people has a place in this hall, and that is why the rule of law must prevail.”

Benin
Mr. Marc Hermanne Gninadoou Araba, Permanent Representative to the United Nations
29 September 2025

Armed conflicts: “Benin observes with concern the proliferation of armed conflicts, from Eastern Europe to the Middle East, from the Sahel to the Great Lakes region, threatening the lives of millions of human beings and causing massive population displacements, not to mention the weakening of institutions and the destruction of infrastructure, which fuels a cycle of poverty and violence in areas of tension.

“Faced with these realities, our conviction is clear: no conflict can find a lasting solution through the use of force. Only inclusive dialogue, backed by genuine political will and accompanied by coherent international engagement, can pave the way for a just and lasting peace, particularly in the humanitarian chaos in Gaza, where the prospects for reconstruction seem uncertain.

“Benin reaffirms its support for the two-state solution as the only viable option for a definitive settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, in accordance with the relevant Security Council resolutions and the New York Declaration adopted at the end of the international conference jointly organized by France and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in July 2025.

“Benin is also following with deep concern the evolution of the crisis in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, marked by persistent violence despite recent diplomatic initiatives. We commend the efforts of Qatar and the United States of America to promote de-escalation and open up prospects for inclusive dialogue.”

Small arms and light weapons, armed conflict: “We call on stakeholders to silence the guns and encourage the African Union to ensure strategic coherence, operational complementarity, and alignment of peace efforts in the Great Lakes region. Benin advocates for preventive diplomacy to regain its rightful place in the work of our organization.

“Preventing conflict is always less costly, both in human and financial terms, than dealing with its consequences, as is the case in our subregion, which is currently facing the threat of terrorism, violent extremism, and transnational crime. The situation in the northern part of my country, which is under attack from terrorist movements, particularly JNIM in the triple border area with the Sahel countries, is critical.”

Bhutan
Mr. Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister
26 September 2025

Armed conflict: “Eighty years ago, from the devastation of the Second World War, the founders of the United Nations dared to imagine a world at peace. They chose cooperation over conflict, dialogue over division, and hope over despair. They built an institution to protect humanity from its worst instincts and higher risks. Today, our challenges are different, but no less urgent: a planet in a climate crisis, persistent poverty, and conflicts that shatter lives and erode trust among nations.”

Bolivia (Plurinational State of)
Mr. Luis Alberto Arce Catacora, Constitutional President
25 September 2025

War, artificial intelligence: “Today, in the world, there is greater inequality in the distribution of wealth than there was 80 years ago. The poverty figures, rather than being curbed, is on the increase. The risk that any remaining peace should disappear and the Third World War would overtake the entire planet is very close, if we don't react in time. The danger here is that the unstoppable force of capitalism, with the misuse of artificial intelligence, would increase the climate change, would liquidate the planet, and would convert the immense majority of the population into unnecessary beings, is also something that we can't completely rule out. We're not in a good place.”

Nuclear weapons, war, militarism, weapons: “The UN was established on the basis of the foundations of the skeletons of the Holocaust, and not only physical, but also moral ruins left by fascism, racism, and also increasing neocolonialism with the use of two atomic bombs. One of the goals that gave rise to the United Nations was to not repeat the barbarity of war. Today, we hear the echoes of the drums of war on all continents. We see the practice of genocide on the sole decision of two countries. We deny the right to be free and sovereign to a people. Sophisticated weapons are used against a sovereign country, and increasing militarization is being promoted within a region with double standards in combating the war on drugs. And at the same time, we maintain a criminal blockade against its people and the state for the sole crime of having claimed its own independence more than six decades ago.”

Wars, cyber, biological weapons, outer space: “Wars are not the same as we had 80 years ago. Wars now are multi dimensional. They use economic, financial, media, information, cyber warfare, without even taking into account military warfare, which now encompasses biological warfare, war from space and other technologies that continue to be developed with impunity on the basis of technology of war. It would be nothing new to have climate wars that would have an impact on sovereignty and food security, jeopardizing strategic resources such as water. We are putting at risk the very survival of the human race on Earth and of life itself on the planet. Just taking off the mask from all of these tragedies, we can see that the cause of all of this is the wild capitalist system that places the greed of the few over the rights and lives of the majority on the planet. The cause of this is the current capitalist development, which tries to resolve its own crisis and ends up returning to the original forms of accumulation and increasing rates of profit.”

War, militarisation: “Added to that, we have a third cause of the current wars, which is more immediate. That is the obsessive zeal of the new Trump administration to give the United States back its position as a hegemonic power at the cost of the liberal free trade globalization and to cause pain and death. Why? For what? To take ownership over natural resources, to take control over commodities for the benefit of an imperialist system, and to subordinate the majority of countries for their insatiable thirst for privilege and wealth, and to try to maintain a unipolar or order at any cost. The recent publication of the US Strategic Defense Policy sets out a deployment of its troops around the world in its areas of influence, Canada, Central and South America, among others. The recent history with our neighbors has made us realize this is nothing else but a new way of implementing Monroeism, which was a doctrine which said that America is for the North Americans, generating conditions for a new era of neocolonialism.”

War, militarism, missiles, submarines: “From the indigenous name for Latin America and the Caribbean, we can say that we are a zone of peace, and we did so at the Second Summit of CELAC in Havana in 2014. The nations in our region are complying with the mandate that we set ourselves, still bearing in mind our political and ideological differences on various topics, and with border and territorial occupation based disputes that remain ongoing, we can say we invert the equation of the Pentagon, that it is peace rather than war that guides our international relations. In hearing this statement in 2022 in this same place, I came to appeal to the United Nations for the General Assembly to declare to the world that it would be an entire territory of peace. And 11 years have passed since that historic declaration of CELAC, and three years since I made that statement in this assembly, not only have we not declared the world as a zone of peace, rather we are facing the harsh reality of seeing how death is becoming increasingly normalized in international relations. We also feel the threat of fascism in all of its variants, to try to exploit and dominate peoples at the current time.”

“The threat of death is covering Latin America and the Caribbean. We are seeing a bellicose potential, which would even go so far as to use missiles, submarines, helicopters, using the pretext that this maritime space is being used against the national security of the United States, through the illegal introduction of cocaine, through illegal gangs belonging to drug cartels. Beyond violations of international law, this provocative action of imperialism has two intentions: First, to intervene into our kindred Bolivarian republic of Venezuela, that since 1999 has been raising high the flags of the freedom of its people and the sovereignty of its state, and which possesses considerable natural resources, particularly in oil, which the North wishes to appropriate and claim. Secondly, to try to reconquer Latin America and the Caribbean on the basis of undermining liberal democracy, to impose militarization and to use other colonialist practices that we should call out. Imperialism is said to be used to combat drug trafficking. This is a fallacy, because if this were true, it would actually be taking effect within their own country, where the demand for this type of drugs is high, and where in its origins, we see different types of organized crime. What the United States is trying to do is to give our region the role of holding back the edification of a multi polar world, and to submit it to its own interests.”

War, militarism: “The threat of death is also afflicting the Middle East. In the Middle East, the pain of millions of families and the death of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians finds no consolation. All of this, history tells us, has the unconditional support of the United States, which wants to speed up the displacement of the Palestinian people as quickly as possible. Peace will be an empty word while the Palestinian people continues to face practices of genocide and does not have its own land and full sovereignty, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

“But in this region that is not the only thing that's happening. The fragile political and geopolitical stability is threatened by preventive attacks against the Islamic Republic of Iran and against the small nation of Yemen. Very similarly to what is happening, what was done by ex President George Bush, the threat of death is also clear in Eurasia. In Eurasia, despite the intermittent attempts to achieve a political outcome, the expansionist ambitions of NATO, which is nothing else than the military arm of concentrated capital, is trying to attract the military conflict by using Ukraine as a launch pad against the Russian Federation.”

War: “I wish to propose that we firstly establish a commission for reparations following slavery, apartheid, genocide and colonialism in the countries of the global south. To do so, the United Nations should find a way to ensure that those designing war and death pay their billions of dollars rather into a reparations fund.”

Demilitarisation, military spending: “Secondly, we should convert the UN General Assembly into a body with binding power so that it can be an effective voice for all peoples, and not a space where we simply realize the will of the most powerful. We need this forum to be an ethical nucleus, a political heart and the living spirit of a new era guided by the culture of life. We need the resolutions adopted within the UN General Assembly to not be vetoed by any superpower and to be truly complied with. This means ensuring that multilateralism is truly valid and not just a formality. We should declare the world as a zone of peace and promote demilitarization as far as possible. The immense majority of the population in the world refuses to accept that the revitalization or overcoming the cyclical crises of capital should be done on the basis of investment in billions of dollars to manufacture all types of conventional and unconventional weapons. Just 1/3 of military expenditure would give us better and greater education, health and housing guaranteed for everyone. The UN has to become a pact for peace and for life as the shared destiny of everyone who believes in living together.”

Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mr. Željko Komšić, Chairman of the Presidency
25 September 2025

War, militarism: “However, the reality and what is happening today in different parts of our planet clearly indicates that peace in the world is often not in the interest of certain geopolitical actors, for whom conflict or war is a means to realize their political and economic interests that largely deviate from the goals established in the Charter of the United Nations.”

Armed conflict: “We witness that in the past period, a certain armed conflict has been consciously and deliberately provoked, so that then, through the use of significant armed force, which a state with lesser or weaker armed force cannot resist, the attacked state is required to sit at the negotiating table and sign a renunciation of parts of its territory, supposedly in the name of peace but actually in the name of force.

“I believe that we all in this room know that the Charter of the United Nations allows for the changing of state borders, but exclusively through voluntary agreement between states and without the use of armed force or political pressure backed by armed force.”

War, militarism: “In this specific case, I am referring to Ukraine and the pressures through which it, as a sovereign state, is going, in which it is being asked to renounce parts of its territory in order to achieve an allegedly lasting and sustainable peace. Are we, in this specific case, participants in the change of the world order, in which peace is not set as the ultimate goal, but war and armed force appear as a legitimate means to achieve the political goals of major geopolitical actors? By changing interstate borders through the use of armed force, which creates political pressure with the aim of forcing a particular state to renounce parts of its territory, a dangerous precedent is being set in international law, which can easily become a rule, and that ultimately means that we would live in an unstable world in which peace no longer has value. This is certainly not the desired outcome, nor could such a thing be justified by any statement from the Charter of the United Nations or other acts of international law.”

War: “An equally undesirable situation, today, exists in the Gaza Strip, where such violence is being inflicted on the local population, which in its form indicates the existence of several elements of genocide, as established in the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.”

War: “What kind of peace, development, or protection of human rights can we even talk about if such violence, violence with forms of genocide against the Palestinian people, is allowed? Does this mean that the political interests of certain countries or the interests of corporate capital are stronger and more significant than our common obligation to protect peace in every part of the world, and thus the prerequisites for the development and sustainability of different societies, and at the same time to protect the human rights of every individual in the world?

“This is a great challenge we face today, and we cannot escape it, nor can we continuously silence it for the sake of some higher opportunistic interests. Let us just remember that phrase: silence is actually an expression of either cowardice or approval.”

Airstrikes, armed conflict: “A little over 30 years ago, Bosnia and Herzegovina was faced with aggression that was coming from neighboring countries. At that time, the United Nations organized peacekeeping forces called UNPROFOR, in which countries that expressed interest participated… But unfortunately, a stain remained on that United Nations mission, as certain commanders of UNPROFOR did not want to activate airstrikes to prevent ethnic cleansing, especially the genocide committed in Srebrenica in July 1995.”

Arms embargo, armed conflict: “I want to remind you that during that period of the 1990s, the international community, through the organs of the United Nations, imposed an embargo on Bosnia and Herzegovina for the purchase of defensive weapons, thereby preventing the defense of our state from double aggression. This would have significantly shortened the duration of the armed conflict; many lives would have been saved, as a peace agreement would have been reached much earlier, for which a necessary condition was the creation of a balance in military power between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the two neighboring countries that committed aggression. Due to that embargo, the aggression against Bosnia and Herzegovina lasted almost four years, and a large number of human lives were unnecessarily lost.”

Arms embargo: “So, after we had an embargo to defend ourselves, today we have an embargo on democracy and democratic development.”

Botswana
Mr. Duma Gideon Boko, President
25 September 2025

Armed conflict: “I also welcome the decision by Britain, Australia, Canada, and France, to recognize the State of Palestine, joining other nations that have already done so. No people should be dispossessed of their lands, and we stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people in their pursuit of a home and of dignity. So too we reaffirm our support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. We urge all parties to stop the war, and seek a peaceful resolution.”

Brazil
Mr. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President
23 September 2025

Military spending: “The international community needs to review its priorities: Reduce spending on wars and increase development aid; Ease the foreign debt burden of the poorest countries, especially in Africa; And set minimum global taxation standards so that the super-rich pay more tax than workers.”

Artificial intelligence: “To mitigate the risks of artificial intelligence, we are committed to building multilateral governance in line with the Global Digital Compact approved in this plenary last year.”

Weapons of mass destruction: “In Latin America and the Caribbean, we are experiencing a period of growing polarization and instability. Maintaining the region as a zone of peace is our priority. We are a continent free of weapons of mass destruction, without ethnic or religious conflicts.”

Arms trade: “The most effective way to combat drug trafficking is through cooperation to crack down on money laundering and limit the arms trade.”

Armed conflict, militarism: “Using lethal force in situations that do not constitute armed conflict is tantamount to executing people without trial. Other parts of the world have already witnessed interventions that caused more damage than they sought to prevent, with serious humanitarian consequences. The path of dialogue must not be closed in Venezuela.”

Armed conflict: “In the conflict in Ukraine, we all know that there will be no military solution. The recent meeting in Alaska has raised hopes for a negotiated settlement. We must pave the way for a realistic solution. This means taking into account the legitimate security concerns of all parties. The African Initiative and the Group of Friends of Peace, created by China and Brazil, can contribute to promoting dialogue.”

Armed conflict, arms race: “No situation is more emblematic of the disproportionate and illegal use of force than that of Palestine. The terrorist attacks perpetrated by Hamas are indefensible from any angle. But nothing, absolutely nothing, justifies the ongoing genocide in Gaza. There, under tons of rubble, tens of thousands of innocent women and children are buried. Buried there too are international humanitarian law and the myth of the ethical superiority of the West. This massacre would not be happening without the complicity of those who could prevent it. In Gaza, hunger is used as a weapon of war and the forced displacement of populations is practiced with impunity. I express my admiration for the Jews who, inside and outside Israel, oppose this collective punishment. The Palestinian people are at risk of disappearing. They will only survive with an independent state integrated into the international community. This is the solution advocated by more than 150 UN members, reaffirmed yesterday here in this very plenary, but blocked by a single veto. It is regrettable that President Mahmoud Abbas was prevented by the host country from occupying Palestine's seat at this historic moment. The spread of this conflict to Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and Qatar is fueling an unprecedented arms race.”

Nuclear weapons: “Bombs and nuclear weapons will not protect us from the climate crisis.”

Brunei Darussalam
Mr. Dato Erywan Pehin Yusof, Minister of Foreign Affairs II
27 September 2025

Ceasefire: “Today, we continue this role through the observer teams, led by Malaysia, which were deployed to monitor the ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand. Additionally, we maintain our long-standing participation in the UN Interim Forces in Lebanon, where Bruneian women and men serve with dedication.”

War, explosive weapons: “Eighty years ago, after the horrors of the Second World War, humanity made a vow: Never Again. Never again to genocide. Never again to killing with impunity. Never again to silence in the face of atrocity. Yet today, in Gaza, we see actions that betray that vow: indiscriminate bombings, forced displacements, collective punishments, and weaponisation of food and medicine. Entire neighbourhoods in Gaza have been reduced to rubble under the guise of security. Children are born under blockade. Water is undrinkable. Electricity is a luxury. Freedom is a dream. We are told this is about defence. But when bombs fall on schools, on hospitals, on houses of worship. When humanitarian aid workers, journalists and medics are killed with impunity. What are they really defending? The suffering inflicted upon the Palestinian people bears chilling resemblance to the last century’s darkest chapters. Chapters marked by the Holocaust, by ethnic cleansing, and by the mass uprooting of entire populations during the Second World War. Today, to ignore such patterns of suffering is not neutrality. It is complicity, it is humanity abandoning its conscience.

“It is profoundly troubling that the very phrase “Never Again,” born from the ashes of the Holocaust, finds itself contradicted by the actions of the occupying regime. Its relentless pursuit of expansionism through annexation, illegal settlements, and the systematic erasure of Palestine echoes the ideologies of the past, such as the “Greater Germanic Reich,” which once sought domination at the expense of justice and humanity. Both of these ideologies contradict international law and the collective vow of ‘Never Again’.

“‘Never Again’ does not belong to one people alone. It is a universal promise for all humankind. And we should stop breaking that promise. Recognising the State of Palestine, and supporting its full membership in the UN, is not a reward. It is an inherent right of the Palestinian people. It is a matter of principle, justice, and humanity Brunei stands in unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people, and in this regard, we fully support the New York Declaration endorsed at the High-Level Conference on the Question of Palestine, co-chaired by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the French Republic. We believe it offers a path for a just and lasting peace. We say all this not out of hatred, but out of hope for a future where both Palestinians and Israelis live in peace, not with domination, but with dignity, not with revenge, but with reconciliation.”

Bulgaria
Mr. Rossen Dimitrov Jeliazkov, Prime Minister
26 September 2025

Armed conflict: “In Bulgaria, we carry a simple truth at the heart of our identity: “Unity Makes Strength”. These words are more than a motto — they are a legacy born of struggle and solidarity. They echo through our history, from the forging of our independence to the building of our democratic institutions. And today, in a world shaken by division and conflicts, this principle feels more urgent than ever.”

Armed conflict, ceasefire, drones: “Ever since the adoption of the UN Charter, international peace and security have never been more threatened. Russia’s full-scale war of aggression against Ukraine, with its far-reaching global repercussions, represents an existential challenge to the rules-based international order. This is not merely a European conflict — it threatens the very legitimacy of the United Nations. It is utterly unacceptable that a founding UN member with a permanent Security Council seat wages war while disregarding international humanitarian and human rights law. The only path to peace is clear: Ukraine’s sovereignty must be respected, and its territorial integrity fully restored. A full, immediate, and unconditional ceasefire is essential. In recent weeks Russia is escalating and conducting flagrant violations of EU Member States and NATO Allies sovereign airspace by drones and planes. These actions demonstrate that Russia is the one undermining the prospects of peace. These actions cannot be tolerated and are meeting our strong, collective resolve and response.”

Armed conflict: “The need for urgent action is clear in the Middle East. The brutal Hamas attack of 7 October 2023, and the devastating conflict that followed, have caused immense human suffering. Bulgaria mourns the loss of every innocent life—Israeli and Palestinian alike. In Gaza, tens of thousands of civilians have been killed, neighborhoods destroyed, and countless people displaced. We must not allow this tragedy to leave a permanent scar on humanity’s conscience.

Ceasefire: “A sustainable ceasefire and credible political process are urgently needed. Only a two-state solution, grounded in international law and mutual recognition, can secure a just and lasting peace, allowing Israelis and Palestinians to live side by side in dignity and security.”

Armed conflict: “The crisis in the Middle East and North Africa is interconnected and threatens regional stability. Yemen faces famine and disease, Syria needs an inclusive, UN-led dialogue for a democratic transition, and Sudan teeters on the brink amid ongoing fighting and mass displacement. Instability in Libya and the Sahel shows how weak institutions allow conflicts to spread. Bulgaria calls for a new regional security architecture, led by the UN, grounded in diplomacy, respect for sovereignty, and long-term investment in peace and development.”

Nuclear weapons: “Nuclear non-proliferation, disarmament, and arms control remain central to our collective security. We condemn rhetoric and actions that threaten stability and stress the need for renewed diplomacy. Iran must fully cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency and ensure the peaceful nature of its nuclear program, while all parties work to de-escalate tensions through diplomacy. Likewise, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea must dismantle its programs for weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missiles in a complete, verifiable, and irreversible way, in accordance with international law and Treaty obligations.”

Artificial intelligence, outer space, cyber: “Digital governance and new technologies are central to our efforts. Bulgaria supports inclusive, multistakeholder approaches to global digital governance, artificial intelligence, and space technologies, ensuring they advance the Sustainable Development Goals. We emphasize the need for open and secure internet, protection of human rights, and digital inclusion.”

Burkina Faso
Mr. Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo, Prime Minister
27 September 2025

Armed conflict: “It is therefore with a sense of powerlessness that we witness the failure of initiatives that are nevertheless sensible, due to rivalries between states and unresolved crises, the most emblematic of which is the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which has gone on for far too long. The culpable inaction of the international community The culpable inaction of the international community in the face of the defiance of state authority by terrorists financed and supported by other states adds to all these disturbing paradoxes.”

Militarism, armed conflict: “We firmly reject the report entitled ‘Children and Armed Conflict in Burkina Faso,’ which is riddled with untruths and whose very title is a semantic manipulation. On this occasion, I would like to salute the courage of our fighting forces and pay tribute to the civilian and military martyrs who fell on the field of honour in defence of our sovereignty.”

Militarism: “We have always proclaimed it: terrorism has become the perfect pretext for certain States to plunder African resources.Thus, our countries find themselves confronted with terrorists who are, in reality, only auxiliaries of predatory foreign armies.”

Militarism: “In the specific case of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, we reaffirm our unwavering support for its people, who have endured decades of campaigns of isolation, illegal sanctions, and relentless provocations. In the face of this flagrant interference in the sovereign affairs of a nation and this economic aggression with disastrous humanitarian consequences, we express our solidarity with this country, which is resisting with dignity to preserve its right to choose its own destiny, without ultimatums or foreign diktats. We therefore call for reason and diplomacy to put an end to all hostile actions against Venezuela.”

Burundi
Mr. Edouard Bizimana, Minister of Foreign Affairs
29 September 2025

War: “Eighty years ago, the United Nations was born in a world ravaged by war, with its primary mission being to preserve peace, foster cooperation among nations, and promote human rights. However, given what is happening today in some parts of the world, we must ask ourselves whether the UN remains on this path.”

Armed conflict: “Furthermore, Burundi is a living example of resilience and the restoration of peace. Our nation has endured very difficult times, but thanks to the will of its people and its strengthened institutions, it has been able to move beyond conflict and has chosen the path of reconciliation, stability, and mutual respect. We have established national transitional justice mechanisms, including a Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which continues its work with great dedication, seriousness, and courage, so that future generations can build on solid foundations, free from hatred and the spirit of revenge.”

War: “As we celebrate eight decades of our common Organization, we cannot turn a blind eye to the tensions, the open or latent conflicts, the horrors we are witnessing in Gaza, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, the Sahel, and many other places around the world. The violence we have witnessed in recent times, and especially the indifference and cynicism that accompany it, have reached such a level that one may sometimes wonder where our humanity; our empathy; our sense of duty; our commitment to cooperate for a better world has gone.”

War: “In this renewed effort to build multilateralism based on justice, dialogue, and truth, acknowledging historical injustices is essential as a foundation for achieving lasting peace. That is why Burundi wishes to reaffirm the importance of recognizing the genocide committed against the Hutu people of Burundi in 1972, a matter that was already brought to the attention of this United Nations General Assembly during its 79th session. Remembrance, truth, and reconciliation are powerful tools for rebuilding societies and consolidating peace. Silence cannot be an option when it comes to restoring the dignity of the victims and preventing the recurrence of past tragedies. Therefore, Burundi humbly requests the support of all United Nations Member States in the process of recognizing this genocide.”

Cabo Verde
Mr. José Ulisses Correia e Silva, Prime Minister
26 September 2025

Armed conflict: “The 80th anniversary of our organization comes in turbulent times marked by:

Devastating wars and armed conflicts;
Humanitarian crises of enormous magnitude;
Expansion of populism and extremism;
A structured anti-system that fights to impose a system that eliminates the boundary between democracy and autocracy, as well as, between truth and lies.”

Armed conflict: “Global peace and security remain threatened, increasingly threatened. Cabo Verde's position has been clear, predictable and consistent:

We condemn coups d'état;
We condemn terrorism;
We condemn genocide;
We condemn assaults on the territorial integrity of countries;
We advocate dialogue and diplomacy for the prevention and resolution of conflicts.

“We support a just and durable peace for the resolution of the war in Ukraine. We support the two-state solution, Israel and Palestine, living side by side, in peace and security. We advocate a strong commitment to preventing and combating terrorism and conflict in Africa.”

Cyber: “Due to our location between the African Continent, Europe and the Americas, the EU, the USA and Brazil are our first-line partners in cooperative maritime security, preventing and combating drug trafficking, human trafficking, maritime piracy, illegal fishing and cybersecurity.”

Cambodia
Mr. Sokhonn Prak, Deputy Prime Minister
27 September 2025

War, militarism: “Eight decades ago, in the aftermath of a devastating world war, nations large and small united behind a singular vision: peace, development, and human dignity can only be guaranteed through collective action. Yet as we gather to celebrate this important milestone, the ideals of multilateralism are being put to the test. Geopolitical divisions have deepened: rivalries between major powers too often hinder Security Council decisions, leaving crises unresolved in many parts of the world and millions of lives at risk. The world now faces the harsh reality that “might makes right” and that interdependence is no longer the cornerstone of peace, but rather a tool of threat and coercion. If we truly believe that we are "better together," we must reinvigorate trust in multilateral institutions, invest in preventive diplomacy, and ensure that the UN is equipped— politically and financially—to respond decisively and effectively to old and emerging challenges.”

War: “Allow me to speak about peace and to do so from lived experience. For decades, war and genocide traumatized our people and destroyed our country. Dialogue, and not war, between two true statesmen, our late King Father, His Majesty Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk and our former Prime Minister, Samdech Techo Hun Sen, both blessed with wisdom, willpower and genuine patriotism, had engendered the peace process and national reconciliation. It is now well known that peace was finally achieved through the Win-Win Policy of Samdech Techo Hun Sen that ended 30 years of conflict without a single bullet being fired.”

Landmines, armed conflict: “With the complete peace at home, Cambodia has been able to offer our humble contribution to peace building and peace keeping around the world. From a country once hosting UN peacekeeping mission, Cambodia has become a steadfast contributor to global security. Since 2006, we have deployed over 10,000 peacekeepers—more than 800 of them women—to ten UN missions across the globe. They have protected civilians, cleared landmines, and support rebuilding war-torn communities.”

Ceasefire: “We are grateful that a ceasefire, brokered by US President Trump, effectively halted armed clashes that had caused deaths, injuries and destructions, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands innocent civilians. However, the ceasefire remains very fragile despite expressed commitment from both countries on the sincerity to strictly comply with the ceasefire terms, to rebuild trust and restore normalcy.”

Ceasefire: “Of great concern is the forced eviction of Cambodian civilians and threats to use national laws against them and to evict hundreds more from the lands they have lived in for decades. Such a way of territorial control on the segment of the border yet to be demarcated demonstrates a clear disregard not only for the terms of the ceasefire, but also for the mutual agreements on the settlement of border issues...Cambodia has consistently and strictly observed the ceasefire, demonstrating good faith and full transparency in the implementation of its terms…We urge strict and sincere adherence to the agreed terms of the ceasefire, full respect for bilateral agreements, and observance of international law, including the Charters of both the United Nations and ASEAN.”

Cameroon
Mr. Lejeune Mbella Mbella, Minister for Foreign Affairs
25 September 2025

War: “80 years later, as I just pointed out above, it is useful to take stock and learn lessons for the future. The following questions arise: have we achieved this? Have we succeeded in protecting our peoples from the fear of war, protect our peoples from the fear of war, uncertainty about their future, and famine? The current international situation, characterized by numerous crises, gives us a negative and eloquent answer to these questions.”

Armed conflict, nuclear weapons: “In 2025, the global security environment remains unfortunately marked by a multiplication of conflicts and threats of all kinds to human security, including the nuclear threat that we thought belonged to another era.”

Armed conflict, war: “The armed conflicts currently underway around the world are a painful reminder that, 80 years later, we have neither been able nor known how to preserve the world from the scourge of war.”

Artificial intelligence: “The pact for the future and its two annexes, namely the digital pact and the declaration on future generations, call on us to implement them. Similarly, the recent final documents of the Nice and Seville Conferences, as well as the Yaoundé Declaration on the Sustainable Blue Economy in the Gulf of Guinea, once again set out commitments financing and access to technologies, especially in this era of digital technology and artificial intelligence, as decisive factors in promoting sustainable development.”

Canada
Ms. Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs
29 September 2025

War: “Since the end of the Second World War, multilateral institutions have helped to make our world safer and more prosperous. More than a billion people have been lifted out of extreme poverty. Famine and disease have declined. We see shared effort leading to shared prosperity. Yet, today, this multilateral system is under threat, as some countries are turning to protectionism and unilateralism. Around the world, the geopolitical landscape is unstable, with powers shifting in ways that jeopardize our security and prosperity. We face challenges that no country can resolve alone. Let me start with Canada itself, because the strength we demonstrate abroad begins with our resilience at home.”

Artificial Intelligence: “Canada is a proudly bilingual, resilient, dynamic democracy spanning 3 oceans, blessed with natural resources and, above all, defined by the ingenuity of our people: Our scientists are leaders in artificial intelligence and clean technology. Our workers are partnering in the global energy transition. Our entrepreneurs are advancing critical minerals, agriculture, and digital innovation.”

Landmines: “Canada has for a long time been advocating for cooperation, diplomacy, and international law. Whether this be a question of promoting peacekeeping operations of the UN during the Suez crisis or indeed the Ottawa Treaty that prohibits antipersonnel mines, Canada has always been an innovative leader on global issues.”

Militarism: “At its core, our foreign policy rests on 3 pillars: First, defence and security – keeping Canadians safe, strengthening our sovereignty, being good allies and partners in NATO and NORAD, and contributing to global conversations about new technologies that are changing the character of conflict at unprecedented speed.”

Militarism: “Canada will safeguard its sovereignty, modernize NORAD with the United States, bolster NATO with fellow members, and work with Indigenous Peoples to ensure that the Arctic remains a region of peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.”

War: “The challenges of security are not confined to our own borders. Russia 2022 illegal full scale invasion of Ukraine stands as a grave breach of the UN charter. Russia’s aggression, attacks on civilians, and abduction of children are flagrant violations of international law. Three and a half years later, Ukraine still stands—its sovereignty intact, its people unbowed, its courage unbroken. Canada’s position is clear. Putin cannot be permitted to redraw boundaries at his will. Might DOES NOT make right. Ukraine is not backing down—nor will its friends, including Canada. By supporting Ukraine, we are not only defending a nation, we are defending the fundamental principles of sovereignty, dignity and peace, which unite us all. Canada has already committed $22 billion in multifaceted assistance to Ukraine, and it can count on our long-term support. Here at the UN last week, Prime Minister Carney and President Zelensky reaffirmed our shared commitment, which many of you also share, to bring Ukrainian children home.”

Armed conflict, ceasefire: “The October 7th attack by Hamas on Israeli citizens was absolutely horrific. Hamas is a terrorist organization, and an impediment to peace. Canada calls on Hamas to lay down its weapons and to release all remaining hostages immediately. The scope of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is catastrophic and requires urgent action. Canada has committed over $340 million in humanitarian aid and our Canadian armed forces have participated in airdrops. We call on Israel to help protect the civilian population in Gaza, to open land corridors for unimpeded access of humanitarian aid at scale and to ensure that health-care facilities are fully protected. The two-state solution is eroding—as is evident in Israel’s illegal expansion of West Bank settlements. Canada’s recognition of Palestine last week reflects long-standing Canadian policy, based on the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and our commitment to a two-state solution—a future where Israelis and Palestinians live side by side in peace and security. We support partners in the region who continue their efforts to reach a ceasefire as soon as possible and to contribute to the political processes that must follow. Canada will participate in these processes in every way that we can. We are committed to efforts to strengthen the capacity of the Palestinian Authority, working collaboratively with partners in the region.”

Armed violence: “In Haiti, violence is destroying lives and undermining stability. Canada supports the efforts made at the UNSC to create a new mission to tackle violence, stop gang violence, and reestablish governance and open the way for stable democracy and a greater level of regional security.”

Central African Republic
Mr. Faustin Archange Touadera, Head of State
24 September 2025

[Unofficial translation]

War: “Eighty years after the founding of the UN, the world faces an accumulation of unprecedented threats: persistent wars, geopolitical rivalries, the rise of terrorism and organized crime, an unprecedented climate, humanitarian, and food crisis. Never, since the Cold War, have we seen such fragility. In Europe, the war in Ukraine continues to cause immense human suffering and to undermine global stability. In the Middle East, the persistent violence between Israel and Palestine plunges entire generations into pain and compromises hopes for peaceful coexistence. In Africa, the crises in Sudan, in the East of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in the Sahel, and in the Horn of Africa remind us of the fragility of balances and the urgency of increased support for the prevention and peaceful resolution of disputes.

“In the face of these dramatic situations, the Central African Republic proposes strengthening the mechanisms of UN preventive diplomacy by creating a global conflict prevention fund financed by major powers and managed transparently. This fund should allow for financing, from the first signs of crisis, good offices missions, international mediations, and the deployment of rapid and credible peacekeeping forces. Likewise, we need to systematize the creation of regional coalitions of mediators capable of acting in complement to the United Nations to prevent local disputes from turning into open wars.

“If we want to measure the gravity of the moment, let us particularly look at Africa. In 2025, more than 40% of armed conflicts in the world will take place on this continent. The Sahel alone concentrates thousands of victims each year and millions of displaced persons. One single figure is enough to summarize the urgency: in certain African regions, one in two children lives in an area affected by conflict. How can we talk about the future when half of a generation is threatened by war?”

Armed conflict: “To mitigate the harmful effects of climate change, we call for an integrated African mechanism for food and climate security, supported by the UN, to reduce the link between resource scarcity and conflicts.”

Armed conflict: “In the face of conflicts and humanitarian crises that have put our world to the test, we must collectively remind ourselves of the normative strength of the Charter of the United Nations, this founding text that, in 1945, carried the hope of a world freed from the scourge of war. But today, 80 years later, the question arises: is the UN still capable of fulfilling this mission? The multiplication of conflicts, the fragmentation of the world into antagonistic blocs, the abusive use of the veto power, and the paralysis of the Security Council give us the impression of an Organization at the end of its rope. Yet, it is not the UN that is tired: it is the member states that, lacking political will, block its action.”

Armed conflict: “I salute and encourage the constant efforts of the international community to promote peaceful solutions to the various conflicts. For every day that passes prolongs the agony of innocents and weakens global peace.

“In Africa, notably in Sudan, unresolved conflicts tear apart a brotherly people and risk transforming our continent into a mosaic of fragmented states, unable to ensure stability or meet the needs of their citizens. This perspective is unacceptable. Africa calls for urgent mobilization, not to further militarize our territories, but to invest in peace, mediation, and inclusive dialogue. That is why my country supports the QUAD Declaration, initiated by Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States of America regarding the restoration of peace and security in Sudan.”

Armed conflict, weapons: “In my own country, the Central African Republic, we have chosen this path of dialogue. The policy of the outstretched hand has allowed, through reconciliation and restored trust, the self-dissolution of almost all armed groups. This choice was not the easiest: it would have been simpler to yield to the logic of weapons, but we preferred the boldness of forgiveness, the patience of dialogue, and the strength of consensus. Our experience shows that it is possible to substitute the cycle of hatred with a dynamic of lasting peace. The Central African Republic, once considered a theater of violence, is today an example that it is possible to extend a hand and receive in return not war, but peace. Thanks to the regained peace, we are today preparing, in complete serenity, for the general elections of December 2025, which we want to be democratic, inclusive, and transparent, to consolidate the democratic anchoring of the country initiated since 2016. We propose that this model be studied and reinforced as a good African practice within the framework of the United Nations and the African Union. This good practice requires courageous political acts: reforming the UN, reforming the global financial architecture, creating a global prevention fund, strengthening the role of regional organizations, mobilizing the great powers not to divide but to unite.”

Armed conflict, armed violence: “Firstly, inclusive development is a weapon of prevention. Where there is exclusion, poverty, and injustice, anger settles, resentments accumulate, and conflicts erupt. But where we invest in education, health, and employment, it is the seeds of peace that grow. An open school is not just filled benches of students; it is a society that chooses the future rather than violence. A job created is not just an income; it is a dignity preserved and a family that believes again in peace.”

Armed conflict: “First, we need to imagine a global initiative for the reconstruction of fragile states. Because a world that leaves some of its members broken cannot claim universal peace. The nations wounded by conflicts must no longer remain alone to heal their wounds. They need an international community that lifts them up, supports them, and restores their confidence. Investing in institutional reconstruction is to refuse the endless cycle of war and despair.”

Chad
Mr. Allah-Maye Halina, Prime Minister
25 September 2025

Armed conflict: “Despite the undeniable progress noted above, it must be said that the UN has never been so disappointing, particularly because of its inability to stop the deadly conflicts that continue to rage in many parts of the world.”

Armed conflict: “We must have the courage to say it here, without mincing words: UN peacekeeping missions have sometimes failed to live up to their promises and their duty. Whether in Haiti, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Mali, peacekeepers have, in some cases, been accused of inaction or even of behavior contrary to the principles of the Organization they embody. How can we understand that, instead of protecting, some have been complicit in violations? How can we explain that after decades of presence, conflicts persist and even worsen? These failures, sometimes tragic, erode the legitimacy of the UN on the ground and in people's hearts. It is imperative that peacekeeping operations be thoroughly reformed, evaluated transparently, and refocused on their fundamental mission: to protect civilian populations.”

War, explosive weapons: “For more than seven decades, the world has been helplessly witnessing a human and political tragedy. I am referring to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The current situation in Gaza, marked by indiscriminate bombing, thousands of civilian deaths, and the systematic destruction of vital infrastructure, constitutes a collective failure on the part of the international community. This is no longer a “conflict”; it is a humanitarian scandal and an unprecedented moral challenge.

“The latent war between Israel and Iran, regional tensions, and the UN's inability to impose a lasting solution jeopardize not only stability in the Middle East, but above all, world peace. Until justice prevails in Jerusalem and Gaza, there will be no peace of mind here in New York. As long as international law is flouted in Palestine, it will be weakened everywhere else.

“As we have done every year for decades, we call for the effective recognition of the Palestinian State within the 1967 borders; the immediate end to illegal settlements; and a political solution guaranteeing the coexistence of two viable, free, and secure States. In this regard, my country welcomes the adoption by a very large majority of the New York Declaration on Palestine of September 12, 2025, which constitutes a historic step forward and a major milestone in the quest for a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in the Middle East. Our collective duty from this moment on is to translate this strong declaration into concrete action and make the hopes of the Palestinian people a reality.”

War: “Chad, a country with a turbulent political history, living in a subregional environment marked by crises, conflicts, and wars, and constantly exposed to the risks of these scourges, has emerged from this transition with its head held high.”

Ceasefire, armed conflict, weapons: “On the military front, the continuation of hostilities in Sudan will only prolong the suffering of the Sudanese civilian population and aggravate the humanitarian situation both in the combat zones and in neighboring countries, such as Chad, which continue to see an influx of new refugees every day. Chad regrets that the numerous calls for a ceasefire have not been heeded and urges the parties to immediately cease hostilities, facilitate humanitarian access, and resume political dialogue. We are convinced that the current crisis in Sudan cannot be resolved by force of arms, but rather through peaceful means, via an inclusive inter-Sudanese dialogue aimed at achieving lasting peace.

“Chad, which maintains a position of strict and consistent neutrality in the ongoing conflict in Sudan and has always supported all peace efforts in that country, reaffirms its commitment to peace in Sudan and its willingness to contribute to any initiative aimed at promoting dialogue between the parties to end this war, which has lasted far too long. With regard to the situation in the sister Central African Republic, Chad welcomes the positive momentum towards peace, the strengthening of national reconciliation, and the socio-economic progress underway in that brotherly and neighboring country.”

Chile
Mr. Gabriel Boric Font, President
23 September 2025

Armed conflict: “Gaza is a global crisis because it is a crisis of humanity. And in this room, and those listening to us in their homes, in their delegations, in their various countries, we are, precisely, all human beings. That is why, when children lie beneath the rubble, there is genuine pain in our homeland, in Chile; and I know that this pain is shared by the vast majority of countries in the world.One of the problems we face as humanity is that pain often breeds hatred. But we must face it and fight hatred with all our strength. We must transform the desire to hate into a desire for justice, and make no concessions to violence. I do not want to see Netanyahu destroyed by a missile along with his family; I want to see Netanyahu and those responsible for the genocide against the Palestinian people brought before an international court of justice.”

War: “In another context, the war in Ukraine also disturbs us. But, some may ask, what does what is happening in a country so far away and whose language we do not understand have to do with Chile? Some criticize us with these arguments in our homeland. We respond that we have just as much to do with the Palestinian mother who was shot dead while looking for food. Or with the Ukrainian boy or girl kidnapped today in Russia. Again, it has to do with the fact that we are all human beings.”

Nuclear weapons, explosive weapons, weapons of mass destruction, militarism: “One of the reasons we are gathered here, perhaps the main one, is that we continue to have faith in humanity. Our hearts cannot, we cannot allow them to stop being moved by pain, by the needs of others like us. That is precisely why we have established rules, rules that are civilizational advances resulting from lessons learned from the greatest tragedies we have faced as humanity. And those rules, it must be said from this platform and acted upon from this instance, are not being respected today. Because let us say it loud and clear: it is not right to invite a neutral country to negotiate and then assassinate your counterpart, violating that country's sovereignty, as was done in Doha, Qatar. It is not right to bomb a country's nuclear facilities, just as it was not right yesterday to invade Iraq on the grounds of weapons of mass destruction that did not exist. It is not right to invade a sovereign country like Ukraine and then impose negotiations on a fait accompli and expect us all to simply resign ourselves to it.”

China
Mr. Li Qiang, Premier of the State Council
26 September 2025

War: “An important outcome of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, the U.N. was born out of a deep reflection on the scourge of two world wars.”

War: "First, peace and development are the strongest aspirations shared by the people of all countries. Throughout history, while the shadows of war and conflict have never fully gone away, no force has ever stopped humanity in its quest for peace and development. Having gone through two world wars, we must never forget the bitter lessons learned through bloodshed and loss of lives. For 80 years, a generally peaceful international environment has led to remarkable growth in the global economy. Today, as the desire for peace and development grows even stronger around the world, it is incumbent upon our generation to further strengthen the force for peace and development.”

War: “Second, solidarity and cooperation are the most powerful drivers for human progress. In the ferocious years of the World Anti-Fascist War, countries with different social systems, histories and cultures rose above their differences, fought side by side, and prevailed together. In the 80 years that followed, they weathered a succession of vicissitudes, such as the Cold War standoff, financial crises, and global pandemics, by staying connected and working together. All this proves a simple yet powerful point -- solidarity lifts everyone up, while division drags all down. The road ahead might be hard and bumpy, but when all countries unite as one and collaborate in good faith, our strengths will converge into a mighty force with which we can withstand any headwind and cross any hurdle.”

War: “Every moment of historical reflection is an opportunity for us to recalibrate our direction and avoid going astray. At present, the world has entered a new period of turbulence and transformation. Unilateralism and Cold War mentality are resurfacing, the international rules and order built over the past 80 years are under serious challenge, and the once-effective international system is constantly disrupted. The various problems induced are distressing and worrying. Humanity has once again come to a crossroads … We Chinese people often say, "Never forget why you started, and you can accomplish your mission." Arriving at the U.N. headquarters this time, I saw over 190 national flags lined up in front of the building and fluttering in the breeze; I saw the sculptures "Let Us Beat Swords into Ploughshares" and "Non-Violence" with their time-tested message ever so loud; and I saw staff members from different regions, of different races and with different skin colors working in collaboration for the common goals of humanity. What I saw got me thinking: Those people, objects and scenes that embody peace, progress and development are exactly why we choose to commemorate victory. They are also what inspires us to forge ahead hand in hand. While we may not be able to go back in time and relive the victory, we can definitely create a better future together.”

Artificial intelligence: “China has encouraged the sharing of cutting-edge technologies, such as 5G and AI, and engaged in joint efforts to foster new drivers of economic growth.”

Artificial intelligence: “Fourth, amid emerging challenges, we must respond with concerted efforts and protect our shared home. Climate change is a major challenge confronting all of us. We should uphold the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, promote the effective implementation of the Paris Agreement, and enhance international collaboration on the green economy. In recent years, technologies such as AI, network communications, and biomanufacturing have advanced rapidly. Along with the benefits, they also bring potential risks. We should adhere to the principles of people-centered development, technology for good and equitable benefits, improve relevant governance rules at a faster pace and strengthen global governance cooperation, so that technological progress could bring real benefits to humanity in a better way.”

“China has always been a responsible stakeholder in addressing global challenges. Committed to green and low-carbon development, China has established the world's largest and fastest-growing renewable energy system, and built the most extensive and complete new energy industrial chain. Two days ago, at the United Nations Climate Summit, President Xi Jinping solemnly announced China's 2035 Nationally Determined Contributions that cover all economic sectors and all greenhouse gases. This is another major step taken by China in responding to global climate change. China is dedicated to deepening cooperation with other countries in areas such as cybersecurity, biosecurity and outer space. China has proposed the Global Al Governance Initiative and advocated the establishment of a World AI Cooperation Organization. This time during the 80th session, China will present to the U.N. the lunar soil samples collected by Chang'e-6 from the far side of the moon. Going forward, China will take more proactive actions and work with all parties to advance global governance in relevant areas.”

Colombia
Mr. Gustavo Petro Urrego, President
23 September 2025

Armed conflict, bombs, missiles: “Mr. President of the Assembly, this is my last speech as President here. It is already my fourth. In my first speech, I announced to the Assembly that it was very possible that a conflict would break out next to Ukraine in Palestine. I called for a peace conference. Those of us who do not have bombs or large budgets are not heard here, but four years later, today, the horrific situation in Palestine led me to think that the same, or almost the same, could happen in the Colombian Caribbean, when missiles are fired at unarmed young people at sea.

“So now we are facing a different situation, perhaps a more global one. Today, barbarism is global; today, it falls upon all of humanity. Missiles are fired at 17 unarmed young people in the waters of the Caribbean Sea, some of whom may be Colombian. Millions of migrants are persecuted, imprisoned, chained and expelled. Missiles fall on 70,000 people in Gaza, killing them.”

Missiles: “They say that the missiles in the Caribbean were to stop drugs. That's a lie. Here, in this very place, in 2023 and 2024, more cocaine was seized than ever before, and more than 700 drug lords were extradited to the United States and Europe. I extradited them, and my government seized the cocaine. And we did not fire a single missile or kill a single young person. Over the years, I have proven that it is more effective to voluntarily replace coca leaf crops than to forcibly eradicate them with glyphosate and force against Colombia's poor farmers. I have replaced the failed and violent war on drugs with an effective anti-drug trafficking policy, which is different from confusing the dead substance with the greedy person. But they need violence to dominate Colombia and Latin America. They need to destroy dialogue and impose and launch killer missiles on poor young people in the Caribbean. Anti-drug policy is not about stopping cocaine from reaching the United States. Anti-drug policy is designed to dominate the peoples of the South in general. It does not focus on drugs, but rather on power and domination. That is why I am speaking to you as a president who has been deposed by President Trump himself, without him having any right to do so, either human or divine, and without any sound reasoning.”

Missiles: “The young people killed by missiles in the Caribbean were not from the Aragua train, whose name perhaps no one here knows, nor from Hamas; they were Caribbean, possibly Colombian. And if they were Colombian, with apologies to those who dominate the United Nations, criminal proceedings must be brought against those officials from the United States, including the senior official who gave the order, President Trump, who allowed the missiles to be fired at young people who simply wanted to escape poverty. Young people in a boat, even if they had an illicit cargo, were not drug traffickers; they were simply poor young people from Latin America who had no other option.

“Drug traffickers live elsewhere, and it is not in Latin America. Trump launches missiles at unarmed migrant boats and accuses them of being drug traffickers and terrorists without them having a single weapon to defend themselves. When drug traffickers live in New York, right here, a few blocks away, and in Miami, and make deals with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which allows them to traffic in Africa, Europe, Russia or China, but not in the United States, a country that is halting the growth of cocaine consumption without reducing it, simply because its sick drug addicts have turned to consuming the deadly drug of humanity's counterculture in times of extinction due to the climate crisis: fentanyl.”

Missiles: “Trump not only allows missiles to be dropped on young people in the Caribbean, not only imprisons and chains migrants, but also allows missiles to be fired at young children, women and the elderly in Gaza. He is complicit in genocide, because it is genocide and we must shout it out again and again.”

Wars, missiles: “Migration is nothing more than the result of the impoverishment of the poorest countries due to unpayable and greedy debt. Migration is nothing more than the consequence of wars and invasions for oil unleashed by the United States and Atán's Europe. Migration is nothing more than the consequence of the climate crisis that is leading to collapse and leaving the tropical lands without water because the increase in heat is evaporating this vital liquid. The solution to migration is no different from chains, prisons and missiles. There is no superior race, gentlemen. There is no chosen people of God. Neither the United States nor Israel is. Ignorant fundamentalists on the far right think that way. God's chosen people are all of humanity.”

Missiles, explosive weapons, militarism: “Diplomacy has already played its part, gentlemen, in the case of Gaza. It could not solve the problem. It is not true, and I apologise, Macron, that we can insist and insist on talking and talking when every second a missile falls and destroys the bodies of innocent babies, baby boys and baby girls in the Arab country of Palestine. Every day of vetoed emotions in the UN Security Council, every day that passes, more children are bombed, more bombs are dropped, more people are killed. Those who veto are not mothers, not fathers, not alive, perhaps coming from dark forces, robots because they do not have the heart to veto. Genocide must be stopped with what follows diplomacy.

“It is with a vote in the United Nations Assembly, rather than a vote in the Security Council, which has veto power. It is with a United for Peace for Palestine, forming an armed force to defend the lives of the Palestinian people. Words and weapons are needed today. Not blue helmets, untrained and sometimes unwilling to do what is necessary. It is a powerful army of countries that do not accept genocide. That is why I invite the nations of the world and their peoples above all, as part of humanity, to unite armies and weapons. Palestine must be liberated. I invite the armies of Asia, of the Slavic peoples who so heroically defeated Hitler, the Latin American armies of Bolívar, of Garibaldi, who also had one in Italy, of Martí, of Artigas, of Santa Cruz. Words are superfluous at this hour of Bolívar's sword of liberty or death, because they are not only going to bomb Gaza, not only the Caribbean, as they are already doing, but also humanity that cries out for freedom, because from Washington and NATO they are killing democracy and reviving tyranny and totalitarianism on a global scale.

“We must raise the red and black flag of liberty or death that Bolívar raised, without forgetting the white colour that he raised alongside the red and black, the colour of peace as hope for life on earth and in the hearts of humanity. The United States no longer teaches democracy but kills it in its migrants and its greed. The United States teaches tyranny.

“The UN must begin its change by stopping the genocide in Gaza with the effectiveness of a world salvation army, voted on by the United Nations Assembly and without veto. After saving Gaza, we will move on to the plan to decarbonise the planet's economy, so that it is democratically constructed on a global scale and establishes global democracy. The body that monitors its rapid implementation will be the Security Council, but without vetoes, and it will be binding on the WTO, the World Bank, the IMF and the private financial system, given the great capacity of the national and global financial system to centralise capital. It is from there that humanity can regulate capital to subordinate it to life and humanity, a capital that is regulated and subordinated to life and people.”

Comoros
Mr. Azali Assoumani, President
24 September 2025

Armed conflict, explosive weapons: “However, with five years to go before this deadline, it is clear that the world is neither fairer, nor more peaceful, nor more equitable. On the contrary, inequalities are growing, conflicts are multiplying, and humanity is moving further away from the vision that inspired us. The Palestinian tragedy is the most damning testimony to this. For more than 70 years, and today even more than yesterday, the Palestinian people have endured the dispossession of their ancestral land, exile, torture, and humiliation. Their recent history is nothing but a succession of pages written in blood, indifference, and contempt. Faced with this tragedy, rightly described as genocide by many experts, the international community too often limits itself to verbal condemnation without concrete action. We rightly condemned the terrorist acts of October 7, but the disproportionate response that has been taking place in Gaza since then is tantamount to genocide, with 80% of the victims being children, the elderly, and the sick, killed by bombings that spare neither hospitals nor aid distribution centers, nor UN personnel or journalists.”

War: “Indeed, how can a government, born of a people who were victims of the Holocaust, commit genocide in full view of the entire world and now impose similar traumas of war, exile, and oppression on others? How can Israel, moreover, attack everyone and be in deadly conflict with all its neighbors? As the old saying goes, you cannot choose your neighbors. We cannot fail to acknowledge and salute the courage and humanism of those Israelis who raise their voices against barbarism. And as history reminds us, in the face of the tragedy of the Holocaust, Arab, African, and Muslim countries have never sided with the perpetrators of genocide. On the contrary, our ancestors sided with the Allies to defend the Jewish people, at the risk of their own lives.”

Armed conflict: “We welcome France's historic decision and pay tribute to President Macron and the leaders of many other countries who recognized the “State of Palestine” on Monday, September 23, from this UN podium …We call on this Assembly to irreversibly place the future of the Palestinian State at the heart of our common agenda. It is our moral responsibility to act, because every day that passes without action results in the deaths of thousands of innocent women and children. No one can say, “I didn't know.” History is an implacable judge that will forgive neither silence nor inaction.”

Small arms and light weapons: “ During my presidency of the African Union, I made conflict resolution and mediation a priority in order to realize the ambition of “silencing the guns.” This commitment is key to the effective implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, a pillar of a strong Africa in the concert of nations.”

Nuclear weapons, military bases: “In the same vein, I would like to recall the 1971 resolution declaring the Indian Ocean a “zone of peace, free of nuclear weapons and military bases.” Yet even today, conflicting ambitions threaten this stability. I therefore strongly condemn any plans to establish a military naval base in Mayotte, a Comorian island that unfortunately remains under French administration.”

Congo
Mr. Denis Sassou Nguesso, President
24 September 2025

Armed conflict, war: “Unfortunately, 80 years after its creation, our Organization is facing a worrying resurgence of armed conflicts around the world. In so many places, the language of weapons has prevailed over common sense and diplomacy. This is a failure of our collective promise: to build a world free from the scourge of war. It is also a sign of an international system that is weakened, and at times powerless, in the face of confrontation.”

War: “That is why, in the Middle East, my country unreservedly supports the two-state solution, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace.”

Artificial intelligence: “That is why we must invest massively in education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, new technologies, artificial intelligence, etc.”

Military spending, arms race: “At a time when the nations of the world are facing serious challenges, some of which clearly have existential implications, a new and worrying arms race is beginning! Global military spending is now reaching record levels, even as millions of human beings live in extreme poverty, with limited access to clean water, quality education, and basic healthcare.”

Disarmament, weapons of mass destruction, nuclear weapons: “Disarmament treaties are being called into question, while the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, particularly nuclear weapons, is once again at the forefront of concerns. This drift is dangerous in every respect. It does not make our world safer. On the contrary, it exposes it to the most serious dangers, including the risk of a widespread conflagration that would spiral out of control.”

Disarmament: “True to its commitment to peace and international security, the Republic of Congo reiterates its call for global disarmament. The time has come for us all to invest in finding solutions that strengthen our collective security, stability, and prosperity for all peoples, rather than feeding the vicious and destructive cycle of conflict and violence.”

War: “We are not condemned to war, withdrawal, and mistrust. We still have a choice: that of courage, solidarity, and responsibility.”

Costa Rica
Mr. Arnoldo Ricardo André Tinoco, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Worship
24 September 2025

War, nuclear weapons, artificial intelligence: “Eight decades ago, we embarked on the journey to San Francisco to save humanity from the abyss of war…. Today, however, this mission faces three significant challenges: nuclear weapons, the triple planetary crisis, and the governance of artificial intelligence.”

Nuclear weapons: “In the same year we founded this Organization, humanity crossed a threshold when Hiroshima and Nagasaki were reduced to ruins in an instant by atomic bombings. Today, the risk of nuclear conflict is the highest it has been in decades. Trust is eroding. Geopolitical tensions are widening. The shadow of the use of nuclear weapons looms once again.

“Nuclear weapons are once again being considered by their possessors as central to national security strategies and are wielded as tools of coercion.

“Any nuclear detonation, whether intentional or accidental, would have irreversible humanitarian and environmental consequences. There is no possible humanitarian response. There is no margin for error.

“55 years after the entry into force of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, and looking ahead to its 2026 Review Conference, nuclear-weapon States will have a new opportunity to reaffirm their adherence to the Treaty and to the obligations and commitments they have undertaken as States parties, particularly Article VI.

“We also urge you to recognize that the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) strengthens and complements the NPT, and that it represents a decisive step toward fulfilling the very first resolution adopted by this Assembly and an essential element of the nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation regime. Costa Rica reaffirms that the only effective guarantee against the risks of nuclear weapons is their complete, verifiable, and irreversible elimination.”

Military spending, weapons, armed conflict: “At a time when military spending has reached its highest level since the Cold War, behind every dollar spent on weapons—on all weapons—we see a political choice that privileges force over dialogue, weakens trust in multilateral institutions, and contradicts the spirit of the Charter.

“And this, precisely when we are facing the greatest humanitarian crisis of our time, with more than 300 million people in urgent need of assistance. Sudan, Gaza, and Ukraine are clear examples. Only 190 million people will receive aid. 115 million will have to wait, if life grants them the time. This is not a lack of resources, but of will. The means exist, but priorities lie elsewhere. We cannot ignore that humanitarian assistance, however vital it may be, is also the bill we pay for failing to act in prevention. The consequences of arriving too late, far too late, are reflected in every refugee camp, every food distribution, and every field hospital.”

Artificial intelligence: “Time is also running out to close the digital divide and confront a technological revolution driven by artificial intelligence that is advancing at high speed. Artificial intelligence can strengthen our national economies and our collective efforts to achieve development. It can optimize resources, accelerate medical research, and democratize access to knowledge. But it can also divide us—between those who have access and those who do not. Artificial Intelligence also poses risks to international peace and security. It can become a vector of mass disinformation and enable cyberattacks that paralyze critical infrastructure.”

Autonomous weapons, artificial intelligence: “It also challenges our ability to maintain meaningful human control over life-or-death decisions, as military automation advances without adequate regulatory frameworks. Establishing such frameworks is urgent, and time is running out. One application of AI that deserves special attention is autonomous weapons systems. Costa Rica urges the conclusion, before 2026, of a legally binding instrument that establishes prohibitions and regulations for autonomous weapons systems capable of identifying, selecting, and attacking targets without meaningful human control. No algorithm should ever make life-or-death decisions.”

Artificial intelligence: “In light of the risks and opportunities posed by artificial intelligence, together with Spain, led the process that established the Independent International Scientific Panel and the Global Dialogue on AI Governance, to be launched tomorrow. Its adoption by consensus is a milestone in itself.”

Explosive weapons: “Faced with the grave humanitarian consequences of explosive weapons in populated areas, will host the Second International Conference on the Political Declaration on Strengthening the Protection of Civilians, to be held in San José from 18–20 November.”

Côte d’Ivoire
Mr. Léon Adom, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Integration and Ivorians Abroad
26 September 2025

War, armed conflict, nuclear weapons, biological weapons, chemical weapons: “Ever since it was established in 1945, the United Nations, propelled by the faith of its member states in multilateralism and international solidarity, as well as their determination to build a better world than that that was bequeathed to them by the Second World War. Well, the organization has managed to make great progress in discharging its a mandate against its backdrop. The United Nations shaped the fates of many people in countries by contributing to them acceding to independence and international sovereignty. The United Nations also went to great lengths, to, for eight decades now, to shield our planet from any new global conflict, as well as from any recourse to a nuclear weapons. My country applauds the essential action and the crucial role of the United Nations and regional partners, as regards the prevention and peaceful settlement of disputes, as well as the deployment of peacekeeping and peace buildinging operations. In a similar facial fashion, Cote D’Ivoire welcomes the fact that it has been able to contribute to various UN missions over the last few years. We are also proud to be a party to most chemical, biological, and nuclear ban and elimination treaties. At a time, when conflicts and disputes have not evated, the United Nations have constantly been the best framework for our common efforts aimed at peace and security.”

Artificial intelligence: “Regarding the latter [artificial intelligence], a source of many hopes and fears, Cote D’Ivoire welcomes the adoption of the pact for the future and the annexes there too, as well as the global digital compact regulating the use of artificial intelligence, AI. We call for the adoption of binding universal standards, so as to regulate the use of AI and digital technologies to ensure that it is used to achieve development for the benefit of all.”  

Croatia
Mr. Zoran Milanović, President
24 September 2025

Armed conflict: “Armed conflicts are more numerous than at any time since the Second World War. They are multiplying and intensifying, overwhelming humanitarian systems and eroding trust in our capacity to prevent or resolve crises. In Ukraine, we hope the senseless loss of human lives will end as soon as possible. We welcome recent diplomatic efforts and encourage inclusive dialogue that can restore peace. Beyond Europe, other regions face devastating crises. In Gaza, tens of thousands of women and children have been killed. Millions live without safety, food, medicine, and basic human dignity. This is worse than a mere war - it is carnage and we urgently call for it to end, for safe delivery of aid—especially to children—and for the release of all hostages. Lasting peace can only come through the universal recognition of the legitimate political aspirations of the Palestinian people, long denied. The suffering in less visible crises is no less real. In Sudan, one of the gravest humanitarian catastrophes of the 21st century is unfolding before our eyes.”

Armed conflict: “UN peacekeeping must adapt to today’s conflicts. Missions must be flexible, realistic, and sequenced toward achievable goals. This requires the Security Council to focus on political solutions and remain committed to sustaining peace long after missions withdraw.”

Armed conflict: “Peace is more than silencing the guns. It requires preventing new wars and breaking the cycles of violence from the past. Lasting peace rests on democracy, legitimate governance, and full respect for the right of each people to freely choose their leaders.”

“In Croatia, decades after the Homeland War, families still search for 1,744 missing loved ones. As co-chair of the Global Alliance for the Missing, Croatia draws on its painful experience to raise global visibility of this issue, share good practices, and strengthen cooperation. Survivor-centred justice is enshrined in our laws, and we encourage others to follow this path. We also share the Croatian model for searching for the missing. It rests on effective interdepartmental cooperation and a comprehensive, transparent approach without discrimination, consistent with the highest international standards. With this in mind, Croatia is proud to host later today a high-level side event on missing persons in armed conflict, dedicated to advancing the search for answers.”

Landmines: “Another legacy of the Homeland War is the issue of landmines. Croatia has been active in promoting the Human Rights Council’s first resolution on landmines, adopted by consensus on April 4th, International Mine Action Day. The resolution reaffirms the treaty banning anti-personnel mines and sends a clear message: the needless cruelty of these weapons violates basic human rights.”

“Croatia’s contributions to development cooperation and humanitarian aid continue to grow. Since 2011, we have steadily increased our support, reaching record levels in 2023. We share lessons from our own recovery—from democratic transition to mine action and veteran reintegration. In Ukraine, our expertise in humanitarian demining is particularly valued, making us one of the leading contributors relative to GDP.”

Arms control, artificial intelligence, cyber, drones, outer space: “Emerging technologies are reshaping every aspect of society—how we live, how we trade, and how we defend ourselves. Drones are a clear example. They did not only increase the lethality of war. They changed its economics. They showed us that assumptions we held only a decade ago about defense and deterrence are already outdated. This disruption brings danger, but also opportunity. New tools can be misused by hostile actors, spreading instability and lowering the threshold for conflict. But the same tools, used responsibly, can strengthen our defenses, improve disaster response, and drive economic growth. Artificial intelligence, cyber capabilities, space technologies, robotics—each can be a threat, or a solution. The choice is ours. We need to rethink security, not only nationally, but globally. Rules, safeguards, and cooperation must keep pace with innovation. If they do not, we risk instability. But if they do, these technologies can become engines of resilience and stability. The task is urgent. The world must act with clarity, not hesitation. Emerging technologies are not tomorrow’s challenge. They are today’s reality. And how we choose to guide them will define not just the future of defense, but the future of peace.”

Cuba
Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2025

War, militarism: “As we deliberate here, 2.2 million human beings in Gaza are doomed to starve due to the acts of genocide, extermination and ethnic cleansing of the Zionist regime, which counts on the military and financial supplies and the impunity guaranteed by the United States government.

“On behalf of the government and the people of Cuba, I reiterate the strongest possible solidarity with the Palestinian people and their just cause in favor of freedom, independence and the end of the Zionist occupation. If the Security Council is rendered impotent due to the veto exercised or threatened to be exercised by the United States, and is therefore unable to adopt effective measures to end such barbarity, this General Assembly has the duty and the capacity to promote concrete measures without further delay. It should at least unequivocally declare the right of Palestine to be a member of the United Nations, within the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital and the right to the return of refugees.”

Militarism: “Let us all hope for a new civilized coexistence, in which solidarity, international cooperation and the peaceful settlement of disputes prevail, as alternatives to war, the use of force, aggressions and occupation; as opposed to aspirations for unipolar domination and hegemonism; an order without blockades or unilateral coercive measures, based on multilateralism and with full respect for the United Nations Charter and International Law.

Militarism: “It is imperative to reject the threatening proposal of a new doctrine called "peace through strength," which means to impose on all of us the arbitrary will of the US imperialism by resorting to the use of threats, coercion and aggression.”

War, militarism, nuclear submarines: “The threat of war looms large today over the Caribbean Sea, with an extraordinary and absolutely unjustified naval and air buildup, with landing and assault ships and nuclear submarines. The United States uses the pretext of combating crime and drug trafficking, a story that no one believes.

“The attack and destruction of unregistered or unchartered course speedboats; the extrajudicial murder or execution of civilians; the interdiction of fishing vessels or boats and the aggressive actions of the United States create a dangerous situation that violates International Law and threatens regional peace and security.

“We reaffirm our support to the Bolivarian government of Venezuela and the Popular and Military union led by President Nicolás Maduro Moros, and our strong rejection of the threats of aggression against this sister Latin American and Caribbean nation.

“We reject the Monroe Doctrine as well as any attempt of militarization, intervention or imperialist domination in Latin America and the Caribbean, declared as a Zone of Peace in January 2014 in Havana, the proclamation of which was signed by the Heads of State and Government of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States.”

Military spending, arms race: “The accelerated arms race involves a competition in the realm of death and destruction, with the use of extraordinary financial and material resources that could be used for mitigating poverty, promote development and cooperation. Meanwhile, most of the meager goals of the 2030 Agenda will not be met; Official Development Assistance commitments are ignored; and funding for combating climate change is declining. In 1960, before this very Assembly, the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution warned, and I quote: "Let the philosophy of dispossession disappear, and the philosophy of war will have disappeared."

War: “The aggression against Cuba is being reinforced by a powerful destabilization machine that, from the US territory and financed by that country's federal budget, imposes an offensive aimed at disrupting public peace, promoting acts of violence, misleading the population and discrediting our country. This is an unconventional warfare strategy that combines emotional manipulation with information poisoning to impose a climate of hopelessness and political demobilization.”

Artificial Intelligence: “We suffer the consequences of a powerful cultural domination in which digital technology impacts our lives in an increasingly accelerated and comprehensive way. A few transnational corporations impose their operating systems and control the contents that we see, read and listen to and shape our behavior. We suffer a dictatorship of algorithms.”

Militarism, nuclear weapons: “We oppose the aggressive military and nuclear doctrines of NATO.”

Cyprus
Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, President
24 September 2025

Artificial intelligence, weapons: “The use of new means of warfare is rising, without even the most basic safeguards in place. Global security is constantly undermined. At the same time, we are faced with the challenge of the uncontrolled expansion of technology and AI, threatening our security, and the well-being of our children.”

War: “Following the barbaric Hamas terrorist attack of October 7th, and the subsequent war that has led to a humanitarian tragedy in Gaza, Cyprus assumed, yet again, its moral responsibility to its region. We did so through the development of the Amalthea maritime corridor for the delivery of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population in Gaza.”

Armed conflict, ceasefire: “Let me be clear: there are no substitutes for peace. This war, must end. A first necessary step is the immediate ceasefire in Gaza and I hope that President Trump’s initiative has a positive outcome. At the same time, the humanitarian catastrophe must be alleviated. This means, unhindered flow of aid in Gaza. The displacement must also end. International humanitarian law must be respected. We call with the same fervour for the immediate release of all hostages. And, as unreachable as it may seem at this moment, we must not lose sight of the path for peace. For a two-state solution in line with UN Security Council Resolutions. We have a Responsibility to continue our work for a future in which Israel and Palestine live side by side in conditions of lasting security and peace. And, we must be clear and unequivocal that Hamas, a terrorist organisation, has no place in such a future.”

Armed conflict: “In 2022 Russia invaded a sovereign nation, Ukraine, violating the UN Charter. In 1974, Turkey invaded a sovereign nation, Cyprus, violating the UN Charter. The violation is equal. The suffering. The invasion and occupation. Cyprus is under occupation by Turkey for 51 years. Tens of thousands displaced. Women raped. Destruction of cultural and religious heritage.”

Czechia
Mr. Petr Pavel, President
24 September 2025

Weapons: “The UN remains the only institution where the world can collectively confront global crises. Not with weapons, but with dialogue, shared responsibility and pressure where necessary. UN’s greatest achievement is not perfection, but its persistence.”

Armed conflict, explosive weapons, cyber: “With many devastating conflicts ongoing, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has significantly transformed the global security landscape. Since the last General Debate a year ago, our world has not become more secure. On the contrary. In the game of smoke and mirrors, Russia continues targeting civilians, civilian infrastructure, foreign diplomatic missions and most recently, even our neighbouring country, Poland. Not to forget the acts of hybrid warfare on our own territory. These range from disinformation campaigns and attempts to undermine public trust to cyber-attacks – and even acts of sabotage carried out by mercenaries recruited online.”

War: “The consequences of this war go far beyond the news headlines. This war threatens to dismantle our system of governance based on mutual respect, equal partnership and rules we all subscribed to. What is happening in Europe today could happen anywhere else tomorrow - under different circumstances, but under the exact same pretext. If Russia wins this unjust war, it will legitimise the triumph of brute force. Turning a blind eye to Ukraine today is a green light to any future aggressor, anywhere in the world. Disruptions of the status quo in the Taiwan Strait or elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific would further destabilize global security and trade. Geographical distance offers no protection security in one part of the world is directly linked to security everywhere. Tolerating the principle of might makes right will lead to the end of multilateralism and the beginning of life under principles dictated by a powerful few.”

War: “To achieve sustainable peace, we, democratic allies from all over the world, must act in unity and intensify our economic pressure on Russia. This is the only way to bring the aggressor to the negotiating table. Such peace - based on the existing international law, including territorial integrity and the right for self-determination - is in the interest of not only European countries, but of the whole international community. Any future peace agreement must send a clear message worldwide that aggressor cannot be rewarded and borders cannot be changed by force!”

Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
Mr. Kim Son Gyong, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2025

War: “We should not feel relieved nor congratulate ourselves on the non-occurrence of the World War III for the past 80 years. Instead, we should pay due attention to the fact that the inducible threat has persisted and is now becoming more serious, and take measures accordingly.”

War: “The international community is now witnessing the most turbulent and violent world after World War II. The modern history has recorded many incidents and events. But today, the international norms and order established and consolidated along with the foundation of the UN are disregarded and the sovereignty of states is openly violated as never before.”

Militarism: “Peace and security are the long-cherished desire of humanity and the first agenda of the UN. Without peace and security, we can neither attain the SDGs nor think about a good future that ensures human dignity and prosperity. However, the present objective security situation of the Korean peninsula is faced with serious challenges as never before. The U.S.-ROK, U.S.-Japan military alliances and the U.S.-Japan-ROK trilateral military cooperation system directly targeting the DPRK rapidly evolve into a more offensive and aggressive military bloc with nuclear elements contained. Meanwhile, war exercises and military build-up against our State are breaking all the previous records in terms of scale, nature, frequency and scope.”

Nuclear weapons, militarism: “Nowhere in the world can we find such a place as the Korean peninsula where the world’s biggest nuclear weapon state and its allied forces conduct bilateral and multilateral war exercises all the year round and even stage real-war drills simulating the use of nukes targeting a sovereign state, by mobilizing massive multi-national combined forces and latest strategic assets.

“Even a few days before the current session begins, the U.S. and its allied forces waged nuclear war drills such as "Iron Mace" and "Freedom Edge", aimed at mastering the procedure and methods of nuclear attacks against the DPRK under the fait accompli scenario, thus extremely straining the situation on the Korean peninsula.

“Yet, even in the face of the tremendous military threat directed against the DPRK and the dangerous security landscape, roaring guns of war are silenced and peace and security are firmly safeguarded on the Korean peninsula. This is undeniable reality. Thanks to our State's enhanced physical war deterrent in direct proportion to the growing threat of aggression of the U.S. and its allies, the will of the enemy states to provoke a war is thoroughly contained and the balance of power on the Korean peninsula is ensured.

“In order to permanently maintain this state of balance and ensure everlasting peace on the Korean peninsula, we have stipulated nuclear in our Constitution as a sacred and absolute thing that can never be touched upon and tampered with. Imposition of “Denuclearization” on the DPRK is tantamount to demanding it to surrender sovereignty and right to existence and violate the Constitution. We will never give up sovereignty, abandon the right to existence and violate the Constitution.

“Comrade Kim Jong Un, President of the State Affairs of the DPRK, made it clear at the 13th session of the 14th Supreme People’s Assembly on September 21 that our Party and the government would invariably and firmly safeguard without slightest vacillation the Constitution of the DPRK and its basic law on the policy of nuclear forces perpetuating the possession of nuclear weapons and thoroughly guarantee the supreme interests of our State. The policy line of Comrade President of the State Affairs represents our state law and we will defend the state law without fail. We will never give up nuclear which is our state law, national policy and sovereign power as well as the right to existence. Under any circumstances, we will never walk away from this position.”

War: “This year marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, colorful political and cultural events have taken place in various countries commemorating the victory in the anti-fascist world war. It is an expression of the rock-firm will of the righteous international community not to tolerate the attempts to deny the result of the anti-fascist world war and national liberation struggles achieved at a tremendous sacrifice 80 years have passed since the end of World War II. Yet genocide and crimes against humanity that can even overshadow Hitler are now openly committed in the Middle East, much to the consternation of the world. Israel, which massacred over 60,000 Palestine civilians in the past 2 years, is seeking to occupy the whole area of Gaza by force and completely exterminate the Palestine population. We strongly urge Israel to stop immediately crimes against humanity and withdraw from the Gaza Strip. Likewise, we fully support the establishment of an independent state of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital and Palestine's full-fledged membership of the UN.”

Democratic People’s Republic of the Congo
Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President
23 September 2025

Armed conflict: “The ongoing armed conflict in my country is a tragic illustration of this. For three decades, peace and security have been shattered in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This war has turned into a predatory enterprise: it has long gone beyond military or geopolitical dimensions alone; it aims to plunder our resources, erase our collective memory, and destroy our communities.”

Armed conflict: “The United Nations itself, through the Mapping Report, has documented the extent of the atrocities. This is not just a conflict: it is a silent genocide that has been afflicting the Congolese people for more than thirty years. As recently as last July, more than three hundred civilians — including forty-eight women and nineteen children — were massacred in Rutshuru territory by the AFC/M23 with the support of the Rwandan Defense Forces. These crimes are not isolated incidents; they are part of a macabre continuum. I thank the United States of America for taking the initiative last month to convene a special session of the Security Council to examine these massacres documented by Human Rights Watch.”

Disarmament: “In this regard, I commend the leadership of President Donald Trump, who created the conditions for a dialogue that led, on June 27, 2025, in Washington, to the signing of a peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda. This Agreement expressly commits Kigali to a complete and verifiable withdrawal of its troops and to the lifting of its so-called "defensive" measures. It also provides for the disengagement, disarmament, and conditional integration of non-state armed groups into the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Congolese National Police, the establishment of a joint security coordination mechanism, and a mechanism to ensure respect for territorial integrity and the cessation of hostilities. The withdrawal of Rwandan troops, the end of their support for the M23, and the return of Congolese state authority over all occupied areas are non-negotiable conditions for genuine peace.”

Denmark
Ms. Christina Markus Lassen, Permanent Representative to the United Nations
29 September 2025

War: “It even seemed that wars between states were becoming a thing of the past. In recent years, this path has been broken. Wars are back.”

Armed conflict: “As an elected member of the Security Council, Denmark works towards ensuring that the Council fulfils its vital mandate. Towards safeguarding international law including international humanitarian law, and ensuring that the voices of those affected by conflict are heard by the Council.”

War: “Too often, however, results are not possible. Too often, the Security Council is divided. Unable or unwilling to act. The costs of inaction are felt across the world. From the raging war in Sudan, to the erasure of women’s rights in Afghanistan. From the spiralling gang violence in Haiti, to the crisis in Myanmar, to the instability across the Sahel. Not to mention the horrible situation in Gaza.”

War: “Almost two years have passed since the horrific terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7th 2023. An attack that tore through Israeli families and left a nation wounded to its core. Denmark has repeatedly and consistently condemned the attack and called for the immediate release of all hostages. We have also said from day one that Israel has a right to self-defence. But what is going on in Gaza right now has nothing to do with self-defence. A man-made famine is spreading. Thousands of civilians are being killed. The humanitarian catastrophe is of unbearable scale. It must be brought to an end immediately. Israel must comply with international law, including international humanitarian law. The war in Gaza needs to stop. The two-state solution remains the only solution to lasting peace. For two peoples. Both deserving of security. Both deserving of dignity. The high-level conference on the two-state solution Monday clearly demonstrated that the momentum is growing. That we are witnessing a renewed energy and enthusiasm for peace based on the two-state solution. A solution that Denmark is prepared to build on. The keys to recognition of a Palestinian state can no longer lie in the hands of the Israeli government. The Palestinians themselves must become masters of their own destiny.”

War: “In Ukraine, Russia’s horrific and illegal war of choice continues. A war that could end tomorrow; if only Russia wanted it to. If only Russia would withdraw to its own territory and refrain from trying to alter international borders by force. Russia’s blatant violation of the UN Charter is felt most intensely in Ukraine and Europe. Yet, its political and economic repercussions are felt across the world. From the disruption of supply chains to global inflation. Costs that are born primarily by developing countries, far away from the European battlefield of Russian creation.

“From the outset, Denmark has stood by Ukraine. Politically, economically, militarily. And let there be no doubt, Denmark will continue to support Ukraine, for as long as it takes. We must support Ukraine’s military, as it fights to protect its people, its territory and its freedom. This is exactly what Denmark is doing through a range of initiatives. We call on others to step up and do the same. Because Ukraine is not just fighting for its own existence. It is fighting to defend the very principles that define the UN-based world order: Territorial integrity. National Sovereignty. And the right to political independence. Let us never forget, that Russia is the aggressor.”

Drones, aircraft, war: “Russia’s repeated violations of European sovereign airspace - with aircrafts and drones - underline Russia’s insistence on staying on a path of war. Colleagues, I ask you, are these the actions of a country genuinely committed to peace?”

War, militarism: “Our collective inability to halt the killings, suffering, and injustices in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan and beyond, must not prompt us to submit to a world ruled by brute force.”

Djibouti
Mr. Mohamed Siad Doualeh, Permanent Representative to the United Nations
29 September 2025

Armed conflicts, explosive weapons: “However, these achievements cannot mask the devastating consequences caused by ongoing geopolitical and geo-economic fragmentation. Conflicts are proliferating and becoming entrenched from Ukraine to Sudan, via the Sahel. The unspeakable horror continues in Gaza, where children are murdered with impunity on a daily basis and famine is used as a weapon of war, without the international community being able to effectively stop the ongoing genocide, as confirmed by the United Nations investigation report of 16 September, prepared under the direction of Judge Navi Pillay. The norms governing the use of force are violated with frightening regularity, as illustrated by the bombings, raids and extra-territorial assassinations carried out by Israel. We condemn the terrorist aggression against Qatar and the violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. On behalf of the President of the Republic, H.E. ISMAEL OMAR GUELLE, we reaffirm our solidarity with His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, as well as the Government and brotherly people of Qatar.”

Armed conflict, ceasefire: “We are extremely concerned about the continuing hostilities in Sudan in this fratricidal conflict that has been going on for more than two years. The loss of human life is heavy, and the destruction of costly civilian infrastructure is disrupting essential services such as water, health and electricity. The continuing deterioration of the security and humanitarian situation is causing massive population displacement. Sudan, with more than 30 million people in need of assistance according to United Nations figures, is facing a catastrophic humanitarian situation that requires an immediate and coordinated response from the international community.

“We call for an immediate end to military operations and the establishment of a lasting ceasefire, in line with previous regional resolutions aimed at defusing the conflict. Finally, Djibouti reaffirms its commitment to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, national unity and stability of Sudan, in accordance with regional and international commitments. We reaffirm our willingness to work in partnership with regional and international actors seeking a peaceful and lasting solution to the crisis and call for the interests of the Sudanese people and regional stability to be at the centre of our efforts at all times.”

War: “When the United Nations Charter was signed and the United Nations was created, the international community, having learned the lessons of the League of Nations, pledged to do everything in its power to spare humanity the scourge of world war. It seems that the promise of a world without war has not been kept, as we unfortunately still face a number of conflicts today, some of which are particularly horrific. The most devastating conflict, as old as the United Nations itself, remains Israel's ongoing aggression and occupation of its lands. The unspeakable horror that reigns there requires urgent action by the Community, beyond words and condemnations without consequences.”

“In Gaza and the West Bank, for Israelis, killing seems to be the most innocent of occupations. While the international community is working to revitalise the two-state solution, Israel is busy burying not only the idea of two states but also the future possibility of a viable and sovereign Palestinian state. Their dearest wish is to compromise the two-state solution and bury the peace beneath the rubble of colonisation and militarisation. But this is, of course, a mission doomed to failure. The Palestinian people are resilient and courageous.”

“The international community is equally determined, as illustrated by the resolution adopted by a large majority of Member States at the General Assembly and the very encouraging results of the international conference of 22 September co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France. We cannot repeat this often enough! The two-state solution is the only one capable of meeting the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people and bringing about lasting peace.”

Dominica
Ms. Sylvanie Burton, President
25 September 2025

Artificial intelligence: “For some it is indeed the best of times. Strong economies, access to education, medicines, top class health care, clean water, sanitation, and housing. They are at the frontier of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, with expanding digital infrastructure and rising standards of living.”

War: “But for many it remains the worst of times: Persistent poverty, growing hunger, displacement, instability and war; nations on the frontlines of climate change, enduring the worst impacts and debt crisis not of their own making, but a price they pay for the excesses of others.”

War: “It bears restating that the UN was created 80 years ago, to prevent wars, to promote peace and international cooperation, based on ideals of mutual respect, human rights and the rule of law. It has championed multilateralism, recognizing that no one country has the answer for the world’s problems, that the world is interconnected, and to maintain peace we should operate a rules-based and not power based approach.”

Militarism: “A Tale of Two Cities portrayed a society where the powerful live in luxury and the oppressed suffer in silence. We can take heed of the warning that we glean from Dickens work, that injustice should not be ignored, that when powerful nations impose their will on the less powerful, without accountability or regard for the rule of law, they plant seeds of discord and future unrest.”

Armed conflict: “What have the lessons taught us? What should we ask ourselves as we gather year after year in this Chamber? Are we truly listening to the nations that take the podium every year to decry poverty, inequality, climate change, underdevelopment and conflict? Do we have a system where resources and decision making are truly being equitably shared, or are we instead operating a system where power protects itself?”

Armed conflict: “I am reminded of the old African proverb “When elephants fight the grass gets trampled”. We the small island developing states, we are that grass. In today’s geopolitical landscape we feel the brunt of the impact when global powers engage in political, economic or military confrontation. Economic sanctions, trade restrictions, aid conditionalities, conflict and wars, to name a few, affect global supply and the affordability, availability and transportation of goods and materials. This significantly increases the cost of doing business and the prices of basic foods on our supermarket shelves, putting several goods out of the price range of many.”

Explosive weapons, armed conflict: “While we complain about these things, equally horrifying is the indiscriminate and deliberate loss of life that we see around the world from bombings, from induced hunger, from sanctioned violence, and genocide. We do not have the power to prevent the storms and to bring the rains where there is drought, but we do have the power to limit further climate change and help countries adapt and mitigate its impact. So too, we have the power to end wars and not start new ones. We have to be willing to talk to each other, to empathize with each other, we should return to the founding principles of the United Nations.”

Armed conflict: “Wherever there is conflict, be it in the Horn of Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia or sad to say in the Caribbean, major powers engaging in geopolitical conflicts result in civilians becoming collateral damage, economies collapsing, increase in prices and instability. I want to emphasize here today that there is no place in the Caribbean for war. The Caribbean is a Zone of Peace. Any military conflict in the Caribbean will have significant negative impacts on the Caribbean and Latin America. There is a better way to resolve differences. We urge the powers that be to find another way.”

Militarism: “And so, Madam President, I return to our “Tale” where a man dismissed by society gives his life for another- Are the wealthiest nations willing to give up dominance for fairness? To make sacrifices to ensure justice, equity, and climate resilience for all? Will we choose compassion and empathy over control and indifference?”

Militarism, armed conflict: “We also call for restraint and strict adherence to the rule of law as relates to the presence of US military assets in the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. The solution to conflict, to challenges should never be aggression and war. We urge that all diplomatic efforts be pursued to respect the sovereignty of States, preserve the dignity of human life, and promote peace.”

War: “The UN arose out of the ashes of a world torn by devastating wars. Let us not return to those dark days, but instead be guided by law, diplomacy and shared values.”

Dominican Republic
Mr. Luis Rodolfo Abinader Corona, President
24 September 2025

Armed conflict, arms embargo: “With responsibility and consistency, I have maintained before this Assembly—and in all relevant international forums— that the multidimensional crisis in Haiti represents a serious threat to peace and security for the Dominican Republic and the region…That neighboring country is currently experiencing an unprecedented human tragedy: extreme violence, institutional collapse, and territorial control by numerous criminal gangs that terrorize the population. Groups that the Dominican and U.S. governments have classified as terrorist organizations, and with which there can be no negotiation whatsoever.

“Faced with this reality, the Dominican Republic has launched a continuous diplomatic offensive with the aim of achieving an effective international response. In this vein, the Security Council approved a Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), along with an arms embargo and a sanctions regime for individuals and institutions that support these criminal organizations.”

Ecuador
Ms. María Gabriela Sommerfeld Rosero, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility
25 September 2025

War: “Eighty years ago, we chose cooperation over conflict; peace over war. My presence at this Assembly is an opportunity to reaffirm before the international community that Ecuador will continue to prioritise collaboration between States, because only by working together can we guarantee a future of peace, security and prosperity for our peoples. Therefore, Ecuador's foreign policy supports multilateralism, the model that enables international cooperation to address global challenges and achieve common goals.”

Armed conflict, illicit arms trade: “Ecuador maintains that the concept of international peace and security should be broadened to include the fight against transnational organised crime, a phenomenon that undermines governance, fuels corruption, perpetuates violence and erodes prospects for progress. In fact, it has similar economic, political and social consequences to traditional armed conflicts. We are not talking about local gangs, but rather international networks and logistics chains that move thousands of tonnes of drugs, exploit illegal mining and traffic weapons, people and even human organs. In response to numerous acts of violence and narco-terrorism, the Ecuadorian government recognised the existence of a non-international armed conflict in January 2024 and designated several of these groups as terrorists.”

Militarism: “The Ecuadorian Government has called for a national and democratic debate on foreign military bases through a referendum to be held next November, offering strategic points that can be used to control and monitor criminal activities, for the benefit of international peace and security.”

Artificial intelligence: “Emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, present unprecedented opportunities for human progress, but also significant risks to security, equity and human rights.Ecuador considers it essential to move towards multilateral and ethical governance of these tools, which guarantees inclusive access, prevents new digital divides and ensures that their use is oriented towards the common good.”

Egypt
Mr. Badr Ahmed Mohamed Abdelatty, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates
27 September 2025

War: “The Middle East is at a point of implosion. The basis of stability, peace and security are absent. There is no noteworthy respect for international legitimacy. Our Palestinian brethren are falling victim to the most heinous Israeli actions. It's a wanton, unjust war waged against defenseless civilians for a sin they did not commit. Driven by an extremist ideology that only sees destruction, killing, and systematic starvation - a toxic narrative, an incitement to hatred and violence. The aggression is transpiring without accountability, and it has affected one country of the region after the other. The latest we have seen is the wanton aggression against brotherly Qatar.”

War, ceasefire: “Egypt is fully willing and committed to building on the vision by President Trump to restore civility, to end the war, and to open a political horizon that paves the way for an establishment of a Palestinian state. To also release hostages and detainees, and to heal all wounds - the wounds of the orphans, the injured, the hungry - in the Gaza Strip. And put an end to the arrogance of might, and to put it aside and to restore hope for tomorrow. Egypt since the outbreak of this crisis, has done its utmost to reach a ceasefire. A ceasefire that is sustainable in Gaza in partnership with brotherly Qatar and the United States of America. We worked on resuming the entry of humanitarian aid without obstacles to address the starvation that is made by Israel. We must restore the basic necessities of life.”

Militarism: “We call for making concerted effort and mobilizing the necessary funding in order to activate AUSSOM in Somalia. Egypt intends to contribute to this force with a military and police component.”

Nuclear weapons: “Our region has seen the targeting of nuclear facilities that are subject to the AIEA separate agreement which is inconsistent with international law.”

Artificial intelligence: “We also look forward to enhancing efforts for developing countries to have access to AI and digital technologies.”

Equatorial Guinea
Mr. Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, Vice-President
25 September 2025

Armed conflict, cyber: “The peoples of the world trust the UN to act on the major challenges of our time: armed conflict and violence, climate change, growing inequalities, migration crises, cyber threats, and the lack of technology transfer.”

Eritrea
Mr. Osman Saleh Mohammed, Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2025

Militarism, war: “The fact is, past and present global systems are broadly rooted on monopoly, plunder, and deceit. Domination and attendant policies crafted to that end; military power that is garnered and military assaults unleashed are indeed mere tools/means of domination and plunder. Similarly, various “economic” and financial architectures are essentially enunciated to bolster the objectives of domination and plunder. Policies formulated and operations undertaken to expand “spheres of influence” are likewise sheer means of domination and plunder. Subtle corruption constitutes another means of domination and plunder. Wars, conflicts, and crises are also stoked and aggravated for the sole purposes of domination and plunder. Tools of propaganda and deception are weaponized for similar objectives.”

Estonia
Mr. Alar Karis, President
24 September 2025

Armed conflict: “Unfortunately, the international law based multilateral system, with the UN and its Charter at the core, that was supposed to keep us all safe is increasingly under strain. Its fundamental principles are violated in numerous conflicts across the world. Brutality prevails. We simply cannot let this go on.”

Armed conflict, militarism: “We all should be asking what kind of future do we want? Will it be a world dominated by barbaric use of force and violence, where might is always right? Or do we want a peaceful and prosperous world where law and order, justice and universally agreed rules and principles prevail? This question is relevant for everyone in this room despite of the distance of our own homes from the frontlines in Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, or the DRC.?”

“Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine constitutes one of the gravest breaches of international law and the UN Charter since its adoption 80 years ago. Despite repeated calls by the General Assembly to stop the aggression and set the course towards peace, Russia continues its savage assault on the Ukrainian state and nation. Russia´s war and its war crimes are undermining the reputation and credibility both of the Security Council and the entire United Nations. This blatant assault on the principles of the Charter is undermining the multilateralism, global peace and security.”

Armed conflict, landmines, “Regrettably, as we speak, Russia is targeting Ukrainian kindergartens, schools, hospitals, nurseries with missiles, drones, gliding bombs, mines, shells and bullets. The same Permanent member has been systematically abducting and deporting Ukrainian children, erasing their identity and forcing them into indoctrination. A human suffering in Ukraine has reached unprecedented levels. Only the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine has documented the death of at least 14000 civilians, including almost 1000 children and for about 35 000 civilians injured including more than 2000 children. The death toll increases with every year, month, week and day.”

Armed conflict, drones: “In total disregard of President Zelensky agreeing to ceasefire in March, and of the recent peace efforts by the United States, Russia has significantly intensified its campaign of terror with a barrage of drone and missile strikes on civilian targets.”

Armed conflict, militarism, drones, missiles: “In response to recent peace efforts, Russia has instead intensified its campaign of terror with a barrage of drone and missile strikes on civilian targets. Russia’s objectives have not changed: they remain the subjugation of all of Ukraine and the reshaping of Europe’s security order to satisfy Russia´s own neocolonial and imperial ambitions. The increasing violations of neighbouring countries’ airspace by Russian drones and missiles are yet another escalation and a stark reminder that Russia’s aggression threatens not only Ukraine but the security of the entire region.”

Militarism: “Hereby I have to regrettably tell you that just weekdays ago, three Russian fighter planes violated Estonian airspace, a hostile act that is part of a pattern of similar recent incidents happening on the European Union’s eastern border. Therefore, the only viable way forward towards a ceasefire and just and lasting peace is to increase collective international pressure on Russia to force them to peace in Ukraine and to act in a way that is expected from a Permanent Member of the Security Council.”

Armed conflict: “Let me assure you that my own country, Estonia, will continue to do everything possible to reinforce Ukraine’s ability to defend itself in full conformity with the Art 51 of the UN Charter. Doing so we are defending the sovereign equality of all the Member states, large and small – one of the core principles on which the United Nations was founded.”

“The international law based multilateral system has also failed to protect Palestinians and Israelis. Having visited both Israel and Palestine this year, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of this long-lasting conflict. Hamas’ brutal terrorist attacks on 7 October have been condemned by the whole world. Hamas cannot have any role in the future governance of Gaza and Palestine. It has to be guaranteed that the horrors of terrorism would never be repeated.”

“However, ordinary people and children in Gaza must not be the ones to pay the price. I am devastated that so many innocent lives, including children’s lives have been lost due to military action, starvation and the spread of disease. The promise of international humanitarian law was to ensure that people do not suffer during armed conflict. And yet, what has unfolded in Gaza has crossed all red lines.”

Armed conflict, ceasefire: “Estonia has supported all efforts for a ceasefire that would end the killing, destruction of lives, and bring all the hostages home. In order to alleviate the unbearable humanitarian situation, Israel must fully respect international humanitarian law and implement its commitments regarding access and delivery of humanitarian aid and security of aid workers.”

Armed conflict: “In order to truly end the cycle of violence, we need a comprehensive political process with the end goal of two states – Israel and Palestine – living side by side in peace and security. I commend the efforts of France and Saudi Arabia to step up international action to implement the two-state solution.”

Artificial intelligence: “World today looks different from the one 34 years ago. But new technology is there again and waiting to be put into best use. Therefore, Estonia is making a new Leap – the Artificial Intelligence Leap. We are again providing the best technological tools available to our students and teachers so that we keep comparative edge in education for years to come. Equipping citizens with the skills to use AI wisely and responsibly is essential. AI must serve dignity, development, and human rights – not the other way around.”

Ceasefire: “It is evident that Russia has no intention of agreeing to a ceasefire, let alone a lasting peace.”

Eswatini
Mr. King Mswati III, Head of State
25 September 2025

Armed conflict: “As we gather today, mankind is confronted with many challenges including conflicts around the world. We must remind ourselves that when the United Nations was established in 1945, it was during a time of widespread global strife. Its founding fathers resolved that no country or people should endure suffering due to conflict. The UN charter and structure were designed to be clear and resolute.”

Armed conflict: “I propose that the United Nations establishes ad hoc committees to tackle global conflicts and promote peace. These committees should have equitable representation in dealing with relative conflicts in the diverse regions of hot spots including Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and beyond — ensuring that all affected nations have a voice.

“Supported by the Secretariat of the United Nations, these ad hoc committees would visit conflict zones, engage with local communities, and work towards peaceful resolutions. For example, in Africa the conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, the Sahel and the Great Lakes need the intervention of these ad hoc committees.

“In the Middle East, they should facilitate dialogue with all parties involved, the team could ask the Palestinians what it will take to release the hostages, given the fact that the Israelis would remain aggrieved as long as their loved ones are not with them. Similarly the ad hoc committee should engage the Israelis to ascertain what it would also take for them to stop the bombardment to avoid loss of more innocent lives, widespread destruction of property, and a growing refugee crisis. By engaging directly with affected communities, these committees could help broker solutions that address the concerns of all sides, to reduce tensions, suffering and foster stability.

“In the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, these ad hoc committees could mediate discussions to identify pathways to peace. Their role would be to engage in meaningful dialogue, and report back to the United Nations with actionable recommendations on what it would take to end the war.

“In Eswatini we encourage engagements that yield positive outcomes proving that dialogue is the cornerstone in nation building. We thank those countries already making means in finding solutions. This suggested approach is not meant to undermine their efforts, but it would complement them as they are already working towards peaceful resolutions. We must avoid actions that could escalate tensions further and instead focus on saving innocent lives."

Ethiopia
Mr. Taye Atskeselassie Made, President
25 September 2025

Armed conflict: “Wars are prevented; humanitarian catastrophes are averted; and deadly pandemics successfully contained. Global cooperation under the framework of the Millennium and Sustainable Development Goals has resulted in a reduction of extreme poverty and paved the way for climate action.”

Arms race, militarism: “We are also deeply concerned by isolationist policies, unprecedented military buildup, arms race, and the disturbing trend of retraction from development and climate commitments. These worrying trajectories are counterproductive to the collective progress of humanity and undermine the very premise of peaceful interstate relations.”

Armed conflict: “Ethiopia supports the peaceful resolution of all conflicts. The path of violence must yield to the power of diplomacy. We affirm our historic position on the right of the Palestinian people for self-determination. Direct negotiation among the warring parties is an immediate necessity. Humanitarian assistance must reach too all the people in need. This is not a political preference but a moral imperative!”

“As Ethiopia has pronounced in its position during the adoption of the resolutions on the two-state solution, the international community should join hands to end the vicious cycle of violence and stalemate in order to give peace a chance. We wish to underscore, any proposed peace and reconstruction plan in the Middle East should not create complications to adjacent countries and regions.”

European Union
Mr. António Costa, President of the European Council
25 September 2025

Armed conflict: “The world faces a crucial choice. Do we want a rules-based international order, based on multilateralism and the United Nations Charter? Or a chaotic world based on unilateralism, violence, and disruption?”

“The alternative to the rules-based international order is a chaotic and violent world. As seen in Sudan, an underreported and devastating conflict with destruction of huge proportions. As seen in Gaza. As seen in Ukraine.”

“In Gaza. Where we witness an unimaginable suffering. Children starving. Families shattered. A humanitarian catastrophe that shocks the world’s conscience. The use of starvation as a weapon of war is immoral. One that defies words.”

“The European Union condemns terrorism in all its forms. The horrific attacks by Hamas cannot be forgotten. We stand with Israel’s right to security. Every country, every people, have the right to live in security. The hostages must be released immediately.”

“The Palestinian people have the same right to security and to live in a viable state. A negotiated two-State solution is the only path to peace. Security for both peoples. Dignity for both peoples. This is the solution we seek.”

“The European Union fully assumes its responsibilities. But we, alone, cannot stop this humanitarian catastrophe. Peace in the Middle East requires a collective response. We need everyone to assume their responsibilities. We must act together and demand:

The unconditional release of all hostages.
An immediate ceasefire.
Full and unimpeded humanitarian access.
An end to illegal settlements.
A renewed, credible commitment to a two-state solution.”

“This was the strong message from the Two-States Conference hosted on Monday by France and Saudi Arabia, to which the European Union is fully committed.”

“In Ukraine. A sovereign nation was brutally attacked by a permanent member of the Security Council — in clear violation of the United Nations Charter. A clear violation of sovereignty, territorial integrity, the respect of internationally recognized borders, and the right to choose its own destiny. Principles that bind all the members of the United Nations.This aggression threatens not only Ukraine. It threatens every nation in this Assembly. If we accept Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, no country will ever be safe. There is only one root cause to this war –Russia’s refusal to accept Ukraine’s right to choose its own future. For over three years, this war has claimed innocent lives, destroyed cities, and fuelled global insecurity. Our collective security is tied to Ukraine’s resilience.”

“The European Union stands firm in supporting Ukraine. In their fight for a just and lasting peace. In their efforts to bring an end to the killing, and Russia to the negotiation table. In their future reconstruction. In providing security guarantees to prevent future attacks. In their path to full membership in the European Union.”

“We will continue to apply pressure on Russia to end this war. We call for meaningful negotiations, an immediate ceasefire, and a just and lasting peace. This is not Ukraine’s fight alone. It is a fight for the principles we all hold dear.

Artificial intelligence: “The European Union champions a human-centered approach to artificial intelligence. We are pioneering the world's first comprehensive regulatory framework for responsible artificial intelligence. And we call for an equivalent level of ambition internationally. This is based on our fundamental values: dignity, democracy, and the rule of law.”

Fiji
Mr. Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka, Prime Minister
26 September 2025

War, nuclear weapons: “The Pacific knows the value of peace as we had lived through the horrors of its absence. Our ocean, its diverse and vibrant lands had been a theatre of the two World Wars, and a testing ground for the world’s most dangerous weapons – its impacts are still felt and seen today. It is our expectation that the Ocean of Peace Declaration is seen as the platform that spurs on the evolution of our region’s longstanding commitment to peace and prosperity.”

War, armed conflict: “Much has been said in this Forum about conflicts during the past 80 years including those raging today. I urge and pray for balanced considerations. We look at how these conflicts started and by whom. Be it in Ukraine, Gaza or elsewhere. What is the motive of those that started these wars? What have they done to try and end it, if any? Is our prescription for a solution based on history, on truth, on fairness? Madam President, we cannot be talking about ending the war without guaranteeing Israel its right to peaceful existence, nor the peaceful existence of the Ukrainian people. For peace, we, collectively, have a responsibility to seeing this is done. Anything short, is hypocrisy on our part. Building peace and sustaining it in the next 80 years demands of us to be truthful as the necessary first step. That our aim must be for the dignity of peoples, on all sides of the conflict. We cannot be selective with truth. ‘Doing to others as we want others to do unto us’ is a must, if peace, sustained peace, is to be part of the new world order in the next 80 years. Falling short of this might be a reason the United Nations is not delivering at capacity.”

Finland
Mr. Alexander Stubb, President
24 September 2025

Armed conflict: “Russia has no right to continue its aggression against Ukraine. Israel has no right to violate international law in Palestine. States have no right to use Sudanese or Congolese territories to fight proxy wars for their economic or strategic self-interest. I urge us all to heed this message of the international community and act accordingly. War is always a failure of humanity. It is a collective failure of our fundamental values.”

Militarism: “Today, the UN is struggling to fulfil its central promise of delivering peace and stability. Countries have increasingly taken the liberty to break the rules of international law, and to use force to gain other peoples’ territories and suppress other nations.”

Armed conflict, militarism: “Never before in history has humankind had such means and innovations at its disposal to solve the world’s most pressing problems. However, the current direction is wrong in many ways: there are more wars than at any time since World War II, the world is becoming increasingly divided, and so are our societies, and the measures to deal with climate change and sustainable development are lagging behind. In different parts of the world, we are witnessing immense civilian suffering and blatant disrespect for humanitarian principles. For me as a Finn, Russia’s war of aggression on Ukraine not only reminds me of our past, but is directly linked to the security of the part of the world where I live. On the one hand, there is aggression and a total disregard for civilian life, and an attempt to undermine the fundamental principles on which the international order based. On the other hand, there is a bastion of freedom that is defending its right to exist and to make its own choices. The battle for what consequences we will draw from this aggression is not yet over. Recently, there has been a serious attempt at a diplomatic solution of the war on the initiative of the United States.

“There are no perfect solutions to wars. At the same time, we know that any decision made in these matters will have far-reaching consequences for Ukraine and beyond.

“There can hardly be a stronger unifying interest among the UN’s broad membership than our opposition to the wars of conquest. Aggression must not be rewarded. Accountability for the most serious international crimes must be pursued.”

Armed conflict, ceasefire: “In the Middle East, civilians in Gaza are experiencing immense suffering. The deepening humanitarian crisis has reached unbearable levels and represents a failure of the international system. At the same time, Hamas continues to hold the hostages it has taken and many have already lost their lives. An immediate ceasefire is needed in Gaza. Humanitarian aid must be granted safe and unhindered access. The hostages must be released.”

Armed conflict: “I commend the efforts led by France and Saudi Arabia to advance the two-state solution. The negotiations must meet the Israeli and Palestinian security needs and Palestinian right to self- determination, its legitimate aspiration for statehood and sovereignty. The occupation that began in 1967 must end, and all permanent status issues must be resolved. Correspondingly, the countries that have not recognised Israel must do so. At the same time, the international community must support and strengthen the Palestinian Authority for it to govern the entire Palestinian territory effectively. This is the only viable option for achieving a two-state solution. A stable Palestine will also significantly benefit the security of Israel.

“In many other parts of the world, conflicts are raging – causing immense suffering locally, instability regionally and reverberations globally. We have witnessed particularly brutal violence in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, Myanmar, and Mali, among others. Civilian populations continue to face famine and displacement at a large scale.

“I would also like to stress the crucial work carried out by journalists amid conflicts and in other difficult circumstances. Attacks on members of the media are unacceptable.

“The UN needs to focus its efforts on its most important goals: ending and preventing wars, protecting human rights, and acting as a catalyst for sustainable development. We need to get the UN back to peace mediation. No other organisation can offer the legitimacy comparable to that of the UN. If the UN is absent, conflicts are resolved without it, which is not in our common interest. The UN is needed as a mediator, and the member states should support it in this endeavour.”

France
Mr. Emmanuel Macron, President
23 September 2025

Armed conflict: “Let's not kid ourselves. This eightieth anniversary is no cause for celebration. Armed conflicts are on the rise, whether internal or international, state-sponsored or provoked by criminal and terrorist acts. The belligerents deliberately flout the Geneva Conventions, as if horror served revenge or terror served victory. Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Haiti, Burma, Democratic Republic of Congo. The list of violence suffered by the populations in these war zones is as long as it is unbearable.”

Armed conflict, militarism: “That is why it is so important for Ukraine to resist Russia and achieve a peace that will deter Russia from stealing its territory, its children, its wealth, and its future again. Russian aggression is not Europe's problem, but a problem for all of us here. It raises the eternal question of the authority of law versus the law of the strongest, of freedom versus imperialism. Ukraine did not want war. It wants peace. France also wants peace, Europeans want peace, the United States of America wants peace. To this end, Ukraine has a fundamental right: the right to live in security and no longer fear that Russia will attack it again. That is why France, together with the United Kingdom, has built a coalition of the willing bringing together 35 nations to give Ukraine the guarantees it needs for its long-term security. We are thus creating the conditions for a solid and just peace that will enable Ukrainians to fulfill their destiny. And what has happened in recent weeks in the airspace of Poland, dear President, of Romania, the provocations seen in Estonia and elsewhere, are also proof that all Europeans are challenged by Russian threats and attempts at destabilization that require such unity.”

Ceasefire: “Ukraine has said it many times: it is ready for a ceasefire and willing to negotiate. It is now up to Russia to prove that it can choose peace, even as it steps up its attacks on civilians in Ukraine and the provocations I have just mentioned.”

Armed conflict: “It is because France rejects double standards that it stands alongside Ukraine and supports peace in the Middle East. Yesterday, we adopted a credible plan to end the war in Gaza and preserve a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, secure the release of all hostages, and save countless lives. We have charted a path to peace that requires, above all else, the release of the hostages still held by Hamas and an end to the strikes on Gaza. I am pleased that France and Saudi Arabia have convinced a large number of the members of this assembly to sign the New York declaration. There are 142 members of this assembly reaching out to build a path to peace, immediate peace, the release of hostages, a ceasefire, the stabilization of Gaza, the demilitarization and dismantling of Hamas, and mutual recognition, and a demilitarized State of Palestine recognizing Israel, and a State of Israel recognizing a State of Palestine, and all the states in the region that have not yet done so, thus recognizing the State of Israel. Through this recognition, which is also a path to peace, we are also seeking to build stability throughout the entire region. There can be no security or stability for Israel if it is engaged in permanent war with all its neighbors. Peace with Palestine in the West Bank and Gaza and throughout Jerusalem.”

Nuclear weapons: “Furthermore, the region will only be at peace if Iran's nuclear programme, which has been partially destroyed, is once again fully controlled. That is why France, Germany and the United Kingdom have jointly agreed to initiate the process of reinstating all international sanctions previously imposed on Iran. Iran alone is responsible for fulfilling its obligations, but it can still decide to open its doors to the IAEA, shed light on its stockpile of enriched uranium, and agree to new negotiations. The next few hours will be decisive. Either Iran makes a gesture, recommits to a path of peace and responsibility, allowing it to get back on track, and the IAEA to do its job, and the stockpile to be transferred. Or the sanctions will have to be applied. I will have the opportunity to discuss this tomorrow with President Pezechkian.”

Nuclear weapons, chemical weapons, biological weapons, cyber, AI, outer space: “There is also an urgent need to rebuild a credible, verifiable framework to combat nuclear proliferation and to rebuild a credible framework to contain ballistic threats and proliferation. I am not forgetting chemical and bacteriological threats, nor am I forgetting new risks, such as those involving artificial intelligence, quantum technology, cyber technology and space technology. These are all threats against which our existing common frameworks have been weakened in recent years. Sometimes because some have rendered them obsolete, other times because verification rules have not been properly observed, and also because technological acceleration means that technology and its capacity for innovation are moving faster than our existing frameworks. On all these points, we cannot afford to give in. Our responsibility is to move forward and build this essential framework for peace. We need the same demand for effectiveness, the same effective multilateralism, when it comes to the major global challenges we face. I know how much attention the Secretary-General pays to this, and I want to thank him for the ambition he shows for our organisation through the UN 80 Initiative. I share this concern.”

Gabon
Mr. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, President
25 September 2025

Armed conflict: “The world today presents a profoundly different face. While humanity has never had so many technological means to ensure its well-being, international peace and security have never seemed so fragile and threatened. It is more than time for peace to reign on earth, and particularly in Africa, so wounded by conflicts whose decision-makers and financiers are found outside the continent.”

Weapons, armed conflict: “May the weapons finally fall silent in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in Sudan, in the Horn of Africa, and in the Sahel! In this regard, rather than always stigmatizing and condemning the Sahel states, the international community would do well to support them in their fight against the terrorist hydra.”

Armed conflict: “On December 12, 1988, Gabon officially recognized the State of Palestine. Yesterday as today, we support the two-state solution, the only path, in accordance with United Nations resolutions, to guarantee a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians as well as international security.”

Gambia (Republic of The)
Mr. Mohammed Jallow, Vice-President
25 September 2025

War: “This Session is being held at a very pivotal moment for the international community. The enormity of the challenges of managing and resolving the ongoing and sporadic wars, conflicts, and threats to international peace and security require all Member States to reaffirm their faith and collective commitment to the noble principles of the UN Charter.”

Armed conflict: “We must now do more to fulfil the commitments we assumed under the Pact for the Future. The protracted challenges of conflict and geopolitical fragmentation, including the threat to the spirit of multilateralism under the United Nations, doggedly linger on. As the world grapples with complex and unprecedented challenges on various fronts, the peace and security landscape is becoming increasingly fragile.

“Amid the changing nature of conflict, we are continually witnessing consequential disregard for the principles of International Humanitarian Law in conflict zones. It is even more threatening that the rules-based international order is under enormous stress, thus losing its momentum, relevance, and moral underpinnings.”

Armed conflict: “It is significant that the AU and the UN collaborate closely to address regional peace and security matters, and this includes recalibration of preventive diplomacy tools for maximum impact. Likewise, the need to strengthen early warning mechanisms and prioritise the protection of children affected by armed conflict is strongly evident.”

Armed conflict: “The high death rates, displacements, and untold suffering of civilians in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, Europe, and other corners of the world are truly unacceptable. All the raging conflicts around the world need to stop immediately.

“Fortunately, the 2025 peacebuilding architecture review presents a golden opportunity to agree on stronger preventive arrangements and measures for conflict prevention. As members of the United Nations and conscientious global citizens, we must continue to collectively pursue responsive and purposive actions by exhorting all hostile factions to dialogue for peace. We must also contribute to effective security arrangements and frameworks not only to prevent conflicts but also protect civilians, particularly women, children, and the elderly. Contending parties in each conflict zone must allow immediate and uninterrupted humanitarian aid to reach the suffering populations and commit to ending all hostilities. The bleeding must stop soonest.

“The plight of the Palestinians remains unresolved, with innocent civilians continuing to face shocking difficulties under dire humanitarian conditions. Yet, the Palestinian predicament predominantly rests on the core principles of justice, respect for international humanitarian law, and self-determination.

“As such, we cannot remain unperturbed by the worsening state of affairs in that region. It is imperative that we act urgently and collectively to revitalise the prospects for an inclusive peace process for Israel, Palestine, and the region. In this context, The Gambia re-echoes its call for a two-state solution to urgently enable the Palestinian people to regain their legitimate national rights, as conceived by the International Community through its recognition of a State of Palestine within the 1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al Shareef as its capital. We support the membership of Palestine into the United Nations. In this spirit, we commend the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and France for the recently concluded High-level Conference on the Question of Palestine.”

Ceasefire: “The Gambia applauds and supports the efforts of the UN Secretary-General in relaunching the Moroccan Sahara round table process to achieve a realistic and sustainable political solution in that regional dispute. We also welcome Morocco’s commitment to the ceasefire, full cooperation with MINURSO, and relaunching of the political process, based on the parameters of Resolution 2756 (2024). In this regard, we call on Polisario to abandon its unilateral withdrawal from the ceasefire and lift restrictions imposed on the freedom of movement and provision of supplies to MINURSO. By the same token, we urge all parties, Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania and Polisario, to work towards a pragmatic and sustainable political solution based on compromise.”

Georgia
Mr. Mikheil Kavelashvili, President
25 September 2025

War: “Despite centuries of continuous warfare with invaders, the cultural environment in Georgia has always been distinguished by exceptional humanism, tolerance and compassion for others.”

War: “I represent the Georgian people, who know both the cost of war and the value of freedom and peace. A people who cherish their rich history and traditions, while at the same time facing with resolve the challenges that lie before our country. Amid a rapidly-changing geopolitical landscape and unprecedented global challenges—such as ongoing conflicts, climate change, ideological polarization, cultural alienation and war-driven humanitarian crises—Georgia stands firmly as a guardian of dialogue, peace, stability and sustainable Development. Despite the many challenges surrounding us, we have managed to ensure the security of our people. The fundamental philosophy of the Government of Georgia remains to preserve peace and, no matter the cost, to spare our people from war.

“For the fourth year now, a horrific, bloody war has been raging in Ukraine, bringing catastrophic consequences and immense human suffering. Drawing on the bitter experience of the 2008 War, whose wounds have not yet healed for the Georgian people, we understand better than many the pain that the Ukrainian nation endures today. Now, as before, Georgia expresses its firm and unwavering support for the Ukrainian people.

“As we deeply understand the importance of peace, Georgia contributes to the transformation of the South Caucasus and strives to turn it from a zone of conflicts into a space of dialogue among civilizations and economic prosperity.

“We welcome President Donald Trump’s peace initiative between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as his efforts to bring the bloody war between Russia and Ukraine to an end soon.”

Germany
Mr. Johann Wadephul, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2025

War: “In Sudan and neighbouring countries, we are witnessing the worst humanitarian catastrophe of our time. Over 30 million people in need of humanitarian assistance. Over 12 million forced to flee their homes. We all need to do more to end this tragedy. The security of the entire region is on the line. The terrible war in Gaza is raging on. Hell on earth. A humanitarian nightmare, as we speak. This war must end. The hostages must be released. The existence and the security of Israel will always be part of our raison d`état. There must be a future in peace and in dignity for all in the Middle East. As we have reaffirmed in this Hall this week: Two States for two peoples. The only solution. I commend all those who continue to work tirelessly to find a path to peace, notably the United States of America.”

Nuclear weapons: “Iran has created and armed a network of malign proxy forces destabilizing the region. In addition, it has for many years been engaged in a nuclear program which goes far beyond any plausible civilian use. For us, it is imperative: Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon. Since Iran clearly does not comply with its obligations under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action agreed to in 2015, we had no choice but to trigger the snapback of sanctions. Following a clear vote by the Security Council yesterday, sanctions will be effective again later today. But let me emphasize: we remain open to negotiations on a new agreement. Diplomacy can and should continue.”

War: “And on my own continent, in Europe, Russia is waging a war of aggression against its sovereign neighbour Ukraine. A war that Ukraine did nothing to provoke. A war that demonstrates the disregard for the most fundamental of all rules of the UN Charter: that “all Member States shall refrain from the use of force against the territorial integrity of any other state”. A rule that permanent members of the Security Council bear a particular responsibility to uphold.”

Ghana
Mr. John Dramani Mahama, President
25 September 2025

Artificial intelligence: “This is a world of cryptocurrency, Artificial Intelligence, social media, the Internet, and its dark, hidden dungeon —the dark web—all of which carry a potential threat to global peace and security.

“The Internet, social media platforms, and Artificial Intelligence offer us the illusion of connectivity, when in fact they reinforce isolation by using algorithms that ensure we do not receive new ideas and perspectives, but rather more of the same. We are served alternative facts and manipulated images, making it easier to disseminate disinformation and sow seeds of division.”

Armed conflict: “The denial of visas to President Abbas and the Palestinian delegation sets a bad precedent and should be deeply worrying to all member nations. Ghana has long recognised the state of Palestine and supported a two-state solution to the conflict. Contrary to the claims of some, a two-state solution would not be a reward for Hamas but, rather, a reprieve for the hundreds of thousands of innocent people who have been facing collective punishment and forced starvation for no reason other than the fact that they are Palestinian.”

Armed conflict: “I want to draw particular attention to the conflict in Sudan, which this body has described as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. Twelve million people have had to flee their homes. When we speak of migration, we refer to the 12 million new refugees, whom we, as a global community, should be willing to assist in much the same way that many member nations readily assisted new refugees from Ukraine.”

Greece
Mr. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Prime Minister
26 September 2025

Militarism: “The Charter of the United Nations was not just a legal document. It was a commitment that never again should force prevail over the rule of law.”

Militarism: “A new global order is on the rise. Multilateralism is under strain and fundamental tenets of the post-1945 world are being questioned. We witness attempts to revive the imperial ambitions of previous centuries. Revisionist narratives are resurging. Some leaders remain trapped in the past, chasing illusions of bygone glory. “Might over right” risks once again becoming the norm in international relations. A norm the international community has sought to overcome for more than eighty years.”

Artificial intelligence: “And this trend is strengthening at a time when global challenges continue to multiply. Climate change. Migration. The advent of artificial intelligence.”

Militarism, war: “Born from the ashes of the Second World War, the European Union has secured peace and prosperity in Europe for generations. But today, we must go further. And in the European Union we are determined to take on a stronger role in our own defence. With war returning to our continent there is simply no other option.”

Missiles, drones, militarism: “Greece has long and consistently advocated for strengthening the EU’s strategic autonomy. We firmly believe that the time has come for joint European borrowing to finance critical European defense projects such as missile and drone defense. Beyond that it is imperative that we make Article 42.7 on the mutual assistance clause truly operational.”

Armed conflict: “Today we are witnessing the highest number of armed conflicts since the end of the Second World War. Conflicts that claim tens of thousands of civilian lives each year. Conflicts that leave behind mass destruction, shattered societies, and displaced millions. And the prospects, if we fail to act, are even grimmer. A future of escalating violence and deepening instability.”

War, ceasefire: “Nowhere is this urgency more evident than in Gaza. Greece has from the first day after the heinous attacks of October 7th, 2023 advocated for Israel’s right to defend itself, against a terrorist organization that rejects Israel’s right to exist. We have called for the immediate release of all hostages and a comprehensive cease fire.

“But we have at the same time made very clear that no military targets, no matter how valuable they are, can justify the death of thousands of children, the forced displacement of over a million Palestinians within the Gaza strip, and the humanitarian suffering of the Palestinian people.

“Greece maintains a strategic partnership with Israel. But this does not prevent us from speaking openly and frankly. The continuation of this course of action will ultimately harm Israel’s own interests, leading to an erosion of international support. I tell my Israeli friends that they risk alienating all their remaining friends if they persist on a path that is shattering the potential of a two-state solution.

“Greece will continue to advocate for a two-state solution which envisions the creation of a sovereign, democratic and viable State of Palestine, building its future in peace and security alongside the State of Israel. But we should be lucid about the roadmap towards achieving that elusive goal. Israel’s actions in the West Bank risk creating irreversible situations on the ground. At present, the most necessary is to stop the unnecessary killing and ensure the large-scale and sustainable delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Greece remains committed to working with all our partners towards a roadmap that will achieve this goal and will revive a peace process, offering hope to a region which has suffered so much.”

War, militarism: “The war in Ukraine is already in its 4th year. Ukraine’s courageous resistance to Russia’s aggression stands as a testimony of unparalleled bravery and remarkable resilience. The war in Ukraine is not another regional European conflict. It is a fight for freedom, for democracy, and for dignity itself. It is, above all, a defense of the rules-based global order. We stand firmly and unconditionally with Ukraine in this struggle. And we will continue our unwavering support to the Ukrainian people who have the right to live in peace, in security, and freely determine their own future.”

Ceasefire: “We appreciate President Trump’s efforts to reach peace and we reiterate that a genuine peace process cannot begin without an immediate ceasefire. And let us be even clearer: there can be no peace formula without Ukraine at the table and there can be no acceptance, under any circumstances, of borders redrawn by force.”

War: “Gaza and Ukraine have monopolized the interest of this assembly but another humanitarian catastrophe is unfolding and, unfortunately, does not receive the attention it deserves. I am referring to Sudan. Two and half years into a devastating war, civilians are paying the highest price. Millions are left without safety, dignity, or protection. The figures are horrifying: Almost 12 million people have been forced from their homes, creating the world’s largest displacement crisis. More than 30 million require humanitarian aid. Famine is spreading. Civilians must be protected. Humanitarian aid must flow freely and without obstruction. And those responsible for atrocities and war crimes must be held to account. There is only one path forward: silence the guns, and renew a coordinated political process.”

War, weapons, militarism: “Türkiye must remove the threat of war that still hangs as a dark cloud over our relations. After thirty years, the casus belli has to be revoked. It has no place in relations between friendly neighbors. Our path forward must be one of diplomacy, not the language of weapons. For 51 years, Cyprus has endured the consequences of Türkiye’s illegal invasion and continued military occupation. A blatant violation of international law and a constant strain to regional peace and security.”

Artificial intelligence: “Last year, I spoke about Artificial Intelligence. and its extraordinary transformatory promise, but I also warned of the dangers it breeds. Today, Greece is pursuing a visionary yet practical AI strategy, through pilot programs in areas such as education, healthcare and natural disaster prevention. Teachers and students will soon engage with custom-designed AI teaching assistants. Digital screenings, telemedicine and predictive diagnostics are already making care more personalized and accessible. At the same, AI is also helping us detect and contain wildfires at their earliest stages. The promise of AI making governments more efficient in serving their citizens is materializing at breakneck speed.

“However, AI in the wrong hands, and without safeguards, can become extremely dangerous. It can severely impact our children’s mental health, flood our public square with disinformation, cause massive displacements in the job market and concentrate immense power in the hands of a few multinational corporations. That is why I welcome the United Nations’s establishment of the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and the Global Dialogue on AI Governance. These institutions lay the foundations of a global architecture where AI can be steered by science and guided by cooperation.

“The most urgent task is to protect the mental health of our children. The scientific evidence in damning. We are running a massive unsupervised experiment with the brains of our children and teenagers. What was once envisioned as a space of connection and creativity has too often become a landscape of manipulation, where harmful content reaches even the youngest users. Addictive scrolling is addictive by design, not by accident. Every time I talk to parents I hear the same story. We are scared about online bullying, adult content, unrealistic standards of beauty, promotion of self-harm. We feel powerless and helpless. We don’t want our kids to share their intimate thoughts and feelings with an AI chatbot.

“Greece has decided to do something. We have banned phones in our schools. But we have also launched Kids Wallett, the first government-backed application giving parents simple, effective controls over their kids’ smartphone while enabling platforms to verify the age of their users. Our proposal for a pan-European Digital Age of Majority to access digital platforms has already won the support of 13 EU Member States, and is examined by the European Commission.

“But this is not a debate for governments and parents alone. Just as society once set firm rules for smoking, drinking, or wearing a seatbelt, we must now confront today’s challenge with equal clarity: big platforms can no longer profit at the expense of our children’s mental health. A business model built capturing our kids’ attention through addictive algorithms that feed them what can justifiably be labeled as digital junk is simply not acceptable. Let me repeat what I said last year. Digital technology is no different than any other industry that needs to operate under health and safety regulations. The overarching principle, the golden standard is one and the same: Do no harm.”

Grenada
Mr. Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister
27 September 2025

Armed conflict: “We meet today in a time of paradox. The headlines tell us of division, instability, and conflict. Yet, never have human beings had such access to innovation, creativity, and opportunity. In one corner of the world, classrooms are reduced to rubble. In another, laboratories create breakthroughs in science and technology that can transform our future.”

Artificial intelligence: “In one hemisphere, children walk miles to fetch water before school. In another, children are using artificial intelligence in their lessons. A further paradox.”

Artificial intelligence: “Across the Caribbean Community, we are investing in skills for the new economy, such as digital literacy, renewable energy, climate adaptation and advanced technologies. In the case of advanced technologies, we are considering the teaching, understanding and use of AI and AI-related skills to enhance education access, delivery and outcome, as we understand that the jobs of tomorrow cannot be met with the skills of yesterday.”

War, armed conflict: , weapons: “And yet, Madam President, we must also speak honestly of the shadows that darken our world today. Wars rage. Economies falter. Communities fracture. And amid this turbulence, it is children who bear the heaviest burden. When a school is reduced to rubble, when a teacher is silenced, when a family is forced to flee in fear, education becomes the first casualty of conflict. And when education is taken away, it is not only opportunity that dies, but hope itself.”

Armed conflict: “That is why I say to this assembly: protecting education in times of conflict must be treated as a pillar of peacebuilding. Just as we rush to shelter the displaced and heal the wounded, we must also safeguard classrooms and teachers. Just as we protect hospitals, so too must we protect schools. Because, whether that child is in Palestine, in Haiti, in Sudan, or in Ukraine, their right to learn is as sacred as the right to life itself.”

War, armed conflict: “From Guyana and Venezuela to Belize and Guatemala, from Haiti’s turmoil to the wars in Israel and Palestine, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, we see conflicts that have, as another casualty, the education of children. All children. Not the children of one side or another, but of all. I urge all parties, regardless of history or grievance, to come to the table in a shared realisation that no child’s classroom should be traded for a battlefield, and no young mind should be collateral damage of political disputes. Dialogue is not weakness; it is the highest form of courage. It is the choice to preserve learning, to preserve hope, and to preserve the possibility of peace.”

Guinea
Mr. Amara Camara, Minister of State, Secretary-General of the Presidency
27 September 2025

War: “Unfortunately, this hope tends to give way to concern. For it is now clear that the world is in turmoil, with no continent spared: - peace is becoming a luxury, - wars and conflicts are becoming commonplace, - international and regional organizations are weakening,- and alliances too often depend on the will of the leaders of the moment. At this rate, we must have the courage to admit that the best years of our common organization may well be behind us.”

Guinea-Bissau
Mr. Úmaro Sissoco Embaló, President
25 September 2025

Armed conflict: “We are witnessing what Secretary-General António Guterres has called “polycrisis”. Conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, and other regions persist.”

Guatemala
Mr. César Bernardo Arévalo de León President
25 September 2025

War: “Today, the shadows of war loom once again on the horizon, and military abuses committed against vulnerable communities offend humanity as a whole. The current crisis is a reality check, for it is clear that we have not done enough to achieve the ideal of a world where the life and dignity of all people are unquestionably respected. We must remember the transformative momentum of 1945 and the courage of those leaders who dared to believe that a world of peace, justice, solidarity, and harmony was possible, and began working to build it.”

War: “This search for legitimacy must not be a hindrance or an excuse to delay the necessary actions. The United Nations has failed to fulfill its mandate to act when a military apparatus devastates individuals, families, communities, and entire populations in the name of security and sovereignty, as is happening right now in Ukraine, Sudan, and Gaza. We must immediately stop the attacks and ensure that humanitarian aid reaches all territories at war. We must put an end to the invasion of Ukraine. An end to the war in Sudan. A complete end to the suffering and death of civilians in Gaza. We also call for the immediate and unconditional release of hostages. Guatemala, consistent with the position it has held since 1947, calls for a return to the search for a peaceful solution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine, one that guarantees the existence of a state for the Palestinian people and allows them to coexist peacefully with the State of Israel.”

Guyana
Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President
24 September 2025

Armed conflict: “Conflicts are raging as geopolitical tensions intensify, food insecurity is worsening, displacement is growing, human rights are being ignored, and climate change is threatening lives and livelihoods.”

Military spending: “Our Sustainable Development Goals are imperiled by shrinking development and budget support! Spending on peacekeeping budgets is diminishing and humanitarian costs are soaring. Meanwhile, global military spending in 2024 saw its steepest annual increase since the Cold War.”

Militarism: “The United Nations’ noble mission to maintain international peace and security will ring hollow if it allows power to triumph over principle and might to override right. In remaining faithful to its Charter, the United Nations must ensure that the survival and progress of humanity are not mortgaged to the ambitions of the powerful.”

Armed conflict, cyber: “At present, a dark shadow looms over this 80th Session of the General Assembly; Genocide in Palestine, annexation of Ukrainian territory, persecution of women in Afghanistan, humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan, brutal gang violence in Haiti, increased transnational organized crime, trafficking and illegal migration. All this, as new challenges are emerging - cybercrime, cyber terrorism, and the pandemic of misinformation and disinformation, alongside the abuse of social media.”

War, explosive weapons, small arms and light weapons: “Whilst we reiterate our condemnation of the attacks by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023 and again call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, Israel’s actions have long shattered any pretense of legitimate self-defense. What we are witnessing is not warfare, but mass extermination—a systematic slaughter and displacement of Palestinian men, women, and children. Those who escape the bombs and bullets are condemned to die slowly, starved of food, water, and hope. This is a war crime.

“The international community must not remain paralysed, while an entire people is annihilated. Impunity must never triumph over justice. We must take urgent action to halt the genocide, return the hostages and accelerate our efforts towards the Two-State Solution. We urge Qatar, Egypt and the United States to continue their efforts in this regard.”

Armed conflict: “Further, the situation in Ukraine remains of utmost concern. Guyana reiterates its call for an end to the Russia-Ukraine war and reaffirms its support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Arms embargo: “Equally, the international community must act decisively in Haiti, where gang violence, displacement, and shortages of food and medicine have pushed the nation into deepening despair. Restoring security is the foremost priority, requiring strict enforcement of the arms embargo and robust support for a UN-authorized mission.”

Artificial intelligence: “Guyana is pursuing an ambitious energy infrastructure and investment plan. While climate change is an existential threat, the reality is that the world still requires energy, sourced from petroleum to power growth and development, for which there is growing demand. This is essential for the survival of our economies. AI and digitization are accelerating this demand at an extraordinary pace.”

“We will use our vast gas reserves, through a transformational gas to energy project. We will use this resource, taking advantage of our strategic geographic location to establish an AI hyperscale data center. Large AI data centers are rarely found in similar sized territories. As such, implementing a project of this scale is of immense pride for Guyana. This investment will improve the competitiveness of our region, accelerate digitization, build out a fintech ecosystem, modernize the service delivery platform of government and accelerate private investment, bringing new job opportunities.

“We recognize the indispensable nature of AI in our collective future. However, while there are immense benefits, there is no clarity on equity, access and applicability. Regulations, ethical standards and governance mechanisms are urgently needed. In this regard, we welcome the recent UN General Assembly decision to establish two global AI governance mechanisms.”

Militarism, armed conflict: “If the UN is to remain humanity’s best hope, it must stand firm against aggression and remain fully engaged with the great questions of our time. We must be bold in recognizing the necessity for institutional adjustments that will advance the organization’s success. Our generation will be judged not by the eloquence of our declarations, but by the substance of our deeds. From the ruins of Gaza to the streets of Haiti, from Kiev to the drowning coasts of small island states, the peoples of the world cry out for more than words.”