NEW YORK CITY: The UAE has welcomed the adoption by UN member states of a “Pact for the Future,” a campaign the organization described as bringing multilateralism “back from the brink.”
Speaking at the Summit of the Future on Monday, Emirati Development Minister Ohoud Al-Roumi said the UAE “applauded the efforts made by all” to get the agreement signed.
The pact aims to rebuild trust in the UN and its ability to tackle global crises, as well as renew support for the organization’s Sustainable Development Goals, which were launched in 2015.
The motion to adopt the pact was passed on Monday at the start of the summit, with opposition led by Russia as well as Iran, Sudan and Syria. Several regional countries abstained from the vote, including Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Oman.
“Conflicts and crises are multiplying and are hindering progress and the attainment of peace and international security,” Al-Roumi said.
“Given these increasing challenges, we must focus on the chances and the opportunities offered by international cooperation for a better future.
“The situation across the world requires us to pool our efforts, for us to commit and respect our commitments, in order to overcome these challenges.”
Al-Roumi also said the UN Charter and the principles of multilateralism and international action need to be strengthened.
She added that this has to be coupled with a global focus on youth and women’s empowerment, building a sustainable digital economy, and the proper adoption of modern technology to benefit all.
