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The General Debate of the 78th Session of the General Assembly Commences

19 September 2023

The General Debate of the 78th Session of the General Assembly opened today. A high-level delegation from the Maldives, led by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ahmed Khaleel, attended the opening.

Speaking at the opening, Secretary-General António Guterres stated that amid the complex global challenges, peace is inextricably linked to sustainable development. He called to renew multilateral institutions based on 21st Century economic and political realities, as the way forward to address the global crises. Further, Secretary-General called on world leaders to strengthen efforts to invest in climate action and promote gender equality for effective outcomes. The President of the 78th General Assembly, Dennis Francis, emphasised the need to unite with conviction and solidarity of global action to accelerate progress on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. 

The General Debate of the 78th Session of the General Assembly will be held from Tuesday, 19th September to Tuesday, 26th September. Heads of State and Governments and heads of national delegations will deliver statements at the General Debate under the theme, “Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability for all”. 

As Head of Delegation, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Khaleel is scheduled to deliver the statement from Maldives.

ENDS