Fiji’s President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere expressed that the ‘Summit of the Future’ serves as a crucial opportunity for both Fiji and the global community to reinforce their commitment to protecting humanity’s future. During his address at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, he emphasized that the pact established at the summit signifies a collective pledge to work collaboratively and ensure that no one is left behind.
With the theme “Summit of the Future; Multilateral Solutions for Better Tomorrow,” President Katonivere pointed out the current perilous state of the world. He noted that conflicts are ongoing, the climate crisis is worsening, development is faltering, ecosystems are deteriorating, and inequality and injustice are widespread.
He stated, “It is the most vulnerable who are suffering the consequences. Tomorrow it will be our children, their children, and succeeding generations who will pay the price of our inaction.” President Katonivere highlighted the shared vision for a sustainable future, stressing that the success of this vision relies on the collective actions taken within the next six years to advance the Sustainable Development Agenda.
The President called on global leaders to collaborate effectively as member states, under a multilateral system that encompasses non-state actors, the private sector, and all members of society. He urged, “We must choose peace over conflict and respect all human rights, as enshrined in the UN Charter. We must respect and protect our environment and its resources on land, in the sea, and in the air.”