The President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere has urged world leaders to urgently reshape international cooperation amidst a series of escalating global crises.
In his address at the Summit of the Future, President Katonivere highlighted the multiple challenges facing the world today, including conflicts, climate change, stalled development, and failing ecosystems, with the most vulnerable populations suffering the consequences.
“The world is in peril,” he stressed.
“Conflicts are raging; the climate crisis is escalating; development is faltering, our ecosystems are failing, whilst inequalities and injustices are everywhere.”
President Katonivere warned that future generations will bear the brunt of today’s inaction.
“Tomorrow it will be our children, their children, and succeeding generations who will pay the price of our inaction.”
The President stressed the importance of multilateralism in addressing these global challenges, noting the urgency of collective efforts.
“In the face of pressing global challenges, the values of multilateralism has never been more relevant and more urgent,” he highlighted.
Fiji, he said, views the Summit of the Future as to “strengthen our resolve and consensus on safeguarding the future of humanity.”
He also welcomed the anticipated adoption of the Pact of the Future, which he described as “our collective commitment to do better – together and leave no one behind.”
“We have a common vision for a sustainable future. How we achieve this vision will depend on the efforts we undertake.”
With only six years remaining until 2030 to make meaningful progress on the Sustainable Development Agenda, President Katonivere called for inclusive action and reform of the multilateral system.
“We must urgently recalibrate international cooperation, and reform the multilateral system. We must be intentionally inclusive,” he urged.
He further stressed the need for partnerships that include non-state actors, the private sector, and broader society.
“We must work together as Member States, supported by a multilateral system that is fit for purpose.”
President Katonivere highlighted the importance of choosing peace over conflict and respecting human rights as enshrined in the UN Charter and called for a renewed commitment to environmental protection and global trust-building.
“We must respect and protect our environment and its resources, on land, in the sea and in the air.
“We must trust each other. Trust is the foundation of strong partnerships. We must be true to our word.
“Our legacy for the generations of tomorrow depends on the actions we undertake today. We must do better – for them,” he said, reinforcing the urgency of immediate global action.
