The high-level week of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly has concluded in New York. Heads of state, heads of government, and other delegations from 193 countries discussed global issues at this forum, which took place from September 22 to 28.
Held this year under the theme “Restoring trust, managing change: an effective UN for all,” the event addressed critical global issues such as climate change, the future of artificial intelligence, development, and inequality. This forum also marked the final General Assembly appearance for UN Secretary-General António Guterres as his ten-year tenure draws to a close; at the end of his address, he was met with prolonged applause from the delegates.
According to Melissa Summers, spokesperson for the President of the General Assembly, all member states—with the exception of Myanmar and Afghanistan—delivered addresses during this year’s session; participants included 113 heads of state and government, as well as other high-level representatives. Sixty percent of the speakers touched upon the issue of artificial intelligence, while one-third expressed concerns regarding climate change. During the week, the UN Secretary-General held 147 bilateral meetings, while the President of the General Assembly held 95.
The General Assembly session, held annually in September at the UN headquarters in New York, serves as one of the largest diplomatic platforms where world leaders articulate their countries’ priorities and engage in multilateral meetings. It was noted that approximately 18,000 active accreditation cards were issued to delegates for this significant diplomatic event, which drew the attention of the global community. This underscores the event’s vast global scope and importance.
