Source The United Nations
Media www.rajawalisiber.com – During a stakeout on Thursday (13 July) in Brussels with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres stressed the need for enhanced cooperation and multilateral governance anchored in international law.
In preparation for the annual UN-EU High-Level Dialogue, Guterres held discussions with von der Leyen. He noted that international cooperation is currently facing significant challenges, citing the war in Ukraine, the detrimental impact of climate change on vulnerable nations, the plight of individuals fleeing conflict and poverty, and the uneven economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic that is exacerbating global inequalities and fostering mistrust between the Western and Southern hemispheres.
Their discussions will continue tomorrow and cover topics such as climate ambition, peace and security, the digital transition, the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and international financial architecture.
Earlier in the day, the Secretary-General met with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo and expressed gratitude for Belgium’s commitment to multilateralism. He commended the country’s cooperation in human rights, sustainable development, climate action, and peace and security.
In response to a reporter’s question, Guterres highlighted the importance of preserving global food security and ensuring developing countries access to food and fertilizers at reasonable prices. He affirmed the commitment to extend the Black Sea Initiative and increase the exports of Russian food and fertilizers. Guterres acknowledged sending a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin with proposals in this regard and expressed hope for a positive way forward even though he had not yet received a response.