New york: Angola recognized on Thursday in New York the progress made by the United Nations in humanitarian assistance, peacekeeping operations, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Speaking at the plenary meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on the Secretary-General's priorities for 2026, Angola's Permanent Representative to the UN, Francisco Jose da Cruz, highlighted the notable progress in climate action and the implementation of the Pact for the Future, including ongoing efforts to rethink the international financial architecture.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the ambassador expressed concern that the Sustainable Development Goals remain unmet. With only four years remaining until 2030, the diplomat noted that many countries face structural constraints hindering their ability to invest in people, protect the most vulnerable, and build resilient economies. High levels of indebtedness, limited access to favorable financing, and persistent asymmetries in the international financial system are significant obstacles to achieving the strategic goal of leaving no one behind.
The diplomat acknowledged progress in gender parity and stressed the importance of achieving more balanced geographical representation in the United Nations system, prioritizing unrepresented and underrepresented countries. On peace and security, Ambassador Francisco Jos© da Cruz reiterated Angola's commitment to conflict prevention and peaceful solutions, particularly in Africa. He emphasized the need for regional ownership, leadership, dialogue, and sustained international support in finding lasting solutions.
He proposed reforms to UN main bodies, especially the Security Council, to better reflect current geopolitical realities and enhance its effectiveness in maintaining international peace and security. The absence of Africa from permanent membership was described as a historical injustice undermining equitable representation and trust in the multilateral system.
In an international context marked by conflict and inequality, UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres emphasized strengthening multilateralism and adhering to the UN Charter and international law as foundations for peace, sustainable development, and human rights. He stressed the urgency of addressing issues such as financing for development, the debt crisis, reforming the international financial architecture, and implementing the Seville Commitment.
Guterres also highlighted the importance of advancing the Pact for the Future and the UN80 initiative to enhance the effectiveness and representativeness of the UN. His priorities include promoting peace with justice, conflict prevention and resolution, civilian protection, and recognizing the intrinsic link between peace, sustainable development, and climate action. He stressed social inclusion, gender equality, youth involvement, and respect for human rights in building cohesive societies.
Immediate actions outlined by Guterres include launching the 'Independent Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence' for impartial assessments of AI's impacts and initiating monthly meetings on the 'UN80 Initiative' to foster dialogue, cooperation, and better equip the UN for future challenges.