New york: President Joo Louren§o of Angola, who also serves as the African Union Chairperson, is set to address the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday during the 80th Session's general debate. The event, which concludes on September 29, will see President Louren§o speaking in the afternoon session.
According to Angola Press News Agency, President Louren§o has been in New York since Saturday, accompanied by First Lady Ana Dias Louren§o and several members of his government. His visit has been marked by a series of diplomatic engagements, including participation in side events, bilateral meetings, and discussions with various world leaders. As part of the protocol, UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres will host a welcome reception for attending Heads of State and Government, Kings, and Princes.
The opening session will feature Guterres presenting his report on the organization's status amidst current international challenges, focusing on the UN Charter's three pillars: international peace and security, economic and social development, and humanitarian assistance and human rights. Annalena Baerbock, Chairperson of the 80th General Assembly, along with leaders such as Brazil's Lula da Silva and the USA's Donald Trump, will also deliver speeches.
The 80th Session, themed "Better Together: 80 Years for Peace, Development, and Human Rights," comes at a time of increased political polarization and concerns about the United Nations' effectiveness, particularly the Security Council's role in addressing global crises. These issues highlight the body's vulnerabilities and structural weaknesses in maintaining international peace and security.
As the UN commemorates its 80th anniversary, the world faces critical challenges, including wars and violations of international law by major powers. Discussions at the assembly will also focus on sustainable development and climate change, alongside the worsening global macroeconomic situation. This economic strain is evidenced by rising extreme poverty due to a debt crisis, increasing food prices, supply chain disruptions, reduced development aid, and ongoing COVID-19 impacts.