UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres emphasized the potential of the world to tackle the climate crisis and growing inequality, highlighting the importance of cooperation in addressing these pressing challenges. In a statement on Tuesday, Mr. Guterres expressed concerns about the increasing divisions and geopolitical tensions, emphasizing the need for unity to overcome these obstacles.
He made these remarks during his address to the Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), which holds the distinction of being the world’s largest regional security organization in terms of landmass and population.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addressed the Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), highlighting the world’s potential to address the climate crisis and growing inequality through cooperation.
The SCO consists of China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and new member Iran. Mr. Guterres acknowledged the increasing divisions caused by different responses to global crises, security threats, COVID consequences, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He emphasized the need for dialogue and cooperation to address global challenges.
The three main areas where he believes Member States can unite for solutions are the climate crisis, the regulation of new technologies, and addressing rising inequality.
Mr. Guterres called for collective action to combat climate change, regulate emerging technologies, and reduce global inequalities. He also highlighted the SCO’s potential to promote peace and security in Eurasia and counter violent extremism and terrorism.
The Secretary-General urged strong engagement from states in upcoming summits and emphasized the importance of working together for global solutions that advance peace, security, sustainable development, and human rights for all.