Palestine takes place among UN member states in 'historic moment' at opening session of General Assembly
NEW YORK CITY: Palestine took its place among UN members at the opening session of the organization's General Assembly on Tuesday.
A UN resolution was passed in May recognizing that Palestine meets the requirements for membership and called on the Security Council to reconsider admitting the state.
Palestine was granted additional rights at the UN, including sitting with member states, the right to introduce proposals and agenda items, and to participate in committees, but was not granted the right to vote.
Tuesday's symbolic event was supported by the Egyptian delegation, which tabled a point of order to highlight the “historic moment”, but was opposed by the Israelis, who raised a counterpoint of order.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the 79th session was opening against a “world in trouble” but stressed that member states could work together to do something about it.
He said: “From day one, the United Nations has been the place for multilateral solutions based on collaboration, dialogue, diplomacy and the Charter of the United Nations.
“And it was where respect for one another, and for the dignity and human rights that belong to every member of the human family, is brought to life. As we welcome this 79th session, these tasks now fall to you.
“This is where solutions are made, and we need solutions across the board.”
Member state delegates line up to greet Riyad Mansour, top right, Palestinian ambassador to the United Nations, as he arrives for the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly. (AP)
He has covered a range of topics including economic progress, climate change and artificial intelligence.
He added: “Step by step, solution by solution, we can rebuild trust and confidence in each other and in what we can achieve through collaboration and solidarity.
“The values that have united us since 1945 are more essential than ever. In confronting the challenges that confront us, (the UN General Assembly) remains an indispensable tool and a vital path to a peaceful and just future for all people.”
The session was chaired by Philemon Yang of Cameroon, who was elected President of the General Assembly earlier this year.
Yang outlined topics expected to dominate discussions at this year's gathering, including working for peace and security, climate change, sustainable development, global health and human rights.
This year's general debate, which will take place from 24 to 30 September, has the theme “Leaving no one behind: acting together to promote peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations”.
In addition to the debate, there will be a Future Summit, which will aim to secure a negotiated “Pact for the Future” aimed at boosting global cooperation to effectively address today's challenges for future generations.
There will also be high-level meetings on topics as wide-ranging as the elimination of nuclear weapons; addressing the threat posed by sea level rise; and strengthening global health systems against antimicrobial resistance.
