The current summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) is being held in the island nation, which consists of over 30 countries.
During the bloc meeting, Mr. Guterres emphasized the importance of solidarity in addressing issues related to peace and security, sustainable development, social cohesion, and climate action both within the region and globally.
‘Peace is possible’
He stated that the countries in Latin America and the Caribbean have demonstrated the potential for coming together in pursuit of peace and making a positive impact.
He discussed the progress made in the peace negotiations in Colombia and the recent joint agreement signed by Guyana and Venezuela with the goal of easing border tensions.
He observed that numerous nations are still afflicted by organized crime.
The leader of the United Nations stated that arms trafficking is now the top security concern for the region. He emphasized that without heightened international teamwork, from the point of origin to the local streets, it will be difficult to effectively combat this issue.
He expressed appreciation for the security collaboration established among Andean nations to support Ecuador and sees the new administration in Guatemala as an opportunity to progress democratic growth, the enforcement of laws, and other important aspects of promoting peace.
Help for Haiti
It was cautioned that the current state of affairs in Haiti is progressively deteriorating, with gangs exerting control and employing sexual violence as a means of oppression.
In October of last year, the United Nations Security Council approved a multinational mission to provide security support for the local police, which will be led by Kenya. At a G20 meeting in Brazil last week, several countries, including CELAC members, pledged additional support during an accompanying event.
He expressed appreciation for the actions taken so far, however stressed the need for additional measures to ensure the prompt execution of this mission and a resolution of the nation’s underlying issues through politics.
Reports state that on Friday, Kenya and Haiti officially agreed to a security deal that will enable the deployment of 1,000 Kenyan police officers. These officers will serve as the main forces for the UN-supported joint mission.
According to reports, President William Ruto of Kenya announced that the recently made deal will allow for the mission to be expedited. The bilateral agreement is a crucial requirement set by the Kenyan High Court to authorize the deployment of police.
Sustainable development stimulus
The Secretary-General stated that the pursuit of sustainable development is at risk, jeopardizing the goal of a fair and equal global future.
At present, there are numerous people in the area dealing with hunger and poverty, while several nations struggle with overwhelming debt.
In September of last year, global leaders approved his plan for $500 billion in yearly funding to promote sustainable development. However, “regrettably, there has been strong opposition.”
He expressed his optimism about the upcoming Summit of the Future at the United Nations Headquarters in September, believing that it will lead to advancements in reforming the unjust, outdated, and inefficient global financial system.
Reworded: The concept of fairness within the context of climate issues and financial matters.
On Thursday, the Secretary-General visited Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and held a press conference in Kingstown. During the conference, he showed support for small island developing States that are leading the battle against climate change.
He urged the G20 nations to take more measures in reducing their greenhouse gas emissions, stating that they hold a significant responsibility as the primary contributors to pollution.
“The need for climate justice is greater, requiring increased financing at affordable rates for adaptation and mitigation in developing countries, with a specific focus on small island developing States,” he stated.
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