HAMILTON, Canada

The president of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, Philemon Yang, on Tuesday emphasized the need for collective determination and cooperation among member states to address pressing global challenges.

"As with all our priorities, we will be measured by our actions. We cannot succeed alone," Yang said, outlining his agenda for the resumed session.

Calling for unity and support from all member states, Yang said, "My team and I intend to 'walk the talk' and deliver on my promises to you, the member states of the United Nations."

He added that tackling current challenges requires a shared commitment to achieve the UN's established goals.

Yang identified his key priorities, which include promoting peace in Africa, combating the illicit trade in small arms, preserving dignity in armed conflicts, eliminating child labor, enhancing development financing, and advancing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through digital initiatives.

Multilingualism and women's empowerment, he noted, will be central to all initiatives under his leadership. He also announced that the guiding theme of his presidency is "Unity in Diversity, for the advancement of peace, sustainable development, and human dignity for everyone, everywhere."

He pledged to support the implementation of the "Pact for the Future," adopted in September 2024, through a series of three informal dialogues aimed at advancing this agenda.