WASHINGTON: In a video message for the New Year, the head of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, expressed hope for 2024 and emphasized the need for unity to rebuild trust. Guterres acknowledged that 2023 had been a year of immense suffering, violence, and climate chaos, making it the hottest year on record. He highlighted the challenges faced by humanity, including growing poverty, hunger, and escalating wars.
Guterres emphasized that simply pointing fingers and resorting to violence would not lead to any solutions. Instead, he stressed the importance of standing together as a united global community. He called for collective action in addressing pressing issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and the need for a fairer global financial system that benefits everyone.
The UN chief also raised concerns about the increasing discrimination and hatred that are poisoning relations between countries and communities. He urged the world to stand against these divisive forces and emphasized the potential of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to be harnessed for the greater good.
Guterres reassured that the United Nations would continue to rally the world for peace, sustainable development, and human rights. He called upon everyone to make 2024 a year of building trust and hope, highlighting the importance of collective efforts in achieving common goals.
In conclusion, Guterres wished everyone a happy and peaceful New Year, expressing his optimism for the future and the potential for positive change that lies ahead.
ANADOLU/PNA
Source: The Manila Times
