Deputy PM to Attend UNGA
Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden is set to spearhead the United Kingdom’s delegation to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level Week in New York. As global leaders gather, the UK aims to reaffirm its commitment to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while addressing pressing international issues.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly is joining the delegation, emphasizing the need for collective action on a range of global challenges.
Pledging UK’s Commitment to SDGs
Dowden and his ministerial counterparts will illuminate the UK’s dedication to achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. These goals, devised to foster a more equitable, healthier, and prosperous world by 2030, remain a paramount focus for the UK.
the midpoint between the SDGs’ launch in 2015 and their 2030 deadline approaches, the UK delegation emphasizes the urgent need for countries to actively recommit to these goals, thus fostering a healthier, fairer, and more prosperous world.
Diplomatic Engagements on the Agenda
Foreign Secretary Cleverly is already on the ground in New York, having arrived on Sunday. His itinerary includes meetings with counterparts from the US, France, Egypt, Barbados, and Indonesia. He will also partake in discussions at the G7 and migration meetings.
Urgent Call to Reaffirm SDGs
Deputy Prime Minister Dowden is set to deliver a crucial message at the UNGA. He will implore the international community to renew its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As he takes the podium, Dowden will underscore that visible and vocal recommitment to these goals is indispensable in making the world healthier, fairer, and more prosperous.
Addressing Security and Multilateralism
Dowden’s schedule includes attendance at the UN Security Council sessions, where he will assert unwavering support for Ukraine and hold Russia accountable for its illegal actions, both in Ukraine and its attempts to undermine global food supplies and security. These actions have led to untold suffering in some of the world’s most impoverished nations.
Promoting Responsible AI and Global Health
Furthermore, the Deputy Prime Minister will address the General Assembly on the subject of revolutionary technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI). His message will emphasize the need for global cooperation to ensure the equitable distribution of AI benefits while preventing misuse. Meetings with leading tech companies and discussions on AI regulation are also on the agenda.
The Deputy Prime Minister’s visit will extend to UN meetings focused on enhancing global health and unveiling new UK support for strengthening health systems. Additionally, he will engage in conversations about climate action and increasing global investments in Africa.
Foreign Secretary’s Mission
Foreign Secretary Cleverly’s mission in New York is equally crucial. He will stress the importance of maintaining pressure on Russia, making it unequivocally clear that international backing for Ukraine remains steadfast.
Additionally, key meetings are scheduled with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, and Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi.
Moreover, Cleverly will co-convene an event on Artificial Intelligence (AI) with US Secretary of State Blinken, gathering governments, tech firms, and NGOs to explore how AI can expedite progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. These discussions align with the UK’s forthcoming AI Safety Summit in November.
Leaders’ Statements
Deputy Prime Minister Dowden expressed his enthusiasm about leading the UK delegation, stating,
“I look forward to discussing the challenges and opportunities of AI so that the benefits of this revolutionary technology are felt fairly across the world, and how Britain can be at the forefront of that effort.”
He also announced new support for tackling climate change, boosting global economic growth, and preventing future pandemics.
However, Dowden also addressed the ongoing challenges posed by Russia’s actions in Ukraine, emphasizing the need to strengthen international support for Ukraine’s freedom.
Foreign Secretary Cleverly reinforced the importance of a functioning multilateral system and called for renewed commitment and accelerated delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals. He added, “Putin is counting on the misguided assumption that he can outlast international support for Ukraine. We will not be deterred.”
As the United Nations General Assembly convenes in New York, the UK delegation remains committed to advocating global cooperation on vital issues, ensuring urgency and resolve in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges.
Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Cabinet Office, The Rt Hon Oliver Dowden CBE MP, & The Rt Hon James Cleverly MP.
