Investment in peace while upholding international law and a rules-based international system could make La Francophonie bloc a better place to live in, UN secretary General Antonio Gutteres said on Sunday.
“As your theme reminds us, peace is our best investment,” Guterres told Francophonie leaders in a video message.
This was Gutteres’ final address to the organization as secretary-general before leaving office.
The UN secretary General Guterres warned that global military spending is now 13 times greater than development aid.
“The world is arming itself at great cost while rationing peace,” he said, adding that too many countries are being forced to choose between repaying their debts and serving their populations.
“Reinvesting in peace means supporting diplomacy, upholding international law, and sharing prosperity.”
Guterres advocates for including women and young people in decision-making processes and strengthening multilateralism.
“That starts with permanent seats for Africa on the Security Council and a fair international financial system,” he said.
“I address you for the last time as Secretary-General of the United Nations. You have been a valuable partner in the pursuit of peace, sustainable development, human rights, and multilingualism,” he said.
