Discussing global crises, including the situation in the Gaza Strip and the Russian-Ukrainian war - the 79th session of the UN General Assembly begins in New York on September 24 - NAnews

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On September 24, 2024, the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, one of the largest and most important diplomatic events of the year, will begin in New York and will last until September 30.

Key participants will include leaders of major world powers such as US President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and likely Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

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This year, 133 heads of state, 3 vice presidents, 80 deputy prime ministers and 45 ministers are expected to attend.

The official opening of the session will be held by UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

The main topics for discussion will be global challenges of our time, including the Russian-Ukrainian war, the situation in the Gaza Strip, climate change, the food crisis, global health, and the fight against poverty and inequality. Much attention will also be paid to promoting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially against the backdrop of current conflicts and crises. An important part of the meeting will be the Future Summit, which will take place before the high-level general debate and will be aimed at reforming the work of the UN to increase its effectiveness. As part of the session, from September 23 to 27, there will be an SDG Media Zone – a series of interviews and dialogues covering issues of concern to the global community.

As for the participation of Israel and Ukraine, in connection with the aggravation of the situation on Israel's northern borders, Netanyahu is considering the possibility of shortening his trip or even refusing to participate. Among the alternatives being discussed is the possibility of Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer or Foreign Minister Israel Katz speaking instead. In the worst case, Israel's Permanent Representative Danny Danon will speak from the UN podium.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will take an active part in the session, with his speech expected on the morning of September 25. During his visit to New York, Zelensky is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with world leaders, including Biden, Macron and others. After New York, Zelensky will travel to Washington for talks with the US President and Vice President Kamala Harris. He intends to present a “winning plan” in the war against Russia and discuss further assistance to Ukraine in the areas of defense and reconstruction.

At the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, Russia will be represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Traditionally, Lavrov speaks at such events, representing the Russian side. He is expected to raise issues related to Russia's position on international conflicts, including the Russian-Ukrainian war, where Russia continues to claim that its actions are justified by “protecting national interests” and “fighting Western influence.”

As for his arrival in New York, despite the sanctions and isolation imposed on Russia due to its aggression against Ukraine, high-ranking diplomats such as Lavrov can still attend such events as part of their official international obligations. The United States, as a host country, is obliged to provide visas to representatives of all UN member states, including Russia, which allows Lavrov to attend the General Assembly. However, his presence has drawn criticism, especially from Western countries and Ukraine, which see Russia's participation in international diplomatic events as a contradiction in the context of ongoing aggression and war crimes committed on Ukrainian territory.

Some countries and members of the international community are openly expressing dissatisfaction with the fact that Russia, responsible for destructive actions in Ukraine and support for authoritarian regimes, continues to participate in such high-level international forums. Lavrov will face criticism and diplomatic pressure over Russia’s actions during meetings and behind-the-scenes meetings.

Thus, the 79th session of the UN General Assembly will become an arena for discussing key global issues and diplomatic decisions that can affect the future of the entire planet.

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