Statement of SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE at UNGA73

“We emphasize the fact that Your Excellency is only the fourth woman to undertake such a noble function and we hope this number to increase in the future in the name of a greater inclusion of women in positions of such importance in the Organization.”

“If we really want peaceful, equitable and sustainable societies, our efforts must continue to be conducted… to mitigate the effects of the current armed conflicts existing throughout the world, and to prevent the emergence and escalation of regional tensions... We therefore launch from this tribune a strong appeal to continue the dialogue aiming the peaceful resolution of tensions that are occurring all over the planet, areas of conflict that keep claiming thousands of innocent lives, in particular the conflict in Syria.”

“In the same way, we also salute the Democratic Republic of Congo by convening the general elections scheduled for December this year, and we formulate warm vows for them to be transparent and fair and conducted in a peaceful and harmonious environment.”

“We appeal for the dialogue and the continuation of negotiations to find a peaceful and negotiated solution in respecting to the right of the Palestinian people to conduct their own destiny, accordingly with the fundamental principles of international law.”

“Our Organization must indeed assume its global leadership role...in the unceasing pursuit of peaceful solutions to the conflicts that continue to exist in the world;... in reducing inequalities; in promoting gender equality and equity policies;...and in the uncompromising defense of peace and human rights.”