Address by His Excellency David W. Panuelo -- Occasion of the 75th Anniversary of the United Nations

Mr. Secretary General, Excellencies, & Friends

In September 1991, my country, the Federated States of Micronesia, proudly joined this United Nations. We believed then, as we do now, that the United Nations was the best solution to many of the challenges we face.

Since its founding 75 years ago, this United Nations has managed to keep peace and security throughout the World. But security in 2020 is no longer just about formal wars between nations. Security also includes abstract threats—such as COVID-19 and Climate Change. We must live up to the promises of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda to upholding truly sustainable development that captures the transformative VISION where People, Planet, Peace, Prosperity, and Partnership is placed at the center of our work.

This 75th anniversary coincides with the start of the Decade of Action to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals, and the ever-present challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic. I share the sentiments that the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda is our World’s best blueprint to address the COVID-19 pandemic, recover from it, and build more equitable and sustainable societies towards 2030.

Mr. Secretary-General,

There are opportunities to build back a greener and bluer world. As custodians of the Blue Continent, and for us in Micronesia, we continue to do our part to ensure that the Paradise in our Backyards remains tranquil. But we have also realized that on an inter-dependent Planet, our actions alone are not enough. Those that have caused this Climate Crisis need to step up and lead by taking more ambitious and mitigating actions, and providing the means of implementation. It is still within our reach to leave a habitable planet for future generations.

While the journey of our United Nations has not always been steady, it is the single-most useful multilateral Organization in promoting global solidarity, peace, and security. There are both achievements to celebrate and hard lessons to build upon.

Much work remains ahead, but we have hope, and we take ownership, in this organization and its potential. We BELIEVE, with every part of our hearts and minds, that we can collectively shape the future we want, and the United Nations we need.

Happy 75th Anniversary to our United Nations and all of our friends around the world.

Mr. Secretary-General, Thank you and Congratulations.