Saturday June 3, 2023
New York (HOL) - The Chair of the African Group, Abukar Dahir Osman, has outlined the challenges and expectations facing the newly elected President of the 78th UN General Assembly, Dennis Francis.
Osman, who also serves as Somalia's UN ambassador, expressed his hopes for Francis's tenure. "We are hopeful that your wealth of experience would be beneficial in contributing to our collective efforts to safely traverse the journey during and beyond these difficult times," he said, pointing out the critical issues of climate change, food and energy insecurity, and the rise of armed conflicts.
While acknowledging the commendable leadership of outgoing President Csaba Kőrösi, Osman emphasized the need for continuity. He hailed Kőrösi for having "skillfully charted new grounds for exemplary leadership in crises."
In his statement, Osman underscored the key priorities for the upcoming session, including independence, impartiality, and integrity in leadership and the significance of Africa's development.
Reflecting on the African Group's commitment, Osman highlighted the importance of fully implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). "The 17 SDGs constitute a solid blueprint and their complete delivery by 2030 hinges upon adherence to the clarion call by the Secretary-General for the SDG Decade of Action," he stressed.
Osman urged the General Assembly to maintain focus on the global crisis, characterizing it as an existential threat. He further called for a UN commitment to racial equality, advocating for "an intolerance-free UN environment."
Closing his statement, Osman voiced readiness on behalf of the African Group to work closely with the new President: "I would like to congratulate once again [Dennis Francis] and express the readiness of the African Group to work closely with him in the fulfillment of our shared goals."