During the ASEAN-UN summit in Laos, UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for peace in Lebanon, citing escalating conflicts as a threat to global security. He condemned Israeli attacks on UN personnel and urged ASEAN leaders to help foster stability in Myanmar, stressing the need for an inclusive political solution.
At the recent ASEAN-UN summit held in Laos, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the urgent need for peace in Lebanon amid escalating conflicts in the Middle East, which he identified as a significant threat to global security. “We see an enormous tragedy in Lebanon, and we must do everything to avoid an all-out war in Lebanon,” he asserted during a press conference. He condemned the Israeli attacks that had resulted in injuries to UN personnel, stating that the actions were intolerable. He called for solidarity with wounded peacekeepers and underlined the importance of maintaining their safety and well-being. In addition to discussing the situation in Lebanon, Secretary-General Guterres addressed the ongoing crisis in Myanmar. He urged the ASEAN leaders to leverage their influence to foster peace and stability in the nation, highlighting the necessity of an inclusive political solution to the conflict. “The people of Myanmar need peace, and I call on all countries to leverage their influence towards an inclusive political solution to the conflict,” he remarked. Guterres also expressed solidarity with Indonesian peacekeepers injured as a result of the Lebanon conflict. Leaders from the ten ASEAN member states convened in Laos to address a spectrum of regional and global issues alongside their counterparts from major countries, including the United States and China.
The role of the United Nations Secretary-General encompasses addressing global crises and advocating for peace and stability in regions affected by conflict. The Middle East, particularly Lebanon, has been a focal point of concern due to its complex geopolitical situation, marked by violent escalations and humanitarian crises. The United Nations has been involved in peacekeeping efforts, emphasizing the importance of protecting personnel engaged in these missions. Similarly, the situation in Myanmar remains a critical humanitarian and political issue following a coup that has led to widespread unrest and demands for a peaceful resolution. The ASEAN summit serves as a platform for regional cooperation and dialogue, pivotal for addressing such crises.
Secretary-General António Guterres underscored the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to avert conflict in Lebanon and to promote peace in Myanmar at the ASEAN-UN summit in Laos. His calls for solidarity with wounded peacekeepers and advocacy for an inclusive political dialogue reflect the UN’s ongoing commitment to global peace and security, highlighting the responsibility of regional leaders to act decisively in addressing these pressing issues.
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