“On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the entry into force of the United Nations Charter, I would like to express my warmest congratulations.
On this anniversary, we are called to reflect on the role of this Organization in achieving its declared goals, notably the maintenance of international peace and security, the development of friendly relations among nations, respect for fundamental human rights for all and promotion of the economic and social advancement of all peoples.
From the ashes of the devastating World War II, the United Nations embodied our shared commitment to uphold the rule of law, foster multilateral cooperation and safeguard the fundamental dignity of every human being. It embodied our hope for a shared humanity.
For 8 decades the UN has defended peace, promoted human rights, including women rights, and gender equality, redressed historical injustices through the process of decolonization and had a real transformative effect in reducing famine and in the education and health sectors.
These achievements were very important, but as shown by recent developments they remain fragile.
The ongoing illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine, as well as the challenge of a sustainable peace in the Middle East and Gaza, are, among other conflicts, a grave reminder that peace and security should not be taken for granted. In this vein, the contribution of the United Nations in peacemaking in various crises, inter alia in the Cyprus issue, is extremely valuable.
Greece, as a founding member and a nation deeply committed to the ideals of democracy and respect for international law, has always been a staunch supporter of the United Nations. We firmly believe in the necessity of effective multilateralism, especially at a time when peace and security are threatened by a range of multiple and multifaceted crises. In this context, the active role of the United Nations in current global affairs has become more crucial than ever.
It is in this conviction that Greece began its current tenure as an elected member of the UN Security Council, for the 2025-2026 term. We approach this role with a great sense of duty and dedication, working in close cooperation with other nations to promote the peaceful settlement of disputes, respect for international law and the rules and principles of the UN Charter, while also prioritizing the women – peace- and -security agenda, the climate change and security nexus, children in armed conflict and maritime security. We sincerely thank you for your continued support and your leadership that continues to inspire our endeavors to vigorously promote our priorities.
Your Excellency, as we celebrate the UN’s enduring legacy, we are reminded that the world has changed dramatically in the last 80 years and we fully acknowledge the urgent need for the Organization’s evolution. We commend your dedication to the comprehensive reform of the UN and welcome your “UN80” initiative, as a timely effort to enhance the relevance and effectiveness of the United Nations in the 21st century.
Greece stands ready to contribute actively to this vital reform process convinced that a reformed and strengthened United Nations is essential to fulfilling its mandate more effectively, addressing the root causes of conflict and suffering, and truly serving “us, the Peoples of the United Nations”.
