Palestine is united among the member states of the United Nations in a “historic moment” at the opening session of the General Assembly
New York City: Palestine won its place among the members of the United Nations at the opening session of the organization's General Assembly on Tuesday.
A UN resolution was passed in May that recognized Palestine as a requirement for membership and called on the Security Council to reconsider its admission.
Palestine had more rights in the UN, including presence alongside member states, the right to present proposals and agenda items, and participation in committees, but it was not granted the right to vote.
Tuesday's symbolic event was supported by the Egyptian delegation, which introduced an order to mark the “historic moment,” but was opposed by Israelis.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the 79th session was opening amid a “world in trouble”, but stressed that member states could work together to do something about it.
He said: From the first day, the United Nations was a place for multilateral solutions based on cooperation, dialogue, diplomacy and the United Nations Charter.
“And it has been a place where respect for each other and the dignity and human rights that belong to each member of the human family have come to life. Welcome to this 79th session, these duties are now yours.
“This is where solutions are created, and we need solutions across the board.”
Representatives of member states line up to welcome Riyad Mansour, Palestinian ambassador to the United Nations, above right, as he arrives at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly. (AP)
He addressed various topics including economic development, climate change and artificial intelligence.
He added: Step by step, solution by solution, we can rebuild trust and faith in each other and in what we can achieve through cooperation and solidarity.
The values that have brought us together since 1945 are more essential than ever. In confronting the challenges before us, (the UN General Assembly) remains an essential tool and a vital path towards a peaceful and just future for all people.
The meeting was chaired by Philemon Young of Cameroon, who was elected as the President of the General Assembly earlier this year.
Young outlined the themes he expected to dominate this year's forum, including efforts for peace and security, climate change, sustainable development, global health and human rights.
This year's public debate, which will be held from 24 to 30 September, boasts the theme “Leaving No One Behind: Joint Action to Advance Peace, Sustainable Development and Human Dignity for Current and Future Generations”.
In addition to the debate, there will be a Future Summit, which aims to secure a negotiated “Future Pact” designed to strengthen global cooperation to effectively address current challenges for future generations.
There will also be high-level meetings on broad issues such as the elimination of nuclear weapons. Addressing the threat posed by sea level rise; and strengthening global health systems against antimicrobial resistance.
