Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen,

On behalf of the Group of 77 and China, I am honored to address this esteemed gathering on the occasion of the Opening Ceremony of the International Year of Peace and Trust. This initiative, proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution 78/266, reaffirms the fundamental role of peace and trust as pillars of sustainable development and the cornerstone of international cooperation.

Today, we gather at a pivotal moment, as the international community faces growing challenges to peace and stability, including persistent conflicts, inequalities, climate change, and the far-reaching impacts of the pandemic. These interconnected crises underline the urgent need to strengthen multilateralism and foster a culture of dialogue, mutual understanding, and trust among nations.

The Group of 77 and China firmly believes that peace is not merely the absence of war but a comprehensive process that encompasses social justice, equitable development, and respect for the sovereignty and independence of all nations. To this end, we emphasize the critical importance of addressing the root causes of conflict, including poverty, discrimination, foreign occupation, and the marginalization of people in vulnerable situations.

Excellencies,

As we embark on this International Year of Peace and Trust, the Group of 77 and China call for renewed commitments from the global community to the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter. We urge Member States to prioritize implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as its transformative framework provides a pathway to achieving lasting peace and stability through inclusive development.

Moreover, we welcome the introduction of the Roadmap for the International Year of Peace and Trust, which outlines concrete activities to strengthen political dialogue, foster international solidarity, and enhance cooperation in addressing global challenges. The Group of 77 and China stand ready to support these efforts and collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of this ambitious agenda.

In closing, let me reaffirm the unwavering commitment of the Group of 77 and China to the ideals of peace, trust, and multilateral cooperation. Together, let us seize this opportunity to advance a world free of conflict, characterized by harmony, equity, and shared prosperity.

Thank you.