Maputo, Sept 25 (AIM) – Mozambican President Daniel Chapo has called for a renewed commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation, stating that the founding principles of the United Nations remain essential for addressing today’s global challenges.
Addressing the General Debate of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly in New York, Chapo recalled that humanity chose cooperation over confrontation, law over force, and hope over fear following the devastation of war. He emphasized that this historic choice protected millions of lives and gave a voice to peoples previously excluded from international decision-making.
However, Chapo warned that the international system is now facing one of its most severe tests, “driven by prolonged conflicts, geopolitical rivalries, humanitarian crises, climate shocks, terrorism, and transnational organized crime alongside rapid technological and economic shifts.”
“Restoring trust means renewing the promise made, 81 years ago, to us, the peoples,” Chapo said, stressing that confidence in multilateral institutions depends on aligning decisions with international law and delivering tangible improvements to people’s lives.
Chapo reaffirmed Mozambique’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution, state sovereignty, and human rights.
On the Middle East, he reiterated Maputo’s support for a two-state solution with Palestine and Israel living side by side in peace and security, while also reaffirming support for the self-determination of the Sahrawi people.
Turning to international sanctions, Chapo expressed Mozambique’s opposition to unilateral coercive measures, calling for an end to the economic, commercial, and financial blockade against Cuba. He also voiced solidarity with Zimbabwe, demanding the lifting of sanctions against Harare and other targeted nations.
On global development, Chapo warned that the world remains off track to achieve the 2030 Agenda. He urged the international community to deliver predictable financing, debt relief, technology transfer, fairer trade, and an overhaul of the global financial architecture.
Regarding human rights, Chapo advocated “a balanced, impartial approach rooted in constructive dialogue, equal treatment, and institutional strengthening.”
Addressing national affairs, Chapo assured the Assembly that “Mozambique remains dedicated to consolidating peace, strengthening democratic institutions, and advancing an Inclusive National Dialogue to deepen reconciliation and institutional reforms under national ownership.”
On the security situation in the Northern Province of Cabo Delgado, Chapo noted significant progress against terrorism through joint operations by Mozambique’s Defence and Security Forces, SADC, the European Union, Rwanda, and Tanzania.
However, he acknowledged that stabilization remains incomplete, calling for sustained international cooperation and a concerted global response.
(AIM)
Mz/Zt/Am/
