New Delhi: Vouching for reformed multilateralism in the contemporary world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said today’s challenges cannot be fought with outdated structures.
He also praised the United Nations and said, “world was a better place” because of the UN.
While praising the UN, in his message to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the signing of the United Nations Charter and the adoption of a Commemorative Declaration, Mr Modi said the institution faced a “crisis of confidence.”
Introduced by India’s UN Ambassador TS Tirumurti, Mr Modi delivered his address on Monday via a recorded video – a format the UN has adopted, due to the pandemic.
Mr Modi said the commemorative declaration acknowledged that work needed to be done in conflict prevention, climate change, development and leveraging digital technology.
“The Declaration also acknowledges the need for reform of the United Nations itself. We cannot fight today’s challenges with outdated structures. Without comprehensive reforms, the UN faces a crisis of confidence,” Mr Modi said.
For today’s interconnected world, “we need a reformed multilateralism that reflects today’s realities, gives voice to all stakeholders, addresses contemporary challenges and focuses on human welfare.”
The UN recognised those who had worked for peace under the UN flag including UN peacekeepers and noted India’s contribution to peacekeeping. Yet, the UN’s original mission remained incomplete, he said.
Mr Modi will again address the General Assembly on Saturday as part of the general debate.
