Today the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly opens in New York. As reported by the UN News Center, on September 17, the Chairperson of the 72nd session, Miroslav Lajčák, transferred his powers to his successor, María Fernanda Espinosa. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, speaking to the delegates, noted that the past year was incredibly eventful. In particular, a number of important issues were discussed: from climate change and intolerance to disarmament and social development. Thus, according to the secretary general, the important role of the General Assembly as a platform for solving the full range of pressing world problems and tasks was demonstrated. António Guterres also annonced that members of the General Assembly adopted a number of important decisions in the field of reform of the UN itself.
Taking the baton, María Fernanda Espinosa, the former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ecuador, highlighted the strengthening of multilateral cooperation and the revitalization of the work of the United Nations. Among other priorities, the diplomat singled out gender equality, migration, the environment, the rights of people with disabilities, peace and security, renewal of the UN system and economic growth.