Remarks by H.E. Mr. Abdulla Shahid, President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly
29 April 2022
I express my deep gratitude to the President of the Security Council, President of ECOSOC, Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission, Under-Secretary-General for Policy, representatives of international financial institutions (World Bank and IMF) and civil society for their active participation and contributions in today’s High-Level Meeting.?
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Let me reiterate the crucial importance of peacebuilding in the context of the changing nature of conflict, where the costs of responding to crises have become unsustainable, unbearable, unwieldy.?
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The peacebuilding construct is a complex, far-ranging development issue and a long-term process involving social cohesion, economic resilience, and political will.??
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The financial gap we discussed weakens the peacebuilding actions as financing options are too unpredictable, unsustainable and inadequate for programs that are intended to be long-term.??
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We, therefore, need to act collectively to address this global issue, in relation to our collective efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda.??
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Excellencies,?
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Today’s meeting illustrates both the challenges ahead and the innovative solutions we have at our disposal.??
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We need more collaborative action and greater political will to address the critical gaps in peacebuilding financing.?
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Different solutions with value propositions have been pointed out during our rich discussions today, and I am grateful for all your active participation.??
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I hope this meeting will lead to sustained improvements of the peacebuilding financial architecture.?
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Our discussions have been stimulating and constructive.??
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I take note of the different proposals that have been raised. They will be reflected in the summary that will be circulated after this meeting.?
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Let me take this opportunity to thank Peacebuilding Support Office and my team who have been working together to prepare and organize this meeting.?
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Finally, I would like to reiterate my profound thanks for your participation and commitment.??
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One thing is clear: the international community is essential into achieving adequate, predictable, and sustained financing for peacebuilding and sustaining peace.?
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Under a Presidency of Hope, let us make this happen.?
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Not by empty words but by concrete, meaningful, collaborative action.?
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I thank you.?