The Philippine government, represented by Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, advocated for multilateralism during the UN General Assembly, emphasizing the need to reform international cooperation in light of ongoing global crises, including the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza and climate change issues. Manalo rejected narratives framing the South China Sea as a site of rivalry and reinforced the Philippines’ commitment to a rules-based order while calling on developed nations to fulfill their climate commitments.
During the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, the Philippine government emphasized the importance of multilateralism in resolving international disputes. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, representing the Philippines, articulated the need for the United Nations to reinvigorate its agenda, particularly in light of current global challenges such as the conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan, alongside issues like climate change and poverty. He highlighted the necessity for reforming multilateralism to effectively tackle these international crises and achieve global developmental objectives. Manalo reiterated the Philippines’ strong commitment to the international rules-based order, a dedication echoed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. He pointed out that the narrative portraying the South China Sea as a zone of major power rivalry must be dismissed in favor of peaceful resolutions. The Philippines affirms adherence to the UN Charter and the Manila Declaration on the Peaceful Resolution of Disputes in asserting its sovereignty in the South China Sea. The Philippine delegation, led by Secretary Manalo, participated in several high-level meetings during this week-long event, including a summit that produced a consensus document titled the “Pact for the Future,” emphasizing collaborative global solutions to pressing issues. In his address, Manalo noted, “The Pact for the Future is a testament that global problems require global solutions and that a better world is possible when States commit to working together towards a common vision.” Furthermore, the Secretary called on developed nations to uphold their commitments under international climate agreements, underscoring the Philippines’ vulnerability to climate impacts. Manalo’s engagements included discussions with foreign ministers from various nations, reinforcing the Philippines’ position on multilateral cooperation and peace initiatives in the Asia-Pacific region.
The significance of multilateralism in addressing global issues has gained increasing recognition as nations confront complex challenges that transcend borders. The United Nations serves as a principal platform for international collaboration, and the Philippine government has consistently advocated for a strengthened UN agenda to foster peace and development. The recent conflicts and humanitarian crises in various regions have underscored the urgency for collective action. The Philippines, as a founding member of the UN, seeks to align its foreign policy with a commitment to international law and sustainable solutions that resonate with the broader objectives of global governance.
In conclusion, the Philippines firmly stands by its commitment to multilateralism and the international rules-based order as it addresses contemporary challenges. Through constructive engagement with global partners, the country aims to facilitate dialogue and cooperation to achieve lasting peace and sustainable development within the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. By advocating for collective responses to pressing issues and emphasizing legal adherence, the Philippines reinforces its role in the global community as a proponent of unity and peace.
Original Source: www.manilatimes.net
