The general debate of the 74th session of the General Assembly was held from 24 – 30 September 2019.  This is the annual debate for world leaders to gather at UN Headquarters to discuss global issues. The theme for this year is “Galvanizing multilateral efforts for poverty eradication, quality education, climate action and inclusion.”

On Friday 27th September 2019, the Honorable Prime Minister Tuila’epa Sailele Malielegaoi addressed the United Nations General Assembly where his main message was on the urgent need for action to address climate change which remains a priority policy concern for Samoa and the Pacific.   He also highlighted the importance of Samoa’s relations with the United Nations and stressed that development, security and human rights are mutually reinforcing pillars of the United Nations.  This was an important opportunity for the Prime Minister to showcase some of Samoa’s contributions to the international agenda and global efforts on the three pillars of the UN.

“We continue to look to the United Nations to bring member states together to be part of the solution to make it an agent of change; and assurance of hope during these challenging times.  All contributions matter and are important” said the Prime Minister of Samoa as he informed the General Assembly of Samoa’s contribution to UN Peacekeeping, disarmament agenda, Women Peace and Security agenda and Samoa’s continuous advocacy for respect of the rule of law and upholding human rights. He also raised Samoa’s efforts in implementing the Sustainable Development Agenda particularly the implementation of the SAMOA Pathway which had its Mid Term review on the same day.