New York – President Obama delivered a speech at UNGA — the United Nations General Assembly — in New York City. The President expressed optimism at the prospects for diplomacy in solving a range of long-simmering conflicts across the globe: “For decades, the United Nations has in fact made a difference — from helping to eradicate disease, to educating children, to brokering peace,” he said. “But like every generation of leaders, we face new and profound challenges, and this body continues to be tested. The question is whether we possess the wisdom and the courage, as nation-states and members of an international community, to squarely meet those challenges; whether the United Nations can meet the tests of our time.”
Specifically, he focused his remarks on three themes — the civil war in Syria and the use of chemical weapons by the Assad regime, the potential for diplomatic engagement with Iran, and a revival of peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians.
The President also told the General Assembly that he has hopes for a diplomatic solution to Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons — despite decades of mistrust.
Finally, the President urged the entire international community to rally behind the pursuit of peace between Palestinians and Israelis.
President Goodluck Jonathan (Nigeria) with President Barack Obama (USA)
In other developments, President Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria held discussions with President Barack Obama of the United States at the Waldorf Astoria in New York ahead of the opening of the 68th session of the United Nations. President Jonathan expressed his appreciation for the support and assistance Nigeria has been receiving from the United States for its fight against domestic terrorism.
The President said that his administration also looked forward to the further strengthening of Nigeria’s relations with the United States in the areas of trade and economic development.
President Jonathan also gave assurances on his commitment to the continuous strengthening of Nigeria’s electoral processes and the country’s democratic institutions.
by Tosan Aduayi in New York – 817 622 8882
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