In his speech on UN General Assembly, President Mokgweetsi E.K. Masisi of Botswana addressed several global challenges.
He condemned attacks on innocent civilians, particularly in Gaza, and expressed concern over the deaths of UNRWA workers, emphasizing the need to protect them and condemning misinformation against the agency.
He reiterated Botswana’s support for the two-state solution based on 1967 borders for peace between Israel and Palestine.
Masisi also called for diplomacy to resolve the Ukraine conflict and highlighted Africa’s ongoing struggles with armed conflict and terrorism. He praised efforts by the African Union and the UN to address these issues and stressed the importance of respecting international law, particularly the responsibility to protect.
He urged governments to promote peace internally through good governance, human rights, and strong institutions.
On development, Masisi warned that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are under threat, with only 17% on track. However, he pointed out successes like reduced child mortality and better education access.
He called for comprehensive social protection policies and sustainable development financing to help developing nations.