Guterres calls for stronger global interdependence as international divisions deepen

10:42

By: Azzat Manal

Guterres calls for stronger global interdependence as international divisions deepen

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for stronger international cooperation and deeper interdependence as geopolitical tensions, wars, climate change and rapid advances in artificial intelligence continue to deepen divisions around the world.

Speaking to world leaders during the United Nations General Assembly meetings, in what is expected to be one of his final major appearances before leaving office, Guterres warned that growing distrust and fragmentation could make it harder for countries to address challenges that increasingly cross national borders.

He argued that a more interconnected world requires stronger economic, political, social and technological ties between countries and communities. Such links, he said, can help counter trends toward isolation and declining trust between international actors.

Guterres’ remarks come as his second and final term as UN secretary-general approaches its end. His mandate is scheduled to conclude on December 31, following a decade at the helm of the United Nations. The process of selecting his successor remains underway.

This year’s General Assembly is bringing together a large number of world leaders and government representatives. Around 130 heads of state and government are expected to address the assembly, alongside dozens of ministers taking part in meetings and discussions covering a wide range of international issues.

The UN chief’s message comes as the international system faces a combination of interconnected crises. From armed conflicts and geopolitical tensions to climate-related challenges and technological change, many of the issues confronting governments cannot be addressed effectively by individual countries acting alone.

Guterres has repeatedly emphasized the importance of multilateral cooperation in tackling such challenges. His latest appeal places renewed focus on strengthening international links and rebuilding trust at a time when global divisions are increasingly shaping relations between states.