Masisi laments unfulfilled quest for a just new int. economic order

Staff Writer | Tuesday January 23, 2024 09:37

Masisi expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by Uganda and congratulated President Yoweri Museveni on assuming the Chairmanship of the summit. The President’s address was delivered with a focus on the theme, “Leaving No One Behind,” aligning with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Emphasizing the importance of unity and solidarity amongst developing nations, Masisi stated, “I found it of necessity to be in attendance. As we gather here today, we do recognise that the path to sustainable development consists of its own challenges.” The Botswana leader welcomed the summit’s theme, asserting its centrality to the global pursuit of a new international economic order.

He expressed optimism about the outcomes of the summit contributing to shaping a positive future for developing countries. Acknowledging the historical role of the Group of 77 and China in harmonising views and advancing common positions on global economic issues, Masisi lamented the unfulfilled quest for a just new international economic order.

In a poignant remark, President Masisi highlighted the failure of current global governance systems to address the needs of the Global South. He urged developed economies to work constructively with developing countries, stating, “Developed economies have an obligation to work constructively with our countries in order to reduce inequality and build bridges to a sustainable future.” The President also drew attention to the challenges faced by Botswana, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he said pleas for assistance were met with indifference, vaccine hoarding, unfair trading practices, and unjustified travel bans. Masisi concluded his address by emphasizing the importance of global solidarity and trust.

He urged leaders to focus on substantive measures rather than merely acknowledging global problems. As the Global Chair of the Group of Landlocked Developing Countries, he called for special attention to countries facing unique challenges, including Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and Small Island Developing States.