Noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General.
Highlights:
- Secretary-General
- Afghanistan
- Senior Personnel Announcements,
- Syria
- Ukraine
Secretary-General
This morning, the Secretary-General spoke at the annual international prayer breakfast before the start of the General Assembly, and at a wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate the 58th anniversary of the death of former Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld.
The current Secretary-General said that Mr. Hammarskjöld shaped the United Nations into an active force in making and keeping peace.
Antonio Guterres said that one of Dag Hammarskjöld’s most important qualities was his ability to take a step back – and to project his vision into the future.
Mr. Guterres will also speak this afternoon at 3:00 p.m. at the opening of the 74th session of the General Assembly. He is expected to once again congratulate Professor Muhammad-Bande on his election as General Assembly President.
The Secretary-General will also spotlight the crucial role of the General Assembly as a unique and indispensable forum where the world can come together to advance on sensitive and important issues.
Afghanistan
The Secretary-General strongly condemned the suicide attacks today at an election campaign rally in Parwan Province and a public square in Kabul, Afghanistan, which caused numerous civilian casualties.
He expressed his deep sympathies to the families of the victims and to the Government and people of Afghanistan.
The Secretary-General underscored that all Afghan citizens – whether voters, candidates or election-related staff – have the right to be free from fear, intimidation and violence. Attacks against civilians are unacceptable and those who carry out such crimes must be held accountable.
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan also condemned today’s Taliban attack on an election rally at Parwan.
This attack showed despicable disregard for civilian life and fundamental right to participate in democratic processes. This was from the Mission, in a tweet.
The Mission also stressed that such attacks, with scores of civilian casualties, are a violation of international law.
Also, this morning, the council adopted a resolution extending UNAMA’s mandate, decided to extend UNAMA’s mandate until 17 September 2020.
Full Highlights: [ Ссылка ]
