UN adopts 'Pact for the Future' aimed at addressing major challenges of the 21st century

(Patria) - The United Nations today adopted the "Pact for the Future", aimed at addressing major challenges of the 21st century - from conflicts to climate change and human rights, despite objections from a group of countries led by Russia.

The adoption of the text was briefly delayed when Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin proposed an amendment emphasizing the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of states and calling on the UN to avoid duplication of efforts.

Russia's objections were supported by Belarus, North Korea, Iran, Nicaragua, and Syria, but the amendment was rejected by a large majority, reports RFE/RL.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who organized the "Summit of the Future," called the agreement a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape human history by renewing international cooperation.

As a prelude to the annual high-level session of the UN General Assembly, which begins on Tuesday, September 24, dozens of heads of state and government gathered to sign the text, AFP reported.

In the adopted version, leaders committed to strengthening the multilateral system to "keep pace with a changing world and to protect the needs and interests of present and future generations facing ongoing crises."

"We believe there is a path to a brighter future for all of humanity," the document states.

The Pact specifies 56 actions, including a commitment to multilateralism, respect for the UN Charter, and the preservation of peace, and also calls for reforms of international financial institutions and the UN Security Council, along with renewed efforts to combat climate change, promote disarmament, and guide the development of artificial intelligence.