WORLD
UN Radio: New development agenda focuses on people and a healthy planet
Baku, September 2, AZERTAC
People and a healthy planet will be at the centre of global development over the next 15 years, the UN Secretary-General said on Tuesday. Ban Ki-moon was speaking during a meeting of the UN General Assembly where the 2030 Development Agenda was handed over to world leaders. Heads of State and Government are expected to endorse it at a summit later this month, according to UN Radio.
Mr Ban said Tuesday's meeting in the UN General Assembly marked the start of a new era. After three years of negotiations, all 193 countries that comprise the UN have signed off on a new agenda which sets the course for global development for the next 15 years. "Agenda 2030 aims high. It puts people at the centre of development. It aims to foster human well-being, prosperity, peace and justice on a healthy planet. It pursues respect for the human rights of all people and gender equality. It speaks to all people in all countries, and calls for action from everyone everywhere. It aims to inspire and create genuine partnerships among all countries and actors." World leaders meeting at the annual UN General Assembly later this month are expected to endorse Agenda 2030. Mr Ban expressed hope that they will also affirm "strong political commitment" to see it implemented.