Addressing leaders at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Antonio Guterres called for urgent action to stabilise conflict-affected regions and strengthen multilateral cooperation across the continent.
He stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire and respect for territorial integrity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, consolidation of political gains in the Central African Republic, and renewed commitment to a UN-backed political process in Libya. Across West Africa and the Sahel, he urged coordinated strategies to curb terrorism and displacement, while highlighting the necessity of predictable funding for the AU mission in Somalia.
Guterres expressed disappointment over the UN Security Council’s failure to reach consensus on assessed contributions for Somalia’s peace operation, questioning the lack of global backing. He noted that UN peace operations are under review to ensure clearer mandates and transition plans.
The Secretary-General praised the African Union as a pillar of multilateralism and reiterated support for reforming global governance, including permanent African representation on the Security Council. He also called for restructuring the international financial system to ease Africa’s debt burden and expand development financing.
He concluded by reaffirming that Africa remains the UN’s top priority for the remainder of his mandate.
