As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the signing of the Charter of the United Nations, we recall the enduring relevance of this historic document. The Charter was conceived during the cataclysm of war. Its signing on 26 June 1945 at the San Francisco Conference heralded a new era of global cooperation.

For delegates present, it marked a decisive turn towards peace following the horrors of the Great Depression, the Holocaust and two World Wars that had left an indelible mark on the conscience of humanity.

With the signig of the Charter, states vowed to never again inflict such suffering and devastation upon humanity. They envisioned a world rooted in respect for human rights, promotion of peace and security, and support for sustainable development. They set out the rights and obligations required for upholding this shared vision. And they pledged to work collectively, as nations united, to achieve its aims.

This is our moment to revive the spirit of San Francisco and again embrace the ideals that united humanity during its darkest hour. Together, let us light a brighter path towards a more stable, equitable future – one in which tomorrow’s generations are not only spared the scourge of war but thrive in a world solidly built on peace, justice and human dignity.