UN Chief Warns Multilateralism Faces Serious Challenges

Jeju, South Korea (ANTARA) - United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned on Thursday (25/6) that multilateralism is facing various serious challenges.

He called for the strengthening of cooperation and the restoration of trust to overcome various global challenges, including conflict, poverty, and climate change.

In a video message delivered at the 21st Jeju Forum for Peace and Prosperity, he urged nations to reaffirm their commitment to the UN Charter and shared values.

In his speech at the forum, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed concern over the weakening influence of the UN and various other international institutions.

“What makes me very angry is the decision by US President Donald Trump to withdraw the US from a large number of international organisations and institutions associated with the UN,” said Ban.

Ban emphasised that no country can prosper in isolation, regardless of their power and resources.

At the same event, former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama criticised recent military actions taken by the US and Israel against Iran. According to him, these actions “clearly violate international law.”

The Jeju Forum was launched in 2001 under the theme of peace and prosperity.