Why the G77 is Crucial for Global Cooperation Amid Crises, Says UN Chief Guterres
UN Chief Highlights Importance of G77
During a recent address, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the critical role of the Group of 77 (G77) as a vital component of multilateralism, especially in a world grappling with numerous crises.
He remarked, "As we enter this year, we face escalating conflicts, increasing inequalities, rising debt levels, and a decline in trust among nations."
Guterres stressed the necessity for renewed collaboration in a genuinely interconnected and multipolar world, asserting that the G77 and China are essential in this context.
At the ceremony marking the annual transition of the G77 presidency, he acknowledged the group's consistent display of unity and strength.
The presidency was ceremonially transferred from Iraq’s Permanent Representative, Lukman Al-Faily, to Uruguay’s Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin.
India, a founding member of the G77 established in 1964 with 77 nations, now includes 134 member states.
The G77 has become a significant voice for the Global South, offering a unified platform for developing nations to advocate for their interests and enhance South-South cooperation.
Lubetkin noted that Uruguay assumes the presidency at a pivotal time for the UN and the international rules-based order.
He pledged to advocate for the group's interests and to bolster its influence within the UN framework.
Guterres highlighted that the increasing global challenges necessitate enhanced collective efforts to achieve shared objectives within a framework of international law that is increasingly challenged.
He called for reforms to ensure that developing nations have a more substantial role and influence in international financial institutions.
Guterres also pointed out the widening digital divide, exacerbated by advancements in artificial intelligence, stating, "We must ensure that the digital era serves as a catalyst for inclusion rather than a driver of inequality."
He urged for efforts to bridge gaps in computing capabilities, data access, research, skills, and safety standards, noting that over 80 countries currently lack the fundamental capacity to create, develop, or implement AI technologies.