site.btaIn New York, President Radev Calls on International Community to Address Root Causes of Conflicts and Migration

New York, September 21 (BTA) - Addressing the root causes of protracted conflicts requires a holistic UN response encompassing preventive diplomacy, mediation and peace-building, Bulgarian President Rumen Radev said in his first address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 20. Radev is leading the Bulgarian delegation to the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly, whose main theme is "Focusing on People - Striving for Peace and a Decent Life for All on a Sustainable Planet," the President's press secretariat reported.

In his statement during the general debate of the forum, Radev said: "Conflicts in many parts of the world continue to undermine international peace and security and the fundamental values of humanity. Outbreaks of violence devastate local economies, trigger large movements of refugees and migrants, cause massive spread of diseases, famine and immense human suffering."

He went on to note: "International migration is a global phenomenon and only through joint efforts, such as the Global Compact on Migration, we can ensure a balanced approach which includes respect for international humanitarian and human rights law, as well as effective border management and readmission. States have rights and responsibilities to manage and control their borders as a central element of their national security. Strict border control is of utmost importance, in particular in the context of preventing irregular migration and eradicating human trafficking."

The Bulgarian President singled out the conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, North Africa and Afghanistan as major threats to international peace and security. "Disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control are among the main pillars of international security," he stated. "The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action on Iran's nuclear programme concluded in July 2015 remains of historic significance. Its full implementation is of great importance for regional and global stability. My country reiterates its full support for the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action."

"Bulgaria categorically condemns the repeated nuclear tests and missile launches by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, which lead to further escalation of the tensions in the region and undermine world peace and security. [...] We reiterate our commitment to a peaceful, diplomatic and political solution to the situation," Radev said.

"Promoting equality, countering discrimination and ensuring respect for human rights are key to achieving lasting peace and sustainable development and we believe that the protection of human rights should be placed at the centre of all action undertaken by the UN," he added.

Radev also stated: "'Leaving no one behind' and 'reaching the farthest behind first' are not simply political declarations meant to invigorate Agenda 2030. If we are to transform our world by lifting it out of poverty, we need to implement fully the Sustainable Development Goals by promoting equality, inclusion and participation."