Seventy-nine years ago, the international community pledged to maintain international peace and security, foster friendly relations and solidarity among nations, and promote respect for human rights. Today, these commitments remain more relevant than ever.

This year, Colombia makes a unique contribution to this effort: as host of COP 16, it calls for the promotion of peace with nature, recognising that peace-building requires the re-establishment of a new relationship with nature based on the protection of biodiversity, equitable access to and use of land, and democratic participation in the management of natural resources.

Colombia thus remains a beacon for the world in peace-building efforts.

On United Nations Day, I would like to reiterate and acknowledge that all UN staff in Colombia remain committed to accompanying Colombians in their quest for peace, respect for human rights and protection of the environment.

Together, we will make progress towards the goals of the United Nations Charter.

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