UN General Assembly concludes General Debate

UNITED NATIONS -- The General Debate of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly concluded on Monday.

In his closing remarks, General Assembly President Khalilur Rahman said that 194 delegations took part in the debate, with speakers including 113 heads of state and government, one crown prince, 11 vice presidents, seven deputy prime ministers and 48 ministers.

He said the debate covered a range of issues, including peace, development, human rights, UN reform, and the selection of the next secretary-general. Artificial intelligence, which was on the margins of previous debates, moved to the center of this year's discussions.

Restoring trust, the theme of this year's debate, resonated widely in the speeches, he said.

"Let us stubbornly refuse to give up on peace. Let us resolutely commit to delivering sustainable development. Let us passionately stand behind human rights principles without selectivity. Let us govern and promote technological transformation in the service of humanity. Let us pursue reform that is meaningful, representative, and fair. And let us restore trust by rebuilding our organization that delivers for all," said Rahman.