UN General Assembly
2018

It is through that lens that I want to reflect on three issues that are critical to addressing the global problems that we face — multilateralism, international law and the rules-based international order. I believe that adherence to multilateralism, compliance with international law and shared commitment to the rules- based global order is our only hope and the only way to resolve the complex challenges that confront us. Whether it be conflict prevention or resolution, security, development, climate change, nuclear proliferation, terrorism, migration or human rights, none of these problems can be successfully addressed or resolved by one, three or five countries alone. Each and every one of those issues has transnational dimensions. Effective responses require an exercise in responsibility and respect for agreed international norms and standards, strong coalitions based on mutual trust, and progressive, inclusive and democratic vision and leadership that embrace a new understanding of national sovereignty.