UN General Assembly
2005

The United Nations is commemorating its sixtieth anniversary this year. The world has changed profoundly since 1945. Millions of men and women have gained freedom and have emerged from underdevelopment. Technological progress has been staggering and has radically changed the life of society and relations among States. Challenges and threats have changed; they are now worldwide and jeopardize humanity itself. Yet, we must remain optimistic. It is not too late, given that we understand what is at stake and that we mobilize collectively. The United Nations is rediscovering the way charted for it by the founding fathers: helping in the peaceful settlement of disputes, building international cooperation for development and promoting human rights. We need the United Nations more than ever; it is the sole framework for universal comprehensive action which is legitimate and recognized as such by all States. Let us give it our full support. France for its part makes this commitment.