UN General Assembly
2023

But strengthening connections does not just mean strengthening diplomatic ties. We have already concluded agreements with countries like Ethiopia to facilitate connectivity for businesses and people between the continents. Malta remains deeply disturbed by the dire security situation in the Sahel, including the political turmoil, irregular migration, the jihadist attacks on the civilian population and food insecurity. We are particularly concerned about the current situation in the Niger and underline the urgency of a peaceful resolution to the crisis. From Ukraine to Mali. Libya to the Niger, it can all too often seem like we are living in an era of despair. And the problems the world faces are indeed deep and profound. It would be all too easy and all too understandable to fall into despondency and to think that nothing can be done. But in the rest of my remarks. I want to show that things can be done, that we can make a difference, and that if a small nation like Malta can play its part in addressing the most urgent issues