The 81st United Nations General Assembly began on September 22 in New York, with several members of the Beninese government in attendance. Led by Foreign Minister Corinne Amori Brunet, the Beninese delegation is engaged in high-level discussions. This participation occurs as Benin has been chairing the African Union's Peace and Security Council (CPS) since September 1, taking over from Algeria.
During its monthly mandate, Benin has already led several initiatives, including examining the situation in the Central African Republic on September 1 and a meeting on protecting child soldiers the following day. On September 9 and 10, Cotonou hosted a ministerial seminar on women, peace, and security. These actions are part of Benin's continued diplomatic efforts, now extended to the UN.
The 81st session of the General Assembly, opened on September 8, continues until September 28 in New York. The theme of this session is "Restoring trust, managing transformation: a UN serving all." The session is chaired by Bangladeshi Minister Khalilur Rahman. A significant issue at this session is the succession of Secretary-General António Guterres, which is expected to dominate informal exchanges between delegations.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Benin's participation aims to promote the country's priorities and contribute to collective responses on peace, security, and development issues. Several government members are participating in the scheduled events, although the full details of their bilateral agendas have not been publicly disclosed.
The UN expects 73 heads of state and 45 heads of government to attend the high-level week, along with 49 ministers, 11 vice-presidents, and one crown prince, according to spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric. Several African countries have high-level representation, including Ghana's President John Dramani Mahama and Kenya's William Ruto.
Nigeria is represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, mandated by President Bola Tinubu to lead the delegation and deliver the country's national statement. The African Union also participates with its Commission President, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and several commissioners. This African presence provides a particular context for Benin's participation, as Cotonou chairs the AU's Peace and Security Council in September.
Benin's diplomatic efforts in New York and its chairing of the AU's Peace and Security Council demonstrate the country's active engagement in international and regional affairs. The country's initiatives and participation in high-level discussions reflect its commitment to addressing global challenges and promoting peace and security.
Key points
- Benin chairs the African Union's Peace and Security Council while actively participating in the UN General Assembly.
- The 81st UN General Assembly focuses on restoring trust and managing transformation within the UN.
- High-level African representation is notable at the UN General Assembly, with several heads of state and government in attendance.
