Eswatini's cabinet ministers have hailed King Mswati III's speech at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. The King's address covered critical global and domestic issues, including the Ezulwini Consensus. This consensus calls for reform of the UN Security Council, which currently under-represents Africa. The King emphasized the need for a more representative and effective UN.
Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Pholile Shakantu stated that the King's speech aligned with the African Union's position on UN Security Council reform. The Ezulwini Consensus, adopted in 2005, seeks two permanent seats for African states and five non-permanent seats on an expanded council. Minister Shakantu noted that African leaders view the current Security Council structure as a historical injustice.
Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Prince Simelane praised the King's wide-ranging speech, which covered issues affecting not only Eswatini but the world. The King called for respect for small countries and for Taiwan to play a role on the global stage, including at the UN. Prince Simelane noted that the King's emphasis on upholding the rule of law and constitutionalism was significant.
Commerce, Industry and Trade Minister Manqoba Khumalo expressed his admiration for the King's balanced speech, which sought to ease tensions in war-torn areas and promote peaceful dialogue. The speech emphasized Africa's need for equal respect at the UN and access to development finance at affordable rates. Minister Khumalo also appreciated the King's advocacy for Taiwan.
The King's speech also addressed the El Niño threat and its impact on southern Africa. He urged the international community to deliver on climate finance commitments, as the region faces one of the most severe El Niño-induced droughts on record. The King emphasized that developing nations produce minimal global emissions yet shoulder the worst impacts of extreme weather events.
The King informed the Assembly of Eswatini's food security initiatives, including expanded state subsidies for subsistence farmers and increased investments in research. He also highlighted major dam construction projects to expand irrigation networks in the Lowveld region. The King's goal is to ensure that every family has access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food.
The cabinet ministers' praise for the King's speech reflects Eswatini's commitment to global cooperation and sustainable development. The King's address demonstrated his leadership on key international issues, including climate justice, food security, and UN reform. Eswatini's engagement with the international community is crucial for addressing global challenges and promoting national development.
Key points
- The King's speech at the UN General Assembly emphasized the need for climate justice and predictable funding to help vulnerable nations adapt to extreme weather events.
- Eswatini's cabinet ministers praised the King's address for its balanced approach to global issues, including promoting peaceful dialogue and advocating for Taiwan.
- The King's speech highlighted Eswatini's commitment to food security, including initiatives to support subsistence farmers and expand irrigation networks.
