Egypt’s Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has called for renewed international efforts to strengthen multilateral mechanisms, prevent conflicts and restore peace, stressing that the tools needed already exist but must be used more effectively, consistently and fairly.
Addressing a high-level breakfast meeting on peace hosted by Finnish President Alexander Stubb under the theme “Renewing the Commitment to the Promise of Peace: Harnessing Our Available Capabilities,” Madbouly said on Wednesday that escalating conflicts are seriously challenging the multilateral system and testing the United Nations’ ability to fulfill its responsibilities.
Speaking in New York while leading Egypt’s delegation to the 81st UN General Assembly on behalf of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, he thanked President Stubb for convening the discussion.
During the session, Madbouly stressed that a just and comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian cause is essential to restoring regional and international stability.
He called for an end to double standards and for an effective, equitable international response through existing multilateral mechanisms.
Regarding UN Security Council reform, he said the council must better reflect contemporary political realities.
He called for expanding permanent and non-permanent membership, particularly strengthening Africa’s representation, to address a longstanding imbalance and give the continent an appropriate voice in decisions affecting its peace, security and future.
The prime minister also stressed the importance of revitalising preventive diplomacy, noting that Global South countries often bear major economic, humanitarian and social costs from conflicts in which they are not directly involved.
Greater investment, he said, can address root causes before conflicts escalate, reducing suffering and instability.He called for renewed emphasis on diplomacy and mediation, drawing on Egypt’s longstanding efforts to resolve regional crises.
Effective mediation, he stressed, requires understanding conflicts’ root causes and adequate international support.
Madbouly also highlighted the need for sustainable UN peacekeeping funding, realistic mandates and sufficient financial and operational resources to protect personnel and fulfil missions.
He underscored peacebuilding’s role in preventing renewed conflict and supporting recovery.
He urged stronger UN co-operation with regional organisations, particularly the African Union, which should receive the capabilities and resources needed to address conflicts across Africa.
