The representative of Malawi, said her country is committed to preventive diplomacy that promotes conflict resolution as an essential strategy for fostering stability. This commitment is seen in its engagement and unwavering support for peace initiatives led by the United Nations, African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). “We believe that collaborative efforts are essential in addressing multifaceted challenges that threaten global peace and the rules-based order,” she stressed.  Women’s participation in peacekeeping operations is a priority, she said, recognizing women’s unique ability to meet the needs and experiences of women in conflict zones.  “I am proud to say that Malawi stands among nations that have registered significant strides towards gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls,” she added.

Turning to climate change, she said erratic weather patterns threaten the country’s agricultural backbone, pushing vulnerable communities into food insecurity and economic despair - conditions ripe for discord.  “It is therefore important that our discussion on peace must be intrinsically linked to climate resilience, sustainable agriculture and food sovereignty,” she said.  “Sovereignty, just like peace, is threatened by food insecurity.”  She called for greater investments in early warning systems, climate-smart agriculture and social safety nets.  “A world that is food-secure is a world [that is] more peaceful,” she added.  Malawi reaffirms its unwavering commitment to multilateralism and the Organization’s central role in addressing contemporary challenges.  “Let us match our ambition with the resources required to deliver,” she said.