Prince Albert II of Monaco said the creation of the United Nations 80 years ago was a decisive turning point in international relations and gave each State an opportunity for dialogue and exchange.  “The ambition of the founders was clear and bold,” he said, as it gave all States, large and small, an equal footing in crafting collective solutions.  In this atmosphere of dialogue and respect, Monaco found its place.  The United Nations helped usher the world through the reconstruction of the Second World War and the decolonization of Africa.  “It helped shape an international order that was more peaceful,” he said.

The United Nations has also promoted the importance of robust international law and human rights.  It has played a key role in maintaining international peace and security and shaping democratic transitions.  Its tribunals have been critical to maintaining justice, he said, calling the International Court of Justice “a pillar in the peaceful resolution of disputes”.  The United Nations has also been a pioneer in “raising ecological awareness” and mobilizing action by Governments and civil society to protect the environment.  Sport is taking a more active role in the Organization’s work to promote peace and development.

Calling for “resolute collective action” to surmount today’s challenges, he stressed that “we are in a multipolar world where international realties are significant”.  Dialogue and preventive diplomacy do not always generate the anticipated results.  International security has been gravely imperilled as conflicts spread in all corners of the world.  This makes it “all the more necessary for a reaffirmation of the Organization’s core principles”, such as the sovereignty of States and peaceful resolution of disputes.  Monaco firmly condemns the war of aggression targeting Ukraine.  He said cherishes the hope that a just and lasting peace can be found.

Global security challenges are compounded by environmental challenges.  The third United Nations Ocean Conference, held in Nice, France, stressed the need for action to protect the world’s seas and oceans.  Before the conference, Monaco organized a blue economy and finance forum.  Heads of State, investors, development bankers and civil society members — about 1,800 participants from nearly 100 countries — came to answer the call for more financial resources for a generative, blue economy.  “The fight against climate change requires credible immediate financing,” he said.  The Paris Agreement provides a structure that should generate robust trust among stakeholders.