President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on all concerned parties to reaffirm their commitment to universal multilateralism.
Multilateralism refers to an alliance of multiple countries pursuing a common goal based on the principles of inclusivity, equality, and cooperation. It aims to foster a more peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world, the President explained.
Multilateral institutions, President Marcos pointed out in his intervention at the 14th ASEAN-United Nations Summit in Laos, provide global stability amid many unseen threats. He noted
institutions are borne of the lessons of history and the continuing hope that humanity will prevail against emerging challenges and future shocks.
“However, our rules-based international order, established to avoid the conflicts in the past – conflicts which set humanity back several decades, is now under attack. Across the globe, states have acted against the principles of international law and, at times, against plain human decency,” President Marcos said.
“It is thus timely that we all meet today to reaffirm our commitment to universal multilateralism. The commitment and success of every collective endeavor renew the central role of our institutions and strengthen the international order that we have long established and try to live by.”
And for universal multilateralism to succeed, President Marcos said a multilateral organization should not merely exist; it should proactively uphold and protect the international rule of law against contemporary challenges.
The relevance of the United Nations depends on the effectiveness of the parties concerned in addressing challenges, the President said in highlighting the importance of regional and international organizations and institutions in managing those stumbling blocks. | PND