Speaking at the UN Day parade and flag raising ceremony at the forecourt of the State House in Accra, Mr Ampratwum-Sarpong reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment towards the fulfillment of the UN Mission.
The world observes the UN Day annually on October 24, to mark the day on which the UN Charter came into force in 1945.
This year’s celebration in Ghana is on the theme: “Working together towards Peace and Sustainable Development in Ghana for present and future generations,” and it is a global celebration of the UN mission promoting peace, security and human rights development across the world.
Ampratwum-Sarpong said the Day was an opportunity for Member States to reflect on the immense work that remained in ensuring peace and sustainable development.
He said the global community was currently confronted with pressing challenges including climate change and economic disparities, which required accelerated solutions if they were to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“As we gather here today, conflicts and humanitarian crises continue to pose threats to international peace, security, and sustainable development.
“Consequently, Ghana would like to use this opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, and to urge all sides involved in conflicts to seek peaceful settlement,” he said.
He called for renewed efforts to bring warring parties to the table, with a view to achieving a just and sustainable solution to conflict.
“It is also important for countries to forge bonds of peace and cooperation through diplomacy and dialogue, because it is only by working together that we can create lasting solutions to conflicts and foster an environment where sustainable development thrives,” he added.
The Deputy Minister said under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Ghana had made significant strides in advancing the SDGs.
He said though Ghana’s achievements in areas such as poverty reduction, education, and health were commendable, there was still more work to be done, particularly in environmental sustainability.
Moreover, Ghana’s commitment to the SDGs was also evident in its collaborations with UN agencies, development partners, and other stakeholders.
Dr Wilfred Ochan, the UN Resident Coordinator Ad Interim to Ghana, said the country must continue to uphold its reputation as a beacon of peace in the sub-region.
“As we approach the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections, we must all remember that peace is the glue that binds this great nation together,” and it was therefore essential now more than ever to “reaffirm our commitments to peace and democracy”.
Madam Nana Adwoa Adomako Boamah of the Ghana United Nations Students and Youth Association (GUNSA), reiterated the need for Ghanaians to keep working together towards peace and sustainable development in the country for present and future generations.
