UN Secretary General Guterres praises Baerbock's election as General Assembly president

The United Nations held a significant meeting on June 2, 2025, to mark the election of Annalena Baerbock of Germany as the president of the 80th session of the General Assembly. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres opened the meeting by congratulating Baerbock and acknowledging the leadership of the outgoing president, Philemon Yang of Cameroon.

Guterres praised Yang for his effective guidance during his term, highlighting his efforts in addressing critical global issues and advocating for Africa. He emphasized the challenges facing the multilateral system, including ongoing conflicts, climate change, poverty, and inequality. Guterres noted that the Sustainable Development Goals are currently off track, and there is a pressing need for unity and action to confront these challenges.

Baerbock's election is particularly historic as she becomes only the fifth woman to hold this position. Guterres expressed confidence in her leadership, citing her extensive experience in government and diplomacy, including her role as Germany's foreign minister. He endorsed her vision of "better together," which aims to foster collaboration and reform within the United Nations.

As the meeting concluded, Guterres called for a commitment to the values of solidarity and collaboration that have been central to the UN's mission for the past 80 years. The transition to Baerbock's presidency marks a pivotal moment for the General Assembly as it prepares to tackle pressing global issues in the coming session.