The President of the Economic Community of West African States Commission, Omar Touray, emphasized the need for tangible action on global peace and development commitments at the Summit of the Future during the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
He commended UN Secretary-General António Guterres for convening the summit, noting its significance amidst pivotal global choices.
“The timing of the summit is particularly significant coming, as it does, at a time when our world stands at a crossroads,” Touray stated, highlighting the need to choose between a chaotic past and a more just, collaborative future.
He questioned the novelty of the Pact for the Future, pointing out that many commitments have been previously articulated under various UN frameworks.
“The fact that we have come back to the same old commitments suggests that we still need greater political will to deliver on the good promises,” he remarked.
For ECOWAS, Touray stressed that actual implementation is key to making the Pact meaningful. He called for decisive action on:
– Peace and Security: addressing regional conflicts and instability
– Sustainable Development: promoting economic growth and social progress
– Climate Justice: addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable practices
– Youth Empowerment: supporting the development and participation of young people in regional affairs
Touray urged leaders to prioritize regional unity and integration, warning against the dangers of disunity and conflict, particularly in West Africa.
“If we fail to deliver once again, history will look back to this summit not as the summit of the future but a Summit of the Past. This is the choice before us,” he added.
As the President of ECOWAS Commission, Touray’s sentiments carry significant weight, especially considering his experience as a Gambian diplomat and development professional.
