Paraguayan President Santiago Peña reaffirmed on Tuesday at the 79th United Nations General Assembly Special Plenary in New York that multilateralism is the most effective path toward sustainable development, urging a shared vision of "a brighter and better future where change becomes reality."

Addressing representatives from various nations gathered at the UN, President Peña stated, "Paraguay, though geographically small, is a giant in spirit. As a nation that has witnessed the consequences of war in a world without multilateralism and built a stable democracy with consistent economic policies, we are prepared to assume our rightful central role on the international stage as a vibrant and responsible middle power." He added that Paraguay can serve as a "bridge" connecting countries at various stages of development.   

In this context, President Peña emphasized that Paraguay's commitment to this role stems from a deep conviction that multilateralism is the most effective route to sustainable development. He indirectly referenced the risks of war, arguing that only a stable, free, and fair international trade system can overcome poverty as well as "the ominous threat of armed conflict."   

Furthermore, he pointed out that while the multilateral system has the potential to address crucial aspects of humanity, such as trade, it faces challenges that must be overcome. He urged, "Let us together look toward a brighter and better future where these changes become reality."

President Peña also highlighted the importance of significant progress in agricultural reform to create less distorted markets and improve food security. He added that a fully functional and accessible dispute resolution system for all member states must be restored, and environmental measures should enhance, rather than hinder, international trade. He stated, "We must ensure justice, equity, and equality as the most fundamental principles of international trade."

President Peña concluded, "The crisis of multilateralism can only be resolved by more multilateralism. Despite the world's challenges and the possibility that they may overwhelm us, I must admit that I am an incurable optimist. I believe in multilateralism, I believe in the great achievements of the past, I believe in the current struggle for fair trade, and most importantly, I am confident that it will lead to a brighter and better future for all humanity."

Santiago Peña's emphasis on the importance of multilateralism and his pledge for Paraguay's active role on the international stage at the UN General Assembly is interpreted as a significant message highlighting the necessity of international cooperation and solidarity. Particularly, in a context of heightened geopolitical tensions and rising protectionism, his remarks are seen as raising expectations for the role of middle powers like Paraguay.   

President Peña emphasized that Paraguay, based on its experience of overcoming the pain of past wars and achieving stable democracy and economic growth, can serve as a bridge between countries at various stages of development. This is seen as demonstrating Paraguay's commitment to pursuing regional integration in South America and contributing to the balanced development of the international community.   

Additionally, he argued that a stable and fair international trade system can address the common human challenges of poverty eradication and prevention of armed conflict, mentioning the importance of agricultural reform and establishing a fair dispute resolution system. This can be seen as Paraguay's intention to contribute to international food security based on its status as an agricultural powerhouse and actively participate in establishing a predictable and fair trade order.

However, President Peña's mention of "the crisis of multilateralism" reflects the current realistic difficulties faced by the international community. The deepening competition between major powers, the weakening functions of international organizations, and the intensification of national self-interest are acting as factors that undermine the fundamental values of multilateralism and hinder international cooperation. In this situation, for middle powers like Paraguay to exert practical influence and strengthen multilateralism, concrete diplomatic strategies and active communication efforts with the international community will be necessary.

In conclusion, President Peña's UN speech is evaluated as a meaningful statement reaffirming the importance of multilateralism and emphasizing Paraguay's international role. It is necessary to pay attention to how Paraguay will demonstrate leadership in the international community and contribute to strengthening multilateralism in the future.

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