The larger countries of the world must take responsibility and be more proactive in dealing with global issues that impact on developing countries, particularly on issues such as climate change and refugees.
This was the message delivered by the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Peter O’Neill, when addressing the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday in New York.
“Many of the challenges that confront us today are not of our making, but we bear the consequences of actions by other larger and developed countries,” PM O’Neill said to leaders and delegates from UN Member States.
“We live in a rapidly globalising world, where many events and influences are beyond national borders.
“The challenges that we face are unlikely to be overcome by any individual country on their own.
“All nations, large or small, rich or poor, weak or strong, must strengthen our resolve and work together.”
The Prime Minister said global factors have undermined growth in developing countries, and this has to be considered by larger countries.
“One of the biggest threats to humanity comes from within our global community of nations. Climate change is real, and it is taking lives and destroying communities.
“Papua New Guinea and other Pacific Island nations remain highly vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change.
“This includes extreme tropical storms, severe droughts and seawater inundation in coastal communities.
“The chances for development in smaller countries have been harmed by the mess created by the now powerful nations.”
The PM says in PNG and around the world, our people are dying as a consequence, and living standards are being eroded and opportunity denied.
“The world needs increased action now, to make further commitments to reduce emissions and to help communities respond effectively to climate change challenges.”