Press Release: Factsheet – The European Union at the 69th UN General Assembly (24-25 September, New York)

The commitment to effective multilateralism, with the United Nations at its core, is a central element of the EU’s external policy. This commitment is rooted in the conviction that to be able respond to global crises, challenges and threats, the international community needs an efficient multilateral system, founded on universal rules and values.

Over the years the EU has established a strong relationship with the UN. Co-operation takes place on a broad range of areas: coordinating development and humanitarian assistance, addressing climate change, promoting and protecting human rights, peace building in conflict ridden countries,fighting corruption and crime, and addressing global health concerns, labour issues and culture. During the 69th UN General Assembly, the EU, together with its member states, will particularly focus on the following issues:

+ International peace and security

+ Sustainable Development

+ Human rights, democracy and the rule of law

+ Strengthening the UN

+ International humanitarian system

• Primary Source

European Council: The President: Remarks, PRES/14/480: Remarks by the President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy at the UN Security Council Special Session on Foreign Terrorist Fighters http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/pressdata/en/ec/144924.pdf

European Council: The President: Speech, PRES/14/484: Herman Van Rompuy President of the European Council Speech to the 69th General Assembly of the United Nations http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/pressdata/en/ec/144931.pdf

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