Araghchi: Unilateralism and Atrocities in Gaza Pose a Serious Threat to Global Peace and Development

According to the Government Information Center, Araghchi delivered these remarks in New York while attending the High-Level Meeting of the Global Development Initiative (GDI), titled “Renewing Commitment to Original Aspirations, Unity for a Brighter Future in Global Development.”

In his speech, Araghchi emphasized that the Islamic Republic of Iran, as a member of the Group of Friends of the GDI, regards the initiative as a valuable platform for strengthening cooperation and solidarity in the pursuit of development.

He pointed to persistent structural inequalities in the global economic, financial, and trade systems, noting that poverty eradication remains the greatest challenge for policymakers in many developing nations. Meanwhile, hunger, malnutrition, and food insecurity are on the rise, with famine risks expanding across vast regions.

Araghchi further expressed concern over widening digital divides, particularly in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, stressing the importance of inclusive, transparent, and equitable governance of digital technologies with the full and effective participation of developing countries.

Highlighting the need for long-overdue structural reforms, he called for ensuring the equal and effective involvement of developing countries in global decision-making.

He criticized developed nations for continuing unilateral coercive measures and protectionist policies instead of fulfilling their long-standing commitments, describing such practices as violations of the fundamental rights of targeted citizens and obstacles to economic growth, poverty eradication, and sustainable development.

“Challenges before us are not limited to the economic sphere,” he said. “The worsening situation in West Asia, particularly the ongoing genocide in Gaza, reveals the international community’s failure to uphold international law and prevent crimes against humanity. Foreign occupation, aggression, inequality, and injustice can reverse development gains and destabilize entire regions and the world.”

Araghchi stressed that, under such circumstances, recommitment to the principles of multilateral cooperation is more vital than ever, rejecting unilateralism as a grave threat to global peace, security, and development. He noted that the Global Development Initiative can play a pivotal role in empowering developing nations to shape the global economic order and create an enabling international environment for sustainable development.

At the same time, he underscored that the worsening situation in West Asia, especially the atrocities in Gaza, cannot be ignored, as they threaten peace and development both in the region and beyond.

Concluding his address, Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s support for the GDI: “Amid existing uncertainties and emerging divides in global political and economic systems, the Global Development Initiative has become more essential than ever, serving as a platform for strengthened solidarity, cooperation, and collective action to build a brighter future for all. We will continue to rely on this initiative and support its goals.”