The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, delivered a speech in the European Parliament this Thursday, in which he focused on three essential topics namely the Covid-19 pandemic, climate and the partnership of the United Nations/EU.

“We live in a time when the strategic partnership between the EU and the United Nations is more essential than ever,” said Antonio Guterres, adding that contributing to more effective global cooperation will be a priority for his second term.

Before MEPs, Guterres called for a global vaccination plan, urging the EU to use its influence as a global actor to ensure fair and equitable access to vaccines for all.

“Vaccine equity is not the greatest ethical test of our time. It is also a question of effectiveness”, said the UNO boss, adding that “we must accelerate the global effort to vaccinate”.

With regard to climate commitments, the head of the United Nations, who has just been reappointed for a second term, suggested that the EU “shows the way”, particularly through its “Green Deal”, zero net Commitment to reach emissions by 2050.

“This campaign to achieve net zero emissions should become the new benchmark for all, everywhere, all countries, all companies, all cities and all financial institutions,” he stressed, adding that these commitments should be followed by the end of subsidies. Backed by specific dates. and fossil fuel financing. Meanwhile, Guterres urged the EU to help stand up and lead for universal values ​​and fundamental rights.