Portuguese President Declares 'No Power Is Eternal' in Powerful UN General Assembly Speech

Portuguese President Addresses UN General Assembly

Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa delivered a significant speech at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, which commenced on Tuesday. In his address, he emphasized that "no power is eternal" and argued that there can be no peace "without development."

Key Points from the Speech

Marcelo participated in the high-level debate, stressing that "indifference cannot exist in world wars." He highlighted the conflict in the Middle East as an example, underscoring the importance of a ceasefire and stating that "Israelis and Palestinians should live and not die."

Regarding the war in Ukraine, the President advocated for strengthened mediation efforts to resolve the crisis.

Portugal's UN Security Council Candidacy

The President spoke in both Portuguese and English about Portugal's candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council, to be elected in 2026. This position is also contested by Germany and Austria. Marcelo expressed Portugal's readiness to take on increased responsibilities, saying, "We are available to assume added responsibilities as a global voice on the Security Council, with the experience of a service record, lessons learned in recent decades, and proximity to all states represented here, without discrimination."

He promised that if elected for the 2027-2028 term, Portugal would be "a global voice" with "no hidden agendas."

Tribute to António Guterres

During his intervention, Marcelo also addressed António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, expressing "pride in having a Portuguese as the UN's secretary-general."