The 79th session of the UN General Assembly opened on Tuesday afternoon in New York, with incoming President Philemon Yang outlining a vision of unity in diversity and calling for deeper international cooperation to tackle a host of global challenges, including climate change, escalating conflict, and a slowdown in sustainable development.

Mr. Yang underscored the need for equitable economic growth driven by innovation and green economies, ensuring that 'the benefits of economic development are accessible to all nations, large and small.'