Addressing a meeting of the Group of Friends of Global Governance in New York on May 28, Saeed Iravani said the world is facing a growing crisis of trust and legitimacy in the current global order, fueled by sanctions, protectionist policies, unequal participation in decision-making, and selective approaches to international law.

The Iranian ambassador also pointed to recent US-Israeli war of aggression against Iran as an example of weakening multilateralism and declining respect for diplomacy and international law.

What follows is the text of his speech:

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

Excellencies,

At the outset, my delegation wishes to thank the delegation of China for convening this timely meeting on global governance and for its continued support for multilateralism and developing countries.

Mr. Chair,

The international community today faces not only multiple global crises but also a growing crisis of trust and legitimacy in the current system of global governance.

Our world is witnessing dangerous contradictions: unilateralism instead of genuine multilateralism; confrontation instead of cooperation; sanctions, coercive measures, tariffs, and protectionist policies instead of dialogue, diplomacy, and fair trade. At the same time, financial inequality, selective approaches to international law, and unequal participation in global decision-making continue to deepen mistrust and instability.

These structural imbalances are reflected in widening inequalities, persistent poverty, debt burdens, climate change, digital divides, wars, conflicts, genocide, and wars of aggression, with particularly severe consequences for developing countries.

Distinguished Colleagues,

The recent aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran should also be viewed within this broader context of weakening multilateralism and declining respect for diplomacy and international law. At a time when Iran was actively engaged in negotiations and diplomatic engagement, it became the target of military attacks and acts of aggression.

Mr. Chair,

The challenge before us is therefore not only institutional but also political, developmental, economic, and moral. Genuine global governance must be founded upon respect for international law, sovereign equality, the peaceful settlement of disputes, and the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. It must also promote equitable participation in international economic governance, reform of the international financial architecture, fair access to finance and technology, climate justice, digital equity, and sustainable development for all.

Global governance must become more representative, inclusive, and respectful of the sovereignty and development priorities of all countries, particularly developing countries. Only through justice, solidarity, adherence to international law, and the rejection of unilateral coercive measures can we achieve sustainable development, peace, and shared prosperity for present and future generations.

I thank you.