UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said a two-state solution was the only viable path to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, stressing that there could be no sustainable peace without the Palestinian people’s legitimate rights.
Speaking on Monday at a commemorative lecture at Cairo University marking United Nations Day, Guterres called for a full end to the war in Gaza, protection of civilians and the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid. He said the October 7 attacks could not be justified, nor could the scale of killing and destruction that followed in Gaza.
He urged the implementation of the ceasefire agreement and a comprehensive settlement endorsed by the UN Security Council, in line with international law and binding measures issued by the International Court of Justice.
Guterres praised Egypt’s role in supporting multilateral efforts, including peacekeeping, mediation and conflict resolution, describing the country as a bridge between peoples and civilisations.
He also called for an end to the war in Sudan, protection for civilians and access for humanitarian aid, while urging the international community to share responsibility for supporting Sudanese people hosted by Egypt.
On Libya, he said a settlement must be led by Libyans and enable them to restore state institutions and choose their future peacefully through elections.
Regional conflicts have consequences beyond the countries directly affected, disrupting trade and shipping and adding economic pressure on other populations, Guterres said. The region needed a new framework for shared security based on dialogue, co-operation and respect for state sovereignty, he added.
The UN chief also warned that artificial intelligence could widen gaps between countries and disrupt employment, calling for safeguards to ensure its responsible use. Universities had a key role in helping young Egyptians develop AI skills and benefit from the technology, he said.
Egyptian Higher Education Minister Abdelaziz Konsowa said universities were essential to building peace and promoting dialogue, while education, research and innovation were central to sustainable development.
Cairo University President Mohamed Sami said the university was proud to welcome Guterres and backed the UN’s efforts to promote peace, justice and respect for international law. The visit offered young people an important message about their role in building a more peaceful and sustainable world, he said.
The event was attended by government officials, diplomats, university leaders and students.
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