UN General Assembly adopts resolution on COVID-19

UNITED NATIONS: The UN General Assembly on Friday adopted an "omnibus" resolution to encourage international cooperation in response to Covid-19.

The resolution, which was adopted 169-2 with two abstentions, identifies international cooperation, multilateralism and solidarity as the only way for the world to effectively respond to global crises such as Covid-19, Xinhua reported.

It acknowledges the key leadership role of the World Health Organization and the fundamental role of the UN system in catalyzing and coordinating the comprehensive global response to Covid-19 and the central efforts of member states.

It supports the UN secretary-general's appeal for an immediate global cease-fire, notes with concern the impact of the pandemic on conflict-affected states and those at risk of conflict, and supports the continued work of UN peacekeeping operations.

It calls on member states and all relevant actors to promote inclusion and unity in response to Covid-19 and to prevent, speak out and take strong action against racism, xenophobia, hate speech, violence and discrimination.

It calls on states to ensure that all human rights are respected, protected and fulfilled while combating the pandemic and that their responses to the Covid-19 pandemic are in full compliance with their human rights obligations and commitments. (IANS)

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