- The Dean of the Diplomatic Corps,
I would like to start by expressing my sincere gratitude for the kind words and warm wishes for the year 2026 that you have extended to me and to the people of Cameroon.
As you know, on 9 September, Cameroon completed the term entrusted to it, with your invaluable support, to preside over the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
We were able to successfully complete this mission owing to the backing and support of the entire international community. Once again, I would like to thank the authorities and government bodies that you represent, for their support.
In a particularly challenging international environment, Cameroon continued during its term to work with conviction to strengthen multilateralism and international solidarity.
We can honestly give ourselves a pat on the back for the progress we achieved together in placing the international system in a better position to respond to today's global challenges.
The adoption on 22 September 2024 of the Pact for the Future, together with its annexes, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations, has been unanimously acclaimed, and rightly so.
I would also like to commend the adoption in Yaounde in July 2025, of the Declaration on a Sustainable Blue Economy at the end of the international conference held on the issue.
Our term as President of the United Nations General Assembly also enabled us to continue advocating for the reform of the United Nations Security Council. As you know, this issue is closely monitored by developing countries in general, and African countries in particular.
The progress made in this regard during Cameroon's term as President of the United Nations General Assembly is a source of satisfaction for all of us.
- Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Despite the international community’s commendable efforts, our world is still under the scourge of terrorism, multiple violations of State sovereignty and the decline of international law. The proliferation of crises and conflicts, with their attendant loss of life and manifold destructions, spares no region of the globe. This situation, as we know, has negative consequences for the development of our countries and the well-being of our people.
If we continue down this path, members of the Diplomatic Corps, there is every reason to fear that the international system, which we have spent so much time and effort building, will ultimately collapse.
Some time ago, in this very place and under similar circumstances, I made a fervent appeal for dialogue and reconciliation.
Yes, Mr Dean of the Diplomatic Corps,
I wish to reiterate this today. The path of arms and violence is, very often, a dead end. Lasting and just peace, which is the only true guarantee for the survival of humanity, requires other means, which cannot be war.
The international community, and particularly the United Nations, are responsible for achieving such peace.
I will therefore continue to advocate for strengthening the role of our common Organization. We absolutely need to provide it with the necessary resources and support to successfully carry out its missions in the service of humanity, for our common good.
- The Dean,
- Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
I would like to reiterate that my country's commitment to development, peace and harmony among peoples, and to defending the various causes that concern the survival of humanity, will never waver. Cameroon will continue to play its full role in the concert of nations.
In this light, my country will host the 14th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization this year. This will be another opportunity to extol the virtues of multilateralism, at a time when the temptation to return to unilateralism is growing ever stronger.
- Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
I would like to commend the quality of the partnership between Cameroon and your countries and the institutions you represent.
Thank you for the various actions you are taking in this regard.
I can assure you of my country's determination to continue working with you to strengthen these fruitful ties in a spirit of mutual trust and respect.
At this juncture, I wish you and your families a happy New Year 2026.
By the same token, I pray you to convey to the high authorities you represent my best wishes for good health, prosperity and happiness in the new year.
Thank you for your attention.
Yaounde, 8 January 2026
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