Annual debate of UN general assembly concluded

World leaders on Tuesday concluded here an annual debate of the 66th session of the UN General Assembly with a call for turning commitments made by the member states into to real practice. Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser, president of the 66th UN General Assembly, said in his closing remarks that the member states now should turn attention to implementation of their commitments. "In fulfilling our joint responsibilities, we must build consensus and sustainable solutions to global challenges," he said. "I will be steadfast in my commitment to work in close cooperation with each of you, so we may strengthen out efforts through a united global partnership." Al-Nasser stressed that the role of mediation is clearly more relevant than ever before and he was pleased that many delegations welcomed and reflected on the increasing role of mediation and prevention, which will be a high priority of his work in the upcoming year. The general debate of the 66th session of the General Assembly kicked off here last Wednesday with the theme of "The role of mediation in the settlement of disputes by peaceful means." During the week-long debate, representatives from 193 member states of the UN including more than 120 heads of state or government delivered speeches focused on achieving the Millenium Development Goals by 2015, dealing with climate change and sustainable development.