From Ben Dunno, Warri
•King Osam I (2nd left), Jaygbes (2nd right) and Smith, at the event.
Stakeholders in government and non governmental organisations have decried high poverty level, especially in Africa and other developing nations and called for an urgent need to implement a holistic sustainable development goals to reduce its negative impacts on world populations.
They made the call during the recent Global Diplomacy Summit, with the theme, ‘Harnessing the gains of global diplomacy and peaceful coexistence: The role of international organisations’, in Ontario, Canada. It was organised by Amb. Jaygbes Napoleon Ogbole, Country Director, International Society of Diplomats (ISD) in Canada.
Participants reaffirmed belief in the workability of development goals declared by the United Nations in eradicating poverty. They raised concerns on climate change and the need to have a deliberate and intentional plan of action that must be supported by world leaders, in order to achieve a lasting solution.
In a communiqué signed by Jaygbes, Amb. Manuel Fernandez, Secretary General; and Dr. Mykel Parish, chairman, central organising committee, the summit reaffirmed commitment to multilateralism, diplomacy and international cooperation. It recognised the “interconnectedness of our world and the need for collective action to address global issues through the main theme of the summit: Harnessing the gains of global diplomacy and peaceful coexistence: The role of international organisations.”
Other resolutions included: International peace and diplomacy, investment opportunity and economic development, action plan on climate change as well as global security challenges and how to ensure that leaders embrace peaceful resolution of conflicts within their nations and neighbouring countries.
The summit received international delegates from Canada, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Gambia, Ghana, Egypt, the United Arans Emirate and United States. Nigeria’s Country Director and Head Mission, ISD, Prof Edet Ekpenyong, remarked: “The Global Diplomacy Summit, Canada 2024 was planned to serve as a platform for discussion, collaboration and exchange of ideas on pressing global issues.
“We, therefore, use this medium to appeal to world leaders to please step in and ensure that the once enjoyable peace in the Middle East is returned and maintained for the sake of the ordinary citizens of the violent conflict-affected countries.”
Fernadez, who also serves as the Country Director, Brazil, emphasised importance of diplomacy in shaping the course of human history and advancing the shared aspirations of humanity: “This summit is a testament to our collective commitment to dialogue, cooperation and diplomacy as the cornerstone of international relations.
“The need for diplomatic engagement has never been more pressing in a world marked by complex challenges and rapid changes. We navigate the complexities of this century through diplomacy, seeking common ground and solutions to the myriad issues confronting our world.”
The Nigerian delegation included Prof. John Tabotndip, Dr. Mykel Ajaere, Prof. Tunji Asaolu, Linda Agada, Mr. Aminu Musa, Dr. Gaby Ghontous, Amb. Aniekanabasi Alban, Ms. Stephanie Egba, Pastor (Mrs.) Omoyemen Gani-Yesufu, Amb. Faranpojo Omoleye, Amb. Eghomare Osaze and Amb. Idoko Ochimana.
Patron, ISD, Nigeria, Sir Anaebo Okekenta, was honoured with a Global Diplomats Award and accolade “for his outstanding contribution to the sustenance of diplomacy, tolerance and peaceful coexistence in his home country and abroad.” He received standing ovation and was presented the award by King Nana Yaw Osam I and David Smith, parliamentary assistant to the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.