Emily Thornberry MP, Labour’s Shadow Foreign Secretary, commenting on the appointment of the new United Nations Secretary General, said:

“I warmly congratulate Senhor Guterres on his appointment as the next Secretary General of the United Nations. He will bring with him a wealth of knowledge and political capability, as evidenced by his tireless work as the head of the UNHCR over the past decade.

“At a time when the international community is facing such diverse, complex and dangerous challenges, ranging from the mass movement of refugees fleeing conflict in Syria and elsewhere to the mortal threat of climate change, we need a strong United Nations more than ever, and one that will take the lead in securing peace and tackling those problems that can only be solved through collective action.

“It is to be hoped that Sr. Guterres’ extensive experience and acumen will help the UN rise to those challenges.”

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