Nieto expressed concern that the world is reversing trends and returning to systems counter to development, such as “the calling of exclusionary nationalisms, the return to protectionist trade policies and the questioning and the erosion of multilateralism.”

“These policies promote the political exclusion of minorities, the social exclusion of vulnerable groups, the economic exclusion of the dispossessed and the cultural exclusion of those who think differently,” he lamented, reaffirming Mexico’s support of multilateralism and international cooperation as “the best way to defend sovereignty and the dignity of every State.”

Mexico’s Head of State called for the abolition of discrimination, asking to end the “political exclusion of minorities, economic exclusion of the less favored and cultural exclusion of those who think differently.”

On peace and security, he noted that after more than two decades of absence, Mexico has resumed its participation in Peacekeeping Operations in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America and the Caribbean.

Repeatedly mentioning his support for nuclear disarmament, Nieto noted that Mexico initiated, supported and, in January, ratified the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, urging all Member States to sign and ratify it “without delay.”

He flagged that weapons of mass destruction are not the only threat to society calling illicit weapons trafficking “one of the greatest challenges to internal security.”

“Trafficking in illicit weapons, because of its gravity, is a scourge which we must deal with urgently,” he said, referring to the Arms Trade Treaty as “an important step forward.”

Noting that Mexico is one of the world’s most 10 populated countries, with the 15th largest economy, he called it “globally responsible” in pursuing “development that benefits all.”

Citing coordinated institutional architecture to promote the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, he told the Assembly: “The implementation of the Paris Agreement on climate change is a priority of my country.”

Although Mexico “has acted responsibly in promoting human rights,” Nieto conceded that the country “is still facing major challenges” in this area, which is why it has implemented specific public policy and “remained opened to international scrutiny” as a means to strengthen its legal frameworks and “fully observe human rights.”

Moreover, he said that the international community must continue to promote respect for democratic principles throughout the world as part of our human rights efforts.

“The usurpation of powers, the systematic violation of political rights, the breakage of the democratic order and the humanitarian crisis taking place in some parts of the Americas is of grave concern to us,” he said, assuring the Assembly that Mexico would continue to “make its best diplomatic efforts” for democracy, peace and respect for human rights.

“Dialogue, cooperation and a rules-based system are our best options to achieve fair, shared, and lasting solutions to global challenges,” he stated.