The 81st United Nations General Assembly has opened in New York, bringing together world leaders for a week of high-level diplomatic discussions focused on major international conflicts, security, economic pressures and emerging technologies.

US President Donald Trump is among the first major national leaders scheduled to address the General Debate on Tuesday, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is traditionally the first member-state speaker, followed by the United States as the host country.

Major global issues on the agenda

The General Debate, running from September 22 to 28, is expected to focus heavily on the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as international security, economic challenges and artificial intelligence.

Trump’s appearance comes amid heightened tensions involving the United States and Iran, including the conflict’s impact on energy markets and shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. His address on Tuesday has placed US foreign policy at the centre of the opening day’s discussions.

Erdoğan and Macron bring European and regional concerns

Erdoğan is also addressing the Assembly as Turkey continues to position itself diplomatically on the Russia-Ukraine war and wider regional security issues. During his address, Erdoğan called for an end to the war while emphasizing Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Macron’s participation comes as France engages in diplomatic efforts surrounding the Middle East crisis and other international security issues. The French president is among several European and Middle Eastern leaders using the UN platform to present their governments’ positions on global challenges.

A critical week for global diplomacy

The 81st General Assembly is taking place against a backdrop of multiple conflicts and growing debates over the future of the international system. UN Secretary-General António Guterres opened the proceedings before member-state leaders began their addresses.

With nearly 130 heads of state and government expected to participate, the week provides an important forum for countries to present their positions and conduct bilateral diplomacy on issues that extend beyond the General Assembly chamber.

The UN General Debate will continue through September 26, before resuming on September 28.

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