As the 66th session of the United Nations General Assembly begins in New York this week, it also marks a new era for Fiji’s participation in the largest world body.
The 66th session opening means that Fiji begins its one year journey at the helm of the United Nations.
Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Peter Thomson was earlier elected to serve as a vice-president for the 66th session of the UN General Assembly adding to the already colorful year in Fiji’s diplomatic relations.
HE Thomson expressed deep gratitude for the confidence shown by the General Assembly in entrusting this role to Fiji at the United Nations giving every assurance that Fiji would perform the role with diligence and all due propriety.
The UN General Assembly has an elected President, supported by 21 elected vice-presidents.
The President of the 66th Session will be HE Nassir Al-Nasser of the State of Qatar.
As vice-president, Fiji’s Permanent Representative will be required from time to time to preside over deliberations of the General Assembly, when the President is not available.
In addition, vice-presidents are members of the UN’s general committee.
This committee is chaired by the President of the General Assembly and deals with procedural and organisational matters of the assembly’s session.