The high-level week begins on Monday, Sept. 21, bringing together leaders and senior officials to discuss conflicts and security, climate change, artificial intelligence, health, education and sustainable development.

This year’s General Assembly is taking place against the backdrop of continuing conflicts, including the war in Ukraine and tensions and fighting in the Middle East, as countries also grapple with climate-related disasters, humanitarian crises and rapid advances in artificial intelligence.

The session is being held under the theme “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All,” reflecting calls for greater international cooperation at a time when governments face increasingly complex global challenges.

On Monday, Canada, Kenya and the European Union will host the Partners for Multilateralism, International Law, Peace and Prosperity Summit, bringing together leaders to discuss ways of strengthening international cooperation, respect for international law and efforts to promote peace and inclusive development.

Climate change will also feature prominently during the week. A high-level meeting on Wednesday will focus on climate action and the transition to cleaner energy, while another meeting on Thursday will examine the effects of rising sea levels.

Health will take centre stage on Friday, when leaders are expected to discuss how countries can better prevent, prepare for and respond to future disease outbreaks and pandemics.

For African leaders, the discussions are also expected to focus on challenges closer to home, including insecurity, humanitarian crises and the effects of climate change.

The conflict in Sudan, preparations for climate shocks such as El Niño and stronger regional cooperation are among the issues expected to feature in discussions involving African countries.

The General Assembly brings together all 193 UN member states and provides a forum where governments debate global challenges and seek common responses.

For Rwanda, the gathering provides an opportunity to take part in those discussions while engaging with governments and international partners on issues affecting the country, the region and the wider world.