The United Nations secretary-general said on Tuesday that the reconstruction of Ukraine “is a long road” that must begin now, and expressed his support for international efforts to rebuild the country after the Russian invasion.
“We are laying the foundation for the reconstruction and repair of critical infrastructure. This is a long way to go, but it must start now.”said António Guterres in a recorded video released on the last day of the conference dedicated to Ukraine, in Lugano, Switzerland.
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In doing so, the United Nations is committed to supporting the Government of Ukraine. to save lives, strengthen relief efforts, advance development plan and recovery of that country and in the protection of the achievements obtained with so much effort, guaranteeing the goals of sustainable development, he added.
Guterres warned that rebuilding the damage and devastation to homes, schools, hospitals and other critical infrastructure “will take years.”
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“Work closely with the Government of Ukraine and more than 300 local partners from civil society and international non-governmental organizations, the United Nations is reaching nearly nine million people with essential and lifesaving aid. Our goal is to reach millions more in the coming months,” said the UN Secretary-General.
Guterres recalled that 90% of Ukrainians are at risk of falling into poverty, which is why he asks the international community to support the people of Ukraine “during these dark days.”
Source: Observadora
