Without the UN, no country can feel secure: Prabowo

New York City (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto reiterated Indonesia's support for the United Nations (UN), saying that without it, the world would be unsafe and no country could feel secure.

"Without the United Nations, we cannot be safe. No country can feel secure. We need the United Nations, and Indonesia will continue to support the United Nations," Prabowo stated in his speech at the UN General Assembly Hall in New York on Tuesday local time.

"Even though we still struggle, but, we know the world needs a strong United Nations," he added.

He expressed his agreement with the remarks of UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock on the global importance of the UN and its agencies, including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which regulates air transport.

"It is true what she said. Without the International Civil Aviation Organization, will we be here today? Will we sit in this great hall?" Prabowo remarked.

Prabowo went on to highlight the UN's crucial role in supporting Indonesia’s struggle for independence after World War II.

"The United Nations stood with Indonesia and gave us vital assistance," he emphasized.

Through decisions rooted in human solidarity, he said, the Security Council and the General Assembly granted Indonesia international legitimacy, opened doors, and supported the nation's early development.

UN agencies such as the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Health Organization (WHO) have also assisted Indonesia since its early years of independence, he noted.

"And because of that, Indonesia today stands on the cusp of shared prosperity and greater equality and dignity," Prabowo remarked.

"With a strong United Nations, we can build a world where the weak do not suffer what they must, but live the justice they deserve," he added.

Prabowo Subianto became the first Indonesian leader to address the UN General Assembly in 10 years. His predecessor, Joko Widodo, chose not to attend the annual forum during his two terms in office.

He was the third to deliver a speech at the General Assembly, after the leaders of Brazil and the United States, who traditionally speak first and second.