Joly calls for unity and reclaiming freedom in UN speech

OTTAWA - Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly addressed the UN General Assembly, urging countries to combat political polarization and uphold sovereignty and human rights. She highlighted the need for cooperation to prevent crises like those in Haiti and Afghanistan. Joly emphasized that liberal democracies should reclaim the term "freedom," which she claims is misused to promote hate and justify Russia's actions in Ukraine. She also reiterated Canada's position on Middle East issues, criticizing Israel's stance on Palestinian statehood. Additionally, Joly called it "unacceptable" that the UN has never been led by a woman in its nearly 80-year history.