Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi called for debt relief for the developing countries, especially the African and middle-income ones, in light of the economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, in a recorded speech to the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Tuesday. "The African continent has become the most affected by the coronavirus at a time when its peoples are facing other challenges," El-Sisi said. The 76th general debate of the UNGA -- in which world leaders discuss global issues -- is held from 21 to 25 September, and on 27 September 2021, pursuant to resolution 57/301. The UNGA's 76th general debate session comes under the theme "Building resilience through hope – to recover from COVID-19, rebuild sustainably, respond to the needs of the planet, respect the rights of people, and revitalise the United Nations." This year, the debate will be conducted in a hybrid fashion, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Heads of state or government may elect to either deliver their statement live from the podium in the General Assembly Hall, or have a delegate introduce their pre-recorded statement. A number of world leaders have already delivered speeches including US President Joe Biden, while others like President of People's Republic of China Xi Jinping had a pre-recorded speech. More to follow..
