U.N. chief suggests world leaders send videos for annual meeting

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has suggested that world leaders send video statements for the world body’s annual September meeting because it is “highly unlikely” they will be able to travel to New York during the coronavirus pandemic.

Guterres suggested a different format be considered for the 75th annual gathering “such as using pre-recorded messages provided by heads of state and government or ministers, with physical presence in the General Assembly Hall limited to one delegate per delegation based in New York.”

“It would also allow for the work of the organization to continue, albeit in a different format, and for world leaders to convey their views on important international issues, including on the international response to the pandemic, as well as to hear the views of other leaders,” Guterres wrote in a letter to the president of the 193-member U.N. General Assembly on Monday