By ifeoma Onyekachi

A fresh push to restore confidence in global cooperation frameworks has been issued to African, Caribbean and Pacific nations, with the United Nations urging the bloc to take a leading role in reshaping multilateralism to better serve developing economies.

Speaking at the 11th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States in Equatorial Guinea, UN Secretary-General António Guterres stressed that renewed trust in multilateral systems is critical to tackling today’s global crises and unlocking sustainable progress.

Guterres described the OACPS bloc as a powerful force representing about 1.5 billion people across multiple regions, noting that its collective voice is increasingly vital amid rising global instability. He called on member states to scale up investments in sustainable development and climate resilience, while strengthening collaboration with international partners.

Highlighting mounting global challenges—including conflicts, widening inequality, rapid technological shifts, and escalating climate threats—the UN chief said developing nations continue to bear disproportionate burdens despite contributing least to many of these crises.

He urged wealthier nations and global institutions to take concrete steps to support vulnerable countries, including lowering borrowing costs, easing debt pressures, and reforming international financial systems to make them more inclusive and responsive.

According to him, existing global frameworks such as the Sevilla Commitment and the Pact for the Future provide pathways to address structural imbalances, but require stronger political will and implementation.

On climate change, Guterres was unequivocal, warning that African nations and small island states are suffering the harshest consequences of a crisis they did little to create. He called on major emitters to take the lead in cutting greenhouse gas emissions and accelerating a fair transition away from fossil fuels.

The UN chief also pressed for the fulfilment of commitments on climate adaptation, as well as funding mechanisms for loss and damage affecting frontline communities across Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific.

Despite the challenges, he commended OACPS countries for advancing innovative solutions, particularly in climate action and sustainable development, while encouraging deeper South-South cooperation and regional solidarity to drive transformation.

The summit, which began on Friday, is expected to conclude on Sunday, with discussions centred on strengthening partnerships for climate resilience, improving access to affordable financing, and accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals.