Category: Language

As the Persian Gulf crisis continues, the clock is ticking for farmers who rely on fertilizer shipped via the Strait of Hormuz – and millions worldwide who depend on their crops, particularly in vulnerable countries such as war-torn Sudan.

In normal times, one third of global fertilizer trade passes through the maritime corridor located south of Iran, but tanker traffic has essentially come to a standstill.

In response, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres established a task force to facilitate the safe passage of fertilizers and related raw materials for humanitarian purposes.

Jenča told the Security Council that with the presidential campaign now in full swing ahead of elections on 31 May, the Mission is adding its voice to the call for authorities and all concerned “to ensure a safe and peaceful environment, free of violence and free of stigmatization.”

Jenča noted that a number of rural areas are still strongly impacted by the presence of illegal armed groups, and their ongoing clashes over territorial control and illicit economies are bringing violence and hardship to entire communities.

On the recent legislative elections, held in March, he said, “despite concerns during the campaign period over incidents of violence and the presence of illegal armed groups in conflict affected regions, adequate measures were taken and Election Day was not adversely affected by security incidents, a demonstration of Colombia’s strong institutions.”

He reiterated his condemnation of reported threats against presidential candidates and called for state authorities “to guarantee the safety of all participants in the electoral process.”

Jenča said the latest report of the Secretary General on Colombia, which he was presenting, “traces implementation across the three pillars of the mandate, as established by the Security Council in Resolution 2798 of last October. Reintegration of former combatants, security guarantees, and comprehensive rural reform.”

He said these were “three elements at the core of the final peace agreement, whose implementation contributes to peace and security in the country.”

On rural reform, the UNVIC official said, it was “fundamental for consolidating lasting peace and security in Colombia” as it “aims to extend state presence and address inequalities that have fuel conflict in the country for decades.”

The process for the selection and appointment of the next Secretary-General has been formally initiated by the President of the General Assembly and the President of the Security Council through a joint letter dated 25 November 2025. The President of the General Assembly, H.E. Ms. Annalena Baerbock, has committed to guiding this process in a transparent and inclusive manner.

General Assembly resolution 79/327 on the Revitalization of the work of the General Assembly sets out the process for the selection and appointment in line with Article 97 of the Charter of the United Nations.