International law, mediation and mapping: Togo’s three-part message at the UN
Togo used its address to the United Nations General Assembly on Friday to highlight three priorities: international law, mediation and fairer world maps.
First, Foreign Minister Robert Dussey, speaking on behalf of President Faure Gnassingbé, called for stronger respect for international law. He also urged countries to rebuild trust in multilateral cooperation.
Moreover, Dussey argued that international law should not be viewed as a limit on national power. Instead, he said it provides legitimacy, stability and predictability in international relations.
Meanwhile, the minister highlighted Togo’s recent diplomatic initiative on global mapping. On September 4, the UN General Assembly adopted the “Correct the Map” resolution, supported by 164 member states.
According to Togo, correcting historical distortions on maps can also help address the perceptions they create. The country now wants to move from the adoption of the resolution to concrete action.
Therefore, Togo is calling for broader cooperation involving UN member states, UNESCO, cartographers, historians, educators, young people and artificial intelligence experts. The aim is to make maps stronger tools for education, inclusion and understanding between peoples.
In addition, Togo reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue and mediation. It highlighted its efforts in West Africa, the Sahel and the Great Lakes region as part of its broader diplomatic approach.
Finally, Dussey stressed that African countries should be supported in resolving their own conflicts. Togo’s message was that mediation is a form of responsibility, while African-led initiatives should receive greater international recognition and support.
