ROSEAU, Dominica — President Sylvanie Burton will represent Dominica at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where she is scheduled to deliver the country’s national statement on Tuesday, September 22.

Burton will leave Dominica on Saturday, September 19, and is expected to return on September 24.

The General Debate is being held under the theme, “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.” 

The theme comes as countries face challenges including conflict, climate change, economic uncertainty, widening inequality and rapid technological change.

In her address, Burton is expected to outline Dominica’s position on the issues confronting the international community and reaffirm the country’s commitment to multilateralism, peace, sustainable development and climate action.

She is also expected to emphasise the need for international commitments to translate into meaningful results for people.

Dominica has continued to advocate for development financing that takes into account the particular vulnerabilities of small states, along with greater support for climate adaptation and resilience.

The UN General Debate begins on September 22 and forms the centrepiece of the General Assembly’s high-level week, bringing leaders and senior representatives from UN member states together in New York.

Burton’s delegation includes First Gentleman Gilbert Burton; Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade and Energy Dr Vince Henderson; Dominica’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Philbert Aaron; Deputy Permanent Representative Kelver Darroux; Sheldon Peter Anthony; and other staff of Dominica’s UN Mission.

During the President’s absence, Josette Matthew will serve as Acting President.

Burton also represented Dominica at the 80th session of the General Assembly in 2025, where she addressed issues including poverty, inequality, peace and justice, climate change and resilience.