Oct. 24 (UPI) -- In his first United National Day address, Secretary General António Guterres asked people to overcome their differences for a more successful future.
"Our world faces many grave challenges. Widening conflicts and inequality, extreme weather and deadly intolerance, security threats - including nuclear weapons," Guterres said in a video message Tuesday.
"We have the tools and wealth to overcome these challenges. All we need is the will."
On Oct. 24, 1945, the U.N. Charter entered into force and the day has been celebrated every year since as United Nations Day.
Guterres noted that when humans rights can be achieved for all, those people will go on to build a peaceful and just world.
The White House also released a statement Tuesday saying President Donald Trump declared Oct. 24 as U.N. Day.
"We continue to believe that the United Nations can play an important role in resolving international disputes and that its success depends on a coalition of strong sovereign nations," the statement said.
"Although a great deal of work remains to be done for the United Nations to realize its full potential, we reaffirm our commitment to its goals in order to build a better tomorrow for future generations."
United Nations headquarters in New York City commemorated the day with a concert, themed "Potential in Diversity," featuring the Slovak National Folklore Ballet, Lúčnica.
U.N. offices around the world observed the occasion with different programs and events.
