Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said that peace is the UN’s “common cause and collective responsibility”, in his speech to the general assembly in New York this morning.

The PM appealed to the assembly’s humanity, asking for the UN to continue its efforts in promoting diplomacy and unity.

“More than ever, we must trust in each other’s humanity,” he said.

He also spoke on the importance of countries not involved in conflicts to not be bystanders and to do their part.

“If our response to conflict is that we can do nothing, we risk being trusted with nothing,” he said.

Australia’s recognition of Palestine was also mentioned by Albanese, as he appealed for further work towards a two-state solution. He called for the immediate release of all hostages, aid to “flow” and for the “terrorists of Hamas to have no role” in Gaza’s future.

He warned the assembly that if there is no action, the UN will be seen as nothing more than a “resting place for good intentions”.

Albanese also spoke of Australia’s support for Ukraine and peace on their terms, not Russia’s.