A variety of targets aimed at reducing poverty were established at the UN in 2000. The speaker presented a nuanced view of progress towards these goals, emphasizing the importance of aiding the most vulnerable populations. The secretary-general stressed that the Millennium Goals are still attainable, but only if assistance is provided to nations struggling to overcome poverty. Additionally, he called for the UN Human Rights Council to fulfill its role in promoting human rights globally. The secretary-general expressed strong support for multilateralism, stating that the UN is best equipped to address the challenges faced by an increasingly interconnected world. "He said that they can only be handled through the UN," he stated. It is anticipated that 193 speakers will take part in this year's general debate, with over 70 heads of State and nearly 30 heads of government participating. The debate is set to run until 3 October. The start of the assembly's general debate comes after important meetings on climate change, the Darfur conflict, Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Middle East. Ban is also set to hold one-on-one meetings with more than 100 heads of State, government officials, or ministers over the next two weeks.