The UN set a series of anti-poverty goals in 2000, and the secretary-general stated that while progress has been mixed, the Millennium Goals are still achievable with efforts to help the most vulnerable nations. He emphasized the importance of the UN Human Rights Council fulfilling its role in promoting human rights globally. Ban also expressed strong support for multilateralism in addressing global challenges. He stated that they can only be addressed through the UN. This year's general debate is anticipated to have participation from 193 speakers, with over 70 heads of State and nearly 30 heads of government. The debate will run until October 3rd. The start of the general debate follows discussions on climate change, the Darfur conflict, Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Middle East. Ban is set to have one-on-one meetings with more than 100 heads of State or government or ministers in the coming two weeks.