Baku, October 27 (RHC)-- The 18th Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) concluded in Baku on Saturday night, with member states calling for strengthening multilateralism with the United Nations at the core.

In the final Baku Declaration, the group stressed the need to revitalize the UN General Assembly and strengthen its authority "as the most democratic, accountable, universal and representative body of the organization, including in the area of international peace and security".

The heads of state and government affirmed their commitment to make efforts to strengthen NAM's solidarity in combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations in accordance with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, international law and relevant international conventions.

The Movement also expressed concern about "the increased adverse impacts of climate change, particularly on developing countries, which are severely undermining their efforts to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development."

The two-day summit brought together dignitaries and representatives from nearly 160 countries and international organizations.  It saw Azerbaijan take over the presidency of the movement from Venezuela for a three-year term from 2019 to 2022.

The NAM Summit is held every three years.  It is a forum for 120 member states to discuss issues of importance in politics, security, development and others.