Berlin, September 21 (QNA) - Germany has urged the United Nations to step up efforts to end wars and resolve conflicts around the world.

Speaking before departing for New York to attend the UN General Assembly's general debate, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said the international community must go beyond simply taking stock of the crises, conflicts and wars facing the world.

He urged political leaders to work seriously towards solutions, saying that every step towards resolving conflicts, however small, was important.

Wadephul criticized what he described as a growing reliance on escalation instead of efforts to achieve lasting peace and peaceful coexistence, while stressing the need for concerted international efforts to promote a more peaceful approach.

He said Germany would work to bridge the communication gap between the parties to the conflicts.

He also urged Moscow to recognize that the time had come to engage in serious negotiations, warning that Russia was posing an increasingly clear threat to EU and NATO member states.

Wadephul said the UN General Assembly’s general debate provides a unique opportunity for broad international coordination on major global challenges. (QNA)