Back in full force, UN General Assembly shows how the most important diplomatic work is face to face

By MICHAEL WEISSENSTEIN
Associated Press

UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The six-day United Nations General Assembly formally wrapping Tuesday shows how in-person diplomacy has fully come back. It was essential for people to be back inside the United Nations, many said. It was also essential to be on the streets around it and in the nearby hotels, they said. Side meetings on themes running from conversation to Middle East peace were taking place about causes ranging from ocean conservation to health coverage. The most productive conversations, participants said, take place in person.