This is an index of all references made to issues of disarmament, peace, and security, made in the 59th General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly from 21 September–1 October 2004. Included in this index are all references made to arms control, disarmament, multilateralism, nuclear energy, security, proliferation, the arms trade, and nuclear and conventional weapons.

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>Afghanistan
H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of
September 21, 2004

Disarmament (conventional weapons): "We have also taken steps toward disarming, demobilizing and reintegrating private militias. Nearly all of the heavy weapons have been collected from the city of Kabul, and thousands of former combatants have been disarmed in various parts of the country."

Terrorism: "The remnants of terrorism continue to attack our citizens and threaten our security. As long as terrorism continues to exist in our region, neither Afghanistan, nor our neighbors, nor indeed the rest of the world can be safe. Eliminating the remnants of terrorism in Afghanistan and in the region requires not only continued support from the international community, but also strong and sincere commitment from other countries. To stop the movement of terrorists across borders, the countries in the region must cooperate closely."

Albania
H.E. Mr. Fatos Nano, Prime Minister of
September 21, 2004

Multilateralism and Terrorism: "...no country can be successful alone in the fight against terrorism. In this context, it is very important to strengthen the international cooperation both among states and between the latter and global or regional international organizations, among which United Nations plays an irreplaceable role."

Proliferation: "This year Albania also joined the Proliferation Security Initiative whose aim is to identify, through a set of principles, concrete steps to prevent trafficking of WMD, their launching systems and materials used to produce them."

Radiological materials: "Albania has ...taken all measures for the implementation of the Code of Conduct on Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources of the IAEA, convinced that this international instrument is extremely important to prevent threats stemming from misuse of radioactive materials. Albania has already taken the decision and in the coming weeks will sign the Additional Protocol to the Safeguards Agreement of the IAEA."

WMD and Terrorism: "The Albanian Government salutes the decision of the Security Council to play an active role in the fight against threats coming from possession and trafficking of weapons of mass destruction. It supports the UN Security Council resolution 1540 of 2004."

Andorra
H.E. Mr. Marc Forné Molné, President of
September 23, 2004

Terrorism: "...we are living with considerable concern in a world which is becoming more and more violent, where terrorist attacks are met by a military response and these military responses seem to generate new terrorist attacks. It would seem that we are caught up in a terrible settling of scores, in a spiral of hate, fanaticism and senseless bloodshed."

"...it is a source of consternation to note that the doctrine of preemptive attack has generated a level of distrust among governments and peoples."

"We need to address the causes of terrorism, to comprehend the forces that give it power, in order to respond, together, within the rule of law. Tomorrow, my country will deposit the instruments of ratification of four conventions against terrorism and the rest are scheduled to be ratified in the coming year."

"We cannot allow terrorism to unbind the rule of law, since this would mean undoing the tissue of civilized behavior that serves as a safety net within modern culture. Instead of isolating one nation from another, instead of signifying moralizing and self-serving political posturing, instead of giving in to fear, we must recognize that our common vulnerability goes hand in hand with a humanity which we also share."

Angola
H.E. Dr. João Bernardo de Miranda, Minister for External Relations
September 24, 2004

DDR: “Effectively, the rehabilitation of social and productive infrastructures destroyed almost in their totality by the armed conflict; the social reintegration of nearly 100 thousand former combatants and their respective families; the resettlement of more than four million internally displaced persons, and of more than 400 thousand refugees, together with an incommensurable effort for the reduction of poverty affecting most of the population. This is a very difficult task which can only be successful with the full participation of the international community.”

Terrorism: “…we do not deem it improper or inconvenient to reflect a little further on the forms of prevention and combat to terrorism. Are the methods utilized hitherto effective per se to eradicate terrorism? Is the current collective security system capable of facing the terrorists’ aggressiveness? To what extent will answers to terrorism based on the United Nations’ multilateral efforts to be less incisive?”

Antigua and Barbuda
H.E. Hon. Baldwin Spencer
September 24, 2004

Security: “The international security measures mandated by America’s post 9/11 PATRIOT Act have inflicted an inordinate financial burden on the small economies of CARICOM member states…

“With intensified security concerns in the United States, Caribbean countries are confronted with increasing waves of deported felons from the United States.”

Armenia
H.E. Mr. Vartan Oskanian, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of
September 29, 2004

Terrorism: “Terrorism, in all its manifestations, affects security, political and economic stability in our neighborhoods and on our planet…

“Cognizant that the success of the counter terrorism efforts is conditional on collective measures, Armenia has readily joined the global fight against international terrorism. This fight must go beyond effective regional and international cooperation. It must include the very goals of the Millennium Declaration- replacing deprivation, poverty and injustice by a universal respect for human rights and democracy, economic development, equality and social justice.”

Australia
H.E. Mr. John Dauth, LVO, Permanent Representative
September 30, 2004

Proliferation: “The proliferation of WMD is another urgent concern. Unless we act firmly and with unity, terrorist groups could one day acquire WMD with disastrous consequences.

“A threat to international security the issue of WSMD proliferation falls squarely within the Security Council’s mandate. We welcome the adoption of UNSCR 1540 as a demonstration of the Council’s willingness to engage on WMD proliferation, including the risk of WMD terrorism. We hope that with adoption of this resolution the Council will take a firmer and more active stance on WMD issues.”

“In this year’s First Committee, we, along with Turkey and Argentina, will introduce a resolution on “Prevention of the Illicit Transfer and Unauthorized Access to and Use of Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS).”

Terrorism: “We, the international community, cannot allow security threats to fester. What is required is new thinking, practical action and cooperation between governments. Obviously the UN has a primary role to play.”

“We have committed energy and resources to building counter-terrorism cooperation in our region, both bilaterally and through organizations such as APEC and the ARF. We are also committed to building understanding as part of a comprehensive approach.”

Austria
H.E. Dr. Benita Ferrero-Waldner, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

Multilateralism: "Austria is convinced that the only effective multilateralism based on the rule of law can address the new and complex challenges that the international community faces today."

"I would like to announce today that I have launched a discourse on the role and function of the Security Council in the strengthening of a rules-based international system. As a first step, we will organize a panel of international legal experts during the 'International Law Week' at the UN here in New York in November of this year, which will analyze the increasing law-making tendency of the Security Council."

Landmines: "Austria is honored to chair the first Review Conference of the Antipersonnel Mine Ban Convention in Nairobi later this year where the international community will chart a course for the solution of the landmine problem in the coming years. The Mine Ban Convention has become a true example of a successful and effective multilateral approach to address a global problem. I encourage all States to participate at the Nairobi Summit at the highest possible level."

Proliferation: "The proliferation of small arms and light weapons continues to be a serious threat to human security. The UN Programme of Action against the illicit trade of those weapons must be strengthened. First steps have already been taken with regard to the problem of marking and tracing of weapons, steps that may lead to a legally binding regime."

Security: "Security, as we see it, is human security. It is the kind of security all human beings are looking for: among them millions of civilians in all parts of the world affected by armed conflict, the majority of them women and children, and 40 million people living with the HIV virus. Human security transcends the concept of 'hard threats' and 'soft threats'. If we see those threats through the prism of the human beings concerned, it becomes clear that for the afflicted individual all of those threats- be they war or hunger, terrorism or deadly disease- deprive them of their security."

"To work for Human Security requires us to work together to fight the scourge of trafficking in human beings."

"As a Member of the Human Security Network, we cooperate with others to promote human security in the world. As one concrete example, Austria- together with Slovenia and Jordan- initiated and funded an aid project for traumatized children in Iraq. I am convinced that applying a human security perspective to international problems has the potential of energizing political processes aimed at preventing or solving conflicts and promoting peace and development.'

Terrorism: "Austria is committed to the full cooperation with other States and UN bodies involved in counter-terrorism and works to promote the whole range of UN action against Terrorism."

Azerbaijan
H.E. Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of
September 24, 2004

Terrorism: “Being one of the active members of the global coalition against international terrorism, Azerbaijan faithfully cooperates bilaterally and within multilateral frameworks to suppress this evil that continues to bring death and sufferings to innocent peoples.”

Bahamas
Hon. Frederick A. Mitchell, MP, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Public Service of
September 30, 2004

SALW: “We therefore welcome the convening in June 2004 of the first session of the open-ended working group to negotiate an international instrument to enable states to identify and trace, in a timely manner, illicit small arms and light weapons, some of the tools of undermining our safety and security and our economic and social fabric. This meeting was a small but important first step in reaching agreement on an instrument on tracing, to enable States affected by the illicit trade to more effectively identify lines of supply, put measures in place to interdict existing lines and prevent new ones, and to cooperate with other states at the bilateral, regional and international levels. At the same time, we continue to call on developed countries to take the same extraordinary measures they use in seeking to stop drug trafficking into their countries, to stop illegal small arms from reaching our shores from their countries.”

Nuclear waste: “We also reiterate our grave concern over the serious threat posed to the security and economic development of Caribbean countries by the transshipment of nuclear waste through the Caribbean Sea, and continue to call on States involved in transshipments to desist from this practice.”

Terrorism: “We also admonish all states that terrorism cannot be the excuse to limit freedom, and to dispense with the very liberties that we are trying to defend and that form the foundation of free and democratic societies.”

Bahrain
H.E. Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister of
September 24, 2004

Terrorism: “Foremost of these (enormous changes in international relations) is the nature of international terrorism in light of the liberalization of commerce and the movement of capital, as well as the movement of ideas and culture among nations, without impediment.”

“In this regard, Bahrain reaffirms its condemnation of terrorism in all its shapes and fonts, regardless of its sources or motivation. We reassert that there can be no justification whatsoever for terrorism, and that terrorist acts are not condoned by any religion or belief.

“Bahrain has condemned and continues to condemn terrorist acts against countries and peoples, by which innocent lives are lost, and reaffirms its solidarity with the brotherly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its support for all measures it has taken to overcome these criminal actions which contradict the principles and tenets of Islam, the religion of tolerance and benevolence…

“In examining terrorism and its threats, it is necessary to review its causes in order to limit its destructive danger. Among these causes we find poverty, ignorance, backwardness, unemployment, a culture of extremism, fundamentalism, ethnic prejudice, feelings of national desperation and violations of human rights.

“To address this terrorist phenomenon, and within the framework of regional cooperation to fight it, Bahrain and other countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council have this year signed the GCC Anti-Terrorism Agreement, an advanced step in overcoming this scourge that must be eradicated.”

Bangladesh
H.E. Mr. M. Morshed Khan, M.P., Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

Disarmament: "We believe that there is a direct relationship between disarmament and development. Bangladesh is party to all major international Conventions and Treaties on disarmament. We have denounced all weapons of mass destruction. Our geographical location makes nuclear weapons a direct and legitimate cause for concern for us in the South Asia region. Bangladesh, therefore, supports all measures partial and otherwise towards arms control, convention and nuclear disarmament."

Terrorism: "Extreme poverty is a gross denial of human rights. The disturbing experiences, including rise in senseless terrorism warn us that failure in development is not an option, that poverty can breed extremism, that to rid the world of its tragic consequences effectively, its roots causes must be addressed."

Barbados
Hon. Dame Billie A. Miller, Senior Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of
September 27, 2004

International security: “The dominant view in some parts of the world is that the most serious threats to international peace and security are the more recent virulent forms of terrorism, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and non-conventional weapons, and the spread of transnational criminal networks. For many others around the globe, however, particularly in the developing world, poverty, the spread of HIV/AIDS and other diseases, natural disasters, civil strife and other social, economic and environmental concerns remain the highest priority.”

Multilateralism: “…it is incumbent upon all Member States to reaffirm their commitment to and support for the multilateral process, using the United Nations as its primary vehicle.”

Belarus
H.E. Sergei Martynov, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of
September 29, 2004

Disarmament: “The contribution of the Republic of Belarus to regional and international security- starting with the nuclear and conventional disarmament in the early 90s- continues to be sizeable and real.”

Landmines: “On March 1, 2004, the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction entered-into-force in our country. We have the world’s seventh largest arsenal of such mines which we inherited from the Soviet Union. We do not produce, export or use antipersonnel landmines. Yet, guided by common interests, we have ratified the Ottawa Convention and count on the assistance of the international community in destroying this mine stockpile.”

Nuclear Energy: “From this rostrum, we propose to all our neighbors, to NATO and to the E.U. to engage in regional cooperation to secure critical infrastructure installations: oil and gas pipelines, electrical and nuclear power stations.”

“Affected and still experiencing the effects of the Chernobyl disaster, Belarus acutely realizes that mankind should not ignore the problem of radiation safety. The aftermath of radiological disasters is out of proportion, in its scale and duration, if compared to a human life span. The UN should be all means preserve its focus on the problem of overcoming the consequences of the Chernobyl disaster. It is necessary to develop further international Chernobyl cooperation, to provide UN support to the national initiatives and to improve coordination mechanisms of Chernobyl cooperation.

“We support the activity of the International Atomic Energy Agency aimed at maintaining nuclear non-proliferation regime, strengthening of nuclear and radiation safety.”

Security: “What do we want our common home to look like? Above all, I think, secure- where children would not die in terrorist attacks, of hunger, diseases, landmines ‘smart’ bombs and missiles.

“What should we do to achieve this? The answer is obvious: to create a comprehensive system of international security- in all its aspects: military, economic, environmental social and informational. The system based on the rule of law at home and in international affairs. The answer is obvious indeed, but the goal is hard to achieve.”

Terrorism: “We need unconventional, long-term and comprehensive solutions. Who and how can we ensure them? The United Nations and its key role alone. The Counter Terrorism Committee of the UN Security Council should become a practical instrument of restraining the expansion of international terrorism, strengthening the anti-terrorism coalition under the aegis of the United Nations, overseeing the implementation of requirements of the resolution 1373 and parting with the practice of double standards in fighting terrorism and terror.”

“In a day we will deposit our instruments of ratification and accession of the Republic of Belarus to such important international instruments in the sphere of security as the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism and the Protocol against Illicit Manufacturing and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition Supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime.”

Belgium
H.E. Mr. Karel de Gucht
September 24, 2004

Proliferation: “The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction poses a serious threat to world security. The regime of nonproliferation is jeopardized.

“North Korea must regain its place within this regime without delay.

The Islamic Republic of Iran is located in a region full of tension and its security concerns are legitimate… the Iranian Authorities must cooperate entirely with the IAEA and cease all activities linked to the enrichment of uranium.”

Terrorism: “Adequate military means and security measures will remain necessary in order to fight terrorism. But tackling it head-on will require other means than strictly military ones.

“Indeed, the favorable environment in which terrorism thrives comprises economic, political and ideological dimensions. That is why I plead for a genuine dialogue between the West and the Muslim and Arab world, not only between the political leaders but also with the spiritual leaders. Not as a mere exchange of ideas or points of view, but as an honest quest to identify the means that can deny terrorism all legitimacy and all ‘raison d’être.”

Belize
H.E. Mr. Stuart W. Leslie, Permanent Representative
September 30, 2004

Development and security: “In Haiti, we also have a clear example of the inextricable linkage between development and security. The threats and challenges to peace and security necessitate an integrated approach.”

SALW: “In our own community of small states, we face the most serious threat to our peoples’ security caused by the proliferation of small arms and light weapons that claim the lives of so many of our people daily; arms that come from countries that must be called upon to live up to their responsibility to cooperate with us to stem the flow of these lethal weapons and enter into legally binding agreements for the effective registration and monitoring of transfers of these weapons of widespread destruction. An International Convention to achieve this must be put on our agenda.”

Terrorism: “While we condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and have joined international efforts in the fight against terrorism, we are mindful that our actions for the preservation of peace and security must be consistent with international law and must be respectful of the human rights and freedoms of all peoples without discrimination, foremost among which must be the right to self-determination.”

Bhutan
H.E. Mr. Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 28, 2004

Terrorism: “There is an urgent need to take concerted action to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Every nation gathered here, by having signed the Charter of the United Nations, ascribes to the universal code that the methods which terrorist employ to achieve their aims, especially the targeting and killing of innocent civilians cannot be justified.”

Bolivia
H.E. Carlos D. Mesa Gisbery, President of the Republic of
September 22, 2004

Multilateralism: “We firmly believe in multilateralism and we strongly support the United Nations as the scenario of that multilateralism, and we are convinced that the time ahs come to produce a serious of reforms in the organization- comprehensive reforms.”

Terrorism: “The fight against terrorism must also be related to the fight against other scourges that are of concern to us all. In this context, Bolivia expresses its firmest commitment to the fight against drug trafficking, which is being conducted in Bolivia through the eradication of coca and also, through what has been a tradition of consumption in the country that needs to be dealt with.”

Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Mr. Sulejman Tihic, Chairman of the Presidency of
September 22, 2004

Terrorism: "Bosnia and Herzegovina is sincerely committed to combat the international terrorism and is the active participant in the International Antiterrorist Coalition. Terrorism is not the only threat to peace and security, but we also find it immoral and counterproductive."

Botswana
H.E. Mr. Festus G. Mogae, President of
September 23, 2004

International peace and security: "...international peace and security is under constant threat... As Africans, we accept our responsibility to find solutions to these conflicts. This is why we established the Peace and Security Council of the African Union in May this year. In its short history of existence, the Council has already deployed peacekeepers in Burundi, peace monitors in Darfur in the Sudan, and sent mediators and peace envoys to help negotiating solutions to conflicts elsewhere in the continent."

Terrorism: "Terrorism is one of the greatest challenges to international peace and security. No one country can defeat this scourge which has caused the loss of many lives across the globe. The activities of terrorists have become very complex and sophisticated. We need united, Stronger and concerted action by all the countries of the world to defeat this scourge which knows no boundaries."

Brazil
H.E. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of
September 21, 2004

International Peace and Security: “No organ is better suited than the UN for ensuring the world's convergence towards common goals. The Security Council is the only source of legitimate action in the field of international peace and security. But its composition must reflect today's reality – not perpetuate the post-World War II era. Reform proposals that simply dress the current structure in new clothes and do not provide for an increase in the number of permanent members are manifestly insufficient. The difficulties inherent to any reform process must not make us lose sight of its urgency.”

Terrorism: “The necessary fight against terrorism cannot be conceived strictly in military terms. We must develop strategies that encompass both solidarity and firmness, while strictly respecting international law.”

Brunei Darussalam
Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Special Envoy
September 28, 2004

DPRK: “In our region, we recognize that the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula has serious impact on the peace, stability and security of the Asia-Pacific. We appreciate the role of china, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Russia and the United States through the six party talks in seeking a solution through dialogue.”

Security: “Terrorism and weapons of mass destruction continue to pose serious threats. At the same time, poverty, environmental degradation and the spread of diseases cause further misery and hardship to millions.”

“All the various conventions and treaties, from nuclear nonproliferation to environmental conservation, are manifestations of how we and the United Nations aim at protecting our people as well as ensuring that they can live to their fullest potential.”

Terrorism: “It is therefore important to address (terrorism) in a comprehensive manner and in doing so, we need to identify and understand its real source and root causes. This is what we have to bear in mind if we were to achieve a long-term solution. At the same time, we must not allow terrorists from dividing us and undermining our determination to fight this menace collectively.”

Bulgaria
H.E. Dr. Solomon Passy, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

Security: “The respect for, and observance of internationally recognized standards of human rights by Member States is a pre-requisite both for their national security and sustainable development. It is also a pre-requisite for international peace and security.”

Terrorism: “International terrorism poses the most serious threat to international peace and security. This demands a coordinated and resolute action by all States and the entire international community. There are no causes that can justify terrorist acts. It is essential that terrorists do not get hold of weapons of mass destruction, nor distract us from our agenda outlined by the Millennium Declaration.”

“We are committed to pursue steadfastly this policy of ours, even though we have incurred damages and human losses.”

“Within the United Nations system the Security Council and its Counter Terrorism Committee are vested with the task of ensuring success in the fight against international terrorism. We share the opinion that Security Council resolution 1535 and the creation of the new Counter Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate have improved the coordination in this field. The Al Qaida and Taliban Committee beefed up in 2004 with the Monitoring Group and Sanctions Enforcement Support Team should also continue its positive influence.

“We actively support all efforts under the Security Council resolutions 1373 and 1267 in narrowing down the perimeters of action of terrorist organizations and suppressing their financing.”

Cambodia
H.E. Mr. Hor Namhong, Deputy Prime Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
September 27, 2004

Terrorism: “Since 9-11, the responses to terrorism at global, regional and national levels have been significant and massive. Cooperation in the fight against terrorism has been unprecedented in the history of information sharing and law enforcement. Nevertheless, in spite of the progress in our efforts, countries from around the world continue to suffer from terrorist attacks and innocent people continue to die from terrorist acts. Therefore, I believe that our response to this deadly threat to humanity must be more comprehensive. However, while fighting terrorism relentlessly, I also believe that we should do our best to understand the real root causes of terrorism. Until we are able to do this, then we can hope to eliminate terrorism.”

Canada
H.E. Mr. Paul Martin, Prime Minister of
September 22, 2004

Export controls: "The UN's nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, needs stronger tools and political support. We need more rigorous controls on sensitive nuclear technology, and the Security Council must be prepared to deal with non-compliance effectively."

"We need a multilateral watchdog to assist the Security Council in resolving weapons-related issues in states of concern. The UN should establish a permanent inspection and verification mechanism that can reinforce and supplement existing verification systems."

PAROS: "Space is our final frontier. It has always captured our imagination. What a tragedy it would be if space became one big weapons arsenal and the scene of a new arms race. In 1967, the United Nations agreed that weapons of mass destruction must not be based in space. The time has come to extend this ban to all weapons."

Proliferation: "(a) Responsibility to Deny... encompasses the need to ensure that weapons of mass destruction do not spread to states or terrorists prepared to use them under any circumstances, and especially against innocent civilians. Non-proliferation and disarmament remain fundamental pillars of the UN's commitment to international peace and security."

Verification: "... multilateralism has been challenged by dramatic changes in the security climate, and there is a clear need to make our systems stronger and more responsive. Strict verification is the key. "

Chile
H.E. Mr. Ricardo Lagos Escobar, President of
September 21, 2004

Civil Society: "We are thus convinced that globalization will be better only if civil society is recognized as one of its principal actors."

Multilateralism: "No one can shape the world that is emerging except through agreements and negotiations. The complexity of the world emerging before our eyes is too great to be handled in a centralized manner."

"In our view, the best way to guide the agenda of globalization is through multilateralism. It is in the strengthening of multilateralism that each country has a stake and a national task to fulfill."

Terrorism: "Nothing is more counter to our principles than terrorism, a virtual 'dark force' of globalization. Accordingly, here in the United Nations, Chile has contributed through its efforts in chairing both the Al Qaeda/Taliban Security Council Sanctions Committee and the Counter-Terrorism Committee, key instruments of the international community for waging this combat."

Transparency: "In addition, the United Nations needs specialization, not a proliferation of similar institutions. It needs greater accountability and a more transparent system of recruitment. It needs to derive the maximum benefit from every last cent that it spends."

China
H.E. Mr. Li Zhaoxing, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 27, 2004

Security: “In tackling security issues, it is imperative to foster a new security concept of mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality and cooperation. This new concept calls for nations to transcend their differences in ideology and social system, respect each other’s security interests, promote greater democracy in international relations and seek peaceful solutions to disputes through dialogue.”

Proliferation: “The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction poses a threat to world peace and security. Nonproliferation efforts, therefore, require participation of all members of the international community. It is likewise important to discard unilateralism and double standards and give full credit and fully play to the role of the UN.

“China takes an active part in multilateral nonproliferation efforts and firmly defends the international regime of arms control, disarmament and nonproliferation treaties. China holds that multilateral arms control, disarmament and nonproliferation processes be steadily promoted so as to further improve the international nonproliferation regime.”

“China will, as always, work to resolve the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula through dialogue and talks in the interest of peace and stability on the Peninsula.”

Terrorism: “Terrorism is the common enemy of the whole world. China stands firmly opposed to terrorism, in all forms and manifestations. To forestall and fight terrorism, we must intensify international cooperation and address both the causes and symptoms of the threat. Only when the root cause of terrorism is eradicated can the peoples live in peace and tranquility again.”

Colombia
H.E. Mr. Alvaro Uribe Velez, President of
September 29, 2004

Security: “Democratic security is one of the elements of Colombia’s highest priorities: to recover credibility and confidence by our citizens in our institutions. When that trust is destroyed, the ties between the citizen and the nation are broken. Such trust needs transparent public and private actions, as well as economic reactivation and social cohesion.”

“If we neglect democratic security, terrorism will grow, we will lose momentum in defeating it, investment will be affected, the strength of our economic recovery will weaken and we would be left without resources for social investment.”

Terrorism: “The terrorism in one country feeds and strengthens terrorist networks throughout the world.”

“We ask the world for more decisive and more effective support if it is extended, the violent groups will have no option but to abandon terrorism and to accept peace.

“With the people of Colombia, its democratic institutions and the international community united, we can make Colombia an example of the capacity to defeat terrorism and to observe human rights; and we can make Colombia an example of the capacity to defeat terrorism and of the will to build social justice.”

Costa Rica
H.E. Dr. Abel Pacheco de la Espriella, President of
September 21, 2004

Arms Expenditures: "It is noteworthy that, in 2003, the world reached a new record by devoting 956 billion dollars to military expenditure. This represents seventeen times the amount of resources devoted, worldwide, to official development assistance and more than the sum of the foreign debt of the 64 countries with the lowest GDP.

"...As pointedly noted by Dr. Oscar Arias, former president of Costa Rica and Nobel Peace prize, 'the billions of dollars spent every year on weapons and on military contingents deprive the world's poorest people's of the chance of fulfilling their basic needs."

Disarmament: "States should have greater opportunities to access international cooperation, credit and the markets while the prices should be fair, reflecting the real costs. It is not fair that poor countries, such as Costa Rica, that are making efforts in the areas of disarmament, respect for human rights, labor justice, protection of the environment and greater social investment be penalized by excluding them from the lists of beneficiaries of cooperation programs and from systems of preferential treatment for the access of their products to the markets of developed countries."

Security: "...mankind has not understood yet that security does not result from a multiplication of the weapons but from a multiplication of the loaves of bread. Peace and security are built, in the first place, by combating injustice, satisfying the basic needs, striving for common social goals and by a fair and honest government.

"The aphorism that 'the security of one is inseparable from the security of all' becomes truer every day. Global democratic governance requires strengthening both the United Nations and the competences of the General Assembly."

Small Arms: "In this regard, Costa Rica fully supports the draft Framework Convention on International Arms Transfers. That project, based on the obligations already undertaken by states, seeks to regulate the export of weapons, their marking and tracing, in order to prevent any arms transfers to terrorist and rebel groups and to those states that breach international humanitarian law or basic human rights principles."

Terrorism: "Allow me to refer to one of the worst scourges that affect the peaceful relations among the nations: the threat of terrorism...

"The international society must confront, firmly and resolutely, all acts of terrorism, whose painful and deadly consequences distress so many nations and so many innocent victims. It is essential to co combat all forms of terrorism as well as its sources of financing and safe havens...

"The coordination of the struggle against terrorism must be assigned to an independent, professional and permanent organ located at the center of this Organization.

For this reason, we propose the creation of a United Nations High Commissioner on Terrorism that would assist the Security Council, as well as the General Assembly and the ECOSOC, in the comprehensive fight against this threat and its causes. Only by creating such an organ, that would assemble resources and multiply efforts, it will be possible to respond adequately and jointly to the challenge posed by international terrorism."

Croatia
H.E. Dr. Ivo Sander, Prime Minister of
September 22, 2004

CTBT: "Croatia has consistently supported bringing into force the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty and we call on those that have not yet done so to sign and ratify the CTBT as soon as possible."

Landmines: "We encourage those countries that have not signed or ratified the Ottawa Convention to do so without delay. As a country that has directly experienced the disastrous effect of landmines, Croatia is particularly concerned with the continuation of their spread."

Multilateralism: "Effective regional action also remains important. In this respect, while we are aware of the irreplaceable importance of global multilateralism, a growing signficance of the regional organizations has to be emphasized. In today's world, regional organizations have an increasingly important role to play, in accord with the major multilateral institutions, primarily the United Nations."

NPT: "My country considers arms control to be a pivotal instrument of its security policy. I would like to reiterate our continued support for the further strengthening of major international disarmament and non-proliferation instruments, such as the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. We expect concrete results from the upcoming NPT Review Conference in 2005."

SALW: "Equal importance should be given to prevent illict trafficking in small arms and light weapons. Their uncontrolled proliferation not only fuels regional conflicts, but also plays a considerable role in terrorism, drug trafficking and organized crime. Croatia has achieved commendable progress in this field and is prepared to assist others, both in our region and beyond."

Terrorism: "Tragic events in recent years, from New York to Moscow, from the Middle East all the way to Southern Asia, have confirmed that terrorism currently stands out as the most pressing threat to our world, taking thousands of innocent lives at random."

"Croatia commends and fully supports the ongoing activities of the Counter-Terrorism Committee, and welcomes its recent reform. However, the Committee has to improve its outreach in order to provide a comprehensive and truly effective multilateral response to this precarious scourge."

Verification: " My country believes that particular emphasis should be placed on establishing and refining effective verification mechanisms for the CTBT and the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention."

WMD: "Equally dangerous (to terrorism) is the threat of weapons of mass destruction. We must resort to all means required to prevent the proliferation of these vehicles of death. If synergized- terrorism and WMD- they could bring upon mankind a level of destruction of an unforeseeable scale."

"We equally recognize the importance of the Security Council Committee established by the Resolution 1540 with the goal of stopping the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and expect to see all countries submitting their first reports on the matter."

Cuba
H.E. Mr. Felipe Pérez Roque, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004

General and Complete Disarmament: “General and complete disarmament, including nuclear disarmament, is impossible today. It is the responsibility of a group of developed countries that are the ones that most sell and buy weapons. However, we must continue to strive for it. We must demand that the over US$900 billion set aside every year for military expenditures be used on development…”

Nuclear weapons: (quoting President Castro): “The noise of weapons, of the menacing language, of the haughtiness on the international scene must cease. Enough of the illusion that the problems of the world can be solved by nuclear weapons. Bombs may kill the hungry, the sick and the ignorant, but bombs cannot kill hunger, disease and ignorance. Nor can bombs kill the righteous rebellion of the people.”

Terrorism: “The fight against terrorism can only be won through cooperation among all nations and with respect for international law, and not through massive bombings of pre-emptive wars against ‘dark corners of the world."

Cyprus
H.E. Mr. Tassos Papdopoulos, President of
September 23, 2004

Landmines: "...my Government has recently proposed... the extension of the so far unilateral de-mining process."

Terrorism: "We share the assessment of the Secretary-General in his Report that our endeavour of consolidating effective multilateralism in a flexible and versatile United Nations is the best way to address the complete spectrum of global crises... Such consolidation also applies to security deficits and particularly terrorism the underlying causes of which we have been unable to eliminate despite our concerted efforts. We consider that the conclusion of a United Nations comprehensive convention against terrorism is important in order to facilitate the elimination of the threat posed by terrorism, in the framework of international legality."

Czech Republic
H.E. Mr. Cyril Svoboda, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 29, 2004

Security: “Security- or lack of it- has emerged as the most challenging problem. International terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, regional conflicts, state failure or organized crime- these are the threats menacing all of us.”

Terrorism: “The diffusion of targets and absolute resolve mean that terrorist threats have completely permeated our public and private space, each area of which has become a place of defense. All this could ultimately lead to very disagreeable restrictions in certain freedoms and rights. And this takes us full circle. If we are lax in understanding our roots and values, if we do not have a comprehensive grasp of human rights, we could find that in the end we are unable to cope with the uneasy balance between security and freedom.

“Terrorist attacks are not just a reaction… to our provocation… Their ideology is aggressive and expansive… each offer we make to negotiate, each sign of unwillingness to defend ourselves is seen by them as further proof of our weakness and, by extension, of their ‘right’ to assume control of declining society.

“In the fight against terrorism, nobody can stay neutral. And the UN has to pave the way for this fight at the global level. To be sure, the Counter-Terrorism Committee has done an outstanding job in overseeing the implementation of Security Council Resolution 1373 and facilitating the universal acceptance of the UN conventions on terrorism, but certainly more can and should be done.”

DPRK
H.E. Mr. Choe Su Hon, Head of DPRK Delegation
September 27, 2004

Disarmament: “Denuclearizing the Korean peninsula is our goal, and it is the consistent position of the DPRK to address the nuclear issue between the DPRK and the US peacefully through dialogue and negotiations.”

“In order to further clarify our will to dismantle the nuclear deterrent, we had intended to include in our freeze no more manufacturing of nuclear weapons, and no test and transfer of them.”

International security: “Today, the main factor undermining international peace and stability is unilateralism and high-handed acts based on the ‘logic’ of power.”

Nuclear weapons: “The DPRK is left with no other option but to possess a nuclear deterrent in the face of the situation in which the present US administration, being accustomed to rejecting our system, has been attempting to eliminate the DPRK by force while designating it as part of an ‘axis of evil’ and a target of preemptive nuclear strikes.”

“The nuclear deterrent of the DPRK constitutes a legitimate self-defensive means to counter ever-growing US nuclear threat and aggression against the DPRK and reliably defend sovereignty, peace and security of the country.”

Denmark
H.E. Dr. Per Stig Moller, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

DDR: “In order to build sustainable peace, much more attention needs to be given to civilian aspects of crisis management. This includes demobilization and reintegration of combatants, as well as social, economic and legal reconstruction of war-torn societies.”

Multilateralism: “The challenge is to develop credible, effective, and comprehensive UN responses to the threats and challenges of the new Millennium. Be it conflict prevention, conflict resolution and peace building. Be it the fight against terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction…”

Proliferation: “…we must strengthen international agreements to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Denmark therefore supports Security Council resolution 1540, and looks forward to its full implementation.”

Terrorism and WMD: “Terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction are serious threats to peace and security and impede progress towards stability and prosperity… Terrorists must be stopped by hard power and soft power to prevent decades of unrest and terror.”

“The United Nations must take a leading role in the fight against terrorism, providing both the framework for global efforts and the legitimacy for collective action.”

“The main responsibility for fighting terrorism lies with individual states. This includes compliance with relevant Security Council resolutions as well as ratification and implementation of the twelve UN Terror Conventions. Denmark supports efforts to reinvigorate the Counter Terrorism Committee, CTC… (which) must be better focused and linked with the assistance extended to countries who have the will but lack the means to meet the requirements of Security Council irresolution 1373.”

Djibouti
H.E. Mr. Ismail Omar Guelleh
September 22, 2004

Arms expenditures: "Conflict, of course, requires weapons; and reducing this peril calls for a halt in arms shipments. These shipments divert vital resources from other critical needs. The countries of Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa spend some $22 billion for arms each year, more than two thirds the value of arms deliveries worldwide."

DDR: "It is now the responsibility of the international community to at in tandem in a strong and decisive manner to assist Somalia by... tackl(ing) the security issues head-on, in particular, with the implementation of Demobilization, Disarmament and Reintegration programs."

Security: "... there is a mounting recognition that global poverty and inequality threaten national security interests."

Terrorism: "Although there is no disputing the fact that (terrorism) must be confronted promptly and vigorously, the knee-jerk reaction of crushing it militarily fails to address its many manifestations, or get at its roots and causes. As we contemplate solutions to problems, or seek a way out of political predicaments that have been building quietly for decades, we need to pay extra caution to our prejudices, biases and fears."

"Now, in the post-9/11 world, a new rationale for aid is emerging. Aid is increasingly seen as a potent force in the war on terror by providing support to both frontline and weak states where terrorism could breed."

Dominica
Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister of
September 24, 2004

Security: “Every cent spent on addressing (terrorism) is a cent taken from our campaign to sustain the fight against trafficking in narcotic drugs and human beings, the pandemic of HIV/AIDS and other communicable diseases, and degradation of our common environment. Water security, food security, energy security and health security are other important goals that stand to suffer if additional resources are not found to pursue them.”

“Developments over the last year have underscored that peace and security in the world, social progress, and economic prosperity require a consensus of member states, the strict implementation of universal norms, and commitment to multilateral action.”

SALW: “In the Caribbean region, as well as other regions of the world, we are witnessing the devastating impact of the proliferation of small arms. As a consequence, crime rates are increasing and civil conflicts are on the upsurge, which threaten the stability and security of developing countries such as mine.

“We therefore call for early conclusion of the negotiations of a legally binding international instrument to control the indiscriminate supply of small arms and light weapons to non-state actors.”

Terrorism: “My country is alarmed at the rise of terrorism in the world. Indeed as we move toward a more united world where people of different races and colors are called upon to pay higher standards of respect and tolerance for each other, violent solutions are counter productive and have unintended consequences of harming mere bystanders.”

“The focus on terrorism and the costs of complying with the requirements to prevent terrorist attacks in a region that is renowned as a zone of peace, are challenging our commitment to social and economic development.”

Ecuador
H.E. Mr. Patricio Zuquilanda, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004

Multilateralism: “Ecuador, as a founding member of the United Nations, accords its resolute support to the multilateral system, as it constitutes the best guarantee for the validity of the purposes and principles that led to its creation and which are enshrined in its charter.”

Security: “The international community needs to make the protection and security of all individuals a world policy objective. The security of the state, of society and of individuals must consider the threats to their fundamental values: sovereignty, identity and survival, and on that basis, to establish the dimensions of political, economic, and military action in a globalized world.”

Terrorism: “This phenomenon has endangered the balance, the peace, the concord, and the security of the entire planet, as well as its socio-political fabric, its financial architecture, and state security concessions.

“I wish to reiterate the fullest and unrestricted support of the gov’t of Ecuador to all initiatives and actions formulated to fight international terrorism in all its forms and characteristics, but always within the framework of the decisions of the Untied Nations, of international law and of the absolute respect of human rights.”

“…harsh realities faced every day by developing countries also represent at threat to world security. In consequence, they must launch at the same time a frontal combat against terrorism in a broad and concerted world strategy to foster development, improve the living conditions of a large part of the marginalized world population and encourage dialogue and tolerance, both between human beings as well as between the states.

“True to its convinctions and principles, as well as to its international commitments, the government of Ecuador has deployed its best efforts towards the effective enforcement of international regulations with respect to the prevention and suppression of terrorism; particularly of Security Council resolution 1373, for which it has designed a broad strategy that includes legislative, administrative, law enforcement and other measures…"

Egypt
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 24, 2004

Nuclear Weapons: “The main threat to the Middle East, and perhaps adjacent regions as well, flows from the continued acquisition by some of nuclear weapons. While we all agree on the dangers of those weapons, and the need to halt their proliferation, as a step towards their elimination and ridding humanity of the threats they pose, the international community continues to be selective in addressing the question of WMD. The international community seeks to impose a firm regime to monitor the imports of all member states of the nonproliferation regime, among them are all the Arab states. The same international community, however, turns a blind eye at the continued stockpiling of nuclear capabilities by one party in the region.”

NWFZ: “…in order to ease that tension and to avert those dangers, President Mubarak launched in 1990 Egypt’s initiative to create a Middle East zone free from WMDs.”

Terrorism: “For more than a decade, Egypt has called, and continues to call, for the convening of an international conference, under the auspices of the United Nations, to consider the phenomenon of terrorism and to agree on means to combat it through effective and collective international efforts. Proceeding from our belief in the importance and centrality of the role of the United Nations, (whether through the GA or the Security Council), in the coordination of international efforts to combat terrorism, we propose that the GA establish an open-ended working group to consider proposals to increase the effectiveness and the efficiency of the UN and its ability to achieve the international goals in the area of combating terrorism. This can be accompanied by the convening of regional preparatory meetings to catalog the regional needs and the areas of cooperation on the international level. This in turn could lead us, ultimately, to the adoption of the draft comprehensive framework convention to combat terrorism in a high-level international summit.”

“We will not be able to eradicate the threat of terrorism without an equitable and just international economic and social system in which we must take into account the needs of the others as much as we strive to achieve our own interests.”

El Salvador
H.E. Mr. Elías Antonio Saca, President of
September 22, 2004

Terrorism: "International and international conflicts, terrorism, transnational organized crime, the persistence of extreme poverty, environmental degradation and the irresolute problems of development have a global character that require a central harmonizer that harnesses the efforts of the international community to find a common and consensus-based solution."

Estonia
H.E. Mr. Arnold Ruutel, President of
September 22, 2004

Security: "Abatement of poverty in the world, which is one of the central issues on the global development agenda, would facilitate international stability and security... High level international conferences held in Doha, Monterrey and Johannesburg showed us the direction we should move; now we need concrete deeds."

Ethiopia
H.E. Mr. Seyoum Mesfin, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 28, 2004

Terrorism: “We all agree that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is a crime against humanity. As our Secretary-General rightly stated in his address to this august Assembly, ‘no cause, no grievance, however legitimate in itself can begin to justify such acts.’ Thus the international community should fight this scourge with resolve and in unison.”

Eritrea
H.E. Mr. Ali Said Abdella, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 29, 2004

no references to disarmament, security, terrorism etc.

Finland
H.E. Mr. Tarja Halonen, President of
September 21, 2004

Multilateralism: "There is no sustainable alternative to multilateralism. The international community must recognize its collective responsibility. We must be able to intervene and prevent situations in which where human rights are seriously violated."

Fiji
Hon. Laisenia Qarase, Prime Minister of
September 24, 2004

Disarmament: “Fiji, as always, is committed to the maintenance of peace and security, and to a world free of weapons of mass destruction and terrorism.”

Terrorism: “The plea from Fiji is for the UN member countries to strengthen their joint resolve to oppose political terror everywhere. This is a critical time in history; the UN is called to mobilize all its experience, its skills and its powers to create concord among nations.”

“(The Pacific Islands Forum) will come together to combat the threat of terror, to improve law enforcement and our defenses against terrorism and transnational crime.”

France
H.E. Mr. Michel Barnier, Foreign Minister of
September 23, 2004

NPT: "The threat of proliferation, which is liable to merge with terrorism, calls for resolute and sustained action. The non-proliferation regime has been seriously undermined by the combined action of certain states and non-state actors. That is why strengthening the existing instruments is essential. The NPT review conference in 2005 will be an opportunity to do so."

Terrorism: "We wage a merciless fight against terrorism. let us at the same time address its roots. This means: put an end to situations that terrorists exploit; give the world's excluded hope again; restore dignity to peoples deprived of it; see that dialogue and cooperation among civilizations, cultures and religions prevail rather than conflict and intolerance."

Gambia
H.E. Alhaji Dr. Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh, President of
September 23, 2004

Terrorism: "Terrorism is not for any one individual state to fight. It is a phenomenon that calls for strong inter-state collaboration and assistance...And while the needs of some countries, including mine, have been adequately identified, assistance has been slow in coming. My delegation welcomes the creation of a directorate to help give effect to resolution 1373, and looks forward to a speedy commencement of its operations, especially with regard to the assistance needs of member states."

Georgia
H.E. Mikheil Saakashvili, President of
September 21, 2004

Confidence Building Measures: "...initiate confidence building measures that follow a plan, so that new forms of trust are established that create lasting human bonds between peoples. These measures can include exchanges that link NGOs to NGOs... Building confidence means pursuing joint economic projects that create wealth where today there is want... and create profits where now there is poverty."

DDR: "Specific measures... begin with removing the instruments of war through demilitarization and eliminating the climate of fear through decriminalization."

"Today, Georgia needs bridges not bases, roads and not rockets, and we need cooperation, not competition when it comes to eliminating sources of instability and terror."

Terrorism: "In the context of our cooperation with international anti-terrorism efforts, we especially value the work of the Antiterrorist Committee of the Security Council and support the idea of strengthening the Terrorism Prevention Branch of the Secretariat."

"...uncontrolled zones breed crime, drug trafficking, arms trading and most notable(y), terrorism."

Verification: "These (CBMs) will require monitoring, verification and transparency, so that our collective march towards peace can be visible for all."

Germany
H.E. Mr. Joschka Fischer, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 23, 2004

Multilateralism: "We are convinced there is no alternative to a world acting multilaterally. And to make this multilateral cooperation sustainable and capable, we need a courageous and comprehensive reform of the UN."

Security: " On the one hand, there are threats to national and global security such as the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, the nuclear threat, the danger posed by failed states or, as we all painfully remember in this city, by terrorism.

"On the other hand, there are also so-called 'soft' threats such as far-reaching environmental and climatic changes, poverty, major shortfalls in education and training and the negative aspects of globalization, refugee flows, disease and epidemics such as HIV/AIDS and malaria. They are a threat to security and stability and take a heavy toll."

Ghana
H.E. Mr. Alhaji Aliu Mahama, Vice-President of
September 23, 2004

Multilateralism: "11th September reminds us of the importance of seeking a multilateral and peaceful means for the maintenance of international peace and security, especially now when it has become evident that only collective, multilateral efforts will suffice to defeat the new scourge of mankind- global terrorism>'

Greece
H.E. Mr. Petros Molyviatis, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

International security: "Besides the scourge of terrorism, however, there are many more challenges and grave problems that afflict humanity. Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, human trafficking, organized crime, failing states, environmental catastrophes, social and economic crises, pandemics, large scale humanitarian disasters, hunger and poverty, constitute the core problems we have to face in solidarity regardless of geography, culture or religion."

Terrorism: "Fighting international terrorism has become the most pressing task among our priorities. In this fight, we must prevail."

"Terrorism cannot be a weapon to achieve political goals and terrorist attacks cannot be justified by any means."

Grenada
H.E. Dr. Lamuel A. Stanislaus, Permanent Representative
September 30, 2004

no references to disarmament, security, terrorism etc.

Guatemala
H.E. Mr. Oscar Berger Perdomo, President of
September 22, 2004

no references to disarmament, security, terrorism etc.

Guyana
H.E. Mr. S.R. Insanally, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Republic of
September 29, 2004

SALW: “The process underway to stem the illicit global trade in small arms and light weapons… commands Guyana’s full support.”

Terrorism: “The scourge of terrorism has now reached a scale where it has been aptly described as a Third World War. Scarce resources must now be diverted from development to the war on terror. Yet the rampage of destruction continues unrestrained.”

“The process underway … to forge more effective international instruments against terrorism and transnational crime commands Guyana’s full support.”

Holy See
H.E. Archbishop Giovanni Lajolo, Secretary for the Holy See’s Relations with States
September 29, 2004

General and complete disarmament: “Of immediate relevance to the supreme good of peace is the theme of total and general disarmament. If it is true that the production and sale of arms to other countries endangers peace, it follows that severe and effective international controls are needed.”

Terrorism: “The underlying causes are many and complex: political, social, cultural, religious; for this reason, what is still more important is long-term action, directed, with foresight and patience, at its roots, designed to stop it from spreading further and to extinguish its deadly contagious effects.”

WMD: “The problem of weapons of mass destruction is clearly to be distinguished from that of conventional weapons; but the latter have a terrible and unending contemporary relevance in the numerous armed conflicts that stain the world with blood, and also in terrorism.”

Hungary
H.E. Mr. Gábor Bródi, Deputy State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of
September 29, 2004

NPT: “In our fast-changing security environment worldwide, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons is and should remain the cornerstone of the universal non-proliferation regime. Along with our E.U. partners, we are committed to safeguard the authority and the integrity of the Treaty. It is also in this context that we are looking forward to the 7th Review Conference of the NPT next year.”

Proliferation: “The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery continue to be a clear and present threat to international peace and security. New discoveries of large-scale nuclear weapon programs, networks of illicit trafficking in nuclear material and technology and the ill-conceived policies of denial and deceit about their purpose and nature, remain a most serious concern to the international community.”

“Hungary strongly supports the implementation of Security Council resolution 1540, calling on all states to establish effective national export controls. We call for the full implementation of this resolution. In addition to that, we are prepared to assist others in doing so.”

Terrorism: “We fully support the important work of the Counter-Terrorism Committee of the Security Council. We hope that its reinvigorated activity, including planned visits by the CTC to Member States, will contribute to the enhancement of our capability to combat terrorism.”

Iceland
H.E. Mr. Geir H. Haarde, Minister of Finance and acting Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004

Multilateralism: “Iceland is totally committed to the multilateral system of which the UN is the fulcrum. Without an effective multilateral system conflict and its causes will be much more difficult to address. But to be effective the system needs to change.”

Terrorism: “The war against terrorism is a struggle against barbarism. The perpetrators of terror must be rooted out and their bases and networks destroyed. This war is inherently a campaign in support of the values the UN seeks to foster and it is in response to a threat which has serious implications for all member states of our organization. Our challenge is to actively defend freedom against the forces of tyranny to affect the conditions which help create the specter of terrorism.”

India
H.E. Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of
September 23, 2004

Disarmament: "As far back as 1988, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had outlined a series of specific steps in an Action Plan, whose central proposition remains valid- that progressive steps toward the elimination of weapons of mass destruction must be based on a balance of obligations between those who possess such weapons and those who do not. It is quite evident today that a global discussion is required for evolving a more cooperative and consensual international security order. India believes that this consensus must differentiate between States whose actions strengthen non-proliferation and those that weaken its objective."

Multilateralism: "Democracy's representative nature validates the commitments we take on as countries; it should also determine the manner in which the architecture of international institutions evolves. For what is required for the international community to successfully deal with global challenges, whether they be security challenges, economic challenges or challenges in the sphere of the environment are the existence of international institutions and a culture of genuine multilateralism."

Proliferation: "There is an increasing reliance on restrictive regimes and the use of punitive action to confront (the threat of WMD proliferation). While India is opposed to proliferation and has an impeccable record in this respect, we believe that it is only a global consensus of willing nations that would ultimately prove to be more effective in this regard.

"The Chemical Weapons Convention is a good model to follow in respect of other weapons of mass destruction including nuclear weapons. It is through representative institutions rather than exclusive clubs of privileged countries that we can address global threats posed by proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery."

Terrorism: "Terrorism is one such (transnational) challenge for which many of us have paid an unacceptable price... Terrorism exploits the technologies spawned by globalization, recruits its foot soldiers on ideologies of bigotry and hatred, and directly targets democracies. And yet it is an sad reality that international networks of terror appear to cooperate more and effectively among themselves than the democratic nations that they target. We speak about cooperation, but seem hesitant to commit ourselves to a global offensive to root out terrorism..."

Indonesia
H.E. Dr. N. Hassan Wirajuda, Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 27, 2004

Terrorism: “Our faith remains firm that the fight against terror can be won. The world can be made immensely safer. But the global coalition to defeat terrorism must be inclusive. It must be multilateral and democratic. It must empower the moderates of the world.

“And it must address the root causes of terrorism: the grievances and the poignant sense of injustice that drive human beings to such depths of despair, they would carry out the most heinous acts of mass murder and destruction.

“It must address the grievances due to poverty that is the offshoot of social and economic inequities, the affronts of tyranny and corruption, and the failure of states to deliver a standard of living that befits human dignity. They include grievances due to political oppression, such as the aggression and brutalities that the Palestinian people continue to suffer in the hands of the occupying power.

“For the coalition that would fight terrorism and poverty to be truly multilateral and democratic, it must include the regional organizations, which have been envisioned in the UN Charter as the pillars of global multilateralism.”

Iran
H.E. Dr. Kamal Kharrazi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 24, 2004

Disarmament and Proliferation: “… one particular area that requires resolute action by the international community is the existence and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction… Iran feels very strongly about the absolute imperative of a collective and rule based multilateral campaign to eradicate all these weapons and to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons as an interim measure. This must be done by the universal application of disarmament and nonproliferation instruments in a comprehensive and non-discriminatory manner.”

NWFZ: “Iran has been in the forefront of efforts to establish a zone free from weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East.”

Security: “Extremism has two distinct and yet interconnected faces: violence and terrorism of non-state actors and unbridled militarism of states. The former leads to increasing insecurity and the latter to increasing lawlessness. Insecurity is manifested in the horrendous acts of extreme violence and terrorism; whether it is in Iraq, Afghanistan or in Russia. Lawlessness is manifested in going outside of the law among nations and the UN Charter, relying on the glorification of force and the brute use of the military might. Lawless militarism of the powerful has given rise to increasing violence and terrorism and is also marketed as the panacea to them.”

Terrorism: “As terrorism has become an international challenge, an effective fight against it requires a global approach based on collective cooperation under the provisions of the UN Charter as well as the principles of the international law…

“The Islamic Republic of Iran strongly condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and we have demonstrated our strong conviction in fighting terrorism by the arrest and hand over of the greatest number of Al-Qaeda members apprehended by any single state to date… However, the prevailing international approach which is primarily a law and order approach is clearly failing to curb terrorism. We need to revisit our premises and try to develop a genuinely collective, inclusive and well-rounded and multi-disciplinary approach, if we are serious about this fight. No state can even come close to doing it alone.”

Transparency: “…the legitimate disarmament and nonproliferation concerns of the international community must be addressed through transparency and vigorous application of monitoring mechanisms. Iran has always been prepared to contribute actively to this global effort.”

Universality: “The (arms control) multilateral instruments must become truly universal and the rights and obligations of all must be scrupulously enforced. Access to technology for peaceful purposes is the only true incentive for the universality of these instruments.”

Ireland
H.E. Mr. Brian Cowen, T.D., Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

Conventional weapons: "The proliferation of conventional weapons is causing enormous death and destruction. Concerted international action is required to effectively tackle their devastating impact on societies worldwide, particularly in developing countries. It is a sobering statistic that annual global spending on defense is estimated to be in the region of 950 billion euros. We need to progressively reallocate the world's resources towards more peaceful and developmental purposes."

Landmines: "This year we commemorate the fifth anniversary of the entry-into-force of the Ottawa Convention on Landmines. I look forward to the first Review Conference in Nairobi which will not only provide an opportunity to measure progress made but also to consider how to achieve universal respect for the principles and application of this important Treaty."

NPT: "During the period of this General Assembly, we will meet to review again the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Ireland and its partners in the New Agenda Coalition are determined to strengthen the Treat, and to ensure respect for its provisions, and we call on all States to make this a key priority. THe possession of nuclear weapons by States outside the Treaty, and non-compliance with its provisions by States Parties is a grave concern.

"Ireland is convinced that disarmament and non-proliferation are mutually reinforcing and that both must be vigorously pursued. We need therefore to build on the outcome of the 2000 Review Conference, which, in thirteen practical steps, provided a realistic and coherent blueprint for achieving nuclear disarmament. A firm commitment to, and a clear prospect of, nuclear disarmament, combined with a rigorous control regime, would help to strip nuclear weapons of the attraction that they now possess for some States. Let us therefore rededicate ourselves to the task of consigning nuclear weapons, and all weapons of mass destruction, to the dustbin of history. It is an ideal, but one worth striving for."

SALW: "Here at the United Nations, I welcome the progress made towards the negotiation of an INstrument on tracing and marking small arms and light weapons, an instrument which I hope will be legally binding."

Terrorism: "Terrorism can rarely be defeated by exclusively military or security means, though they are obviously a very necessary component in the fight against terrorism. It is necessary, at the same time, to address the root causes of terrorism....

"Let there be no misunderstanding. I offer no excuses for terrorism. Terrorism is evil. But it is my strong belief that people are not born evil. At a certain point in their life, something-perhaps a particular event or the experience of indoctrination- causes them to embrace evil. To seek to address that root cause is not to be soft on terrorism. It is the intelligent way to attack terrorism.

"Terrorism tests the effectiveness of our national and collective security systems, but it also tests the quality of our institutions, including our systems of justice, and the strength of our values. As we seek to protect ourselves, we must ensure that these institutions remain strong, that democratic values are not undermines, that our systems of justice are not compromised and that our struggle is conducted in full respect for international law and human rights norms. If we fail to do this, any success we achieve over terrorists will be at the expense of the way of life we seek to protect."

WMD: "Weapons of mass destruction, chemical, biological and nuclear, give rise to a unique- fear- a fear of widespread annihilation. This fear is itself a source of instability, and a clear threat to international peace and security. That such weapons might fall into the hands of terrorists is an appalling prospect."

Israel
H.E. Silvan Shalom, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 23, 2004

Proliferation: "Today we are also more united than ever in opposition to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The international community now realizes that Iran- with missiles that can reach London, Paris, Berlin and southern Russia- does not only pose a threat to the security of Israel, but to the security and stability of the whole world."

Terrorism: "...the world is beginning to realize what we, in Israel, have long known: That terrorism is a challenge to humanity as a whole, not just to individual countries; that the response to this global threat must also be global, if it is to be effective; that the threat of terrorism anywhere is a threat to freedom everywhere; that fighting terror is crucial to our ability to bring peace.

"There was a time, when the problems of terror, Islamic fundamentalism and Iranian nuclear ambition, were seen as local problems- Israel's problems- not challenges which threatened the community of nations as a whole."

Italy
H.E. Hon. Franco Frattini, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

Multilateralism: "In our globalized, interdependent world, the international organizations are expected to provide leadership not only through abstract formulations of general principles but also through effective, shared initiatives supported by broad consensus. Our priority is to strengthen the multilateral system and reinvigorate the role of the United Nations."

Terrorism: "This year's general debate unfolds against an international backdrop in which terrorist acts of great ferocity have become all too common."

Jamaica
H.E. Hon. K.D. Knight, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of
September 27, 2004

Nuclear weapons: “The threats and dangers we face are as valid as those arising from the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. These also demand collective action and in this Jamaica has been unrelenting in its support of effective measures for curtailing the spread of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction.”

Security: “International security is dangerously at risk. What is clear to us is that violence and the use of force cannot be the answer. We must embrace multilateralism and insist that international relations be guided by the rule of law as the basis for our collective security.”

SALW: “Small countries face particular dangers in maintaining stability and security. I am referring to the increasing production, distribution and proliferation of small arms and light weapons and sophisticated ammunition. These represent our greatest security threat. Small states do not produce these weapons but have become the principal victims. The influx of these weapons through various illicit channels is fuelling civil conflict and criminal violence, the extent and intensity of which beleaguer and often overwhelm national security forces. It is estimated in the 2004 Small Arms Survey that proliferation and misuse of small arms contributes annually to approximately 200-270,000 civilian deaths, 40% of which are concentrated in the Latin American and Caribbean region.

“Equally disturbing to us is the sufficient appreciation of these dangers by those countries which are the producers and source of the weapons. We maintain that such states have a duty to prevent illicit transfers beyond their borders. Additionally, we need more effective co-operation to regulate and restrict the movement of these weapons and to have an effective registration and monitoring of transfers operating within a framework of legally binding obligations. For this reason, it is urgent that we move to conclude the negotiations for an International Convention to achieve these objectives.”

Japan
H.E. Mr. Junichiro Koizumi, Prime Minister of
September 21, 2004

Disarmament: "...Japan has been at the forefront in promoting nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. Japan hopes to achieve a peaceful and safe world free of nuclear weapons. Furthermore, Japan has collaborated with other countries to prevent states of concern and non-state actors from acquiring weapons of mass destruction."

DDR: "Japan has been actively promoting Afghan efforts for disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR)."

Proliferation: "The nuclear and missile issues on the Korean Peninsula present a serious challenge to the peace and stability of Northeast Asia and to the international community as a whole. Japan is determined to continue to seek comprehensive resolution of the nuclear and missile issues and the abduction issue in line with the Pyongyang Declaration."

Security: "...Japan is advocating the concept of 'human security.' Based upon this idea, Japan is making efforts to realize a seamless transition from humanitarian assistance to reconstruction support in countries such as Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Timor-Leste."

Terrorism and WMD: "Today, the international community is striving to meet challenges that the founders of the United Nations could not have envisioned some sixty years ago. The fight against terrorism and efforts to ensure non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction are just a few examples of these challenges."

"Weapons of mass destruction, missiles and terrorism threaten international security in the world of today."

Jordan
H.E. Dr. Marwan Muasher, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 27, 2004

Terrorism: “In our view, a meaningful and effective global campaign against (terrorism) requires consensus on the following principles: respect for the provisions of the Charter and the rules of international law, and non-transgression against the sovereignty of States; striking a balance between the counter terrorism measures taken by States and the principles of human rights and public freedoms and non-abuse of the state of emergency to justify the counter-terrorism measures; providing a clear and specific legal definition for ‘terrorism’ as well as for the concept of ‘terrorist groups’, which would not allow any justification for the commission of terrorist acts. By the same token, such definitions should not compromise the rights envisioned in the Charter and the international humanitarian law, such as the right to self-determination. In the same vein, combating global terrorism ought not be a tool for discrimination against the followers of any creed or a cover for assault against their religious beliefs. Finally, the ‘no justification for terror’ policy should not translate into disregarding its underlying reasons. Rather, an effective battle against terrorism would require global cooperation in addressing its root causes and the genesis of this plague.

“Furthermore, the campaign against terrorism should bolster the efforts to fight the most serious crimes of concern to the international community, namely, aggression, genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.”

Kazakhstan
H.E. Mr. Kassymzhomart K. Tokaev, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 24, 2004

CTBT: “We call for an early entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test Ban Treaty and urge the governments of those states that have not yet ratified that instrument to display political will and genuine commitment to nuclear disarmament.”

Confidence Building: “Kazakhstan’s initiative regarding the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building in Asia, (CICA) already a fact of international life, is an effective tool designed to strengthen confidence and security in Asia.”

CD: “We believe that the negotiation process within the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva should be reactivated. In our view, the potential of that important forum is far from being tapped to the fullest extent.”

Multilateralism: “Kazakhstan calls for the establishment of a Council of Regional Organizations, under the Secretary-General of the United Nations. Close attention should be paid to the proposal to establish an Economic and Social Security Council. We believe that these proposals reflect the need to strengthen global multilateral cooperation.”

NPT: “As one of the few states that have voluntarily gave up their nuclear weapons, Kazakhstan is concerned by the current status of the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. That important treaty has been seriously eroded because of destructive actions on the part of a number of known states. We should recognize that the nonproliferation regime faces a formidable threat and that there is a real possibility of an uncontrolled spread of weapons of mass destruction and most importantly, of terrorists getting hold of them.”

NWFZ: “…we consider that the establishment of a nuclear weapons free zone in Central Asia is a very important and timely proposal.”

Security: “The central issue of international security is turning the United Nations into an effective tool designed to strengthen regional and global security systems and the regime of nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction and to manage globalization processes.”

SALW: “The Government of Kazakhstan attaches great importance to the consistent implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons, as discussed at a regional conference in Almaty in March of 2004.”

Terrorism: “For years, the international community has been ignoring the most burning problems of social and economic development and failed to address poverty, misery, illiteracy and various forms of discrimination. As a result, we are faced with an unprecedented threat of international terrorism, which undermines the pillars of the world economy and security. Nevertheless, we have not done yet anything meaningful in order to get a detailed analysis of the ideology behind international terrorism and its institutional base and sources of finances. In other words, the central nature of international terrorism remains a terra incognita for all of us; we are familiar only with its ugly manifestations.”

“It is encouraging that the reform of the Counter Terrorism Committee of the United Nations Security Council is gaining momentum. With the current escalation of international terrorism, the role of that Committee should become more important, otherwise global counter terrorism efforts to address new challenges and threats would not be as effective, against the wishes of the peoples of the world.”

Kenya
Hon. Amb. Chirau Ali Mwakwere, MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 27, 2004

Landmines: “The production, stockpiling, transfer and use of anti-personnel landmines is a problem of major proportions which has caused untold suffering to populations worldwide. With respect to this problem, Africa is the most mine-affected continent. Kenya has been bestowed with the honor to host the First Review Conference on the Convention on the…Ottawa Convention. The Conference, also known as the ‘Nairobi Summit 2004 on a Mine-Free World,’ will be held from November 29 to December 3, 2004.”

SALW: “Long running conflicts in our sub-region have led to the proliferation of small arms and light weapons which constitute major security concerns to my country and others. For this reason, Kenya has been at the forefront of regional initiatives to combat the menace. In March 2000, Kenya hosted the First Ministerial Conference, which produced the Nairobi Declaration on the problem of Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons in the Great Lakes Region and the Horn of Africa. In April this year, Kenya hosted the Second Ministerial Review Conference of the Nairobi Declaration, which adopted the Nairobi Protocol on SALW. These efforts are intended to consolidate a regional framework within which to deal with the problem of proliferation in order to improve security to enable the people of the region to redirect their energies and resources towards meaningful economic activities.”

Terrorism: “…Kenya fully supports international efforts in dealing with this problem. Collective efforts to address the issue must be through international cooperation, information and intelligence sharing, coordinated by the United Nations.”

Kiribati
H.E. Mr. Anote Tong, President of the Republic of
September 28, 2004

Nonproliferation and Disarmament: “The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and of illicit trade in small arms and light weapons continue to threaten international security. We must be unified in our approach to addressing these challenges effectively through the strengthening of multilateral disarmament and nonproliferation treaties and agreements and through closer regional international cooperation. Kiribati is supportive of all nonproliferation efforts and in this respect is party to, among others, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty and the Chemical Weapons Convention.”

Security: “The on-going conflict in Iraq and other parts of the world, the scourge of terrorism and the existence of nuclear arsenals, accelerated environmental degradation and the threat of global warming and sea-level rise, hunger and poverty, the HIV/AIDS pandemic and other non-communicable diseases, the marginalization of Least Developed Countries in the global economy and underdevelopment, continue to pose major challenges for our organization today.”

“The adverse impact of climate change and sea-level rise are critical security issues for the global community in this new millennium, and more so, for low-lying island states like Kiribati. The issue must take center stage along with other international security issues. We urge the international community to agree on a unified global response to better protect the environment, in the same way that the international community is being encouraged to respond to terrorism and other threats to global security… Our very existence as a state is at stake…”

“We have demonstrated remarkable solidarity in the fight against global terrorism. Can we not demonstrate the same in the fight against climate change and sea level rise?”

Terrorism: “We commend and support the work of the international community and efforts taken at the national, regional and international levels to respond to the challenges of terrorism, recognizing the need for international solidarity in addressing this increasing global threat.

“Kiribati is committed to the global fight against terrorism… Indeed, as a small island developing state we have little capacity to develop any effective counter measures and therefore especially vulnerable to terrorism.

“We acknowledge the importance of complying with UN Resolutions and international security arrangements that have been adopted in the fight against terrorism. While we cannot afford to be complacent in our efforts in this regard, it must be recognized that the compliance requirements for these resolutions and arrangements do pose enormous challenges for countries such as Kiribati… Having said that I wish to note that, with technical assistance from our development partners, we have made progress in enacting some important legislation relating to terrorism and transnational crime. We expect to make further progress on compliance with the counter terrorism requirements study.”

Lao People's Democratic Republic
H.E. Mr. Somsavat Lengsavad, Deputy Prime Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 27, 2004

Terrorism: “…the Lao PDR reaffirms its position to continue to cooperate with the international community based on the principles of the UN Charter, international law and relevant international Conventions.”

WMD: “Today, weapons of mass destruction, whether chemical, biological or nuclear, all pose major threats to peace and security, at the regional and global levels, and are far from being totally eliminated. Therefore, we should all work collectively to ensure that these inhumane weapons disappear from the face of the earth."

Latvia
H.E. Dr. Vaira Vike-Freiberga, President of
September 22, 2004

Terrorism: "Frequently countries facing terrorist attacks have been using vastly superior military capabilities to strike hard at real or perceived terrorist targets. Too often, however, these strikes have had an undesirable side-effect of their own: the further wounding and killing of civilians, and the additional destruction of property. Such strikes have done nothing to diminish the deep-seated feelings of resentment by disaffected populations. The events of the past few years, and indeed of the past few decades, point to the stark and sobering reality that the military option alone has not been effective in rooting out terrorism, and that terrorism has not been an effective means for achieving political aspirations."

Lebanon
H.E. Mr. Issam Fares, Deputy Prime Minister of
September 22, 2004

Terrorism: "... we stand today by the side of the United Nations in opposing international terrorism in all its forms. Lebanon had witnessed terrorism on its soil; it was a witness to innocents being kidnapped, tortured, and killed. It knows what terrorism is all about, and from knowledge first hand, it condemns it in strongest terms. We also condemn those who willfully mix between terrorism on the one hand and struggle for national liberation on the other.

"There are those who exploit the universal revulsion against terrorism to smear national liberation movements by branding these movements as terrorists. National liberation is legitimate, terrorism is reprehensible."

Lesotho
Rt. Hon. Pakalitha B. Mosisili, MP, Prime Minister of
September 23, 2004

Terrorism: "It is common knowledge that the root cause of the world's insecurity today is international terrorism and armed conflicts. Terrorist actions continue to haunt and shock us ..."

"(A) pragmatic solution may be found, we submit, in the answer to the question: 'what is it that drives an inherently good human being to commit such inhuman and senseless acts of state terrorism, organizational terrorism or individual terrorism'? In short, we must confront the causes of terrorism in all honesty and without malice to anybody."

Liberia
H.E. C. Gyude Bryant, Chairman of National Transitional Government of
September 22, 2004

DDR: "At the beginning of the United Nations Mission in October 2003, we estimated that some 38,000 combatants would have submitted themselves to the disarmament and demobilization program. Today, 73,600 fighters have been disarmed. Over 22,000 pieces of serviceable weapons of all kinds have been surrendered and decommissioned; and more than 5 million rounds of ammunition collected and destroyed by UNMIL.

"Meanwhile, the high number of combatants disarmed and demobilized has overwhelmed our capacity to rehabilitate and reintegrate them. The absence of social infrastructures exacerbates the situation. War-related damage to the national infrastructures and community facilities is extensive. Without exception, all communities have lost their capacity to accommodate and support even the slightest caseload of returnees."

Terrorism: "The threat posed by global terrorism combined with widespread poverty, especially in developing countries, constitute real barriers to the attainment of the Millenium Goal."

Liechtenstein
H.E. Dr. Ernst Walch, Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 24, 2004

no references to disarmament, security, terrorism etc.

Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
H.E. Mr. Abdurrahman Mohamed Shalghem, Secretary of the General People’s Committee for Foreign Liaison and International Cooperation
September 29, 2004

Security: "Col. Muammar Ghaddafi presented a proposal to world leaders which they all approve. This proposal calls for the establishment of a Committee of Wise Men whose membership would consist of Presidents Nelson Mandela, Mikhail Gorbachev and Bill Clinton to serve as authority to resolve conflicts in our world. The United Nations should pass a resolution in support of this proposal."

Terrorism: “All of us must continue combating terrorism. If we want to eliminate terrorism, we must eliminate its causes and not simply pursue its operations.

WMD: “As the 60th Session of the General Assembly draws closer, Libya is presenting a unique, bold and strong initiative involving the elimination of its programs of weapons of mass destruction, chemical and nuclear weapons, and handing over of such equipment to the International Atomic Energy Agency.”

Lithuania
H.E. Mr. Valdas Adamkus, President of
September 22, 2004

Security: "As the nature of threats before us is changing and new responses are needed, it is high time to agree on future policies and principles. Today we need to build a shared understanding of the nature of modern threats to international peace and security. Much depends on the ability of the United Nations- that is, on us- to reach a new consensus on collective security. Our strength lies in our resolve to deal collectively with major challenges to peace, security, and sustainable development."

"Without peace there is no development. Without development there is no peace. This recognized linkage of security and development should be better reflected on our global agenda."

WMD: "International community is vulnerable to the dangers posed by the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, international organized crime, the spread of highly dangerous diseases such as HIV/AIDS, or environmental degredation. Our common efforts against these and other threats must be universal, consistent, systematic and unwavering."

Macedonia
H.E. Mr. Branko Crvenkovski, President of
September 24, 2004

Landmines: “We expect from the first Review Conference of the member countries of the Ottawa Convention that will be held in Nairobi, to see a summary of results related to the implementation of this extremely important instrument that will pave the way to the creation of a world free of landmines. The Republic of Macedonia destroyed the mine stockpiles and is working on the demining of affected regions. UNMAS together with ITF helped a lot in these demining activities.”

Proliferation: “The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction remains one of the major threats pending over global peace and security and is closely related to terrorism. We welcome the adoption of resolution 1540 on the Non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction by the UN Security Council, whose implementation supplements the existing complex set of instruments and consolidates the role of the Security Council in this area.”

SALW: “The suppression of illicit trade in small arms and light weapons and full prohibition of anti-infantry mines is also a very important issue, due to the size of the problem and the number of victims they cause. Such activities will immensely contribute to conflict prevention and successful peace keeping and peace building throughout the world, including our region. At the end of last year the Republic of Macedonia conducted a successful action of collecting small arms and light weapons. The action was supported by the UNDP and the activities in this field are on-going.”

Terrorism: “In order to enhance the capacity of the international community (to deal with terrorism), we need a further consolidation of the global anti-terrorist coalition led by the UN and additionally strengthen the cooperation with the regional organizations which have specific mechanisms to fight this global evil.

“The Republic of Macedonia will pursue its active cooperation with the Counter Terrorism Committee of the Security Council and give its own contribution to the implementation of the Security Council resolution 1373.

“In this respect, I would like to inform that last May the Republic of Macedonia ratified the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism and the International Convention for the suppression of terrorist bombing."

Malawi
H.E. Dr. Bingu Wa Mutharika, President of
September 22, 2004

Security: "One can hardly emphasize enough that without global peace, there cannot be global prosperity. In this regard, I am pleased to note that international peace and security has always remained high on the agenda of this August Assembly."

Malaysia
H.E. Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Prime Minister of Malaysia
September 27, 2004

Multilateralism: “I strongly believe that multilateralism is the only way to implement resolutions and decisions concerning global peace and security. Adherence to the Charter of the United Nations should be a solemn obligation, not a matter of choice.”

“A sincere commitment to multilateralism on the part of the big powers will send a strong signal to all nations, large and small, that the purposes and principles of the United Nations shall form the basis of the conduct of relations between nations… Of course, multilateralism can only be sustained if it embraces all nations as important stake-holders and excludes none.”

Peaceful (sic) Uses: “We also note with great concern the increasing tendencies to link the fight against terrorism with the campaign against proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Developing countries suffer as a result of restrictions imposed on access to peaceful uses of technology, equipment and material necessary for their economic development. Malaysia is fully and firmly committed to the cause of nonproliferation. But there must be multilateral negotiations for universal, comprehensive and non-discriminatory agreements and arrangements. Above all, nothing should be done at the expense of resources needed for the international development agenda.”

Terrorism: “Malaysia is convinced that the fight against terrorism cannot succeed through the force of arms alone. To win it, we need to exert genuine efforts and demonstrate good faith to address the root causes of terrorism, one of the most obvious of which is the unaccomplished missions of peoples struggling for independence and aspiring for sovereign states of their own. To find answers, we must promote genuine dialogue and rid ourselves of the prejudices and bigotry triggered by September 11, which were further aggravated by subsequent events that followed September 11…

“The United Nations can facilitate the convening of a special international conference to consider this question in all its aspects, including the root causes of terrorism and the issue of state-sponsored terrorism.”

Maldives
H.E. Mr. Fathulla Jameel, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 30, 2004

Disarmament: “The disappointing impasse on global disarmament and the dreadful odds of further proliferation of weapons of mass destruction make the world ill at ease, and lose hope for a peaceful world.”

Security: “We, in the small states, feel more vulnerable to these challenges and threats, as our security is entirely dependent on the prevalence of global security and the observance of the rule of law by all states. Clearly the concerns of small states cannot only be confined to the issues of environment, climate change, sea level rise and sustainable development. The ominous threats that are emerging on the political and security fronts of the contemporary world have far reaching implications on us as well.”

Terrorism: “Not too infrequently we witness small states victimized by non-state actors such as terrorists, mercenaries, insurrectionary gangs and organized crime networks, whose measured assaults disrupt socio-economic and political development of small states, endangering peace and security. It would be imprudent to relegate the wider implications of the presence and activities of such perilous actors on international peace and security. Solutions to them could only be sought through international cooperation, vigilance and action.”

“My government believes that early adoption of the proposed international convention on terrorism would be a crucial step in effectively combating this dreadful menace.”

Malta
Hon. Dr. Lawrence Gonzi, Prime Minister of
September 23, 2004

Terrorism: "The fight against terrorism involves all of us and needs to be pursued with firmness and tenacity... As the Secretary-General takes every opportunity to remind us, this struggle must not take place at the expense of the fundamental freedoms and the basic dignity of individuals. Neither must we allow the legitimate concern to eradicate terrorism in all its aspects to distract the commitment of the global community in its endeavor towards the economic and social development of the less advantaged regions of the world."

Treaty verification: "The continuing commitment to the major multilateral treaties and increased efforts to intensify measures of verification and compliance are of paramount importance in this regard. Equally important is the need to bring the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty into force without further delay."

WMD: "Problems relating to the development of weapons of mass destruction still exist in other regions of the world. The role which initiatives encouraging regional stability and economic and social development can play in the resolution of these problems should not be underestimated.

"It is also necessary to look at the problems raised by the threat of new weapons of mass destruction as part of the wider issue of disarmament in its many aspects.

WMD and Terrorism: "The problem of proliferation of weapons, especially weapons of mass destruction, has in our day assumed a new and frightening dimension in its possible linkage with terrorism. In this regard, as the Secretary General points out, the effective implementation of Security Council Resolution 1540 adopted earlier this year should complement ongoing efforts to strengthen existing multilateral and non-proliferation regimes."

Marshall Islands
H.E. Mr. Kessai H. Note, President of
September 22, 2004

Disarmament and nonproliferation: "On broader issues of disarmament and nonproliferation, we urge the international community to retain a focus on disarmament by the nuclear weapon States, as well as non-proliferation measures. We look forward to next year's Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and we hope that the Conference will produce substantial progress on the Thirteen Steps towards complete nuclear disarmament."

Nuclear testing: "An ongoing issue of the utmost concern for the people of the Marshall Islands is that of nuclear weapons testing. Between 1946 and 1958, the United States conducted a series of nuclear tests in the Marshall Islands, which included the detonation of 23 atomic and hydrogen bombs. On March 1st this year, we commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Bravo test at Bikini Atoll. The Bravo blast was 1,000 times more powerful than Hiroshima, and its fallout spread radioactive debris across the neighboring islands.

"Today, many of our people continue to suffer from long term health effects, while others remain displaced from their homes because of ongoing contamination. We urge the United States government to fully address the issue of adequate compensation for populations affected by the nuclear testing program, and to fulfill its responsibilities for thesafe resettlement of displaced populations."

Terrorism: "International terrorism is obviously one of the biggest challenges facing the global community today. The reality is that no State or region is immune. All States must take action at the national level as well as cooperating at the regional and international levels to ensure that we combat terrorist threats with comprehensive and unified action."

Mauritius
Hon. Jaya Krishna Cuttaree, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade and Regional Cooperation of the Republic of
September 28, 2004

Disarmament: “Notwithstanding the potential threat posed by nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction, it is a matter of serious concern that we still have not been able to find common ground to initiate a process leading to complete disarmament.”

“Mauritius support and implements fully the international disarmament treaties such as the Chemical Weapons Convention, the Biological Toxin Weapons Convention and has always supported various UN resolutions which tend to consolidate these regimes, including Resolution 1540 which focuses on non-proliferation issues.”

NPT: “Significant differences still persist among Parties to the Non-Proliferation Treaty. We once again appeal to all Member States to translate their stated commitments to the cause of disarmament into action.”

Security: “The African Union has amply demonstrated that it means business in addressing the issue of conflicts on the continent and any assistance it gets from the international community can only help it achieve its goals. But let me hasten to say that the African Union’s involvement in these peace processes should not distract the UN Security Council from its primary responsibility to maintain peace and security in Africa. Indeed, the Security Council should not allow itself to be perceived as being selective in its approach with regard to conflicts in various parts of the world.”

SALW: “Along with our fight against weapons of mass destruction, we should also stay the course against the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons which have been the weapons of choice in recent conflicts, particularly in Africa.”

Terrorism: “We should reflect on the effectiveness of the international response against terrorism. It is becoming increasingly evident that the war against international terrorism cannot be won by military might alone. Several reports of this august Assembly have already amply demonstrated that woes such as poverty, social inequality, unemployment and illiteracy constitute breeding grounds for terrorism. Genuine international cooperation is needed to comprehensively address the root causes of terrorism.”

Mexico
H.E. Dr. Luis Ernesto Derbez, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004

Multilateralism: “In light of the scope of the challenge of the reform that we have ahead, Mexico would favor calling for a general conference with the aim of updating and strengthening our Organization… The changes that have taken place in the world in that period demand a comprehensive exercise that should encompass the renewal of our commitments, and the review of the structure and the performance of the collective security and development system.”

“… as an unequivocal sign of our interest, our concerns and our commitment, Mexico decisively promotes the renovation of the multilateral system, through the Group of Friends at the United Nations Reform.”

Terrorism and WMD: “… we should recognize that the UN has already taken some actions as first steps in the right direction. This has been done particularly in the fight against terrorism and the nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction. It will be necessary to take these actions further.

“In this context, Mexico is ready to continue working with the institutional structures of the Organization, particularly the Counter Terrorism Committee and the newly established Committee on nonproliferation. We will continue to promote the protection of Human Rights and fundamental freedoms in the fight against terrorism, as the only way to guarantee the legitimacy and efficacy of that fight. We will also follow closely the cooperation initiatives and regimes that are geared to control the supply of nuclear materials; and we will insist in gathering new momentum on the efforts in the urgent cause of disarmament.”

Micronesia
Hon. Sebastian L. Anefal, Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs
September 29, 2004

Nuclear testing: “As neighbors and fellow islanders, we have saddened by the inability of the people of the Republic of Marshall Islands, after almost fifty years, to secure full compensation for the death, sickness and destruction suffered by them as a consequence of nuclear weapons testing. Recently declassified documents make it clear that original settlements were not based on the full story of what happened to the Marshallese people and other peoples of the former Trust Territory as well. We join other Members in calling upon the United States to meet its responsibility in full.”

Terrorism: “…a common concern that amidst all the current attention to global security issues the nations of the Pacific Islands are being left largely to our own devices to deal with threats related to organized crime and terrorism. We are working hard to address our vulnerabilities in these regards, but I would like simply to note that the rest of the world, especially the North, is not serving its own best interests by giving short shrift to the possibilities for criminal and terrorist exploitation that are presented by our vast region. Over and above other traditional ODA, we need a range of targeted assistance in our area.”

“Even if we summon up the will to act collectively to put down the darker side of human nature through collective action, we must work much harder and on a global scale to move toward eliminating the conditions that provide fertile ground in which the sponsors of terrorism and genocide are able to prosper. These include conditions of poverty, hunger, and inadequate access to clean water, sanitation, health care and education.”

Republic of Moldova
H.E. Mr. Andrei Stratan, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004

Arms and transparency: “This region remains an area of illegal production and trafficking of arms. Given the ‘transparency’ of the Transnistrian section of the Moldovan-Ukrainian border there are no guarantees that the illegally produced or trafficked armaments will not reach in the future other conflicts zones.”

Security: “Over the years, the Republic of Moldova has systematically informed relevant international organizations on the danger the persistency of the political conflict in its eastern region poses to regional and international peace and security.”

“We are determined to make full use of the opportunities provided by the recent EU enlargement to promote stability, security and well-being.”

Terrorism: “The Republic of Moldova fully supports the current efforts oriented towards conclusion of a Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism as well as of a Comprehensive International Convention on International Terrorism.”

“We cannot expect realistically to win the war against international terrorism as long as the regional and internal conflicts remain unsolved and their root causes are not properly
addressed.”

“Recently terrorism has been increasingly merging with separatism.”

WMD: “There is also the risk that non-State actors might one day acquire weapons of mass destruction, a threat explicitly recognized by the Security Council when it adopted the resolution 1540.”

“The United Nations must be capable of responding effectively to these and other challenges, such as the eradication of poverty, the promotion of sustainable development, the protection of environment, the respect of human rights, the control of epidemics and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. We need an efficient and relevant organization, able to deal with the modern threats.”

Monaco
H.E. Prince Albert, Hereditary Prince of
September 23, 2004

Multilateralism: "The attachment to democracy and to the rule of law, the complete trust we place in the values of multilateralism, and the respect of our differences allow us to move forward to with harmony and constantly adapt our Organization in the face of the challenges of our time. We must give our Organization the means to better respond to the expectations of the Peoples of our world."

Terrorism: "Unfortunately, terrorism has now become a day-to-day reality... Our determination to combat it must remain without breach. We therefore welcome the creation of an Executive Direction of the Committee against Terrorism."

"Monaco has become a Party to all twelve Conventions that curtail international terrorism and taken appropriate actions in its domestic laws."

Mongolia
H.E. Mr. R. Altangerel, State Secretary for Foreign Affairs of
September 27, 2004

CTBT: “(The CTBT), once in force, would greatly contribute to the prevention of horizontal and vertical proliferation of nuclear weapons, and the dangers posed by their possible acquisition by non-state actors.”

Disarmament: “Indeed, strengthening international peace and security, supporting practical disarmament measures in every possible way has been one of the main priorities of Mongolia’s foreign policy. We firmly believe that disarmament efforts should equally focus on state-and-people-centered dimensions.”

Landmines and SALW: “The global landmine ban campaign and efforts to curb illicit trade in small arms and light weapons have immediate bearing on human security, social and economic development around the world.”

Nonproliferation: “Mongolia welcomes the UNSC resolution 1540 (2004) adopted unanimously under Chapter VII of the UN Charter as a meaningful step toward curbing the WMD proliferation, yet we also believe that a correspondingly significant step out to be made in nuclear disarmament- the early entry into force and universalization of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty as a first priority.”

NPT: “As a strong advocate of WMD disarmament, and particularly nuclear disarmament, Mongolia believes that the full and effective implementation of the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons on the part of both the nuclear and non-nuclear countries has a pivotal role in promoting international peace and nuclear security.”

NWFZ: “The Korean nuclear crisis and the resulting tensions on the Korean peninsula cast dark clouds over the entire Northeast Asia. Being a Northeast Asian nation with a nuclear-weapon-free status, Mongolia stands for a nuclear-weapon-free Korean Peninsula, and sees it as an important condition leading to the reconciliation of both Koreas, therefore, to peace and stability in the region.”

“Establishment of new and consolidation of existing nuclear-weapon-free-zones should remain high on the international agenda. My Government will continue its efforts towards institutionalizing its nuclear-weapon-free-status at the international level. Mongolia’s internationally recognized and legally-binding nuclear-weapon-free status could further contribute towards ensuring peace and stability in the region of Northeast Asia and beyond.”

Terrorism: “Mongolia supports the efforts of the CTC aimed at its revitalization, and is looking forward to seeing the Counter Terrorism Executive Directorate in operation. We also attach importance to speedy finalization of drafting international conventions on terrorism and nuclear terrorism.

“No matter how pressing is the fight against terror, it should not overshadow other issues that impact daily lives of millions of people- from extreme poverty and hunger to environmental degradation and HIV/AIDS, to health and schooling.”

Morocco
H.M. Mohammed VI, King of
September 21, 2004

Multilateralism: "To meet the challenges at this turning point in history, the international community has no alternative but to revitalize the current multilateral system...

"...I am convinced the United Nations Organization, which has helped solve countless crises, is perfectly capable of managing the current international situation, in a peaceful and civilized way, by revitalizing the multilateral system. Such an objective, however, can only be achieved if... its working methods and its organs- including the Security Council- are reformed and invigorated."

Mozambique
H.E. Mr. Joaquim Alberto Chissano, President of
September 21, 2004

DDR: "The issue of disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) is of crucial importance, or if left unattended or incomplete can constitute a source of instability, as we have witnessed in some peacekeeping operations."

Multilateralism: "The success of the on-going reforms should be measured against an effective improvement of the global governance and strengthening of multilateralism, with the General Assembly assuming a central role in the conduct of global issues.

"A strong United Nations should stand on the pillars of real multilateralism, where each country can have a say on global issues. Failure to cater to the interests and aspirations of the majority of its member states will only result in the marginalization of the UN."

Myanmar
H.E. U Tin Winn, Minister, Office of the Prime Minister and Chairman of the Delegation of the Union of
September 29, 2004

Terrorism: “Myanmar is doing its utmost to combat this menace at the national, regional and international levels. It was among the first countries to submit a report to the United Nations Counter Terrorism Committee, pursuant to Security Council resolution 1373 and has since submitted its third report. It has signed and acceded to eleven of the twelve international legal instruments related to the suppression of terrorism. It is also actively involved in the Bali Process to combat transnational crime, including international terrorism.”

Namibia
H.E. Mr. Sam Nujoma
September 22, 2004

Arms Expenditures: “We must insist, in this process of dialogue, on a realistic balance between the total world spending on war and weapons technology, on the one hand, and the implementation of the Millennium Development Goals and Targets, on the other.”

Security: “Mercenaries are amassing arms and launching military offensives against
legitimate governments to support companies who scramble for oil, gas, diamonds and other world's precious resources.”

“The global security situation has also been worsened by the emergence of mercenaries and private armies which have now become the world's biggest political challenge.”

“We must stop the looming catastrophe and suffering. Instead, we must promote human security and prosperity for all.”

Proliferation: “Regrettably, there is widespread distrust and the danger of nuclear proliferation makes the situation even more alarming for everybody.”

Terrorism: “Whether fighting poverty, HIV/AIDS or terrorism, the international community must act as one.”

Nauru
H.E. Mr. Vinci Niel Clodumar, Chairman of the Delegation
September 29, 2004

Security: “Issues such as climate change, peace and security, economic and social development of its peoples and the protection of and sustainable use of the environment and the natural resources are still the priority of the (Pacific Islands) Forum.”

“…the intervention by the Pacific Islands Forum is seen as pre-empting the possibility of the economic crisis escalating into a security and safety issue for the Nauruan people and the region.”

NPT: “To conclude, Mr. President, the 59th session has critical work ahead of it such as the International Meeting for the 10 year review of the Barbados Plan of Action, the tabling of and deliberation on the finding of the High Level Panel constituted by the Secretary General, the review of the Nuclear Non- Proliferation Treaty, the preparations for the 5 year review of the Millennium Declarations and its Goals, and the continuation of our deliberations on the revitalization of the General Assembly and of the reform of the Security Council just to name a few.”

Terrorism: “Armed conflicts and acts of terrorism continue to perpetrate the violation of human rights and humanitarian norms. Atrocious acts of terrorism against innocent civilians particularly women and children continue to puncture the fabric of civility and moral values that each and every society on this planet is founded on.”

Multilateralism: “Mr. President we congratulate the Secretary General for his continued commitment to multilateralism as means of resolving our common problems and for the report on the work of the Organization (N5911) for the past 12 months. However, it is discouraging to note that peacekeeping activities had increased rather than decreased.”

“Nauru continues to believe that multilateralism is the key to resolving contemporary problems in all of their Statement at the General Debate of the 59th UNGA Republic of Nauru complexities.”

“The next 12 months will determine if we the United Nations of the world continued
on the road where "business as usual" is the mode of operation or followed the road of multilateralism as the principle rule of our engagement The statements so far indicate the latter, but we have heard this before!”

Nepal
H.E. Mr. Prakash Sharan Mahat, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004

CD: “It is sad that the Conference on Disarmament has no program of work for the last several years. The body must be allowed to work on a coherent strategy leading to the complete elimination of nuclear weapons in a time bound manner.”

Disarmament: “It is our firm belief that the international community should look beyond the immediate conflicts and seek to build a strong foundation for durable peace by pursuing disarmament, development and the rule of law.”

“Regional centers for peace and disarmament are instrumental in building confidence among nations. Nepal is eager to relocate to Kathmandu the Regional Center for Peace and Disarmament for Asia and the Pacific at the earliest. We are prepared to sign the necessary agreements consistent with the prevailing diplomatic practices and provisions of the other two regional Centers.”

“Nepal is deeply concerned by the set back in the disarmament realm. Of course, the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is very important to keep such weapons from rouge elements, no durable peace will be possible without concerted efforts to disarmament, particularly of nuclear weapons, as they are the greatest threat to human civilization.”

NWFZ, including outer space: “We reiterate our support to nuclear weapons free zones and keeping the outer space free of such weapons.”

Security: “Indeed, the United Nations embodies the shared dream and hope of the entire humanity for peace, security and development. Nepal has abiding faith in the principles and objectives enshrined in the United Nations Charter.”

“International peace and security will continue to elude us until we address the root causes of conflicts: namely, poverty, ignorance, disease, exclusion and injustice.”

“…the Government has the obligation to protect the lives of people and to safeguard private property and public infrastructure, by strengthening security.”

SALW: “The international community should also work together to strengthen controls over the small arms and light weapons to prevent their abuse by non-state actors.”

Terrorism: “Internal conflicts have proliferated and populations have been displaced; international terrorism has increased;

“…and injustice have persisted and even worsened for the majority of humanity; and transnational crimes have spread their wings.”

“Terrorism has become a global menace casting a dark shadow over the lives of millions of peoples around the globe.”

Weapons: “Deadly weapons pose a constant threat to the safety of human beings and the existence of human civilization.”

Netherlands
H.E. Dr. Bernard Bot, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 21, 2004

Missiles: "With others, the EU will also explore the possibility of establishing a relationship between the United Nations and the Hague Code of Conduct on Ballistic Missile Proliferation."

Proliferation of WMD: "One of the greatest threats to international peace and security today is the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery. The international community must effectively address this challenge.

"...International treaty regimes and export control arrangements are in place to prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems. These instruments, however, have not succeeded in putting a complete stop to proliferation. Additional measures are necessary, in particular to combat the risk of terrorist organizations gaining access to those weapons and delivery systems. In this context, the EU welcomes the adoption of Security Council Resolution 1540, which is fully in line with the EU strategy."

Terrorism: "Terrorism is another threat that can be dealt with only by effective multilateralism and close international cooperation."

New Zealand
H.E. Mr. Phil Goff, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of
September 2004

Disarmament (Small Arms): “In the Solomon Islands, the intervention of the Regional Assistance Mission has restored the rule of law by its elected government in place of the anarchy created by armed militias. Over 3,500 weapons have been collected and destroyed, social services and a credible budgetary progress restored and militiamen and corrupt elements from police and government arrested."

Security: “While the High Level Panel will focus on reform of the UN and security considerations, development goals to create a fairer world and promote economic and social progress in the developing world are further vital considerations for the UN in the year ahead.”

“For hundreds of millions of people starvation, disease, and poverty are more immediate threats than the concerns others of us have about terrorism and security.”

“The United Nations must also adapt itself to the changing nature of security and humanitarian concerns. The concept that national sovereignty is paramount and
stands in the way of international intervention in local conflicts cannot be sustained.”

WMD: “Weapons of mass destruction have accumulated and access to them spread to more countries.”

Terrorism: “However attempts to suppress terrorism by force will not by themselves be enough unless we also address the causes which drive people to support, finance or be recruited into terrorism.”

“In that regard, no action will be more important to the undermining of terrorism today than finding a just and sustainable solution to the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian people.”

Nicaragua
H.E. Enrique Bolaños Geyer, President of
September 22, 2004

Nigeria
H.E. Mr. Olusegun Obasanjo, President of
September 23, 2004

Security: “Our quest for global peace and security will prove unsuccessful unless we intensify international cooperation for development and the reduction of poverty.”

SALW: “While the United Nations is justifiably seized with the issue of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD), such as nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, the question of Small Arms and light Weapons (SALW) can no longer be ignored.”

“While the threat of Weapons of Mass Destruction is awesome, small arms and light weapons are killing people every day at a rate cumulatively amounting to monumental destruction.”

“Nigeria and the African Union welcome the commencement of negotiations for an international legally binding instrument to enable States identify and trace illicit small arms and light weapons globally.”

Transparency: “To demonstrate our commitment to the principle of good governance, transparency and the rule of law, 23 African countries have already subscribed to the Peer Review Mechanism.”

Norway
H.E. Mr. Jan Pertersen, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004

Security: “The UN needs to take earlier and more co-ordinated action as threats to peace and security emerge.”

“The Summit in 2005 should also focus on international efforts to promote peace-building, reconciliation, global security and respect for human rights. We must take decisive steps during the next General Assembly to meet development targets and create a safer and more peaceful world.”

Terrorism: “Terrorism is not a new threat. But the scale and brutality of recent terrorist operations have altered our lives and our thinking and have forced us to take new measures to protect ourselves against this threat. Terrorism can strike anywhere and any time, but it strikes harder and more often in developing countries. Terrorism is a threat to our security; it creates fear and want, and severely hampers economic and social development. No cause, however legitimate, can justify acts of terrorism.”

Oman
H.E. Mr Yousef bin Alawi bin Abdullah, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 27, 2004

Disarmament treaties: “the Sultanate of Oman has signed most conventions on disarmament and arms control, including the Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT), the Convention on the prohibition of chemical weapons, and the Convention on the prohibition of biological weapons.”

“The Sultanate believes that accession by States to disarmament treaties and conventions would enhance and maintain international peace and security.”

Terrorism: “The convening of an international conference to consider these terrorist phenomena is a good idea since the results of the work of such a conference could be an important tool that would help defeat terrorism.”

WMD: “The world stock of weapons of mass destruction and in particular nuclear weapons runs the risk of destroying human life on our planet many times over.”

Pakistan
General Pervez Musharraf, President of
September 22, 2004

Confidence Building: “After several aborted attempts, Pakistan and India have been able to initiate Confidence Building Measures (CBMs)and a composite dialogue this year to address all outstanding issues.”

Disarmament and Multilateralism: “Today, there is welcome resurgence of support for multilateralism. This must be a multilateralism based on the principles of the UN Charter, a cooperative and democratic multilateralism. It must seek just, peaceful and durable solutions to conflicts and disputes. It must promote a programme for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.”

Proliferation: “The growing asymmetries in power among States, discrimination in the dispensation of international justice, repression of peoples' legitimate aspirations, and growing socio-economic disparities, have precipitated ‘new threats’ to international peace and security: The threat of terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and imploding States.”

Terrorism: “Terrorism poses the most urgent threat to many countries, including the most powerful States. For many of us, the terrorist threat is close and personal. Terrorism threatens Pakistan's vital national interests and objectives.”

“The global cooperation against Terrorism has been highly successful. Determined and collective action has contained and disrupted the violent agendas of the terrorists.”

“I had proposed the two pronged strategy of Enlightened Moderation to overcome terrorism and prevent a clash of civilizations.”

Palau
H.E. Mrs. Sandra Pierantozzi, Vice-President and Minister of Health of the Republic of Palau
September 23, 2004

Security: “We agree with His Excellency, the Secretary- General, who observed in his opening remarks to the UN Meeting of the Commission on Sustainable Development that 'high-level political attention has been diverted from sustainable development by the recent emphasis given to terrorism, weapons of mass destruction and the war in Iraq.'"

Terrorism: “But Palau also understands that the scourge of global terrorism and its immoral violence against innocents must be defeated.”

“Coalition forces in Iraq paid the ultimate price, marking the first death of a Palauan in the struggle with global terrorism.”

Palestine
H.E. Mr. Farouk Kaddoumi, Chairman of the Observer Delegation
September 28, 2004

Nuclear weapons: “Israel is the only nuclear power in the Middle East. It is about the fourth strongest army in the world, is a war sophisticated arms developer and dealer with no ethical or moral constraints and with no human rights concerns. The Israeli government can therefore do anything it wants, acting like a high tech military-expert rogue state which has become tremendously useful for the United States since it has located itself strategically right in the centre of the global arms industry.”

Terrorism: “Acts of state-terrorism was Israel's response to the performance- based Roadmap. And to be more precise the 2000 pound bomb was dropped after the Palestinians have scrupulously observed an unannounced cease-fire.”

Papua New Guinea
H.E. The Right Honourable Sir Rabbie Namaliu, MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004

Security: “We continue to be concerned about the security and vulnerability of many of our small island states.”

“Papua New Guinea concurs with the UN Secretary-General, Mr. Kofi Annan's recent statement to this august Assembly that highlighted the importance of the rule of law to prevail if we are to achieve peace and security in our world.”

SALW: “Small arms and light weapons will always threaten the stability of many small states. Therefore we look forward to the continuing work for a UN supported Action Plan for dealing with small arms.”

Terrorism: “The world continues to witness great leaps in technology but at the same time we also have seen some of the global dilemmas such as poverty and hunger, the ravages of HIV/AIDS, wars, conflicts and terrorism, amongst others.”

“Like many other member states, Papua New Guinea has acceded to the various counter terrorism treaties pursuant to UN Security Council Resolution '1373.”

“We believe that there is every desire to fulfill treaty obligations but if some of the more onerous tasks can be lightened for the small countries through regional reports, bodies like the Counter Terrorism Committee, the Security Council, General Assembly and other related Agencies could be better served.”

“Like many other members states, we take our responsibilities and obligations seriously to fight the scourge of international terrorism and related issues including the trafficking of people.”

Paraguay
H.E. Mr. Nicanor Duarte Frutos, President of
September 22, 2004

no references to disarmament, terrorism, weapons, etc.

Peru
H.E. Mr. Alejandro Toledo, President of
September 22, 2004

Arms control: "Region-wide, Peru has also promoted initiatives for peace, security and weapon control. Moreover, my government proposed the Commitment of Lima, one of the most advanced documents on security and disarmament in the region. In this document, Andean countries committed to implement measures to promote trust; to establish standardized methods for measuring their expenses on external defense; to eliminate anti-personnel landmines; to control the proliferation of small arms and to prohibit, within the region, the production, utilization and commercialization of mass-destruction weapons, including those biological and chemical."

Multilateralism: "Let us all strengthen multilateralism. That is, international democracy."

Nuclear dangers: "The present situation takes place in a crisis of multilateralism, in a context where no isolated power can assure global governance, in a world where fragmentation enables nuclear threats."

Terrorism: "Non-state actors, such as terrorist organizations and traffickers of drugs, weapons and people are emerging, acquiring a devastating global power."

Philippines
H.E. Mr. Alberto Romulo, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 27, 2004

Proliferation: “Terrorism, the spread of weapons of mass destruction and the massive proliferation of small arms, directly threaten the people, their livelihood and are assaults on their dignity.”

Security: “Economic crisis in developing countries bring immediate threats to human security. When people do not know when their next meal will come from or when their crops fail, human security is compromised.”

“The inexorable pace of globalization fuels new phenomena and drives new challenges to human security.”

“…the interdependence and inter-linkages among the peoples of the world require that human security should top the agendas of local, national, regional and global governance.”

Terrorism: “We must allow our peoples to live free from fear, to live in a safe and secure world. Terrorism not only poses a serious threat to the lives of our people, but also to the values and ideals that define their society. Terrorism reduces people to mere pawns in a ruthless game of competing beliefs and ideologies.”

“The Philippines believes that conflicts should be addressed before terrorism can begin to define or exploit the conflict. This can be done by working together with other nations.”

Poland
H.E. Mr. Wlodzimierz Cimoszewicz, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004

Proliferation and WMD: “The predictable threats caused in the past by the wars between countries have been replaced by indefinite and unpredictable threats caused by international terrorism, proliferation of WMD, and an increasing number of states in distress, whose governments are unable to exercise effective power over their territory and population.”

“One of the most important issues, in the light of the particularly threatening nexus of terrorism and weapons of mass destruction, is the principle of the non-use of force.”

Portugal
H.E. Pedro Santana Lopes
September 22, 2004-09-23

Terrorism: “Portugal believes that it is up to the United Nations to contribute also decisively to the establishment of a global strategy against terrorism. A strategy that takes into account not only the obvious security-related responses, but also other elements that may have the potential to generate violence.”

“No cause, no idea, justifies acts of pure barbarism and the spilling of innocent's blood. Terrorism is an enemy of humankind.”

“Let us be unyielding in the fight against terrorism. But let us also engage ourselves in doing it collectively.”

WMD: “Our collective security also implies an effective international control of the production of nuclear, chemical and bacteriological weapons, and the means to deploy them.”

Qatar
H.E. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani
September 21, 2004

International Peace and Security: “The difficult challenge facing the international community today, in the view of theGroup of 77 and China, is that of maintaining international peace and security while achieving economic welfare and development.”

“The history of international relations over the second half of the last century has shown that it is almost impossible to maintain peace and security as long as the minimum standards of a basic livelihood are lacking. Poverty and destitution have often resulted in tensions that have eventually led to breaches of international peace and security. It is no coincidence that the poorest regions in the world are the ones that have suffered the most complicated regional conflicts.”

NWFZ: “We stress the need to transform the Middle East into a zone free of weapons of mass destruction, without any exception, in order to achieve the security and peace that would serve the interest and welfare of all its peoples.”

Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade
September 24, 2004

Energy and Non-proliferation: “Renewing and reaffirming our commitment to nuclear non proliferation peaceful use of nuclear energy, the government of the Republic of Korea pronounced Four Principles for the Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy" on 18 September 2004.”

“Given such a solid commitment on our part, my government reported the recent discoveries about the past scientific experiments involving nuclear materials in my country pursuant to the Additional Protocol to the Safeguards Agreement with IAEA. The experiments were isolated, laboratory-scale research activities that a few scientists conducted on their own for purely experimental purposes.”

“First, the Republic of Korea reaffirms that it has no intention of developing or possessing nuclear weapons; Second, the Republic of Korea will firmly maintain nuclear transparency, and will strengthen our cooperation with the international community to this end;

“…on the basis of international trust and with the highest level of transparency, the Republic of Korea will continue to expand the peaceful use of nuclear energy.”

Missiles: “…we will also host the Plenary Meeting of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) in Seoul next month.”

Nonproliferation: “The Republic of Korea has actively participated in the efforts of the international community in the non-proliferation field.”

“The Republic of Korea firmly believes that the expeditious resolution of the North Korean nuclear issue is in the best interests of all the participating parties to the Six-Party Talks, including the DPRK. The resolution of this issue will certainly have a positive impact on the global nuclear non-proliferation regime.”

“Upon the resolution of the nuclear issue, North Korea would indeed be able to become a MI-fledged member of the international community, enabling it to gain all the accompanying benefits.”

“While seeking a peaceful resolution of the North Korean nuclear issue, the Korean Government is working hard to ensure the steady improvement of inter-Korean relations.”

NPT: “The Republic of Korea firmly believes that the expeditious resolution of the North Korean nuclear issue is in the best interests of all the participating parties to the Six-Party Talks, including the DPRK. The resolution of this issue will certainly have a positive impact on the global nuclear non-proliferation regime.”

Non-proliferation and Terrorism: “Terrorism lends renewed urgency to our common endeavors to halt the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery. In particular, the revelations about a nuclear black market network in Asia this year have awakened the international community to the danger of nuclear weapons falling into terrorist hands. Faced with this new kind of threat to nuclear nonproliferation, the international community must work to close the loopholes in the existing nonproliferation regime. Against this backdrop, my government strongly supports Resolution 1540 on Non-Proliferation adopted by the Security Council in April of this year.”

“Terrorism lends renewed urgency to our common endeavors to halt the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery.”

Terrorism: “The fight against terrorism calls for unity in the international community with the
United Nations at the lead, as well as enhanced abilities in each individual member state to combat terrorism”

Transparency: “…my government will host next year in Seoul the "Sixth Global Forum on Reinventing Government" in cooperation with the United Nations.

“…this Forum will serve as a useful venue for the exchange of experience in government innovations aimed at enhancing participation and transparency in governance.”

WMD: “In June, we joined the ‘G-8 Global Partnership Against Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction’ in order to support joint forces to stem the spread of deadly arsenals.”

Romania
H.E. MR. Ion Iliescu
September 22, 2004

Proliferation: “My country is definitely for a concerted action against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.”

Transparency: “Romania fully supports the reform of the Security Council, both from the perspective of improving the working methods and the transparency, and from the perspective of expanding and adjusting the decision-making mechanisms.”

Russian Federation
H.E., Mr. Sergey Lavrov, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 23, 2004

Nonproliferation: “Our country became one of the sponsors of Security Council Resolution 1540, takes part in the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) and co-sponsors the G8 Action Plan on Non-Proliferation.”

“These initiatives are complementary and should increase the effectiveness of the WMD non-proliferation regimes, which seems to be especially relevant on the eve of the 2005 NPT Review Conference.”

Outer space: “It also includes maintaining environmental security, and I would therefore like to confirm that in accordance with the decision of President Vladimir V. Putin we are seriously considering the ratification of the Kyoto Protocol. And one of our tasks is to prevent outer space from becoming the scene of an armed confrontation.

“…a need is arising to elaborate a U.N. convention on international outer space law.”

Security: “The global nature of the terrorist threat testifies that security in today's world is indivisible. Consequently, we must bear collective responsibility for making the world secure.”

“The Commonwealth of Independent States Summit that was held recently in
Astana confirmed a high potential of regional structures within the CIS in every area, from anti-terrorist activities and collective security to reinforcing economic integration.”

“The U.N. should equally give close attention to other global threats to security and sustainable development.”

“On Russia's initiative, the U.N. General Assembly at its 57th and 58th sessions adopted resolutions on the elaboration under the U.N. aegis of a global strategy to counter new challenges and threats. They contained specific guidelines for bringing the international community closer to a new security model that would reflect the nature of global challenges of the 21st century.”

“The world community goes through a difficult period of establishing a new system of international relations…unsolved problems and new dangerous challenges to the security and development of mankind are growing in number.”

Terrorism: “I am also addressing you in a moment of truth, when nobody can raise any doubt as to the true nature of international terrorism and the challenge it has posed to the world community.”

“We must enter a crucially new stage in the activities of the anti-terrorist coalition. The meeting of the U.N. Security Council of September 1 demonstrated a strong determination of the world community to continue its fight against terrorism in a consistent way.”

“The fight against terrorism should unite States rather than oppose them to each other.”

“This framework has been laid down in Resolution 1373 of the Security Council and its subsequent decisions. However, additional efforts are needed at this point. They include making necessary amendments to the national legislation, acceding to international anti-terrorist conventions and finalizing new international legal counter-terrorism instruments.”

“In the circumstances, when international terrorism launched war on our entire civilization, a particular focus is placed on the determination of States to use their right for self-defense in conformity with Article 51 of the U.N. Charter.”

“International law is clearly not an inalterable dogma. The fight against terrorism calls for its development and improvement.”

“Russia believes that the United Nations should continue to play a central role in uniting efforts of the international community in its fight against terrorism.”

WMD: “The atrocity of the recent terrorist attacks proves the need to ensure reliable safeguards against terrorists gaining access to the weapons of mass destruction. Russia is prepared to the closest international partnership in this area.”

Saint Kitts and Nevis
H.E. The Honourable Timothy Harris, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Education
September 28, 2004

Terrorism: “Mr. President, pragmatic and productive partnerships are the most effective vehicle available to the international community to tackle effectively the multitude of problems we face. We speak of important issues such as democracy, globalization, terrorism, poverty eradication, human development and the spread of infectious disease as if they are completely disconnected.”

“We have already seen how acts of terrorism perpetuated against one state can have a worse effect economically on other states.”

Saint Lucia
H.E. The Honourable Julian Robert Hunte, OBE, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004

Security: “Instead of a world of peace, security and economic and social progress, in which human rights, fundamental freedoms and international law are fully respected, today our world is buffeted by poverty, hunger, the spread of endemic disease, including HIV/AIDS, conflicts, war, terrorism and other grave problems.”

Terrorism: “The complex and uncertain threat of terrorists and terrorism constitutes a critical factor contributing to the rising tide of violence, death and destruction.”

“Even with our best efforts, it is not always possible to know where or when terrorists will strike again. Neither can we say with any certainty that current efforts against terrorism have made the world a less dangerous place.”

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
H.E. The Honourable Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of
September 24, 2004

Terrorism: “Since September 11th, 2001, the fight against international terrorism has intensified on all fronts. It is right and proper that rich and poor countries be engaged in this on-going war on the barbarism of terror.”

“St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a reliable partner in this global struggle against the evil of terrorism.”

“This august body must, however, be reminded yet again that there is another terrorism which we must fight relentlessly. It is the terrorism of war, poverty, illiteracy and disease, including HIV/AIDS.”

WMD: “We must never forget, either, that daily hunger for one billion persons worldwide is truly a weapon of mass destruction. Together we must fight this terrorism also.”

Samoa
H.E. The Honourable Tuila’epa Sailele Malielegaoi, Prime Minister of
September 24, 2004

Small arms: “As current chair, I wish to inform the Assembly that the Pacific leaders again noted the dangers to the world of terrorism and to the Pacific region in particular of transnational crime, illicit drugs and the spread of assault small arms weapons.”

Security: “Many innocent lives continue to be wasted with people killed or maimed and multitudes displaced by heinous acts designed to undermine and destabilize the collective efforts of the international community, to achieve peace and security for our societies.”

NWFZ: “An issue that the Pacific Islands have brought to the attention of the United Nations over the years and remains relevant, not only for the Pacific, but very importantly, in advancing the cause of nuclear non-proliferation, is the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty.”

Terrorism: “Samoa condemns in the strongest terms all acts of terrorism and will continue to take actions and contribute our support to the campaign against it.”

“Besides terrorism, other scourges to world peace and the stability of our nations persist.”

“Clearly, our small nations are trying hard to contribute to security and peace initiatives of the United Nations. However, the national obligations including reporting for the various conventions and UN resolutions on security and terrorism place an onerous burden on the infrastructure and administrative capacity of small states.”

“The campaign against terrorism can still be successful but not merely by force of arms. Preventing safe haven for terrorists and closing off their sources of finances, are just as crucial.”

“…the Pacific Islands Forum has strengthened cooperation in counterterrorism measures as well as emphasized national efforts and regional cooperation in combating transnational organized crime and in building border control capacities.”

WMD: “The threat of weapons of mass destruction, poverty and hunger, environmental degradation, trafficking and smuggling of human beings, HIV/AIDs, malaria and tuberculosis are becoming perennial major threats to global security.”

San Marino
H.E. Mr. Fabio Berardi, Minister for Foreign and Political Affairs
September 28, 2004

Disarmament: “To continue to serve the international community, the UN should be given more effective tools to enhance mediation and peaceful settlement of disputes, preventive control, verification, planning and sanctioning, in order to prevent the outburst of warfare and promote disarmament and arms control.”

Terrorism: “In line with relevant international standards, San Marino has recently passed a special Law to combat terrorism and associated crimes. It also actively cooperates with the two UN Committees on anti-terrorism, established by Security Council Resolutions 1267 and 1373.”

“San Marino once again condemns any form of terrorism, the most serious and impending threat to peace which can be neither explainable nor justified,

“…so as to disseminate a more and more shared culture of peace and cooperation and reject violence and oppression.”

Sao Tome and Principe
H.E. Mr. Fradique Bandeira Melo De Menezes, President of
September 24, 2004

Security: “More than ever before, the governments have to give a universal forum like wise the responsibility to rebuild international order based on peace, respect of human rights, security and cooperation for development.”

Nonproliferation: “The world is a less secure place today than it was just a year ago. The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction continues and nonproliferation treaties notwithstanding.”

Terrorism: “Intolerance, terrorism, occupation, discrimination, organized crime, social injustice to say the least is some sources of open conflicts today.”

“Terrorism across the globe is destroying, destabilizing governments killing people like in Madrid, Middle East and else where.”

Verification: “All countries must open all installations for International Agency for Atomic Energy for all out inspections and all weapons of mass destruction must be eradicate from our planet.”

Weapons: “My country regrets that international relations in some parts of the world have deteriorated to the point where extreme violence is the daily events, …where human rights are daily violated and the environment has saturated with use and abuse of dangerous weapons.”

Saudi Arabia
His Royal Highness Prince Saud Al-Faisal, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 27, 2004

Security: “The Arab initiative continues to stand as a credible basis for the security and stability for all the peoples of the region because it ensures a lasting, just and comprehensive solution to the question of Palestine as well as the Arab- Israeli conflict in general.”

“Peace will be achieved and security will prevail only when the United Nations resolutions are implemented, the provisions of international law are respected and applied, and the principles of justice and equality are observed.”

Terrorism: “Today, we are in dire need of mobilizing all possible efforts to increase international cooperation to combat international terrorism, confront those who instigate and finance it.”

Transparency: “…the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia supports the call for reforms to secure broader membership of the Security Council in such a way as to improve geographical representation, promote transparency in its operation, avoid the application of double standards, and ensure the adoption of measures to enhance the credibility of its work…”

Verification: “we call upon the international community to adopt an even-handed approach, refrain from applying double standards, assume its legal and moral responsibilities, and urge the Israeli Government to refrain from the development of its nuclear program, and subject its nuclear installations to the inspection and safeguards system of the International Atomic Energy Agency.”

WMD: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is closely monitoring the endeavors aimed at eliminating all forms of weapons of mass destruction from the Middle East and making it free from all such lethal weapons.”

Serbia and Montenegro
H.E. Mr. Vuk Draškovic, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 23, 2004

Terrorism: “The fight against global terrorism and all forms of this scourge, such as anti-Semitism, is our primary responsibility today.”

“In the fight against terrorism force is unavoidable, but prevention is what we need most. Politicians, religious leaders, members of international spiritual elites and the media
must continually emphasize that the killing of children and of the innocent are in fact crimes that the terrorists are perpetrating against their own religions and against their own nations and that God will neither forgive them or reward them with paradise.”

“As a consequence of terrorism and massive violations of basic human rights, almost 200,000 Serbs and other non-Albanians have been expelled from Kosovo and Metohija.”

Multilateralism: “Multilateralism is the means to prevent the catastrophe of the clash of faiths and civilizations. At the same time, terrorism must be condemned with equal resolve by all. There can be no ‘acceptable.’"

Sierra Leone
H.E. Mr. Momodu Koroma, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 29, 2004

DDR: “The Government of Sierra Leone and people know from experience that ceasefire, disarmament, demobilization and reintegration are essential components of peace.”

Security: “Just over three weeks ago, on the initiative of the Member States of the Non-Aligned Movement, this Assembly reaffirmed the central role of the United Nations in the maintenance of international peace and security and the promotion of international cooperation.”

“The United Nations was formed over fifty years ago, as a response to the peace and security needs of the era of its birth. Since then, the world has experienced, and continues to experience fundamental changes to which the United Nations should adapt.”

“We note in particular that over the next several months, the Security Council will review the residual functions against the capacity of the Sierra Leone armed forces and police to maintain security and stability effectively throughout the country.

“…We hope that the review will take into consideration the security situation in the sub-region.”

“Mr. President, new challenges are emerging and new threats are being hatched in various corners of our world with unprecedented frequency. However, we must not forget the old and existing challenges, the old and unresolved threats to human safety and security.”

Terrorism: “While deploring all acts of terrorism, it is important to recognize that poor countries, particularly those emerging from conflict, have weak capacity to fight terrorism. If global action is what is needed to fight terrorism, and my delegation believes this should be the case, efforts should be made to enhance the capacity of poor countries to play their own role in the battle.”

“My delegation believes that equal attention should also be paid to the root causes of armed conflict across states, including the senseless acts of international terrorism that are being perpetrated in many parts of the world.”

Singapore
H.E. Mr. George Yeo, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004

Multilateralism: “So many problems like global warming, epidemics and terrorism can only be overcome if we work together. So many opportunities made possible by new scientific discoveries can only be fully exploited if we combine our efforts.”

Security and Terrorism: “We meet in New York under conditions of high security. All over the world, governments, corporations and individuals are allocating vast amounts of resources to combat terrorism - for intelligence-gathering, surveillance, defensive and offensive measures.”

“The Beslan massacre last month and the Jakarta bombing two weeks ago remind us once again that this war against terrorism is a long struggle requiring the mobilisation of entire communities from the top all the way down to the grassroots.”

Slovakia
H.E. Ivan Gašparovic, President of
September 21, 2004

Disarmament: “Slovakia also backs the toughening of international treaties that relate to disarmament and prevention of spreading WMDs, including international control mechanisms.”

Security: “Convinced as we are that international peace, security, and development are closely linked, official development aid and cooperation with developing and transition countries is becoming an integral part of Slovakia's foreign policy.”

“Severe humanitarian crises also pose a threat to peace and security in the modern
world.”

Landmines: “A Slovak unit, which specializes in locating and destroying landmines, weapons, and ammunition, is currently engaged in a humanitarian mission there. In addition, Slovakia has stepped up its participation by joining a programme for training Iraqi police officers.”

Proliferation: “Another issue that calls for efficient international cooperation is the fight against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.”

Terrorism: “Terrorism poses a threat to everyone. No one can be neutral or indifferent.
It is necessary that we are resolute and we jointly mobilize our efforts in combating it.”

“The twelve UN anti-terrorism conventions and protocols are of utmost importance in the fight against terrorism, and the UN must continue to play a key role in bolstering legal instruments in this battle.

“…The Slovak Republic supports a prompt approval of a comprehensive convention against terrorism as a whole, along with a convention aimed at averting acts of nuclear terrorism.”

Slovenia
H.E. Dr. Janez Drnovsek, President of
September 21, 2004

Terrorism and WMD: "The common fight against international terrorism and its origins must remain one of the priority tasks of individual members and of the entire UN. This also applies to preventing the spread of weapons of mass destruction. The unanimous Security Council resolution is a welcome step toward effect cooperation in this area."

Solomon Islands
H.E. The Honourable Laurie Chan, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004

Security: “Sustainable management of resources is essential to guaranteeing the security of our future generation.”

Terrorism: “My delegation offers its deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones during these uncondonable incidents. Solomon Islands condemn in the strongest possible terms such acts of terror and fully support international efforts to combat this scourge.In this regard, I also wish to join others .in calling on the global community to support small states to build their national capacities toward ongoing efforts aimed at combating transnational crimes such as arms smuggling, drug trafficking, people smuggling, money laundering, and terrorism.”

Weapons: “The success of the Regional Assistance to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) in promptly stabilizing the country within a period of three months - collecting some 3,700 weapons without a shot being fired - presents a fine example of the significance of regional co-operation to resolve conflict situations.”

South Africa
H.E. Mr. Thabo Mbeki, President of
September 22, 2004

Terrorism: “Both the powerful and the disempowered will undoubtedly agree that terrorism and war represent a serious threat to all humanity.”

“Both the powerful and the disempowered agree and will agree that the international community must act together, successfully to confront these situations, and therefore the
threat and challenge of terrorism and war.”

“However, the powerful will also make the additional determination that terrorism and war constitute the central and principal threat and challenge that human civilisation faces.

“…they have no logical choice but to identify terrorism as the central and principal threat and challenge they face, and to which they must respond.”

Spain
H.E. Mr. José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, Prime Minister of
September 21, 2004

Security: “There will not be either security or stability in the world as long as the Middle East conflict continues to bleed. This conflict is the primary tumor for many sources of instability.”

“Peace and security will only spread over the world with the strength of international legality, with the strength of human rights, with the strength of democracy, of abidance
by the law.”

“World peace and security cannot be ensured without respect for legality. Therefore, Spain wishes to promote the effective functioning of the International Criminal Court.”

Terrorism: “Our conviction is that legality, and only legality, will allows us to prevail in the fight against terrorism.”

”…We can and must rationally analyze how it emerges, how it grows, so as to be able to fight it rationally.”

“From thirty years of terrorism we have learned that the risk of a terrorist victory rises sharply when, in order to fight terror, democracy betrays its fundamental nature, governments curtail civil liberties.

“…This is what our people have learned: that it is legality, democracy and political means and ways what makes us stronger and them weaker.”

Swaziland
Hon. Albert H.N. Shabangu, Deputy Prime Minister of,
September 23, 2004

Arms Expenditures: “Our united effort is also addressing the conflicts which continue to threaten peace, stability and security in the African continent. We realize that without these elements, our development goals will continue to elude us, especially because, apart from resources that are wasted on arms, our people can only be productive and be able to trade amongst themselves and with the rest of the world under conditions of peace, stability and security.”

CTBT/NPT: “The Treaty on the Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty are designed as an essential first step towards a world free from the danger that such weapons pose.”

Disarmament: “Our failure so far as an organization is due to inability to agree a time frame suitable to all members for arms control and nuclear disarmament.”

“The Kingdom of Swaziland therefore calls upon the Conference on Disarmament to implement the proposal of the Non-Aligned Movement by establishing, as its highest priority, an Ad Hoc Committee to begin negotiations on a programme for the complete elimination of nuclear weapons, from those countries which have them within a time-bound framework.”

Proliferation: “We clearly need to find a way to strengthen the non-proliferation regime and to prevent the flow of conventional weapons and anti-personnel landmines into the zones of conflicts including terrorists.”

“Future global stability is also threatened by the continuing spread of weapons of mass destruction.”

Terrorism: “The parliament of the Kingdom of Swaziland will be debating and hopefully pass the long awaited Anti-terrorism Bill in the next session.”

“As part of our support for the alliance against terrorism, the government of Swaziland is currently studying all UN Conventions that deal with terrorism to ensure not only adaptation of, but also compliance with such important conventions.”

“The Kingdom of Swaziland continues to condemn, in no uncertain terms, terrorism, which constantly threatens world peace, security and stability.”

Sweden
H.E. Mr. Göran Persson
September 21, 2004

Disarmament: “The need for strong policies in disarmament and non-proliferation is acute. The nuclear weapon states must show real progress towards disarmament.”

WMD: “Still, weapons of mass destruction constitute one of the main threats to international peace and security. The threat of terrorism in connection with proliferation of such weapons is real.”

“International law should guide us in all our collective efforts – to attain freedom from weapons of mass destruction and terrorism, sustainable development and the respect for human rights.”

Security: “Four years ago, the resolution 1325 on women, peace and security was passed. It was a groundbreaking achievement. But now we need to do more to translate the common objectives into concrete improvements for women around the world.”

Transparency: “Other decisive areas are good governance and transparency.”

Switzerland
H.E. M. Joseph Deiss
September 21, 2004

Terrorism: “Switzerland's accession to the UN took place at a time when the fight against terrorism dominated international discussion, and the divergences in opinion on how to proceed against Iraq were widening.”

Syrian Arab Republic
H.E. Mr. Farouk Al-Shara', Deputy Prime Minister
September 27, 2004

NPT: “We joined the NPT and concluded a comprehensive safeguards regime agreement with the IAEA.”

NWFZ: “Syria was among the first countries of region to call for declaring the ME a region a zone free from all weapons of mass destruction, primarily nuclear weapons. We have seriously worked for the attainment of this objective.”

“…the draft resolution we submitted on behalf of the Arab Group to the SC on 29 December 2003. The draft called for the establishment of zone free from all weapons of mass destruction in the ME region, foremost among them nuclear weapons, in the context of a collective international monitoring regime, and under the supervision of the UN which will complement the role of multilateral international conventions regulating disarmament questions.”

Terrorism: “International terrorism is a real cause for concern for us all.
Together we should work to eradicate this dangerous phenomenon by addressing its real root causes.”

“It is on this ground that Syria condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.”

“During its tenure in the SC, Syria strived to support the efforts of the international community in combating international terrorism.”

Thailand
H.E. Mr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 27, 2004

Multilateralism and security: “We cherish multilateralism as the best means to secure peace around the world. We cherish multilateralism as the best means to develop prosperity around the world. But above all, we cherish multilateralism as the best means to achieve both security and development of the world.”

“Security is in charge of our policy and implementation. Internationally, we are active in the Human Security Network and other international arena where human security issues are at paramount.”

“Present-day realities – the emergence of building blocks, the inextricable linkage between development and security, and the need to develop human and state security on parallel tracks – clearly reflect how much the world has changed since 1945.”

Terrorism: “As civilized societies, we must come together to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, wherever it may occur. Terrorism is a direct threat to state security, but it also undermines human security.”

“Terrorism is a direct threat to state security, but it also undermines human security.”

Timor-Leste
H.E. Dr. José Ramos-Horta, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 29, 2004

Arms Expenditures: “Weapons-producing countries are flooding the world with all types of arms that fuel conflicts.”

“But we in Timor-Leste believe that developing countries must do more to end corruption and mismanagement, reduce arms and defence expenditure, spend more on education, health and poverty eradication.”

“There must be a strict code of conduct on weapons exports aimed at reducing the flow of conventional weapons to poor countries and regions in conflict.”

Chemical and biological weapons: “Allow me to address some issues that are of concern to us. In the past 20 years or so, our world has been the stage for several major conflicts; namely, the invasion of Iran by Saddam Hussein in the 80s which resulted in the death of over a million people Chemical and biological weapons were unleashed on both civilians and combatants.”

Security: “We are grateful to Australia, the UK and Malaysia for their generous support in enhancing the operational competence of our security forces.”

“The Atlantic partnership is the single most important pillar of the world's security and economic well-being.”

Nuclear violence: “The US fought a senseless and ugly war in Indochina, and the USSR wreaked its own version of Vietnam in Afghanistan. And the threat of nuclear violence was much greater then, than it is today.”

“The abrupt collapse of the USSR and the end of the Cold War in 1990 ushered in a new era; a more promising New World Order free from nuclear threats and proxy wars sponsored by the two superpowers.”

Terrorism: “We believe that Islamic extremism as the basis for the current wave of international terrorism is a passing phenomenon. Like other extremist groups before them, namely the European terrorist groups of the 60s, they have no popular support and will be defeated by use of a multi-pronged strategy.”

Tonga
H.E. The Honourable Sonatane Tu'a Taumoepeau-Tupou, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004

Security: “To be sure, Tonga is not seeking greater market access but desires security for its trade, under a rule based multilateral trading system.”

Terrorism: “Wanton acts of terrorism continue to test our fortitude as members of the international community. We must remain collectively resolute in our resolve to prevent and vigorously combat the proponents of this evil.”

“We continue to strongly support the work of the Counter Terrorism Committee (CTC) and applaud the recent revitalization of the CTC and its work.”

Trinidad and Tobago
H.E. The Honourable Patrick Manning, Prime Minister of
September 24, 2004

Security: “The catastrophic events of the present hurricane season bring into sharper focus yet another dimension of the vulnerability of Caribbean countries.

“…a whole new set of security issues have now arisen in the Caribbean as a result of these developments and the International Community might wish to take note.”

Terrorism: “Trinidad and Tobago condemns all forms and manifestations of terrorism, wherever and by whomsoever committed.”

“We are already a party to the principal international legal instruments against terrorism, and parliamentary action will shortly be taken by the Government to enact legislation enabling us to honour obligations regarding the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism.”

Transparency: “This approach, together with adherence to integrity and transparency in public affairs and equality of opportunity for all, has been essential to the continued peace, stability and progress we enjoy as we propose to make Trinidad and Tobago a beacon of integrity in the world.”

Tunisia
H.E. Mr. Habib Ben Yahia, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004

Security: “Tunisia is convinced that international relations can prosper and develop only in a climate of dialogue, entente and solidarity, …so that security, peace and stability prevail in the world, and so that humanity can look to the future with a maximum of confidence, optimism and ambition.”

Terrorism: “The increasing danger of the phenomenon of terrorism in our times requires further optimizing international coordination in order to stand against this scourge and ward off its dangers, by treating its root causes, finding just solutions to a number of pending international problems, and curbing the phenomena of poverty, exclusion and marginalization in the world."

Turkey
H.E. Mr. Abdullah Gül, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 23, 2004

NWFZ: “The creation of Nuclear Weapon Free Zones is an important way of strengthening peace and security in the world and in all regions, including the Middle East.”

Proliferation: “Universal humanitarian challenges and chronic political-military conflicts are compounded with new and asymmetrical threats: Threats such as .terrorism, narcotics, organized crime, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and environmental problems.”

Security: "Turkey is determined to sustain the promising and constructive atmosphere in our relations with Greece. We hope that the improvement in bilateral relations will continue in the coming period. Our wide ranging cooperation is expanding in every field. This will facilitate the settlement of all pending issues. It will also result in a climate of cooperation beneficial to the two countries as well as peace, stability and security in the region as whole.”

WMD: “We also strongly believe in the urgent need to strengthen the control regimes on weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems.”

Turkmenistan
H.E. Mr. Rashid Meredov, Deputy Prime Minister of
September 27, 2004

Security: “It should be noted that one of the priority areas of our cooperation with the United Nations is the area of maintenance of international peace and security, prevention of confrontation and conflict resolution by political means and methods.”

“It is especially relevant if one to understand that the security conditions of the world
community are formulated by the real contribution of every nation to the strengthening of its internal stability on par with cooperation at a collective level.”

“Prospects of the world and security on the global level would be determined in many respects on how multilateral dialogue on problems of this region would be constructed.”

Terrorism: “After the events of September 11, 2001 Turkmenistan was one of the first countries to support the United Nations initiative on building international coalition to fight terrorism and has become its active participant.”

“In this context Turkmenistan not only decisively denounces any acts of terrorism in any part of the world but also undertakes specific legislative and practical measures aimed at fighting this evil and preventing it from spreading.”

“In this connection Turkmenistan stands for effective implementation of complex system of measures to fight terrorism including active cooperation of states in searching and bringing to responsibility organizers and perpetrators of terrorist acts.”

“To counteract international terrorism, defend rights and freedoms of our own citizens we
have to be able to foresee each its manifestation and oppose it not only with our unanimous condemnation but also with high professionalism of law enforcement agencies as well as active use of all international legal instruments created within the UN framework.”

Tuvalu
H.E. The Honourable Maatia Toafa, Acting Prime Minister
September 24, 2004

Security: “Tuvalu is privileged and proud to be in this most indispensable body, the UN… at the same time, however, we are constantly reminded of our responsibilities to every Tuvaluan who everyday worries about his future economic, cultural, environmental and long term security and survival on our small, isolated and extremely vulnerable islands.”

“With a height of a mere three meters above sea level, our livelihoods and sources of food security are already affected badly, with increased salinity in ground water, land erosion, coral bleaching and total anxiety.”

“As we mark the tenth anniversary of the UNFCCC, and as we begin to look into future actions against climate change and sea level rise, we appeal for more attention from the United Nations, whose existence is for world peace and security, and for stronger leadership by the international community against this global threat.”

Terrorism: “Tuvalu is fully committed to joining the fight against international terrorism as required by Security Council resolutions. But we would need to seek the assistance of the UN and the international community to help us fulfill the requirements, particularly on reporting, of these resolutions and of the international anti-terrorism conventions.”

“Terrorist acts, including the unfortunate seizure of a school in Russia, have proven the continued existence of forces bent on undermining the United Nations founding goals of freedom, peace and security.”

Uganda
H.E. Tom Butime, Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004

DDR: “A robust MONUC force would be critical for the enforcement of UNSC Resolution 1493 (2003) on the arms embargo against militias, as well as the disarmament, demobilisation, rehabilitation, resettlement and re-integration (DDRRR) of all armed rebel groups and militias operating on the territory of the DRC.”

“We also wish to thank the friends of Somalia in particular, and the international community in general, for their generous support for the Somali peace process. We call upon them to continue the support not only for the peace process but also for the postconflict disarmament, demobilisation, rehabilitation, resettlement and re-integration (DDRRR) as well as development phases.”

Multilateralism: “I note with satisfaction that after a year in which the centrality of the United Nations in the maintenance of international peace and security had come under serious challenge, there seems to be a return to the more widely accepted multilateral approach to resolving global challenges.”

Terrorism: “Terrorism continues to be one of the biggest threats to international peace and security. Since September 11, 2001, thousands of innocent people, including women and children have been killed or maimed as a result of indiscriminate terrorist acts.”

“We must commit ourselves to implementation of UNSC Resolution 1373 and related anti-terrorism conventions to ensure that every country takes necessary measures against financing, harbouring or supporting terrorist organisations.”

WMD: “The need for the reform of the UN is imperative, if we want to enhance the role of the organization and the effectiveness of multilateralism to address emerging hard threats such as terrorism, WMD, and genocide as well as soft challenges such as persistent poverty and HIV/AIDS.”

Ukraine
H.E. Mr. Kostyantyn Gryshchenko, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 27, 2004

Disarmament and non-proliferation: “(The) Role of the UN in the field of non-proliferation and disarmament should be also strengthened.”

“We hope that this positive example will be followed by countries, which entertain ideas of protecting their security through the access to nuclear weapons.”

Nuclear Energy: “Ukraine has fulfilled its commitments related to the closure of Chornobyl nuclear power plant.”

NPT: “This year Ukraine will mark the 10th anniversary of its accession to the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). The landmark decision to eliminate the third largest nuclear arsenal and relinquish nuclear capability has significantly enhanced international non-proliferation regime and global security.”

Terrorism: “Creation of a new efficient system of information exchange on terrorism will help prevent new attacks and save priceless human lives.”

United Arab Emirates
H.E.Mr.Rashid Abdullah Al-Noaimi
September 22, 2004

Disarmament: “In this context, we look forward to effectuate the outcomes of the recent visit made by the Director of International Atomic Energy Agency to some countries in the region for the purpose of convincing their governments to give up the arsenals of nuclear weapons, which pose a threat to the neighboring countries.”

NPT: “In this connection, we renew our appeal to the international community to take all the necessary measures to compel the Israeli government to accede to the non-proliferation treaty, and to subject its nuclear facilities to international inspection supervised by the Agency in order to establish a zone free from weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East and Gulf region.”

NWFZ: “Achieving and maintaining security equilibrium in the Middle East and the Gulf region, has become an important priority, which requires development of a comprehensive and non selective policy for building confidence, which is capable of eliminating all existing arsenals of weapons of mass destruction in order to advance the international process of non-proliferation of these weapons.”

Terrorism: “The United Arab Emirates reiterates its condemnation to all acts of terrorism in the Gulf region, especially in the brotherly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and other areas
where a number of residential areas were subject to horrific terrorist attacks.”

Transparency: “Previous international experiences proved that regional and international multilateral initiatives, built on principals of partnership, justice, transparency and equality among peoples and countries, are capable of addressing these international challenges.”

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
H.E., Rt. Hon. Jack Straw, MP, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
September 23, 2004

Multilateralism: “I am proud that just a few months after the difficult times of early last year, France, Germany and the United Kingdom came together to work, as we continue to do, on the Iran dossier before the International Atomic Energy Agency.”

Security: “Let me highlight three areas which to me seem particularly important. First, our approach must be broader, tackling threats to the most vulnerable, such as poverty, disease and environmental degradation .Second, we must build a new consensus by expanding the scope of collective action. And third, we must deal with the threat of terrorism which menaces us all and everything for which we stand.”

Terrorism: “The threat of terrorism confronts democratic, properly-functioning states with an acute dilemma: to fight those who recognize none of the values for which we stand, while remaining true to those values.”

“Our commitments under international conventions express many of those values and the importance which we attach to them. But equally, those Conventions cannot be allowed to shelter those involved in terrorism.”

“But we cannot let terrorists exploit a protection designed for the persecuted, not the persecutors. We shall therefore be working closely with Russia on its important draft Security Council Resolution, to see how best we can prevent those who commit, support and finance terrorism from sheltering behind a refugee status to which they are not entitled, and to look at ways to ensure the speedier extradition of such individuals.”

Transparency: “We could also use the UN to agree, to monitor and to help to implement globally- accepted norms of good governance, helping to stop unstable states from failing and building the transparency and accountability which create the conditions for lasting security and prosperity.”

United Republic of Tanzania
H.E. Benjamin William Mkapa, President of
September 21, 2004

Security: "Members of the United Nations must uphold, in word and in deed, steadfastly, the ideals of its Charter for peace with justice, and for security with development for all.

"The first International Conference on the Great Lakes, which Tanzania will host in November 2004, will review aspects concerning peace and security, governance and democracy, economic development and regional integration, as well as humanitarian and social issues in the region. Ultimately, we hope to adopt a comprehensive security, stability and development pact for the Great Lakes region."

United States
H.E. Mr. George W. Bush, President of
September 21, 2004

Proliferation: "We are determined to prevent proliferation, and to enforce the demands of the world and my nation is grateful to the soldiers of many nations who have helped to deliver the Iraqi people from an outlaw dictator."

Security: "In this young century, our world needs a new definition of security.Our security is not merely found in spheres of influence, or some balance of power. The security of our world is found in the advancing rights of mankind.

"Today I have outlined a broad agenda to advance human dignity, and enhance the security of all of us. The defeat of terror ... the protection of human rights ... the spread of prosperity ... the advance of democracy ...these causes, these ideals, call us to great work in the world. Each of us alone can only do so much. Together we can accomplish so much more."

Weapons of mass destruction: "Every nation that wants peace will share the benefits of a freer world.And every nation that seeks peace has an obligation to help build that world. Eventually, there is no safe isolation from terror networks, or the failed states that shelter them, or outlaw regimes, or weapons of mass destruction .Eventually, there is no safety in looking away, seeking the quiet life by ignoring the struggles and oppression of others.."

Uruguay
H.E. Mr. Jorge Batlle Ibáñez, President of
September 23, 2004

Terrorism: “Our country has recently adopted legislation aimed at strengthening the system of prevention and control of money laundering and financing of terrorism.”

“The law also provides for improvements in the international cooperation mechanisms for combating money laundering and the financing of terrorism.”

Uzbekistan
H.E. Mr. Sodiq Safaecv, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 27, 2004

Security: “Uzbekistan holds that the regional agenda should be given a priority status in reviewing the urgent issues of global security. Only by means of secure and stable regions we can gradually move towards global security.”

NWFZ: “The establishing of a nuclear-weapons-free zone in Central Asia remains one of the priorities of our foreign policy.

“…We trust that the establishment of this NWFZ would become an important element of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime.”

Terrorism: “Uzbekistan strongly opposes any kind of allegations and assertions that link international terrorism with ever growing religion of Islam which has made an immense contribution in the history of humanity.”

“It is vital to fight the ideology of extremism and fanaticism, to outlaw militant radical religious groups that nurture international terrorism.”

“We need to admit that international terrorism, capable of quickly transforming and adapting to the changing circumstances of contemporary world, is trying to impose its conditions, keep whole regions in fright.”

“The region is encountering with a fusion of transnational threats, namely terrorism, extremism and drug trafficking. Similar patterns can be observed in other regions as well.”

Vanuatu
H.E. The Honourable Barak Sope Maautamate, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004

Security: “The world is expected to plunge into further turmoil unless the role of this only truly global body is reinvigorated to resume its legitimate responsibility in addressing the causes of conflict and maintaining peace and security.”

“While the fight against terrorism takes center stage, it must not overshadow the socio-economic development agenda and other serious security concerns affecting the developing world and in particular those of small island states.”

“I hope wisdom will prevail as the debate continues on our future destiny. Despite all our differences and diversities human security for all is our main goal, and this should remain the focus of the UN agenda.”

Terrorism: “The world is at the crossroads and we meet here at a critical juncture. Around us civil strife, wars, poverty, diseases, famine, drought, natural disasters, terrorism, environmental degradation, depletion of land and marine resources, etc are ravaging the world.”

“Resources will inevitably be diverted towards combating terrorism in all its facets but judicious decisions need to be taken.”

Venezuela
H.E. Mr. Jesús Arnaldo Pérez, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004

Arms: “Can we not hear the whispers of the poor, the disfranchised victims, and the desolate— above the profiteering arms industry? Why are we unable to stop this insanity? Can we afford to exempt ourselves from bearing this responsibility?”

Security: “A few days ago, President Lula of Brazil chaired a hugely successful meeting of world leaders on the theme of ‘Combating Hunger and Poverty.’ This wonderful initiative co-sponsored by Presidents Chirac, Lagos Rodriguez Zapatero, expressed our common vision to fight against global poverty and social injustice to guarantee the security and development of both North and South. To that end we recognize the need to go beyond the Official Development Aid fund.”

Viet Nam
H.E. Mr. Le Cong Phung, Deputy Foreign Minister
Septmeber 27, 2004

Terrorism: “At this august forum, we wish to reaffirm the position of the Vietnamese Government denouncing every act of terrorism. We urge the international community to further strengthen cooperation with a view to eliminating terrorism from our civilized world.”

“We have more than once stated our fundamental position that for it to enjoy broad support and participation and therefore be effective, the fight against terrorism must be pursued in conformity with the provisions of the UN Charter and must be free from selectivity and double standards.”

Yemen
H.E. Mr. Abubakr Al-Qirbi, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004

NWFZ and the NPT: “I wish to affirm my country's position of support to the United Nations efforts regarding arrangements for the convening of a disarmament conference which aims, inter alia, at the establishment of the Middle East region as a zone free of weapons of mass destruction. To this end, Israel must accede to the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty.”

Terrorism: “While the Government of Yemen is responsible for the safety and security of its citizens and the homeland, it remains faithful to its international commitments for combating terrorism.”

“Yemen's experience in combating terrorism has taught us that an effective battle against terrorism also requires deployment of all possible resources, including dialogue, enhancing development and justice in addition to good security and intelligence work.”

“…we welcome any partnership between Arab states, the European Union, the United States of America and the world at large that enhances our development, stability and fight against terrorism.”

“The tragic situation unfolding today in Iraq in the wake of bringing down the regime of Saddam Hussein has resulted in terrorism, violations and chaos all of us can see. This might take Iraq down a slope of sectoral and racial violence and conflict which in turn will threaten the unity and future of Iraq.”

Zambia
H.E. Mr. Levy Patrick Mwanawasa
September 21, 2004

Proliferation: “Zambia reaffirms its support for the United Nations' initiatives in the fight against global terrorism and the proliferation of small arms and any forms of weapons of mass destruction.”

Multilateralism: “It is essential that we take advantage of the immense problem-solving potential of multilateralism.”

Zimbabwe
H.E. R.G. Mugabe
September 22, 2004

Security: “We are seriously concerned that the United Nations, the pre-eminent instrument for the maintenance of international peace and security, watched helplessly while Iraq was plundered by the US and UK-led so-called coalition of the willing.”

Terrorism: “Mr. President, the fight against international terrorism has exposed the duplicity and insincerity of erstwhile leading democracies and human rights monitors with regard to the question of the observance of human rights.”

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