UNGA Disarmament Index 2008
This is an index of all references made to issues of disarmament, peace, and security, made in the 63rd General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly from 23–29 September 2008. 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.
Secretary-General
H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General
23 September 2008
North Korea's nuclear programme: “I note the progress in the 6-party talks on the Korean Peninsula and urge that all agreements be implemented. And I call again on Iran to comply with Security Council resolutions and cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency.”
Iran's nuclear programme: “I call again on Iran to comply with Security Council resolutions and cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency.”
Peace and security: “It is essential to act upon the principle that justice is a pillar of peace, security and development.”
Terrorism, disarmament, and non-proliferation: “We are well-aware of the many challenges to peace and security around the world. I am thinking of global terrorism, and the enduring importance of disarmament and nonproliferation.”
President of the General Assembly
H.E. Mr. Miguel d'Escoto Brockmann
23 September 2008
Disarmament and security: “However, if we look at the Organization’s progress in fulfilling the primary purposes for which it was founded, we must admit that in terms of eliminating war, achieving disarmament and ensuring international security, we have failed.”
Military spending: “More than half the world's people languish in hunger and poverty while at the same time more and more money is spent on weapons, wars, luxuries and totally superfluous and unnecessary things.”
Militarism and terrorism: “In addition to the problem of hunger, poverty and high food prices, there are many other problems whose human origin can no longer be doubted. These include ... the arms build-up, terrorism....”
Closing statement, 29 September 2008:
Multilateralism: “Call it compassion. Call it brotherhood and sisterhood. Call it stewardship. Call it solidarity. The idea is the same in all parts of the world. We owe it to each other. We owe it to Mother Earth, who is struggling to survive our abuses. We owe it to succeeding generations. Let us join forces to assure that we rise to these challenges together, setting aside our petty differences. We can, we must make a difference in the months ahead.”
Afghanistan
H.E. Mr. Hamid Karzai, President
24 September 2008
Terrorism: “Since the last time we gathered here in this great hall, we have passed a year of great hopes and grave fears; we have witnessed ... with disbelief the brutal, wholesale slaughter of innocent people at the hands of terrorists in Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Algeria and several other parts of the world.
“Since I spoke at this podium in the last general assembly, my country Afghanistan has grappled with a number of important challenges, none more troubling than the problem of international terrorism. Terrorist forces have significantly increased their attacks and brutality enjoyed freedom in their sanctuaries.
“While Afghanistan has borne the brunt of terrorist violence, the scourge has now spread like a wildfire across the wider region. In Pakistan, where until recently extremist circles remained mainly focused on destabilizing Afghanistan, today terrorist violence is also directed within the Pakistani territory and against the Pakistani people. Daily acts of intimidation and violence against communities in Afghanistan and Pakistan in particular on both sides of the Durand Line; killing of political tribal leaders and burning of schools are the upshots of the continued spawning and spread of terrorism and extremism in the region. The callous attack on the Marriot hotel in Islamabad over the weekend, the bombing of the Indian Embassy in Kabul, and the terrorist attacks in the Indian cities of Bangalore and Ahmedabad were the most disturbing demonstration of terrorists’ growing reach.
“Undoubtedly, terrorism will not go away until we dismantle the elaborate institutional support terrorists enjoy in the region and eliminate their secure sanctuaries. This will be possible if we engage in a sincere regional and international cooperation.”
Terrorism: “I assure my brothers, President Zardari and Prime Minister Gilani that Afghanistan stands ready to take several steps for each single step that Pakistan will take to address the challenge of radicalism and terrorism.
“To the extent that terrorism in our region continues to be a global threat, evolving in nature and tactics the struggle against it must continue unabated. “
Terrorism: “To this end, I call for redoubling of efforts by the international community aimed at enabling the Afghan national security institutions, both the Army and the Police, to take on a greater share of the war against terrorism and the protection of our people.”
Terrorism: “Whereas military endeavor at the regional and international levels remains a primary response to the threat of terrorism, success will only be possible if the local population is empowered to confront it. Therefore, while terrorism and a persistent environment of insecurity are at work to subvert Afghanistan’s economic growth, we must do what it takes to win the battle of Afghanistan’s economic development.”
African Group
H.E. Mr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, President of the United Republic of Tanzania
23 September 2008
No relevant references.
Albania
H.E. Mr. Bamir Topi, President
24 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Please allow me to confirm the commitment of Albania to a strong and coherent United Nations, capable to successfully tackle the new challenges, which we are actually facing. We fully support the joint initiatives and actions aimed at strengthening collective peace and security in order to reach the sustainable and long-term development, to promote human rights and international cooperation, dialogue and consensus.”
Multilateralism: “The causes of this crisis are numerous and complex and as such they demand a multi-level coherent and well coordinated response.”
Multilateralism: “Albania pays particular attention to the strengthening of multilateral regional relations.”
Terrorism and multilateralism: “The global fight against terrorism, especially through guaranteeing an effective response to this collective threat requires the United Nations to continue to play a very important role. Albania has very actively met its obligations and responsibilities in the global fight against terrorism in compliance to the United Nations General Assembly Strategy against Terrorism, which was unanimously passed on September 8th, 2006.”
Terrorism and multilateralism: “Challenges such as the fight against terrorism, organized crime, arms proliferation and border management have an interlinked character and can only be overcome through joint actions, initiatives and commitment. We will continue to the play same constructive role to our benefit and to that of the whole region.”
Peace and security: “Albania is working to enhance the domestic capacities to enable a greater presence aiding global peace and security by deepening the cooperation with the United Nations in the field of peacekeeping operations.”
Algeria
H.E. Mr. Mourad Medelci, Minister of Foreign Affairs for Algeria
27 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Angola
H.E. Mr. Joao Bernardo de Miranda, Minister of External Relations
26 September 2008
Terrorism, small arms and light weapons: “South-South cooperation, including triangular cooperation, have the potential to contribute towards the eradication of poverty through the establishment of partnerships for sustainable development, trade, investment, tourism, crime prevention, combating drug trafficking, illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, and transnational organize crime.”
Peace: “Armed conflicts continue to absorb resources from both the international community and the parties involved. These resources are better for the well being of the populations in affected territories. However, for the first time in many years, Africa is experiencing a significant reduction in conflict, allowing for an improvement of its economic indicators. The progress in the peace process in Cote d’Ivoire, as well as the consolidation of peace under way in Sierra Leone and in Liberia have brought about a new aura of hope.”
Antigua and Barbuda
H.E. The Honourable Winston Baldwin Spencer, Prime Minister, Chair of G77 and China group
25 September 2008
Peace, security, and multilateralism: “The Sixty-third Session of the General Assembly is taking place against a backdrop of escalating challenges to international peace and security; unalleviated poverty and diminishing food supplies for much of the world's population; mega disasters induced by climate change; and impending meltdown in the world's largest economy, These times and circumstances call for a heightened sense of urgency and a stronger will among all nations to work with and through the United Nations in embracing multilateralism in the fullest sense.”
Small arms and light weapons: “In similar context, Mr. President, vulnerable developing societies are victims to tihe globalisation of crime; notably in the havoc wrought by handguns in the possession of criminal elements; narco-trafficking targeted, essentially, to markets in developed countries; and the deportation of criminals to our shores.”
Multilateralism: “I firmly believe that the United Nations would be a more potent entity and the world could be an infinitely better place if the next President of the United States, in his inaugural address, gave an irrevocable commitment to multilateralism, in all its dimensions.”
Security and multilateralism: “The United Nations - and more broadly the international community - has spent much time and other resources over two decades identifying, defining and coming to common understanding on major challenges to the global society. We have passed resolutions and declarations in which we have defined the challenges, identified the resources needed and resolved and committed to meeting and overcoming the challenges as a global community through international cooperation, In some cases, we have agreed and set binding timeframes to achieve results. Many of these commitments, time tables and proposals for action have been repeated in annual resolutions of the General Assembly. Unfortunately, many have become more technically complicated and with less and less political commitment to unified and mutually reinforcing irnplementation action.”
Multilateralism: “Mr. President, we recognize that each country has the primary responsibility for its development. However, the international community must create a conducive, sustainable, fair and predictable environment and provide the necessary policy space to stimulate and facilitate the discharge of this responsibility. We must all move immediately into implementation mode - a mode where our focus is on how to do rather than how not to do. We have some important strategic opportunities ahead to begin to do so.”
Argentina
H.E. Ms. Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, President
23 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Armenia
H.E. Mr. Serzh Sargsyan, President
25 September 2008
War: “Nowadays the unsettling expression “Cold War’ has emerged again. I hold the view that the main task of this 63rd session should be a joint demand to unequivocally rule out this kind of developments. The memories of the previous “Cold War” are pretty much fresh, and its consequences are still there.”
Terrorism and multilateralism: “We continue to respond to the horizontal, netlike challenges of today such as terrorism, international crime, drug trafficking and others, through the institutions which are envisaged predominantly to smooth over the controversies among the states. Regional cooperation can become one of the essential means to address these new challenges.”
Military spending and militarism: “If any country increases its military budget and brags about it, if limitations on weapons stipulated by the international agreements are being violated and done so openly, if a country signed a cease-fire agreement, which constitutes an international responsibility, but on nay occasions threatens to resume military actions, it must receive a rapid and firm response.”
Australia
H.E. The Honourable Kevin Rudd, Prime Minister
25 September 2008
Terrorism and security: “The globalisation of security—arising from the searing impact of September 11 when the obscenity visited on this great city caused all of us to conclude that terrorism was the enemy of all civilised humanity, not just of some nations.”
Terrorism and multilateralism: “The United Nations, and we its member states, have a responsibility to protect the nations and the people of the world. We must protect people from terrorism. And this must include commitment to support those nations in the frontline of the struggle. Australia is working closely with the Government of Afghanistan and our global partners to bring security and stability to Afghanistan. We can never again allow that nation to become a haven for terrorists.”
WMD: “Australia is also an active contributor to global efforts to prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction.”
CTBT: “We continue to urge nations to sign and ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty so that it can enter into force.”
North Korea and Iran’s nuclear programmes: “We remain concerned that states such as Iran and North Korea continue to defy the international community and fail to comply with demands for a full declaration and accounting of their nuclear programs. Their actions are undermining the global consensus to contain the spread of nuclear weapons.”
Non-proliferation, disarmament, and nuclear weapons: “This year the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) celebrates its 40th anniversary. As a middle power and as a long-standing member of the NPT, Australia is committed to working with other nations towards the goal of the eventual abolition of nuclear weapons. Australia—with our close friend and partner Japan—has established an International Commission on Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament to create the political and policy consensus necessary to elicit real result on non-proliferation and disarmament in advance of the 2010 Review Conference.”
Multilateralism: “Our membership of the United Nations is a key pillar of our foreign policy. Our priorities are regional, but our interests are global. We work with partners around the world to meet shared challenges. Through our membership of the United Nations, we are committed to using creative middle power diplomacy to help overcome the great challenges of our age. Challenges which lie beyond the power of individual nation states to resolve. Challenges which can only be solved by unprecedented cooperation between states.”
Austria
H.E. Ms Ursula Plassnik Federal Minister for European and International Affairs
26 September 2008
WMD: “Armed conflicts, climate change, poverty, hunger, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction are the bleak challenges we face today...”
Multilateralism: “A sense of shared responsibility and true partnership based on equality are the key qualities that must guide us in our efforts to meet these challenges.”
Peace: “Nowadays, some speak about the “peace – justice dilemma”. I remain convinced that peace and justice are complementary objectives, both equally essential. There can be no lasting peace without justice, and international justice will serve its purpose most effectively if it helps societies advance reconciliation and overcome the wounds of the past.”
Small arms and light weapons: “With some 500,000 victims each year, small arms and light weapons (SALW) are today’s ‘real weapons of mass destruction’. Africa is the continent most heavily affected by this problem. Together with her African partners, Austria works for real progress on the destruction of small arms as well as on the fight against illicit arms trade. We also cooperate in developing suitable legal instruments.”
Cluster munitions: “Austria is also deeply involved in establishing an international legally binding ban on cluster munitions. The Convention on Cluster Munitions that we adopted in Dublin this May is a milestone in the field of disarmament and humanitarian law. Austria will sign the Convention in Oslo on 3 December 2008. I appeal to all other countries to sign as soon as possible so that this treaty can enter into force swiftly.”
Nuclear energy and nuclear fuel cycle: “The need to prevent nuclear proliferation at a time when an increasing number of countries are looking towards nuclear power as a means to produce energy calls for courageous and creative solutions. Austria has presented a proposal in the framework of the NPT and the IAEA which aims at the comprehensive multilateralisation of the nuclear fuel cycle. The goal is a fair system under which all States who wish to receive nuclear fuel for an exclusively peaceful usage can do so under equal conditions through the IAEA.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “With regard to the Iranian nuclear programme we are convinced that the double-track approach is the best way forward. At the same time, it is indispensable that Iran fully complies with the relevant Security Council resolutions. In this context we commend and strongly support the efforts of IAEA Director General ElBaradei.”
Peace and security: “Without peace and security there can be no sustainable development and there is no security without human security. Human trafficking, drugs, proliferation of weapons, unemployment and crime—they all affect the very cohesion of our societies.”
Multilateralism: “Small and medium-sized countries have a specific interest in an international system based on effective multilateralism and the rule of law. They form the backbone of the United Nations. They can make a difference and act as driving force on many issues beneficial to the world community.”
Multilateralism: “Since joining the United Nations more than 50 years ago Austria has constantly worked for multilateral solutions to global challenges. Our candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council is one expression of our determination to serve the World Organization. This is the most important responsibility that can be entrusted to a member of the United Nations. We stand ready to assume this responsibility and ask you for your support. We will work for common solutions to our common global challenges in a sense of true partnership.”
Azerbaijan
H.E. M. Elmar Maharram oglu Mammadyarov, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Multilateralism: “The effectiveness of international security system impacts on the authority of the United Nations. When the agreement among the Security Council members on the approaches to overcome the challenges to the world peace seems elusive, then it seriously impacts on the common security and credibility of the United Nations. We shall respect our shared values and accept the restraints inherent in those values in order to find an approach that is based on a global consensus. The UN Security Council shall fully realize its primary responsibility for the collective management of threats that transcends national boundaries and have implications on international security. All of us must strictly follow the UN Charter as a unique instrument of international relations.”
Peace: “Protection and promotion of human rights is one of the central duties of the international community. Today, it is not merely a question of protecting individuals but is fundamental for promoting peace and stability across the globe.”
Bahamas
H.E. The Right Honourable Hubert Alexander Ingraham, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance
26 September 2008
Nuclear Waste: “And, the threats to our environment from climate change are exacerbated by the threat created by the continued and transshipment of nuclear waste through the waters surrounding my country and other Caribbean states. I renew the call for an end to this potentially perilous activity.”
Terrorism: “International peace and security is important to us all. The Bahamas fully supported the General Assembly’s adoption in September 2006 of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy as a framework for collective action to prevent and combat terrorism.”
Terrorism and peace: “The Bahamas condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations; and we call for, and commit to, the full implementation of a culture of peace, justice and human development, and respect for all religions and cultures.”
Terrorism: “I am pleased to inform of my Government’s ratification, since taking office last year, of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, the International Convention on the Suppression of Terrorist Bombings and the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime and its three Protocols. The Bahamas commends the Secretary General’s initiative in organizing the first-ever UN Symposium on Support for the Victims of Terrorism.”
Militarism: “Escalating acts of crime and violence, civil unrest, wars and internal conflicts around the world continue to threaten our efforts to create a just and peaceful international environment.”
Small arms and light weapons: “Yet, the meteoric rise in the illicit trafficking in drugs, small arms and light weapons, illegal migration, and human trafficking through our sub-region creates a formidable challenge to the national security and socio-economic growth and development of our countries. The Bahamas reiterates the call made my Caricom last July for the illicit brokering in small arms and light weapons to be addressed in a holistic, transparent and legally-binding manner, with renewed commitments for effective and enhanced safeguards.”
Bahrain
H.E. Mr. Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmed Bin Mohamed Al-Khalifa, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Nuclear energy: “The use of peaceful nuclear energy has become a preferred option for many countries, and the Kingdom of Bahrain hence shares this interest with the international community. Therefore, future agreements on the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes must be made within a strengthened nonproliferation regime, with improved safeguards and an expanded verification mechanism, in order to ensure that our peoples are not put at risk. Indeed, a highlight of the Supreme Council of the GCC, last December, was the acknowledgment of the right of countries of the region to seek nuclear expertise, and to possess nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, in close cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
“Given their universal effects and implications, energy and its various sources are in need of a holistic, global approach. Yet, they are dealt with in a fragmented, piecemeal manner. This unsatisfactory situation leads us to suggest the establishment of a truly global energy organization. This would bring a joint international perspective to determining the role and usage of hydrocarbon energy, nuclear power, and new and renewable energy sources and will introduce innovative solutions to reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.”
Multilateralism: “The fact is that multilateral cooperation is fundamental to addressing these challenges, as no country alone can solve such issues and crises, nor isolate itself from their consequences.”
Terrorism: “We must exert our utmost efforts, to address weaknesses such as the threats to the international security system from a whole range of sources, including extremists, terrorists, drug traffickers, money launderers or intellectual property pirates. We need to develop collective security arrangements that will unite and bring together our security efforts, while guaranteeing respect of the existing borders between states and non-encroachment on their sovereignty. On the issue of terrorism, we consider terrorism to have many faces—be it in the form of the heinous crime which struck Islamabad a few days ago, be it or in the form of agitation and instigation from a distance, or be it in other forms. We should be clear in confronting terrorism in a comprehensive manner, so as to defeat it, both in the field and ideologically. We believe that if there is a battle against terrorism, it should be a comprehensive battle by all to rid us of this evil.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “The Kingdom of Bahrain therefore reiterates its call for a peaceful solution to the Iranian nuclear file to avoid the scourge of war, and to enhance world peace and stability.”
WMD Free Zone in the Middle East, nuclear energy: “Moreover, there is an urgent need for the Middle East, including the Gulf region, to be free from weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear weapons, while safeguarding the rights of countries to the peaceful use of nuclear energy, in accordance with the safeguards agreements of the IAEA.”
Peace: “As Arabs, we accept peace as a strategic option, committed to legitimacy, and to concluding past conflicts and hostility, opening instead a new chapter for an historic rapprochement between the peoples of the region towards a better future, dominated by understanding, stability, and prosperity.”
Bangladesh
H.E. Mr. Dr. Fakhruddin Ahmed, Honourable Chief Adviser of the Caretaker Government
26 September 2008
No relevant references.
Barbados
H.E. Mr. David Thompson, Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Economic Affairs and Development, Labour, Civil Service and Energy
26 September 2008
Peace (quoting the Right Excellent Errol Barrow): “We will support genuine efforts at world peace, because our society is stable.... We shall not involve ourselves in sterile ideologial wranglings because we are exponents not of the diplomacy of power, but of the diplomacy of peace and prosperity.”
Terrorism: “We will partner with our fellow Caribbean states to ... secure our borders from the threats of drugs and arms trafficking, money laundering and terrorism.”
Peace: “We are fervent advocates of the notion of the Caribbean as a zone of peace and we view with great concern any action, from whatever quarter, that seeks to reintroduce the anachronism of cold-war rivalry into our peaceful regional community of nations.”
Multilateralism: “And finally, because we are a small responsible member of the international community, and we believe in the positive role that small states can play in advancing the cause of international peace and equitable economic and social development, we rededicate ourselves to the building of an international system that operates on the principle of multilateralism and that respects the sovereign equality of all states and the tenets of genuine non-alignment.”
Belarus
H.E. Mr. Andrei Dapkuinas, Permanent Representative of Belarus to the United Nations
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Progress in ensuring greater role and authority of the General Assembly and enhancing its impact on world affairs could be possible only when every Member State would be sure of its modest but positive contribution to the tackling of global problems receiving an attentive and unbiased consideration by the Assembly.”
Belgium
H.E. Mr. Karel De Gucht, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Belize
H.E. Mr. Wilfred P. Elrington, Attorney General, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “What Gordon Brown speaks to and what many of the leaders in this General Debate have highlighted is the global leadership challenge we face. In addressing this challenge, we would propose that we must first examine how our multilateral institution function. Belize holds the view that the way forward is for the United Nations to concentrate its efforts on convincing the leaders and peoples of the developed world that the security, development and wellbeing of all peoples of the world affords the best guarantee for their own safety, security and development and ultimately their very survival.
Peace: “The United Nations still represents the great hope for all our peoples. The principles upon which it was founded and the objectives for which it was formed, are no less relevant today than they were in 1945. For my own country, our membership to the United Nations secured for us the hope of peace, security and development even as we continue to struggle with a long extant claim to our territory. It provides the framework within which we can peacefully settle our differences.”
Multilateralism: “We are still soldiers in the battle for Freedom, Equality and Justice. But in fighting that battle we no longer need the crude instruments of war. We have instead as our weapon the power of the rule of law, cooperation and friendship between peoples and nations, and an abiding faith in multilateralism.”
Benin
H.E. Mr. Bony Yayi, President
23 September 2008
Unofficial translation by WILPF staff.
Peace and conflict: “I would like to launch an urgent appeal to all armed parties, to armed conflict which continue to rage throughout various hot spots around the world—in the Middle East, Asia, Africa or Latin America—to prompt them to choose the path of peace, and dialogue as well as respect for democratic values.”
Bhutan
H.E. Mr. Lyonchoen Jigmi Yoezer Thinley, Prime Minister
26 September 2008
Terrorism: “And then there is terrorism and extremism of the most barbaric cowardly kind – using the weak and the deranged to kill and maim the innocent.”
Bolivia
H.E. Mr. Evo Morales Ayma, President
23 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Mr. Haris Silajdžic, Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina
23 September 2008
Arms embargo: “Some of the international community insisted on maintaining the arms embargo imposed by the UN Security Council in 1991, thus adding to the obviously overwhelming military advantage of Milosevic’s regime that was bent on destroying Bosnia and its people. They justified this course by claiming that the lifting of the embargo would add oil to the fire. The result, inevitably, was quelling that fire with the blood of the innocent.”
Botswana
H.E. Mr. Phandu T.C. Skelemani, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Mr. President, as the international community, we have the collective responsibility to equip and optimally use our multilateral body, the United Nations, to search for fair and just solutions to global problems, in order to contribute to the betterment of all humanity.
“The United Nations is today more than ever before required to respond effectively and swiftly, to the complex challenges of the 21st century. Conflicts, poverty, disease, natural and man-made disasters, climate change, energy, terrorism, are among a myriad of pressing problems that confront humanity and require an urgent global response. It is, thus, imperative that we continue to make concerted efforts to address these challenges in pursuit of a better tomorrow. The magnitude of these challenges clearly requires multilateral strategies and solutions.”
Militarism: “Mr. President, as we meet here, let us always remind ourselves of the solemn commitments which we the people of the world have undertaken to end war and human suffering. Botswana calls upon all States especially the major powers to set an example by refraining from the use of weapons in resolving conflicts. Military confrontation is unfortunately always a demonstration of either the failure of the will to use diplomacy, or the urge to show off military superiority and the inability to employ resources and technological advances for the benefit of improving human lives.”
Peace: “Mr. President, the search for global peace and security remains a matter of vital interest to my delegation. While we may have made significant strides in the promotion of peace through conflict prevention and resolution, post conflict recovery, peace building, conflicts continue to flare up, thus, making the restoration of peace, a remote possibility to some in the world.”
Brazil
H.E. Mr. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President
23 September 2008
Multilateralism: “...the multilateral system must be overhauled to meet the challenges of the 21st century.”
Brunei Darussalam
His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, Crown Prince
25 September 2008
No relevant references.
Bulgaria
H.E. Mr. Sergei Stanishev, Prime Minister
26 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Effective multilateralism requires an intensive partnership between UN and regional organizations.”
Multilateralism, peace, and security: “Different forms of regional, subregional and transborder cooperation may serve as building blocks of a comprehensive collective security system. Peace and stability are well-rooted when local communities and immediate neighbors live in harmony. This philosophy guided the recent Bulgarian chairmanship of the South East European Cooperation Process. Regional cooperation in South East Europe has gained momentum recently. South East Europe is on its way to turn from an area recovering from war to a thriving and dynamic region. In the last twelve months a whole new architecture of interaction came into being, connecting the countries of the region to the rest of Europe and the international community.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, WMD, small arms and light weapons: “Disarmament, arms control and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, as well as strengthening of the international treaty system should be a priority to all states, as the list of risks and challenges to our common security is, regrettably, a very long one. In this regard, the need for a full and universal implementation of the Non-proliferation Treaty regime is, and must remain, of utmost importance. The same is true for the full implementation of the UN Program of Action against the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons.”
ATT: “We are strongly committed to working for the adoption of a legally binding international Arms Trade Treaty.”
Terrorism: “When countering terrorism it is essential to conduct that struggle within the requirements of international law, to overcome prejudices, stereotype perceptions in a world of great diversity. Bulgaria's long history of tolerance has been based on the common understanding that cultural diversity is a great asset in our society. It is in this spirit Bulgaria actively participates in the UN Alliance of Civilizations and supports other like-minded initiatives.”
Peace: “Our task today is not only to keep the peace - we must also make certain that peace is irreversible and sustainable. The Peacebuilding Commission, an early achievement of the reform process, has now become functional and has achieved some practical results in Burundi and Sierra Leone.”
Peace and security: “Stable peace and security can only be achieved through development. Therefore there is an urgent need to accelerate the implementation of the internationally agreed development goals, including the Millennium Development Goals.”
Burkina Faso
H.E. Mr. Blaise Compaoré, President
24 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Burundi
H.E. Mr/ Ms Gabriel Ntisezerana, Second Vice-President
26 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Cambodia
H.E. Mr Ouch Borith, Secretary of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
29 September 2008
Small arms and light weapons: “Furthermore, our world is still marred by the spread of small arms and light weapons which continue to have implications on our comprehensive security and livelihoods, We need to address this issue with seriousness and prompt actions. As a country which was ravaged by war and conflict for more than two decades, Cambodia experienced the suffering of the use of small arms and light weapons and other weapons of war. In this regard, we attach great importance to the agreed international instruments, especially the implementation of the 2001 United Nations Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons. Over the years, Cambodia has taken practical measures to strictly control the use and circulation of arms and ammunitions, as well as to eliminate the illegal procurement and sales of arms.”
Landmines: “On the landmines and UXO issues, we are of the view that landmines are not only a security problem but also a humanitarian one, as the innocent victims become permanently traumatized and physically handicapped, while their families suffer untold misery of spiritual and material deprivation.
“Landmines and UXOs issues have been integrated in our national agenda, such as in the ‘Cambodia Millennium Development Goals’ (CMDGs), the National Strategic Development Plan (NSDP), and the ‘Rectangular Strategy’ of the Royal Government of Government in order to cope with this challenging issue, Cambodia highly appreciates the valuable contributions of both development partners and donors in terms of financial and material support over the years.
“With our de-mining experiences and as part of our contribution to international peace, security and development, Cambodia has dispatched its third group of 135 De-miners of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces to Sudan, for mine clearance action under the umbrella of the UN Peacekeeping Operations.”
Terrorism: “Terrorism is a stumbling block to the advancement and properity of our society and the world at large. We need to recommit ourselves and strengthen our practical measures, including putting gin place a good strategy to combat terrorism at national, regional, and international levels. We must enhance at all levels the relevant instruments on counter-terrorism, in particular the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Strategy which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2006.
“For Cambodia, the Royal Government of Cambodia has devoted its time, energy, efforts and resources to join the international community to combat terrorism in accordance with the United Nations conventions and protocols and agreement on security cooperation with ASEAN Member States, including its partners in the region. To live up to our strong commitment, the Law on Counter Terrorism was promulgated by His Majesty the King of Cambodia in July 2007, and our national mechanism in this area has been constantly strengthened.”
Cameroon
H.E. Mr. Paul Biya, President
25 September 2008
Security: “If appropriate responses are not rapidly found, there will be reason to fear dramatic repercussions on international trade, economic growth, social progress, political stability and hence global security.”
Multilateralism: “It is therefore an urgent necessity to act rapidly and collectively. We believe an appropriate response to this situation lies in ensuring coordination at the highest level.”
Peace and security: “As regards peace and security, perhaps more than in any other area, Africa needs the active solidarity of the international community.... Here, the peace agreements signed after lengthy negotiations are yet to fully enter into force. There, force is used to jeopardize democratic achievements.”
Terrorism and multilateralism: “Our continent is, unfortunately, not also spared by the threat of terrorism which has henceforth taken a global dimension. I am convinced that only global and resolute action will help address this issue. Cameroon will contribute its quota as necessary.”
Canada
H.E. Mr. Leonard Edwards, Deputy Foreign Minister
29 September 2008
Peace, security, and terrorism: “For Canada, the United Nations remains indispensable for addressing the many global challenges that confront us today, whether it be the search for peace and security, or the promotion of human rights, democracy and international development, or combatting terrorism, or the protection of the environment.”
Multilateralism: “These challenges require collective and cooperative strategies. They cannot be tackled by any one country acting alone. That is why we much redouble our efforts to make the United Nations more effective and efficient so that it can deliver real results.”
Terrorism: “We stand ready to work within the UN to address new challenges such as climate change and combatting terrorism.”
Cape Verde
H.E. Mr. Pedro Verona Rodrigues Pires, President
24 September 2008
Unofficial translation by WILPF staff.
Multilateralism: “The world grows in complexity with its multiple challenges and numerous risks and uncertainties. This state of affairs calls for increased multilateralism, more collective responsibility and greater cooperation. In short, it demands and expects more and better from the United Nations.”
Security and terrorism: “There is risk to our economic, human, political and military security; in other words, our general and collective security. On the one and organized transnational crime and terrorism threaten the international order and the rule of law. On the other hand, the effects of global warming and climate change, as well as the risks imposed by their worsening, are real effects that confront world leaders and institutions.”
Peace: “World peace continues to be out of reach. Sites with armed conflict still exist. Indeed they resurge repeatedly or persist with low intensity. In the meantime, new sources of tension arise in many places. However, I believe that we agree that war is not the best course to overcome these challenges.”
Security and multilateralism: “We also have failed to build security and trust among all and for all, large and small, rich and poor. Without security, without social stability, without political and institutional cohesiveness and above all, without mutual trust among the international political actors, it is difficult to further the premises that may contribute ensuring a solution for major global problems...”
Central African Republic
H.E. Army General François Bozizé, President
24 September 2008
Unofficial translation by WILPF staff.
Multilateralism: “In this era of interdependence among states, the prime solution would appear to be the absolute need for a collective decision making forum and an instrument for rapid action. This is the vision indeed which the founders of our Organization had in 1945 but it must be recognized today that there are limitations to the various institutions which make up the United nations and to agree on the need for reform in order to turn it into an instrument which is much more effective to implement the MDGs and to seek for peace, the kind of peace which fits the current situation.
“My country is convinced of the importance of genuine democratization of the United Nations System, in this connection, particular attention should paid to the functioning of the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council, as well as the Bretton Woods institutions, and the General Assembly. If together we take the courageous decision to implement this ambitious project, we would win the wager of providing the world with an ideal structure which is able to tackle all international questions; this is an opportunity to build a world that is more secure, more equitable, more balanced and freer for all peoples.”
Security: “In Central Africa, because of the destructing action of many irregular military rebel groups, often manipulated from outside, food and security particularly in the rural areas are often provoked by lack of security itself. This has led the government to organize a national seminar on reform of the security sector in April 2008 which is an important step towards peace.”
Terrorism: “Hunger, the environment, corruption and ethnic conflicts are indeed a burden for the most needy populations on earth. Other threats such as terrorism, poverty and bad governance also help to make the world even more vulnerable and mean that we must find some replies and to find some ways and means to finding a durable solution to them.”
Chad
H. E. Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Minister for Foreign Relations
29 September 2008
Awaiting translation.
Chile
H.E. Dr. Michelle Bachelet, President
24 September 2008
Terrorism: “We have witnessed – sometimes tragically – the emergence or reappearance of various problems of global significance, such as climate change, terrorism and the food crisis.”
Multilateralism: “I appeal for an urgent and genunie commitment to multilateralism. This is why we must undertake to continue supporting and reforming international institutions and particularly the United Nations, to make the Organization more representative and more democratic and a better response to the hopes of our peoples.”
Multilateralism and peace: “We have set an example of how multilateral commitment should be understood. It is a commitment forged in the diversity of political projects but based on shared values such as democracy, peace and defence of human rights.”
Multilateralism and peace: “[The La Moneda Summit] tells us that the values of democracy, dialogue, human rights and peace are becoming stronger than ever in Latin America.... It tells us that these values, in addition to being widely shared by the citizens, are becoming entrenched in multilateralism, in institutions and international law. All the more reason, then, that we should feel obligated to cooperate in the building of a better world.”
China
H.E. Mr. Wen Jiabao, Premier of the State Council
24 September 2008
Peace: “China will remain committed to the path of peaceful development, unswervingly pursue reform and opening-up, and continue to adhere to an independent foreign policy of peace.”
Peace: “The world needs peace, for only with peace can there be development. China earnestly hopes to have a peaceful international environment in order to achieve its development goals. The Chinese government is committed to an independent foreign policy of peace and stands ready to work with other countries to advance the noble cause of peace and progress of mankind [sic].”
Peace: “China will, through its own development, contribute to peace and development in the world.”
Peace: “China’s development is peaceful in nature. It will not harm anyone or pose a threat to anyone. China does not seek hegemony now, nor will it do so in the future. China keeps and develops an appropriate level of military capability solely for the purpose of safeguarding China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Terrorism and multilateralism: “Given the global nature of issues threatening the survival and development of mankind [sic] such as ... the spread of terrorism ... no country can expect to stay away from the difficulties or handle the problems all by itself.”
Colombia
H.E. Mr Álvaro Uribe Vélez, President of the Republic of Colombia
24 September 2008
Security: “Colombia continues to fight so that each and every citizen can be confident about living, working, enterprising, studying and being happy in their Homeland. Confidence sustained by democratic security, security for socially responsible investment and the construction of social cohesion.”
Security: “Social cohension validates security. Meeting the Millennium Goals, set for 2015, is a real urgency for us as an essential part of building social cohension.”
Security: “In a democracy of opinion such as ours, the sustainability of democratic security depends on its credibility, which in turn is based on effectiveness and transparency.”
Security: “There are intangible results of democratic security: citizens have greater faith in the State, and they seek their protection, overcoming the past indifference of some and the inclination of many to address their risks by their own means; we have recovered the monopoly over the weapons of the State and Official Justice; citizens have lost their fear to denounce, give testimony and cooperate with the Armed Forces and with Justice; victims have also left behind their fear, today they are coming forward to claim their rights.”
Terrorism: “From [observance of Human Rights] ... comes our respect for liberties in the midst of the fights against terrorism.”
Terrorism: “Illicit Drugs are a great enemy of the environment and they fuel terrorism.”
Colombia also talked about terrorism in its country.
Comoros
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Abdallah Sambi, President
25 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Congo, Republic of the
H.E. Mr. Basile Ikouebe, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Francophonie
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “We reaffirm here that the United Nations offers to us the ideal framework to work together in search of solutions that bring in durable impact. This is the sense underlying our constant attachment to multilateralism.”
Multilateralism: “It is largely due to these regional efforts and to the support of other bilateral and multilateral partners that the Central African Republic, to cite as an example our neighboring country, is working towards bring[ing] back peace and security through the virtues of dialogue between the Government and the rebel movements.”
Terroism, small arms and light weapons: “In its desire to participate in the collective effort in the area of peace and security, my country reaffirms here, its full commitment to the fight against terrorism, the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, drug and human trafficking.”
Non-proliferation: “Congo is fully committed to strictly observe the Treaty on the Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) in its three facets.”
Multilateralism: “Our attachment to multilateralism makes us believe that there is a pressing need to pursue the work of the United Nations reform, and particularly, that of the Security Council.”
Costa Rica
H.E. Mr. Óscar Arias Sánchez, President
24 September 2008
Military Spending: “World military spending has reached $3.3 billion per day, but international aid continues to reach the poorest countries at a snail’s pase, while failing to reach middle-income countries altogether.”
Military Spending: “Governments can indirectly hurt their peoples in many ways, one of which is excessive military spending. Particularly in developing nations, every long-range missile, every helicopter gunship, every tank, is a symbol of postponed attention to the needs of our people.
“On a planet where one-sixth of the population lives on less than a dollar a day, spending $1.2 trillion on arms and soldiers is an offense and a symbol of irrationality, because the security of a satisfied world is more certain that the security of an armed world. Latin America does not escape this phenomenon. Last year, Latin American military spending reached $39 billion, in a region that has never been more peaceful or democratic.
“I know no greater perversion of values, and no greater misplacement of priorities. With a small percentage of world military spending, we could give potable water to all of humanity, equip all homes with electricity, achieve universal literacy, and eradicate all preventable diseases. I’m not talking about a utopia of a world without arms. Unfortunately, that is an idea whose time has not yet come. I am talking about tiny percentages of an expenditure that could be reduced without damaging countries’ ability to defend themselves—particularly developing countries.
“That’s why my government has presented the Costa Rica Consensus, an initiative that would create mechanisms to forgive debts and use international financial resources to support developing nations that spend more on environmental protections, education, health care and housing for people, and less on arms and soldiers. I am convinced this will bring us greater development, greater security and greater peace than all the money we now set aside for our armies. I humbly ask you today to support this initiative.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “I also ask for your support for the Arms Trade Treaty that Costa Rica is pushing forward in the heart of this organization, to prohibit the transfer of arms to States, groups or individuals if sufficient reason exists to believe that those arms will be used to violate human rights or International Law. The destructive power of the 640 million small arms and light weapons that exist in the world, most in the hands of civilians, deserves the same or even more attention than military spending.”
Militarism: “Sixty years ago, an illustrious Costa Rican figure, Jose Figueres, abolished my country’s army. What had been the General Fortress of of the Costa Rican armed forces is today a National Museum. Our children have never seen a column of soldiers on the march; they know only the march of columns of ants. No Costa Rican children know the difference between this or that missile, between this or or that combat plane, but they can distinguish among the trees of the forest and the animals of the sea; they know the importance of the water cycle, of wind energy, of rivers and of the sun. Ours is a nation of peace among humans, but we also aspire to be a nation of peace with all forms of life.”
Peace: “We must guarantee peace and justice for the past, peace and development for the present, peace and nature for the future.”
Peace: “Forgiveness is based on memory, not in concealment; and peace will be possible only through memory.”
Peace: “I assure you that if we confront the spirit of our past, our present and our future; if we build peace on justice, development and nature; if we reject oblivion, armaments and environmental destruction; we will reach that promised land some day, and our children, and our children’s children, will never again be beggars in the kingdom of our dreams.”
Côte D’Ivoire
H. E. Mr. Youssouf Bakayoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Côte d’Ivoire
29 September 2008
Awaiting translation.
Croatia
H.E. Dr. Ivo Sanader, Prime Minister
26 September 2008
Multilateralism: “It reminds us of the constant need for an effective multilateral effort to address global challenges, and to maintain and build peace in a range of conflict zones and post-conflict societies, searching for solutions within the rule based international order, through the promotion of freedom, democracy, development and the respect for human rights.”
Multilateralism: “This is a commitment that Croatia and its people accepted even before our independence. A commitment to strengthen international cooperation through effective multilateral organizations for advancing peace and security, facilitating development combating poverty, protecting our environment, eradicating diseases and promoting public health.”
Multilateralism: “As a member of the Security Council, Croatia will continue to work as a responsible and dedicated partner in the common effort to maintain and build peace through the promotion of human rights and democracy, the fight for the eradication of poverty and injustice, and the advancement of effective multilateralism. In this Croatia will be guided by a sense of responsibility, solidarity and good faith. We hold that effective multilateral action, including with regional organizations, is our best guarantee in safeguarding these values.”
Multilateralism: “We are also aware of the fact that the failure to address these issues in a multilateral context of cooperation could lead us into old paradigms of confrontation.”
Terrorism: “We live in a world that has significantly redefined the traditional notion of threats to international peace and security. In an increasingly interconnected world, global threats are taking many forms. Terrorism, poverty, disease, climate change, environmental degradation and rising food prices command that we work together, as only a common vision and collective action, implemented in the spirit of solidarity and responsibility, can counter there challenges.
“Terrorism attempts to undermine the core values of the modern world, and poses a serious challenge to our security, to the basic principles of democratic societies and to the rights and freedoms of our citizens. Terrorist acts are criminal in nature and cannot be justified under and circumstances. Croatia appreciates and fully supports all efforts in the global struggle against terrorism, within the UN system and beyond.
“Since the beginning of this year, Croatia has been chairing the Security Council Counter Terrorism Committee, which was established in the immediate aftermath of the devastating terrorist attacks against the United State and the whole democratic world on September 11, 2001. We have assumed this responsibility with utmost seriousness and are working towards moving the Committee forward by focusing on concrete results and achieving realistic objectives.
“I would also like to reiterate the importance Croatia attaches to the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy as one of the primary international documents in the global fight against terrorism. Croatia is also active on the regional level, presiding over CODEXTER within the Council of Europe.”
Cuba
H.E. Mr. José Ramón Machado Ventura, First Vice-President of the Council of State and Ministers
24 September 2008
Peace: “The promotion of peace, solidarity, social justice and sustainable development is the only way to ensure the future. The prevailing world order, unjust and unsustainable, must be replaced by a new system that is truly democratic and equitable, based on respect for international Law and on the principles of solidarity and justice, putting an end to the inequalities and exclusion to which the great majorities of the population of our planet have been condemned.”
Militarism, peace, and security: “The wars of conquest, the aggression and illegal occupation of countries, military intervention and the bombing of innocent civilians, the unbridled arms race, the pillage and usurping of the Third World's natural resources and the imperial offensive to crush the resistance of the peoples who are defending their rights, constitute the greatest and most serious threats to peace and international security.”
Militarism and terrorism: “Concepts such as limitation of sovereignty, preemptive war or regime change, are an expression of the desire to mutilate the independence of our countries. The so-called war on terrorism or the false promotion of their freedoms, are an excuse for aggression and military occupation, for torture, arbitrary arrests and the denial of the right of self-determination of peoples, for unfair blockades and unilaterally imposed sanctions, for the imposition of political, economic and social models that facilitate imperial domination, in open disdain for history, cultures and the sovereign will of the peoples.”
Military spending: “While a trillion of dollars is spent on weapons in the world, more than 850 million human beings are starving; 1.1 billion people don't have access to drinking water, 2.6 billion lack sewage services and more than 800 million are illiterate. More than 640 million children tack adequate housing, 115 million do not attend primary school and 10 million die before the age of five, in most cases as the result of diseases that can be cured.”
Military spending, war, multilateralism: “Cuba once again calls on the governments of the developed countries, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned countries, to honor their commitments and, in particular, Cuba urges them to ...
- Put an end to the wars of occupation and to the plunder of the resources of the Third World countries and to free up at least a part of their millions in military spending to direct those resources towards international assistance for the benefit of sustainable development.
- And something that is today more urgent than ever, the establishment of a democratic and equitable international order, and a fair and transparent trading system where all States will participate, in sovereignty, in the decisions that affect them.”
Multilateralism: “We condemn the imposition of unilateral coercive measures in violation of International Law, and attempts to implant a single model for a political, economic and social system. We object to the negative practices of certifying countries according to the patterns and interests of the powerful. We strongly oppose political manipulation and the application of double standards in the matter of human rights, and we reject the selective imposition of politically motivated resolutions against the member countries of the [Non-Aligned] Movement.”
Terrorism: “What respect is due to a government that attacks the sovereignty of other Stales using the excuse of the fight against terrorism, while at the same time guaranteeing impunity to anti-Cuban terrorists?”
Cyprus
H.E. Mr. Dimitris Christofias, President
24 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Maintaining the effectiveness of multilateral diplomacy and strengthening the relevance of the United Nations is one of the cornerstones of the foreign policy of Cyprus since its Independence in 1960.”
Multilateralism: “Small states have higher stakes in multilateral diplomacy and in a fair and functional system of collective security based on the principles of sovereign equality and respect of territorial integrity.”
Multilateralism: “Our world faces many problems which are increasingly becoming more complex. It is our conviction that these problems can be solved and new threats can be prevented only through effective multilateral collective action.”
Peace and terrorism: “Peace must prevail. A true peace based on respect of international law and not the right of might. A response to the problem of international terrorism will only be effective if our world becomes less unjust. Without tackling hunger and poverty, without solving regional disputes on the basis of international legitimacy and without a more fair distribution of global wealth, peace can not grow firm roots.”
Czech Republic
H.E. Mr. Karel Schwarzenberg, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Terrorism: “We need to step up efforts in combating international terrorism. The stakes remain high. With our deep condolences to the people of India and Pakistan, we strongly condemn the recent terrorist attacks in New Delhi and Islamabad. We must not be shaken but stand up to this scourge united, stronger and more determined. I was deeply moved by the condolences expressed by my Pakistani counterpart. It is touching to hear with from someone whose country has suffered immensely from terrorism.”
WMD, non-proliferation, terrorism, CTBT: “We need to undertake some bold steps in the area of weapons of mass destruction and non-proliferation. We should reduce the risk that those weapons are misused or fall into the hand of terrorists. The immediate task is to ensure a successful outcome of the Non-Proliferation Treaty review process and the entry into force of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty.”
Iran and North Korea’s nuclear programmes: “In this context, I would like to express our concern over the Iranian and North Korean nuclear programs. We fully recognize the indispensable right of every country to exploit nuclear power for civilian purposes, but we should act when it could be diverted toward military purposes in breach of international commitments.”
Cluster munitions: “My country was among those, who vigorously called for a new universal norm to prevent risks stemming from the use of cluster munitions. The Czech Republic will be among the first to sign the new Convention on Cluster Munitions this December. I am convinced that the more countries join the Convention, the more profound and positive effect on the lives of countless individuals and communities it will have.”
Democratic People's Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. Pak Kil Yon, Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Terrorism: “Nearly ten years have passed since the UNGA has adopted the Millennium Declaration... Nevertheless, a vicious circle of aggression and intervention, conflict and terrorism still persists within the international relations, and consequently global peace and security continue to face new serious challenges.”
Militarism: “The military alliances ever in place in the Cold War era are being further intensified and arms races of new forms are taking place in Asia-Pacific, Europe and other different regions.”
Terrorism and non-proliferation: “Attempts to justify violations of sovereignty of developing countries under the pretext of ‘war on terror’, ‘human rights’ and ‘non-proliferation’ get more undisguised.”
Multilateralism: “The reality of today requires all member states to pool their efforts together for the building of a just, peaceful and prosperous world as a matter of priority as they have pledged through the UN Millennium Declaration.”
Peace: “The building of a new world, free and peaceful, without domination and subjugation, aggression and war is a common aspiration of the world peoples, and represents itself as the shared responsibilites of the humankind at present.”
Multilateralism, peace, and security: “It is also imperative to hold in check the attempts of some individual countries to address critical international issues related to world peace and security solely for their own interests.”
Militarism: “...a series of reckless military maneuvers destabilizing the regional situation such as strengthening of strategic military alliances, massive shipment of state-of-the-art war equipment and annual large-scale military exercises are being conducted in and around the Korean peninsula. The “Ulji Freedom Guardian” joint military exercise staged by the United States and South Korea last August under the pretext of what they called ‘preparation for emergency on the Korean Peninsula’ was nothing more than a war drills mounting a preemptive nuclear strike on the DPRK, to all intents and purposes.”
North Korea’s nuclear programme: “Denuclearization of the Korean peninsula is the lifetime instruction of President KIM IL SUNG, the Great Leader of our people, and the Government of the DPRK remains consistent in its position to resolve the nuclear issue peacefully through dialogue and negotiations.
“Adoption of North-South joint declaration on the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula in 1992 and DPRK-U.S. Agreed Framework in 1994 are a demonstration of the firm political will of our Government to denuclearize the Korean peninsula. Thanks to our sincere endeavor, several rounds of six-party talks were held to date, enabling the adoption of the joint statement on September 19, 2005, followed by the agreements on and implementation of phased actions aimed at resolving the nuclear issue of the Korean peninsula. The DPRK honored its commitments to the agreements of the six party talks in good faith.
“Nuclear facilities were being disabled at the final stage, a nuclear declaration submitted and even those measures envisaged for the destruction phase implemented in advance. This notwithstanding, the U.S. has laid an artificial obstacle to implementing the October 3 agreement by refusing to implement her obligations and put forward such an unjust demand as verification of the “international standard” never agreed on among the six parties or between the DPRK and the U.S.
“The ‘international standard’ asserted by the U.S. is nothing but ‘special inspection’ which the IAEA called for in the 1990s to infringe upon the sovereignty of the DPRK and caused it to pull out of the NPT in the end.
“The United States has now put on hold the effectuation of the measure for delisting the DPRK as a ‘state sponsor of terrorism’ under the pretext of verification even after officially declaring that the DPRK is not a ‘state sponsor of terrorism’. This is little short of admitting that the list is not related to terrorism in actuality.
“As far as the verification is concerned, it is a commitment to be fulfilled by the six parties at the final phase of denuclearization of the whole Korean Peninsula in accordance with the September 19 joint statement. The U.S. insistence on the unilateral inspection of the DPRK is a brigandish demand for unilaterally disarming the DPRK, the other warring party, by discarding its commitment to the denuclearization of the whole Korean Peninsula, the core of which is to remove the U.S. nuclear threat according to the September 19 joint statement.
“Now that the U.S. has broken the agreement, the DPRK is inevitably taking relevant countermeasures on the basis of the principle of ‘action for action’. If the six parties are not true to their words in implementing respective obligations in the light of a great lack of trust with each other, no progress will be made at all. This is a lesson drawn from the process of the previous six party talks. The DPRK will continue to make every sincere effort towards the denuclearization of the whole Korean peninsula, but will not be indifferent to an attempt to offend our dignity and self-respect, and violate its sovereignty.”
Democratic Republic of Congo
H.E. Mr. Ileka Atoki, Chairperson of the Delegation
29 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Denmark
H.E. Ambassador Carsten Staur, Chairperson of the Delegation
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Global challenges call for global responses. The best way to deal with global issues is through an effective and strong multilateral system – through a strong United Nations system.”
Terrorism: “During the past weeks we have witnessed new cruel and meaningless acts of terrorism. The evil terrorist attack in Islamabad on the Marriot Hotel this September 20th resulted in the loss of many innocent lives; most of the lives were Pakistanis, and also other nationalities, one of them Danish. This and other attacks came only a few weeks after all UN member states had reaffirmed their commitment to the UN counter terrorism strategy. We must respond to these despicable acts of fanatics with great determination to strengthen international cooperation in this area. All UN bodies must join up in the fight against terrorism. Hopefully, this General Assembly will, finally, agree to a comprehensive convention on international terrorism. In addition, we must focus on due process and sanctions, as it becomes increasingly clear that the lack of adequate due process hampers the efficiency of the sanction systems.”
Multilateralism, terrorism, non-proliferation: “In the are of development, in the area of peace and security, in the area of human right – and in the many areas that transcend borders. But this can only be addressed through multilateral cooperation, like counter-terrorism, non-proliferation, pandemics – and climate change. Multilateralism is our only response to the challenges, risks and opportunities of an interdependent and globalized world.”
Dominica
H.E. Mr Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister
26 September 2008
No relevant references.
Dominican Republic
H.E. Mr. Leonel Fernandez Reyna, President
24 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Ecuador
H.E. Ms. Maria Fernanda Espinosa, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Ecuador to the United Nations
29 September 2008
Terrorism, disarmament: “We share with him the need to prioritize the fight for the eradication of poverty and to pay special attention to relevant issues such as climate change, energy crisis, terrorism, human rights, disarmament and nuclear control, the rights of women and children, and the preservation of biodiversity and of culture diversity.”
Multilateralism: “My country is convinced that the strengthening of the multilateral system is an imperative in the current world. We have no other option to guarantee peace and security in the world, than to renew our political decision of making serious efforts to advance in the debate on the reform of the United Nations system and, particularly, of the Security Council.”
Mulitlateralism: “We need to urgently build a multilateral system that respond promptly and effective to current challenges and that truly exercises fundamental principles international law, such as the sovereign equality of the States.”
Terrorism: “My country supports the actions the United Nations is putting in place to address the serious problems of security we face, such as the fight against terrorism, the world problem of drugs, the fight against transnational organized crime. In this sense, we are glad to see the positive results reached during the first analysis of the advance in the implementation of the Global Strategy against Terrorism, and which decided to institutionalize the Counter Terrorism Working Group.”
Terrorism: “Ecuador also supports negotiations aimed at the eventual adoption of a legally binding Convention on terrorism. However, we believe that, in view of the transcendence and the implications of the issue, this Convention should gather in an express and unequivocal way the obligations of all States of limiting the fight against terrorism in the framework of international law, human rights, international humanitarian law and the principles and norms established in the United Nations Charter.
“The fight against terrorism cannot be an excuse for some States to feel released from their obligation of respecting fundamental norms of international law, such as the sovereignty and the territorial integrity of other States, and the non-intervention in their internal affairs. The violation of the human rights of alleged terrorists, who have been tortured, have been incarcerated in clandestine military prisons and have been deprived of these elemental right to defend themselves also constitute a very serious precedent. These practices must be condemned by the international community.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, WMD: “Ecuador, whose foreign policy reflects its firm commitment with disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, has not only adhered to international instruments adopted in this issue but it also supports and executes all actions issued from these instruments to achieve their effective implementation. Regrettably, we are concerned by the fact that there are countries that have no adhered to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons while others, which have adhered to it, are not complying with their obligations, especially in regards to disarmament and destruction of their arsenals.”
Small arms and light weapons: “Other issues of great concern for my country are the fight against transnational organized crime and its ramifications: production and illicit traffic of narcotics, corruption, manufacturing and illicit traffic in small arms and light weapons, trafficking in persons. We believe that the United Nations has taken determined steps in these issues by adopting international conventions that allow cooperation between our countries to fight these scourges. We reiterate our commitment to continue cooperating and implementing national policies required to address these issues, but we believe that having adequate and equitable international cooperation is essential.”
Multilateralism: “Ecuador is convinced that the multilateral system, as opposed to the unipolar system, is the only way the world has to overcome the problems it faces, and above all to guarantee the wellbeing of the peoples and international peace and security.”
Egypt
H.E. M. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Terrorism: “The 63rd Session of the General Assembly takes place against the back drop of various international and regional developments that are closely linked to the peace and security of all humanity ... [including] combating terrorism.”
Multilateralism: “Egypt believes that all those challenges and others constitute high priorities for us on the international agenda. Their diagnosis and treatment require a concerted international effort. We must all be fully aware that the path of our common salvation from these problems lies in our collective diagnosis and our united stand in confronting them. We are in need of a new approach, a new vision and a new method in dealing with global problems. Unfortunately, the existing frameworks have proven unable to deal successfully with the challenges under consideration.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, WMD Zone in the Middle East, nuclear weapons, peace, and security: “The international approach to dealing with disarmament, arms control and nonproliferation is marred with defects, duality and regression that is disconcerting us. Egypt has always shown great interest in these matters which is best embodied in Egypt's invitation to rid the Middle East of all weapons of mass destruction. Our interest in this matter is based on our unwavering belief that security and military balance, especially in conflict areas, contributes to laying the solid foundations of peace between countries and peoples.
“However, achieving peace and security in any region requires, among other things, the establishment of just and parallel international and regional mechanisms in the areas of disarmament, arms control and non-proliferation. It is notable that, unfortunately, prominent members of the international community are unduly permissive with the issue of Israel's nuclear capabilities and the extent to which it constantly threatens the security of the Middle East. This occurs simultaneously with the attempts of some to enhance the obligations encompassed in international mechanisms without paying attention to the issue of achieving universality for the NPT and subjecting all nuclear facilities in the Middle East to the comprehensive safeguards system of the IAEA. Egypt will, nonetheless, persist in its endeavors, through existing mechanisms and forums, and in coordination with friendly States that understand the reality and danger of the situation, in order to change it, and to warn of the threats posed by failing to achieve universality for the NPT in the Middle East.”
Security: “Regional security in our region should be construed widely, and the security of the Arab Gulf - which is currently in the spotlight - is one of Egypt’s principal concerns, not only for Egypt's close relations with the GCC countries; but also for what Egypt represents in terms of strategic depth for its Arab brothers. Therefore, we are following closely all developments in the region, in particular the discourse about "new arrangements". We would like to affirm that Egypt is working in coordination with Members of the GCC with a view to protecting Arab national security and to guarantee that any such arrangements - if they come into existence - represent a true guarantee to the security of all parties.”
El Salvador
H.E. Mr Elías Antonio Saca González, President
24 September 2008
Unofficial translation by WILPF staff.
Peace and security: “We have invested in development we have tried to meet the MDGs and those successes will be swept aside by these excessive prices of oil. We cannot continue to wait; we must take immediate political decision to ensure development and to prevent a much deeper crisis in order to preserve peace, security and stability of the world.”
Multilateralism: “We must think about the role that the United Nations should play in the role of sustainable development. What the member states need is a modern organization, a strong organization with the institutions that are able to effectively face the challenges of the international situation. With this in mind, El Salvador would like to reiterate its support to the process of reforms within the Organization so that we are able to fulfill the principle of the Organization as it was created in 1945 particularly today when we are faced with threats in the world, threats against peace, security, human rights and international cooperation which are fundamental pillars of development. As part of this effort, the reform of the Security Council is of particular relevance. In that respect we would like to stress, that changes should be made to make the institution more democratic, representative and transparent in order to adapt to the current international situations.”
Peace and security: “We would like to reiterate our profound thanks to the system of the United Nations having accompanied us in the process of consolidation in the peace agreement in El Salvador. Today El Salvador is a model; we are living witnesses of the primordial role of the United Nations in guaranteeing peace and stability. Aware as we are of our experience, El Salvador participated actively as vice president in the Peacebuilding Commission, likewise we have become a troop contributing country to the Peace Keeping System, this is something that we do in honor; in order to defend world peace and security in time of need.”
Equatorial Guinea
H.E. Mr. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, President
25 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Eritrea
H.E. Mr. Osman Saleh, Minister of Foreign Affairs
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “The perplexing feature of this overarching and negative development is the emergence of ‘management by crisis’ as a new tool of policy promotion. These days, candid efforts are not exerted to prevent and manage conflicts. On the contrary, crises are
deliberately spawned and allowed to fester so that their ‘management’ would provide the United States with the opportunity and latitude for control in a situation of permanent instability. The absence of countervailing forces in a uni-polar world has only aggravated the situation. Principal among these is the weakness of the United Nations to pursue an independent line and act as a bulwark of robust multilateralism.”
Multilateralism: “The perils of unchecked uni-polarism have become glaringly obvious in the past years. This reality can only accentuate the need for bolstering the United Nations, to make it a democratic and a robust institution of multilateralism through prolonged and concerted collective efforts.”
Estonia
H.E. Mr. Toomas Hendrik Ilves, President
24 September 2008
No relevant references.
Ethiopia
H.E. Mr. Ato Seyoum Mesfin, Minister of Foreign Affairs
29 September 2008
Peace and security: “Ethiopia has consistently helped promote peace and stability in our region. We have no doubt that sustainable development will only be possible with durable peace and security.”
Terrorism and multilateralism: “Terrorism is a scourge that impedes peace and development in any part of the world. As its occurrence in any form threatens global security at large, Ethiopia believes that it should be addressed collectively. In this regard, we attach great significance to the value of dialogue among civilizations to build a culture to enable us to create closer understanding among nations, all nations.”
Multilateralism: “Ethiopia remains committed, Mr. President, to the UN reform process and its revitalization. This is critical for the credibility of the UN and for the future of multilateralism. As a founding member of the UN, Ethiopia will always remain loyal to its purposes and principles. The UN is the custodian of multilateral diplomacy. At no time since the Second World War has multilateralism and genuine co-operation been as critical as it is today. This is why we continue to need the UN as never before. It is a body that remains vital for the future of us all, developing and developed countries, alike.”
European Union
H.E. Mr. Nicolas Sarkozy, President of the French Republic
23 September 2008
Iran's nuclear programme: “Europe is saying to Iran that it respects that country, that Iran has the right to nuclear energy and that we will explore all avenues of dialogue. But it is saying to Iran with the same sincerity that it cannot accept a nuclear-armed Iran which would endanger the peace and stability of an entire region, nor can it tolerate Iran calling for the destruction of the State of Israel.”
Peace: “Europe does not want war. It does not want a war of civilizations. It does not want a war of religion. It does not want a cold war. Europe wants peace, and peace is always possible when one truly wants it.”
Terrorism: “...to fight terrorism, we cannot wait.”
Terrorism: “Europe is telling Israel ... that we will always be at Israel’s side to fight terrorism.”
Terrorism: “Europe is saying to Afghanistan that it will continue to stand by that country’s side, that it will not permit the Taliban allied with al Qaeda again to take a people hostage and turn an entire country into a terrorist base!”
Fiji
H.E. Mr. Commodore Josaia V. Bainimarama, Prime Minister and Commander of the Military Forces of the Republic of the Fiji Islands
26 September 2008
No relevant references.
Finland
H.E. Ms. Tarja Halonen, President
23 September 2008
War: “Unfortunately, armed conflicts are still a reality all over the world. Too often, we—the international community—are unable to agree on a common response. Too often, people affected by poverty and conflicts are let down.”
Peace and security: “Today and in this room, it is once again time to pledge our joint commitment to the ideas and values of the United Nations. The Charter calls us ‘to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security.’ While the concept of security has changed and become broader, it is upon us to follow this call of the Charter and translate it into action.”
France
H.E. Mr. Nicolas Sarkozy, President
23 September 2008
Iran's nuclear programme: “Europe is saying to Iran that it respects that country, that Iran has the right to nuclear energy and that we will explore all avenues of dialogue. But it is saying to Iran with the same sincerity that it cannot accept a nuclear-armed Iran which would endanger the peace and stability of an entire region, nor can it tolerate Iran calling for the destruction of the State of Israel.”
Peace: “Europe does not want war. It does not want a war of civilizations. It does not want a war of religion. It does not want a cold war. Europe wants peace, and peace is always possible when one truly wants it.”
Terrorism: “...to fight terrorism, we cannot wait.”
Terrorism: “Europe is telling Israel ... that we will always be at Israel’s side to fight terrorism.”
Terrorism: “Europe is saying to Afghanistan that it will continue to stand by that country’s side, that it will not permit the Taliban allied with al Qaeda again to take a people hostage and turn an entire country into a terrorist base!”
Gabon
H.E. Mr. Didjob Divungi Di Ndinge, Vice-President
23 September 2008
Unofficial translation by WILPF staff.
No relevant references.
Gambia
H.E. Mr. Omar A. Touray, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Multilateralism: “The legitimacy of multilateralism, that lies at the core of United Nations system, is being increasingly questioned. Yes, with the launching of the former Secretary-General report, ‘In Larger Freedom; Towards Development, Security and Human Rights for All’, a lot of reforms are taking place and are still taking place. However, the question is, ‘Is it enough’?”
Peace: “One of the cornerstones of The Gambia’s foreign policy is the pursuit of peace and security. As a peace loving people, it is our constant desire to contribute towards the search for lasting peace wherever there is conflict. It is for these reasons that Gambia actively participates in peace missions and also promotes good neighborliness, friendship and cooperation throughout Africa and beyond. I must register my satisfaction at the peace dividends that are today being reaped across Africa, thanks to the commitment of African leaders to finding solutions to African conflicts. We are witnessing the resurgence of hope in Sierra Leone and Liberia after many years of consolidation of peace and security. It is my delegation’s fervent hope that the international community will not relent in extending to them all the financial, technical and material support they require to turn around their societies for the better.”
Ghana
H.E. Mr. John Agyekum, President
24 September 2008
Terrorism: “Examples of the challenges which practically all previous speakers have alluded to, include ... the massive trafficking in drugs and weapons; and the spate of harrowing acts of terrorism in many parts of the world.”
Multilateralism: “It is by [the United Nations] that the world will eventually come by peace, stability and prosperity, after the menacing flux that engulfs all of us now.”
Georgia
H.E. Mr. Mikheil Saakashvili, President
23 September 2008
Security and conflict: “I come to you as the representative of one of those places, the country of Georgia, a land of fewer than 5 million, that last month was invaded by our neighbor. Despite, our small size, the legal, moral, political and security implications raised by that invasion could not be larger in consequence. Indeed, those issues cut through to the heart of the UN’s founding charter. The principles enshrined in that charter included the inviolability of sovereign borders; the sanctity of human rights; the supremacy of international law; and the global rejection of armed aggression.”
Armed aggression: “The General Assembly, therefore, faces a General Challenge. We are called upon not just to respond to the particular question of one instance of armed aggression in a single place—but to define our attitude toward armed aggression in all places.”
Georgia also commented extensively on the recent conflict in South Ossetia.
Germany
H.E. Mr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Deputy Federal Chancellor and Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2008
Multilateralism: “The end of the East-West confrontation in the early nineties seemed to mark the dawn of a new age of effective multilateralism, while the United Nations seemed to be on the threshold of a great renaissance. Disillusionment has now set in—quicker and more profoundly than we had feared.... The world is clearly searching for a ‘new order’; and multilateralism does not always seem to be the first choice in this quest.”
Multilateralism and terrorism: “It is now generally accepted that we can only master the new challengs of the 21st century such as ... terrorism, if we act together.”
Security and terrorism: “It is clear to us that without security Afghanistan will not, and indeed cannot, develop. Equally, however, we need economic development in order to improve the security situation and to encourage people to reject fundamentalism and terror.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “An Iran armed with nuclear weapons would pose a threat to security in the Middle East and trigger off a nuclear arms race. Therefore, Iran must put its cards on the table. We have made our offer. The Iranian side’s delaying tactics must not exhaust the patience of the international community. We expect a clear signal from Iran indicating its willingness to comply with the international community’s demands and build confidence.”
Multilateralism: “East against West, North against South: this is yesterday’s thinking. It no longer has a place in today’s world. For to resolve the problems of today and tomorrow, we all need more partners and not more opponents. The 21st century is the first in which we can only resolve problems if we work together.”
Disarmament: “The same [multilateralism] applies to disarmament policy. Only a global responsibility partnership can achieve lasting results.”
Nuclear fuel cycle and nuclear weapons: “The dangerous trend of ever more countries striving to gain access to nuclear technology or even to build nuclear weapons must be stopped. My proposal on the multilateralization of the fuel cycle showed how the risks involved can be minimized.”
CTBT: “Futhermore, I call upon all states to sign the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, the CTBT. For its entry into force would mean a huge security gain.”
Greece
H.E. Ms. Dora Bakoyannis, Foreign Minister
27 September 2008
Terrorism: “Along with protecting the weak and vulnerable, the U.N. has the responsibility to act forcefully to protect the world from the kind of fanaticism and extremism that cripple any social program. Terrorism poses a major threat to the security of our countries, to the stability of our democratic societies and to the rights and freedoms of our citizens. Around the world, whether in Afghanistan or Pakistan, Iraq or Yemen, the international community must show its strong commitment to combating terrorism while protecting human rights and the rule of law.”
Grenada
H.E. Mr. Tillman Thomas, Prime Minister
26 September 2008
Peace: “We humbly offer our government as an example of peace and reconciliation in action. We bring together people committed to service notwithstanding our politically turbulent historical background. We stand to day as proof that peace and reconciliation are possible, that our collective hope for those world regions where brothers fight brothers, and people die needlessly, is not a fanciful or vain hope, it is a valid hope that can be realized.”
Nuclear waste: “Indeed, Grenada and other Caribbean Member States derive tremendous economic benefits from these pristine waters, which are threatened by trans-shipment of nuclear waste and other hazardous materials.”
Terrorism: “No one in the developed world can deny the value of a small country like Grenada in the expansion of democracy and the fight against terrorism.”
Multilateralism: “I can assure you that Grenada intends to pursue its external relations based on the principle of mutual respect. Thus, we will be an active participant in multilateral debates on current issues.”
Terrorism: “Grenada maintains its staunch and unwavering stance in the fight against terrorism, illicit drugs, weapons and human trafficking.”
Terrorism: “Grenada strongly condemns all violent acts by those who are bent on creating chaos and panic in different regions around the world and thus supports all efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.”
Terrorism: “Additionally, Grenada is committed to the full implementation of the recommendations adopted by the Caribbean financial Task Force to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.”
Guatemala
H.E. Mr Álvaro Colom Caballeros, President
24 September 2008
Multilateralism: “My presence barely a few months after having assumed the Presidency of my country underlines our commitment with the United Nations and with multilateralism.”
Multilateralism: “It is evident that in a world changing at an astonishing speed we need to think permanently of adapting the United Nations to address not only secular challenges but also emerging ones.… The General Assembly is the appropriate place where we can exchange views on the nature of the problems we face and offer guidance on how to address them; down the road, the operational arms of the Organization an its specialized agencies must help member states in implementing concrete actions.... We recognize the imperative of adapting the Organization to present circumstances in the world, at the level of the intergovernmental for a – particularly the Security Council – and at the level of the Secretariat.”
Terrorism: “The world suffers the ravages of terrorism and organized crime, including narco-activity. In this regard, my Government is adding its part to the global combat against these ills, adopting measures that seek not only to dispose of effective and refined security forces for this purpose, but also to strike against organized crime, the framework of the rule of law and justice. The United Nations joins us in this arduous task through the International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG), whose valuable contribution I sincerely appreciate.”
Security: “However, the threats to security are also of another type. Social inequality, hunger, the high price of food, the use of the latter to produce bio-fuels, and global warming, all threaten security, stability, governance and in the case of climate change, even the future of the planet.”
Guinea
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Tidiane Souare, Prime Minister
26 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Guniea Bassau
H.E. Mr. João Bernardo Vieira, President of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau
25 September 2008
Peace and multilateralism: “We support the efforts of the Secretary General with the view to increasing the capacity of our organization in the maintenance of peace, in addressing global issues and as well as his proposal to introduce in the Secretariat in particular new working methods based not only in the recognition of individuals competence but also putting emphases on team work.”
Multilateralism: “The international Community must react to all these challenges. But, how can we succeed without close cooperation among all the countries of the world? ... Our main goals should be to foster dialog in all occasions and circumstances. Dialog among countries, Peoples, Cultures, Religions and Civilizations of the world.... It is only through dialog that we will be able to identify our differences and find solutions of common interest.... Dialog and negotiations at the international level to prevent and solve conflicts like in the Middle East and to Preserve the Lives of Human Being in danger, in Darfur and in Somalia for example.”
Multilateralism: “Although it is confronted with complex international situation the international community has ways of facing these challenges. However, a real political will is needed from ail of us. The United Nations can play even a more decisive roll in the prevention and resolution of conflicts, in protecting our planets and in creating better living conditions for millions of people.”
Guyana
H.E. Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, President
23 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Guyana remains committed to the principle of multilateralism and to the principles and purposes of the United Nations Charter. Especially sacrosanct for us is the inviolability of and the respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all Member States and the resolution of disputes by peaceful means.”
Multilateralism: “We must each, as countries approaching the floor to speak ... be bold enough to embark on a project to achieve real change to the multilateral system. This change must be based on mandates that are relevant, institutions that are accountable, and a context that is increasingly reflective of integration and interconnectedness.
“This brings me to the matter of the much-needed reform of our multilateral institutions. This matter has been on the agenda for some time, but it would be fair to say that it has progressed slowly and its results have been few and difficult to observe. In the case of the reform of the international financial institutions, I fear that much of this reform is driven not out of a need to respond to current world reality but out of fear that sovereign wealth funds, regional financial arrangements, and new bilateral sources of development financing would make some organisations obsolete. Instead, the reform agenda has to be driven by what is necessary for good global governance and by the need for steady and demonstrable improvement in the lives of all of the peoples of the world.
“I believe that the reforms must be pursued along certain pre-defined principles. Firstly, the institutions must have new mandates that are relevant to current circumstances, and they must have at their disposal tools to discharge these mandates effectively. Secondly, the institutions must have legitimacy and be reflective of equitable representation of their membership. Thirdly, in the discharge of their functions, they must demonstrate flexibility and responsiveness. And, fourthly, they must display the highest standards
of accountability and transparency.
“In addition, more needs to be done to democratise the institutions, align the interests of the management and staff with those of the countries they serve, and make them more accountable to the membership. In like manner, a more democratic and reformed United Nations Organisation will be better placed to play a central role in the multilateral system to serve In the interest of the international community as a whole, whether in relation to its peace and security mandates, the protection of fundamental rights, or to the promotion of development.”
Haiti
H.E. Mr. René Garcia Préval, President
26 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Holy See
H.E. Archbishop Celestino Migliore, Chairperson of the Delegation
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “The ‘we the peoples’ who formed the United Nations conceived the responsibility to protect to serve as the core basis for the United Nations. The founding leaders believed that the responsibility to protect would consist not primarily in the use of force to restore peace and human rights, but above all, in States coming together to detect and denounce the early symptoms of every kind of crisis and mobilize the attention of governments, civil society and public opinion to find the causes and offer solutions.”
Honduras
H.E. Mr. José Manuel Zelaya Rosales, President
24 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Hungary
H.E. Ms. Kinga Göncz, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Our strategy, as well as our policies and actions demonstrate our commitment to uphold the rule of international law, to give priority to an effective multilateralism, to spread the culture of cooperation and peaceful settlement of international disputes, and to work towards preserving a liveable and sustainable environment for future generations.”
Disarmament and non-proliferation: “Hungary’s geographic position, as well as our expertise in ... disarmament and non-proliferation will serve as a good basis for our effective contribution to the work of this organization.”
Terrorism: “In the field of counter terrorism, the full and earliest implementation of the UN Counter-Terrorism Strategy is the most important outstanding issue, where the main responsibility is on the member states. The conclusion of the Comprehensive Convention on international terrorism also remains a high priority for the Republic of Hungary, and we fully support the work of the Ad Hoc Committee. We hope that during the sixty-third session we will be able to finalize the drafting of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “The nuclear programme of Iran continues to be a matter of serious concern for my Government. Iran has failed to provide the international community with credible assurances whether its nuclear projects are in line with its international obligations. We deeply regret that the leadership of Iran has refused to abide with relevant UN Security Council resolutions. Only full and unconditional compliance by the demand to suspend its enrichment related and reprocessing activities can pave the way for re-establishing confidence in the peaceful nature of the Iranian nuclear programme and open up prospects for intensified economic and political cooperation. We hope that Iran will change its present course of confrontation and opt for a constructive dialogue with its partners.”
Iceland
H.E. Mr. Geir H. Haarde, Prime Minister of the Republic of Iceland
26 September 2008
Multilateralism: “It is perhaps an oversimplification to speak of a contest between multilateralism and unilateralism in international affairs. These different approaches frequently overlap, but it is clear that when an effective multilateral option is available, it will always be the preferred choice for most countries, especially smaller countries like mine. This should inspire us to make the UN a forum which can deliver substantive results, in accordance with international law, in order to ensure that unilateral actions on issues of major significance become less likely.”
Multilateralism: “Above all, the Nordic countries have shown unwavering commitment to multilateral cooperation and the rule of law. If elected as a member of the UN Security Council, Iceland will continue in this strong tradition.”
India
H.E. Mr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister
26 September 2008
Multilateralism: “The United Nations is the embodiment of our faith in the benefits of collective action and of multilateral approaches in resolving global issues.”
US-India Deal, nuclear energy, non-proliferation, disarmament: “The opening of international civil nuclear cooperation with India will have a positive impact on global energy security and on efforts to combat climate change. This is a vindication of India's impeccable record on non-proliferation and to our longstanding commitment to nuclear disarmament that is global, universal and non-discriminatory in nature. The blueprint for this was spelt out by Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in this very august assembly twenty years ago.”
Nuclear disarmament: “I reiterate India’s proposal for a Nuclear Weapons Convention prohibiting the development, production, stockpiling and use of nuclear weapons and providing for their complete elimination within a specified time frame.”
Terrorism: “The growing assertion of separate identities and ethnic, cultural and religious intolerance threatens our developmental efforts and our peace and stability. It is vital that we strengthen international cooperation to combat terrorism and to bring the perpetrators, organisers, financers and sponsors of terrorism to justice. We should conclude expeditiously the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.”
Multilateralism: “The United Nations is a living symbol of pluralism. It has weathered many storms. It is the vehicle through which our combined will and efforts to address global challenges must be articulated and implemented. Unless we rise to the task, we would bequeath to succeeding generations a world of diminishing prospects.”
Indonesia
H.E. Mr. N. Hassan Wirajuda, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Militarism and military spending: “Even as we face the challenges of global warming in the physical world, we must also deal with the reality of a global chill in the politico-security field. Symptoms of that chill are the military tensions that have taken place in Eastern Europe. There is also a new arms race. There is more military spending now than at the end of the Cold War. Moreover, the conflict and tension of a year ago are still with us.”
North Korea’s nuclear programme: “North Korea, the subject of so much uncertainty today, is backsliding from its commitment to dismantle its nuclear weapon programme.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “The nuclear issue in Iran remains unresolved.”
Multilateralism: “The sovereignty of states must be preserved if there is to be a democratic spirit in international relations. This is essential—because without democracy, a world organization like the United Nations cannot be effective. Indeed, the failure of the Security Council to come to grips with challenges to global security is due largely to the fact that it is not democratic enough.”
Iran
H.E. Mr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, President
23 September 2008
Disarmament: “The time has come for the IAEA to present a clear report to the international community on its monitoring of the disarmament of these nuclear powers and their nuclear activities, and for a disarmament committee to be established by independent states to monitor the disarmament of these nuclear powers.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “With regard to Iran’s peaceful nuclear program, despite the inalienable right of all nations including the Iranian nation, in producing nuclear fuel for peaceful purposes, and despite such facts as the transparency of all Iranian activities and our country’s full cooperation with the inspectors of the IAEA and the Agency’s repeated confirmation of the fact that Iran’s activities are peaceful, a few bullying powers have sought to put hurdles in the way of peaceful nuclear activities of the Iranian nation by exerting political and economic pressures against Iran, and also through threatening and pressuring the IAEA. These are the same powers that produce new generations of lethal nuclear arms and possess stockpiles of nuclear weapons that no international organization is monitoring; and, the tragedies of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were perpetrated by one of them.
“Indeed, they are not against weapons, but they oppose other nations’ progress, and tend to monopolize technologies and to use those monopolies in order to impose their will on other nations. But it is very natural that the great Iranian people, with their trust in God, and with determination and steadfastness and with the support of its friends, will resist the bullying and has defended and will continue to defend its rights. The Iranian nation is for dialogue. But it has not accepted and will not accept illegal demands.”
Nuclear weapons, WMD, missile defense: “The never-ending arms race and the proliferation and stockpiling of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction and the threats to use them, and the establishment of missile defense systems, have made the situation unstable.”
Iraq
H.E. Mr. Jalal Talabani, President
25 September 2008
Terrorism: “While the Iraqi people are building a new federal state based on democracy, pluralism, and the peaceful distribution of power, they have, been subjected to, and affected by, a series of terrorist acts which target all Iraqis be they Arabs, Kurds, Turkmens and Kildo Assyrian that attempted to ignite sectarian strife and undermine the political process and stability of the country, while aiming to return Iraq to the days of tyranny, backwardness, oppression, and dictatorship.
“Terrorism is a blind danger that threatens everyone. At a time when the Iraqi people call upon the representatives of the elected national government to combat its remnants, they call upon the international community, and in particular neighboring countries, to support Iraq in its effort to combat violence and terrorism, all while promoting peace, security, and stability. This positively impacts the stability and security of the region, the interests of its peoples, and the international community as a whole.
“These acts of terrorism, committed by the enemies of freedom will not discourage our people from establishing a new democratic experience, which our people paid a heavy price for. Our position requires the support and assistance from countries around the world to be able to build a modern nation which ensures justice, equality, the strengthening of the rule of law, the respect for human rights, and women’s participation in all spheres of life.
“The Iraqi Government has relentless determination towards imposing the rule of law throughout Iraq, disarming militias, fighting sectarian conflict, and building state institutions on the basis of nationalism.”
Security: “Iraq no longer threatens international peace and security, and therefore calls upon the international community to take steps towards removing Iraq from Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, and ending settling of all actions taken by the Security Council through its resolution based on Chapter VII, including the issue of compensation.”
Terrorism, peace, security, multilateralism: “Three extensive conferences were held for Iraq’s neighboring countries, with the most recent in Kuwait in April 2008. The conferences sought to continue the coordination and cooperation in supporting the efforts of the Iraqi Government to restore peace and stability and achieve prosperity. The conferences also promoted the ongoing dialogue about national reconciliation, the fight against terrorism, strengthening the rule of law, increasing political participation, and provided nations with and opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to Iraq’s territorial integrity, unity, full sovereignty and independence, without interfering in its internal affairs, as well as affirming its commitment to implement these promises.”
Chemical weapons, terrorism, nuclear testing: “Iraq is also planning, within the priorities of its foreign policies, for the return to the international community by actively participating in meetings and conferences of the United Nations, its agencies and offices in all international issues. Iraq signed a number of UN conventions such as the conventions of the prohibition of chemical weapons and the treaty banning nuclear tests, and about to join special agreements and protocols against terrorism, amongst others.”
WMD Free Zone in the Middle East: “In order to promote peace and security in the region and in the world, we call for making the Middle East a region free of weapons of mass destruction.”
Multilateralism: “Achieving stability and prosperity demands strengthening the scope of cooperation between all nations of the world while working to establish proportionate relations between countries, in addition to the development of a global system to become more justified to assist poor and developing countries and increase the support from rich countries in order to enhance development programs in poor and developing countries.”
Ireland
H. E. Mr. Micheál Martin, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ireland
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “In this new century, when we speak of the ‘international community’, it cannot be as a vague platitude or as a faceless scapgoat. Global challenges confront us—climate change, economic turbulence, food and energy security, HIV/AIDS and terrorism among them. We can either be an international community passively divided and at the mercy of those forces, or we can be a community in the true sense—of active participants united by our sense of mutual solidarity, our common sense of justice, our common desire for a better and peaceful future and a shared commitment to international law and to human rights of all. The United Nations is the indispensable framework for realising the potential of that community, as it has shown again and again. Ireland is proud to have played its distinctive part in that history and we are absolutely committed to playing a full part in its future.”
Disarmament and nuclear weapons: “Creating a secure and stable world demands effective arms control and disarmament, and the elimination of nuclear weapons.”
Cluster munitions: “Ireland was very proud last May to hold the Diplomatic Conference that delivered the ‘Cluster Munitions Convention’—an historic agreement to ban the production and use of these pernicious instruments of war. The Convention is strong and ambitious. Each state party undertakes never, in any circumstances, to use, develop, produce, acquire, stockpile, retain or transfer cluster munitions, or to assist any other party in doing so. It is comprehensive and provides for no exceptions. It sets new standards for assistance to victims and also, importantly, for clearing affected areas.
“I would, once again, like to express the deep appreciation of my Government for the constructive approach taken by Member States. Without it, such a significant step forward could not have been taken. The Convention will open for signature in Oslo in December, and Ireland will be among the first signatories. I strongly urge all Governments to do likewise.”
Cluster munitions: “Ireland has watched with great distress the recent conflict in Georgia, including the evidence of the use of cluster munitions against civilian populations.”
Multilateralism: “The vision of all our peoples, of a peaceful and secure world, with justice, human rights and dignity for all, can be realised only in cooperation with others of like mind. For Ireland’s part, we are determined not to be a passive member of this formal community of nations.”
Multilateralism: “It is only by such a commitment, by each of us and through this body, that we can make the international community more than the sum of its parts, more than the sum of its fears, and instead make it what it was meant to be when the United Nations was established—the sum of all our hopes.”
Israel
H.E. Mr. Shimon Peres, President
24 September 2008
Peace: “Israel turned military victories to a peace process, knowing that the cost of life renders imperfect peace superior to perfect victories.”
Peace: “With the Palestinians, we negotiate full peace. Both parties agreed to building a Palestinian State side by side with Israel, living in peace, security and respect. We tried to conclude negotiations this year. It will take longer. But, I believe it can be accomplished within the next year.... Gaps have been narrowed through negotiations. Particularly the territorial ones. But, peace is not just a matter of territorial compromise. Rogue politics reject peace even where territorial dispute was resolved.”
Peace: “Israel, on its part, shall continue to seek peace. We suggest immediate peace with Lebanon. Israeli prime ministers indicated to Syria that for peace, we are ready to explore a comprehensive compromise.”
Peace: “Israelis and Arabs are marching towards peace.”
Iran's nuclear programme: “Iran continues to develop enriched uranium and long range missiles.... Tehran combines long range missiles and short range minds.”
Terrorism: “Terrorism did not solve a single problem. It never has, and never will. They will make the world ungovernable. If small groups of violent killers are allowed to threaten innocent masses, the world will be without order or security.”
Italy
H.E. Mr. Franco Frattini, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2008
Terrorism, nuclear proliferation, and security: “Terrorism and nuclear proliferation threaten our security.”
Multilateralism: “These global challenges demand a timely political response. A national response would be inadequate and illusory. The right response can only be global and cooperative. A dramatic new vision of global governance for the 21" century requires rules that all nations can embrace. A new vision based on three principles: inclusiveness, effectiveness and shared responsibility.”
Nuclear energy: “The fight against climate change is closely connected to energy security. We need to promote greater energy cooperation at the global level. We need to promote solutions that reconcile the need for secure supplies with sustainable energy policies, energy efficiency, and clean energy technologies. We need to promote research and development of alternative fuels sources, including renewable and nuclear energy.”
Multilateralism, terrorism, WMD: “Effective multilateral cooperation built on shared responsibility is vital to tackling the main threats to our safety and security, including terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.”
Terrorism: “Our vigilance against terrorism must remain high and our international cooperation intense. In the next few years we should work together on a new global pact against terrorism to be enacted in 2011 on die tenth anniversary of the tragic events of September 11. The protection of human rights and rule of law must underpin our action.”
Non-proliferation, nuclear weapons, Iran's nuclear programme: “The fight against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is at the center of our international commitment. In preparation for the NPT Review Conference of 20 10, Italy is ready to do its part to strengthen the Non-Proliferation Treaty, which is of fundamental importance to preventing and countering proliferation and laying the foundations for a world free of nuclear weapons. Yet we must also maintain cooperation on the peaceful use of nuclear technology, as expressly provided for by the Treaty. We thus call upon the Iranian Government to show the highest sense of responsibility by promptly meeting the conditions for a normal negotiation to reassure the international community and the countries of the region.”
Jamaica
H.E. Mr. Bruce Golding, Prime Minister
26 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Jamaica is concerned that political instability in many parts of the world, often fueled by extremism and intolerance, continues to threaten regional and international peace and security. They are neither limited in scope nor confined to national borders. Resolving these conflicts requires effective diplomacy and global cooperation and the United Nations must continue to use its good offices to secure just and peaceful settlements.”
Terrorism, nuclear weapons, WMD, small arms and light weapons, ATT: “Out intense focus on combating terrorism, transnational organized crime, elimination of nuclear arms and other weapons of mass destruction, must not marginalize the need for decisive action to curb illicit trade in small arms which facilitate internal violence in many of our countries and result in high levels of homicides. Jamaica supports the establishment of an arms trade treaty to impose strict controls on the illegal trade in small arms and ammunition.”
Japan
H.E. Mr. Taro Aso, Prime Minister of Japan
26 September 2008
Nuclear weapons and disarmament: “The government of Japan is currently preparing to submit a draft resolution on the total elimination of nuclear weapons. I believe that there is no one who questions the wholehearted commitment of the Japanese people to this issue.”
Terrorism: “And speaking of July 7, this date conjures up abhorrent memories in the United Kingdom. We, the delegates assembled here, have become newly incensed at the atrocity of the terrorist attack that took place in Islamabad five days ago. It has also turned out to be difficult to find the path towards improving the situation in Afghanistan. There has been no change whatsoever to the fact that terrorism constitutes the greatest threat to the peace and prosperity of the world.
“I believe that the international community must continue to be engaged in tenacious efforts to combat terrorism. Japan has from the start been committed to reconstruction assistance to Afghanistan and we have maintained our refueling activities in the Indian Ocean. I would like to state here that Japan will continue into the future to stand side by side with the international community and participate proactively in the fight against terrorism.”
North Korea’s nuclear programme: “Among outstanding issues in the vicinity of Japan, it goes without saying that the most pressing are those concerning North Korea.... Regarding its pledge to abandon its nuclear programmes, it is widely known that recently there has been conspicuous lack of progress. In parallel with the actions that North Korea would take, I am prepared to take actions towards the resolution of the outstanding issues of concern between Japan and North Korea and the settlement of the unfortunate past between us, moving Japan-North Korea relations forward. What we await is action by North Korea. I will also continue to pursue the abandonment of North Korea’s nuclear capabilities and its nuclear weapons through the framework of the Six-Party Talks.”
Multilateralism: “That leads me to say that China and the Republic of Korea are each important partners for Japan and countries with which Japan must seek to increase mutual benefits and shared interests. Japan must promote multilayered cooperation with both of these countries as well as with ASEAN. Together, we must enhance the peace and prosperity of the East Asian region, and beyond, the world peace and prosperity.”
Peace: “Even though they have suffered setbacks at times, the citizens of Japan, who have so vigorously pursued the building of the economy, have been guided by a single philosophy until the present day, that peace and happiness are most certainly within our grasp through the pursuit of economic prosperity and democracy.”
Jordan
H.E. M. Salah Bashir, Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2008
Militarism and terrorism: “I would like to add to that the challenges, which have imposed upon us by the continuation of the military occupation and denying people the right to their self-determination and the right to free expression of its identity, and the growing crisis of conflict between cultures, as well as the scourge of international terrorism and extremism.”
Multilateralism: “The most important work being carried out by the United Nations for our region, the Middle East, is that it was and still is the custodian of the international law. It governs the international relations and it is the standard by which we measure progress made in our international community on one hand, and forms the objective approach of maintaining international peace and security, on the other hand.”
WMD Free Zone in the Middle East: “Making the Middle East, a zone free from weapons of mass destruction is a prerequisite to ensure peace and stability in the region. Because of our belief in the high preventive goals of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and for the sake of non-proliferation of nuclear weapons in our region, like all the countries of the region, with the exception of Israel, we acceded to this Treaty, which has been in force since 1970. On this basis, we call upon the international community and the influential states in the world to ensure the accession of all the countries of the region to this International Treaty. It is also important to strengthen international monitoring mechanisms to ensure that the Middle East is a zone free from nuclear weapons and in order not to give a pretext to the states have not yet acceded to continue on its nuclear military programmes.”
Iran’s nuclear programme, nuclear energy: “Concerning the Iranian nuclear issue, we believe that every nation should exercise its right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy. We in Jordan, strongly call for a peaceful solution to this issue.”
Security: “Jordan attaches importance to promoting security and stability in the Arab Gulf area, in accordance with principles of international legitimacy, good neighborliness and non-interference in the internal affairs of other States. We welcome any effective contribution by the Arab States in any endeavour would maintain undiminished security and the stability of the Arab region.”
Terrorism: “Jordan, like the whole area, suffered from the scourge of terrorism. This has made us more vigilant and more determined to combat terrorism effectively in order to eradicate it. Jordan upholds international counter-terrorism conventions and values the international cooperation in this area. In addition, it takes the necessary measures at the national level, including, legislative measures to combat this scourge effectively to support the international efforts in the area of combating terrorism.”
Kazakhstan
H.E. Mr. Marat Tazhin, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Disarmament, non-proliferation, WMD, nuclear weapons, arms race: “Despite the efforts being undertaken, the world is not becoming a safer place. We still have to admit that there is no international consensus on issues of disarmament and nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Paradoxically, the role of the nuclear factor as an element of global politics does not decrease but on the contrary, becomes even more and more important. The world is on the threshold of another round of the arms race at a higher technological level.
“As known, history may repeat itself, if we do not properly learn its lessons. Therefore, nuclear disarmament and enhanced non-proliferation regimes should unconditionally become a priority for all. Kazakhstan, the country that voluntarily relinquished the fourth largest nuclear arsenal, believes that it is absolutely imperative to develop new mechanisms that would allow adapting the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons to the new realities.”
CTBT: “We call on Member States to speedily finalize necessary procedures, so that the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty could enter into force and its verification mechanism could be strengthened. This is exactly the purpose of an Integrated Field Experiment on On-site Inspections that is being currently conducted in our country at the former Semipalatinsk nuclear testing ground.”
Outer space, conventional weapons, small arms and light weapons: “We wholeheartedly support the initiative regarding the adoption of a treaty on prevention of the arms race in outer space, as well as measures against illicit trafficking of conventional arms, including those that allow effective monitoring of compliance with the UN embargoes and the implementation of the programme of action in the area of small arms.”
Terrorism and nuclear weapons: “The crisis of non-proliferation regimes has brought about a real threat of terrorists getting hold of nuclear weapons. Kazakhstan actively participates in the Global Initiative to Combat the Acts of Nuclear Terrorism, and, in this regard hosted this year the Atom-Antiterror exercises and an international conference on the physical protection of nuclear material.”
Terrorism: “Combating international terrorism remains a global problem, which requires the unity and determination of the entire international community. Having signed all universal conventions in this field, Kazakhstan operates actively within the frameworks of regional antiterrorist structures.
“We believe that further improvement of the international legal norms on fighting terrorism and speedy adoption of a comprehensive convention on international terrorism will fully serve the interests of all Member States.
“The situation in Afghanistan remains a matter of grave concern. From the outset, Kazakhstan provides all necessary support to the international anti-terrorist coalition operating in this country with the approval of the UN Security Council.”
Kenya
H.E. Mr. Mwai Kibaki, President
23 September 2008
Security: “Indeed, the challenge of attaining democratic and inclusive elected governments is at the core of prevailing conflicts and insecurity in many parts of Africa.”
Security: “Indeed, the rapid increase in oil prices is hurting developing countries the most, and does not augur well for international peace and security.”
Peace and security: “With regard to the Great Lakes, tremendous progress has been made in promoting peace, while reducing conflict in the region. The conclusion of the Pact on Security, Stability and Development in the region has given impetus to our efforts.”
Security and multilateralism: “We have over the years discussed the need for a more effective and accountable United Nations that will enable us to address the emerging and persistent global challenges such as climate change, international security, poverty, conflicts and economic disparities.”
Multilateralism: “I wish to note that the challenges facing us today, such as the global food crisis, attaining the MDGs, and climate change more than ever before require coordinated global and multilateral cooperation. A more effective and accountable United Nations is therefore needed to meet and overcome these challenges.”
Kiribati
H.E. Mr Anote Tong, President
25 September 2008
Terrorism: “We, in the pacific, have been strong supporters of the fight against terrorism. We now turn to those we have partnered in the fight against terrorism to partner us in our fight against climate change.”
Multilateralism: “The challenges we face are global in nature and thus require global solutions. We call upon the UN to take the lead in addressing these challenges, especially in funding, supporting and facilitating the implementation of practical solutions to the security challenges that threaten the very existence of peoples and nations, which in turn pose a threat to international peace and security.”
Kuwait
H.E. Mr. Sheikah Nasser, Prime Minister
25 September 2008
Nuclear Energy and Iran: “While the State of Kuwait, stresses the right of all states to produce, develop, use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes within the framework of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, it calls upon the Islamic Republic of Iran to continue its cooperation, with transparency, with the International Atomic Energy Agency in order to dispel the fears doubts about the nature of its nuclear program, also to address all outstanding issues.”
Multilateralism, security, terrorism, and WMD: “These challenges, in addition to security challenges, such as terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and the violation of human rights, pose a serious threat to international peace and security, meeting them require prompt, collective, united and firm action under the umbrella of the United Nations.”
WMD and nuclear weapons: “It calls upon the international community to continue its efforts to seek a peaceful solution which would spare our Region any crisis or wars which could lead to undermining its security and stability, also to deal seriously and without favouritism with Israel, the only country in the region not party to the NPT, to subject all of its nuclear facilities under the Safeguard Regime of the IAEA. This would pave the way for declaring the Middle East a region free form all kinds of weapons of mass destruction.”
Kyrgyzstan
H. E. Mr. Nur Uulu Dosbol, State Secretary
29 September 2008
Awaiting translation.
Lao People’s Democratic Republic
H. E. M. Thongloun Sisoulith, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “The Lao PDR is of the belief that the United Nations remains an important and preeminent forum for addressing issues relating to international cooperation for economic development, peace and security, and human rights and the rule of law, based on dialogue, cooperation and consensus-building amongst States. For over half a century, the UN has played a crucial role in maintaining international peace and security and promoting the socio-economic advancement of member States, especially developing countries.”
Peace: “The Secretary-General’s personal dedicated engagement for the cause of peace as well as his endeavours in search for solutions to the three global crises of finance, fuel and food deserve special recognition.”
Disarmament, nuclear weapons, non-proliferation: “The current difficult and complex situation in the field of disarmament continues to be a cause of concern. We recognize the threat posed by the permanent existence of nuclear weapons and the possible use or threat to use them. It is hence incumbent upon the nuclear States to honour their unequivocal commitment to work towards the total elimination of nuclear weapons. Renewed efforts are needed to resolve the impasse in achieving nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation in all its aspects.”
Peace: “The goal of achieving peace and prosperity remains the highest priority of the international community. Yet, this goal remains impeded by interstate conflict, terror, and unlawful unilateral sanctions and interventions.”
Peace: “I can not conclude without reaffirming that development remains central and must come first for the intertwined peace and human rights to succeed. Therefore the full, timely and effective implementation of the outcomes of the major UN Summits and Conferences is indispensable. The Lao PDR reiterates its unshakable commitment to continued full cooperation with the international community in pursuit of a world free from fear and want, rooted in a new, just and equitable order.”
Latvia
H.E. Mr. Valdis Zatlers, President of the Republic of Latvia
24 September 2008
Security: “Today I will start by addressing the security situation of the world. During the past year the international community has witnessed a rise in understanding of frozen conflicts. Frozen does not mean solved. It means these conflicts can reemerge. Therefore I am particularly glad that of significant improvements in solving long-lasting conflicts in some regions.”
Peace: “Prospects of peace and stability in the Middle East affect the whole world. Latvia hopes that the peace negotiations between the Israeli Government and the Palestinian Authority will bring results. We hope that the parties will use the window of opportunity to conclude the Peace Agreement by the end of 2008.”
Multilateralism: “Effective multilateralism requires combining greater awareness of the nature of risks we face with contemporary understanding of how international politics are forged today. International organizations are only one part of our global system—and often this parties most resistant to change. It is regrettable that enthusiasm and momentum generated during the World Summit 2005 in reforming this universal international body has somewhat faded.”
Multilateralism and security: “We live in a world with a deteriorating security, growing population, consequences of climate change, and market turbulences, aggravated by the high energy and food prices. We need a deeper engagement with the risks we face globally. This requires a new commitment to our values and willingness to work for an international system that has a vision of the future at its heart. I wish this to become the driving force for all the work of this 63rd session of the General Assembly.”
Lebanon
H.E. General Michel Sleiman, President
23 September 2008
Landmines and cluster munitions: “Obtaining all the maps of landmines and sites of cluster bombs planted and left behind by Israel on Lebanese soil. Their presence constitutes a direct threat to the civilian population, especially children, and deprives the farmers and workers of cultivating their land. The States concerned are therefore called upon to meet their pledges to provide the necessary sources of funding to complete the demining program and get rid of those deadly bombs.”
Peace and security: “Following up closely the developments of the situation in the Middle East, and in view of its commitment to Arab causes, especially the just cause of Palestine, and of the direct implications such developments have on its security and stability, Lebanon reiterates its commitment to the process of achieving just and comprehensive peace in the region and to the Arab peace initiative that was unanimously adopted by the Arab leaders at the 2002 Beirut Summit.”
Peace, security, war, and terrorism: “More than sixty years ago, and following a ravaging war, a group of nations decided to shape a better future for their children and for the world by renewing the idea of cooperation and unity among nations in this Organization in a bid to maintain international peace and security and pursue global social and economic interdependence, with a view to contributing to the protection of human rights in all its forms. While mankind has been able to avoid global new wars, the growing regional conflicts, the emergence of international terrorism as a phenomenon that transcends country borders, the uncertainties marring the globalized economy, and the emergence of the global food crisis, threaten further low-intensity wars that might break out in more than one region or more than one area.”
Terrorism: “Confronting terrorism in all its forms and maintaining internal peace. The Lebanese Army and the Internal Security Forces have been subject to brutal attacks by terrorist groups in recent years. They were forced to confront them and make dear and huge sacrifices to defend the dignity of Lebanese, their security and stability. In their efforts to combat Israeli terrorist operations, the Lebanese security services managed to arrest the head of an Israeli network that carried out operations of espionage and assassinations on Lebanese soil.”
Lesotho
H.E. Mr. Mohlabi K. Tsekoa, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations
27 September 2008
Peace: “Peace and development are closely inter-related and are mutually reinforcing. The United Nations cannot afford the luxury of complacency in its mandate for the maintenance of world peace and stability.”
War: “Most importantly, let us not forget that the United Nations Organization was born from the ashes of a devastating world war. Indeed, the primary purpose of the United Nations was and continues to be to eliminate future wars and to create sustainable international security. But every year we witness the emergence of new hotspots and designer wars, as some big and powerful states resort more and more to the use of force. Every time these states try to pursue the illusory goal of imposing by force their will on others, they create more unstable and more dangerous world.”
Liberia
H.E. Ms. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, President
23 September 2008
Peace, security, terrorism, disarmament, nuclear weapons, small arms and light weapons: “From our experience as a founding member, Liberia is committed to contributing to the re-definition of international peace and security that is strongly linked to, and demands the promotion of Economic Growth and Sustainable Development, particularly food security, relief from the debt burden, globalization and fair trade. We believe in a peace and security environment that combats … the fight against international terrorism, drug and other international crimes; in disarmament, especially the elimination of nuclear weapons and the control of small arms and light weapons.”
Peace and war: “As current chair of MRU, I can say on behalf of my colleagues that the countries of that basin have declared ‘never again to war and all forms of armed violence’. The MRU will henceforth be the net exporter of peace and all the dividends that come with peace in West Africa.”
Small arms and light weapons, Arms Trade Treaty: “Armed conflicts as we have seen in Liberia and the world over are exacerbated by easy access to small arms and light weapons. Thus, as a part of the efforts for durable peace in conflict zones, we must put into place rigid measures to ensure effective controls of these weapons. My government, in the same vein, supports the Arms Trade Treaty. We continue to champion the call for total and complete nuclear disarmament in order to prevent the world from self-annihilation.”
Terrorism: “These fears are not unfounded if one image such weapons in the hands of a terrorist. But the threat of terrorism—the senseless destruction of innocent lives and property, often times including oneself beats every imagination. The world must unite to fight this scourge. No nation is protected against it.”
Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
H.E. Mr. Giadalla A. Ettalhi, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2008
WMD, nuclear energy: “Out of our belief in the purposes of the UN Charter which calls for the establishment of a world in which peace and security prevail, and in view of the fact that riddance of weapons of mass destruction is an essential factor in building confidence and in the enhancement of peace, security and stability in the world, my country has voluntarily relinquished all its programs of weapons of mass destruction, which are internationally prohibited, emphasizing, however, its right to use atomic energy for peaceful purposes.”
Non-proliferation, WMD Free Zone in the Middle East: “We strongly refuse, however, the use of double standards in dealing with the issue of nuclear non-proliferation. We condemn, any discrimination between one state and another in this respect, and call for making the Middle East a free zone form all weapons of mass destruction.”
Landmines: “The Ottawa Agreement concerning anti-personnel mines should be reviewed. The agreement should also include the concerns of many countries such as requiring the states, which planted these mines to remove them and provide remedies for all the inflicted damages, including the treatment of people injured by those mines and compensating them, as well [as] the rehabilitation of the damaged environment.
“Powerful states do not need anti-personnel mines to defend themselves. Those mines are the means of weak states to defend themselves. The powerful sates, therefore, which guarantee their security against foreign invasion of their lands, by strategic and fatal possess offensive weapons, and can only use defensive weapons, the least of which are mines.”
Terrorism: “The phenomenon of terrorism still constitutes a preoccupation for all member of the international community. Despite all the measures taken to combat terrorism, thanks to international cooperation under the umbrella of the United Nations, this issue still represents a challenge to the international community and an obstacle to achievement of development, security and stability in various parts of the world.
“Eradication of this phenomenon requires the adoption of a specific definition of terrorism. Terrorism is not to be confused with the legitimate right of peoples to struggle and resistance of foreign occupation in order to obtain their freedom and independence, as well as their right to self-determination. Furthermore, associating terrorism with any specific religion, nationality or culture will inflame conflicts between civilizations, religions and cultures. Such a situation is incompatible with the goals of international relations based on mutual respect between different states, cultures, and systems of governments. In this respect, we wish to point out that the policies and practices of foreign occupation based on violations of human rights, guaranteed by all international covenants and conventions, constitutes one of the worst forms of terrorism in our modern world.”
“Under the pretext of democracy and respect for human rights, which are noble goals, those countries have opened the door of political asylum to all seekers, including thieves, smugglers of their countries’ funds, fugitives from punishment, as well as terrorists, enabling them to continue their subversive activities against their countries.
“My country feels, therefore, that the establishment of international criteria and controls which govern political asylum, carefully observing human rights, has a paramount importance, and will have positive impact on combating corruption, terrorism, as well as spreading democracy and avoiding armed conflicts.”
Liechtenstein
H.E. Ms. Rita Kieber-Beck, Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Indeed, it is the United Nations that gives hope to people around the globe; and it is the United Nations that gives political leaders a unique tool to solve problems and to settle conflicts.... we must keep turning to the United Nations to solve our problems together and to protect those most in need and danger. We applaud the Secretary-General and the dedicated UN personnel for their hard work. Nevertheless; The organization is sometimes marred in bureaucracy, inefficiency and political infighting. But the blame falls mainly on us, the Member States. It is our responsibility to adapt the United Nations to today’s challenges and to make it the best possible organization to this end. We must equip the organization with the resources it needs and make the necessary adjustments to its structure.”
Multilateralism: “Liechtenstein is a strong believer in multilateralism and in a rule-based international system. Our national sovereignty is grounded in international law and its observance, and we are therefore strongly committed to the rule of law. These principles were chief among our motivation to join the United Nations eighteen years ago, and they have been high among our priorities as a member ever since. The rule of law has gained much prominence in the work of the United Nations over the past few years. But it has yet to take the central place that it is due. The most precious asset of this organization remains the legitimacy it lends to decisions of the international community. In fact, the United Nations symbolizes the rule of law in international relations. We must preserve this strength and therefore promote the rule of law also within the UN organs and their decision-making, including in the Security Council. Together with other countries, we have expressed longstanding concerns about the current practice of the Security Council on the sanctions listing and delisting, in particular in the area of counter-terrorism. There should be no doubt that we fully support these sanctions regimes, which constitute powerful tools for the maintenance of international peace and security. But we also believe that the procedures applied must be in accordance with basic international standards of due process. Recent court decisions indicate that our reservations are well founded, and we hope that our proposals will contribute to the improvement of the system. We must avoid the impression that decisions of the Security Council might be in violation of human rights standards.”
Lithuania
H.E. Mr. Valdas Adamkus, President
23 September 2008
Security and multilateralism: “The United Nations cannot be a mere passive observer if and when universal values and international law are under threat. Still, too often we remain observers in the face of mounting security crisis.”
Security: “It is only through integration that a truly indivisible security can be achieved. Indivisible security has a special meaning and importance for smaller nations who have all too often fall victims to the redrawing of maps.”
Security and multilateralism: “It is my conviction that interaction and cooperation between different organizations, like the OSCE, the EU, NATO, and the Council of Europe, have been and should remain the foundation of security and stability in Europe. It has its difficulties and deficiencies. But it has no alternative and new alternatives are not needed here. I am deeply worried by new calls to revise the institutional structure of European security rather than follow the commitments taken before the whole international community.”
Security and multilateralism: “Security, based on cooperation, should remain the basic principle of different European organizations and of international relations on the whole. The philosophy of the ‘balance of power,’ which is again growing popular in some capitals, has no place in contemporary Europe.”
Security and multilateralism: “Because security is indivisible, it in the interest of the international community that the UN plays a greater role in strengthening preventive diplomacy and making the principle of ‘Responsibility to Protect’ work.”
Terrorism and multilateralism: “Evidently, the UN cannot continue with business as usual. It needs reform and a greater role in areas that will determine the future of the 21st century, such as energy, information security, fight against terrorism and fundamentalism, and the like.”
Luxembourg
H.E. Mr. Jean Asselborn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration
26 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Macedonia
H.E. Mr. Branko Crvenkovski, President of the Republic of Macedonia
25 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Through [Srgjan Kerim’s] engagement, my country, the Republic of Macedonia, has confirmed in the best possible way the values for which we stand and the principles in which we believe when it comes to international relationships, namely the multilateralism as the key tool for cooperation and promotion of the fundamental values – peace, democracy and human rights and freedoms.”
Peace, security, and terrorism: “Speaking of issues in regard to the sustainability of peace and security, unfortunately, we have to not that presently there are not many reasons for satisfaction. We are still facing numerous crisis situations, old and frozen conflicts, but also a series of recent turbulent incidents and tensions in several regions of the world. The terrorist acts are still occurring with worrying frequency, and we, the member countries, are still lacking the strength to read consensus regarding the truly necessary global convention for fight against this evil.”
Multilateralism: “The above mentioned tendencies are justly inciting some people to bring up the issue of the relevance of the United Nations in the present context, as well as the issues of the meaning of multilateralism and its true range, and the selective implementation of international law and principles.”
Madagascar
H.E. Mr. Marc Ravalomanana, President
23 September 2008
Multilateralism: “An important obstacle to making progress in developing countries and to achieving the MDGS is the lack of shared decision-making power in international institutions and global forums. I would like to see a United Nations that can mobilize resources and political will to tackle the toughest of problems – and succeed. I am optimistic. I believe that we can turn the situation around. I appeal to you as leaders of the world. Everyone needs to contribute to the international basket: more goodwill, more motivation, more technical assistance, more coordinated efforts and much more financial resources. If you are committed, if we are all committed, we can confront these crises and we can still reach the Millennium Development Goals. We can win this!”
Security and war: “We are facing a global food crisis, a global economic crisis, and a global security crisis with war and political hostilities spreading throughout the globe.… These global crises are of such importance that they are threatening to push the Millennium Development Goals into the margins of our agenda. If we allowed this to happen, this would be a major mistake. We have to remain focused on the achievement of the MDGs. In doing so, we will also contribute to solving some of these other complex global issues.”
War: “Many of the resources that have been dedicated to achieving the MDGs are now being directed elsewhere. They are used to reconstruct countries destroyed by wars and to rehabilitate societies faltering as a result of social conflicts.... I understand that countries devastated by wars and other armed conflicts ... need assistance.... What I do not understand, however, is that these challenges sometimes offer reasons for countries to abdicate on their promises of doubled aid for education, health and infrastructure in order to achieve the MDGs in developing countries, especially in Africa.”
Malawi
H.E. Mr. Bingu Wa Mutharika, President
24 September 2008
No relevant references.
Malaysia
H.E. Dr. Rais Yatim, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Terrorism: “New threats to peace and security continue to pose additional challenges to the international community. Terrorism, transnational crimes and piracy are but a few of the challenges that confront us. Already, the scourge of terrorism international waters piracy has taken its toll on States.”
Maldives
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Khaleel, Chairperson of the Delegation
29 September 2008
Terrorism: “Organized crime and terrorism are continuing to menace the maintenance of international peace and security. The recent bombings in India and Pakistan are yet another tragic reminder of the evil and insidious nature of terrorism. It is therefore important for the international community to ensure that the war against terrorism remains a priority on the international agenda.
“The continued scourge of terrorism is particularly alarming when seen in the context of the spread of nuclear arms and other weapons of mass destruction. The threat of a terrorist organization gaining access to such weapons is extremely alarming.
“I am happy to not that the Maldives is now party to almost all international conventions on counter terrorism. Despite its limited resources and expertise, the Maldives has been actively working towards implementing its various regional and multilateral obligations under the international counter terrorism regime. As such, I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate our commitment to combat global terrorism, specifically to Security Council resolution 1373 and 1540.”
Multilateralism and terrorism: “Its universal character and the multilateralism that it embodies, hold true to the ideals and virtues upon which it was founded and, without doubt, provide the only viable framework for solving the world’s greatest challenges including climate change, sustainable development, human rights and global terrorism.”
Mali
H.E. Mr. Moctar Ouane, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Malta
H.E. Mr Lawrence Gonzi, Prime Minister
26 September 2008
Terrorism: “Likewise, the fight against terrorism must remain high on our agenda. We should not lower our guard. We must always be vigilant and ready to take collective and practical action on a daunting, complex and politically sensitive challenge. Terrorism has no boundaries and the unspeakable acts of terrorism can strike anywhere, anytime, in poor and rich countries, with innocent victims paying for these vicious terror attacks, as the one perpetrated in Pakistan last week, which undermine the human rights and fundamental freedoms of the individual and of society itself.”
Marshall Islands
H.E. Mr. Litokwa Tomeing, President
25 September 2008
Terrorism and security: “Earlier this month, the United States commemorated the 7th anniversary of the tragic loss of lives resulting from barbaric acts carried out against eh American people on September 11, 2001. The event threatened our collective security, prompting a response in support against acts of terrorism.”
Peace: “While the ideal of peace envisioned by the framers of the Charter of the United Nations 63 years ago is yet to be fully achieved, this should not be a cause for dispair. People of goodwill everywhere have expressed their yearning for world peace.”
Peace: “I believe, Mr. President, that time has come for the United Nations to convoke an international convention where the fundamental principles and tenets of permanent world peace may be deliberated.
“Such a bold step, Mr. President, will draw our attention more sharply to our true nature, to existing constructive forces, and to the need for unifying social structures that can foster the establishment of a truly new world order, and global society animated by principles of social justice.
“Today, Mr. President, nothing is more urgent, more imperative and more important upon this great institution than the establishment of world peace, one that is permanent and firmly rests upon the bedrock of justice.”
Mauritius
H.E. Mr. Somduth Soborun, Chairperson of the Delegation
29 September 2008
Terrorism: “On top of these; climate change, high food and energy prices and terrorism put in jeopardy hard-earned development gains.”
War: “War, conflict and human rights violations are closely co-related. Situations of conflict and war inevitably give rise to violations of human rights and atrocities against innocent civilians. Displacement and violent death continue to be the lot of far too many in parts of the Middle East, Africa and Asia.”
Terrorism: “The grave and pervasive threat of terrorism knows no boundaries. No country is shielded from its pernicious and devastating impact. Mauritius is committed to the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. It is imperative that we conclude a comprehensive convention against terrorism as soon as possible to reinforce the existing legal framework. As part of its contribution to the international efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, Mauritius has joined, in June 2008, the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism.”
Multilateralism: “We fully share your view aiming at the democratization of our organization. The ongoing discussions on the Revitalization of the UN General Assembly, the System Wide Coherence, Mandate Review and Management Reform in the context of the UN reform process should be aimed at strengthening multilateralism.”
Awaiting unofficial translation of second half of Mauritius’ statement.
Mauritania
H.E. Mr. Abderrahim Ould Hadrami, Chairperson of the Delegation
29 September 2008
Terrorism: “In the field of security, and as a result of his laxity and refusal to listen to the advice of security services, a number of terrorist acts took place for the first time in the country’s history as a result of the release of a number of terrorists who were in custody until he took office.”
“The fact that there are outstanding questions which remained without any solution for long periods of time, the widening gap between the poor and rich, the unfair world economic structure and the absence of any approaches to spread justice, equality and fairness, have all contributed to the creation of pockets of tension and the phenomenon of extremism and terrorism.
“We, in Mauritania, reject terrorism in all its forms. To the extent we condemn terrorism, we adhere to our Islamic tolerant values, which reject violence and extremism and call for tolerance and brotherhood. We believe that the international family should seriously consider the causes of this phenomenon and ways of facing it so that we may eradicate it fully form our world.”
Mexico
H.E. Mr. Felipe Calderón Hinojosa, President
24 September 2008
Security: “Threats to global security are not only the result of conflict between states, but of the challenges posed by the activities on non state actors such as international organized crime groups and drug trafficking.”
Security and weapons: “Mexico and Latin American face security threats that are a good example of common challenges: the illicit drug, weapons and human trafficking knows no borders. Latin America is today one of the regions of the world with the most violent deaths, which has become one of the most limiting aspects of our development.”
Terrorism: “Terrorism, whatever its justification or ideological motivations, has no place in the community of values that we have forged with so much difficulty. Mexico condemns it and affirms its will to cooperate on the basis of international law in order to prevent terrorist acts and to punish its authors.”
Multilateralism: “The United Nations is the forum that best represents the diversity of human beings, the plurality of nations and the collective aspirations of wellbeing and progress for our civilization. I am talking about a privileged alliance formed to guarantee a world of peace and justice, of security and development where all can enjoy its opportunities and wellbeing.”
Multilateralism: “Multilateralism is the way of the 21st century. It is the integrated response to globalization. We must pool our strength in order to make it possible for the UN to make into reality the dream of its founders: peace, security and development for all the peoples of the planet.”
Micronesia
H.E. Mr Emanuel Mori, President
25 September 2008
No relevant references.
Moldova
H.E. M. Andrei Stratan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and European Integration
29 September 2008
Terrorism: “The Review meeting on the assessment of the implementation of the Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy (4 September 2008) emphasized both the progresses registered by the UN and its member states during the last years and the deficiencies in fighting international terrorism. In this context I would like to reaffirm that as party to 13 international conventions and other regional and bilateral treaties in this field, the Government of the Republic of Moldova takes concrete steps in fighting terrorism in accordance with the provisions of those instruments, of the relevant Security Council resolutions and national documents, including the National Strategy of Prevention and Fighting Money Laundering and Terrorism Funding.
“The Republic of Moldova will further undertake all possible steps for contributing to the UN’s actions in consolidating international legislation in the field of countering international terrorism, especially in view of finalizing development and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism and organization of the High Level Conference on Terrorism under the UN auspices. We consider that in the framework of the above activities increased attention should be given to the issues related to fighting terrorism fueled by separatist tendencies that affect states’ sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Multilateralism: “At the same time we rely on the support and opportunities offered by the UN and member states in view of promoting political, social and economic policies of the country and European integration aspirations, ensuring settlement of the Transdniestrian conflict, withdrawal of foreign military troops and accomplishment of the development priorities of the country. I would like to reiterate the attachment of the Republic of Moldova to the ideals of the United Nations and the commitment to continuously cooperate with the member states for achieving the important objectives of the Organizations.”
Monaco
H.E. Mr. Franck Bianchéri, Government Counsellor for External Relations and International Economic and Financial Affairs
27 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Mongolia
H.E. Mr. Bayar Sanj, Prime Minister
24 Setember 2008
Terrorism: “Global problems ranging from poverty, violence, inequality and disparity, terrorism, HIV/AIDS, natural disasters and other acute problems have been further impeded by current global financial, food and energy crisis.”
Multilateralism: “As we live in an increasingly globalized and interdependent world, the solutions demand our concerted action.”
Multilateralism: “Constructive engagement in world affairs through multilateral cooperation mechanisms with the UN at the center, and deeper integration into the world economy will thus continue to be the cornerstone of Mongolia’s foreign policy. I understand all too well that existence of a stable, peaceful and prosperous world is a condition sine qua non for a fulfillment of my of any other government’s promise to its people.”
Multilateralism: “And it is no accident that in the face of the pressing need to formulate our shared vision on how to collectively address these complex challenges we turn to the United Nations. The United Nations has throughout manifested its undisputed authority in identifying ways and means to address major global problems. Yet, we also agree that our world Organization needs to be reformed and adapted to the evolving realities with a view to ensuring its efficient functioning. Some important steps to this end have already been taken.”
Multilateralism: “In our globalized world, no nation can achieve its goals all on its own and neither can Mongolia. Constructive engagement in world affairs through multilateral cooperation mechanisms with the UN at the center, and deeper integration into the world economy will thus continue to be the cornerstone of Mongolia’s foreign policy. I understand all to well that existence of a stable, peaceful and prosperous world is a condition sine qua non for a fulfillment of my or any other government’s promise to its people. With this in mind, I wish to reaffirm Mongolia’s strong resolve to continue its active engagement in the work of the United Nations and other multilateral organizations and processes and her commitment to the world Organisation as a central coordinating instrument of common efforts of the family of nations to address complex challenges of our times.”
Nuclear Power: “The most effective way to mitigate these factors is to improve energy efficiency and pursue energy diversification. In this regard, Mongolia commends efforts of member states and international organizations in the field of research, development, deployment, and transfer of innovative energy technologies such as renewables, cleaner and low-carbon technologies, and nuclear power.”
Montenegro
H.E. Mr. Filip Vujanovic, President of Montenegro
26 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Multilateralism as the core of the international system inspires strong motivation and commitment. That is why the United Nations provides a reliable framework for maintaining international peace and security, strengthening democracy, protection of human rights and freedoms, respect for the international law, and fostering economic and social development of states.”
Multilatearlism, WMD, and terrorism: “Challenges that we are facing today – political problems, hotspots, blatant violation of human rights and freedoms, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, environmental degradation and climate change – do require adequate response and decisive action. We believe that no effective or lasting response is possible without a joint action of the entire international community.”
Morocco
H.E. Mr. Abbas El Fassi, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Morocco
27 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Twenty years ago, the Fall of the Berlin Wall marked the end of the Cold War era that had been characterized by ideological divisions, arms race and a weak multilateral system with inefficient mechanisms.
“With the end of this era came great hope from the world's peoples, leading some to believe in the beginning of a new world order. A world order that would not only be more fair and equitable, but also distinguished by a culture of forgiveness among its nations. This new order was also meant to spread the values of democracy and human rights, giving priority to development and a better exploitation of technological advancemen.t At the same time, some people predicted that this new world order would restore esteem to the United Nations and enable it to succeed in building consensus on international issues. The UN would thus be empowered to implement its strategies aiming to foster peace and security, encourage development, and spread universal values,
“Despite the expectations of a better world that followed the end of the cold war, today's reality is one of an increase in regional and internal conflicts, especially in the African continent. This situation is exacerbated by a race for energy resources and a frenzied exploitation of precious minerals.
“The weak role of the UN in maintaining peace and security throughout the world during the Cold War period was followed by a new phase, during which the multilateral system became characterized by the convening of several meetings and conferences focusing on different issues, as well as the deployment of numerous peacekeeping operations, especially in Africa. ... Nevertheless, some weaknesses remain regarding internal coordination among the various UN bodies, as well as between the Organization itself and other regional organizations. This is particularly evident regarding the efforts made to contain and prevent regional conflicts with potential spillover effects.
“At this point, it is important to strengthen multilateralism with the aim of meeting the new challenges and to put in place a new order based on justice and equality. The pursuit of such an approach is not merely an option and seems to be necessary given the serious challenges facing the international community, namely the continued threats to international peace and security, the necessity to enhance solidarity among members of the international community and the achievement of economic prosperity and sustainable development.”
Multilateralism: “The UN is based on the principles of cooperation and neighborly relations, with regional integration and cooperation representing the best means to ensure stability, economic development and an improved common future.”
Mozambique
H.E. Mr. Armando Emílio Guebuza, President
24 September 2008
Multilateralism: “In this regard, the reform process should continue so that the United Nations can achieve greater unity and ability to provide an appropriate response to the challenges that are imposed to us by the need of reinforcing the multilateralism and the promotion of partnerships for peace, security and development across the world.”
Myanmar
H. E. M. U Nyan Win, Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “The daunting challenges of the 21st century could only be addressed through international cooperation. We can only solve the international problems of economic, social, cultural or humanitarian character by working together. To do this, powerful countries should refrain from practicing hegemonic policies either through political or economic pressures.
“In the global village that we live, mutual respect, understanding and tolerance must be the values that we espouse. As we face environmental issues including the climate change that wrought great devastation to peoples in various regions around the world; we need a united response to overcome them. Let us work together to give our global village a peaceful and prosperous future.”
Namibia
H.E. Mr. Hifikepunye Pohamba, President
23 September 2008
Multilateralism, peace, and security: “The 63rd Session of General Assembly is taking place at a time when the global economy is dominated by four interrelated crises... [including] the need to foster peace and security around the world. We must act decisively and collectively at national, regional and global levels to overcome these challenges... It is our duty to ensure that the United Nations remains true to its unique universal character and that it becomes a source of hope for a more secure and peaceful world for the current and future generations.”
Nauru
H.E. Mr Marcus Stephen, President
24 September 2008
Militarism: “The United States military expansion in Guam provides another opportunity for significant development assistance to the Pacific.”
Peace and security: “The issue of climate change for Pacific Island nations is a threat to international peace and security.”
Multilateralism, peace, and war: “Sixty three years after the United Nations was founded on the noble ideals of establishing a peaceful, free, and tolerant global order, the world community still suffers from the scourges of war, poverty, oppression, and discrimination together with facing the today’s colossal global challenges that threaten our very existence.
“If the United Nations is to remain devoted to the ideals upon which it was founded it is absolutely critical that it is reformed through the revitalization and empowerment of the General Assembly.
“If the United Nations is to remain a defender of human rights and international peace, it is crucial that the Security Council be expanded to better reflect geo-political realities of the modern world.”
Nepal
H.E. Mr. Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, Prime minister
26 September 2008
Peace: “Nepal's peace process is unique in its characteristics and is based on multiparty democracy, inclusiveness, accommodation, dialogue, and the recognition of the people as the ultimate arbiter. It is the outcome of our own creative disposition towards peace and we feel that it can also serve as a reference model for peace elsewhere.”
Terrorism, nuclear weapons, WMD: “The United Nations agenda today has to tackle these development challenges and many other issues such as religious extremism and terrorism, proliferation of nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction, transnational crimes such as drugs, human trafficking and money-laundering, continuing conflicts within and among states, and gross violations of human rights, genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.”
Multilateralism: “It is more than obvious that many of these global problems require global solutions. Together we can rise to the occasion and adopt a vision and strategy that the founders of the United Nations Organization charted in the purposes and principles of the Charter of the Organization. Multilateralism, not unilateralism is the answer to these problems.”
Disarmament: “I am pleased that the UN Regional Center for Peace Disarmament in Asia and the Pacific has been now operational from Kathmandu twenty year after it was established by this august Assembly. I thank all the members, countries from the region and the Secretary General and the officials of the Secretariat for the smooth relocation of the Centre from New York to Kathmandu.”
Peace: “Enjoyment of universal human rights is absolutely essential in creating the environment of peace, justice, democracy and development.”
Netherlands
H.E. Mr. Jan Peter Balkenende, Prime Minister and Minister for General Affairs
25 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Global challenges require global solutions. Global solutions require global action. Every one of us needs to ask ourselves: what am I doing to make freedom a reality for people at home and elsewhere? The international community will support all those who fight against hunger, want and disease. But we must do so as efficiently as possible. We must not waste resources: the need is too great. Above all, we must work together.
Multilateralism: “The number of armed conflicts is also declining, however serious the situation remains in certain troubled regions. Progress is possible. But it doesn't happen by itself. For the Netherlands, this is an incentive to continue working, heart and soul, -for 'a world in which human beings shall enjoy freedom of speech and belief, and freedom from fear and want'. In conclusion, let me echo President Roosevelt's words: 'The world order which we seek is the cooperation of free countries, working together in a friendly, civilised society.'”
New Zealand
H.E. Ms. Rosemary Banks, Chairperson of the Delegation
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “More than ever before, we are an interconnected and interdependent world community. The Charter goals of peace and prosperity require the full support of all United Nations members.”
Nicaragua
H.E. Mr. Samuel Santos Lopez, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Niger
H.E. Ms. Aïchatou Mindaoudou, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Nigeria
H.E. Mr. Umaru Musa Yar’adua, President
29 September 2008
Small arms and light weapons: “It is against this background that we raise before this assembly, the concern of many developing countries, especially in Africa, suffering from the devastating consequences of the illicit trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons. Most of the civil wars and insurgencies in these countries have been prosecuted with these weapons. And because of their lethality and ready deployment, they may be described as Africa’s experience of weapon of mass destruction.
“We remain convinced that the best and most effective strategy for achieving the goal of preventing, combating and eradicating this illicit and deadly trade is through the elaboration of a legally-binding global instrument, as well as the political will on the part of all, to stem the uncontrolled proliferation of Small Arms. There is need, therefore, for urgent action to criminalize oil bunkering, the sale of oil so acquired and the use of its proceeds to fuel new crisis situations in Africa, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea, through the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. The same creativity and political will that was demonstrated in confronting ‘blood diamonds’ as a source of regional instability must be available this time in dealing with ‘blood oil’ that now threatens the Gulf.”
Small arms and light weapons: “We call on the international community, to take bold and robust steps that would lead to the full deployment and operationalization of the AD-UN hybrid peacekeeping force. In the same vein, we call on the Government of Sudan to take steps that will facilitate the attainment of this objective ... [including] a global commitment towards stemming the flow of small arms and light weapons into Africa.”
Terrorism: “Nigeria condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. We reaffirm our support for the counter terrorism measures of the Security Council and the UN Global Counter Terrorism Strategy. We have also been implementing the four pillars of the Global Strategy through measures that have proven effective in combating terrorism. For us, the fight against terrorism is strongly anchored on the rule of law and respect for human rights. It is important that, as we combat this scourge, fundamental freedoms and human rights are neither compromised nor abused.”
Norway
H.E. Mr. Jens Stoltenberg, Prime Minister
25 September 2008
Multilateralism: “All countries, all member states share the responsibility for the functioning of the United Nations as a decisionmaking body, that serves us, which is for people. That solves global problems. And allows all people to benefit from the rights with which they were born. And which are written in the Declaration on Human Rights.”
Oman
H.E. Mr. Sayyid Badr Bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Pakistan
H.E. Mr. Asif Ali Zardari, President
25 September 2008
Terrorism: “The roots of today’s terrorism can be traced to a war involving the world’s superpowers in Afghanistan during the 1980s. Afghanistan and Pakistan, and increasingly the world, are reaping the bitter harvest sowed towards the end of the cold war.
“We may be the targets of international terrorism, but we will never succumb to it. Toward that end, we reach out to you and to the entire civilized world. Terrorism cannot be fought by military means alone. Fighting it requires political will, popular mobilization, and a socio economic strategy that wins the hearts and minds of nations afflicted by it.
“Unilateral actions of great powers should not inflame the passions of allies. Violating our nation’s sovereignty is not helpful in eliminating the terrorist menace. Indeed, this could have the opposite effect. Many of you in this great hall read about terror. We live with it. We do not learn about terror from reading newspapers or watching the evening news. We see our children and our wives being blown up before us. My cities, neighborhoods, streets, hotels and offices bear the brunt of the terrorist fanatic rage every single day. A democratic Pakistan is in the process of reaching the national consensus necessary to confront and defeat the terrorists. Only a democratic government can win this war. We are fighting the menace and we will continue to fight. But this is the fight for the peace of the world. This is the fight for the future of generations to come. Yes, we fight for ourselves, for our children, for our very soul. Yes, this is our war, but we need international support—moral, political and economic. In our stability lies the world’s security. Globalization is not just economic; it is also political. The terrorist vision strikes out at all continents and all nations. We must draw the line on their rampage. And we must draw that line in Pakistan.”
Terrorism: “Today, the horror of terrorism that plagues our region and threatens the world is a by-product of this lack of commitment to the values of democracy. When the world betrays democracy, it sets the table for disaster. We all continue to pay the price. In the early years of the new millennium, there are two great battles before mankind. First there is the battle for democracy and liberty against authoritarians and dictators—the fight for universal human rights that is the hallmark of this body. At the same time, we are fighting in the trenches of the battle that will determine the course of the new millennium—the battle against extremism and terrorism—between the forces of ignorance and the forces of education, between bigotry and tolerance, between justice and discrimination, between confrontation and reconciliation.”
Terrorism: “We are not the cause of the problem of terrorism, we are its victims. We are an aggrieved nation NOT one that has caused grief. We have fought this battle largely alone. We have shared our air bases, our air space, our intelligence, and our armed forces in a coordinated effort to contain terrorism. Ladies and gentlemen, It is time for the developed world to step up to the plate to help us, and in turn help itself. The fight against extremism is a fight for the hearts and minds of people. It can’t be won only by guns and bombs. The fight must be multifaceted. The battleground must be economic and social as well as military. We will win when people are mobilized against the fanatics. To mobilize them we have to give them hope and opportunity for their future. They need jobs. Their children need education. They must be fed. They must have energy. We must give people a stake in their own government, and we must demonstrate to them that democracy does perform, that democratic governance can improve their everyday life. An economically viable Pakistan will be a stable Pakistan. And a stable Pakistan will suck the oxygen from the terrorists’ agenda. Economic justice and political democracy are the worst nightmares of the terrorists. We must all fight this epic battle together as allies and partners. But just as we will not let Pakistan’s territory to be used by terrorists for attacks against our people and our neighbors, we cannot allow our territory and our sovereignty to be violated by our friends. Attacks within Pakistan that violate our sovereignty actually serve to empower the forces against which we fight together.”
Palau
H.E. Mr. Elias Camsek Chin, Vice President
25 September 2008
Terrorism: “Palau is an active participant in the efforts of the international community to combat terrorism and has made every effort to improve its anti-terrorism capacity. We have met with the Counter Terrorism Executive Directorate to advance our requests for assistance, particularly in the area of combating money laundering and terrorism financing. Unfortunately, the efforts of the Directorate have been insufficient. Out experience has been that the capacity building efforts of the United Nations have focused on helping countries draft and adopt legislation. That is an excellent first step, but an insufficient one as the best-designed legislation is meaningless without enforcement. We hope that during the 63rd session of the General Assembly, the United Nations will take the next step and help smaller countries, which have the drive but not the means, to operationalize the laws and regulations these countries have in place to fight terrorism. We urge the establishment of a voluntary trust fund that would allow small states to develop effective counter-terrorism initiatives. We thank the United States and Australia for the counter terrorism assistance they have given us.”
Palestine
H.E. Mr. Mahmoud Abbas, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestinian Liberation Organization and President of the Palestinian Authority
26 September 2008
WMD Zone in the Middle East: “For the purpose of these noble objectives, namely the building of a new Middle East free of destructive mind-sets and irrational tendencies that are contrary to the highest human values preached by all religions and creeds, a new Middle East free of weapons of mass destruction.”
Panama
H.E. Mr. Martín Torrijos, President
23 September 2008
Unofficial translation by WILPF staff.
Multilateralism: “This organisation was founded at the end of a world conflagration to banish war forever from the world and to prevent armed confrontations between nations or groups of nations. Although all of such events have not been able to be avoided, certainly it has constituted a deterrent, which has prevented wars which might have proved even more devastating.”
Peace: “The United Nations has as its major principle the preservation of peace, but peace is not just the absence of armed conflict between countries. Peace also needs the tranquility of nations and entails the elimination of adverse factors that can cause disruptions.”
Papua New Guinea
H.E. The Honourable Puka Temu, Deputy Prime Minister
27 September 2008
Multilateralism and terrorism: “The UN currently provides the global forum for member states to address the many global issues we face together…. We must also be vigilant against terrorism and threats to international peace and security.”
Small arms and light weapons: “We live in a world that provides us many opportunities, as well as formidable development challenges. The challenges include addressing the destructive effects from the illicit use of small arms and lights weapons, the need to address globalization, and food and energy security which lead into the wider issue of human security.”
Paraguay
H.E. Mr. Fernando Lugo Méndez, President
24 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Peru
H.E. Mr. José Antonio Garcia Belaunde, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Philippines
H.E. Ms. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, President
23 September 2008
Peace: “There is no alternative to peace.”
Disarmament: “The context of our agreements with all armed groups shall subscribe to the UN-recognized principle of demobilization, disarmament and reintegration.”
Poland
H.E. Mr Lech Kaczynski, President
24 September 2008
Multilateralism: “One of the fundamental principles governing the democratic management within the United Nations is expressed in the following words: ‘one state one vote’. Each state should be granted the possibility to decide in which direction the United Nations will be heading. The General Assembly still remains the most important forum for holding such democratic debate. In this context, facilitation of the decision making mechanism takes on pivotal importance. We advocate a quicker pace of works on the reform of the Security Council. The number of non-permanent members of the Council should be increased so as to reflect the true image of today’s world.”
Multilateralism: “The issues mentioned above cannot be solved by a single state or a group of states. Today we clearly see that we need a joint action by all countries: poor and rich, Eastern and Western, Northern and Southern. In order to live up to the challenges facing the world today, we should act jointly in the spirit of solidarity, and via effectively operating international structures such as the United Nation, to achieve best results. What is essential however, is guaranteeing respect for core principles of international law, human rights and fundamental freedoms.”
Terrorism and security: “Poland’s involvement in international security is visible through our participation in an anti-terrorist coalition in numerous volatile regions of the world. Currently more than 3500 Polish troops and police officers are stationed as a part of global peacekeeping and stabilization forces – from Africa, through the Balkans, through the Middle East and Asia. Iraq was one of such places. Through its 5-year long presence in Iraq, Poland has made efforts to help our Iraqi friends and allies to ensure external and internal security.”
Portugal
H.E. Mr. Aníbal António Cavaco Silva, President
24 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Global challenges imply a collective responsibility. The United Nations are the forum that best embodies that collective responsibility.”
Multilateralism: “In a globalised and interdependent world, only strong multilateral institutions can promote the fundamental values of peace, democracy, human rights and sustainable development. Portugal is committed to supporting effective multilateralism, based on cohesive and efficient United Nations.”
Peace: “Peace, sustainable development, access to education and health and the integration of the African economies in the international markets are essential objectives to build a more just, more peaceful and more balanced international order.”
Terrorism: “Seven years have passed since this city suffered one of the most infamous acts the world has witnessed in our time. Although much has been done since then, terrorism continues to be a threat. The implementation of the Global Strategy is fundamental for the success in combating the ‘common enemy.’
“In this regard, respect for human rights and for the fundamental freedom is crucial and their promotion contributes to preventing terrorism.”
Qatar
His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Amir
23 September 2008
Peace: “I need not remind anyone in this august chamber which gathers an audience of such a high level, that the goal of this organization and the purpose of its Charter are primarily to achieve and maintain world peace.
“The human experience that is full of hopes and horrors reminds us all that achieving world peace is a conscious positive act and not just wishful thinking. We have tried to look for peace through war in which the powerful impose their will as in the two world wars in the twentieth century.
“We have also tried to look for peace through agreement between empires as between Britain and France in 1904. We have tried to look for peace through coexistance between the United States and the Soviet Union in 1971. In all those attempts, by war or agreement between powers, by agreement between empires, or by coexistence between blocs and doctrines, peace has remained elusive.
“We have all recognized through these long and exhausting experiences that achieving peace is a positive act that means more than just eliminating the threat of arms. While it is true that humanity has not known a global war in the last sixty years, it is also true that peace in those last sixty years has remained elusive for it was a peace marred by conflicts on all continents and in all territories. We have also come to the conclusion that in a world where barriers of distances and time have vanished, achieving peace requires establishing and promoting economic and social justice among peoples, and this is what constitutes positive peace.
“If the principles of the Charter have established the political rights of nations on the basis of international law, the right of their peoples to social justice must be based on the idea of development. In the past, the first generation of advocates and proponents of the movements of national liberation demanded for what they called “positive neutrality” thinking that they could thus distance themselves from the wars of the of the super powers. In fact, the realities of today’s world require a different approach, for peace cannot be achieved through conflict between powers, agreement between empires, or coexistence among blocs, and not even through positive neutrality.
“The alternative to those three options is our choice, namely positive peace, the era of international law that ensures political rights, and the era of development that provides parallel and equal opportunities to one world that cannot head into the future hindered by the injustices of politics or blinded by the darkness of underdevelopment.
“Qatar is getting ready for the Follow-up International Conference on Financing for Development. My country looks forward to an international cooperation that offers the broadest base possible for political as well as social peace. We hope that participation in the conference will be at the highest possible level, for the goal is ambitious and the purpose is vital for the safety and peace of the one human global village.”
Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. Han Seung-soo, Prime Minister
25 September 2008
Terrorism: “On September 12, 2001, this assembly began its 56th Session by adopting a resolution strongly condemning the terrorist acts and calling on the international community’s concerted effort to combat terrorism. With the close cooperation that has followed, counter-terrorist capacity has been strengthened at all levels. Nevertheless, as we are witnessing in many parts of the world today, terrorism continues to threaten and cost the lives of innocent people. As the international community shares the concern over such an intractable trend, it is time for us to renew our commitment to completely root out terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.”
WMD, delivery systems, disarmament, non-proliferation: “The proliferation of WMDs and their delivery systems pose a grave threat to international peace and security. We must strengthen the disarmament and non-proliferation regimes, including the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).”
North Korean nuclear programme: “It is crucial that the North Korean nuclear issue be expeditiously resolved. This issue has remained for many years as a threat to the security of Northeast Asia while seriously undermining the very foundations of the NPT regime.
The Republic of Korea is making every effort to resolve the North Korean nuclear issue within the framework of the Six-Party Talks, under which some progress has been made. However, Pyonyong’s recent move to suspend the disablement measures and attempt to reverse the process is highly regrettable. We urge the DPRK to resume disablement measures immediately so that the positive momentum generated by the Six-Party Talks process can be maintained and the denuclearization process can move forward.”
North Korean nuclear programme: “With the peaceful resolution of the North Korean nuclear issue, countries in the region will be able to accelerate cooperation to make Northeast Asia more stable and future-oriented. Undoubtedly, this will in turn contribute greatly to the peace and prosperity of the world.”
Romania
H.E. Mr. Lazar Comanescu, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Peace and security: “Full observance of all principles and norms of international law, territorial integrity of States included, is a must for all of us if we want peace, security, stability and prosperity to prevail.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, terrorism, WMD, conventional weapons, multilateralism: “Responsibility and solidarity are also basic pillars of the international norms in disarmament, non-proliferation and the fight against terrorism, be they traditional treaties – such as the Nuclear Proliferation Treaty (NPT), or newly established mechanisms like the Resolution 1540 (2004). First, an essential obligation of each state is the responsibility towards the effective and comprehensive implementation of its commitments by promoting the necessary legal framework as well as establishing appropriate mechanisms for verification and control. Romania has enacted and continues to strengthen several specific laws in order to translate into internal regulations the prohibitions against the development, acquisition, transfer and use of nuclear, biological, chemical (Weapons of Mass Destruction/WMD), radiological weapons, and the restrictions on conventional armaments. Second, there is a need for solidarity and cooperation at regional and multilateral levels, so that national measures and actions are recognized and implemented. Romania has always shown interest and availability to work together with all members of the international community in this respect. The most recent proof is the contribution of my country to the Seven Nations Initiative for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, launched by Norway in 2005. Concrete exampled of our involvement are the international seminar on “How can the Black Sea Region Contribute to Improved Global Security,” hosted by Bucharest in 2007, as well as other activities aimed at promoting the objectives of this cross-regional initiative.”
Russian Federation
H.E. M. Sergey V. Lavrov, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Terrorism and multilateralism: “On 11 September 2001 the world had changed and rallied together in the combat against the threat of terror that was common for all and had no boundaries. The world displayed an unprecedented solidarity by rejecting old phobia and stereotypes. It seemed that the global antiterrorist coalition became a new reality that from now on would define the development of international relations free from double standards and beneficial for all.
“The cohesion in the face of deadly threats coming from Al Qaeda and other elements of ‘terrorist international’ made it possible to achieve tangible success at the first stage. But later, problems began to grow.
“A painful blow to the unity of the antiterrorist coalition was delivered by the war in Iraq when—as it turned out—under false pretext of fight on terror and nuclear arms proliferation the international law was violated. Artificially, the deepest crisis was created, and it is far from being resolved up until now.
“More and more questions are being raised as to what is going on in Afghanistan. First of all, what is the acceptable price for losses among civilians in the ongoing counter-terror operation? Who decides on criteria of proportionality of the use of force? And why the international contingents are unwilling to engage in the combat against proliferating drug threat that causes ever increasing suffering to the countries of Central Asia and Europe?
“These and other factors give reason to believe that the anti-terror coalition is in the face of crisis. Looking at the core of the problem, this coalition seems to lack collective arrangements—i.e. equality among all its members in deciding on the strategy, operational tactics. It so happened that in order to control a totally new situation as it evolved after 9/11, instead of required genuine cooperative effort, including joint analysis and coordination of practical steps, the mechanisms intended for a unipolar world started to be used, meaning that all decisions were to be taken in a single center while the rest just had to follow.
“The solidarity of the international community fostered on the wave of struggle against terrorism turned out to be somehow ‘privatized’.”
Outer Space, missile defense, and militarism: “The inertia of unipolar world ideology also revealed itself in other spheres of international life, including unilateral steps on AMD [anti-missile defense] and militarization of outer space, attempts to bypass the parity in arms control regimes, enlargements of politico-military blocs, and politicization of the issues of access to energy resources and their transit.”
Terrorism and multilateralism: “It has become crystal clear that the solidarity expressed by all of us after 9/11 should be revived through the concepts cleared of geopolitical expediency and built on the rejection of double standards when we fight against any infringements upon the international law—be it on the part of terrorists, belligerent political extremists or any others. The crisis in the Caucasus proved again that it is impossible or even disastrous to try to resolve the existing problems in the blind folds of the unipolar world. The price we have to pay in lives and destiny of people is too high.”
Multilateralism and security: “We should take a comprehensive look at security problems. Preside D.A. Medvedev, speaking in Berlin on 5 June, proposed to develop a Treaty on European Security, a kind of ‘Helsinki-2’. This work could be started at a Pan-European summit with the participation of states as well as organizations working in this region.
The Treaty is meant to create a reliable collective system that would ensure equal security for all states, and, record in a legally binding form the basics of relations between its participants with a view to strengthening peace and ensuring stability, and finally—promoting an integrated and manageable development across the vast Euro-Atlantic region. It is a process involving all participants who would reaffirm their commitment to fundamental principles of the international law, such as the non-use of force and peaceful settlements of disputes, sovereignty, territorial integrity and non-interference in the internal affairs, and inadmissibility of strengthening one’s own security by infringing upon the security of others. We also need to conceive together the mechanisms to ensure compliance with these fundamental principles. Naturally, such a Treaty should organically fit into the legal framework of the UN Charter and its principles of collective security.”
Multilateralism: “Only now, after the Cold War is over, the United Nations, created on the basis of polycentric vision of the world, can fully realize its potential. As never before, it is now important that all States reaffirm their commitment to the United Nations as a non-alternative world forum with a universal mandate and generally recognized legitimacy, as a center for open and frank debate and coordination of the world policies on a just and equitable basis free from double standards. This is an essential requirement, if the world is to regain its equilibrium.”
Russia also discussed the recent conflict in South Ossetia and Abkhazia.
Rwanda
H.E. Mr. Paul Kagame, President
23 September 2008
Peace and security: “Rwanda is committed to regional and global peace and stability. Let us not forget that the process of comprehensively resolving the issue of those who committed genocide in Rwanda has yet to be accomplished. We stand ready to play our part in addressing this matter – in the context of broader objectives for consolidating stability and peace on our continent. Once again, I assure you of our determination and commitment to creating a safer and better world.”
Saint Kitts and Nevis
H.E. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Minister of National Security & Immigration, Minister of Sustainable Development and Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture
25 September 2008
No relevant references.
Saint Lucia
H.E. Mr. Stephenson King, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, International Financial Services, Economic Affairs, National Development and External Affairs
26 September 2008
Small arms and light weapons: “Mr. President, Saint Lucia is seriously concerned about the proliferation of small arms in our part of the world. The presence of small arms in our region poses serious challenges for the security and stability of our societies. As we struggle to address this problem within our limited resources, we call on those states that are engaged in the production and trade of small arms and ammunition to enact appropriate measures to curb the illicit trade which threatens the stability and security of our societies.”
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
H.E. Mr. Ralph E. Gonsalves, Prime Minister
26 September 2008
Multilateralism: “In all candor, I must reaffirm what you have already concluded: That the United Nations, as the supreme multilateral institution of a profoundly troubled and iniquitous world, can and must do more, in the form of decisive action, to improve the condition of our planet, the living conditions of the less fortunate, and the safety of our global family.”
Multilateralism: “The work that we have entrusted to the United Nations is compromised by apathy and inaction by too many of us, and the crippling pursuit of narrow selfinterest by a handful of powerful countries. We have, in this session, an historic opportunity to reassert the relevance and credibility of this body by keeping the promises that we have made to ourselves and the world.
“The United Nations is charged with tackling the weighty problems that beset the world, not with the refinement of the art of impotent diplomacy. I have no doubt that the principles concealed in the language of “mandate review,” “system wide coherence” and “revitalisation” are important, and doubly so to the professional diplomats who look inward rather than outward, and who lose sight of the forest for the trees, in their endless quest to choreograph the dancing of ever more angels on the head of a pin. But bureaucratese will neither excite nor engage the poor and marginalised people that we have created this body to serve. When our signature achievements and emphases are esoterically bureaucratic, it speaks to a broader failing of the United Nations to achieve the noble goals of its overarching mandate, as spelt out so compellingly in the preamble of its Charter.”
Small arms and light weapons and disarmament: “The geographic happenstance that has placed the innocent people of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in the path of increasingly intense storms has also located us unfortunately between the supply and demand that fuels much of the West’s narcotics trade. As a result, our scarce resources are increasingly being diverted to stem the tide of drugs and small arms flowing through our region. To the people of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, disarmament does not mean the eradication of nuclear weapons, which we lack the will and resources to build, but the elimination of small arms, which threaten to shoot holes in the fabric of our democracy and compromise the values of our civilisation. We are assailed by guns, which we do not build; and by deadly narcotics such as cocaine, which we do not produce. The United Nations must act to protect the innocent victims of the world from the scourge of small arms and light weapons.”
Multilateralism and militarism: “Mr. President, in recent months, I have been profoundly troubled by the creeping return of cold war rhetoric to the language of international and hemispheric discourse. In this globalised and interconnected world, it is no longer possible to divide the world in competing hemispheres, or to completely quarantine ideological friend from foe. We must guard against the return of discarded philosophies and learn from the recent past, in which developing countries were used as pawns and proxies for the hegemonic ambitions of others. Our multipolar experiment is too young for the developing and globalizing world to return to the old rhetoric and recriminations that invariably blossom into violence and death, most often visited on the peoples of developing countries. It is my sincere prayer that this august body hews closely to the principles of multilateralism and sovereign equality of all states, and resists any pressures for the United Nations to devolve into a playground for the triumphalist ambitions of presumptive superpowers.”
Samoa
H.E. The Honourable Tuila’epa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi, Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Finance
26 September 2008
Multilateralism: “The United Nations personifies multilateralism. It is a living testimony of the inter-governmental process at work.”
Multilateralism and terrorism: “Finally, those bent on creating fear and panic throughout the world will stop at nothing to achieve their aims. We must not be held hostage to their devious designs. Individually and collectively we must step up our efforts to combat the threat of international terrorism in its many manifestations. No country can succeed on its own. Only by working collaboratively can we be successful.”
San Marino
H.E. Mr. Fiorenzo Stolfi, Minister of Foreign and Political Affairs and Economic Planning with functions of Prime Minister
26 September 2008
War: “The United Nation’s role is of even greater necessity given present international conditions, marked by war between and inside nations. In fact as the 21st century begins, we are witnessing a series of new conflicts even more driven by economic interests – clashes of civilizations, both ethical and religious, that often occur within the same country.”
Peace: “The negative consequences of climate change represent a greater obstacle to achieve the Millennium Development Goals, and are a threat to international peace and the causes of the most severe humanitarian emergencies.”
Peace: “The Republic of San Marino has always been committed to the promotion of the principles of peaceful coexistence and the mutual respect between individuals and peoples, in the knowledge that understanding and mutual respect are prerequisites to peace and justice. The promotion of intercultural dialogue is a concrete tool for reaching these values and for affirming one of the United Nations’ guiding principles: peace founded on justice and international cooperation.”
Sao Tome and Principe
H.E. Mr. Fradique Bandeira Melo de Menezes, President
25 September 2008
No relevant references.
Senegal
H.E. Mr. Abdoulaye Wade, President
24 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Serbia
H.E. Mr. Boris Tadic, President
23 September 2008
Multilateralism: “However much the world has changed since 1945, the United Nations remains the only universal, intergovernmental institution that unites us as a global community of sovereign states.”
Multilateralism: “...my country remains ready to further promote a nobler form of intergovernmental cooperation—one that truly addresses challenges, alleviates divisions, and reduces tensions. Such a vision can only be built on the firm foundation of the universal principles of sovereign equality, solidarity and international law within the framework of the United Nations.”
Seychelles
H.E. Mr. James Alix Michel, President
25 September 2008
No relevant references.
Sierra Leone
H.E. Mr. Ernest Bai Koroma, President
25 September 2008
Multilateralism and peace: “The sacred duty of this Organization 'to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war' was tested in fire in Sierra Leone. But today Sierra Leone demonstrates what the United Nations can achieve when its Member States work closely together. The people of Sierra Leone know the value and relevance of the United Nations, and appreciate its continuing support as we reconstruct our society from war to peace, and work with determination to build a better future.”
Multilateralism: “The need to democratize and reform the Organization is of vital importance. However, reform is not an end in itself but a means to an end. We support a strong and effective United Nations that can meet the everincreasing and complex array of challenges in the 21 st century. We are convinced that a more representative and effective United Nations will strengthen the loyalty and commitment of Member States, and make the Organization more responsive to the needs of our time.”
Multilateralism, peace, and security: “The United Nations has been an important force for global peace, development, and justice. Sierra Leone’s peace and stability are due largely to United Nations peace keeping, a visible and an important aspect of the Organization’s work. The Peace Building Commission, the Peacebuilding Fund, and other United Nations agencies are helping us in critical ways to achieve our development priorities and to meet the challenges of postconflict reconstruction.”
Peace: “Without reconciliation, tolerance and the rule of law there can be no true and lasting peace.”
Peace, war, and security: “But we are the first to acknowledge that much more needs to be done to achieve sustainable peace and development. War and deadly conflicts have social and economic consequences long after the fighting has ended. A peaceful country requires more than the absence of war. Development remains the foremost need of Sierra Leoneans. Moreover, it is the foundation of security and it makes political rights meaningful. You can only be secure if you have food, shelter, clean water, and protection from disease. That is why the monumental task of poverty eradication is one of the national priorities of my Government.”
Peace and multilateralism: “The mission of the United Nations is more important than ever: to serve the cause of peace, to advance development, and to protect the human rights of all. The United Nations is a unique Forum where the weak and the strong, the poor and the prosperous can have their voices heard. Sierra Leone reaffirms its commitment to the ideals and principles of the United Nations, and will continue to be a constructive member of the Organization.”
Singapore
H.E. M. George Yeo, Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Who takes responsibility for the global system? While on paper the WTO with 153 members makes decisions by consensus, the reality is that a small group of countries has to take the lead to keep the multilateral trading system moving in the right direction. On no major issue confronting the human family can decisions be taken without the major countries taking the lead. The challenge of climate change, for example, cannot be tackled without the major emitters coining to some broad agreement on the way forward. If the Doha round despite being a positive sum game is so difficult to conclude; it is hard to be optimistic that a UN agreement on climate change can be negotiated quickly without the exercise of strong leadership by the US, Europe; Russia, China, India, Japan and Brazil, If they could not; or would not, exercise such leadership for global trade, can we expect them to do so for climate change?
“The emerging multipolar reality of the 21 century is a fact that we have to face squarely. International institutions like the UN can only function well when we accept this reality and work with it. As a small country, Singapore accepts that while every country, big or small, has one vote each, we do not all carry the same weight. Small countries need the UN and other International institutions to protect our interests and we therefore have every interest in making sure that these institutions are effective. They can only work well if the multipolar reality is taken into account. The Forum of Small States which is an informal grouping of more than half the UN’s membership takes a realistic view of global politics because this is the only way to secure our own interests. For this century to be a peaceful one, it is crucial for all countries, big and small, to adhere to the UN Charter and the international rule of law.
“However, the realpolitik of big power rivalry cannot be wished away for that indeed has been the human condition for most of history. But we can confine that rivalry and; by a combination of pressures, prevent any power from pushing its claim excessively. In this, international institutions like the UN play a civilizing role. International institutions cannot stop big power rivalry but can channel it, and ensure that the common interests of the human family are not completely disregarded. For this reason, the smaller countries have a strong vested interest in seeing international institutions strengthened. The reform of the UN taking into account the changes in the world since the end of the Second World War is an absolute necessity.”Multilateralism: “With globalisation, there has been a mushrooming of regional institutions around the world. Some have come 10 play useful roles in fostering regional peace and development. The UN and other international institutions can multiply their effectiveness by working closely with such regional institutions.”
Peace: “For development to take place, there must be peace. Without continuing peace in Asia, we will not be able to realize the promise of this century.”
Multilateralism: “We cannot stop rivalry among the big powers but we can limit the harm that rivalry does to smaller countries. In fact, smaller countries can turn the emerging multipolarity to advantage if we combine our strengths in regional and international institutions. Among these the most important is of course the UN.
“We still need global leadership but it has to be by a new concert of big powers going beyond the US; Europe and Japan. It has to be a new kind of leadership exercised in a transparent way through both hard and soft power, and preferably through regional and international institutions. Writing about the Beijing Olympics in the Wall Street Journal. Tony Blair recently said: ‘The truth is that nothing in the 21st century will work well without China's full engagement.’ The same can be said of Russia, India and Brazil. While the US will long remain dominant, a more inclusive global arrangement will make this a better and safer world for all of us.”
Slovakia
H.E Mr. Ján Kubis, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2008
Multilateralism: “The international community is increasingly confronted with old problems coupled with a new set of challenges of a truly global nature. And, as the UN SG Ban Ki-moon said at the opening session, under these circumstances we face another daunting challenge—a challenge of global leadership. We, the United Nations of the world, must indeed exercise our leadership, authority and responsibility under these increasingly complex circumstances, first of all here, at the United Nations, notably in the SC, but also the General Assembly, ECOSOC and other bodies. Cooperation among our countries and with international organizations must broaden. Real partnerships with private sector and civil society must be pursued more vigorously.”
Security: “Also, the notion of human security is a particularly promising concept within the United Nations to further advance the nexus among the three pillars of UN’s work: security, development and human rights.”
Peace and security: “Justice is a prerequisite for peace, security and development, not in contradiction with them.”
Militarism: “The world is unfortunately full of disputes, conflicts and crises. We consistently support their solution by negotiations and peaceful means with a central role of the UN, based on full respect for the principles of international law, notably those of sovereignty and territorial integrity and reject use of force and unilateral action.”
Terrorism: “Slovakia supports enhanced UN cooperation in implementing the UN Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy. To be more effective, we need an agreement on the UN Comprehensive Convention against International Terrorism (CCIT) as soon as possible.”
WMD, means of delivery: “The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery continues to pose a serious threat to international peace and security.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “We are in particular concerned about our inability to close the issue of the Iran nuclear program in a way that would be considered by all to be in conformity with non-proliferation regime.”
WMD: “We welcome the extension of the mandate of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1540. Cooperation with regional, sub-regional, other international organizations and functional bodies, as well as among various relevant UN organs remains essential to further facilitate implementation of resolution 1540 by member States.”
Multilateralism: “As has been stated by many distinguished speakers before me, the tasks confronting us in the year ahead are enormous. They can be accomplished only through our strong and sustained political commitment, working through multilateral mechanisms, with the UN at the centre. It is important that we all stand together united by the common purpose of collectively forging effective responses to all current global problems and challenges.”
Slovenia
H.E. Mr D.R Danilo Turk, President
24 September 2008
Terrorism: “Concerns related to security and counterterrorism seems to have contributed to a diminished care for human rights in some societies.”
Armed conflict: “Armed conflict continue to produce atrocities and massive violations of human rights.”
Security: “The third question relates to the maintenance of international peace and security and the necessary transformation in that area. Let me state right at the outset that there is a serious need for transformation of the existing institutions in the field of international security.
“The international security landscape of today offers a mixed picture. After the end of the cold war there were moments of high hopes and moments of deep disappointment.... But we also have to point out that the overall number of armed conflicts has been on decline for more than a decade now ... in no small measure due to the contribution of the UN which has steadily increased its experience and its capacity in the peacekeeping, in post-conflict peace-building and also in preventing diplomacy....
“Progress made so far has established a degree of confidence in the capacity of the international security structures and their key players to cooperate and even to work in partnership for the maintenance of international peace and security. However, it appears that the confidence developed so far is still fragile and that the remnants of the cold war mentality are still in existence.”
North Korea's nuclear programme: “Models of cooperation such as the one established to deal with the issues of North Korea can and should inspire preventive diplomacy and peacemaking in other parts of the world.”
Soloman Islands
H.E. Mr. Derek Sikua, Prime Minister
26 September 2008
Multilateralism and militarism: “This year our multilateral institution is being revisited by history and challenged by the changing international system. Unilateralism and changing postures by big powers is creating a new global order. New fronts are created is Asia, the Pacific, and Eastern Europe coupled with the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and in parts of Africa. Above all, the arms race is no longer a threat, but a reality.
“Our multilateral institution is heavy on providing technical support and analytical data and less on the ground activities. Regional and sub regional Intergovernmental organizations are also going the same direction, leaving countries to fend for themselves.”
Terrorism: “On the issue of terrorism, Solomon Islands is concerned about the lack of progress on the comprehensive terrorism convention. The absence of a legal definition of terrorism is creating gaps in our global fight against terror. We continue to condemn terrorism in whatever from and manifestation. We urge the international community to weed the evils that breed terrorism. Our fight against terrorism must be responsible and humane.”
Somalia
H.E. Mr. Ali Ahmed Jama Jengeli, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2008
Peace: “May I end by emphasizing the importance of conflict prevention, conflict resolution and conflict management not only in Somalia but also throughout Africa and the Developing world. If there IS no peace or security, it is hard to imagine that any meaningful socio-economic development could take place. It is not realistic to expect countries in a state of conflict to achieve all or any of the agreed upon Millennium Development Goals. Therefore it is incumbent upon ail Developing Countries, the United Nations and the UN Security Council to promote the conditions for effective development otherwise the development goats will appear as an exercise in wishful thinking.”
South Africa
H. E. Ms. Nkosazana C. Dlaminni Zuma, Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “It is important to understand that the critical issues facing the world today—the current financial, food and energy crises—cannot be addressed effectively when so many other countries and regions of the world are left out of the key decision making processes of important institutions of global governance.”
Multilateralism: “We wish to reiterate our belief in the centrality of the United Nations. In the Millennium Declaration we reaffirmed that the United Nations ‘is the indispensable common house of the entire human family, through which we will seek to realise our universal aspirations for peace, cooperation and development’.”
Multilateralism: “As the leadership of our country passes on, we reaffirm that South Africa, under the leadership of President Kgalema Motlanthe, shall indeed continue to be a trusted and dependable partner in the common endeavour to strengthen our institutions of multilateralism, moving from the correct premise that multilateralism remains the only hope in addressing challenges facing humanity today, at the centre of which is the struggle against poverty and underdevelopment.”
Spain
H.E. Mr. José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, President
25 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Sri Lanka
H.E. Mr Mahinda Rajapaksa, President
24 September 2008
Nuclear energy: “Sri Lanka’s own view is that the United Nations and its agencies must take the leadership in developing a framework for international cooperation so that the vulnerable developing countries have access to the energy benefits of the so called ‘nuclear renaissance’, at reasonable and affordable rates. This cooperative endeavour will impact positively in such diverse areas as energy, MDGs, climate change and even arms control.”
War: “With the promulgation of the UN Charter to save succeeding generations from the tragedy of war, at least the major threat of intercontinental war seems to have receded.”
Terrorism: “Today, the United Nations and its people are confronted with the fast spreading menace of terrorism that manifest itself in various forms in Asia, Africa and Latin America. The United Nations has a grave responsibility to save today’s and succeeding generations, from this new and continuing menace.”
Terrorism: “The steadily growing menace of international terrorism, with related activities such as smuggling of illegal arms, human trafficking, drug trafficking, money laundering, and business empires run by terror groups undoubtedly undermine the fundamentals of humanity and civilization. It appears that steps taken by us to eradicate these illegal activities have not been effective. This further complicates all national and international efforts at moving towards realizing MDGs. Terrorism, as I have emphasized many a time, by its very nature, rolls back even our modest achievements.”
Sri Lanka also commented extensively on its conflict with the LTTE.
Sudan
H.E. Mr. Ali Osman Mohamed Taha, Vice-President
25 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Suriname
H.E. Mr Runaldo Ronald Venetiaan, President
24 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Suriname has supported the restructuring process of the United Nations from the start, with the aim to achieving a more effective and efficient organization that should be better equipped to adequately address old and new challenges. In this process, we expect that the role of the United Nations as a partner in development will gain further relevance and achieve a more coherent and enhanced presence in support of capacity building and sustainable development.”
Multilateralism: “We have entered an era of growing anxieties and concerns, which go beyond national borders. The contemporary world constellation requires harmonization of the United Nations with current international developments. Suriname believes that the United nations should be given the tools and instruments to enable the Organization to address global challenges in support of a comprehensive and coherent development agenda, in the interest of all the nations of our world.”
Swaziland
His Majesty King Mswati III, Head of State
25 September 2008
Peace and security: “Mr. President, peace, stability and security which form the primary goals of the United Nations remain key pillars to meaningful development.”
Terrorism: “Mr. President, the Kingdom of eSwatini joins the rest of the world in condemning all forms and acts of terrorism. We support efforts for the full implementation of the global counterterrorism strategy in order to send out a clear message to all perpetrators of terrorism. In line with the United Nations convention on terrorism, our parliament has recently promulgated the antiterrorism act.”
Peace and multilateralism: “We treasure peace and development and amicable regional and international relations and together with all nations will work towards a peaceful and prosperous future for all humankind.”
Sweden
H.E. Mr. Anders Lidén, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2008
Terrorism: “To fight terrorism is to defend human rights. Human rights are key also to countering terrorism. Measures against terrorism will be effective and legitimate only when they are taken within a clear framework of international law.”
Iran and North Korea’s nuclear programmes: “We face a growing danger of nuclear proliferation. Iran is not the only case, though the most worrisome at present. Recent developments in the DPRK also give cause for concern.”
Non-proliferaton and disarmament, nuclear weapons: “The Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons is the cornerstone of nonproliferation and the foundation for the pursuit of nuclear disarmament. Sweden is strongly committed to upholding and further strengthening existing multilateral disarmament and non-proliferation obligations. The nuclear powers have taken on special commitments within the NPT process. In order not to undermine the treaty, they must demonstrate their readiness to substantially reduce their nuclear arsenals.”
Multilateralism: “This is the time to once again remind ourselves of our mutual commitments and stand up for the universal principles underpinning international cooperation. This is the time to muster the political will to reassert our shared values. This is the time to show that we are determined to work jointly to foster peace, democracy and development worldwide.”
Switzerland
H.E. Mr. Peter Maurer, Ambassador
29 September 2008
Peace: “Cooperation across cultural and religious borders is not always easy. Swiss history has shown that this is most likely to bear fruit when specific problems are tackled and solutions are sought in an open dialogue. This approach is reflected in Swiss peace policy we support projects whose purpose is to bring together people with different values and cultural backgrounds to enable them to coexist in a positive way. This approach also characterizes our activity in the UN-sponsored Alliance of Civilizations.”
Armed violence and development: “Conflict prevention is one of the central tasks of the UN. Switzerland is particularly active on two levels. First we wish to pay closer attention to the connection between ‘Armed Violence and Development’. Together with other partners we intend to present a resolution on this subject during this session of the General Assembly.”
Peace: “Justice is a requirement for lasting peace. Or in other words peace and impunity are incompatible in the long run.”
Peace and multilateralism: “Peace is not a given. It is something that has to be striven for and achieved every day. The UN is the predestined institution for achieving this goal. We are willing, within our capacities, to make a contribution to this necessary collective task.”
Syrian Arab Republic
H.E. M. Walid Al-Moualem, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Peace and multilateralism: “By calling for convening this quartet summit, Syria stressed that the just and comprehensive peace is its strategic choice and that it is striving to attain it in cooperation with regional and international partners who share Syria's vision. The realization of peace requires from all those who have a direct stake in the matter, or those who have the power or who can influence the outcomes to evince the necessary political will. Years after the will to make peace lost its priority status in policies that do influence the situation in the region we were asked to go to Annapolis…. As President Bashar Al-Assad said, we wanted the negotiations to establish the grounds and pave the way for direct negotiations that would ultimately be sponsored by several international parties. This however requires a genuine Israeli will capable of accommodating the exigencies of peace-making.”
Terrorism: “We have condemned and continue to condemn all the terrorist acts that have a high roll among innocent civilians in Iraq.”
Nuclear energy and Iran's nuclear programme: “The Treaty on the Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons guaranteed the right of all states in possessing nuclear technologies for peaceful purposes. Much was said about the Iranian nuclear issue, with some advocating a diplomatic solution and others promoting the use of force. Meanwhile, Iran has time and again stressed that it is solely dedicated to the peaceful uses of nuclear power. Deep mistrust between Iran and its interlocutors complicates matters and prevents stakeholders from reaching an understanding. This is what we are trying to do. We are seeking to arrive at a political understanding of the Iranian nuclear issue. Any other option shall not be in the interest of anyone and shall inflict catastrophic losses on the region and the world.”
WMD Free Zone in the Middle East: “In this context, and in line with our principled position, we call for declaring the Middle East a zone free from all weapons of mass destruction. We recall in this regard the resolution that Syria submitted to the Security Council on October 29, 2003. We at the same time stress the need for compelling Israel to dismantle the hundreds of the nuclear warheads in its possession, to put its nuclear facilitates under the safeguard regime of the IAEA and to adhere to the NPT.”
Terrorism: “Much was said about the war on terror. Years after waging this war, we must ask though, is terrorism less widespread today than it was before? What victory can we claim over this extremely dangerous phenomenon? Accusing countries, for political motives, of sponsoring terrorism is a desperate attempt to justify the failure of the approach pursued by those promoting those claims. In our view, the right approach requires addressing the root causes of terrorism. How can we overcome terrorism if we continue to mix up terrorism with the right of the human being to live on his land free from occupation or threat of war and aggression? We call upon all states to cooperate in the fight against terrorism. We particularly stress the need to avoid mixing up terrorism with fundamental rights because it does a service to terrorism and gives it an opportunity to strike.”
Multilateralism: “The experience of previous years proved that unilaterally dictating the world's political agenda is wrong. The wars and the financial and food crises raging through out the world today require that we work together to address this malfunction through an approach that seeks to engage all regional and international stakeholders through an active diplomacy using dialogue as the means and ways to settle controversial questions.
“Closing the door to dialogue, imposing isolation, unilateral sanctions and diktat have never been a successful tool in the exercise of sound international relations. Contrary to claims made from this very rostrum a couple of days ago, all attempts of isolation were doomed to failure. Respect for the principle of democracy in international relations that takes into account the vision and interests of all states, large and small, will contribute to the realization of peace and stability in the world and help it solve the problems it is facing. The Charter of our international organization, in which states of different perspectives and interests enjoy equal membership, has set forth formulas that remain valid. They could be used to build a world in which justice will reign supreme based on mutual understanding, free from the threat of terror, a world in which there is not place for inciting hatred among cultures and religions. Promoting these values and objectives and using them as the guiding principle for our work will serve the interest of peace and stability in the world and will contribute to the good of humanity at large.”
Tajikistan
H.E. Mr. Emomali Rahmon, President
25 September 2008
Multilateralism: “We believe that there is an urgent need to efficiently develop a dialogue and cooperation among all the entities of the multipolar world, and to avoid application of double standards in the international practice.”
Multilateralism and terrorism: “Not a single country in the world, even the most powerful one, is capable of meeting single handedly the challenges of our time that range from climate change to uncompromising combat against international terrorism. Nowadays, like never before, the new generation of global issues requires a collective response, and the UN, entrusted with a broad mandate, is the only one existing instrument capable of addressing them.”
Terrorism: “The situation in Afghanistan devastated by a long conflict and violence, gives rise to a grounded concern. Afghanistan needs not only increased military presence on its territory but rather a target economic, technical and humanitarian assistance. Experience show that often military actions aimed at combating terrorist groups are fare less effective than thoroughly thought non-violent political and economic measures.”
Terrorism: “The global system on counteracting terrorism, transnational organized crime and illicit drug trafficking, which is currently being shaped, can not be built without the support from the regional organizations.”
Peace: “To strengthen peace and stability the countries that lived through internal conflict need not only humanitarian assistance but also actual assistance in dealing with their economic and social problems, as well as support of their efforts aimed at establishing a foundational essential for transition to sustainable development.”
Timor-Leste
H.E. Mr. José Ramos-Horta, President
25 September 2008
No relevant references.
Togo
H.E. Mr. Kofi Esaw, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration
27 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Tonga
H.E. Dr. Feleti Vaka’uta Sevele, Prime Minister
26 September 2008
Multilateralism: “In our globalized world, no sovereign nation can achieve its goals of progress, peace and security on its own, and neither can the Kingdom of Tonga. Constructive and active engagement in regional and international affairs through bilateral and multilateral cooperation mechanisms, with the United Nations at the center, and greater, yet appropriate, integration into the global economy will thus continue to be the cornerstone of Tonga’s foreign policy.
“As a member of the United Nations, Tonga wishes to reaffirm its commitment to continuing its active involvement in the work of the United Nations as the central coordinating body of common efforts of the family of nations to which we all belong.”
Trinidad and Tobago
H.E. Ms. Paula Gopee-Scoon, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Terrorism: “Similarly, Mr. President, like poverty and hunger, terrorism remains a major scourge on our societies and poses a dire threat to democratic institutions. It undermines the rule of law, infringes human rights and generally affects the well-being of its victims. Trinidad and Tobago is convinced that members of the international community must embrace multilateral solutions in the fight against terrorism. We remain committed to the Global Counter Terrorism Strategy, which is complementary to our own efforts to combat terrorism.”
Small arms and light weapons, disarmament, Arms Trade Treaty: “The Caribbean also falls pretty to the nefarious trade in narcotics, to which is linked the illegal proliferation of small arms and light weapons. In an effort to confront these challenges, we have concluded with out neighbors the CARICOM Maritime and Air Space Security Cooperation Agreement to protect our borders from illegal activities. We, however, recognize the important role of the United Nations, as the multilateral forum, in providing assistance in areas such as capacity building to augment our own resources. For the States of Caribbean, a critical aspect of disarmament is the eradication of the illegal trade in small arms. Trinidad and Tobago, therefore, calls for urgent action to compete the work on the elaboration of an Arms Trade Treaty.”
Multilateralism: “In conclusion, Trinidad and Tobago wishes to reaffirm its faith and commitment to multilateralism, both at the regional, hemispheric and international levels. Dialogue among States must always be the preferred option to solve the myriad [of] problems, which we face in an increasingly complex international environment. It is in recognition of this importance that Trinidad and Tobago has taken the bold decision to host, in 2009, both the Summit of the Americas and the Conference of Heads of Government of the Commonwealth of Nations. Dialogue in these two bodies, which are microcosms of the United Nations, could also influence discussions at the United Nations, an institution which we must continue to transform, guard and protect in order to bequeath to future generations.”
Tunisia
H.E. M. Abdelwaheb Abdallah, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Multilateralism, peace, and security: “Tunisia supports all efforts and initiatives aimed at establishing new frameworks and mechanisms of action that can help find collective solutions to the common challenges posed in the vital fields of security, peace, development, the environment and food security, as part of an adequate approach to international relations founded on the complementarity between peace, security, and development. This, however, should be accompanied by a strengthened multilateral action on the basis of cooperation, solidarity, and a constructive dialogue among all countries.”
Multilateralism and terrorism: “The aggravation of the terrorism problem in the world, despite the efforts to contain it, reinforces our conviction of the need to unify the international approach to fight this scourge and find adequate solutions to it. Tunisia has warned, since the early 1990s, the international community against the dangers of terrorism, and called for the adoption of a comprehensive and efficient approach that takes into consideration the root causes of this scourge. Today, we renew the call of H.E. President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali to convene an international conference, under the United Nations auspices, in order to elaborate a code of conduct for the fight against terrorism, to which all parties shall commit themselves.”
Peace: “We reaffirm Tunisia’s commitment to the values of peace and to the principles of international legality as the path to reaching just and lasting solutions to pending international issues. We also renew our determination to promote the values of moderation, tolerance, and mutual respect in relations among countries and peoples, and to establish bridges of communication and dialogue between all civilizations, cultures, and religions.”
Peace: “Throughout the various development plans, Tunisia persevered in its endeavor for development and modernization, in order to strengthen its capacity to keep up with international changes and actively contribute to building a world of peace and security and establishing more balanced and solidarity-based international relations.”
Multilateralism: “Keen on achieving a higher degree of integration within its regional and international environments, Tunisia is pursuing its action, on the bilateral and multilateral levels, to open up on the various spaces to which it belongs, and to develop its political relations with sisterly and friendly countries and with regional and international organizations. It also endeavors to enlarge and diversify the scope of cooperation with them, in order to raise these relations to the level of an effective partnership based on mutual respect and common interests.”
Multilateralism: “Facing the challenges posed by the new international situation and the deep changes taking place on the world scene requires that we all step up efforts to further anchor the noble universal principles and humanist values on which the United Nations was founded. It also requires perseverance in enhancing the process of reforming our Organization, in order to confer more efficiency on its work and ensure its active contribution to providing optimum international conditions that can help find collective solutions to common challenges and current international issues, meet our peoples’ aspirations for stability, and provide propitious conditions for prosperity and well-being, within a context of cooperation and solidarity-based development.”
Turkey
H.E. Mr. Abdullah Gül, President
23 September 2008
Terrorism: “We will also continue our initiatives to create an atmosphere conducive to regional ownership and cooperation, in particular between Pakistan and Afghanistan. That is equally vital for the common struggle against terrorism and for the stability of the region.”
Iran's nuclear programme: “Finally, an urgent and peaceful settlement of the question of Iran’s nuclear program in conformity with the IAEA norms and NPT obligations, respecting the right to peaceful use of nuclear energy, remains high on Turkey’s active diplomatic agenda.”
Turkmenistan
H.E. M. Rashid Meredov, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2008
Multilateralism: “At the present stage the United Nations Organization, which Is called under its mandate to discuss and resolve issues relating to the maintenance of international peace and security, is going through one of the most critical moments in the history of its existence. This is especially evident against the background of the developments that are happening today both at the global and regional level. Diversity of the entire spectrum of contemporary challenges and threats calls for an adequate development of the entire range of approaches to their prevention through interaction of all UN member stales.”
Terrorism and WMD: “Today we need real measures for countering and fighting such global challenges as international terrorism, human trafficking, organized crime, illegal drug trafficking and the threat of proliferation of the weapons of mass destruction.”
Multilateralism and terrorism: “Turkmenistan is a principled and active participant in the process designed to identify joint actions aimed at resolving the most pressing problems of our time. In this context we regard the need to intensify international actions aimed at ensuring peace and security as one of the first priority tasks. Fight against terrorism is one of the most important aspects of this problem.”
Terrorism: “Turkmenistan as a party to major instruments adopted by the United Nations with a view to combat international terrorism and organized crime supports United Nations efforts aimed at developing a global strategy to fight terrorism and stands ready to provide its practical assistance to the international community in this regard.”
WMD, non-proliferation, Nuclear Weapon Free Zone in Central Asia: “Non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is a pressing issue of international agenda thai is connected with ensuring peace and security. Our country plays an active role in identifying nonproliferation measures and takes practical steps for their implementation both at the national and international levels. As a party to the Comprehensive Treaty on Nuclear Non-Proliferation and other most important international legal instruments in this sphere Turkmenistan joined the international initiative aimed at preventing proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. In this connection the signing of the Treaty on Establishing a Nuclear-Free Zone in Central Asia which was prepared and adopted under the aegis of the United Nations has become an important element in the efforts of the world community aimed at resolving this issue.”
Multilateralism: “Today we all face the need to take a fresh look at the existing system for ensuring international peace and security. Present day situation and emerging tendencies call for an adequate approach and formulation of comprehensive measures and member states of the Community of Nations should take part in their implementation. I am confident that ongoing discussions and deliberations at the General Assembly session will provide an opportunity to take stock of the entire panorama of contemporary world through the prism of ensuring safe life for states and peoples.... Turkmenistan stands for close cooperation with the United Nations in executing comprehensive measures for collective interaction in order to deal with the most pressing issues of our times.”
Peace: “Turkmenistan advocates that the Caspian area should be a zone of peace, stability and effective international cooperation on the basis of principles of mutual respect and mutually beneficial partnership.”
Multilateralism: “We view the United Nations as a universal international organization serving as the main guarantor of the global security system, the framework of present and future world order. We advocate that international law, UN Charter and their principles of respect for the sovereignty of every nation and its choice of its own way of development and non-interference in the internal affairs should remain the basis of the world order and the Alpha and Omega of relations among nations.”
Tuvalu
H.E. Mr. Apisai Ielemia, Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Labour
26 September 2008
No relevant references.
Uganda
H.E. Mr. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda
23 September 2008
No relevant references.
Ukraine
H.E. Mr. Victor Yushchenko, President
24 September 2008
Security: “We call for the strengthening of the Security Council role - the only body which as an exclusive authority in issues of peace and security.”
Terrorism and WMD: “Ukraine will keep an eye on the whole range of common tasks: [including] international terrorism and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.”
United Arab Emirates
H.E. Mr. Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Terrorism: “In addition, we believe that providing education for all is one of the major issues that faces us. It is essential that the adequate resources are allocated to it, since in the process of education lies the hope that we can break the evil cycle represented by poverty and ignorance that, in turn, leads to the creation of fertile soil in which terrorism and extremism can take root and grow.”
WMD Free Zone in the Middle East, Iran’s nuclear programme: “We emphasize our belief in the Importance of the Middle East and the Arabian Gulf becoming demilitarized zones, especially with regards to weapons of mass destruction. We reaffirm our belief in the necessity for Israel to be obliged to comply with United Nations resolutions by bringing its nuclear facilities into compliance with the safeguards regime of the International Atomic Energy Agency and to sign, unconditionally, the Nuclear Weapons Non-Proliferation Treaty. We also urge the Islamic Republic of Iran to continue its collaboration with the IAEA and the international community, so as to dispel concerns and suspicions related to the nature and objectives of its nuclear programme. At the same time, we urge other concerned parties to commit themselves to continue the current political and diplomatic approach in tackling this issue, within a framework of complete transparency and avoiding any escalation, until such time as a peaceful solution is achieved that is capable of providing peace and security for the region and its peoples.”
Nuclear energy: “Pursuant to our firm conviction of the undeniable right of countries to develop nuclear energy for peaceful purposes in accordance with the safeguards framework of the IAEA, we urge the developed nations to support the legitimate needs of developing countries for access to such energy by providing them with the best possible access for the acquiring of tools, devices, nuclear materials and the technological know-how applicable for peaceful purposes. In this context, the UAE believes that its peaceful nuclear programme represents a practical and responsible example of transparency for meeting our energy needs while, at the same time, committing ourselves not to engage in enrichment or re-processing, with the support of some friendly countries and organizations, and under the supervision of the IAEA.”
Terrorism: “We express our satisfaction at the positive developments in relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan, and view this partnership as a major component in the fight against terrorism.”
Terrorism: “My country has collaborated effectively with all efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms, including financial aspects as such as money laundering. We will continue to do this, in order to rid the world of the epidemic of terrorism and to obliterate those forces that engage in it or support it. At the same time, we re-emphasize our support for all those initiatives that are being undertaken to promote a dialogue between civilizations and to promote a spirit of tolerance between faiths.”
United Kingdom
H.E. Mr. Gordon Brown, Prime Minister
26 September 2008
Multilateralism: “The world we share is more interconnected than ever before. And the solutions have to be similarly co-ordinated.”
Multilateralism: “The United Nations is where the world turns to confront some of its greatest challenges. It is where international law is made. Where the most acute political problems are addressed. And where the hopes of the world for a better future ultimately rest.”
United States of America
H.E. Mr. George W. Bush, President
23 September 2008
North Korea and Iran's nuclear programmes: “We must remain vigilant against proliferation –- by fully implementing the terms of Security Council Resolution 1540, and enforcing sanctions against North Korea and Iran. We must not relent until our people are safe from this threat to civilization.”
Terrorism: “We have an obligation to prevent our territory from being used as a sanctuary for terrorism and proliferation.”
Terrorism and multilateralism: “Multilateral organizations have responsibilities. For eight years, the nations in this assembly have worked together to confront the extremist threat. We witnessed successes and setbacks, and through it all a clear lesson has emerged: The United Nations and other multilateral organizations are needed more urgently than ever. To be successful, we must be focused and resolute and effective. Instead of only passing resolutions decrying terrorist attacks after they occur, we must cooperate more closely to keep terrorist attacks from happening in the first place. Instead of treating all forms of government as equally tolerable, we must actively challenge the conditions of tyranny and despair that allow terror and extremism to thrive. By acting together to meet the fundamental challenge of our time, we can lead toward a world that is more secure, and more prosperous, and more hopeful.
“In the decades ahead, the United Nations and other multilateral organizations must continually confront terror. This mission requires clarity of vision. We must see the terrorists for what they are: ruthless extremists who exploit the desperate, subvert the tenets of a great religion, and seek to impose their will on as many people as possible. Some suggest that these men would pose less of a threat if we'd only leave them alone. Yet their leaders make clear that no concession could ever satisfy their ambitions. Bringing the terrorists to justice does not create terrorism -- it's the best way to protect our people.
“Multilateral organizations must respond by taking an unequivocal moral stand against terrorism. No cause can justify the deliberate taking of innocent human life –- and the international community is nearing universal agreement on this truth. The vast majority of nations in this assembly now agree that tactics like suicide bombing, hostage-taking and hijacking are never legitimate. The Security Council has passed resolutions declaring terror unlawful and requiring all nations to crack down on terrorist financing. And earlier this month, the Secretary General held a conference to highlight victims of terror, where he stated that terrorism can never be justified.
“Other multilateral organizations have spoken clearly, as well. The G8 has declared that all terrorist acts are criminal and must be universally condemned. And the Secretary General of the Organization of the Islamic Conference recently spoke out against a suicide bombing, which he said runs counter to the teachings of Islam. The message behind these statements is resolutely clear: Like slavery and piracy, terrorism has no place in the modern world.
“Around the globe, nations are turning these words into action. Members of the United Nations are sharing intelligence with one another, conducting joint operations, and freezing terrorist finances. While terrorists continue to carry out attacks like the terrible bombing in Islamabad last week, our joint actions have spared our citizens from many devastating blows.
“With the brutal nature of the extremists increasingly clear, the coalition of nations confronting terror is growing stronger. Over the past seven years, Afghanistan and Iraq have been transformed from regimes that actively sponsor terror to democracies that fight terror. Libya has renounced its support for terror and its pursuit of nuclear weapons. Nations like Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are actively pursuing the terrorists. A few nations –- regimes like Syria and Iran –- continue to sponsor terror. Yet their numbers are growing fewer, and they're growing more isolated from the world.
“As the 21st century unfolds, some may be tempted to assume that the threat has receded. This would be comforting; it would be wrong. The terrorists believe time is on their side, so they made waiting out civilized nations part of their strategy. We must not allow them to succeed. The nations of this body must stand united in the fight against terror. We must continue working to deny the terrorists refuge anywhere in the world, including ungoverned spaces. We must remain vigilant against proliferation –- by fully implementing the terms of Security Council Resolution 1540, and enforcing sanctions against North Korea and Iran. We must not relent until our people are safe from this threat to civilization.
“To uphold the Charter's promise of peace and security in the 21st century, we must also confront the ideology of the terrorists. At its core, the struggle against extremists is a battle of ideas. The terrorists envision a world in which religious freedom is denied, women are oppressed, and all dissent is crushed. The nations of this chamber must present a more hopeful alternative—a vision where people can speak freely, and worship as they choose, and pursue their dreams in liberty.”
“The extremists find their most fertile recruiting grounds in societies trapped in chaos and despair –- places where people see no prospect of a better life. In the shadows of hopelessness, radicalism thrives. And eventually, that radicalism can boil over into violence and cross borders and take innocent lives across the world.”
“The objectives I've laid out for multilateral institutions -- confronting terror, opposing tyranny, and promoting effective development -- are difficult, but they are necessary tasks. To have maximum impact, multilateral institutions must take on challenging missions. And like all of us in this chamber, they must work toward measurable goals, be accountable for their actions, and hold true to their word.”
Uruguay
H.E. Dr. Gonzalo Fernandez, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uruguay
27 September 2008
Multialteralism: “That’s why we understand that it is relevant to reaffirm, the importance that has acquired its effective use in the present international context and to emphasize, once again, the traditional Uruguayan position of unrestricted respect to international law, its support to multilateralism...”
Terrorism: “While renewing its firm commitment in the fight against terrorism, Uruguay reiterates its rejection to all terrorist attacks. We fully condemn all attacks against civil population as well as attacks against infrastructure whose destruction directly or indirectly affects civil population. Terrorism must be clearly condemned. We must increase cooperation among States with the aim to prevent that such attacks remain unpunished but at the same time making sure that the fight against terrorism is based on the Rule of Law and with due respect to international humanitarian law and human rights law.”
Multilateralism: “...the support of multilateralism implies the search of collective answers to international conflicts and problems, in accordance with the international law and within the framework of the principles of the UN Charter, that regulate the peaceful coexistence among nations.”
Uzbekistan
H.E. Mr. Vladimir Norov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
No relevant references.
Vanuatu
H.E. Mr. Kalkot Matas Kelekele, President
26 September 2008
No relevant references.
Venezuela
H.E. Mr. Francisco Javier Arias Cardenas, Deputy Foreign Minister
29 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Viet Nam
H.E. M. Pham Gia Khiem, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Peace and terrorism: “While the trend of peace, cooperation and development continued to prevail, there have been complex developments in the world during the last year. Enduring local conflicts and acts of terrorism still occurred in many parts of the world and new tension has emerged in Europe, including in the Balkans and the Caucasus.”
Iran and North Korea's nuclear programmes, nuclear enegy, non-proliferation: “We should also work to facilitate further progress in the search for lasting peaceful solutions to the nuclear issues on the Korean Peninsular and Iran on the basis of due respect for both the legitimate rights of states to develop and use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes and the regime of non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.”
Peace: “As leaders of the world gathered here to discuss the development needs of Africa, we realized clearly the organic relationship between peace and development... Viet Nam undertakes to work closely with the United Nations and the African Union to find peaceful solutions to conflicts and disputes that are still raging on in this continent.”
Yemen
H.E. Mr. Abubakr Al-Qirbi, Minister of Foreign Affairs
29 September 2008
Waiting translation.
Zambia
H.E. Mr. Kabinga Jacus Pande, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2008
Multilateralism: “There is no doubt that the United Nations continues to remain the only multilateral institution capable of addressing challenges to our ‘One World’.”
Zimbabwe
H.E. Mr. Robert Mugabe, President
25 September 2008
Multilateralism: “Zimbabwe has always been and continues to be a firm believer in multilateral approaches to solving disputes as opposed to the unilateralism favoured by some countries. Our experience has shown that the cooperative and pacific approach often leads to lasting solutions to conflicts. We therefore deplore the vindictive approach which often is characterized by self-righteous finger-pointing, double standards and the imposition of unilateral sanctions to coerce smaller and weaker countries to bow to the wishes of militarily stronger states. In addition, the unilateral and coercive economic measures, that we have witnessed in recent years, are again completely at cross purposes with the principles that guide international co-operation as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations.”
Multilateralism: “We share the view that the General Assembly, a body that represents all of us and enjoys the wider representation of States, must continue to be the supreme decision-making body of the U.N.”
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