UNGA Disarmament Index 2009
This is an index of all references made to issues of disarmament, peace, and security, made in the 64th General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly from 23–29 September 2009. 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 of the United Nations
H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon
23 September 2009
Multilateralism: “If there ever were a time to act in the spirit of renewed multilateralism—a moment to create a United Nations of genuine collective action—it is now.”
Nuclear Disarmament: “Second—let this be the year that nations united to free our world of nuclear weapons. For too long, this great cause has lain dormant. That is why, last October, I proposed a 5-point plan for putting disarmament back on the global agenda. And now the international climate is changing. The Russian Federation and the United States have pledged to cut their nuclear arsenals. This coming May, at the UN Review Conference on the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, we have opportunity to push for real progress.
Tomorrow’s historic Security Council summit—chaired by the President of the United States, with us for the first time—offers a fresh start. With action now, we can get the ratifications to bring the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty into force. Together, let us make this the year we agreed to banish the bomb.”
President of the General Assembly: Opening Remarks
H.E. Dr. Ali Abdussalam Treki
23 September 2009
Peace, security, WMD: “The international community is faced with multiples crises and enormous challenges. These include the challenges of international peace and security which continue to threaten peace in various parts of the world through protracted inter-states conflicts, civil wars, weapons of mass destruction, terrorism and organized transnational crimes.”
Disarmament and non-proliferation: “The set-backs to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals, the economic, financial, food and energy crisis, disarmament and non-proliferation issues are all challenges that form the backdrop of the sixty-forth session of the General Assembly.”
Multilateralism: “Let me be clear about one important issue. These challenges can only be addressed through international cooperation among states. They can only be addressed through a well-function multi-lateral system. Multilateralism is the way forward to address global common-shared problems and it is also the only way to ensure effective and collective action.”
“The United Nations is the embodiment of multilateralism. It is therefore the most legitimate forum for ensuring concerted global action.”
“An effective and credible rule-based multilateral system requires an energized and reformed United Nations.”
“As President of the General Assembly, I commit to work with all Member States to ensure effective responses to global crises: strengthening multilateralism and dialogue among civilizations for international peace, security and development.”
President of the General Assembly: Closing Remarks
H.E. Dr. Ali Abdussalam Treki
29 September 2009
Multilateralism: “As the main theme for this debate, I had suggested that we reflect on ‘Effective responses to global crises — strengthening multilateralism and dialogue among civilizations for international peace, security and development’. I am glad that this topic has catalyzed important policy discussion. Throughout our debate we have heard a clear call for dialogue, and a willingness to act together. It is evident that the greatest challenges facing us today span the entire globe and cannot be solved by one country, a small group or one region alone. Our increasing inter-dependence calls for concerted and united responses to these challenges based on common understanding, enhanced international cooperation and shared responsibilities. I welcome a new era of engagement based on mutual interests and mutual respect and a more just and democratic world order with equal participation of sovereign Member States. The vision of nations uniting to face common challenges is at the core of the United Nations. I am heartened that inside this hall, as well as outside, in the various meetings and events on the sidelines, there was a renewed commitment to promoting effective and inclusive multilateralism.”
“Through multilateralism and dialogue, we can collectively achieve all these. goals. We will need to work efficiently, with civility, discipline and a readiness to compromise for the greater good. I want to assure you that I intend to conduct this work with transparency, fairness and respect for the General Assembly's central and crucial role in the United Nations.”
Disarmament, WMD, Nuclear Weapons: “Disarmament remains a clear priority for Member States. There is also widely shared concern about the proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction, as a threat to international peace and security. We have heard passionate calls for a world free of nuclear arms. I am encouraged by the willingness of Member States to engage constructively with the Review Conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Let us all work together to ensure equal security for all.”
Peace and Security: “Member States were unanimous in their view that peace and security was intricately linked to sustainable development.”
European Union
H.E. Mr. Fredrik Reinfeldt, Prime Minister of Sweden
23 September 2009
Multilateralism: “We welcome the declared wish of the United States to work together with others in multilateral institutions. This opens the door to a promising new era in international cooperation.”
“The people of the world need to know that uniting nations is not a work of the past, but of the future. Carried forward by shared values and by mutual respect. Ever more relevant with increased globalisation.”
WMD, peace, security, non-proliferation, nuclear terrorism: “Twenty years after the end of the cold war, peace and security is still threatened by the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction; by the fact that these weapons risk falling into the wrong hands.”
Non-proliferation: “We also welcome the Global Nuclear Security Summit which will take place next year.”
North Korea’s nuclear programme: “We strongly urge the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to renounce nuclear weapons and we stand ready to engage in this matter.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “The Iranian nuclear issue represents a major challenge to international peace and security, to regional stability and to the non-proliferation regime. Iran must regain the trust of the international community, comply with relevant Security Council resolutions and contribute to peace in the Middle East.”
Peace: “The Swedish statesman and former UN Secretary-General, Dag Hammarskjold, once said: ‘The pursuit of peace and progress, with its trials and its errors, its successes and its setbacks, can never be relaxed and never abandoned
African Union
H.E. Colonel Muammar Al-Qadhafi, Leader of the Revolution of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
23 September 2009
No relevant references.
Afghanistan
H.E. Mr. Rangin Dâdfar Spantâ, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Multilateralism / WMD / arms race: "Strengthening and restructuring UN agencies remains pivotal in closing the gap between the objectives of the charter and the realities of the world. The UN is not a forum for lip service. It must embody the ideals of the charter by providing political and moral direction and leadership. In our increasingly interdependent world and the multilaterally-oriented international system, the UN must assume greater responsibility for finding collective solutions to our challenges. The world, particularly developing nations, is faced with threats of poverty, underdevelopment, environmental degradation, extremism, fundamentalism, terrorism, cultural prejudice, spread of weapons of mass destruction and arms races. Rather than just managing and reacting to problems, the UN must find ways to address the structural causes of the world's problems and conflicts."
Albania
H.E. Mr. Sali Berisha, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
No relevant references.
Algeria
H.E. Mr. Abdelaziz Bouteflika, President
23 September 2009
Nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, disarmament machinery: “... a spirit of compromise and solidarity is needed. However, positions of developed countries still motivated by narrow national interests while they are posing a threat to humanity as a whole. This is also the case of the primordial aims of non-proliferation and disarmament, which are hostage to a double-standard policy of discriminatory measures and of the non-compliance, especially by certain nuclear powers. These practices have also not spared the multilateral negotiation frameworks, which nevertheless enjoy legitimacy and which have the necessary expertise to see achievements on the path to reinforcing the aims of non-proliferation and disarmament.”
Andorra
H.E. Mr. Xavier Espot Miró, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Institutional Relations
26 September 2009
No relevant references.
Angola
H.E. Mr. Assunçaõ Afonso dos Anjos, Minister for External Relations
28 September 2009
Arms Trade: “It is worthwhile adding that the Security Council should continue to fund UN operations for peace and security in Africa and support the efforts of African states in combatting drug trafficking, illicit arms trade, piracy and terrorism.”
Small Arms: “It seems important to emphasize that the strategy of conflict prevention and resolution, particularly the mandate of peacekeeping missions, cannot be separate from measures to combat organized and transnational crime and the relationship between the illegal exploitation of natural resources and illegal trade in small arms.”
Disarmament: “These challenges add to the list of others to which our organization must also devote great attention, especially the lack of decisions on disarmament, the persistence of armed conflicts and the consequences of these conflicts in the lives of people.”
Antigua and Barbuda
H.E. The Honourable Winston Baldwin Spencer, Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
25 September 2009
Small Arms and Light Weapons: “Mr. President, transnational crime has burdened our societies with social and financial costs that we cannot afford to bear. Crime prevention and small arms control is a priority for my government. Our geography has placed us at a major trans-shipment point for transnational organized crime networks, trafficking in arms and narcotics.
“In recent years the level of gun violence and gun related crimes has escalated significantly, placing further pressure on an already fragile economy. This has led to insecurity, fear and loss of life in our societies, hampering our development efforts and threatening the general peace and stability of the region. We need greater cooperation from countries as well as the support of the UN system to eliminate this threat to hemispheric and international peace and security.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “Antigua and Barbuda is in full support of a legally binding Arms Trade Treaty that will prevent the illegal international transfer of arms and which will govern the trade in conventional arms according to common international standards.”
Nuclear Disarmament and Non-Proliferation: “Mr. President, as a peace-loving nation Antigua and Barbuda is also concerned by the lack of progress in the field of disarmament and nonproliferation. We remain steadfast in our commitment to a world free of nuclear weapons.”
WMD: “The threat posed by non-state actors acquiring weapons of mass destruction is shared by all countries/ large and small. For this reason we support the extension of the mandate of Security Council resolution 1540. Pursuant to our obligations under this resolution, we are pleased to have submitted the relevant reports to the respective Security Council Committees.”
Nuclear Waste: “Mr. President, the transhipment of nuclear waste through the waters of the Caribbean also remains a critical issue. The risk of an accident or a terrorist attack on one of these shipments poses a grave threat to the environmental and economic sustainability of the region. Heads of Government of CARICOM and of the wider Association of Caribbean States (ACS) have consistently called for a total cessation of these shipments in our waters, and we reiterate our strenuous and forceful rejection of the continued use of the Caribbean Sea for the transhipment of nuclear and other hazardous waste material.”
Argentina
H.E. Mrs. Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, President
23 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Multilateralism would also mean understanding that we have to set common and general rules in this global world that must be accepted by all countries.”
“Defining multilateralism is going to require on the part of all of us, actions and concrete rules so that all of us will have the same parameters when it comes time to judge conduct, attitudes, as well as international situations.”
“... clear need to look at multilateralism not only as a type of rhetorical statement which is repeated every year in for a such as this or in multilateral for a, but rather it should lead to effective results, because otherwise it is going to be increasingly complicated. As we can see, we have more and more problems that are unresolved because in a final analysis, multilateralism that we have been proclaiming will inevitably since 2003 has not been practiced.”
“Quite sincerely, we are convinced that we need to build a new type of multilateralism, where we are all on a equal footing, where the manual of the course to follow and the obligations and rights should be the same for poor countries and rich countries. And the rights and responsibilities of developing nations should also be the same. Therefore we concede of this need for equal rules of the game for the whole game as one of the basic conditions for needing to succeed in building multilateralism. If we don’t achieve this, we will continue with this rhetorical exercise year after year perhaps without achieving the results that are no longer a right but an obligation for all of us who make up this body. ... Democracy, human rights, similar rules for all countries of the world, these are three keys in order to build a new multilateralism. These three requirements must be equal for all of us.”
Armenia
H.E. Mr. Edward Nalbandian, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Disarmament / non-proliferation / security / militarism: "We consider the goals of disarmament and non-proliferation major elements of global and regional security systems. We must shoulder the responsibility and work not only towards non-proliferation and elimination of nuclear weapons but also towards elimination of militaristic aspirations of some states. It is totally unacceptable when the threats to resolve the conflicts through military means are made on the highest level, and those are left unabated by the international community."
Australia
H.E. Mr. Kevin Rudd, Prime Minister
23 September 2009
Nuclear Weapons: “This organisation was born in the shadow of nuclear weapons and that shadow remains today.”
Non-proliferation: “One truth remains absolutely clear: the proliferation of nuclear weapons can never make any country more secure.”
North Korea’s nuclear programme, Nuclear Disarmament: “The nuclear test by North Korea this year was rightly condemned across the international community. It reiterates that the only path to safety is through the eventual elimination of nuclear weapons.”
Nuclear Disarmament: “Australia is encouraged by the commitment of the US and Russia to further reduce their nuclear arsenals.”
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-proliferation: “But the international community must also progress the broader disarmament and non-proliferation agenda.
“The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty has played a crucial role in limiting the spread of nuclear weapons - but the Treaty today is under challenge. We must work to ensure the Treaty’s global security benefits are reinforced by a successful Review Conference in 2010.
“To reinvigorate global consensus and activism ahead of that Conference and beyond, Australia and Japan last year established the International Commission on Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament.
“In the next few months, the Commission will produce its final report.
“Its aim is to chart a practical and realistic course to achieve a strengthened nonproliferation and disarmament regime, leading to the ultimate elimination of nuclear arsenals.
“Tomorrow’s Security Council summit on non-proliferation and disarmament is important for us all. We must not lose the opportunity it offers to summon the political resolve to move towards a nuclear weapons-free world.”
Austria
H.E. Mr. Michael Spindelegger, Federal Minister for European and International Affairs
26 September 2009
Nuclear Weapons, Multilateralism: “This has been a truly remarkable week. The leadership shown by the Secretary General on climate change, the new policies of President Obama, which he so eloquently set out before us, the constructive responses to these initiatives from many parts of the world and the historic meeting of the UN Security Council which committed itself to a world without nuclear weapons. We all have witnessed something new and different: a genuine opportunity for a real renaissance of multilateralism. There is a real chance to turn the United Nations once again into what was originally envisaged in the Charter: not just a forum of discussion but a place for action, the central focal point of the efforts of the international community to find common solutions to common challenges.”
Peace and Security: “Peace, security and stability are preconditions for sustainable development.”
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-proliferation: “The Security Council summit on nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament earlier this week issued a strong call for a world free of nuclear weapons. For this vision to become reality, we need progress on several fronts.”
Nuclear Testing: “1. Austria, as chairman of the CTBT Conference together with Costa Rica in the last two years, is proud to have contributed to bringing the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty closer to entry into force.”
Fissile Materials: “2. As current chair of the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva, Austria works hard to translate the recent positive momentum into substantial progress especially on a verifiable Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty.”
NPT: “3. The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty must be reinforced. The Review Conference next year will have to agree on a package of measures and procedures that address the key issues but most of all it will need to build trust and confidence.”
Landmines: “1. First, I appeal to all States to make the Mine Ban Conference in Colombia in December a success and in particular to ensure improved victims' assistance.”
Cluster Munitions: “2. Second, I welcome the growing support for the Convention on Cluster Munitions. Austria ratified the Convention in April this year. We appeal to all states to sign and ratify as soon as possible.”
Small Arms and Light Weapons: “3. Third, we have to counter the illegal proliferation of small arms and light weapons.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “An Arms Trade Treaty would be an important step in this regard. To contribute to speedy negotiations, Austria will host an international conference in Vienna in February next year.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “With regard to the Iranian nuclear programme it is indispensable that Iran fully complies with all relevant Security Council resolutions and closely cooperates with the IAEA. The most recent announcement by the government of Iran concerning an additional enrichment facility is discouraging and further increases our concern. As an important regional actor Iran has the responsibility to contribute to peace and security in the area. The time has now come for Iran to finally enter into a constructive dialogue with the international community. Iran should therefore grasp the extended hand of its international partners and engage in genuine and serious negotiations. The debates during this week have clearly shown that the world will not accept an Iran armed with nuclear weapons.”
Peace: “International cooperation and dialogue are the basis for sustainable peace and development.”
Azerbaijan
H.E. Mr. Elmar Maharram oglu Mammadyarov, Minister for Foreign Affairs
25 September 2009
Multilateralism: “The multilateral system with the United Nations at its heart undergoes serious changes that test its strength, viability and credibility. This requires more dedicated efforts aimed at strengthening the United Nations and promoting the effectiveness of the Organization through the implementation of its decisions and resolutions.”
Peace and Security: “The security of each State, and more broadly, the international peace and security will depend on whether States follow the norms and principles of international law and use them as a guiding tool for shaping their foreign and security policies. Following common set of norms and rules on the international arena contributes to the transparency and predictability of State behaviour and hence consolidates international peace and security.”
Militarism: “Armed conflicts, military aggression and foreign occupation involving the most serious international crimes are only a few vivid examples from our recent history of the bitter consequences of noncompliance by individual States with the norms and principles of international law.”
Bahamas
H.E. Theodore Brent Symonette, MP, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
25 September 2009
Small Arms and Light Weapons: "An increased level of criminal activity is creating new challenges for the Bahamas, a phenomenon shared with other countries in our region [...] Illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs and small arms and light weapons, are major contributing factors to this phenomenon. The Bahamas is not a producer of illicit drugs. Neither The Bahamas nor the other member States of CARICOM are manufacturers or suppliers of small arms and light weapons. Yet, illicit drugs and light weapons account overwhelmingly to violent crime in our societies."
Bahrain
H.E. Mr. Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmed Bin Mohamed Alkhalifa, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Security, Multilateralism: “It is clear that world security cannot be achieved through the sole effort of superpowers.”
Nuclear Proliferation and Iran's Nuclear Programme: “Among the other challenges facing our region and causing concern to all of us is the question of nuclear proliferation in the Middle East and the Gulf region. The Iranian nuclear programme is undoubtedly among the causes for this common concern. Nevertheless, addressing it should be undertaken in such a manner as to spare our region the threat of confrontation. This could best be achieved by giving precedence to diplomacy.”
Nuclear Weapon Free Zones, IAEA Safeguards, Nuclear Energy: “It is in this spirit that the Kingdom of Bahrain, and in pursuant to the Security Council resolution 1887 (2009), reiterates its appeal to the international community to seriously endeavour to make the Middle East, including the Gulf region, a zone free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction, thus ensuring the security and wellbeing of the nations of the region and the world at large and call upon Israel to adhere to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons with a view to enhancing its universality. All nuclear institutions and activities in Middle Eastern states should be placed under the IAEA safeguards system, without prejudice to the legitimate right of states to possess nuclear technology for peaceful uses in the various areas where it has become vital for development and the diversification of energy sources, in conformity with the relevant international agreements.”
Bangladesh
H.E. The Honourable Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
No relevant references.
Barbados
H.E. The Honourable Maxine Pamela Ometa McClean, Senator Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
28 September 2009
Peace and Security: “Despite our various agendas and differing priorities, we do share an ultimate common goal: to achieve peace, security and development for all the peoples of the world. Until this becomes a reality, no country is truly secure.”
Belarus
H.E. Mr. Sergei Martynov, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: “To lead the international community out of a train of multiple crises, to overcome multidimensional new threats we need a tool of a policy of partnership.
“Modern international relations are evermore being built along the pattern of horizontal networks. These networks involve all interested and constructive stakeholders in today’s world - states, big and small, international organisations, civil society, private sector. Partnerships are a mechanism of engagement which, in the opinion of Belarus, does not have a sensible alternative in conditions of a pluralistic and contradictory world. A special political factor that raises hope that this approach is realistic is an emerging meeting of minds - of various forces all over the world that have come to sense in partnerships a link, grabbing which one can pull out the whole chain.”
Belgium
H.E. Mr. Yves Leterme, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Security, climate change, impacts of globalization constitute some of the challenges the world in facing today. This is why a global response, with a central role for the United Nations, is needed. However, this role needs to be earned by the UN.... It is in this spirit that I would like to call for a new multilateral commitment. The reform of our international institutions is crucial to enhance their legitimacy, representativeness and capacity for action.”
“In addition to the fragmentation of the UN system, two other trends stress the need for an enhanced multilateral commitment.
“The first is the multitude of regional and sub-regional organizations, almost everywhere in the world. Although this enhances multilateral cooperation, it sometimes leads to a lack of harmonization between the regional and global institutions. A better cooperation has to be sought so as to guarantee the best possible use of the limited resources of all.
“The second trend may be summed up by the words ‘incomplete multilateralism’. Countries get together on an informal basis to discuss international issues, such as the economic-financial crisis. These informal groups may initially speed up the decision-making process within the international multilateral organizations but they cannot replace those organizations.
“Rather than being exclusive, multilateralism should be inclusive and transparent.”
Peace and Security: “... without peace, without security there is no development, let alone sustainable development. Without peace, without security, there can be no fair distribution of the wealth of our Earth.”
Multilateralism: “To function efficiently, our multilateral institutions need leaders and representatives of States who share basic approaches established on the unique dignity of each human being.”
Disarmament, Non-Proliferation, WMD: “Wars are caused by men, not by weapons. Nonetheless, the arms control issue has to be high on the international agenda. Belgium welcomes the meeting of the Security Council at the highest level on the subject of non-proliferation and nuclear disarmament. This meeting was undoubtedly one of the highlights of this week. The resolution adopted yesterday represents a milestone for a world free of weapons of mass destruction.”
Iran and North Korea’s nuclear programmes: “Unfortunately, the latest news coming from Iran is not headed in this direction. My country urgently calls on Iran and North Korea to cooperate with the international community on this issue and to implement the Security Council resolutions on this matter. Otherwise, they will place themselves in ban of the international community.”
Landmines: “At the same time, in our efforts for non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction we should not forget the weapons that currently cause death on a massive scale. I am particularly referring to the anti-personnel mines. Belgium is hoping that the 1999 Convention on the prohibition of these weapons will be strengthened during the review conference scheduled to take place in Cartagena, Colombia, at the end of this year.”
Cluster Munitions: “Belgium also spared no efforts to push for the conclusion of the Convention on Cluster Munitions.”
Security: “In the words of the former Secretary-General Kofi Annan : There is no development without security, no security without development and both depend on respect for human rights and the rule of law.”
Multilateralism: “Peace and security, sustainable development, a fair distribution of the wealth of the Earth— these are the challenges we face, challenges which are global in scope. To meet those challenges, we need solid international institutions. But multilateralism of the institutions is not enough. We also need a multilateralism of the minds, And men [sic] with convictions able to carry it.”
Belize
H.E. The Honourable Wilfred Elrington, Attorney General, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
28 September 2009
Multilateralism: “The club model of multilateral cooperation suffers from a crisis of legitimacy [...] Given the far reaching geopolitical consequences that the global economic crisis has touched off, we have an opportunity to redress the shortcomings of the exclusive club model and to restore trust and confidence in our multilateral relations. The time for inclusive multilateralism is now.”
“For us the model of multilateral cooperation must be imbued with legitimacy and for that we must work for a more inclusive process. The twenty first century challenges instruct a new dynamic for international relations, one that must be inclusive and dare I say democratic.”
Benin
H.E. Jean-Marie Ehouzou, Minister for Foreign Affairs
25 September 2009
Peace: “We must find the means to promote peace through development and for development.”
Nonproliferation and Weapons of Mass Destruction: “We need a United Nations capable of rising to the challenges of [...] disarmament and the nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction.”
Bhutan
H.E. Mr. Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
No relevant references.
Bolivia (Plurinational State of)
H.E. Mr. Evo Morales Ayma, President
23 September 2009
Peace, Militarism: “We are seeking peace. In our light of our experience, there cannot be social peace when there is economic injustice and inequality. And all the more so when there are military bases in a number of countries. They may be located in many countries but also in Latin America and South America. How can we hold these discussions when United States’ military bases provoke distrust among peoples? Let me briefly tell you that I was a victim of the military bases operating in my country before I assumed the office of President, before the social movements opposed policies and became protagonists in a new country, on equal footing and with social justice. All of us were victims of the presence of the United States in Bolivia. And as victims, we know, we know what uniformed personnel of the United States can do in one single country in South America. And for that single reason, I would like to say to you, that when there is a military base, a United States military base, in particular in Latin America, I do not know how their conduct is in Europe or on other continents, but in Latin America, when there are military bases, well that cannot guarantee social peace, nor can it guarantee democracy and certainly it cannot guarantee the integration of our countries or of the peoples who are seeking to bring about deep changes in our social and economic and cultural structures. Here we have before us Honduras. There’s a military base, a United States military base in Honduras. That military base cannot guarantee democracy because their presence change these countries, they are constantly threatened by these military bases.”
Botswana
H.E. Mr. C.T. Ntwaagae, Ambassador, Permanent Representative to the UN
29 September 2009
Peace, Security, Nuclear Weapons: “The challenges confronting humanity have since grown tenfold, both in scope and magnitude. The sheer enormity of these fast evolving challenges threatens the very existence of the human race and the security of our planet. These [include] increasing threats to international peace and security with growing desire to possess nuclear weapons capability, including unilateral testing.”
Multilateralism: “Mr. President, in conclusion, I wish to reiterate that, the daunting challenges facing our world today as stated previously cannot and should not be tackled by any one country or group of countries alone. It calls for a strong multilateral approach which needs commitment and an unyielding support from the international community as a whole.”
Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Mr. Željko Komšic, Chairman of the Presidency
24 September 2009
Peace and Security: “Foreign policy of Bosnia and Herzegovina is directed to preservation and improvement of long lasting peace, security and stability of democratic and comprehensive social development and contribution to international peace and stability.”
Brazil
H.E. Mr. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President
23 September 2009
Multilateralism: “We are moving towards a multilateral world. However it is also a multipolar world [...] The multipolar world will not conflict with the United Nations. On the contrary, it could be invigorating for the United Nations.”
“The issues at the core of our concerns [...] have a strong common denominator. It is the need to build a new international order that is sustainable, multilateral and less asymmetric, free of hegemonies and ruled by democratic institutions.”
Disarmament and Non-proliferation: “For a UN that can make real progress towards disarmament, in true balance and with non-proliferation.”
Brunei Darussalam
His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade
26 September 2009
No relevant references.
Bulgaria
H.E. Mrs. Rumiana Jeleva, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: “As an EU member, Bulgaria is dedicated to the spirit of multilateralism and thus fully supports the efforts to strengthen the United Nation’s capacity to deliver effective international responses to global challenges.”
“In the globalised world of the 21st century my country strongly reiterates its continued and full commitment to the principle of effective multilateralism, based on international law, the UN Charter and the system of the United Nations which place the human being, his [sic] security, rights and dignity at the very centre of international politics.”
Security, Multilateralism: “We believe in a ‘bottom-up’ approach to global security where different forms of regional, subregional and transborder cooperation serve as building blocks for a comprehensive collective security system. We are convinced that effective multilateralism should be built on a robust partnership between the UN and regional organisations.”
Disarmament, Non-proliferation, WMD: “We are convinced of the need to step up efforts aimed at achieving progress in the areas of international disarmament, arms control and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. In this regard, the need for a full and universal implementation of the Nonproliferation Treaty regime remains of utmost importance and my country is dedicated to the successful outcome of the 2010 Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference.”
Small arms and light weapons, Conventional Weapons: “Bulgaria supports the implementation of the UN Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons and appreciates the work done so far regarding the Protocols of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “We reiterate our strong commitment for a legally binding international Arms Trade Treaty.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “We are deeply concerned by the recent turn of events regarding the nuclear dossier of Iran, and in this respect we strongly appeal to the Iranian authorities to comply with UN Security Council Resolutions and to pursue its full cooperation with the IAEA. Bulgaria hopes that the forthcoming negotiations between Iran and the P5+1, scheduled for the beginning of October, will make it possible to renew the discussion on the Iranian Nuclear Programme and will pave the way for a comprehensive solution before December this year.”
Peace: “Bulgaria sees the UN as a symbol for peace and cooperation. However, maintaining peace requires that peace is firmly anchored and sustainable.”
“We firmly believe that there cannot be sustainable peace without effective justice.”
Burkina Faso
H.E. Mr. Blaise Compaoré, President
25 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-Proliferation, and Nuclear Energy: “For some years now the question of proliferation of nuclear weapons which constitutes a tremendous threat and divides the international community, I would like to thank and encourage President Obama for organizing and directing so successfully the security council summit on nuclear disarmament and nuclear nonproliferation. The commitments entered into to achieve a de-nuclearized world which is more ambitious in using nuclear power for civil purposes and more vigilant in regard to illicit trafficking nuclear materials.”
Burundi
H.E. Mr. Gabriel Ntisezerana, Second Vice-President
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: "We cannot conclude our statement without reconfirming the commitment of our country to multilateralism, which is the only response to any threat to peace and security in the world."
Cambodia
H.E. Mr. Hor Namhong, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
26 September 2009
Peace and Security: "In my view, the reform of the United Nations should be in the interest of peace, security and development of the international community, and not just for a particular interest of a country."
North Korea's nuclear programme: "On the Korean Peninsula issue, we all are concerned with the rising tension in this part of the world, which can affect peace and security in the region. Cambodia urges all parties concerned to exercise utmost restraint and re-engage peaceful negotiations in the Six- Party Talks aimed at early denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. I think we should call upon the Democratic People Republic of Korea (DPRK) to keep in mind that the Six-Party Talks remain an appropriate forum to contribute to the settlement of the overall problem in the Korean Peninsula."
Nuclear Weapons / Non-proliferation / Disarmament / WMD: "In parallel to all these most serious global challenges the world is facing with, there are still the political and security problems of great concern. ... On the other hand, there are countries that have the capacity to produce nuclear weapons which have not yet signed the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). The dissemination of WMD constitutes another massive deadly menace to humanity. In this context, Cambodia highly values the call by US President Obama on September 23rd "... to stop the spread of nuclear weapons and seek the goal of a world without them." Cambodia also warmly welcomes the appeal by the UNSC Resolution 1887, adopted by UN Security Council Summit on September 24th, to secure a safer world for all."
Nuclear Weapon Free Zones: "In the ASEAN framework in Southeast Asia, we have the Treaty of the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon Free Zone (SEANWFZ) which is an important instrument to keep Southeast Asia free of nuclear weapons to ensure peace and security in this part of the world. It is also a good confidence-building mechanism which needs to be adhered to by all, especially the nuclear weapon states. In recent years, ASEAN has actively encouraged the Nuclear Weapon States (NWS) to accede to SEANWFZ, but no concrete result or effect has been achieved yet. Here also, we would appeal to all Nuclear States to engage more constructively with the SEANWFZ Treaty."
Cameroon
H.E. Paul Biya, President
24 September 2009
Peace and Security: “Regarding world peace and security, we continue to deplore the persistence of numerous conflicts or hotbeds of tension, despite significant progress made towards a return to calm.”
Canada
H.E. The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: “... there is no more appropriate forum than this one for me, as Foreign Minister of Canada, to reaffirm my country’s commitment to collective action, to working in concert with all nations to pursue shared objectives and confront common challenges.”
Non-proliferation: “We are all acutely conscious that a global challenge that touches us all is the threat of nuclear proliferation.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Canada was deeply troubled by the recent revelation that Iran has been building a covert uranium enrichment facility for several years. We condemn Iran’s continued refusal to respect UN Security council resolutions and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) requirements. We call on Iran to allow the IAEA immediate and unfettered access to all sites, including this facility, and we expect a full investigation.
“We hope that talks between the five permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany and Iran on October 1st will address the continued dishonesty surrounding Iran’s nuclear program. Our Prime Minister has been clear with President Obama, with Prime Minister Brown, with President Sarkozy, and with our other allies - Canada will be supportive of actions necessary to deal with what is clearly a threat to international peace and security.”
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-proliferation, Nuclear Terrorism: “Canada therefore praised President Obama for convening the UN Security Council Summit on Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Nuclear Disarmament. We commit to work with other states to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and new terror threats. For a diplomatic solution to work, there must be the political will to ensure that states comply with the vision of a world free of nuclear weapons.”
Cape Verde
H.E. Mr. Antonio Pedro Monteiro Lima, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2009
Peace and Security: “Mr. President, peace, security, and development, as we all know, are public assets that are essential to the progress of humanity. However, they have never been as threatened as they are today.”
Multilateralism: “Mr. President, in this context in which states and democratic processes are threatened by exogenous elements, multilateralism seems to be an indispensable backing and an essential resource. We allow no doubt that this confluence of wills and means among countries most diverse in the most spread out regions in the bosom of the international community constitutes the right path that is not only imbued in the principles and values of the U.N., as well as to enforce international law which is indispensable for the consolidation of peace and security in the world.”
Central African Republic
H.E. Mr. Faustin Archange Touadera, Prime Minister
25 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Changes that have occurred in the situation of the world as a whole has engendered new challenges that can only be addressed through international cooperation. Thus, multilateralism emerges as the only means to solve the problems of the world.”
Disarmament, Non-proliferation, Military Spending, Militarism: “In view of the proliferation of arms of all kinds, the issue of armament stands in stark relief. The United Nations Disarmament Commission must promote resolutions that encourage multilateralism in the area of disarmament and nonproliferation. The reduction of military budgets and respect for environmental standards in the elaboration and implementations of disarmament agreements. An effort is also needed to overcome the current impasse and to achieve nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation in all their forms. The stretchy concept of nuclear states that justifies the use of, or the threat of the use of, nuclear weapons is as much of a danger as uranium enrichment for weapons purposes and should be abandoned; pure and simple. However, national security’s concepts built around the promotion and development of military alliances and nuclear deterrence policies would appear better adopted to the ideals that we pursue.”
Disarmament: “The Central African Republic welcomes the initiative of President Obama in convening a meeting of the Security Council devoted to nonproliferation and nuclear disarmament.”
Conventional Weapons, Peace, Security: “The issue of regional control over conventional weapons is all the more apposite for the fact that it is the most effective way of stemming the proliferation of illegally armed groups and tackling cross boarding crime. Central Africa’s peace and security are hampered by this recurrent problem.”
Chad
H.E. Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
No relevant references.
Chile
H.E. Mrs. Michelle Bachelet Jeria, President
23 September 2009
Multilateralism: “And we must return multilateral dialogue to the centre of international policy, abandoning unilateralism.”
Militarism and peace: “Military or economic might cannot be the norm in international relations, Institutions and the rule of law must prevail, since this is the only way to ensure peace and development.”
China
H.E. Mr. Hu Jintao, President
23 September 2009
Multilateralism: “As the world moves further toward multi-polarity and economic globalization, multilateralism and democracy in international relations have won greater popular support, while opening up and cooperation for mutual benefit and win-win progress have become the shared aspirations of the international community.”
Weapons of mass destruction: “Non-traditional security threats, including terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, transnational organized crime and major communicable diseases, are menacing our world.”
Security: “First, we should view security in a broader perspective and safeguard world peace and stability. The security of all countries has never been as closely interconnected as it is today, and security now covers more areas than ever before. Traditional and non-traditional security threats are intertwined, involving political, military, economic, cultural and other fields. They are our common challenges that require a joint and comprehensive response. Security is not a zero-sum game, and there is no isolated or absolute security. No country can be safe and stable in the absence of world and regional peace and stability.
“We should embrace a new security thinking of mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality and coordination. While maintaining one's own national security, we should also respect the security concerns of other countries and advance the common security of mankind. We should adhere to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and seek peaceful solutions to regional hotspot issues and international disputes. There should be no willful use or threat of force. We should support the United Nations in continuing to play an important role in the field of international security. We should follow the spirit of equality, mutual benefit and cooperation to preserve global economic and financial stability. And we should oppose terrorism, separatism and extremism in all manifestations and deepen international security cooperation.”
Nuclear Disarmament and Nuclear Energy: “China has consistently stood for the complete prohibition and thorough destruction of nuclear weapons and a world without nuclear weapons. We call on the international community to take credible steps to push forward the nuclear disarmament process, eradicate the risks of nuclear weapons proliferation and promote peaceful use of nuclear energy and related international cooperation.”
Colombia
H.E. Mr. Álvaro Uribe Vélez, President
23 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Terrorism cannot be ignored in the name of good international relations. On the contrary, multilateralism and diplomacy must lead to collaborative actions among States to overcome this drama and its accomplices.”
“We reiterate our commitment to multilateralism, in all its legitimate expressions, from the organizations of neighboring countries to the most global, but believe that multilateralism has to demonstrate effectiveness in defeating international crime.”
Militarism, Arms Race: “Our objective is recovering domestic security, never participating in the arms race for the bloody game of international war. Our tradition is one of respect for the global community. We are concerned that instead of advancing towards greater cooperation for the security, peace and tranquility of the citizens of each country, an arms race is accelerated under the argument by some on the need to modernize military equipment while others confess their disposition for war.”
Comoros
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Abdallah Mohamed Sambi, President
24 September 2009
No relevant references.
Congo
H.E. Mr. Denis Sassou-Nguesso, President
25 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament and Non-proliferation: “We welcome the unanimous adoption on 24 September 2009, by the historic summit of the Security Coucil the unanimous adoption of Security Council Resolution 1887 which reflects the determination of the international community to work toward disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation for a safer world.”
Nuclear Energy: “In light of these many challenges, we call for strict compliance with the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty and all of its chapters, including the right of all countries to develop nuclear technology for civilian purposes.”
Costa Rica
H.E. Mr. Óscar Arias Sánchez, President
24 September 2009
Military Spending, Militarism, Arms Trade Treaty: “Since the last time I spoke before you ... The Armies of our region received nearly 60 billion dollars to combat imaginary enemies, while our peoples struggled against the economic crisis with empty hands.”
“This scenario is not a hopeful one.... We have not driven out of our reality the shadow of militarism and oppression.”
“Our success our failure will depend on whether we have the strength to take on, at least, three fundamental challenges: ...[including] the impulse for human development of our peoples, through the reduction of military spending and of arms trafficking across borders.”
“This challenge [of development] becomes even more urgent because of the threat of an arms race that, each year, moves 1.3 trillion dollars internationally. The combination of strong armies with weak democracies has proved to be harmful in every corner of the planet, and above all in Latin America, which during the second half of the 20th century was a showcase of dictatorial horrors, fed by the existence of an omnipresent military apparatus. I will never tire of repeating it: in Latin America, and in a substantial portion of the developing world, armies have not served any purpose than to carry out a coup d’etat. They have not protected their peoples; they have oppressed them. They have not safeguarded liberties; they have overrun them. They have not guaranteed respect for popular will; they have mocked it.
“What is the threat for our nations? What is the great enemy of Latin America, that leads it to spend 165 million dollars a day on weapons and soldiers? I assure you that these threats are far less significant than the threat posed by, for example, the mosquito that carries malaria. They are less than the threat posed by drug cartels and street gangs, that sustain themselves thanks to an unrestricted market of small arms and light weapons.
“This is a matter of putting our priorities in order. Costa Rica was the first country to abolish its army and declare peace on the world. Thanks to that visionary decision, thanks to the liberating army of Commander Jose Figueres, who renounced arms forever, we have the opportunity today to invest our resources in the things that matter. And while we know that not all nations are ready to take such a radical step, we do believe that the gradual and progressive reduction of military spending is not only a good strategy for allocating resources, but also a moral imperative for developing nations.
“For that reason I ask you, once more, to make the Costa Rica Consensus a reality. This initiative would create mechanisms to forgive external debt, and support with international financial resources, developing countries—poor, or middle-income—that invest more in environmental protections, education, health, housing, and sustainable development for their peoples, and less in arms and soldiers.”
“And I ask you as well to approve the Arms Trade Treaty, which is known to this organization, and which seeks to prohibit the transfer of arms to States, groups or individuals, when sufficient reason exists to believe that those weapons will be used to weaken human rights or International Law. I assure you that these two initiatives will make us safer, and certainly more developed, than the costly machinery of death that currently consumes our budgets.
“What’s more, spending on arms deprives us not only of economic resources. It deprives us, more than anything else, of human resources. The greatest arsenal of genius in the world is, at this moment, working on perfecting the weaponry and defense systems of nations. That is not its place. Its place is in the laboratories where medicines are being created that are accessible for all humankind. Its place is in the classrooms where the leaders of tomorrow are being formed. Its place is in the Governments that need guidance to protect their harvests, their cities and their populations, from the effects of global warming.
“We have included sustainable development in the Costa Rica Consensus, because we believe there is a relation between arms and the protection of the environment; first of all, because arms and wars generate more environmental devastation and more pollution than any productive activity; and secondly, because the mere existence of military spending constitutes, in and of itself, the negation of resources to combat global warming. Every armored helicopter, every war tank, every nuclear submarine, represents, in practice, forests that are not protected, technologies that are not becoming less expensive, and adaptations that are not taking place.”
Cote d’Ivoire
H.E. Mr. Laurent Gbagbo, President
25 September 2009
No relevant references.
Croatia
H.E. Mr. Stjepan Mesic, President
24 September 2009
Multilateralism: “It is up to us to dispel prejudices – more resolutely than ever before – to stand up to discrimination on whatever grounds, to say no to intolerance and to promote not only the idea but also the practice of multilateralism and dialogue among civilisations.”
Nuclear Disarmament, Disarmament and Development: “Finally, a world of that will be characterized by international peace, security and development is not only possible without disarmament and in particular without renouncing nuclear weapons [...] I would like to add the notorious fact that the problems of development would become minor if the huge funds currently allocated for armament were channelled into development.”
Cuba
H.E. Mr. Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
No relevant references.
Cyprus
H.E. Mr. Demetris Christofias, President
24 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Since its independence the Republic of Cyprus has been committed to multilateral diplomacy and strengthening of the role of the United Nations.”
Proliferation, WMD: “The world today faces multiple challenges and threats: climate change, depletion of resources, human rights abuses, failure to protect vulnerable populations, increased regional and interstate conflict, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, pandemics.”
Czech Republic
H.E. Mr. Václav Klaus, President
23 September 2009
No relevant references.
Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
H.E. Pak Ui Chun, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Nuclear Weapons, War, Peace: “The Korean peninsula remains as ever in a state of armistice. But now that we possess a dependable nuclear deterrent, we can possibly prevent war and defend peace.
“For over half a century our country was compelled to produce bullets first rather than sweets while suffering from nuclear threats and danger of war posed by hostile forces, but today we have settled down to channel our main efforts into the building of a great, prosperous and powerful nation.”
North Korea’s nuclear programme: “We have never denied the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula and the rest of the world.
“The denuclearization is the behest of President KIM IL SUNG and nuclear-free world is a long cherished-desire of humankind.”
“The DPRK has done everything it could to realize the peaceful reunification of the country, remove nuclear threats and source of war and secure peace and stability on the Korean peninsula.
“We initiated the denuclearization of Northeast Asia and the Korean peninsula and advanced the proposal on replacing the Armistice Agreement with a peace agreement and the proposal of adopting the DPRK-US non-aggression treaty.
“However, our effort has not received due response from the United States (US). The US considers the Korean issue only in the light of its Asian strategy and dose not want to see the entire Korean peninsula denuclearized. Thus, it resulted in increased nuclear threats against the DPRK.
“The arbitrariness of the US finds its expression in arguing that the DPRK must not launch even a peaceful satellite. The UNSC is being abused by this arbitrariness.
“We came to the conclusion that so long as the US dose not change its nuclear policy as at present time, we have no other option but to rely on our dependable nuclear possession to ensure nuclear balance of the region, if we are to preserve peace and stability in Northeast Asia.
“The denuclearization of the Korean peninsula depends on whether or not the US changes its nuclear policy towards Korea. In order to realize the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula, the US administration must discard old concept of confrontation and show the ‘change’ in practice, as it recently stated on several occasions.
“Mr. President, We do not pursue nuclear arms race.
“The mission of our nuclear weapon is to deter a war. We will only possess nuclear deterrent to such an extent as to deter military attack and its threat against our country.
“The deterrence will be directly proportional to the threat on the Korean Peninsula, as in Europe and elsewhere.
“The DPRK, while in possession of nuclear weapons, will act in a responsible manner in management, use and non-proliferation of nuclear weapons as well as in nuclear disarmament.
“We share the position of all peace-loving countries including the nonaligned countries in opposing nuclear war, nuclear arms race and proliferation of nuclear weapons.
“‘Sanctions’ are now imposed on us in the name of United Nations (UN) on the grounds that we possessed nuclear deterrent.
“It may be recalled that the UN was born in the country which produced the first nuclear weapon and all five permanent member states of the UNSC are nuclear powers.
“Had these countries shown sincerity in nuclear disarmament long time ago and refrained from arbitrary act of selectively taking an issue with the peaceful satellite launch of other country, the nuclear-related situation of the world may have evolved differently.
“The DPRK attaches importance to sovereignty and equality enshrined in the UN Charter.
“The principle of sovereignty and equality is also the reason that we joined UN as a member. Unfair and unequal sanctions will never be recognized nor accepted.
“It is the stand of the DPRK government to react to the dialogue with a dialogue and respond to the ‘sanctions’ by strengthening nuclear deterrence. If the US comes to dialogue with ‘sanctions’, we will also participate in the dialogue with bolstered nuclear deterrence.”
Democratic Republic of the Congo
H.E. Alexis Thambwe Nwamba, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
No relevant references.
Denmark
H.E. Mr. Carsten Staur, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2009
Multilateralism: “At this moment in time major economic and environmental challenges give rise to increasing global concerns and impact people all over this planet. To effectively meet these challenges, we need more than ever a dynamic and proactive multilateral system. We need the United Nations to provide global answers to global challenges.”
“Multilateral cooperation is the best means of maintaining international peace and security and responding to the challenges, risks and opportunities in an interdependent and globalised world. This organisation holds great legitimacy and moral force, and we encourage the United Nations — member states as well as the entire organizational system — to seize the moment and take the lead in addressing the new global challenges.”
Non-proliferation, WMD, delivery systems, nuclear disarmament, nuclear testing: “Amongst the most serious present danger to peace and security is the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery. The upcoming NPT Review Conference is of utmost importance. Last week’s meeting in the Security Council headed by President Obama is ample evidence. We welcome the negotiations between the US and Russia on post-START reductions and President Obama's commitment to CTBT ratification, both of which will have a positive impact on the NPT Review Conference.”
Iran and North Korea’s nuclear programmes: “Let me take the opportunity to call on Iran and DPRK to comply with their obligations to suspend enrichment activities and start negotiations on a transparent civilian nuclear program, as set forth in Security Council resolutions.”
Djibouti
H.E. Mr. Roble Olhaye, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2009
No relevant references.
Dominica
H.E. Mr. Nicholas Joseph Orville Liverpool, President
25 September 2009
Multilateralism: “We gather every year in the General Debate in a true spirit of common resolve and partnership. This common resolve and partnership must assume greater meaning this year because the tasks before the international community are enormous and necessitate collective action.
“However challenging the efforts are towards their solution, it seems evident that only genuine global cooperation and concerted multilateral action have the possibility of yielding favourable results. But committed multilateral action in face of these crises has so far proved to be elusive. A greater demonstration of political will should ensure multilateral action in confronting these crises as this is an absolute necessity for the survival of this planet.”
Dominican Republic
H.E. Mr. Leonel Fernández Reyna, President
23 September 2009
No relevant references.
Ecuador
H.E. Mr. Fander Falconi, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Integration
28 September 2009
Multilateralism: "The overarching theme of this General Debate on strengthening multilateralism is the "raison d''etre" of the United Nations. This organization is meant to be the expression of horizontal, democratic and respectful relations between the countries of the world, under the strongest observance of the principle of equal sovereignty among the States. However, the current structure and functioning of this Organization has not been able to respond to the big challenges of the XXI century."
Militarism, Peace: "Ecuador, as a founder member of the United Nations, privileges the dialogue and the international cooperation in the solution of conflicts and considers that military actions cannot bring any kind of long lasting and sustainable peace in any zone in conflict of the world."
Egypt
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: “The list of global challenges we are facing, such as climate change, the food crisis, and the crisis the international peace is supplemented by, additional emerging global challenges that make it essential for us to increase our work in a coordinated and collective spirit.”
Disarmament, Non-Proliferation, Nuclear Weapon Free Zones: “In addressing security issues, I will begin with disarmament. Egypt attaches great importance to successful conclusion of the 2010 Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), in the hope of putting nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation regime back on the right track. This will depend on dealing effectively with the decisions and the resolution of the 1995 and 2000 Review Conferences, especially the resolution on the Middle East. It is crucial that the international community as a whole supports the active dynamism currently witnessed on the international arena with regard to disarmament issues, especially in light of the development in the positions of main Nuclear Weapon States, foremost of which comes the United States. We hope that these evolving positions would serve as an opportune portal through which historic progress could be achieved in this regard.”
Israel’s nuclear programme, IAEA: “In the same context, it is necessary to effectively deal with the issues of regional stability and security, mainly through eliminating the inexplicable and unjustified latitude in dealing with the issue of Israeli nuclear capabilities and the persistent threat it poses to security and stability in the Middle East, particularly as, endeavors are intensified to expand the commitments of the non-nuclear States Party to NPT, without due regard to the need to achieve its universality and to subject all nuclear facilities in the Middle East to the IAEA Comprehensive Safeguards. Egypt will continue its diligent work to address this situation, highlighting its risks, with the aim of changing it in all relevant international fora.”
El Salvador
H.E. Mr. Carlos Mauricio Funes Cartagena, President
23 September 2009
No relevant references.
Equatorial Guinea
H.E. Mr. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, President
23 September 2009
No relevant references.
Eritrea
H.E. Mr. Osman Mohammed Saleh, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
No relevant references.
Estonia
H.E. Mr. Toomas Hendrik Ilves, President
25 September 2009
Security: “To uphold the core of the Charter, we must remain committed to providing the United Nations with sufficient resources to fulfill its unique role in contributing to international security.”
Ethiopia
H.E. Mr. Seyoum Mesfin, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
No relevant references.
Fiji
H.E. Commodore Josaia Bainimarama, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
Multilateralism, Peace, and Security: “The 64th Session of the General Assembly will be addressing important contemporary issues of interest to all member nations. These issues include seeking out effective responses to global crises, strengthening multilateralism and dialogue on international peace, security and development.”
Finland
H.E. Ms. Tarja Halonen, President
24 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament: “This morning, the Security Council had a debate on nuclear security issues. I am pleased that disarmament is strongly returning to the international agenda. I sincerely hope that this will lead to real progress.”
France
H.E. Mr. Nicolas Sarkozy, President
23 September 2009
Non-Proliferation: “We have waited too long to curb nuclear proliferation.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “And I would like to say to the Iranian leaders that they would be making a tragic mistake in relying on the passive response of the international community in order to pursue their military nuclear program.”
Gabon
H.E. Mr. Paul Toungui, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, la Francophonie and Regional Integration
25 September 2009
Multilateralism, Peace, and Security: “The interdependence of the crises that we have now highlights now more than ever the need to breathe new life into the efforts for international peace and security but also to conduct collective action on the global level.”
The Gambia
H.E. Mr. Al Hadji Yahya Jammeh, President
24 September 2009
Multilateralism: “The theme ‘Effective responses to global crises: strengthening multilaterialism and dialogue among civilizations for international peace, security and development’ adopted for this year’s Session, is indeed apt and relevant and demands that all nations big or small must adopt multilateralism and dialogue in fostering international partnership, and on all matters of common concern to global peace and development.
“The complexities of today’s world are such that no nation can successfully confront alone. Some issues cannot even be resolved by regional groupings acting independently. Much can be achieved only when we all collaborate and work together within the framework of multilateralism, based on mutual understanding and respect but above all sincerity, strong commitment, universal justice under the same rule of law and equity.”
Peace and Security: “There cannot be peace and security in the absence of justice for all. There cannot be justice in the face of abject poverty characterized by hunger and starvation, disease, and lack of basic social services as a result of exploitation. There cannot be justice if there is merciless exploitation, suppression and criminal invasions of sovereign states. There cannot be peace if there is no development as a result of marginalization, injustice and racism.”
“On international peace and security, my delegation again calls for more honest and stronger international cooperation and dialogue in addressing conflict prevention, peaceful resolution and respect of others cultural values, norms and ways of life.”
“As long as this status quo does not change, peace and security would continue to be an elusive dream as people; rich or poor, Muslim or non Muslim, black or Asian are bound to defend their human dignity at any price. My delegation therefore calls for a united front against this dictatorship of a few over the rest of humanity. And in the interest of our collective security, the United Nations should see to the total elimination of racism and hate in all its forms whatever it takes, so that we can bequeath to generations of humanity yet unborn, a very peaceful and prosperous world devoid of destitution, exploitation and marginalization.”
Georgia
H.E. Mikheil Saakashsvili, President
24 September 2009
No relevant references.
Germany
H.E. Mr. Thomas Matussek, Chairman of the Delegation
28 September 2009
Disarmament, non-proliferation: “Disarmament and arms control can help create better conditions for global cooperation and increase security and stability. We warmly welcome the new dynamic in the area of nuclear disarmament. We welcome the fact that the Security Council also dealt with the topic of non-proliferation and disarmament at the highest level on 24 September. The call for a nuclear weapons free world enjoys our and widespread support. We must seize this opportunity for progress in all areas of disarmament. Germany has underlined that substrategic nuclear weapons must also be incorporated in the continuing process of disarmament. Our clear commitment to ridding the world of all nuclear weapons is the best way to strengthen the international non-proliferation regime.”
Nuclear Testing, Fissile Materials, Non-proliferation: “We need a new international consensus at the 2010 NPT Review Conference, the start of FMCT negotiations in Geneva and the entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty.”
Non-proliferation, Nuclear Energy, Nuclear Fuel Cycle: “In order to avoid a conflict of objectives between non-proliferation and peaceful uses, Germany supports multilateral solutions to nuclear fuel supply and has put forward its own proposal for this issue.”
WMD, Chemical Weapons: “The international community must not relent in its commitment to ban all weapons of mass destruction. A model in this respect is the chemical weapons convention which outlaws a whole category of weapons of mass destruction. Its implementing organisation needs strong and dynamic leadership. Germany has always felt a particular commitment to the chemical weapons convention and stands ready to accept greater responsibility in this organisation.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “We view the ongoing nuclear programme in Iran with great concern. The belated admittance by Iran concerning the construction of a second enrichment plant underlines that our concerns are more than justified. Even before this latest event, the report by IAEA Director-General El Baradei underlined the urgency of the matter. Unfortunately, the Iranian government still refuses to cooperate fully with the IAEA and to remove serious doubts concerning the peaceful character of its nuclear programme. We urge Iran to grant access to a verification team of the IAEA to the newly disclosed site without delay. We sincerely hope that Iran will use the opportunity of the upcoming talks between Iran and the E3 plus 3 to demonstrate its willingness for honest and speedy negotiations. If Iran’s leaders continue to stall, the international community will have no other choice but to take additional measures to underline the seriousness of our common concern.”
Multilateralism: “We are facing a multitude of global challenges. Today, no country is strong enough to tackle these challenges on its own. We need a universal forum for joint global action. That is why we need a strong United Nations that is capable of taking effective action.”
Ghana
H.E. Mr. John Evans Atta Mills, President
24 September 2009
Security and Peace: “The intricate link between security and development has been generally recognized by the international community. Despite the pivotal role played by the UN in identifying the threats confronting the world and marshalling international support for requisite measures to address these challenges, humanity's hope and aspiration for a peaceful and prosperous world, continue to be weaned by a litany of failures and unfulfilled promises.”
“Sustainable development can only be achieved in an international environment characterized by peace and security.”
Multilateralism: “Ghana, therefore, wishes to reiterate her commitment to the ideals of the United Nations and will continue to live up to its charter obligations and together with member states assist this organization in its task of maintaining global peace and security. Ghana believes that the United Nations remains the ideal multilateral instrument available for maintaining international peace and security and for promoting fruitful international cooperation. We must, therefore, strengthen our resolve and muster the necessary political will to allow the UN to function more effectively in redeeming the majority of' our people from wars, disease and poverty.”
Grenada
Hon. Peter David Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration
29 September 2009
Nuclear Weapons, Small Arms: “In our region, small arms proliferation is as lethal as nuclear weapons. So while we welcome the unanimously adopted Security Council Resolution No. 1887 on nuclear disarmament, shepherded by President Obama, we in the Caribbean call for an agreement on small arms trade.”
Nuclear Waste: “The states of the Caribbean Community and other members of the Association of Caribbean States, depend on the tremendous benefits from the pristine waters of the Caribbean Sea. Yet these ocean-based resources are threatened by the transshipment of nuclear and other hazardous waste materials through our waters.”
Peace, Security: “Grenada is proud to continue playing its role at the United Nations. We support the pursuit of international peace and security, the rule of law, the fight against terrorism, and for the eradication of poverty and the promotion of human rights.”
Multilateralism: “Grenada continues to value the role of the United Nations as the preeminent institution for effecting multilateral diplomacy. We support its ability to ensure international peace and stability, and to accord a voice to all sovereign states as enshrined in its charter.”
Greece
H.E. Mr. Anastassis Mitsialis, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2009
Multilateralism: "Ancient Greek Amphictyony is the precursor and the matrix of the concept of multilateralism, which is the only way to deal effectively with the many and varied challenges faced by the international community. The United Nations is in fact, along with the various regional alliances and organisations, the essential framework for joining forces and collectively confronting our common threats and promoting our common values."
Disarmament / Non-proliferation / CTBT / Fissile Materials / IAEA: "A few days ago the Security Council adopted Resolution 1887, thus taking an important step in the direction of advancing nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. We applaud this important decision. Yet, practical tools are essential for the achievement of high political goals such as this. Greece firmly believes that the NPT remains the cornerstone of the nuclear nonproliferation regime. Broad participation in it - along with the conclusion of comprehensive Safeguards Agreements and the Implementation of the Additional Protocol - is beyond any doubt the most effective answer to threats of nuclear proliferation. It is equally important to have additional ratifications of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) and the early drafting of the Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty."
Guatemala
H.E. Mr. Álvaro Colom Caballeros, President
24 September 2009
No relevant references.
Guinea
H.E. Alexandre Cécé Loua, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Guineans living abroad
28 September 2009
Peace and Security: “By acting towards peace and security, significant advances have been made to the prevention and regulation of conflicts.”
Small Arms and Weapons: “Poor political and economic governance and its corollaries, corruption and impunity, drug trafficking and consumption, the proliferation of small arms and light weapons [...] has considerably weakened the authority of the state.”
“In Africa, the illicit and uncontrolled circulation of small arms and light weapons remains a source of instability for States and insecurity for its people.”
Weapons of Mass Destruction, Disarmament, Fissile Materials: “My country supports international efforts on the issue of disarmament and the control of armaments. It is in support of the prevention and destruction of all nuclear, biological and chemical weapons, including eradicating the trafficking of fissile materials.”
Guinea-Bissau
H.E. Mr. Carlos Gomes Junior, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
No relevant references.
Guyana
H.E. Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, President
24 September 2009
Multilateralism: "The bipolarity of the Cold War has yielded to increased multilateralism, in which there has been a diffusion of political and economic power. In many ways, some forms of global governance are no longer commensurate to the needs of the international community and must therefore be suitably altered.
"The United Nations is now engaged in an endeavour to remedy deficiencies of the present system by strengthening the foundation of multilateralism upon which the Organization's Charter is based."
"Above all, however, Mr. President, a profound attitudinal change will be required of all member states to strengthen multilateralism as the preferred mechanism for managing future international relations. Selfish interests and old divisions must be replaced by a new ethic of collaboration and a new sense of morality."
Haiti
H.E. Mr. René Préval, President
24 September 2009
No relevant references.
Holy See
H.E. Archbishop Celestino Migliore, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2009
Multilateralism: “It is only fitting that this year delegations have been asked to focus on effective responses to global crises: strengthening multilateralism and dialogue among civilizations for international peace, security and development.”
“Admittedly, the duty to build the United Nations as a true center for harmonizing the actions of nations in the attainment of these common ends is an extremely difficult task. The more the interdependence of peoples increases, the more the necessity of the United Nations becomes evident. The need to have an organization capable of responding to the obstacles and increasing complexity of the relations between peoples and nations thus becomes paramount.
“The United Nations will advance toward the formation of a true family of nations to the extent that it assumes the truth of the inevitable interdependence among peoples, and to the extent that it takes up the truth about the human person, in accordance with its Charter.”
“Ultimately, true multilateralism and dialogue among cultures must be based on assuming the duty of commitment for the development of all human beings. We must not forget that the sharing of reciprocal duties is a more powerful incentive to action than the mere assertion of rights.”
Security, nuclear weapons: “The mechanisms of the United Nations for addressing common security and the prevention of conflicts were developed in response to the threat of total war and nuclear destruction in the second half of the last century and for this reason alone they deserve perennial historical remembrance.”
Honduras
H.E. Ms. Patricia Isabel Rodas Baca, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
No relevant references.
Hungary
H.E. Mr. Péter Balázs, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Multilateralism: "The ongoing changes in international politics and world economy have created a new situation for the United Nations. We welcome and strongly support the efforts aimed at strengthening its ability to adapt to the new realities and make it a more effective forum of multilateral diplomacy. We acknowledge the overall movement in the right direction and several positive developments, but we cannot be satisfied with the pace of the transformation."
Iran's nuclear programme: "The nuclear programme of Iran continues to be a matter of most serious concern. We deeply regret that the leadership of Iran has refused to abide by the relevant UN Security Council resolutions. In flagrant violation of its international obligations has even increased the uranium enrichment capacities in the country. Recent revelations about the existence of a second enrichment facility underscore the legitimacy of our previous concerns. We urge Iran to engage, in substantive negotiations on its nuclear programme, without further delay. News about recent missile tests only reinforces our sense of urgency."
Nuclear Weapons / Disarmament / Non-proliferation: "The idea of a world without nuclear weapons has been cherished for long. We welcome the affirmation of the commitment to this goal at the recent summit level meeting of the Security Council along with the adoption of a comprehensive set of measures to strengthen the global non-proliferation regime. Hungary hopes that the momentum created by the summit will also have a positive impact on the 2010 NPT Review Conference."
Iceland
H.E. Mr. Össur Skarphéðinsson, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-proliferation: “The other cause of my gratitude is the unanimous decision of the Security Council to call for global efforts to stop the spread for nuclear arms and to boost disarmament. I remember when I was a very young editor in 1986 when President Reagan and Secretary Gorbachev met in Reykjavik. I’ll never forget that for the first time in my life a world free of a nuclear nightmare became a realistic goal. This is a goal that must be vigorously pursued, it is strongly supported by my government, and I am grateful to the UN for providing the framework for that.”
India
H.E. Mr. S. M. Krishna, Minister for External Affairs
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Connectivity defines our global condition, and the challenges that we face are global. The resolution of these challenges, as we are aware, require global approaches and solutions. What may happen in one part of the world has an impact on other regions.”
“At the centre-stage of multilateralism and international cooperation is the United Nations.”
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-proliferation: “India attaches the highest priority to the goal of nuclear disarmament and has an impeccable non-proliferation record. We welcome the renewed global debate on achieving a world free of nuclear weapons. This corresponds with India’s longstanding and consistent advocacy of nuclear disarmament as one of the highest priority of the international community. We have put forward a number of proposals on nuclear disarmament in the UN, including a Working Paper in 2006, proposing elements to fashion a new consensus on disarmament and non-proliferation.”
Nuclear Disarmament: “Last year, at the 63rd UNGA, consistent with India's longstanding commitment articulated in the Rajiv Gandhi Action Plan in 1988, India reiterated its proposal for a Nuclear Weapons Convention for banning the production, development, stockpiling and use of nuclear weapons and to provide for their complete elimination within a specified time-frame. The international nuclear order cannot be discriminatory. Further, states must fulfill the obligations they have undertaken. Once more, with feeling and with commitment, India reiterates that proposal.
“We will continue to engage with key countries to intensify this debate with the hope that greater international understanding could lend itself to a firm commitment for action on nuclear disarmament.”
Fissile Materials: “It was in this spirit that we supported adoption of a Programme of Work, including on a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty, in the Conference on Disarmament in May this year. This is consistent with India's position, to work with others in the Conference on Disarmament towards conclusion of a non-discriminatory, multilaterally negotiated and internationally verifiable FMCT, provided it meets India’s national security interests.”
Nuclear Testing: “We remain committed to a voluntary, unilateral moratorium on nuclear testing.”
Indonesia
H.E. Mr. Hassan Wirajuda, Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2009
Multilateralism: “The economic and financial crisis, the challenge of climate change, the food security crisis, and the energy security crisis are problems that fed on one another so that they all grew to critical proportions. That is the reality that came about because the international community has failed to form an effective global partnership to address the large bundle of challenges that ultimately affect all humankind.
“In that sense, the root cause of this overarching crisis is a failure of multilateralism, a failure to forge a system of democratic governance at the global level. But we can rectify that failure through all-encompassing reform—reform of the relationships between and among nations in the world today.”
Multilateralism, nuclear disarmament: “If this new spirit of multilateralism and reform can pervade international socioeconomic affairs, there is no reason why it should not also find its way into the politico-security field. It can resuscitate the disarmament agenda, especially nuclear disarmament, which has been lying moribund for decades.”
Nuclear disarmament, nuclear testing, non-proliferation: “In a truly democratic world order, the nuclear powers will live by their commitment to the Non-proliferation Treaty by slashing their nuclear arsenals and abiding by the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. In turn, we non-nuclear countries continue to refrain from developing nuclear weapons.”
Nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation: “This is no longer an impossible dream: a window of opportunity has been opened with adoption of UN Security Council resolution no 1887 (2009) on Maintenance of International Peace and Security leading to a nuclear free world, and with the current process between the United States and the Russian Federation toward deeper cuts in their respective nuclear arsenals. Thus the disarmament agenda is being revived.”
Iran (Islamic Republic of)
H.E. Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, President
23 September 2009
Military Spending, Non-Proliferation: “It is not acceptable that the military budget of some governments exceeds far larger than those of the entire countries of the world. They export billions of dollars of arms every year, stockpile chemical and biological weapons, establish military bases or have military presence in other countries while accusing others of militarism, and mobilize all their resources in the world to impede scientific and technological progress of other nations under the pretext of countering arms proliferation.”
Multilateralism: “Settlement of global problems and administration of justice and maintenance of peace will only be materialized with collective determination and cooperation of all nations and states. The age of polarizing the world on the premises of the hegemony or domination of a few governments is over.
“Today we must rise together in a collective commitment against the present challenges; we must take change seriously and help others through collective work to return to the basic moral and human values.”
Arms Race, WMD: “Reforming the international political relations based on the promotion of lasting peace and friendship, eradication of arms race and elimination of all nuclear, chemical and biological weapons.”
Peace and Security: “We announce our commitment to participate in the process of building a durable peace and security worldwide for all nations based on justice, spirituality and human dignity, while being dedicated strongly to defending our legitimate and legal rights.”
Iraq
H.E. Mr. Jalal Talabani, President
24 September 2009
WMD Free Zone, Non-proliferation: “We consider the Arab initiative to be a step in the right direction towards resolving the Arab-Israeli conflict in order to achieve security, peace and stability in the Middle East and we call for making the Middle East a zone free of nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction to promote peace and security opportunity. In this context, we call upon all states who have not yet done so to accede to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty to do so and be bound by its provisions.”
Ireland
H.E.Mr. Peter Power, Minister of State for Overseas Development
28 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Rarely have the challenges facing the global community been as formidable, or as pressing, as those of today. And rarely has the need been greater for collective action and for the facilitating framework which is uniquely provided by the UN.”
Nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation: “Our discussions in New York over the past week have highlighted some of the most urgent issues on the Organisation’s agenda at present, including climate change, global poverty and hunger, nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.”
Disarmament: “Building peace and ending conflict cannot be accomplished without also removing the means of conflict.”
Cluster Munitions: “Last year, Ireland was proud to host the diplomatic conference which adopted the Convention on Cluster Munitions - an historic agreement to ban the production and use of these most destructive of weapons. I warmly welcome the considerable progress which has been made this year towards entry into force. We now need less than ten further ratifications to achieve this and I urge all those Governments which have not yet signed and ratified the CCM to do so at the earliest opportunity.”
Nuclear non-proliferation: “Ireland has always been strongly supportive of the lead role played by the United Nations in working to promote non-proliferation and to remove the threat posed by nuclear weapons. Ireland was the first country to sign and ratify the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Next year's Review Conference will be of critical importance for efforts to help strengthen the international non-proliferation system, at a time when the threats it faces have perhaps never been greater. We encourage all Member States to work actively and constructively to achieve a successful outcome and will engage fully in that effort ourselves.”
Nuclear disarmament: “Ireland also applauds and welcomes the renewed focus on nuclear disarmament. We encourage the United States and Russia as they work towards a legally-binding follow-on arrangement to the START treaty, which expires at the end of this year.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “It is equally urgent that Iran responds to the demands of the international community to cease uranium enrichment and to answer satisfactorily all questions regarding its nuclear activities, particularly in light of the latest revelations regarding the previously undisclosed nuclear site at Qom. The international community is ready to engage with Iran and has made generous offers. It is for Iran to decide whether it wishes to pursue the path of engagement or to opt for increasing isolation. We very much hope that the forthcoming discussions on 1 October with Iran will mark the start of a constructive engagement on the major issues of international concern.”
Multilateralism: “With each new challenge which appears, the value of common action to address it at global level becomes more apparent. There is a much clearer appreciation of this Organisation’s potential to deliver an effective response. Let us seize the moment and work together to ensure that the opportunity we have at present is transformed into real achievement.”
Israel
H.E. Mr. Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister
24 September 2009
Weapons of Mass Destruction: “But if the most primitive fanaticism can acquire the most deadly weapons, the march of history could be reversed for a time. And like the belated victory over the Nazis, the forces of progress and freedom will prevail only after an horrific toll of blood and fortune has been exacted from mankind. That is why the greatest threat facing the world today is the marriage between religious fanaticism and the weapons of mass destruction.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “The most urgent challenge facing this body is to prevent the tyrants of Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Are the member states of the United Nations up to that challenge? ... Above all, will the international community stop the terrorist regime of Iran from developing atomic weapons, thereby endangering the peace of the entire world?”
Italy
H.E. Mr. Silvio Berlusconi, President of the Council of Ministers
23 September 2009
Non-proliferation: “L’Aquila confirmed that the G8 still has a major role to play in geopolitical, non-proliferation, and development issues.”
Jamaica
H.E. The Honourable Kenneth Baugh, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade
26 September 2009
Disarmament and Non-proliferation: “The pursuit of complete disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation, particularly weapons of mass destruction, must remain a shared goal. The 2010 Review Conference of the Non-Proliferation Treaty provides an opportunity for renewed commitment to strengthen the nonproliferation regime.”
Small Arms: “We must increase our efforts to counter transnational organized crime, narco trafficking and the illicit trade in small arms and ammunition, which threaten the rule of law and democratic governance in many countries and fuel the spread of international terrorism.”
Japan
H.E. Mr. Yukio Hatoyama, Prime Minister
24 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament and Non-proliferation: “The third challenge is that of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.
“I welcome the progress being made in the negotiations on nuclear weapons reductions between the United States and the Russian Federation. I also commend the United Kingdom and France for their initiatives. It is urgent that all nuclear-weapon holding States take concrete measures on nuclear disarmament.
“There are States currently engaged in efforts to develop nuclear weapons. Furthermore, there is an increasingly greater risk that nuclear materials and nuclear technologies will be passed on to terrorists or even actually used.
“In this area as well, Japan has the potential to become a promoter of nuclear disarmament and serve as a ‘bridge’ between States possessing nuclear weapons and those without them. Japan can speak with the greatest persuasiveness in urging nuclear-weapon-holding States towards nuclear disarmament and non-nuclear nations to avoid the temptation to acquire nuclear weapons. This is because Japan is the only country which has ever suffered the devastation of atomic bombings, and as such has never ceased to appeal for ‘no more Hiroshimas’ and ‘no more Nagasakis’. Japan has also continued to maintain the ‘Three Non-Nuclear Principles’, despite its potential capability to acquire nuclear weapons.
“In April this year in Prague, President Barack Obama articulated a vision of a ‘world without nuclear weapons’, inspiring people throughout the globe. I am one of those people.”
Nuclear Testing, Fissile Materials: “In order to ensure the success of the NPT Review Conference to be held next year in May, we must take action now towards the early entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) and the early commencement of negotiations on a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT).”
North Korea’s nuclear programme: “The DPRK’s nuclear tests and missile launches are a threat to the peace and stability not only of the region but also of the international community as a whole, and cannot be condoned under any circumstances. It is imperative that the DPRK comply fully with the relevant Security Council resolutions and that the international community implement these resolutions. Japan will continue its efforts to realize the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula through the Six-Party Talks. Japan seeks to normalize relations with the DPRK in accordance with the Japan-DPRK Pyongyang Declaration, through the comprehensive resolution of the outstanding issues of concern with the DPRK, including the abduction, nuclear and missile issues, and by sincerely settling the ‘unfortunate past’.”
Security: “In the world in which we now live, national security and human security are becoming increasingly intertwined. The path forward that will save humanity is one which can bring about ‘shared security’, in which various nations, ethnicities, races and religions coexist while acknowledging the differences among them. In other words, it is to bring about a ‘shared security’ through the principles ofyu-ai or ‘fraternity’.”
Multilateralism: “In closing, I would like the distinguished representatives to recall that the United Nations is the forum in which ‘bridging’ diplomacy is manifested.”
Jordan
H.E. Mr. Nasser Judeh, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
No relevant references.
Kazakhstan
H.E. Mr. Kanat Saudabayev, Secretary of State and Minister for Foreign Affairs
25 September 2009
Non-Proliferation: “The prospect of nuclear weapons proliferation, along with a risk of their acquisition and use by terrorist organizations remains one of the most serious threats to the mankind.”
Nuclear Testing, Nuclear Disarmament, Non-Proliferation: “As a country that has experienced the horrors of nuclear tests, shut down the world’s second largest nuclear testing site, and voluntarily renounced the world’s fourth largest nuclear and missile arsenal, Kazakhstan has an absolute moral right to call for more decisive actions in the area of disarmament and radical strengthening of the weapons of mass destruction non-proliferation regime. In particular, Kazakhstan deems it is important to ensure the soonest entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty. We are encouraged by the intentions of U.S. President Barack Obama to give a new impetus to this process.”
Non-Proliferation, Nuclear Disarmament: “Kazakhstan stands for the strengthening and ensuring universality of the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. We have to acknowledge that the Treaty is asymmetric in providing sanctions only against non-nuclear-weapon states, although the nuclear powers themselves should set examples of reducing and renouncing their nuclear arsenals.
“In this regard, we welcome the latest initiatives of U.S. and Russia’s Presidents Barack Obama and Dmitry Medvedev in this field, which echo principled positions expressed more than once from this podium by President Nazarbayev, as well as in his bilateral meetings with heads of nuclear-weapon states, as well as countries that cherish such ambitions.
“Today, it is necessary to take even more decisive actions. Our President has proposed the development of a new universal Comprehensive Horizontal and Vertical Nuclear Weapons Non-Proliferation Treaty. The configuration of the new treaty and its contents will largely depend on the proposals of all interested states.”
Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Non-Proliferation: “An effective measure to strengthen the non-proliferation regime could be the establishment of international nuclear fuel bank under IAEA auspices, and Kazakhstan is ready to consider a possibility of locating it on our territory.”
Nuclear Weapon Free Zones, Nuclear Terrorism, Negative Security Assurances: “One of the considerable contributions made by Kazakhstan and the Central Asian states to the NPT implementation was this March's entry into force of the Treaty on the Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in our region. The peculiarity of this zone is that it is located between two largest nuclear powers. The zone could play a large practical role in preventing uncontrolled proliferation of nuclear materials, as well as in fighting the nuclear terrorism. We count on the support for the Central Asian zone, firstly, from the nuclear powers, meaning a possibility of providing negative security guarantees.”
Non-proliferation: “We support the U.S. initiative to hold a global nuclear security summit next year.”
Nuclear Weapon Free Day: “I would like to draw the attention of the General Assembly to a proposal of the President of Kazakhstan on declaring 29 August as the International Day for a World Free of Nuclear Weapons. This date has a deep symbolical meaning. On this day in 1949, the Soviet Union conducted its first nuclear test at the Semipalatinsk test site, and on the same day, in 1991 the test site was shut down forever by our President’s decree. We hope the General Assembly will support this initiative.”
Kenya
H.E. The Honourable Raila Amollo Odinga, Prime Minister
25 September 2009
Small Arms and Light Weapons: “The continuing inflow of refugees, small arms and light weapons is the major source of insecurity in our country.”
Multilateralism: “We should strengthen and promote effective multilateralism with the United Nations at the center.”
“Multilateralism in this globalized age is the only sure way to ensure that peace, development and unity prevail at a time when the world is riven with so many divisions.”
Kiribati
H.E. Mr. Anote Tong, President
25 September 2009
Multilateralism: “In the face of common challenges facing the global community, it is encouraging to hear Leaders call for a new global order; one where our interests as fellow citizens of the planet override national interests, particularly where global human security and lives are under serious threat. This call reaffirms the principle of collective responsibility for the common challenges that we face.
“The United Nations will continue to play a significant role in this new world order, particularly in mobilising the political will and the necessary action and resources required to implement it.”
Kuwait
His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al Jaber Al-Sabah, Prime Minister
25 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament, WMD: “With much interest we have followed the Security Council Summit which was held yesterday addressing one of the most important subjects concerning international peace and security, the subject of nuclear disarmament in order to create a world free of nuclear weapons.”
“Also, we followed with satisfaction the unanimous adoption of resolution 1887 which sets the stage for a world free of nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction. A world that fulfills the hopes of humanity and ensures the safety and prosperity of the world's peoples.”
Nuclear Weapon Free Zones, Israel's nuclear programme: “Departing from Kuwait's belief and deep rooted conviction in the importance and the necessity of the disarmament of all weapons of mass destruction, and declare the Middle East a region free from nuclear weapons. Kuwait renews its call for dealing seriously with Israel, the only country in the region that did not joint the Non-Proliferation Treaty, and calls upon Israel to join the Treaty and subject all of its facilities to the safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).”
Iran's Nuclear Programme: “While Kuwait supports the right of all states to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, it hopes negotiations between the friendly Islamic Republic of Iran and the IAEA and the concerned countries will continue with a view of reaching a peaceful solution for the Iranian nuclear file, which would dispel the fears and doubts surrounding its nature and purposes.”
Kyrgyzstan
H.E. Mr. Igor Chudinov, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
No relevant references.
Lao People’s Democratic Republic
H.E. Mr. Thongloun Sisoulith, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
Disarmament Machinery: “The ongoing impasse in the multilateral disarmament machinery continues to undermine international peace and security.”
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-proliferation: “The existence of nuclear weapons remains a grave threat to the existence of all mankind, and thus, it is vital to reinforce the importance of States to adhere to their nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation obligations. The upcoming 2010 Review Conference will be a great opportunity for the States Parties to the NPT to demonstrate strong political commitments and collective efforts to resolve the current stalemate in the non-proliferation and disarmament agenda. In this regard, it is encouraging that the Third PrepCom for the 2010 Review Conference successfully adopted the agenda and all significant procedural decisions, which will undoubtedly lay an important foundation for a productive and successful review Conference in 2010.”
Cluster Munitions: “In conjunction with arms reduction and nuclear disarmament, the issue of explosive remnants of war known as cluster munitions or Unexplored Ordinance (UXO) continues to threaten and pose serious obstacles to the socio-economic development and poverty eradication effort in more than 80 countries across the world. Among these, the Lao PDR is the most affected country, the cluster munitions victims in the Lao PDR accounts for 50% of the global cluster munitions victims which is about 300 victims recorded annually in the course of 30 years after the war ended.”
“In light of the adverse impact imposed by the cluster munitions, the Lao PDR attaches great importance to the Oslo Convention on banning and eradicating cluster munitions. In this context, we welcome and commend those countries which have signed and ratified the Oslo Convention and we hope that other countries which have not done so would follow suit in order to allow this Convention to enter into force as soon as possible.”
Latvia
H.E. Mr. Valdis Zatlers, President
24 September 2009
WMD, Nuclear Disarmament, Non-Proliferation, Nuclear Energy: “Latvia has been steadfast in the global efforts of fighting the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. We are sure that the 2010 NPT Review Conference will be an important milestone in this process. Latvia is convinced that it will promote the aims of non-proliferation, disarmament and use of nuclear energy ultimately for peaceful purposes.”
Lebanon
H.E. General Michel Sleiman, President
25 September 2009
No relevant references.
Lesotho
H.E. Mr. Pakalitha Bethuel Mosisili, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
Disarmament: "I find a linkage of this Principle [Responsibility to Protect] with other critical issues that continue to feature in our international agenda. Among these are the reform of the United Nations especially the Security Council, disarmament and the International Criminal Court (the Court)."
Multilateralism: "For as long as the Council remains undemocratic, it will continue to fail the vulnerable and the defenceless. It will continue to use double standards and remain as a tool of the foreign policies of certain states. The desired multilateral path will continue to give way to the unilateral one! It is imperative, therefore, to hasten the UN reform process."
"The theme that you have chosen for this Session of the General Assembly, Mr. President, is both timely and relevant. It is about finding effective responses to global crises and strengthening multilateralism for international peace, security and development."
Nuclear Weapons / Disarmament / Nuclear Testing / Nuclear Energy: "The United Nations was formed on the ashes of the two World Wars. Its main purpose was, and still is, to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime has brought untold misery to mankind. But, the continuing possession and development of nuclear weapons casts doubts on whether this objective can indeed be realized. At the time when the world is hungering for nuclear disarmament, why should some countries be testing, modernizing and producing new generations of nuclear weapons?
"It is our obligation, as the international community, to strive for a world that is free of nuclear weapons. We remain disappointed in those countries that are engaged in the testing of nuclear weapons. We, however, must reiterate the right of every country to the development and use of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. Peaceful use of nuclear technology can be beneficial to all humanity.
"We are delighted that, the Third Preparatory Committee Meeting for the 2010 Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), has adopted the agenda for the 2010 Review Conference. This historic achievement strengthens our optimism, that our commitment to the disarmament process will gain renewed momentum."
Liberia
H.E. Mr. Joseph Boakai, Vice-President
25 September 2009
Disarmament: “We note with satisfaction the achievement of the national disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration (DDRR) Programme carried out in conjunction with the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL). This programme was successfully concluded in July of this year.”
Liechtenstein
H.E. Ms. Aurelia Frick, Minister of Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Since my arrival in New York a few days ago, I have been encouraged by the multiple calls for international cooperation and the renewed commitment to multilateralism. For Liechtenstein, the United Nations has always been the epitome of multilateralism. And we believe that today genuine multilateralism is needed in order to address the challenges before us.”
“The notion of sovereign equality is one of the core principles of the UN Charter - and it is indeed the main pillar of genuine multilateralism.”
“The drafters of the UN Charter understood that the inclusion of all States is a prerequisite for effective multilateralism. In today's interconnected world, we must uphold this principle more than ever. But the practice of this organization has sometimes veered away from the ideals of inclusion, transparency and legitimacy.”
“The General Assembly remains the heart of genuine multilateral work.”
Disarmament, Non-proliferation: “On disarmament and non-proliferation we seem about to enter - finally - a new era.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “Important negotiations are ahead of us. We will ... continue discussions on the Arms Trade Treaty.”
Peace: “To quote Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, 'The debate is no longer between peace and justice but between peace and what kind of justice.' Indeed, peace, development and justice go hand in hand. These tasks must be fulfilled, first and foremost, by States themselves.”
Lithuania
H.E. Ms. Dalia Grybauskait, President
24 September 2009
Non-proliferation: "The global financial and economic crisis is not the only problem today. Terrorism, proliferation of weapons, energy challenges, climate change, and many other issues to be met in order to make UN goals a reality."
Non-proliferation, WMD, Nuclear Energy: "Second, the proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons will never be halted outside of an international consensus to do so. The United Nations must strengthen its policy against proliferation; in particular, we need to find ways to allow nations to develop civil nuclear power but not nuclear weapons. Therefore, a forthcoming review conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons next year provides with a good opportunity to seek diplomatic solutions, fully comply with international commitments and requirements."
Luxembourg
H.E. Jean Asselborn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Immigration
25 September 2009
Disarmament and non-proliferation: “Hence the need for taking stock and drawing lesions, taking account of the major challenges facing the international community in terms of development, human rights and the rule of law, peacekeeping and security, disarmament and non-proliferation or the fight against climate change.”
“I welcome the initiative of President Obama who engaged the Security Council in a broader discussion of questions relating to non-proliferation and disarmament, beyond the specific situations of sanctions issues. Given that in a couple of months the 8th Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons will take place, it is important to show our determination to carry out this task as regards the three pillars of the NPT, the ultimate goal being a world free of nuclear weapons.”
Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty: “The same goes for the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), the other cornerstone of nuclear non-proliferation. As mentioned yesterday at the Conference of States having ratified the CTBT, the call of the Security Council to sign and ratify the CTBT, and the commitment of the President Obama to do everything possible to ensure such ratification in the United States, is crucial. The Treaty has to be put into force. We hope these encouraging developments, will lead others to adopt a more constructive attitude, respectful of their international obligations.”
Disarmament: “Beyond the issues of non-proliferation, disarmament must not be overlooked. One can only welcome the decision of the United States and Russia to conduct negotiations for concluding a new global agreement following the expiry of the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START II) in December.”
Missile defence: “Let me add a few words about an issue which is also relevant as security and defense. I am referring to the decision by the U.S. administration to abandon the proposed establishment of a missile defense shield. It always seemed to me that the way forward in this context could not be the adoption of unilateral measures, but rather discussion and cooperation with our Russian partners to ensure our common security.”
Multilateralism: “Luxembourg remains firmly convinced of the relevance of a multilateral approach with the UN at the center, and will continue to base its policy on this conviction and to contribute to the achievement of a more just, more peaceful and more prosperous world, as enshrined in our founding Charter.”
Macedonia (The former Yugoslav Republic of)
H.E. Mr. Gjorge Ivanov, President
25 September 2009
Peace and Security: “When we address issues related to maintenance of peace and stability, unfortunately, a large majority of us, in continuity, expresses dissatisfaction regarding the current state of play. Peace and security are disturbed on a daily basis in certain regions of the world; we are faced with old and frozen conflicts, but also, with a series of new, turbulent events and tensions in several regions in the world.”
Multilateralism: “Instead of paying lip service to multilateralism, which I do not believe will help, a real approach is necessary towards its meaning, its actual effects. The Republic of Macedonia and I personally, strongly believe and strive towards effective multilateralism. We believe that strengthening multilateralism has no alternative for the further development and affirmation of the primary goals - peace, democracy and human freedoms and rights, respect of international law and principles.”
Malawi
H.E. Mr. Bingu Wa Mutharika, President
24 September 2009
Multilateralism: “I believe there is no longer an excuse for reluctance of world leaders to move closer together and to stimulate the debate on how multilateralism and dialogue could be strengthened. We need to strengthen collaboration so that the international community responds effectively to global challenges such as climate change, the financial and economic crisis, food and energy crises, armed conflicts, terrorism and above all poverty reduction.”
“I believe that working together, all nations of the world, rich or poor, powerful and powerless, we can strengthen multilateralism and dialogue for lasting international peace, security and development.”
Malaysia
H.E. The Honourable Datuk Anifah Aman, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Non-proliferation, disarmament, peace, security, nuclear energy: “Non-proliferation and disarmament are cornerstones of peace and security. We agree that at the heart of these efforts is a basic bargain comprising these elements: One, all nations have the right to peacefully use nuclear power; Two, nations that have nuclear weapons must move towards disarmament; and Three, those without nuclear weapons must disavow from acquiring them.”
Nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, WMD: “In this regard, Malaysia draws hope from any action by the major powers such as the agreement between the US and Russia to reduce their nuclear stockpiles. We also look forward to other measures to strengthen this bargain, including by strengthening the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and other international instruments related to disarmament and non-proliferation. By the same token, we view with grave concern any attempt aimed at proliferating nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction.”
Nuclear disarmament, ICJ opinion on nuclear weapons, non-proliferation: “For our own part, we have since 1996 introduced the resolution on the 'Follow-up to the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on the Legality of the threat or use of nuclear weapons', and will continue to do so at this session of the General Assembly. The resolution, among others, calls on all States to fulfill this obligation by commencing multilateral negotiations leading to an early conclusion of a nuclear weapons convention. Malaysia's efforts in this regard will not cease here. We will also participate actively in the NPT Review Conference in 2010 and play our rightful role as the President of the IAEA's Board of Governors.”
Maldives
H.E. Mr. Mohamed Nasheed, President
24 September 2009
No relevant references.
Mali
H.E. Oumar Daou, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2009
No relevant references.
Malta
Hon. Dr. Lawrence Gonzi, Prime Minister
24 September 2009
No relevant references.
Marshall Islands
H.E. Mr. Litokwa Tomeing, President
24 September 2009
Nuclear Testing: “We are deeply encourage by the UN Security Council Session today, moderated by President Obama, on Nuclear Weapons Use and Testing. Nuclear weapon testing was conducted on our islands between 1946 and 1958, at the time when we were a ward of the UN Trusteeship System. Our first hand experience as victims of nuclear weapons testing on our islands, and the painful memories that continue to haunt us over six decades, are nightmares we would not wish on anyone. The toll on human sufferance and environmental damage has been devastating. Sixty year now since the detonation of some 67 nuclear bombs, the Marshall Islands is still grappling with their after-effects. Complete recovery in terms of restoring affected islands to full economic productivity, and adequate compensation of the victims remain uncertain.”
Nuclear Disarmament: “We call for the formulation of a new perspective by which the specter of war and the use of nuclear weapons may forever be wiped off the surface of the earth. Banning nuclear weapons alone will not remove the root cause of war. Important as it may be, it does not exert an enduring influence. People are too ingenious to invent yet other forms of warfare. The world craves for something much more deep-seated than pure pragmatism. They yearn for permanent peace that springs from an inner state supported by a moral attitude.”
Mauritania
H.E. Mrs. Naha Mint Mouknass, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
28 September 2009
No relevant references.
Mauritius
H.E. Mr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Prime Minister
25 September 2009
Multilateralism: “The commitment of the entire membership of our Organization is required in forging a consensus to deal with the uncertainties of the times ahead. More than ever before, multilateralism will be the way forward.”
“Multilateralism is the cornerstone of the United Nations and should be strengthened in the face of the current global challenges.”
Peace and Security: “The United Nations Organisation is, more than ever before, the ultimate guardian of mankind’s [sic] aspiration to global peace and security. I salute its unceasing effort in resolving conflicts around the world, in particular on the African continent.”
Nuclear Disarmament and Non-Proliferation: “Mauritius nurtures the hope of a complete elimination of all nuclear weapons one day. Pending the ultimate realization of this, we support all measures aimed at halting the further spread of such weapons. In this regard, we welcome the comprehensive agenda of President Obama to achieve the goal of a world without nuclear weapons.”
Mexico
H.E. Mrs. Patricia Espinosa Cantellano, Secretary of Foreign Relations
28 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Since our last General Assembly, a number of crises have tested the capabilities of multilateral institutions to face them firmly and with a unified purpose. The international community understood that only through coordinated efforts, where developing countries were full-fledged participants, could give lasting responses to these emergencies.”
Non-proliferation, Nuclear Energy: “As President Felipe Calderon pointed out in the Security Council Summit, nuclear proliferation and the insufficient legal access to peaceful uses for atomic energy demand a renewed commitment for disarmament and the strengthening of the non-proliferation regime.”
Nuclear Disarmament: “I also echo the energetic call of global civil society - made on the 62nd Annual DPI/NGO conference in Mexico - so that governments from all over the globe undertake our responsibilities to achieve our goal of a nuclear-weapon-free world.”
Micronesia (Federated States of)
H.E. Mr. Emanuel Mori, President
25 September 2009
No relevant references.
Moldova (Republic of)
H.E. Mr. Alexandru Cujba, Ambassador, Permanent Representative to the United Nations
25 September 2009
Disarmament, non-proliferation: “A reformed, robust and effective Organization has to deliver prompt reactions and sustainable responses to the major challenges to peace, security and development, disarmament and nonproliferation, climate change, food and energy security, spread of international terrorism.”
Disarmament, Non-proliferation, CTBT: “Building a safer world requires a greater commitment of Member States in the area of disarmament, arms control and nonproliferation. We have recently witnessed a historic Summit of the UN Security Council that vowed to stop the spread of nuclear arms and endorsed a broad framework of actions to reduce global nuclear dangers. The Republic of Moldova welcomes the results of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Article XIV Conference and looks forward to continuous positive trends in the work of the Conference on Disarmament and the Preparatory Committee of the Conference on the review of the implementation of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.”
Monaco
His Serene Highness Prince Albert II
23 September 2009
Disarmament and non-proliferation: “If since its origin, the United Nations works for the maintenance of peace and international security, thanks to the operations led under its flag, it also plays an eminent federative role in the area of disarmament and non-proliferation.”
Mongolia
H.E. Mr. Elbegdorj Tsakhia, President
25 September 2009
Multilateralism: “These and other global challenges require global solutions underpinned by a new multilateralism. Multilateralism that is effective, proactive and commensurate to the existing demands. Never has the world needed an effective multilateralism as we do now, as the Secretary-General has rightly put it ‘this is the ultimate multilateral moment’.”
“Mongolia highly commends the strong leadership of Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon towards making the world Organization the center of the new multilateralism.”
“Marginalization and inadequate representation of the developing world in global decision-making is another drawback to the strength of the new multilateralism. Thus, the need for a reformed global governance structures. Mongolia believes that with its impartiality and universal legitimacy the United Nations is uniquely placed to serve as a centre of the new multileralism.”
Multilateralism, Disarmament, Non-proliferation: “Mongolia has continuously based its foreign policy on an active participation in multilateral cooperation through the UN. Our engagement has been ranging from nonproliferation and disarmament to promoting democracy and literacy, from addressing the special needs of LLDCs to responding to climate change and contributing to peacekeeping operations, programs and funds.”
Nuclear Weapon Free Zone: “As a Northeast Asian nation with an internationally recognized nuclear-weapon free status, Mongolia stands for a nuclear-weapon-free Korean Peninsula. Achieving comprehensive solution to the nuclear issue through dialogue is of utmost importance. We hope that all countries concerned will look into the future in the interests of peace and stability in the region. We stand ready to contribute to this effort.”
Multilateralism, Nuclear Disarmament, Non-Proliferation: “Yesterday the international community has witnessed another strong signal in strengthening multilateralism, particularly in the area of nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation. The Security Council’s summit chaired by President Obama confirmed the path towards a world free of nuclear weapons in its historic resolution.”
Multilateralism: “In conclusion, may I reiterate Mongolia’s strong resolve to continue its active participation in multilateral cooperation. We will spare no effort to ensure that the world Organization remains a center for coordination of the effort of the community of nations toward peace and development in the years to come.”
Montenegro
H.E. Mr. Milo Dukanovic, Prime Minister
25 September 2009
Multilateralism: “In all this, the key role belongs to the United Nations, the most important multilateral forum today.”
Peace and security: “Preserving peace and security through activities aimed at creating political, economic, social and cultural environment for the implementation and respect of international law, the rule of law and protection and promotion of fundamental human rights and freedoms, are the main principles and bases of the Montenegrin foreign policy priorities.”
Non-proliferation, WMD: “The rule of law and the protection of human rights have a crucial role in the fight against international terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and organized crime.”
Morocco
H.E. Mr. Taïeb Fassi-Fihri, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
Disarmament and Non-proliferation: “Furthermore, recent developments in Disarmament are a source of optimism. The positions expressed and declarations made at the highest levels augur well for efforts in the field of disarmament and non-proliferation.”
CTBT: “We are hopeful that all efforts will be deployed at the international and regional levels for the entry into force of the “Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty” in light of the results on article 14 of the treay.”
Mozambique
H.E. Mr. Oldemiro Marques Baloi, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
28 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Mozambique strongly believes in multilateralism, and that the United Nations is at the centre of it. We also believe that the United Nations is a privileged forum that congregates from universal aspirations for a peaceful, secure, stable and prosperous world.”
Myanmar
H.E. General Thein Sein, Prime Minister
28 September 2009
Multilateralism: "The global community must work together to meet the common challenges we face. In these trying times for our planet, multilateralism is more important than ever. Dialogue among nations of different religious and cultural backgrounds can contribute to international peace, security and development."
Nuclear Weapons / WMD / Disarmament: "The continued existence of weapons of mass destruction, particularly nuclear weapons pose the greatest threat to mankind. Myanmar believes that the total elimination of nuclear weapons is the single absolute guarantee against the threat or use of those weapons. Accordingly, we have been calling upon nuclear weapon States to undertake the step-by-step reduction of the nuclear threat with a view to achieving the total elimination of those weapons."
Negative Security Assurances: "We consider that pending the total elimination of nuclear weapons we should pursue efforts towards the conclusion of a universal, unconditional and legally binding instrument on security assurances to non-nuclear-weapon States."
Nuclear Weapons / Nuclear Energy / Non-proliferation / Disarmament : "It is our hope that all nations of the world will continue to work together to eliminate nuclear weapons so that the power of the atom can be harnessed exclusively as a tool for the benefit of mankind and not as an instrument of self-destruction. At the same time, every nation must have the right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Nuclear techniques have widespread application in such areas as food and agriculture, health, industry and science. We welcome the reaffirmation of the Summit Meeting of the Security Council on nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament held last week that the international nuclear non-proliferation regime should be maintained and strengthened to ensure the effective implementation of the NPT."
Namibia
H.E. Mr. Marco Hausiku, Minister for Foreign Affair
28 September 2009
No relevant references.
Nauru
H.E. Mr. Marcus Stephen, President
25 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Now, more than ever, we must revitalize our multilateral systems of governance in order to make them more responsive and more representative.
“The challenges of the new millennium can only be overcome through multilateral cooperation and a revitalized UN system.”
“We have seen the power of multilateral cooperation around the world and close to home.”
“The United Nations system of multilateral governance was born out of time of crisis and it ushered in over half a century of peace and prosperity. However, the benefits are not shared equally, and two thirds of humanity was largely left behind.”
Nepal
H.E. The Right Honourable Madhav Kumar Nepal, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: “International solidarity and a true spirit of global partnership are therefore indispensable. And multilateralism offers the best means and opportunity to address global problems of our times.”
Nuclear Disarmament and Non-proliferation: “Continued lack of progress in the global disarmament agenda, including on nuclear disarmament, is a worrying situation. We hope that the proposed review of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT) in 2010 will provide the necessary momentum for a substantial way forward in nuclear nonproliferation and nuclear disarmament in a coordinated manner. We also view with equal seriousness the growing menace of the proliferation of small arms which threaten peace, order and human security.”
Disarmament: “Disarmament being a comprehensive issue, we are of the view that promotion of regional discourse on disarmament would be helpful in building confidence and preparing the necessary groundwork so as to arrive at the eventual goal of general and complete disarmament. In this context, we see an important role for the United Nations Regional Center for Peace and Disarmament (RCPD) which has become functional from Kathmandu since last year. We urge Member States to be generous in extending financial support to the Center in conducting its programs and activities.”
Netherlands
H.E. Mr. Jan Peter Balkenende, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
Iran’s nuclear programme: “The Iranian nuclear issue represents a major challenge to international peace and security, to regional stability and to the non-proliferation regime. The recent revelation of a nuclear facility which was long kept secret, is additional reason for great concern. It calls for a strong reaction by the international community and for total transparency by Iran. Iran must regain the trust of the international community, comply with relevant Security Council resolutions and contribute to peace and stability in the Middle East.”
New Zealand
H.E. Mr. John Key, Prime Minister
25 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-Proliferation: “Yesterday I had the honour to observe the High-level Security Council meeting on disarmament and non-proliferation.
“As a country with a proud record of promoting nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, I was heartened by the expressions of support for a world free of nuclear weapons.
“We must take full advantage of this historic moment to advance the nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation agenda. We owe it to our generation and to those who follow us to progress our vision for a world free from nuclear weapons.
“As a proudly nuclear-free nation, and as a country that has been at the forefront of this debate since the 1970s, New Zealand stands ready to play its part.
“We are optimistic about the prospects for progress.”
Non-Proliferation: “Last week New Zealand presided over the General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna. Preventing the spread of nuclear weapons through the implementation of safeguards under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty is a fundamental pillar of the Agency's work.
“Next year sees the five-yearly review conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
“New Zealand will actively work with our New Agenda Coalition partners for a meaningful outcome at that conference, to bring us closer to a truly secure world.”
Conventional Weapons: “We will also continue to address the humanitarian harm of conventional weapons.”
Landmines: “We will work for a robust, action-oriented outcome later this year at the second Review Conference of the Anti-Personnel Landmine Convention.”
Cluster Munitions: “Looking back, I am proud of the role New Zealand was able to play in the negotiation of the Convention on Cluster Munitions. The government attaches priority to passing legislation to enable us to ratify this very significant treaty.”
Multilateralism: “We know that effective, collective action is in every country's long-term, national interest. That is what New Zealand believed in 1945; and I recommit now to taking action to live up to the ideals of the UN Charter, here, in this great chamber, this evening.”
Nicaragua
H.E. Samuel Santos Lopez, Minister of Foreign Affairs
29 September 2009
Nuclear Energy: “Meanwhile, we continue to make efforts to promote the use of alternative renewable energy sources such as wind, geothermal and solar sources, and more recently the use of biomass, and also support initiatives aimed at developing civilian nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.”
Niger
H.E. Mrs. Aichatou Mindaoudou, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and African Integration
28 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Mr. President, my delegation welcomes your decision to place the current general assembly under the theme of the implementation of multilateralism and the dialogue of cultures for peace and development. And rightly so, we believe this is a theme that could encourage the member countries to take more initiatives in implementing the objectives that we are all pursuing namely those of preserving international peace and security.”
Disarmament: “Mr. President, we are completely in favor of any action which would lead to a general and complete disarmament. We were in the forefront when it came to formalizing the commitments that we made in this area. And, at our modest level, we will continue to work in this direction.”
Cluster Munitions, Small Arms and Light Weapons: “Our most recent initiative has been the ratification of the 14th of May 2009 of the cluster munitions convention in Dublin, a formality which has made Niger one of the very first countries to do so, thus accelerating it’s entry into force. We believe that this is a gesture, which, even though it may seem minor, takes on its full meaning when we look at the very difficult road toward complete disarmament. For us this initiative, along with ratification by our country of the convention on small arms and light weapons…this is an important contribution toward disarmament at our level.”
Nigeria
H.E. Chief Ojo Maduekwe, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament: “We are gratified and greatly encouraged by the increasing rapprochement between the United States and Russia on nuclear disarmament. The idea of a nuclear-free world, the architecture of which are now being put together, has great appeal for many of us. Such an outcome, probably achievable in our lifetime, would not only result in a safer world but would free resources for use in sectors that would better benefit humanity. Nigeria encourages all nuclear powers to identify with this great initiative, this dream, and to embrace any and all initiatives that promote the achievement of the goal of a world free of nuclear armament and the apocalyptic nightmare.”
Nuclear Weapon Free Zones: “It is in this connection that I applaud the conclusion and bringing into force of the Pelindaba Treaty (The African Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone), which bans the testing, manufacturing, stockpiling, acquisition and possession of nuclear weapons in Africa. This is a commendable testimony to Africa's total rejection of the proliferation, indeed, existence, of nuclear weapons. We call on all other regions to follow suit. The NPT Review Conference coming up next year provides an opportunity that should not be missed.”
Small Arms and Light Weapons: “Let us not forget that there are weapons still being produced which have killed more people than nuclear arms. I speak, in particular, about the production and illicit export of Small Arms and Light Weapons to regions like my own, where they become weapons of mass destruction - destroying lives, property, economies and dreams - as well as the undermining of national and regional efforts at development.”
“We are all aware of the close link between small arms and organized crime, drug trafficking and, in the case of Nigeria, piracy and oil smuggling in the Niger Delta. The proliferation of small arms in West Africa is fast tur2251,ning the region into a major transit point for illicit drugs, thus also facilitating the growth of criminal syndicates, some with enough fire-power to challenge a nation's military force. This is why we continue to call on the international community to demonstrate commitment to check this menace by implementing existing initiatives, as well as develop new and legally-binding ones, where necessary, geared toward achieving the goal of preventing, combating and eradicating illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, and regulating the transfer of conventional weapons in general. The full implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action on Small and Light Weapons would be a very good beginning.”
Norway
H.E. Mr. Jonas Gahr Støre, Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2009
Multilateralism: “These weeks we are witnessing a resurrection of the authority of this Assembly and a new belief and commitment that multilateral cooperation can and must be made to work.”
Nuclear Disarmament, NPT, Nuclear Energy: “We stand on the threshold of a new era of nuclear disarmament. The Review Conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty next year must set a clear and specific agenda for the elimination of the existing nuclear arsenals, and for ensuring that nuclear technologies are only applied peacefully, to the benefit of mankind.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Recent information cast new doubt on Iran's nuclear ambition. Iran itself has the opportunity and responsibility to remove this doubt and it is imperative that it does so.”
Small Arms, Cluster Munition, Landmines, Arms Trade: “However, while nuclear weapons pose a threat of mass destruction, actual destruction of mass proportions do indeed happen every year, by small arms, cluster munitions and landmines. Norway is committed to humanitarian disarmament, motivated by the unacceptable harm these weapons cause to civilians. We urge all states to accede to the Convention on Cluster Munitions and to join intensifying efforts to control small arms and arms trade.”
Oman
H.E. Mr. Yousef Bin AI-Alawi Bin Abdullah, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Iran's Nuclear Programme: “We welcome the continued cooperation between the friendly Islamic Republic of Iran, the international community and the International Atomic Energy Agency. In this respect, we see some positive signs leading towards a diplomatic solution.”
Pakistan
H.E. Mr. Asif Ali Zardari, President
25 September 2009
Multilateralism: “This is a world in which we all depend on one another. It demands a return to the path of the United Nations.”
Peace and Security: “All nations seek security. Peace and security are closely linked. Equal security for all is important.”
Disarmament, Non-proliferation, and Security: “We support all efforts for arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation. The principle of equal security is of fundamental importance for achieving these objectives.”
“Pakistan will continue to play a constructive role: In promoting initiatives on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation on the basis of non-discrimination.”
Palau
H.E. Mr. Johnson Toribiong, President
25 September 2009
No relevant references.
Palestine
H.E. Mr. Mahmoud Abbas, President
25 September 2009
Nuclear Weapons/WMD Free Zone: “Everyone agrees on the need to achieve peace in the Middle East, counter extremism and violence, and establish the region as a zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction.”
Panama
H.E. Mr. Ricardo Martinelli Berrocal, President
24 September 2009
Peace: "Peace is the best sentiment on Earth. Peace brings with it tranquility, stability, and growth. There is no reason in the world why neighbouring peoples should offend one another. No one wins. We all lose."
Disarmament and Development: "For weapons of war only bring poverty. They steal the bread from our mouths and rob the future from our children. Weapons are not needed and, in the end, they solve nothing."
Nuclear Testing, Non-Proliferation, WMD: "Nuclear tests, however, make us all nervous. The state of alert only serves to elevate tensions between nations whose relations are already less stable. That is why we live in constant fear and mistrust, which significantly affects the dialogue between us. In Panama we respect the use of science as a tool for human development, but we reject its use as a front to conceal nuclear proliferation and the production of weapons of mass destruction."
Arms trade: "The war on drug traffic, money laundering and arms traffic is a challenge to global peace and security."
Papau New Guinea
H.E. The Honourable Samuel Abal, MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration
29 September 2009
Peace and Security: “Papua New Guinea firmly believes that strengthening international peace and security is fundamental to achieving human development, progress and prosperity.”
Weapons of Mass Destruction and Nuclear Weapon Free Zones: “My country denounces weapons of mass destruction and is fully committed to the principles of a world that is free from weapons of mass terror. This is attested to by the fact that we are a State Party to the South Pacific Nuclear Free-Zone Treaty and also fully supportive of the Treaty on the South East Asia Nuclear-Weapons-Free-Zone.”
Non-proliferation, Disarmament, Nuclear Testing: “We are now working earnestly towards early ratification of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and the Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty. We also look forward to contributing constructively to the United Nations peacekeeping operations Papua New Guinea therefore welcomes positive initiatives by the new US Government and other like-minded countries to enhance the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and encourage disarmament.”
Small Arms and Light Weapons: “A continuing major concern that Papua New Guinea has is the increase in global conflicts heightened by the illicit trade and use of small arms and light weapons which continue to cause untold suffering to millions around the world. Papua New Guinea is no exception!”
Arms Trade Treaty, Small Arms: “In the case of small arms, the global debate has focused on curbing their use. However, the supply side of weapons is never comprehensively discussed! We therefore support a proposed Arms Trade Treaty, which is still under negotiations and which will deal with one of key elements of the arms issue.”
Small Arms and Light Weapons: “In Papua New Guinea we have seen that the presence of small arms and light weapons threatens stability of communities. My Government has prioritized the need to comprehensively address this through commissioning the 2005 National Gun Summit Report which will be implemented soon.”
Paraguay
H.E. Mr. Fernando Lugo Méndez, President
24 September 2009
Militarism, Military Spending: “I would like to begin with the most important thing—I’d like to begin by talking about life. I cannot forget the Charter of the United Nations when in the first paragraph of its preamble it says that our peoples gathered together are prepared to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war. Yet, the murderous onslaught of war planes continues to kill, mutilating and terrifying children in various parts of the world, civilian populations. Yet, national treasuries continue to inflate the budgets of their defence, glibly calling this defence budget. Yet, the military industries of the most powerful countries of the world continue to reap the great benefits of this trade without any politicians questioning them, without any international news channel becoming outraged at this perverse game, which is corroding our future with the disguised lie of imposed truths.
“We are very rigorous when we estimate the high world costs that will be involved in containing pandemics ... but we forget our so-called ‘defence expenditure’ promoted by the great armaments industries. They end up trading a rifle for a container of vaccine or a war plane for an important part of the public health budget. The United Nations was born to promote peace, to eradicate war. However, the ferocious traffic in arms continues to counter our countries with its onslaught of machine guns, missiles, and grenades. Select regions of the world continue to be advantageous enclaves for the trades of the merchants of death. The conflicts which kill neighbours, destroy them, mutilate them, condemn them to be wedded forever to disgrace, is at the same time an opportunity for those to prosper who instigate, produce, and monitor the trade in warfare. Who questions these bloodstained bank notes that lie untouched in the vaults of the most powerful bank?”
“If we could just for one single moment ... believe in the great tenants of equality and shared rights of the human race, would it be enough time to ask ourselves the question of how longer will the owners of arms maximize their potential income by physically eliminating human beings?
“My country, Paraguay, declares before the world that we are absolutely committed to peace. My government is not prepared to spend the cost of a crust of bread on a weapon or war equipment. Whatever investment is made in defence must be a bare minimum compared to the social expenditure of the government.
“Paraguay will not mortgage its daily bread to dance the daily blind waltz of the warlords.”
“... we need to give serious thought to a new world economic order, the aims of which will be simple and specific, such as ... 3. Promote peaceful solutions to international conflicts, ensuring with firmness and determination to reduce the levels of militarisation and arms build-up.”
“... thousands of people are dying of hunger in this world. The natural way in which television news bulletins switch between pictures of children dying of hunger to talking about the money being made by the armaments industry of the industrialised countries really lays bear the human indifference. We really do have to create and believe in a different planet that is able to recuperate its emense natural wealth and put an end to the terrible havoc wrought by aberratious interests. We must believe in a more just and equitable international economic system where these severe contrasts and differences are a thing of a past.”
“I would like to express concern about the armaments race, which cannot be justified in any way and can only be applauded by the industry of death and barbarism. We must disarm.”
Peru
H.E. Mr. Jose Antonio Garcia Belaunde, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Military Spending, Arms Race: “In this context, allow me to mention that one of the critical problems we face is the huge sum dedicated to the acquisition of armaments. How can we explain to our peoples that, in the middle of one of the most serious world economic recessions and before the existence of more than 1 billion people in extreme poverty in the world, countries dedicate more than 1,464 billion dollars to military expenses in 2008, that is, while the economies decrease, armament expenditures are increased in constant terms every year.
“Recently, the President of Peru, Dr. Alan Garcia, through a communication, sent to Foreign Ministers and Defense Ministers of South America, that is being circulated as a document of this Assembly, seriously questioned this situation in the region asking why in the last five years, since the creation of UNASUR (Union of South American Nations), our countries have devoted to military expenditures a total of 156 billion dollars, besides additional 23 billion dollars in new weapons, cannons, airplanes and ships.
“This expense could increase up to 38 billion dollars in 2009. President Garcia made a call to stop this absurdity, through the creation of conditions that facilitate to strengthen security and confidence in the region.
“Because of it, I ratify in this opportunity the proposals of Peru to subscribe a Non-Aggression Pact that guarantees the commitments to consolidate a Zone of Peace in South America and to achieve its gradual reduction, as well as the creation in the future of a Peacekeeping and Interposition Force to impede any conflict in the region. The final objective is to create a regional collective security system, that complements and follows the Charter of the United Nations, aimed at allowing all our countries to stop the arms race in which South America seems to be absorbed, without any reason, being a region that is showing great maturity and respect to International Law in the management of its contentious matters. Our proposals will surely require a deeper study and consideration, having as a scenario background the experiences lived in other latitudes.”
Philippines
H.E. Mr. Alberto Romulo, Secretary of Foreign Affairs
25 September 2009
Non-proliferation: “Moreover, the peace dividend from the end of the Cold War never materialized, even as we continue to confront nuclear proliferation and violent conflict.”
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-proliferation: “And we should do so by focusing on five great challenges of our time: First: Promoting nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.”
“Nuclear weapons and their technology are a threat to international peace and security, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) is our central mechanism to contain and eventually eliminate this threat. The May 2010 NPT Review Conference, over which the Philippines will preside, provides the next opportunity for all of us to act on this in a concerted manner.
“We can be encouraged by certain recent development on this front. We have had the constructive atmosphere of the preparatory committee meetings to the Review Conference.”
Nuclear Testing: “President Obama has announced that he will lead the US to ratify the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), another key pillar of the global disarmament and NPT system.”
Nuclear Disarmament, Delivery Vehicles: “In addition, the United States and Russia are making headway under the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) to reduce their deployed nuclear warheads and delivery systems beyond its pending expiry this December.”
Nuclear Weapon Free Zones: “The South-East Asia Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) other regional nuclear free zones continue to reinforce the NPT system as well.”
Non-proliferation: “These positive developments inspire the Philippines, in steering the review conference, to conduct negotiations and consultations in an open and transparent manner.”
Nuclear Testing, Non-proliferation: “In this spirit, we reiterate our call for the few remaining countries that have not yet done so to accede to both the CTBT and the NPT in order to give greater hope for lasting peace and security for our world.”
Poland
H.E. Mr. Lech Kaczynski, President
23 September 2009
No relevant references.
Portugal
H.E. Mr. João Gomes Cravinho, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
28 September 2009
Non-proliferation: "Terrorism and proliferation of nuclear weapons are the biggest challenges to international peace and security. In combating these threats it is essential to implement the respective international regimes and to continue to invest in international cooperation, in particular in the framework of the United Nations. All States that signed the Non-proliferation Nuclear Treaty must honor their obligations, without reservations."
Multilateralism: "Climate change, financial and economic crisis, sustainable development, human rights, threats to the international peace and security... To face such a vast array of global challenges, there is no more appropriate strategic agent than United Nations to transmit our collective response. Today, more than ever, the collective concern reflects the national concern of each of us. Today, more than ever, I underwrite Dag Hammarskjorld's vision of a United Nations as "a dynamic instrument to develop means of executive action" not solely limited to being "a machinery of static conferences for the resolution of conflicts of interests and ideologies". To assure that the multilateralism we hereby profess be truly effective; To assure that the primacy of the United Nations in international politics and the respect for International Law is not merely rhetoric; To assure that this Organization is, increasingly more, the dynamic instrument Dag
Hammarskjold glimmered; We must go further ahead in the reform of the United Nations."
Qatar
His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Amir
23 September 2009
Conventional Weapons, Nuclear Weapons: “It is clear to us that the serious crises of the world have been exacerbated when influential nations in the international order decided, in previous situations, to transfer tackling the most important issues of war, peace and progress, from the United Nations framework to another setting. Such was the case with regard to the context of conventional and nuclear arms, security agreements and arrangements that cover the broad spectrum from the outer space to policy and economics.”
Security: “I would like however to emphasize to you that we consider the security of the world our security and the prosperity of the world our prosperity. There could be neither peace nor prosperity when the world civilization is threatened by an energy crisis that is far greater than any kind of war, even a nuclear one.”
Multilateralism: “But in the emerging circumstances and realities, those who have called for monopolizing the international decision-making need to realize that we live in one world. And in one world like this one, concern is equal, even though the sizes of power are not.
“This attitude represents for us a confirmation and a vindication of our view upon which we insist, namely that it is time to go back to the United Nations system as a framework that accommodates everyone, and provides a venue recognized by all and a Charter accepted by all nations of the Earth that are aware that equal rights do not run counter to the division of responsibilities which takes into account the various capabilities and capacities of the parties.
“We are aware and appreciative of the great importance of an overarching international authority as expressed by a legitimate international order, governed by a Charter, by the law, and by an experience of a bloody and tumultuous history.”
“Going back to the authority of the United Nations is not only necessary to solve intractable crises like the one of the Middle East, but is so vital to realize hopes that can be attained only by a legitimate international consensus within an order agreed on.”
Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. Lee Myung-bak, President
23 September 2009
WMD, delivery vehicles, non-proliferation: “Today, global peace is being threatened by the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery. To respond to these challenges, strong determination and cooperation among all countries are essential in strengthening the international non-proliferation regime, including the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).”
Multilateralism: “We are confronted with diverse and complex challenges that can only be overcome with international cooperation. In meeting the expectations of the international community, we hope that a renewed and strengthened United Nations will assume a greater role.”
North Korea's nuclear programme: “The Republic of Korea will take an active part in the concerted international efforts to dismantle the nuclear programs of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). We urge the DPRK to join in these efforts, and return to the Six-Party Talks right away and without any preconditions.
“The Joint Declaration on the Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula of 1992 of which both Koreas committed themselves must be observed. On such a basis, the Republic of Korea will increase dialogue and exchanges with the DPRK, and strengthen cooperation with the international community for the development of the DPRK.
“I want to make it clear that now is the time for the DPRK to make the decision, to achieve genuine peace on the Korean Peninsula and for its own sake as well.”
Nuclear Weapon/WMD Free Zones: “In particular, a nuclear weapons free Korean Peninsula must be realized in order to attain peace in Northeast Asia and beyond. Denuclearization is a prerequisite to paving a path toward genuine reconciliation and unification in the Korean Peninsula, which is the only remaining divided region in the world.”
Romania
H.E. Mr. Cristian Diaconescu, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: “We need a 21st century multilateralism that is both innovative and pragmatic. Romania is devoted to such a cause and we seek to expand ourcooperation with the UN in ever more creative and pragmatic ways.”
Non-proliferation, WMD: “Among the perils that threaten us most, terrorism and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction remain of major concern. Nuclear proliferation is of particular concern, given the increasing access to technology capable of large-scale destruction. In this context, we urge those Member States that areconsidering nuclear programs to fully heed the concerns of the world community and to strictly abide by international norms and regulations.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation and nuclear testing: “Lately there have been encouraging signs in the realm of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. We highly appreciate the recent Agreement of the US and Russian Presidents for nuclear arsenal cuts, which confirms the commitments undertaken by the two States. As there are also positive indications from the United States with respect to the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty ratification, we have now the confidence within the international community that the biggest nuclear powers are determined toadvance the nuclear disarmament process.”
Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Dmitry Medvedev, President
23 September 2009
Multilateralism: “The unification agenda has been dictated by life itself. And this dictates the growing demand for the UN as a time tested mechanism of harmonization of interests of different counties.
“As never before, we are feeling the need for informal collective leadership; increased role of such formats as G8, and recently, G20, as well as other negotiation and mediation fora. These platforms act not against anyone but in favor of advancing converging interests of their participants. Their agreed approaches are being implemented through the UN system as well harmonically complementing the comprehensive efforts of this Organization as a pillar of the current world order.”
Disarmament and Multilateralism: “A highly challenging task is to move forward the process of multilateral disarmament under the UN auspices. You are aware that positive trends have emerged in overcoming the protracted crisis in this area. The Conference on Disarmament in Geneva has adapted its program of work.”
Outer Space Security and Missiles: “Let me mention the Russian-Chinese initiative regarding a treaty on the prevention of the placement of weapons in outer space as well as our proposal to universalize the Russian-American Treaty on the Elimination of the Intermediate-Range and Shorter-Range Missiles.”
Nuclear Disarmament: “Russia will steadily follow the path of verifiable and irreversible reductions in nuclear weapons as an essential element of ‘the new start’ in our relations with the United States. President Obama and I signed a relevant document in Moscow last June. A mandate for further negotiations was agreed upon — to elaborate a legally binding treaty. This treaty should replace the Treaty on the Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms, which expires this December.”
Missile Defence: “I would like to emphasize the objective relationship between strategic offensive and defensive arms. The recently announced adjustments in the US plans of missile defense system development are in our view a constructive step in the right direction that deserved the positive response of the international community. We are prepared to engage in a thorough discussion of the US proposals and relevant Russia’s initiatives regarding cooperation in this area to reach generally acceptable arrangements.”
Missile Defence and Nuclear Disarmament: “The real progress in nuclear disarmament is impossible without addressing such matters of principle as NMD and non-nuclear SOA potential. I expect that the work on a new treaty will be fully consistent with relevant provisions of the joint document endorsed by the US President and me during our meeting in Moscow.”
Nuclear Disarmament: “We believe that other nuclear States should join the disarmament efforts of Russia and the United States. It is not necessary to wait for further progress in the Russian-American disarmament process. We can start elaborating in advance acceptable and practical arrangements that take into account the differences in the size of potentials. For instance, we can use as an example the decisions of the 1921-1922 Washington Conference on the naval armaments when the participants agreed on their maximum size of their fleets without trying to achieve their equal levels. If we use the same approach today based on the actual status of nuclear powers arsenal we will give the rest of the world a necessary signal of certainty that the unaccounted numbers will be added to the ‘equation’ of strategic stability.”
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-Proliferation, and Nuclear Energy: “The 2010 NPT Review Conference will focus on the issues of nuclear disarmament, strengthening of the nuclear non-proliferation regime and peaceful atom. We are looking forward to its success.”
Non-Proliferation: “The Global Nuclear Security Summit scheduled for next April will provide a good opportunity for a more detailed discussion of these issues.”
Nuclear Terrorism and Nuclear Energy: “We have also agreed with the US Administration on joint steps for further progress in such aspects of nuclear security as prevention of nuclear terrorism, and expanding the access for all good faith NPT Members to the achievements of peaceful atom. We call for collective cooperation on these matters.”
Nuclear/WMD Free Zones: “In order to reach a common understanding on such important issues we must engage all nations and influential international organizations into the abovementioned negotiation processes. The international community has at its disposal such well-tested measures for increasing the level of regional and international security as nuclear free zones. In particular, there is an urgent task of establishing a zone free of all types of WMDs and their means of delivery in the Middle East. This is a long-standing issue. And the 1995 NPT Review Conference had adopted a relevant resolution in this regard.
“Russia as a member of the Quartet of international mediators on the Middle East settlement consistently supports the efforts aimed at strengthening the nuclear non-proliferation regime in the Middle East. Russia has made specific proposals in the framework of the NPT review process to search for generally acceptable ways of implementing the relevant NPT decisions. All countries of the region need to take an active stance on this issue and demonstrate their willingness to ensure a real progress in establishing a nuclear free zone.”
North Korea’s nuclear programme: “We also need to speed up the work towards a mechanism to ensure peace and security in North-East Asia. Russia made its proposals in this regard to the participants in the Six-Party Talks. Under the present circumstances this task becomes even more urgent.”
Rwanda
H.E. Mr. Paul Kagame, President
24 September 2009
Multilateralism: “This is the time to embrace 'true multilateralism'.”
“Multilateralism has always been the key tenet in forging a fairer international community – based on equitable global governance; the United Nations itself is based on this very sound and tested principle and practice.”
“Engaging and embracing the majority world into multilateralism of decision-making, trade and prosperity – these should be our shared vision.”
Saint Kitts and Nevis
H.E. The Honourable Denzil Douglas, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: “To this end, Mr. President, my government will support an enhanced role for political forums such as the United Nations to strengthen multilateralism.”
Non-proliferation and disarmament: “The non-proliferation of nuclear weapons today, and a world free of nuclear weapons tomorrow, should be the goal of us all.”
Saint Lucia
H.E. Mr. Rufus George Bousquet, Minister for External Affairs, International Trade and Investment
28 September 2009
Small Arms and Light Weapons: “It matters little if we are rich but insecure in our homes and our country, and that is why, in recent years, the issue of small arms and light weapons has emerged as a major source of concern to us. Small developing states like Saint Lucia continue to be threatened by the disturbing spread of small arms. The illicit introduction of these weapons into our societies has created a heavy burden in our region which has seen the emergence of an unacceptable level of gun violence, worsened by the social distress caused by the economic and financial crisis.”
“In this connection St. Lucia reiterates its support for the implementation of relevant General Assembly resolutions on the “Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its Aspects,” most recently, Resolution 63/72 of 2nd December 2008. St. Lucia also wishes to express its continual support for the full implementation of the International Instrument to Enable States to identify and Trace, in a Timely and Reliable Manner, Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons (the International Tracing Instrument).”
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
H.E. Mr. Camillo Gonsalves, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2009
Multilateralism: “In his welcome and inspiring maiden statement to the General Assembly last Wednesday, our esteemed brother and friend President Barack Obama of the United States correctly identified the challenges to our multilateral unity as ‘rooted in a discontent with the status quo.’ We wholeheartedly endorse this assessment. It is a discontent with the status quo of a 63-year-old Security Council, which continues to administer our collective security unchanged and impervious to the logic of a new world. ... It is a discontent, even, with the stagnation of efforts to change the status quo in other critical respects.”
Small arms and light weapons: “The unholy trinity of exogenous assaults on our developmental prospects posed by globalization, climatization and stigmatization cannot be ignored. Nor can the security threats engendered by the illicit trade in firearms and narcotics. We in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines find ourselves unfortunately located between the supply and demand of these poisons and weapons, and their deleterious effects rip holes in our cohesive social fabric. The Caribbean, which produces not one single firearm and one single kilo of cocaine, is awash in drugs and guns, and is now the sub-region with the world’s highest per capita murder rate. Our plight cannot be ignored.”
Multilateralism: “Just as our myriad bilateral friendships and partnerships span geographic, economic and ideological divides, so too must our multilateral cooperation be inclusive and participatory. We can no longer maintain the illusion of holding hands in artificial solidarity across the moats and turrets of structural and systemic inequalities. Modern multilateralism cannot proceed on the bases of the included and the excluded, of the political haves and have-nots. Nor can token assimilations of individual developing countries serve to mask the necessity for deep structural changes to existing power arrangements. We urge our brothers and sisters who have gained limited access to the halls of power to not only be a voice for their excluded brothers, to not only remember where they came from, but also to view themselves as the tip of the spear, the thin edge of the wedge, that will use their newfound privileges to dismantle these structures from within, even as we continue to make our presence felt outside the citadels of stasis and indifference.”
Samoa
H.E. The Honourable Tuila’epa Lupesoliai Sailele
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Individual actions by states cannot in themselves provide a solution. We must shoulder our responsibility to act together to meet the threat through concerted multilateral action which underpins the spirit of our organization.”
Disarmament, nonproliferation, small arms and light weapons, war : “Wars are futile and serve no useful purpose. They would not end unless disarmament, nuclear non-proliferation and the illicit small arms and light weapons are brought under effective control.”
Nuclear Testing: “The task of building peace lies with every nation and that is why we welcome the United States decision to move forward the with ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. We remain hopeful that the Treaty will enter in to force soon.”
San Marino
H.E. Mrs. Antonella Mularoni, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Multilateralism: "The strengthening of multilateralism, included by the President in the theme proposed for this General Debate (Effective responses to global crises: strengthening multilateralism and dialogue among civilizations for international peace, security and development) is, in my opinion, a central element. In fact, the International Organizations, and the United Nations in the first place, promote the affirmation of democracy, rule of law, freedoms and human rights as a condition for economic and social development, cultural growth and education."
Peace: "However, an effective response to terrorism must also be based on education to understanding and respect for each other, as a sine qua non condition to achieve justice and peace."
Disarmament / Cluster Munitions: "Finally, the protection of human rights is strictly connected with the need to guarantee every human being and every population the possibility to live in peace and justice. It is therefore necessary to give new momentum to the disarmament process. In this regard, an important step was taken last year by adopting the Convention on Cluster Munitions, an instrument that will prove essential to protect the affected populations from these weapons having devastating effects on civilians. The Republic of San Marino attaches great importance to this Convention, focused on human dignity and the interests of victims, hopes that the Convention will quickly enter into force, and therefore calls upon the states which have not yet ratified it to do so as soon as possible."
Sao Tome and Principe
H.E. Mr. Fradique Bandeira melo de Menezes, President
24 September 2009
Multilateralism, Peace, and Security: “Peace and security combined with economic development can only be achieved through multilateral efforts.”
Saudi Arabia
His Royal Highness Prince Saud Al-Faisal, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: “The crises, perils, conflicts and issues with which mankind everywhere is currently faced can be solved effectively only on the basis of international legitimacy, international law and multilateral cooperation in meeting the requirements of universal justice.”
Peace and Security: “In any issue with which we are confronted, in any conflict that threatens us, and in any crisis that could have fearful consequences and implications for international peace and security, or for global sustainable growth and prosperity, regardless of the complexity of its details and the intricacy of conflicting interests and differing positions, proposed solutions and initiatives must be evaluated, positively or negatively, in the light of a single standard criterion, namely international legitimacy, international law and universal justice.”
Weapons of Mass Destruction, Israel's nuclear programme: “Departure from the principles of international legitimacy, the rules of international law and the requirements of universal justice remains the root cause of the risks of proliferation of weapons of mass destruction that are overshadowing the Middle East, including the Gulf region. This is attributable to the fact that, for decades, a blind eye was turned to the Israeli nuclear programme which, far from even being ostensibly designed to generate electric power, produces nothing but weapons of mass destruction. This original sin has motivated some states to push ahead with the development of nuclear capabilities, using the pretext of double standards to justify non-compliance with international resolutions in this regard.”
Nuclear Weapon Free Zones: “Once again, we find that the easiest, most expeditious and most effective solution lies in declaring the entire Middle East, including the Gulf region, a zone free from all nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction.”
Senegal
H.E. Mr. Abdoulaye Wade, President
24 September 2009
No relevant references.
Serbia
H.E. Mr. Boris Tadic, President
25 September 2009
Multilateralism: “As UN member States, it is incumbent upon us to work more closely together to reaffirm the rules that govern the international system; to reinforce the territorial integrity of member States; to entrench interdependence; and to complete the transition from the old order based on political and economic domination, to one established on equitable cooperation amongst all nations.”
Multilateralism / Nuclear Disarmament: “This is the only way to build a future of global peace, stability, and prosperity. It is the only way to enhance the dialogue between civilizations; to make multilateralism more effective; and to provide for sustainable development and eradicate poverty throughout the world. And it is the only way to effectively fight terrorism and cross-border organized crime, and promote nuclear disarmament.”
Seychelles (Republic of)
H.E. Mr. Ronald Jumeau, Ambassador, Permanent Representative
29 September 2009
No relevant references
Sierra Leone
H.E. Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, President
24 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Dialogue promotes understanding; understanding enhances cooperation; cooperation gives vitality and legitimacy to the institutions and mechanisms that have been structured for meeting our common challenges and goals.”
“In the bid to promote effective multilateralism, my country has continued to engage the international community to effect various reform measures aimed at strengthening our intergovernmental organizations including, the Bretton Woods institutions, with a view of making them more inclusive, transparent and democratic in their decision making.””
“Let us promote mulitlateralism and strengthen our collaborative efforts to contain the rising threats to our planet.”
Small arms and light weapons, Non-Proliferation: “A final critical threat to future stability of nations around the world is the increasing proliferation of small arms and light weapons which, as former Secretary General Kofi Annan recently emphasized, are tantamount to weapons of mass destruction in slow motion, possessing the capability of destabilizing countries and entire regions.”
Singapore
H.E. Mr. George Yeo, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Multilateralism: "Looking ahead, however, it is not going to be a bipolar world but a multipolar world. ... A multipolar world means a messier world with a diversity of political systems, values and worldviews. Non-state actors like civil society organisations must increasingly be engaged. At the same time, we are all members of the same human family sharing the same planet. Looking ahead, we will need more effective global governance across a wide range of issues from protection of human rights and international financial regulation to efforts combating pandemics, climate change and terrorism. In a sense, the greatest challenge confronting us today is that of effective global governance. We do not want a global government but we do need better coordination, cooperation and enforcement in many areas."
Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Miroslav Lajcák, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
Arms Race: "The old saying "Si vis pacem, para bellum - if you seek peace, prepare for war" has resulted in an unprecedented arms race, which, in itself, has turned to be a source of fear and insecurity."
WMD, delivery vehicles, nuclear terrorism, non-proliferation: "Slovakia is, particularly, very concerned over the risk of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery falling into the hands of non-state actors, especially terrorist groups. In this connection, Slovakia is ready to work with all partners towards a successful outcome of the 2010 NPT Review Conference that should result in an enhanced international nuclear non-proliferation regime."
Nuclear Testing: "It is our priority to outlaw nuclear testing and see the CTBT enter into force as well."
Arms Trade Treaty, Conventional Weapons: "Slovakia also calls for early start of substantive negotiations on the Arms Trade Treaty, which is essential for reducing the unacceptable human cost resulting from the proliferation of conventional arms."
Iran's nuclear programme: "Slovakia, together with the other members of the European Union, is gravely concerned at Iran's continued defiance of its international obligations, including Security Council's demands to suspend its nuclear activities. We take note of Iran accepting the P5+1 talks and we call on Iran to commit to the diplomatic negotiations in order to restore international community's trust and make real and urgent progress."
North Korea's nuclear programme: "Also, we repeatedly strongly condemned the nuclear test carried out by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and its launches of missiles. We call on the DPRK to revoke its position on Non-proliferation Treaty and to join the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty."
Multilateralism: "Slovakia is a keen believer in effective multilateralism and the central role of the United Nations in it. We therefore very much welcome the main theme of our deliberations during this general debate in order to achieve tangible results in the three pillars of the UN work: peace and security, human rights and development."
Slovenia
H.E. Mr. Danilo Türk, President
24 September 2009
Disarmament and Non-proliferation: “In the domain of disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control we witnessed far too many stumbling blocks in the past. UN action needs to be energized and the forthcoming review of the NPT has to be a step forward.”
Peace and Security: “In addition to structural change, the UN needs to strengthen its practical role in the maintenance of international peace and security.”
Solomon Islands
H.E. The Honourable Fredrick Fono, Deputy Prime Minister
25 September 2009
Military spending and disarmament: “As a peace loving country, we need to seriously seek a stable international system. This can be achieved by calling for global restraint on all military spending and taking firm commitment to begin a holistic multilateral disarmament negotiation.”
Somalia
H.E. Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, President
25 September
No relevant references.
South Africa
H.E. Mr. Jacob Zuma, President
23 September 2009
Multilateralism: “In a world that is increasingly inter-connected and inter-dependent, international problems can only be effectively resolved through multilateral cooperation. The UN must continue to be at the centre of multilateralism. But it needs to be reformed if it is to carry out its mandate effectively, efficiently and transparently.”
Peace and Security: “We appreciate that there can be no lasting peace without development, and no development without security.”
“The search for global peace, stability and security cannot be separated from the pursuit of justice, self-determination, human rights and economic development.”
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-Proliferation, Nuclear Energy: “Let us take up this new momentum and utilise the opportunity of the 2010 Review Conference to recommit ourselves to the full implementation of obligations under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.We should ensure a balance between the objectives of disarmament, non-proliferation and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.”
“We also appreciate the recent pronouncements by some nuclear weapon states on their intentions to reduce their nuclear arsenals. Let us take up this new momentum and utilise the opportunity of the 2010 Review Conference to recommit ourselves to the full implementation of obligations under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. We should ensure a balance between the objectives of disarmament, non-proliferation and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.”
Spain
H.E. Mr. José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, President of the Government
24 September 2009
Multilateralism: “Spain is a country committed to multilateralism, to the need to continue to build a system of global governance. ... Multilateralism is not just a procedure for adopting decisions and for solving conflicts in the international order. It is that, but its more than that. In order for multilateralism to be effective and to be lasting, it also requires above all two material premises to be fulfilled. Firstly, multilateralism is inseparable from faithfulness to democratic values, to human rights, and to effective equality between men and women throughout the world.”
“Secondly, and this is no less important, multilateralism requires a culture or at least a climate of dialogue, of respect, of recongition between countries, between regions, and speaking more broadly, between civilizations.”
“This multilateralism that we want is reinforced by the paradigm of human rights and universal values that we all share as responsible members of the international community.”
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-Proliferation, Landmines, Cluster Munitions: “The new multilateralism has been essential in order for us to take some steps forward in the area of disarmament and armaments control, such as the prohibition of anti-personnel landmines and cluster bombs. And now the world has the opportunity to take a great step forward. The abolition of nuclear weapons. President Obama has had the courage to put this on the table and the United States and Russia, a country which will continue to be key for Euro-Atlantic security, those countries are negotiating on the greatest cut in their arsenals ever seen. And we encourage them in this effort, and we have great hope in a special summit of the Security Council being convened to cope with the fight against nuclear proliferation. Spain, a nation which renounced to develop or possess nuclear weapons, fully shares this objective and we will support it with all the means at our disposal. And we should first of all strengthen the Non-Proliferation Treaty, and that will coincide in May 2010 with the presidency by Spain of the European Union. And I undertaken to do everything within my power from Spain and within the European Union to ensure that this important NPT Review Conference comes up with specific results so that we can bring about a world that is free from nuclear weapons. That’s our perspective.”
Sri Lanka
H.E. The Honourable Ratnasiri Wickramanayake, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
Peace: “In the aftermath of conflict, peace cannot last without reconciliation.”
Multilateralism: “Thus, multilateralism must be strengthened to meet contemporary global crises, such as terrorism, the global financial crisis, the adverse consequences of climate chance, food and energy security as well as the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).”
Arms, Ammunition, WMD: “The threat posed to maritime security through the transportation of large consignments of sophisticated equipment and lethal cargo to provide logistical support to terrorist groups requires our urgent attention. In recent years Sri Lanka has experienced the most unprecedented and dangerous forms of maritime terrorism. Our Navy has successfully confronted and interdicted the movement of virtual floating warehouses of arms and ammunition, which posed a grave through to the security and stability of our nation and to our region. At the global level, this phenomenon calls for a revision of existing laws pertaining to boarding and search of vessels in the high seas.”
“We need a comprehensive legal framework to address all aspects of safety and security of maritime navigation, going beyond the current concerns on Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). This would make a distinct contribution to security global peace and security.”
Sudan
H.E. Ghazi Salahuddin Atabani, Adviser to the President
28 September 2009
Nuclear Weapons, Disarmament: “The UN, the inception of which embodied diversity, has to foster a dialogue among cultures and civilizations, respect for peoples', political and social choices, settlement of disputes through peaceful means and and freeing the world of nuclear weapons.”
Peace: “Therefore, we urge the fulfillment of all commitment to foster peace and stability as well as reconstructing the ravages of years of war so that peace is meaningful.”
Suriname
H.E. Mr. Ramdien Sardjoe, Vice-President
25 September 2009
Multilateralism: “The United Nations therefore remains the central forum for addressing global issues and we continue to advocate for effective multilateralism not as an option but as a mere necessity.”
“Of equal importance is strengthened cooperation within and between regional groups. We should continue to promote and pursue intensified channels of political dialogue between regional groups in reaffirming our shared commitment to multilateralism.”
Peace and Security: “In order to achieve international peace, security and development, cooperation should be based upon constructive and respectful dialogue.”
Swaziland (Kingdom of)
H.E. King Mswati III, Head of State
25 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament, Nuclear Energy, Peace: “If we want to achieve peace in the world it is important that we reduce and eventually eradicate nuclear arms which pose a threat to our planet. We need to encourage nations that are at a stage of developing and those that already possess nuclear power to utilize it for power generation that shall support and stimulate economic growth. Therefore we encourage the UN agency to continue monitoring countries that are developing nuclear and also ensure that countries that already have nuclear capability reduce and eventually eradicate their nuclear arms so that it becomes a thing of the past. In order to accelerate the eradication of nuclear weapons the UN must set targets and timelines for compliance.”
Switzerland
H.E. Mr. Hans-Rudolf Merz, President
24 September 2009
Multilateralism: “International cooperation has become vital. The UN is the place where this cooperation happens. Today, the world needs the UN more than ever.”
Syrian Arab Republic
H.E. Mr. Walid Al-Moualem, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Peace: “From this very rostrum, most speakers stress that a just and comprehensive peace is an urgent requirement for the realization of the interests of all parties in the [Middle East] and the world at large. However, paying lip service to the need for peace is categorically different from working for peace. Actions inside and outside the region spoke louder than words and peace remained elusive.”
Nuclear Weapon Free Zone, Israel’s nuclear programme: “For years Syria has been calling for the establishment of the Middle East region as a zone free from all weapons of mass destruction. To this end, Syria tabled a draft resolution before the Security Council in 2003. Today Syria stresses the need to commit Israel to comply with the resolution adopted by the International Atomic Energy Agency on the 19th of this month regarding the Israeli nuclear capabilities in which the Agency called upon Israel to submit its nuclear facilities to its safeguard regime and to adhere to the Non Proliferation Treaty (NPT).”
Nuclear Energy: “We recall the right guaranteed by the NPT that all states are entitled to acquire nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. We fully support resorting to constructive dialogue as a means to settle all differences.”
Tajikistan
H.E. Emomali Rahmon, President
23 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament: “Tajikistan gives primary importance to strengthening the disarmament processes. Our hope is that at the 2010 Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference a constructive exchange of views on urgent issues concerning practical realization of this document will take place.”
Nuclear Weapon Free Zones: “We are convinced that the establishment of nuclear free zones is equally important both at regional and global levels.
“Given the above, Tajikistan is prepared to enhance the work on practical implementation of the provistions of the Treaty on nuclear free zone in Central Asia that came into effect on March 21, 2009.”
Small Arms and Light Weapons: “We support the leading role of the UN in combating illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, and hope that important measures for coordination of further steps in this direction will be developed at the next meeting to be convened for consideration of the Program of Action.”
Landmines: “Tajikistan supports the striving of the international community to achieve comprehensive prohibition of anti-personnel mines, and meets its commitments with regard to the Ottawa Convention by providing to the UN Secretary-General the information concerning the mine risk on annual basis.
“The first International conference to address the issues of consequences of mining was held in Dushanbe in June 2009.
“Over a long period of time Tajikistan has experienced the consequences of mining. We believe that Central Asia must be free from mining threat, and we call upon the international community to make its contribution to achieve this noble goal.”
Tanzania
H.E. Mr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, President
24 September 2009
Multilateralism: "I hope during your Presidency you will help advance the revitalisation ofthe General Assembly, reinforce multilateralism and promote dialogue among civilisations."
Peace and Security: "The gains in development can easily be eroded if peace and stability are threatened."
Thailand
H.E. Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
Peace and Security: “Central to our belief is that peace and security, development, and human rights are intertwined and must reinforce each other so that all three pillars are sustainable.”
Timor-Leste
H.E. Mr. Zacarias Albano Da Costa, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Non-proliferation: “It is not Timor-Leste's intention to develop nuclear capacity or become a nuclear power, and therefore we have ratified the non-proliferation treaty and we council caution in the development of and use of nuclear capacity.”
Togo
H.E. Mr. Kodjo Menan, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2009
Weapons of Mass Destruction and Proliferation: “To further develop weapons of mass destruction and their proliferation is in the opinion of my delegation, a menace in contradiction to international peace and security.”
Non-proliferation and Nuclear Disarmament: “My country applauds the promise made on the 24th of September at the Security Council meeting under the chairmanship of the United States of America, which was devoted to nonproliferation and nuclear disarmament.”
“Reaffirming multilateralism as the fundamental principle to remedy concerns over disarmament and non proliferation, Togo hopes that the Security Council meeting will initiate a new approach to treat this issue as a crucial one.”
Small Arms and Light Weapons: “Togo reiterates the wish to see this present session of the General Assembly session to reinforce the process of realizing the project that aims to negotiate a treaty on the trade of small arms following the example of what ECOWAS has done on this issue.”
Tonga
H.E. The Honourable Feleti Vaka’uta Sevele, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
No relevant references.
Trinidad and Tobago
H.E. The Honourable Patrick Manning, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
http://www.un.org/ga/64/generaldebate/TT.shtml
Small Arms and Light Weapons: “One of the most significant problems facing the global community is organized transnational crime of increasing strength, including terrorist activity, as well as the illegal traffic of drugs, arms and persons. This activity has a most corrosive effect on our small societies, fuelling, for example, trafficking in small arms and light weapons, with troubling consequences. In CARICOM, we have been pooling our resources in the fight. There is now unprecedented cooperation among the legal and security systems of our countries, but we need more resources in our struggle with this menace.”
Trinidad and Tobago
H.E. The Honourable Patrick Manning, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
Small Arms and Light Weapons: “One of the most significant problems facing the global community is organized transnational crime of increasing strength, including terrorist activity, as well as the illegal traffic of drugs, arms and persons. This activity has a most corrosive effect on our small societies, fuelling, for example, trafficking in small arms and light weapons, with troubling consequences. In CARICOM, we have been pooling our resources in the fight. There is now unprecedented cooperation among the legal and security systems of our countries, but we need more resources in our struggle with this menace.”
Tunisia
H.E. Mr. Abdelwaheb Abdallah, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
Multialteralism, Security, Peace: "To conclude, I would like to reiterate that our countries' success in securing development and promoting relations of cooperation among them is closely linked to an international environment that is characterized by security, stability, and justice. While Tunisia renews its commitment to the values of peace and to the principles of international legality in finding just and sustainable solutions to the ongoing world issues, it insists on the necessity to reinforce the values of moderation, tolerance and mutual respect in the relations between nations and peoples as well as on building bridges of communication and dialogue between civilizations, cultures, and religions."
"We believe that the international community needs to further increase its efforts and focus them on achieving sustainable development and implementing the noble universal values, that the world needs so badly, such as cooperation, tolerance, and solidarity, which in our view remain the ideal way to strengthen nations' ability to positively interact with international changes and face the challenges of the present world situation, especially that these challenges and difficulties, in light of the globalization reality, seem to have a global dimension and hence require a collective response based on responsibility sharing among all nations.
The United Nations, which constitutes the ideal framework for taking up such a collective responsibility, is also in dire need, more than ever, to adapt to the changing situation at the international level in order to keep up with developments and fulfill its mandate in the most appropriate way."
"In spite of its complex and intermingled character, the world situation will only strengthen our attachment to the United Nations and to its founding principles as the ideal framework for coordinating and uniting our efforts to address the present issues and challenges, to reform the system of international relations by implementing the noble principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, find efficient solutions to pending issues, mitigate the impact of economic and social crisis and promote solidarity based frameworks of partnership and cooperation, in accordance with a more comprehensive approach based on the close correlation between peace, security and development."
Turkey
H.E. Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Prime Minister
24 September 2009
Non-proliferation: "Threats like terrorism and the proliferation of nuclear weapons have become sources of concern on a global scale."
"On the other hand, we also call upon all countries to act responsibly, bearing in mind the serious consequences of the proliferation of nuclear weapons for the whole world."
North Korea's nuclear programme: "We supported the Security Council resolution 1874 on North Korea's nuclear test last May, in this spirit."
Peace, security, multilateralism: "We maintain our hope that the achievement of global peace and stability is within our grasp. We therefore wish to see the United Nations serve as the voice and spokesman of the global public conscience. We believe that a more representative, democratic, transparent, just and effective United Nations will be able to make a greater contribution to global peace and stability."
"The global problems of our age necessitate global scale solutions. From wars to economic crises, from hunger and poverty to terrorism, from energy security to climate change, the problems our world faces today are extremely challenging. However, none of them is insurmountable. For the resolution of these problems, we need a fair and inclusive global order which is based on trust and which regards diversity as a source of richness."
Iran's nuclear programme: "We believe that the dispute over our neighbor Iran's nuclear program, which has long preoccupied the international community, should be resolved through dialogue."
Nuclear Energy: "Turkey defends the right of all countries to benefit from peaceful use of nuclear energy."
Turkmenistan
H.E. Mr. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, President
23 September 2009
Disarmament, non-proliferation, WMD, arms race: “Support for the process of disarmament, reduction of weapons arsenals, above all, weapons of mass destruction, preventing proliferation, continues to be one of the main issues on the global agenda. We believe that in the present system of international relations there should be no space for a Cold War legacy, recurrence of bloc confrontation, when quantity and quality of arms were almost the main criteria determining the authority of states. We are convinced that the fewer armaments and arms there are in the world, the more stable and calm will be its development. The more trust and understanding there would be among countries and peoples.”
Nuclear Weapon Free Zones: “As you know, a treaty on establishing a nuclear weapon free zone in Central Asia was signed in 2006, in the city of Semipalitinsk. All countries of the region have become parties to the treaty. This joint initiative proved to be consonant with the aspirations of the majority of countries worldwide; it won high appraisal from the world community as well as approval in the UN General Assembly. In this connection, we believe it is time to hold a representative international conference in the first half of next year under the auspices of the UN on the subject of disarmament in the region of Central Asia and the Caspian Basin. Our country is ready to host such an event.”
Disarmament: “We would also welcome constructive proposals from the international community, from individual states aiming to assist global processes of disarmament and effectively considering issues of our participation in implementation of such proposals.”
Tuvalu
H.E. The Honourable Apisai Ielemia, Prime Minister
26 September 2009
No relevant references.
Uganda
H.E. Mr. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President
23 September 2009
No relevant references.
Ukraine
H.E. Mr. Victor Yushchenko, President
23 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament: "Almost 15 years ago Ukraine voluntarily gave up the third largest nuclear potential and acceded to the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty as a non-nuclear state.
"We welcome the steps taken by the United States and the Russian Federation to elaborate a new agreement to replace the Treaty between the USSR and the USA on the Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms of 31 July 1991, which expires this year."
Negative Security Assurances: "At the same time, Ukraine persistently counts on the support by the Security Council permanent members of our proposal to enhance security assurances for non-nuclear states, in particular for those which had voluntarily renounced nuclear weapons or their development. That will become an important incentive for many countries."
United Arab Emirates
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister for Foreign Affairs
26 September 2009
Multilateralism: “UAE places great importance on the role played by the United Nations system and other international organizations in strengthening multilateral cooperation for addressing the existing international challenges.”
Nuclear energy: “... we wish to stress here the UAE’s interest to develop a program for the peaceful use of nuclear energy stems from its desire to meet its growing needs of energy in the future.”
“The UAE hopes that developing a peaceful nuclear energy model which complies with the highest standards of transparency in operating the nuclear facilities and fulfills the highest requirements of nuclear safety and non-proliferation, in cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency and other responsible and experience states, will chart a new course for a large group of countries for the safe use of nuclear energy, with international support. The UAE’s commitment not to enrich uranium and reprocess fuels locally is amongst the most salient features of this model. This is a model supported by enhanced international transparency and cooperation mechanisms.”
Nuclear energy, non-proliferation and NWFZs: “This model for developing peaceful use of nuclear energy is also in line with the firm policy of the UAE. The policy supports the principles of the non-proliferation treaty and reflects the UAE’s position, which calls for making the Middle East and the Arabian Gulf a zone free of weapons of mass destruction, particularly nuclear weapons.”
Non-proliferation, disarmament, WMD: “In this context, we welcome resolution 1887 (2009) issued by the Security Council in its recent summit on the Non-proliferation and nuclear disarmament and reiterate the UAE’s rejection of existence of any weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East.”
Israel's nuclear programme, IAEA: “We also emphasize UAE’s position which calls for the implementation of the UN resolutions, which demand Israel to dismantle its military nuclear facilities, accede unconditionally to the non-proliferation treaty in tandem with other countries of the region and subject its nuclear facilities to the safeguards of the IAEA.”
Iran's nuclear programme: “In this context, we also urge the Islamic Republic of Iran to continue its cooperation with the IAEA and the international community in order to allay fears and doubts raised on the nature and the purposes of its nuclear program. We also call upon the respective parties to continue their political and diplomatic approach away from any escalations or emotions so that a peaceful agreement that ensures the security and stability of the countries of the region and their peoples can be reached.”
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
H.E. Mr. Gordon Brown, Prime Minister
23 September 2009
Non-proliferation: “We face five urgent challenges that demand momentous decisions—decisions that I would argue are epoch-making—on: climate change; terrorism; nuclear proliferation; poverty; and shared prosperity.”
Iran’s nuclear programme, Arms Race, Nuclear Disarmament: “There can be no chance of a nuclear-free world, if we allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons and in doing so set off a new arms race.”
Nuclear Weapons, Non-proliferation: “Once there were five nuclear-armed powers. Now there are nine, with the real and present danger that more will soon follow. And the risk is not just state aggression, but the acquisition of nuclear weapons by terrorists. So we are at a moment of danger when decades of preventing proliferation could be overturned by damaging rise in proliferation.”
Nuclear Disarmament: “If we are serious about the ambition of a nuclear free world we will need statesmanship, not brinkmanship.”
Nuclear Weapons, Non-Proliferation: “Tomorrow’s Security Council Resolution will be vital as we move forwards towards next year’s global nuclear security summit in April and the Review Conference in May.
“My proposal is a grand global bargain between nuclear weapon and non nuclear weapons states. And there are three elements to it where careful and sober international leadership is essential and in which Britain will play its part on the responsibilities on non nuclear states, on the rights of non nuclear states, and on the responsibilities of nuclear weapon states.”
Iran and North Korea’s nuclear programmes, Non-proliferation: “First, let there by no ambiguity: Iran and North Korea must know that the world will be even tougher on proliferation and we are ready to consider further sanctions. Britain will insist that the onus on non nuclear states is that in future it is for them to prove they are not developing nuclear weapons.”
Nuclear Energy and Nuclear Fuel Cycle: “Second, Britain will offer civil nuclear power to non nuclear states ready to renounce any plans for nuclear weapons: helping non-nuclear states acquire what President Eisenhower so memorably called “atoms for peace.” With others we will be prepared to sponsor a Uranium bank outside these countries to help them access civil nuclear power. And Britain is ready to launch a new nuclear centre of excellence to help develop an economic low-carbon proliferation-resistant nuclear fuel cycle.”
Nuclear Disarmament: “Third, all nuclear weapons states must play their part in reducing nuclear weapons as part of an agreement by non nuclear states to renounce them. This is exactly what the Non Proliferation Treaty intended. In line with maintaining our nuclear deterrent I have asked our national security committee to report to me on the potential future reduction of our nuclear weapon submarines from four to three.”
Multilateralism: “And as we learn from the experience of turning common purpose into common action in this our shared global society, so we must forge a progressive multilateralism that depends on us finding within ourselves and together the qualities of moral courage and leadership that for our time and generation can make the world new again-and for the first time in human history, create a truly global society.”
United States of America
H.E. Mr. Barack Obama, President
23 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament and Non-Proliferation: “I have outlined a comprehensive agenda to seek the goal of a world without nuclear weapons. In Moscow, the United States and Russia announced that we would pursue substantial reductions in our strategic warheads and launchers.”
“And we address our priorities here, in this institution—for instance, through the Security Council meeting that I will chair tomorrow on nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament.”
“Today, I put forward four pillars that are fundamental to the future that we want for our children: non-proliferation and disarmament; the promotion of peace and security; the preservation of our planet; and a global economy that advances opportunity for all people.”
“First, we must stop the spread of nuclear weapons, and seek the goal of a world without them. This institution was founded at the dawn of the atomic age, in part because man’s capacity to kill had to be contained. For decades, we averted disaster, even under the shadow of a super-power stand-off. But today, the threat of proliferation is growing in scope and complexity. If we fail to act, we will invite nuclear arms races in every region, and the prospect of wars and acts of terror on a scale that we can hardly imagine.
“A fragile consensus stands in the way of this frightening outcome – the basic bargain that shapes the Nuclear Non Proliferation Treaty. It says that all nations have the right to peaceful nuclear energy; that nations with nuclear weapons have the responsibility to move toward disarmament; and those without them have the responsibility to forsake them. The next twelve months could be pivotal in determining whether this compact will be strengthened or will slowly dissolve.
“America will keep our end of the bargain. We will pursue a new agreement with Russia to substantially reduce our strategic warheads and launchers.”
“We will complete a Nuclear Posture Review that opens the door to deeper cuts, and reduces the role of nuclear weapons.”
Nuclear Testing: “We will move forward with ratification of the Test Ban Treaty, and work with others to bring the Treaty into force so that nuclear testing is permanently prohibited.”
“And this week, my Secretary of State will become the first senior American representative to the annual Members Conference of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty.”
Fissile Materials: “And we will call upon countries to begin negotiations in January on a treaty to end the production of fissile material for weapons.”
Nuclear Terrorism: “I will also host a Summit next April that reaffirms each nation’s responsibility to secure nuclear material on its territory, and to help those who can’t – because we must never allow a single nuclear device to fall into the hands of a violent extremist. And we will work to strengthen the institutions and initiatives that combat nuclear smuggling and theft.”
Iran and North Korea’s nuclear programmes: “All of this must support efforts to strengthen the NPT. Those nations that refuse to live up to their obligations must face consequences. This is not about singling out individual nations – it is about standing up for the rights of all nations that do live up to their responsibilities. Because a world in which IAEA inspections are avoided and the United Nation’s demands are ignored will leave all people less safe, and all nations less secure. In their actions to date, the governments of North Korea and Iran threaten to take us down this dangerous slope. We respect their rights as members of the community of nations. I am committed to diplomacy that opens a path to greater prosperity and a more secure peace for both nations if they live up to their obligations.
“But if the governments of Iran and North Korea choose to ignore international standards; if they put the pursuit of nuclear weapons ahead of regional stability and the security and opportunity of their own people; if they are oblivious to the dangers of escalating nuclear arms races in both East Asia and the Middle East – then they must be held accountable. The world must stand together to demonstrate that international law is not an empty promise, and that Treaties will be enforced. We must insist that the future not belong to fear.”
Fissile Materials: “At the Conference on Disarmament, we agreed on a work plan to negotiate an end to the production of fissile materials for nuclear weapons.”
Multilateralism: “Now is the time for all of us to take our share of responsibility for a global response to global challenges.”
“Responsibility and leadership in the 21st century demand more. In an era when our destiny is shared, power is no longer a zero sum game. No one nation can or should try to dominate another nation. No world order that elevates one nation or group of people over another will succeed. No balance of power among nations will hold. The traditional division between nations of the south and north makes no sense in an interconnected world. Nor do alignments of nations rooted in the cleavages of a long gone Cold War.
“The time has come to realize that the old habits and arguments are irrelevant to the challenges faced by our people. They lead nations to act in opposition to the very goals that they claim to pursue, and to vote – often in this body – against the interests of their own people. They build up walls between us and the future that our people seek, and the time has come for those walls to come down. Together, we must build new coalitions that bridge old divides – coalitions of different faiths and creeds; of north and south, east and west; black, white, and brown.”
Uruguay
H.E. Dr. Tabaré Vázquez, President
23 September 2009
Peace: “In these times of globalization, it is not only the economy that has to be globalized. Peace, freedom, democracy, justice, dignity and the welfare of the people must be globalized as well.”
Uzbekistan
H.E. Mr. Vladimir Norov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
No relevant references.
Vanuatu (Republic of)
H.E. Edward Nipake Natapei, MP, Prime Minister
25 September 2009
Disarmament and Non-Proliferation: “Finally, my delegation welcomes Security Council resolution S/2009/473 on non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and disarmament. The presence of all the Leaders of the permanent five demonstrates a commitment to control the spread of weapons of mass destruction. Maintaining international peace and security will always remain humanity's greatest challenge. There is hope.”
Peace and Security: “I firmly believe that equity and sustainable development are mutually reinforcing goals because it would be difficult to underpin peace, security and growth in any process of development that leaves much of humanity behind.”
Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)
H.E. Mr. Hugo Rafael Chávez Frías, President
24 September 2009
Peace, Militarism: “Military bases are a threat to the possible peace in Colombia and in South America. We are right to have said each in our own way how concerned we are about the installation of these seven bases and I would like to denounce this and point it out. And I would like President Obama to think about it.”
“[The Pentagon] doesn’t want Obama. They just want to run the world, with all their bombs, and soliders, and bases all over the world.”
Non-proliferation, Nuclear Disarmament: “[Obama] spoke about four pillars, fine, we’ll take his word. Non-proliferation, nuclear non-proliferation—fine, please you start, kindly destroy all the nuclear weapons you have. Just go ahead.”
Viet Nam
H.E. Mr. Nguyen Minh Triet, President
25 September 2009
WMD: "In the meantime, tension and conflicts remain in various regions; and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and international terrorism continue to be the threats demanding effective responses."
Multilateralism: "We have also been successful in our foreign policy of openness, diversification and multi-lateralization of external relations in the spirit of being a friend and reliable partner of all nations and an active, constructive, cooperative and responsible member of the international community."
"This year's General Assembly is taking place at a crucial juncture when the world has witnessed many significant changes in 2009 and required from us corresponding policy decisions. I believe that only by standing shoulder-by-shoulder to enhance multilateral cooperation, could we meet the expectations and aspirations of our peoples and set out the directions for long-term development of the UN. Viet Nam will always be a supportive, active and responsible participant in this noble mission."
Militarism: "It is equally evident that policies and measures of imposition and unilateral use of force to address international security and
political issues could only result in more tension, confrontation and impasse."
Iran and North Korea's nuclear programmes: "Respect for the fundamental principles of international law and the UN Charter in international relations is the determinant for peace and security and the prerequisite for all activities of the international community. On that basis, the United Nations should continue to make active contributions to easing tension and peacefully resolving outstanding disputes and conflicts, including those relating to the DPRK and Iran."
Disarmament, Non-proliferation, WMD: "As a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, we have been an active participant in and an effective and responsible contributor to the maintenance of the world's peace and security. A peace-loving nation, Viet Nam always strongly supports and contributes to the peaceful settlement of international disputes and conflicts, the fight against trans-national crime, international terrorism and the promotion of disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction."
Yemen
H.E. Mr. Abubakr Al-Qirbi, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2009
No relevant references.
Zambia
H.E. Mr. Rupiah Bwezani Banda, President
24 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament / Biological and Chemical Weapons / Disarmament and Development / Peace / Security: "Even in the post cold war era, nuclear arms pose a threat to international peace and security and the very existence of mankind. It is for this reason that Zambia stands for general and complete disarmament, including biological, chemical, nuclear and radiological weapons, in a time-bound manner. The demand of the time is that we compete for peace not war, for development, not armaments."
Multilateralism / Nuclear Weapons / Peace / Security: "The theme for this session, presents us an opportunity to evaluate the existing multilateral approaches to address the challenges arising from globalisation. These include threats to socioeconomic development and international peace and security. There is need to develop innovative approaches and responses to these challenges which include HIV/AIDS and H1N1, terrorism, climate change, nuclear weapons and more recently, the global economic and financial crisis."
"In this globalised and inter-dependent world, no country, however, wealthy or powerful it is, can resolve all these challenges single handedly. Common solutions are, therefore, required through a strong United Nations. "
"The United Nations remains the central and principal organ for coordinating international cooperation in socio-economic development, peace, security and human rights, and the rule of law."
"There is no doubt that the United Nations continues to remain the only multilateral institution capable of addressing the challenges of our 'one world'. This session's theme attests to this fact. The world looks up to this body to encourage dialogue among civilizations on all global challenges in an inclusive manner offering the only practical way to ensure meaningful and effective international cooperation."
"The resolution of our problems of climate change, economic and financial crisis, peace and security and human rights and democracy, depends on human ingenuity. The United Nations must, therefore, first and most importantly work to create an environment where ingenuity can indeed flourish; that is a peaceful world where all feel they belong and are treated with dignity."
Zimbabwe
H.E. Comrade R.G. Mugabe
25 September 2009
Nuclear Disarmament: “We warmly welcome the renewed enthusiasm by Russia and the United States to pursue actions to achieve a world free of nuclear arms and we urge other nuclear weapons states to do the same.”
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-proliferation, Nuclear Energy: “In this regard, Zimbabwe is honoured to have chaired, in May this year, the Third Preparatory Committee for the 2010 Nuclear Proliferation Treaty Review Conference and takes this opportunity to thank all members for their support. We are hopeful that, having secured agreement on the Conference agenda, members will produce a renewed commitment to the three pillars of the Nuclear Proliferation Treaty; namely, nuclear disarmament, nonproliferation and peaceful use of nuclear energy.”
Multilateralism, Peace: “Let me conclude by reiterating the need for effective and comprehensive multilateralism to promote the global partnership for peace and development. The United Nations and other international organisations which carry the legitimacy of multilateralism should play a leading role in directing the course of events and developments, taking into account the interests of the majority of its members in an inclusive, peaceful, just, universal and democratic manner.”
“Over the years, my delegation has underlined the need for the United Nations and other international bodies to truly serve the collective interest of all Member States. Our unchanging conviction is that all international institutions should abide by the universal principles which underlie multilateral processes of decision-making, particularly, the principle of equality among States and the right to development. It is in this context that we welcome the appropriate, indeed, timely, theme of this Session: "Effective global responses to global crises, strengthening multilateralism and dialogue among civilizations." It is our hope that we will have a candid and holistic debate on the global responses to the crises that currently affect our world.”
Peace: “In the Global Political Agreement, we have defined our priorities as the maintenance of conditions of peace and stability, economic recovery, development, promotion of human rights and improvement of the condition of women and children.”
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