UNGA Disarmament Index 2010
This is an index of all references made to issues of disarmament, peace, and security, made in the 65th General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly from 23–30 September 2010. 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 2010
DPRK's nuclear programme: “We will seek to reduce tensions on the Korean Peninsula and encourage the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to return to the Six-Party Talks.”
Iran's nuclear programme: “On Iran, we continue to urge the government to engage constructively with the international community and comply fully with Security Council resolutions.”
Multilateralism: “At the UN, we find the proper path in community … global common cause … mutual responsibility for a destiny we share.”
“This is a season for pulling together … for consolidating progress … for putting our shoulder to the wheel and delivering results. Real results … for people most in need … as only the UN can do.”
Nuclear disarmament: “Together, over the past three years, we embraced an ambitious agenda … framed by three over-arching ideas for our time. A more prosperous world, free of the deepest poverty. A cleaner, greener, more sustainable world for our children. A safer world, free of nuclear weapons. These are the great challenges of our era. They are not dreams. They are opportunities, within our power to grasp.”
Nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, NPT, CTBT, START, fissile materials, CD: “On nuclear disarmament, as well, we see new momentum: A new START agreement … the Summit on Nuclear Security … a successful NPT review conference. Our role is to keep pushing … to find a path to bring the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty into force … to realize agreements on fissile materials and securing nuclear materials and facilities. Tomorrow, we are hosting a high level meeting to rejuvenate the Conference on Disarmament. I believe the next few years will be critical. Will we advance our work on non-proliferation and disarmament … or will we slide back? It is up to us.”
President of the 65th Session of the General Assembly: Opening Remarks
H.E. Mr. Joseph Deiss of Switzerland
23 September 2010
Multilateralism: “In order to succeed, we need a genuine global partnership borne out of inclusive global governance, where all stakeholders can make themselves heard. But this global partnership is needed in many other areas too. Our world is more interdependent, more interconnected than before, and it faces global challenges, which affect all countries and their citizens, whether they like it or not, and regardless of who is responsible.”
“In order for the United Nations to comprehensively fulfil its global governance role, we must press for it to be strong, inclusive and open. A close connection must be established between States and the private sector, civil society and regional actors. We must listen to other key actors and interact with them outside this Assembly.”
President of the 65th Session of the General Assembly: Closing Remarks
H.E. Mr. Joseph Deiss of Switzerland
29 September 2010
Disarmament, development, peace: “The importance of disarmament in the promotion of peace and development was highlighted.”
African Union
H.E. Mr. Bingu Wa Mutharika, President of Malawi
23 September 2010
Security: “On peace and security, I wish to underscore that the African Union considers that without peace and security, democracy, good governance and development cannot be sustainable.”
Nuclear energy: “On the development of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, the African Union supports the position taken by the Non-Aligned Movement calling for justice and equal treatment for all concerned nations.”
Afghanistan
H.E. Mr. Zalmai Rassoul, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2010
No relevant references.
Albania
H.E. Mr. Bamir Topi, President
23 September 2010
Non-proliferation, weapons of mass destruction: “The challenging agenda of the UN must be focused in the strengthening of peace and security, fight against terrorism, in issues of stable development, climate change, reduction of poverty, non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, coping with the natural disasters, human rights, migration, etc.”
Peace: “Peoples have a desire to live in peace and the governments have an obligation to guarantee it.”
Algeria
H.E. Mr. Mourad Medelci, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “Countries that do not have nuclear weapons, like Algeria, have the right to ask nuclear countries to truly embrace nuclear disarmament.”
Nuclear weapon free zone: “The results of the NPT review conference are a positive step in this direction, thanks notably to the launching of a process that should give rise to a nuclear free zone in the Middle East.”
Disarmament machinery: “In order to rise to the multiple challenges for international peace and security, the disarmament conference should make the most of favorable international context and positive impetus generated by the positive results of the 8th NPT conference in 2010 to relaunch its works and comply with its mandate. It is with this aim that Algeria continues committed to the effect of the work of the disarmament conference. Algeria believes that the contents of the program of the disarmament conference in 2009 are still valid today and could be the basis for the work in upcoming sessions.”
Andorra
H.E. Mr. Jaume Bartumeu Cassany, Head of Government
27 September 2010
Militarism, disarmament, cluster munitions: “One of the characteristics of my country is that it has no army. For over 700 years, Andorra has lived in peace and without any armed conflict. Now, with the intention of demonstrating our commitment to international disarmament, we plan to ratify the Convention on Cluster Munitions.”
Antigua and Barbuda
H.E. Mr. Winston Baldwin Spencer, Prime Minister
27 Setepmber 2010
Multilateralism: “In my own view, arising from the many successes of the United Nations in a wide wage of areas, one of the most enduring lessons the past 65 years has taught us as a global community the wisdom and supremacy of multilateralism.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “I therefore call on this session of the assembly to develop the modalities that will enable our United Nations to be able to ... create a safer world free of nuclear weapons.”
Argentina
H.E. Ms. Cristina Fernández, President
24 September 2010
Nuclear weapons: “The world situation present at the time of the signing of the United Nations Charter in San Francisco is different from the one have we today. The Security Council … was a Security Council where those who were seated could, with the press of a button, cause a nuclear holocaust. The Security Council found a balance in a bipolar world and was able to prevent a nuclear holocaust. But this world no longer exists.”
Armenia
H.E. Mr. Edward Nalbandian, Minister for Foreign Affairs
25 September 2010
No relevant references.
Australia
H.E. Mr. Kevin Rudd, Minister for Foreign Affairs
25 September 2010
Disarmament machinery: “On disarmament, the Conference on Disarmament has been in a state of inertia for 12 years, despite the recommendations of the recent Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference that now require urgent work. Mr. President, the United Nations has most of the essential structures in place. But for the structures to work, we must harness the political will necessary to make them work. In other words we must enable the institutions we have created to do the job for which they were created. Put even more starkly, we must do that which we say. If we have a Conference on Disarmament, it should do disarmament – not pretend.”
Iran’s nuclear programme, DPRK nuclear programme: “We must equally be concerned about the continued challenge of nuclear proliferation. Violations of the non-proliferation regime by states such as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and Iran represent a potent and potential threat to us all. The international community cannot stand idly by. It is for this reason that Australia provides robust support for the UN sanctions regime against both the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and Iran. These sanctions must continue, and if necessary be further enhanced, in the absence of policy change in Iran and the DPRK.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation: “The UN has played a critical role in promoting the goal of a world without nuclear weapons. Non-proliferation and nuclear disarmament are mutually reinforcing processes and cannot be separated. Australia’s activism on arms control and disarmament remains undiminished. And there remains much urgent work to be done.”
CTBT: “In 1996, Australia tabled the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty in this Assembly to ensure its adoption. Since then 182 states have signed and 153 states have ratified the treaty. Nine more states are needed to ratify the treaty in order for it to enter into force. Australia welcomes recent statements by Indonesia and the United States of their intention to ratify the treaty. Australia would urge all remaining states which to date have failed to indicate their intention to ratify the treaty to enable it to enter into force.”
Non-proliferation: “The NPT Review Conference was held earlier this year. Australia and Japan had worked closely together in the lead-up to the Conference including through the jointly sponsored report prepared by former Foreign Minister of Australia, Gareth Evans, and his Japanese counterpart, Yoriko Kawaguchi. This significant report provided substantial momentum in the lead up to the Review Conference. We believe that the Evans/Kawaguchi report also represents the most comprehensive, practical, and contemporary blueprint for the international community to both consider and adopt a comprehensive arms control and non-proliferation agenda.
“The Review Conference agreed by consensus on 64 sets of actions. And Australia and Japan took the initiative this week in New York to jointly host a cross regional meeting of Foreign Ministers with the aim of working towards the implementation of these 64 actions.”
Fissile materials, disarmament machinery: “The potential catastrophe of nuclear conflict means that the status quo is not an option. We must move ahead with the negotiation of a Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty. And we must ensure the UN disarmament machinery is doing its job.”
Small arms and arms trade, arms trade treaty: “Of course, for many people around the world, the threat of small arms is more immediate than the threat posed by nuclear weapons. The former Secretary-General, Mr Kofi Annan, famously referred to small arms in Africa as weapons of mass destruction in slow motion. But they are of equal concern to our friends in the Pacific, the Caribbean and elsewhere. It is only proper that Australia is playing a leading role in the development of a proposed Arms Trade Treaty. Including by co-hosting a further meeting in Boston next week.”
Austria
H.E. Mr. Michael Spindelegger, Federal Minister for European and International Affairs
25 September 2010
Multilateralism: “Adherence to the rule of law is fundamental. All multilateral efforts and activities need to operate on the basis of clear and predictable rules which equally apply to all member states.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “This past year saw the first positive developments towards nuclear disarmament in a decade. Security Council Resolution 1887 adopted just a year ago provided a powerful impetus. Although many issues are still unresolved and require our close attention, the Review Conference in May produced an outcome that restored confidence in the NPT.
“For the first time, a comprehensive Action Plan dealing with all three NPT-pillars was agreed; - and let me stress here that Austria is honoured to have contributed to that success. For the first time, a ‘world without nuclear weapons’ was accepted as the goal of all parties, who pledged to ultimately eliminate all types of nuclear weapons.
“For the first time, the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of the use of such weapons were recognized—an important step towards the eventual legal ban of nuclear weapons by means of a nuclear weapons convention or framework of legal instruments.
“Although the results of the Conference are positive much remains to be done: The Action Plan needs to be implemented. The Nuclear Weapon States—who promised to engage among themselves on a number of vital issues and report by 2014—must lead by example.”
Disarmament machinery: “The international disarmament structures must be reformed. I am grateful for Secretary-General Ban’s initiative in this respect.”
Disarmament, cluster munitions: “Finally, we must learn from successful disarmament initiatives. Let me underline that Austria is delighted that the Convention on Cluster Munitions entered into force last month. This Convention is a positive example of how committed Governments, International Organizations and civil society can work together to achieve real progress.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation: “In order to promote interaction in this respect also in the nuclear field, Austria supports the establishment of a Competence Center for Nuclear Disarmament and Non-Proliferation in Vienna early next year. Conceived as a platform for open discussion and independent expertise, monitoring and advocacy, this Center shall facilitate understanding and cooperation among all entities involved. I hope it will contribute to further progress in nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.”
Azerbaijan
H.E. Mr. Ilham Heydar oglu Aliyev, President
23 September 2010
No relevant references.
Bahamas
H.E. Mr. Theodore Brent Symonette, Deputy Prime Minister
28 September 2010
Small arms and light weapons, arms trade treaty, conventional weapons: “The international traffic in illicit drugs and the related illicit trade in small arms and light weapons have for many years disrupted the lives of the peace-loving citizens of the Caribbean. Hence, we look with anticipation of the 2012 Conference whose objective is the conclusion of an Arms Trade Treaty. We fully endorse this regard calls from fellow Caricom States for the Treaty to be comprehensive in scope with provisions for all categories of weapons.”
Small arms and light weapons, disarmament: “My government also reaffirms its commitment to the Program of Action to Prevent, Combat, and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All its aspects. I record the appreciation of my government for the technical assistance recently received from the United Nations Regional Center for Peace and Disarmament in Latin America and the Caribbean (UN-LiREC) in the area of firearms destruction and stockpile arrangement. We look forward to further assistance in the future.”
Bahrain
H.E. Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2010
Iran’s nuclear programme: “As regards the Islamic Republic of Iran, we are keenly interested in its stability and the prosperity of its people. We look forward to the vital role it can play to eliminate the ghost of discord around its nuclear programme. We welcome its commitment to the peaceful nature of the programme and stress the need for transparency and full compliance with the requirements of the IAEA and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.”
Bangladesh
H.E. Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister
25 September 2010
Nuclear energy: “Other plans include ... adopting nuclear power and renewable energy.”
Belgium
H.E. Mr. Steven Vanackere, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs
23 September 2010
DPRK nuclear programme, Iran’s nuclear programme, non-proliferation: “The Review Conference on the Non-Proliferation Treaty has come to a substantial and balanced result. Respect for Non-Proliferation Treaty provisions and cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency is accountability in practice. Unfortunately, the non-acceptance or non-respect for these provisions by countries like North Korea and Iran threatens the international non-proliferation regime.”
Cluster munitions: “Belgium particularly welcomes the entry into force earlier this year of the convention on Cluster Munitions…….I am pleased to announce that Belgium has recently destroyed its entire stock of cluster munitions.”
Security: “Human Rights, Security and Development are at the core of the mandate of the United Nations. Former Secretary General Kofi Annan already pointed at the fact that the three are inextricably linked when he said ‘there is no development without security, no security without development, and both depend on the respect for human rights and the Rule of Law.’”
Belize
H.E. Mr. Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs
29 September 2010
No relevant references.
Benin
H.E. Mr. Jean-Marie Ehouzou, Special Envoy of the President
23 September 2010
Small arms and light weapons: “We must put an end to the illicit trade of small arms and light weapon that leads to their proliferation and that is a cause of robbery and ongoing insecurity in our cities and countryside.”
Bhutan
H.E. Mr. Daw Penjo, Foreign Secretary
29 September 2010
No relevant references.
Bolivia (Plurinational State of)
H.E. Mr. Evo Morales Ayma, Constitutional President
23 September 2010
Multilateralism: “Despite our difference as nations and as peoples we have the responsibility to work together to solve today’s global challenges.”
Nuclear disarmament: “Let us eliminate all nuclear arsenals, as these are a threat to human life. Let us begin with the United States and all other states.”
Militarism, military spending: “Rather than spend so much money on so-called defense and security, which is really just war and more war, we must change the mentality of all people in order to fulfill our responsibility to humanity.”
Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Mr. Haris Silajdžic, President
25 September 2010
No relevant references.
Botswana
H.E. Lieutenant-General Mompati Merafhe, Vice-President
27 September 2010
Multilateralism: “Working together for a common purpose, for the common good is actually the sacredness of this, our grand institution.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, peace, security, disarmament machinery: “On a related subject, we fully concur that disarmament and non-proliferation are essential for the promotion of international peace and security. To this end, my delegation welcomes progress made in some areas, but remains deeply concerned that the Conference on Disarmament continues to be deadlocked.”
Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation, disarmament: “I wish to seize this opportunity to re-affirm Botswana's commitment to the objectives of the Non- Proliferation Treaty, which we continue to demonstrate through effective implementation of its provisions as well as compliance with the decisions of the successive Review Conferences. Consequently, Botswana associates itself with the outcome of the 2010 Review Conference of the State Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.”
Nuclear energy: “We fully support developing countries’ call for the peaceful use of nuclear technology in areas such as agriculture, the environment, water management and medicine. However, those countries which intend to embark upon such use of nuclear technology should do so in a transparent fashion and in full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). We therefore call for increased financial support for the International Atomic Energy Agency Technical Cooperation Programme as well as in capacity building in order to share technology utilization in the relevant areas.”
Brazil
H.E. Mr. Celso Luiz Nunes Amorim, Minister for External Relations
23 September 2010
Nuclear disarmament: “In order to achieve a secure world, the promise of total elimination of nuclear weapons must be fulfilled. Unilateral reductions are welcome but insufficient, especially when they occur in tandem with the modernization of nuclear arsenals.”
“We must face the challenges of nuclear disarmament, sustainable development and freer and fairer trade.”
Security: “The changes that have occurred in the world over the last few decades and the series of crises we have faced in the areas of food security, climate change, the economic and financial domain and peace and security make it urgent to redefine the rules that organize international relations.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Brazil has sought to live up to what is expected from all Security Council members, including non-permanent ones i.e,: that they contribute to peace. For this reason, we made a serious effort to find an instrument that could represent progress towards a solution of the Iranian nuclear question. In so doing we relied on proposals that had been presented as a “unique opportunity” to build confidence between the parties. The Tehran declaration of May 17th signed by Brazil, Turkey and Iran removed obstacles that, according to the very authors to those proposals, had previously prevented an agreement. The Tehran declaration does not exhaust the issue. It was never meant to do so. We are convinced that, once back at the negotiations table, the parties will find ways to resolve other issues, such as enrichment to 20% and the stock of enriched uranium accumulated since October 2009. In spite of the sanctions, we still hope that the logic of dialogue and understanding will prevail. ”
“The world cannot run the risk of a new conflict like the one in Iraq. We have been insisting, therefore, that the Iranian Government maintain an attitude of flexibility and openness towards negotiations. But it is necessary that all those concerned demonstrate such willingness.”
Brunei Darussalam
His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade
27 September 2010
No relevant references.
Bulgaria
H.E. Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation: “We must reconfirm our commitment to halting the spread of nuclear weapons. This mission is above politics and diplomacy, above national ambitions and personal egos. It is our universal obligation and a joint commitment which we undertook 40 years ago.”
Weapons of mass destruction, WMD terrorism: “The uncovering of clandestine nuclear networks has brought the spectre of non-state actors equipped with weapons of mass destruction closer.”
Non-proliferation: “All nations must recognize that the nuclear non-proliferation regime is undermined if violators are allowed to act with impunity.”
“Bulgaria believes that every nation must put a strengthened Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) at the centre of its national diplomacy.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Justified concerns about the nuclear programme of the Islamic Republic of Iran remain. We call on Iran to deploy the necessary confidence building measures to provide for a greater transparency of its nuclear activities.”
DPRK nuclear programme: “We consider all States Parties, including the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), to be bound by their NPT obligations.”
Burundi
H.E. Mr. Gervais Rufyikiri, Second Vice-President
25 September 2010
No relevant references.
Cambodia
H.E. Mr. Hor Namhong, Deputy Prime Minister
28 September 2010
Multilateralism: “There is no better entity than the United Nations to address the global challenges; and multilateralism is relevant in addressing the world’s inter-connected and proliferated challenges, ranging from global economic and financial crisis, climate change, food security, international peace and security, to regional conflicts and so forth.”
DPRK nuclear programme: “The situation in the Korean Peninsula still presents a threat to peace and security in this part of the world. Cambodia earnestly calls the parties to refrain from any act that could escalate tension in the region in order to contribute to a favorable condition for the Six-Party Talks to resume as soon as possible. Peace shall prevail above all through negotiations in order to regain confidence to build a peaceful Korean Peninsular.”
Cameroon
H.E. Mr. Paul Biya, President
23 September 2010
Peace, security: “The ever widening gap between the rich and the poor would only exacerbate tensions and jeopardize international peace and security.”
Canada
H.E. Mr. Stephen Harper, Prime Minister
23 September 2010
No relevant remarks.
Central African Republic
H.E. General Antoine Gambi, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and of the Francophonie
27 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation, nuclear energy: “In the are of nuclear disarmament, the crises of proliferation that we are going through are at present the greatest threat to international peace and security. Nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation in all of it’s aspects, must be at the heart of our debates and we must be resolved to favor the use of nuclear energy for civilian ad peaceful purposes.”
Chile
H.E. Mr. Sebastián Piñera Echenique
23 September 2010
No relevant references.
China
H.E. Mr. Wen Jiabao, Premier of the State Council
23 September 2010
Multilateralism: “China will continue to firmly support the leading role of the United Nations in international affairs. We will, as always, abide by the UN Charter and fulfill in good faith our obligations under international conventions. We will intensify cooperation with fellow developing countries, and support their greater say in international affairs. We will remain forever a good partner and brother of developing countries.”
Peace: “The world of the 21st century is far from tranquil, but gone are the days when problems were ultimately settled by war. Peace and development remain the defining features of our time.”
Colombia
H.E. Mr. Juan Manuel Santos Calderón, President
24 September 2010
Small arms and light weapons, landmines: “Matters, such as security; countering terrorism and drug trafficking; the fight against the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons; the progressive eradication of anti-personnel mines; humanitarian assistance; the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of illegal armed groups; and -something particularly important- how to do it all while always protecting human rights.”
Comoros
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Abdallah Sambi, President
24 September 2010
Peace, security: “It is through peace, stability, and security and respect for international law that our nations will be able to obtain the development goals they have set themselves to help our peoples.”
Congo
H.E. Mr. Basile Ikouebe, Minister for Foreign Affairs
24 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation: “Now there are more challenges…the threat of nuclear non-proliferation and the economic crises.”
Small arms and light weapons: “The states in the sub-region should seal their commitment to combat the proliferation of small arms and light weapons by signing the convention.”
Costa Rica
H.E. Ms. Laura Chinchilla Miranda, President
23 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, military spending: “And it offends us that, even nowadays, there are women waiting to be stoned, populations drowned in the barbarism of genocide, and nuclear weapons that arebeing accumulated while the barns are being depleted.”
Arms control, arms trade treaty, nuclear weapons convention, Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty: “In matters of peace and security, Costa Rica adheres to the five points on arms control that are being promoted by the General Secretary. In particular, we insist on the necessity to start the negotiations for an Arms Transference Treaty, while at the same time we advance towards the Model Convention for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, and we complete the ratification process for the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty.”
Weapons of mass destruction, military spending, disarmament and development: “The accumulation and transference of weapons, in special nuclear, chemical and bacteriological ones, not only constitutes a threat to peace and survival. It is also an aggression to development. Each soldier who enrolls, each missile that is activated and each isotope enriched with military purposes, imply less schools and hospitals, less food programs, less roads, less wireless networks, less seeds for the farmers or less good judges to administer justice.”
Peace: “But peace must go beyond action; it should also lodge in the mind and imagination of human beings. To educate for peace is to vaccinate against war. Thirty years ago, our country promoted, and the United Nations supported, apioneer and visionary institution in the matter: the University for Peace. Its contribution reaches all bounds of the world, and our compromise with it increases every day. For this reason we proudly celebrate its anniversary.”
Security, military spending: “It is paradoxical that, while many countries waste resources in weapons, the international community has not been capable of confronting in an effective manner the lashes of drug traffic, organized crime, terrorism, traffic of weapons, and the aberrant exploitation and trafficking of human beings.”
Security: “My government has made of citizens’ security one of its major goals; our people demand it and we are not going to fail them. We are fighting crime it with energy and determination; also, with full respect for human rights, intelligent policies and the rule of law.”
Military spending: “If Costa Rica, acountry of middle income, has achieved indexes of human development comparable to countries of high income, it is because, among other things, our social investment has replaced military expenses.”
Peace: “We must also establish peace with the environment and development. It is an unavoidable task to organize the economy in a sustainable manner, in order to produce material and social welfare.”
Côte d'Ivoire
H.E. Mr. Jean-Marie Kacou Gervais, Minister for Foreign Affairs and African Integration
29 September 2010
Multilateralism: “Mr. President … by proposing that the theme for this session be to reassert the central role of the United Nations in global governance you are celebrating in the best way the primacy of multilateralism over unilateralism in the management of global affairs.”
Croatia
H.E. Ms. Jadranka Kosor, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
Weapons of mass destruction: “All the serious threats with which the modem world is faced, starting with terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, humanitarian crises and climate change, to mention just a few, in terms of their consequences go far beyond the original framework within which they began, and without exception are acquiring global proportions.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation: “However much our joint action at a global level is important to find responses to the many challenges, when it is a question of an attempt to find a deterrent to the use of nuclear weapons, this becomes imperative. Over the past years we have witnessed a renewed desire in the international community for a world without nuclear weapons. The Republic of Croatia also sees in that light the historical summit of the Security Council on the prevention of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, with President Barack Obama presiding in September last year.”
Non-proliferation, WMD terrorism: “Making its contribution to the significant efforts aimed at preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons, in June this year the Republic of Croatia successfully organized a regional workshop on the implementation of UN Resolution 1540. Of course, in Croatia we are aware that mere words and adopted documents are not sufficient, especially to prevent the direct threat posed by the possibility of terrorists getting hold of weapons of mass destruction. We welcome therefore the concrete steps being taken by the nuclear states to reduce nuclear capacities and to increase the transparency and security of nuclear reserves. At the same time we call on all states to respect their commitments aimed at preventing attempts to allow these terrifying weapons to pass into the wrong hands.”
Small arms and light weapons: “At the same time, we must not forget that in parallel with the existence of a nuclear threat, the illegal trade in small arms and light weapons has taken human lives with merciless speed.”
Peace, security: “The protection of the dignity of human life, and the dignity and identity of each nation, is the firm foundation on which the United Nations can fulfill its task to promote peace and security in today’s globalized world.”
Cuba
H.E. Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2010
Nuclear weapons: “Today, the children and grandchildren of that generation realize that the human species is faced with the risk of disappearing. In a few decades, the degradation of the living conditions in the planet will be irreversible. The same could happen in a few hours if only a small piece of the nuclear arsenal were to be used.”
“Those who met in San Francisco to draft the United Nations Charter could not even imagine the threat now posed by global warming or the nuclear winter.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “The serious danger posed by nuclear weapons will only disappear if they are totally eliminated and if there is a complete ban on their use.”
Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation, nuclear energy, disarmament: “The manipulation surrounding non-proliferation based on double standards and political interests, the existence of a club of the privileged and the countries of the South denial of the right to a peaceful use of nuclear energy should cease. We urge the United States, the main nuclear power, to stop opposing the negotiation of legally binding agreements that could rid ourselves, once and for all, of such threat within a predetermined period of time.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “While we deliberate here, as comrade Fidel has pointed out, powerful and influential forces in the United States and Israel are paving the way to launch a military attack against the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Security Council, on its part, possibly under the illusion of preventing it, moves on to adopt sanctions against that country which,
together with the unilateral sanctions illegally imposed by a group of States, are seeking to suffocate the Iranian economy.”
“The recent and politically biased report issued by the Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency has increased tensions and created the pretexts for a war escalation. Should this aggression in fact materializes it would become a crime against the Iranian people and an assault against peace and International Law which will burst into a conflict that will certainly be nuclear. It would take a toll on millions of lives and its impact on the environment, the economy and world stability would be incalculable.”
Security, peace: “Sanctions, sieges and confrontation are not the way to preserve international peace and security. Quite on the contrary, dialogue, negotiations and adherence to the principle of sovereign equality of States are the only way to prevent a war.”
Conventional weapons, disarmament, nuclear weapon free zones: “Given the high lethal power and the continued development of conventional weapons, we will have to struggle also for complete and general disarmament. In order to move forward in these endeavors, the Non-Aligned Movement submitted a proposal that has gone unheeded. This proposal contains a program of action that includes the creation of nuclear free zones. It is urgent to establish such zones in the Middle East, where Israel is the only country that opposes such initiative. Achieving that will truly contribute to dissipate the threats of a conflict and nuclear proliferation and achieve a lasting peace in that region.”
Cyprus
H.E. Mr. Demetris Christofias, President
24 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation, multilateralism: “...the visible threat of nuclear proliferation, especially in the Middle East ... require[s] effective regional and global action through the United Nations and other multilateral organizations.”
Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation, nuclear terrorism: “The challenges faced by the international community, are increasing.... the threat of further nuclear proliferation and nuclear terrorism ... require that we undertake a renewed and more effective effort to protect humanity’s achievements.”
Czech Republic
H.E. Mr. Václav Klaus, President
25 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation, START: “We should not resign on elementary values and principles most of us share and this brings me to the second issue I want to mention here today- nuclear non-proliferation. In April this year, my country was hosting an important event during which the President of Russia and the President of the United States signed a treaty on further reduction and limitation of strategic offensive arms. We see this treaty as an important step forward and as a visible sign in the efforts to make our complicated world safer. Let's hope that it will have a further continuation in the foreseeable future.”
Nuclear energy: “We do not dispute the right of any country to use atomic energy for peaceful purposes but it must do so in a responsible way. It is not possible for some countries to ignore the agreed and respected international standards, to threaten stability in their regions and increase the risks of proliferation.”
Democratic People's Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. Pak Kil Yon, Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2010
Miltiarism: “Power logic and power politics that negate sovereign equality still remain in sight in international relations even today after the turn of a century.... Military invasions on sovereign states, arms buildup and threats of use of force continue unchecked and even justified under a series of pretexts.”
Nuclear weapons: “Along as the US nuclear aircraft carriers sail around the seas of our country, our nuclear deterrent can never be abandoned, but should be strengthened further.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation: “There is no change in the position of the DPRK to oppose nuclear war, nuclear arms race and nuclear proliferation. The denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula is the policy goal maintained consistently by the government of the DPRK for peace and security in Northeast Asia and the denuclearization of the world.”
Nuclear weapon free zone: “The denuclearization of the Korean peninsula referred to in the Joint Statement of the six party talks issued on September 19, 2005 is the process of turning the whole Korean peninsula into a nuclear-weapon-free zone on the basis of completely eliminating the real external nuclear threats on the Korean peninsula in a verifiable manner.”
DPRK nuclear programme: “As already clarified, our nuclear weapons are not a means to attack or threaten others, but a self-defensive deterrent, to all intents and purposes, to counter aggression and attack from outside. As a responsible nuclear weapon state, we are willing to join in the international efforts for nuclear non-proliferation and safe management of nuclear material on an equal footing with other nuclear weapon states.”
Democratic Republic of the Congo
H.E. Mr. Joseph Kabila Kabange, President
23 September 2010
No relevant references.
Denmark
H.E. Mr. Carsten Staur, Chairman of the Delegation
28 September 2010
Weapons of mass destruction: “The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is the most serious danger of globalisation.”
Nuclear weapons, START, non-proliferation, disarmament: “We welcome the international momentum in dealing with issue of nuclear weapons as reflected in the new US-Russian START-agreement, the Nuclear Summit and notably, the results of the Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference in May. It is important that all state parties commit to implementing the measures of the NPT action plan.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “The issue of non-proliferation remains high on the agenda. Not least due to our deepening concerns about the alleged peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme. With the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1929, the international community has sent a clear signal to the Iranian leadership that we do not tolerate the continuous and increasingly grave violations of Iran’s international obligations.”
Dominica
H.E. Mr. Nicholas Joseph Orville Liverpool, President
25 September 2010
Disarmament, non-proliferation, nuclear weapons: “In May this year the United Nations held the Review Conference of Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Dominica supports the outcome of the Conference and calls upon all Member States to adhere to the obligations of the Treaty. We call for a world free of nuclear weapons and join the calls for total disarmament.”
Small arms and light weapons: “Small arms and light weapons continue to pose a major threat to peace and security throughout the world. Dominica is very concerned over the increase in that illicit trade in the Caribbean region.... The continued demand in the North for drugs produced in South, and the growth of the related trade in small arms and light weapons, have placed us in crossfire of these illicit activities.”
Dominican Republic
H.E. Mr. Leonel Fernández Reyna, President
23 September 2010
Small arms and light weapons: “It is imperative to curb indiscriminate gun sales and human trafficking and its necessary to implement exchange and cooperation policies among the countries that produce, serve as transit points for, and consume narcotics.”
Ecuador
H.E. Mr. Lenín Moreno Garcés, Vice-President
27 September 2010
Nuclear energy: “We believe in the sovereign right of all states to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.”
Nuclear weapons, WMD, disarmament: “We want a world without nuclear weapons and advocate leading by example. States demanding action in this area must also take action themselves. I call upon the international community to make a final decision: dismantle nuclear arsenals. Just as we have criminalized the production and commercialization of illicit drugs, we should criminalize the production and commercialization of weapons of mass destruction.”
Egypt
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Abdoul Gheit, Minister for Foreign Affairs
25 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, nuclear weapon free zone, disarmament, non-proliferation: “Questions of international peace and security, disarmament, and combating nuclear proliferation are among the priorities of Egypt’s agenda. Only a few months ago, the Review Conference of the Non-Proliferation Treaty had successfully concluded its work. It adopted an important document on the Middle East, which included a plan of action and measures to implement the resolution on the Middle East that was adopted in 1995. Egypt will follow closely all steps taken to implement this plan, including the serious preparations for the conference of 2012.
“Once again, let me reiterate Egypt’s position. Adopting double-standards on the question of non-proliferation will result in a continued threat to world stability. In the Middle East particularly, we find that there are increasing efforts to add to the commitments of non-nuclear states members of the NPT, without paying heed to the priority for the Treaty to become universal in our region and for all nuclear installations in the Middle East to be subjected to the system of comprehensive safeguards of the IAEA. This uncomfortable situation is a source of concern for us. We will work with all like-minded parties to deal with this situation and to change it in relevant fora.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Egypt recognizes the need to reach an urgent political settlement in the Iran nuclear file, especially that the dangerous escalation of this issue threatens an explosion of the situation in a manner that threatens peace and stability in this vital region of the world. While it is true that threats against a member state of the OICR are not acceptable, we ask Iran to refrain from any measures that could exacerbate the situation in the region and that would lead to a confrontation with different forces in the international community. All parties must adhere to the negotiations as a way to the peaceful political settlement of this issue. Such a settlement would guarantee Iran’s legitimate requirement of the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and would enable the international community meanwhile to verify that Iran is not violating its obligations of the NPT. No evidence has yet been available to that effect.”
El Salvador
H.E. Mr. Carlos Mauricio Funes Cartagena, President
24 September 2010
No relevant references.
Equatorial Guinea
H.E. Mr. Pastor Micha Ondo Bile, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010
Multilateralism, nuclear weapons, disarmament: “We all need to concentrate our efforts, energy and resources towards promoting and maintaining peace and security in the entire world, therefore encouraging a healthier environment, actively working and cooperating for the disappearance of nuclear weapons and the fight against terrorism and international organized crime.”
Eritrea
H.E. Mr. Osman Mohammed Saleh, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010
No relevant references.
Estonia
H.E. Mr. Toomas Hendrik Ilves, President
24 September 2010
Peace, security: “The credibility of the UN in the promotion of peace and security rests on the commitment of all Member States. We equally share the responsibility to apply the principles enshrined in the Charter, including refraining from any other threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.”
Ethiopia
H.E. Mr. Seyoum Mesfin, Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2010
No relevant references.
Fiji
H.E. Commodore Josaia Bainimarama, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
Arms Trade Treaty, small arms and light weapons: “On the subject of peace and security, Fiji is proud to have been among the Member States in 2006 that voted in favor of preparations for a robust and legally-binding Arms Trade Treaty in 2012. We also remain committed to the work of the United Nations in curbing illicit trade in small arms and light weapons.”
Cluster munitions, disarmament: “Fiji has also ratified the Convention on Cluster Munitions and regards this instrument as a welcome development in humanitarianism and international disarmament.”
Finland
H.E. Ms. Tarja Halonen, President
24 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation, START: “Finland is greatly encouraged by the new START agreement as well as the outcomes of the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington and the Review Conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. The world community must seize the moment. Global and bilateral efforts must be continued towards a world without nuclear weapons.”
France
H.E. Mr. Bernard Kouchner, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs
27 September 2010
No relevant references.
Gabon
H.E. Mr. Ali Bongo Ondimba, President
24 September 2010
No relevant references.
Gambia
H.E. Mr. Mamadou Tangara, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2010
Militarism: “We condemn indiscriminate use of banned weapons with impunity whilst the UN Security Council does nothing to punish the culprits: Combatants should legitimately engage enemy combatants, and reckless attacks on defenseless people must not be condoned.”
Georgia
H.E. Mr. Mikheil Saakashvili, President
23 September 2010
Multilateralism: “In uncertain times like ours, cooperation is more necessary than ever. Unless we stand together and invent new approaches to the global challenges we are all facing, we will be torn apart by fear and self-destructive interests. Gatherings like this one, therefore, are valuable only if they allow us to shape a common vision for concrete actions towards peace, development solidarity, and justice.”
Peace: “One of our common goals, then, must be to enable those risk-takers who have the courage to defy conventional wisdom and forge new paths to peace. Peace is not an easy way. But peace is the only way.”
“Ladies and gentlemen, history has taught us that wars can erupt quickly - but also that brave leaders can secure peace where and when nobody would ever believe that conflicts could be resolved. History has taught us that regions that were torn apart by armed conflicts and contaminated by hate - starting with Europe - can achieve lasting peace through cooperation, interdependence and unity.”
Non-proliferation, nuclear terrorism: “We are fighting other common scourges, too, focusing especially on the terrible danger of nuclear trafficking. Many times over the past seven years, we have intercepted criminals who had in their possession the essential ingredients for nuclear devices. Every step of the way, we have cooperated with our allies in the international community to ensure that Georgia is doing everything possible to confront this global danger.”
Germany
H.E Mr. Guido Westerwelle, Vice-Chancellor
25 September 2010
Disarmament, non-proliferation, nuclear weapons, WMD: “Disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation are not issues of the past, but challenges of our time. Disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation are two sides of the same coin. We have to do all we possible can to ensure that weapons of mass destruction do not become the bane of globalization.
“Unlike the Conference five years ago, this May’s Review Conference of the Non-Proliferation Treaty was a success. If we work together to maintain this momentum, it will be in our power to ensure that this decade does not see a build up of arms but becomes a decade of disarmament.
“A world without nuclear weapons is a long-term vision, but even a marathon begins with the first step.
“There is now movement in the disarmament debate. The group of states founded here in New York on Wednesday to advance disarmament and arms control does not stand alone.”
Disarmament machinery: “For over ten years the Geneva Conference on Disarmament wasn’t even able to agree on an agenda. This is not the way to live up to our shared responsibility. We met yesterday at the invitation of the UN Secretary-General to break the deadlock affecting the Geneva Conference.”
CTBT, fissile materials: “Our world will be a more secure place when the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test Ban Treaty enters into force and the production of fissile material is ended once and for all.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Iran, like every other country, naturally has the right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. However, the Tehran leadership itself has sown doubt about the civilian nature of its nuclear programme. Iran, by demonstrating openness and transparency, can allay that doubt. Our offer of dialogue still stands. It’s now up to Iran to grasp our outstretched hand.”
WMD free zone: “The conference aimed at establishing a zone free of weapons of mass destructions in the Middle East, planned for 2012, is a major opportunity to strengthen peace and security in the region. Germany is encouraging all countries in the region to take part so that the conference is a success. We are committed to a nuclear-weapon-free Middle East.”
Ghana
H.E. Mr. Muhammad Mumuni, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration
28 September 2010
No relevant references.
Greece
H.E. Mr. Dimitris Droutsas, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010
Multilateralism: “The common thread underpinning all of the aforementioned issues is the need to enhance the mechanisms necessary to ensure effective multilateral action to confront these common challenges coherently and comprehensibly. In this, the promotion of effective interaction and coordination between the UN and regional organizations must be one of our key priorities.”
Grenada
H.E. Mr. Tillman Thomas, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
Multilateralism: “Our resolve is firm: dedication, creativity, renewed commitment to fellow being, unwavering commitment to multilateralism and most of all solidarity. These, Mr. President, will help us survive these trying times.”
Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation: “We are obliged to work selflessly to preserve the world for future generations. The avoidance of a nuclear confrontation is one sure way. We therefore, congratulate the Government of the United States and all other Governments who have put much time and effort towards the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.”
Guatemala
H.E. Mr. Gert Rosenthal, Chairman of the Delegation
28 September 2010
Small arms and light weapons: “The trafficking of persons, arms and drugs as well as money laundering have expanded in a manner that is quite worrisome, under the double banner born from organized crime's capacity to co-opt, combined with its capacity to intimidate.”
Guinea-Bissau
H.E. Mr. Malam Bacai Sanhá, President
25 September 2010
No relevant references.
Guyana
H.E. Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, President
24 September 2010
Multilateralism: “The notion that we can protect our national and global interests through inward-looking national responses is no longer valid. Instead, it is in all our interests for the United Nations to provide the platform that facilitates globally inter-connected responses.”
“Mr. President, distinguished delegates, the United Nations Organisation is, despite its many limitations, our best hope for the advancement of humanity. Its universality allows the organization to play a central and catalytic role in balancing the different interests of member states and in generating consensus on the issues that divide us. We must therefore commit fully to the principles and purposes of its charter and to the improvement of its structure.”
Haiti
H.E. Mr. René Garcia Préval, President
24 September 2010
Military spending: “Five years before 2015, there is still a long road to travel, and this is because of the developed countries not fully living up to the financial commitments made for the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. What can I say about the trillions of dollars that have been swallowed up in bloody and unjustified wars over the last ten years? What am I to say about the annual defense budgets of developed countries, which could instead be devoted to attaining the Millennium Development Goals?”
Arms trade: “What are we to say about arms trafficking from the North to the South, which only facilitates drug trafficking. We have to provide answers to those questions and we cannot sidestep those questions much longer without rushing to our common doom.”
Honduras
H.E. Mr. Mario Canahuati, Secretary of State
24 September 2010
No relevant references.
Hungary
H.E. Mr. Pál Schmitt, President
24 September 2010
Disarmament machinery, nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation, WMD, missiles: “Let me express Hungary’s sincere gratitude to the Secretary-General for convening, on this very day, a high-level meeting on the disarmament machinery. A new dynamics in this area has also been clearly demonstrated at the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference earlier this year, and we are hopeful that the renewed international commitment to nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation will lead to success.
“We view with great concern, however, that the growing consensus around an ultimate goal of a so-called ‘Global Zero’ in nuclear weapons is offset by overt and covert attempts at weapons of mass destruction and missile proliferation by certain countries.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Hungary fully supports the statement made in New York on September 22nd by EU High Representative Ashton, on the negotiations conducted between the E3+3 powers and Iran.”
Iceland
H.E. Mr. Össur Skarphéðinsson, Minister for Foreign Affairs
24 September 2010
No relevant references.
India
H.E. Mr. S. M. Krishna, Minister of External Affairs
29 September 2010
Nuclear disarmament, WMD terrorism: “India has an abiding commitment for achieving universal, non-discriminatory nuclear disarmament within a specific time frame, a vision that was most eloquently articulated in the G.A. By Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1988. More than two decades later the painful reality is that this goal still remains a distant one. In the meantime, newer threats have emerged, including the threat of terrorists gaining access to weapons of mass destruction.”
Nuclear disarmament: “India tabled a working paper on nuclear disarmament in 2006 containing specific proposals that reflect the spirit and substance of the Rajiv Gandhi Action Plan. We call for an intensification of discussion and dialogue among Member States and the larger non-governmental communities so as to strengthen the international consensus that can be translated into concrete action on achieving nuclear disarmament.”
Fissile materials: “India remains committed to the negotiation in the CD of a multilateral, non-discriminatory and internationally verifiable FMCT that meets India's national security interests.”
Nuclear testing: “We remain committed to a unilateral and voluntary moratorium on nuclear explosive testing.”
Indonesia
H.E. Mr. R.M. Marty Natalegawa, Minister for Foereign Affairs
28 September 2010
Disarmament: “We will also strive to ensure the recent positive momentum on the issue disarmament is maintained.”
CTBT: “Indonesia is on track to ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).”
Iran (Islamic Republic of)
H.E Mr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, President
23 September 2010
Disarmament, nuclear weapons, biological weapons, chemical weapons: “Instead of disarmament, the proliferation and stockpiling of nuclear, biological and chemical weapons expanded, putting the world under a bigger threat. As a result, the very same old goals of colonialists and the slave masters were, this time round, pursued with a new facade.”
Nuclear energy: “Nuclear energy is clean and cheap and a heavenly gift which is amongst the most suitable alternatives to cut the pollutions emanating from fossil fuels. The Non- Proliferation Treaty (NPT) allows all member States to use nuclear energy without limits and the International Atomic Energy Agency is mandated to provide member States with technical and legal support.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “The nuclear bomb is the worst inhumane weapon and which must totally be eliminated. The NPT prohibits its development and stockpiling and calls for nuclear disarmament.”
Nuclear energy, nuclear weapons: “Nonetheless, note what some of the permanent members of the Security Council and nuclear bomb holders have done: They have equated nuclear energy with the nuclear bomb, and have distanced this energy from the reach of most of nations by establishing monopolies and pressuring the IAEA. While at the same time, they have continued to maintain, expand and upgrade their own nuclear arsenals.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “Not only the nuclear disarmament has not been realized but also nuclear bombs have been proliferated in some regions, including by the occupying and intimidating Zionist regime.”
Nuclear weapons, nuclear energy: “I would like here to propose that the year 2011 be proclaimed the year of nuclear disarmament and ‘Nuclear Energy for all, Nuclear Weapons for None’.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Had Iran enjoyed veto privilege, would the Security Council and the IAEA Director General have taken the same position in the nuclear issue?”
“The Tehran Declaration was a hugely constructive step in confidence building efforts which was made possible through the admirable good will by the governments of Brazil and Turkey along with the sincere cooperation of the Iranian government. Although the Declaration received inappropriate reaction by some and was followed by an unlawful resolution, it is still valid.”
“We have observed the regulations of the IAEA more than our commitments, yet, we have never submitted to illegally imposed pressures nor will we ever do so.”
Peace, security: “Justice is the basic element for peace, durable security and the spread of love among peoples and nations.”
Iraq
H.E. Mr. Jalal Talabani, President
23 September 2010
Non-proliferation, disarmament: “We call on states that have not yet acceded to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) to accede to the treaty and comply with its provisions.”
Iran’s nuclear programme, nuclear energy: “With regard to the Iranian nuclear issue, Iraq believes in the legitimate right of states to the uses of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, a right guaranteed by international conventions including the NPT. We stress the importance of reaching a peaceful solution in dealing with this issue, and that dialogue and diplomacy are the most successful means to achieve that goal. On other hand, any escalation of the matter would hurt the interests of all parties and put the security of the region at risk.”
Nuclear weapon free zone: “We also call for making the Middle East a zone free of nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction, which would enhance the prospects for peace and security in the region.”
Ireland
H.E. Mr. Micheál Martin, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2010
Iran’s nuclear programme: “The lack of progress in resolving the differences between the international community and Iran over that country’s nuclear program is a source of great concern.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation: “The global security which we all wish to achieve depends crucially on the eradication of the means of conflict. Efforts to achieve nuclear disarmament and to prevent the further proliferation of nuclear weapons have been key objectives for the United Nations since its inception.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, nuclear weapon free zone: “Ireland was the first country to sign and ratify the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty. The successful outcome to last May’s NPT Review Conference has reinvigorated the Treaty and is an important milestone on the road towards the eventual elimination of all nuclear weapons. A key priority for Ireland is the implementation of the action plan on nuclear disarmament agreed there. I am pleased that Ireland made an important contribution at the Review Conference. In particular, we were able to facilitate progress in relation to the implementation of the 1995 resolution of a zone free of weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East.”
Cluster munitions: “Ireland is equally satisfied with the progress made over the past couple of years on the issue of cluster munitions. The Convention on Cluster Munitions, which was negotiated in Dublin in May, 2008, has entered the force as of 1 August of this year. This landmark development brings closer the prospect of the elimination of all cluster munitions and the unacceptable harm to civilians which they cause. We must now move ahead with the implementation of the Convention and promotion of the widest possible adherence to its provisions. Ireland is actively supporting preparations for the first meeting of States Parties of the Convention in Vientiane in November. We will continue to show leadership on this issue and to do all we can to ensure the worldwide elimination of these atrocious weapons.”
Multilateralism: “We look to the United Nations as the indispensable forum for developing effective multilateralism and for leading international endeavors towards the creation of a more peaceful, prosperous and secure world.”
Israel
H.E. Mr. Avigdor Liberman, Deputy Prime Minister
28 September 2010
Iran’s nuclear programme: “The other misguided argument is the claim that the Palestinian issue prevents a determined international front against Iran. This argument is not only flawed, it is completely irresponsible … Just as the Khomeini Revolution had nothing to do with the Palestinian issue, so too is the Iranian decision to develop nuclear weapons unrelated.”
Italy
H.E. Mr. Franco Frattini, Minister for Foreign Affairs
25 September 2010
Disarmament, non-proliferation, WMD, nuclear weapons: “In the field of security, a commitment to disarmament and the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction has always been a feature of Italian foreign policy. Proliferation is a growing threat that can only be countered through international cooperation. In this regard, the Italian government has just presented some concrete proposals. We need to set the goal of a ‘zero-nuclear’ option in an appropriate time frame - but without conveying the impression that it is an unrealistic aspiration.”
Jamaica
H.E. Mr. Orette Bruce Golding, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
Multilateralism: “It is in this mutuality, this interconnectedness and interdependency with all our commonality and diversity that we find both our strengths and our weaknesses. We have seen those strengths at work and what they can accomplish, the positive difference we can make when we surmount our differences and find common purpose in preventing wars and securing peace, safeguarding human rights and promoting human development.”
Nuclear terrorism, non-proliferation: “Mr. President, the danger to international peace and security of nuclear proliferation and nuclear terrorism must remain at the top of the international security agenda.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation, START: “We are encouraged by the 2010 Review Conference of the Non Proliferation Treaty in June which elaborated on measures toward a nuclear-weapons-free world and the strengthening of the nuclear non-proliferation regime. We have no doubt that a contributing factor was the new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty signed between Russia and the United States of America in April of this year. We look forward to the ratification and entry into force of this Treaty between these two states which, together, possess more than ninety percent of the world's nuclear arsenal. Their faithful compliance with the Treaty and commitment to greater transparency in achieving further reductions will secure our hope for eventual nuclear disarmament.”
Small arms and light weapons: “Latin America and the Caribbean are faced with the twin menace of the illicit trade in narcotic drugs and small arms. The open borders in the Caribbean make us an easy conduit for transhipment between the major sources and destinations of illicit drugs. The attendant crime and violence constitute a major threat to national development because they create instability and force us to divert scarce resources to tackle this scourge.”
Small arms and light weapons, ammunition: “The recent High-Level meeting on Transnational Organized Crime and the Fourth Review Conference on Small Arms and Light Weapons were instrumental in reinforcing the need for the implementation of measures to curtail the growing threat. These efforts would be strengthened by the conclusion of a legally binding instrument to curtail the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons and ammunition and we urge the United Nations to approach this troubling issue with the urgency that it deserves.”
Japan
H.E. Mr. Naoto Kan, Prime Minister
24 September 2010
Weapons of mass destruction, missiles: “At this time, the international community is facing a series of challenges that include poverty, hunger, infectious diseases, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and missiles, regional conflicts, global environmental issues.”
Peace: “The second perspective is the importance of acting proactively towards achieving true peace. What does ‘true peace’ mean? I believe that true peace can be sustained only when each and every individual enjoys freedom and lives a fulfilling life with his or her dignity ensured. To achieve it, it is not enough to maintain the absence of a state of war, but requires efforts to build a society in which true peace can be sustained and to restore peace after it has been destroyed.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation: “The third area of contribution is nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. I believe that invention of the nuclear weapon and subsequent threat to the survival of the human race being man's doing the solution to the problem must be within the reach of man's effort.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “What is required is will and action. First big step forward in this regard was the Prague speech by President Obama in which he presented the idea of a world without nuclear weapons.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “Secretary-General Ban Ki -moon visited Japan in August this year and was the first UN Secretary-General to attend the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony and visit Nagasaki. I would like to thank the Secretary-General once again for making this visit. At the Hiroshima ceremony, a representative from the United States was also in attendance, along with the representatives of other countries. I very much welcome that decision, which will contribute to raising the momentum towards a world without nuclear weapons.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “Japan, as the only country that has ever suffered the devastation of atomic bombings, has the moral responsibility to take concrete steps to realize a world without nuclear weapons.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation: “Japan bears a responsibility to all humankind to hand down to future generations an awareness of the catastrophic nature of nuclear weapons. With this objective, I decided to appoint atomic bomb survivors, known in Japan as hibakusha, as ‘Special Communicators for a World without Nuclear Weapons,’ and to ask them to send out messages to the world about the horror of the use of nuclear weapons and the value of peace that only those with firsthand experience can convey. Japan will coordinate with other countries and civil society to promote education on disarmament and non-proliferation issues.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “Last December, Japan submitted a draft resolution entitled, ‘Renewed determination towards the total elimination of nuclear weapons,’ which was subsequently adopted in the General Assembly, with the United States as a co-sponsor for the first time. Japan is determined to continue its efforts to strengthen the trend of broadening support for the resolution in the international community.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation: “Steady implementation of the agreement of the NPT Review Conference in May is essential. Japan and Australia have co-hosted a Foreign Ministers meeting on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation with like-minded countries on the occasion of the opening of the new General Assembly session and launched a new group dedicated to working towards a world without nuclear weapons. We intend to deepen discussions on reducing the role and number of nuclear weapons in the world.”
DPRK nuclear programme: “The DPRK’s nuclear and missile development programs pose a threat to the entire international community. Japan urges the DPRK to take concrete actions in accordance with the series of relevant Security Council resolutions and the Joint Statement of the Six-Party Talks. Moreover, steady implementation of the resolutions by all Member States is essential. Japan has not altered its intention to comprehensively resolve the outstanding issues of concern, settle the ‘unfortunate past’ and normalize relations in accordance with the Japan-DPRK Pyongyang Declaration. Towards that end, it is absolutely indispensable to resolve the abduction issue. If the DPRK takes constructive and sincere steps such as implementing its agreement with Japan, Japan is ready to respond in kind.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “On the Iranian nuclear issue, it is important for the international community to work in unity to implement firmly the relevant Security Council resolutions and to urge Iran to take realistic decisions. Japan wil1 continue to urge Iran to make efforts to dispel the suspicions of the international community. We will also work together with the international community for a peaceful and diplomatic resolution of this issue.”
Peace: “Japan, which underwent reconstruction from the destruction of war and achieved economic growth, is deeply aware of the importance and value of peace. Our efforts in the area of peacekeeping and peacebuilding is a manifestation of our determination to act proactively toward achieving true peace.”
Peace: “The United Nations is the only universal international organization with the goal of promoting world peace and prosperity.”
Nuclear weapons: “I believe that Japan, as the only country that has ever suffered the devastation of atomic bombings and as a country that does not possess nuclear weapons, is well-suited to play a role in the Security Council in the 21st century. I wish to express once again Japan's determined aspiration to take on further responsibilities for international peace and security as a permanent member of the Security Council.”
Jordan
His Majesty King Abdullah II Bin Al Hussein, Head of State
23 September 2010
Multilateralism: “More than ever our world is confronting multiple global crises which cannot be effectively addressed without a coordinated, multilateral action.”
Kazakhstan
H.E. Mr. Kanat Saudabayev, Secretary of State
25 September 2010
Nuclear testing: “On 29 August 1991, the President of Kazakhstan Mr. Nursultan Nazarbayev by his unilaterally shut down, once and for all, one of the world’s largest nuclear test sites. It is highly symbolic that, eighteen years later, the last session of the General Assembly acted upon his initiative to adopt a resolution establishing 29 August as the international day against nuclear tests…. At this stage we call upon States which has not signed or ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) to do so as soon as possible. The entry into force of the CTBT will become one of the key areas of effective implementation of the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), an important instrument forming a foundation for the security of all humanity.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “I would like to reaffirm the urgency and relevance of the initiative of the President of Kazakhstan Mr. Nursultan Nazarbayev to draft a Universal Declaration of a Nuclear-Free World, which would reflect the commitment of all states to firmly and consistently move towards a nuclear-free world.”
Nuclear energy: “We support a legitimate and inalienable right of each State Party to the NPT to develop nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. However, such activities should be carried out in a transparent manner and on the basis of strict compliance with all requirements of the IAEA and under its control. Kazakhstan, being the world’s largest uranium producer, intends to contribute to the development of nuclear energy and is ready to host an international nuclear fuel bank, under the auspices of the IAEA, and to commit itself to its safe storage.”
CTBT, fissile materials, nuclear disarmament: “We are satisfied that the States Parties to the NPT were able to adopt an outcome document last May at the conclusion of the latest NPT Review Conference. Yet, new and more decisive steps are needed today for nuclear disarmament. An early drafting of a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT), which should become, along with the CTBT, an important pillar of the NPT, is one of such steps.”
Negative security assurances: “We believe that it is extremely important to begin, as soon as possible, the drafting of an international legally binding instrument providing security assurances by nuclear powers to nom-nuclear-weapon States. Only such assurances can effectively keep in check the aspirations of certain non-nuclear States to acquire nuclear weapons, which they regard as a guarantee of their own security.”
Nuclear weapon free zones: “The establishment of new zones free from nuclear weapons, including in the Middle East, would represent another step towards achieving the goal of a nuclear free world. We are convinced that a focused and progressive movement in this direction would contribute to the establishment of trust among neighbors in the region and lay the foundations for a radical change in the situation of that long-suffering region.”
Kenya
H.E. Mr. Mwai Kibaki, President
23 September 2010
Multilateralism: “The theme of this 65th Session of the UN General Assembly, "Reaffirming the central role of the United Nations in global governance" is appropriate and timely. Today's transnational challenges, including issues of peace and security, development, human rights, the environment and health, require genuine global governance that encompasses all United Nations member states.”
Kiribati
H.E. Mr. Anote Tong, President
25 September 2010
No relevant references.
Kuwait
His Highness Sheikh Naser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister
24 September 2010
Multilateralism: “It is our hope that the success story of the United Nations will continue for many years to come; not only because it is considered the best multilateral international mechanism there is, but also for being the most legitimate, neutral and credible institution.”
Nuclear energy, Iran’s nuclear programme, nuclear weapon free zone: “While the State of Kuwait affirms the rights of States to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, it calls up all states with similar programs to cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency, and take whatever steps necessary of confidence building to reassure the international community about the nature of its nuclear program, according to the resolutions of international legitimacy. We also emphasize the need to resolve this issue peacefully by diplomatic means through direct negotiations between the concerned parties, which will pave the way to the creation of zone free of nuclear weapons in the Middle East, in implementation of the resolution adopted by the Non-proliferation Treaty Review Conference held at the United Nations headquarters during the past month of May.”
Kyrgyzstan
H.E. Mr. Ruslan Kazakbaev, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, nuclear weapon free zone: “This last May, the NPT Review Conference demonstrated the possibility of achieving an understanding in the critical sphere of nuclear disarmament. My country also is making a contribution to it. Kyrgyzstan has been assigned a depository of a Nuclear Weapon Free Zone in Central Asia. Thus it assists in strengthening regional security and broadening the collaboration with other nuclear weapon free zones.”
Nuclear weapon free zone, nuclear waste: “The ecological dimension is a special feature of the Nuclear Weapon Free Zone in Central Asia; for not to be forgotten are the large quantity of remaining nuclear tailings in Kyrgyzstan which pose a serious risk to human life and the environment in general.”
Lao People's Democratic Republic
H.E. Mr. Choummaly Sayasone, President
24 September 2010
Non-proliferation, militarism: “The use and proliferation of weapons in all forms will undoubtedly have a long-term impact on life of people and impede national social-economic development efforts.”
Nuclear weapons, WMD, non-proliferation, disarmament, peace: “Peace and stability continues to be threaten by weapons of mass destruction especially nuclear weapons. The result of the NPT Review held in May this year did not, by any means, meet our expectations in addressing the non- proliferation of nuclear weapons and making our world free from nuclear weapons. The consensus is far from being reached due to manifest suspicion and distrust over one another. Therefore, it is time to build trust and confidence aiming at creating enabling international environment for a nuclear free world.”
Cluster munitions: “The Oslo convention which has entered into force since 1 August 2010 is a result of close cooperation and shared commitment of the international community to put an end to the serious impact and to free the people from the danger of cluster bombs. As the country most affected by the unexploded ordnance especially the cluster munitions, it is a great pride for Lao PDR to play an active part in the Oslo Process which has led to the adoption of the Convention on Cluster Munitions. The Lao PDR will continue to render its close cooperation with the international community to ensure that this Convention is fully implemented.”
Latvia
H.E. Mr. Valdis Zatlers, President
24 September 2010
Non-proliferation: “Latvia appreciates the positive momentum that was created at the Non-proliferation Treaty Review Conference earlier this year. Stabilizing and strengthening of nuclear non-proliferation regime is a shared responsibility of all the UN members.”
START: “The New START Treaty between the United States and Russian Federation sets a powerful and remarkable example of real steps to reduce the threat of strategic arms and engage other powers in fulfilling the goals of the NPT.”
Iran’s nuclear programme, DPRK nuclear programme: “Latvia as a member of the international community expresses its hope that every diplomatic opportunity will be used to find a comprehensive solution to the Iranian and North Korean nuclear issue.”
Lebanon
H.E. General Michel Sleiman, President
24 September 2010
Israel’s nuclear programme: “Indeed, until today, Israel refuses to join the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and to place all of its nuclear facilities under the IAEA full-scope safeguards.”
Lesotho
H.E. Mr. Pakalitha Bethuel Mosisili, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
Peace: “Mankind must turn away from the path of self-destruction. The route to peace and stability is clear to all of us, yet we continue to lose ourselves in the wilderness of instability and poverty, because we are blinded by ulterior motives.”
Peace, security, disarmament, non-proliferation, nuclear weapons, WMD: “One of the fundamental conditions for maintaining international peace and security is our commitment to the disarmament and non-proliferation agenda. More than six decades after the formation of the UN, disarmament sadly remains a major challenge facing the international community. Today we see a steadily growing list of de-facto Nuclear Weapons States. Proliferation of the weapons of mass destruction must stop. So must the development of new generations of nuclear weapons by nuclear capable states. We must strive for a nuclear weapons free world. It is the responsibility of these states to stop threatening use of nuclear weapons as an option in the pursuit of their foreign policy interests. Lesotho will continue to join hands with all peace-loving Nations to support international disarmament and non-proliferation regimes.”
Multilateralism: “Multilateral diplomacy should supplant the traditional unilateral path in the resolution of disputes.”
Liberia
Her Excellency Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President
24 September 2010
Peace, security, multilateralism: “Because we live in a global village, continued crisis in any Member State or region should warrant our concern. Moreover, an unending crisis contradicts the cardinal objective of the United Nations, which is the promotion of international peace and security.”
Liechtenstein
H.E. Ms. Aurelia Frick, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Justice and Cultural Affairs
28 September 2010
Disarmament: “But we can only safeguard this central place of the United Nations, if we can put it to use to find effective solutions to problems such as climate change, disarmament and other areas where result has been in sufficient.”
Lithuania
H.E. Ms. Dalia Grybauskaité, President
23 September 2010
Chemical weapons: “Lithuania launched the initiative to have a resolution on sea-dumped chemical weapons to the General Assembly. Lithuania wants to strengthen the international efforts in raising public awareness about dangerous ammunition buried in the sea. It is in every country’s interest to go for voluntary information exchange in order to strengthen common security. Each and all must be aware how deadly dangerous these dumped chemicals still are. We need to have guidelines on how to behave in case of disaster.”
Luxembourg
H.E. Mr. Jean Asselborn, Deputy Prime Minister
24 September 2010
Disarmament, non-proliferation, multilateralism: “Whether we discuss ways to ... promote human rights, the rule of law, and democracy in the world, progress towards disarmament and non-proliferation or the fight against terrorism, today more than ever, we need to work together.”
Multilateralism: “As a founding member of the United Nations, Luxembourg fully endorses the Secretary General’s assessment that only the UN has the necessary scope, knowledge and legitimacy to develop and implement effective policies in order to address global challenges, which require urgent and collective responses.”
“It is only together, assembled in the United Nations, that we can help build a better future for us all.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, nuclear weapons, nuclear weapons free zones: “But allow me for a moment to address another issue which should not be overlooked when discussing ways to guarantee and strengthen peace, security and stability at the international level, namely, disarmament and nonproliferation. The success of the 8th Conference on the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, held here in New York in May, brought us closer to our common goal of a safer world for all, a world free from nuclear weapons. It will now be important to maintain the political momentum and to ensure the full implementation of these decisions, including provisions relating to the holding of a Conference in 2012 on a nuclear weapons free zone in the Middle East.”
Disarmament, conventional weapons, nuclear weapons, security, militarism: “[W]e must continue our efforts for both nuclear and conventional disarmament. The constant search for security at the lowest possible level of armaments will be an essential contribution to stability in the world.”
Cluster munitions: “I welcome in this respect the coming into force on 1 August 2010 of the Convention on Cluster Munitions, which prohibits the use, production, transfer and stockpiling of cluster munitions.”
Arms trade treaty, conventional weapons: “Advances made towards a legally binding instrument under the leadership of the UN in the sector of arms trade are also to be welcomed. The problems linked to unregulated trade in conventional weapons and the diversion of these weapons into illicit markets have the potential to fuel instability, organised crime and terrorism, thus jeopardising peace, security, economic and social development. Hence the importance of an eventual adoption of a binding instrument in this field. Together with other partners, my country will organise a symposium on The Arms Trade Treaty in Boston next week, in which all UN member states have been invited to participate. We thus hope to contribute to discussions and reflections on this important issue.”
Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
H.E. Mr. Musa Abdussalam Kousa, Secretary of the General People’s Committee for Foreign Liaison and International Cooperation
28 September 2010
Peace, WMD, nuclear weapons, disarmament, IAEA safeguards, nuclear energy: “[P]eace will not be achieved without a complete elimination of the Weapons of Mass destruction, and the implementation of the provisions of Non-Proliferation Treaty of Nuclear Weapons; which must be applicable to all, without distinction. We wish to remind you here that my country suggested amending this treaty to ensure the disarmament of countries possessing these weapons; and enabling the International Atomic Energy Agency to perform its duties and verify the reduction of nuclear arsenals which constitute the biggest threat to mankind. This question should be given high priority; meanwhile, we should encourage the possession and the use of nuclear energy for peaceful uses. We reaffirm here, as we have on all occasions, that the voluntary initiative of my country to renounce all activities related to the production of banned materials must be a role model to the nuclear-weapons States or States seeking possession of such weapons.”
Landmines: “You are well aware that the anti-personnel mines are a weapon that the vulnerable States use to defend their territories against invading forces. The powerful States do not even need to use them since they possess arsenals of advanced Weapons. In this framework, the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction should be amended, taking into account the interests of the small States. The legislators of this convention should have made the States concerned committed to compensate those affected by mines planted in their lands and to provide legal and political assurances for the protection of small States due to the lack of possession of neither defensive nor offensive weapons. In the light of these facts, my delegation would like to suggest reconsidering the convention knows as ‘Ottawa Convention’.”
Macedonia (The former Yugoslav Republic of)
H.E. Mr. Gjorge Ivanov, President
24 September 2010
Peace, security: “Unfortunately, we are still witnessing daily peace and security disturbances in certain regions in the world, old and frozen conflicts, and also evident is the emergence of new tensions in several regions in the world. If the fundamental institutional and essential objective of this organization is the need for humanity to be spared from suffering, wars, conflicts, then we should ask
ourselves whether the efforts are sufficient to secure peace and prosperity. The answer is no, neither globally nor regionally.”
Malaysia
H.E. Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
Multilateralism: “Let me reaffirm Malaysia’s unwavering and continuing support for the United Nations and the multilateral principles, based on international law, which it embodies. Let me also reiterate Malaysia’s commitment to doing our part in this collective endeavor. We do so in the strong belief that all nations, no matter how large or small, rich or poor, strong or weak, have a common responsibility towards creating a better world for tomorrow.”
Peace: “Among the most important challenges confronting the international community today that needs to be addressed collectively, is the challenge of ensuring a just, equitable and durable peace. Peace not just during our time, but, peace for all times. It is imperative that we have to achieve peace premised upon a covenant of the willing and not one enforced by way of hegemony through fear and coercion. Such peace can only be achieved if we are willing to constructively engage each other through dialogue. Such discussions would help in creating a deeper understanding as well as appreciation and respect of each other in our conviction to create a better future for all citizens of the world.”
Maldives
H.E. Mr. Mohamed Waheed, Vice-President
27 September 2010
No relevant references.
Malta
H. E. Mr. Tonio Borg, Deputy Prime Minister
28 September 2010
Security: “It is an accepted norm that “there is no development without security, no security without development and neither without respect for human rights.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation, START: “Important achievements have been registered in the past months in the field of disarmament and non-proliferation. The new strategic offensive arms agreement to replace the 1991 START, signed in Prague in April 2010, between the President of the United States and of the Russian Federation, created appropriate political momentum which prepared the way for the successful outcome of the 2010 NPT Review Conference.”
Nuclear weapon free zone: “Malta is particularly pleased that among the agreed actions taken by the conference was the endorsement by the NPT State Parties of the convening by the U.N. Secretary-General, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States, in consultation with the countries of the region, of a conference in 2012 to address the establishment of a nuclear weapon free zone and all other weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East.”
Marshall Islands
H.E. Mr. Jurelang Zedkaia, President
25 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation, nuclear testing, nuclear waste: “Finally – I must address one of the most important issue this year within the United Nations. Member states and leaders must improve progress in achieving the goal to stop the spread of nuclear weapons and to pursue the peace and security of a world without them.
“The Marshall Islands has a unique reason for seeking the goal of a world free of nuclear weapons. During our time as a UN Trust Territory, 67 large-scale surface tests of nuclear weapons were conducted on our homeland, explicitly authorized under two UN resolutions in 1954 and 1956. No people should ever bear such a burden.
“For decades, we have told the United Nations about our communities, who are still displaced, about the deliberate use of our people as scientific experiments and of ongoing health impacts inherited through generations. We continue to face the challenges of a UN-era nuclear waste storage site, surrounded by rising waters – towards which we lack resources or technical capacity. We acknowledge important and positive actions already taken by partners –including our former administrator, the United States, but we need – and deserve – improved attention and assistance by the US – as well as from the UN system and multilateral bodies.
“I also acknowledge the support of the Pacific Islands Forum, including the leadership of outgoing chair Australia, as well as the Non-Aligned Movement, in ensuring that the NPT review meeting acknowledged the need to address sites contaminated by testing. I fully expect that member states of the General Assembly will be willing to further recognize that a special responsibility exists towards former UN Trust Territories adversely effected by nuclear testing.
“As the United Nations maps a global future of non-proliferation, the past legacy of nuclear activities can no longer be ignored.”
Mauritania
H.E. Mr. Moulaye Ould Mohamed Laghdaf, Prime Minister
25 September 2010
No relevant references.
Mauritius
H.E. Mr. Arvin Boolell, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade
28 September 2010
Security: “Democracy and the rule of law are essential elements for the development, stability, security and prosperity of any country.”
Mexico
H.E. Mr. Claude Heller, Chairman of the delegation
28 September 2010
Disarmament, non-proliferation, nuclear weapons, START: “In 2010, significant progress has been made in the areas of disarmament and non-proliferation, and the international community has endorsed its commitment to nuclear safety. The signing of the new strategic arms reduction treaty between the U.S. and Russia, the Nuclear Summit held in Washington, and the outcome of the Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), are achievements that must be commended.”
Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, nuclear weapon free zone: “We cannot ignore that the credibility and viability of the disarmament agenda depend on the universalization of the NPT and the entry into force of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). In parallel, the creation of a nuclear weapon free zone in the Middle East would constitute a decisive step towards this end.”
Small arms and light weapons, arms trade treaty: “International security depends not only on the elimination of weapons of mass destruction. It is also threatened by the existence of small arms and light weapons and their illicit trafficking, which fuels conflicts and claim the lives of thousands of people, destabilizing our societies.”
“It is time to tackle this challenge head on, implementing the Programme of Action on illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons, and advancing towards the adoption of an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT).”
WMD: “The existence of weapons of mass destruction remains a threat to humanity and increases the world’s insecurity.”
Micronesia (Federated States of)
H.E. Mr. Alik L. Alik, Vice-President
25 September 2010
No relevant references.
Moldova
H.E. Mr. Alexandru Cujba, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2010
Disarmament, non-proliferation: “The importance of cooperation for the enhancement of international security, disarmament and non-proliferation, and counteracting international terrorism was stressed by many speakers in this hall.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation, START: “After many years of deadlock, significant progress in disarmament and non-proliferation in all its aspects was registered this year. The US-Russian START-agreement, the Nuclear Summit in Washington and the NPT Review Conference represent just a few of the positive examples of the increased cooperation of the member states.”
Cluster munitions, arms trade treaty: “We welcome the entry into force, on August 1st, of the Convention on Cluster Munitions, to which the Moldova brought its contribution, as well as the launching of the negotiations on the Arms Trade Treaty.”
Mongolia
H.E. Mr. Batbold Sukhbaatar, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, START, non-proliferation, nuclear weapon free zone: “In 2010, we have seen renewed international optimism with regard to multilateral disarmament agenda. This shift in climate was reinforced by the new START and the outcome of the Nuclear Security Summit, both of which were welcomed by my Government and were reflected in the outcome of the NPT Review Conference. The Conference agreed on forward-looking action plans that impart a much-needed momentum to the vision of a world free of nuclear weapons. Mongolia welcomes this outcome and is proud of the contribution it made towards nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation by declaring its territory as nuclear - weapons- free. This status is fully recognized by the international community as attested by the Final Document of the Review Conference.”
Nuclear energy: “Mongolia welcomes the increasing role of the IAEA in contributing to the freedom from fear and freedom from want. The achievement of the MDGs depends to some extent on the contribution of nuclear applications in such areas as nuclear energy, health care as well as food and environment security. Mongolia is expanding its cooperation with the Agency, especially in human resource development, nuclear applications in health and agriculture. The 2009-2014 Country Program Framework, signed last year with the Agency, added development of nuclear energy infrastructure and the country's uranium reserves as a priority area of cooperation.”
Montenegro
H.E. Mr. Filip Vujanovic, President
24 September 2010
Disarmament: “Montenegro has been fully committed to implementing all international legal instruments regulating disarmament and arms control, and support any new constructive initiative aimed at strengthening and improving international co-operation for reduction and elimination of the risks and consequences of the production and use of any type of arms or lethal weapons.”
Morocco
H.E. Mr. Abbas El Fassi, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
No relevant references.
Mozambique
H.E. Mr. Oldemiro Marques Balói, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
27 September 2010
Multilateralism: “We need a strong United Nations which could play a central role in mobilizing member States and the international community at large to commit and fully contribute to regional and international peace and security and an enabling environment for the promotion of sustainable development. That is why we believe in multilateralism, and we reiterate our commitment to work in collaboration with all Members states of the United Nations in the pursuit of our common goals to making the world a better place for the whole of humanity.”
Myanmar
H.E. Mr. Nyan Win, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010
Multilateralism: “It is no doubt that the United Nations is the best forum in practicing multilateralism in addressing the challenges facing the world today. The near universal participation of the world’s nations in this global body is a living testimony.”
Nuclear energy, nuclear weapons, non-proliferation, disarmament, START: “As a party to the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT) and to the Treaty on Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapons Free Zone (SEANWFZ), Myanmar has all along recognized the legitimate right of every state to the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. However, we firmly oppose the proliferation or production of nuclear weapons and strongly support any efforts leading towards the realization of the vision of a nuclear weapons free world. We, therefore, heartily welcome the signing of the new START treaty by the leaders of the United States and the Russian Federation with a view to reducing their respective nuclear arsenals. It gave us hope and expectation for the elimination of nuclear weapons and further reduction and limitation of strategic offensive arms. We also join others in calling for early entry into force and full implementation of the START treaty.”
Namibia
H.E. Mr. Hifikepunye Pohamba, President
24 September 2010
Peace, security: “The maintenance of international peace and security is our collective responsibility. Namibia believes that peace, security and stability are the cornerstones for achieving sustainable development.... We urge the international community to support conflict prevention and peace building efforts around the world.”
Non-proliferation, disarmament, nuclear energy, nuclear weapons, multilateralism: “Recently, State Parties to the Non-Proliferation Treaty reaffirmed their commitment to nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation and peaceful use of nuclear energy. We welcome this positive step, in the belief that multilateralism is the most viable option for achieving a world free from the danger of nuclear weapons.”
Nauru
H.E. Mr. Marcus Stephen, President
24 September 2010
No relevant references.
Nepal
H.E. Mr. Bhim Bahadur Rawal, Minister for Home Affairs
27 September 2010
Peace, security: “International peace and security is our shared desire and a common responsibility. Challenges to international peace and security are multiple and complex. In an ever changing world, the sources of threats are different and so are the actors. Political and social conflicts have been aggravated by abject poverty and disparity. Therefore stabilization of global peace and security also demands ensuring freedom from want and hunger as a basic human right and enabling people to realize their full human potentials. Thus, we believe that development, peace and security are inextricably linked with each other.”
Peace: “We are fully aware that the protection and promotion of all human rights and fundamental freedoms strengthens the sustainability of peace and progress.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, weapons of mass destruction, nuclear weapons, CTBT, fissile materials, small arms and light weapons: “Nepal has consistently and unequivocally called for general and complete disarmament of all weapons of mass destruction under effective international control. Nepal stands for complete elimination of nuclear weapons in a time-bound manner. The operationalisation of CTBT and an early conclusion of a Fissile Materials Cut-Off Treaty should be our priority. We support the non-proliferation of small arms and light weapons.”
START: “In this context, we welcome the signing in April earlier this year of the Treaty between the United States and the Russian Federation on Strategic Offensive Arms.”
Non-proliferation, disarmament: “We welcome the successful outcome of the 2010 NPT Review conference.”
Disarmament machinery: “However we call for reinvigorating the Conference on Disarmament, as a multilateral body, to start discussions on substantive issues.”
“Nepal strongly believes that regional mechanisms complement efforts to promote the global disarmament agenda. The UN Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Asia and the Pacific (RCPD), which we are proud to host, must be strengthened to revitalize the ‘Kathmandu Process’ to facilitate dialogues and deliberations for confidence building in the region.”
Disarmament, nuclear weapons: “We also appreciate the Secretary General for his efforts to advance nuclear disarmament on the basis of the five-point action plan he has proposed.”
Netherlands
H.E. Mr. Jan Peter Balkenende, Prime Minister
25 September 2010
No relevant references.
New Zealand
H.E. Mr. Murray McCully, Minister for Foreign Affairs
24 September 2010
Disarmament, non-proliferation, cluster munitions: “New Zealand welcomes the action plan adopted at this year’s Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference, the groundbreaking Nuclear Security Summit, and the entry into force of the convention on Cluster Munitions. These are tangible and practical successes. But we still face some significant challenges.”
Disarmament machinery: “New Zealand is concerned by the continuing inertia in the Conference on Disarmament. The Secretary-General's High-Level Meeting on Disarmament this morning was a valuable step in acknowledging this problem and finding a way forward.”
Nicaragua
H.E. Mr. Samuel Santos López, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2010
Militarism: “No war will bring a partial or momentary solution, much less will a war bring about a definitive solution.”
“War games on the Korean Peninsula increase tension in that zone and put advances between the Koreas at risk. Europe nor the Persian Gulf have escaped the military zones which are underway. The establishment of military bases and the disp1ay of nava1 and air power on Latin American soil threaten political stability of our nations.”
Peace: “‘Among individuals and between nations, respect to the other one's rights is equivalent to peace.’ This saying by Benito Juárez, President of Mexico, and the first indigenous president in the Americas, clearly reflects the notion and will for peace of the peoples of the world. This quote should be a guide for action by our Organization, particularly, by the Security Council, in order that its actions should adhere to the Purposes and principles of the United Nations.”
“From this forum Nicaragua makes vehement call for world Peace, for the survival of the human species, for the dignified future of the noblest aspiration of man. This is the only possible future.”
Disarmament and development: “On the other hand, for Nicaragua, there is a close relation between disarmament and development. Our commitment to security includes a commitment to the promotion of human development which we understand to be equivalent to sustainable development - development centered on the human being which should take place with good government practices and direct citizens’ participation and with social equality, all of which is indispensable for true development.”
Military spending: “From our point of view, the assignment of resources released as a result of disarmament should be directed to guaranteeing national development social goals in each of our countries. If we were to gloss over the fact that trillion of dollars are spent on war, we would realize how many human problems could have been resolved, thus alleviating the pain caused by poverty and exclusion. The world economic and financial crises had little or no effect on world military spending.”
Disarmament, nuclear weapons, peace: “Nicaragua continues to have a firm commitment to the cause of general and complete disarmament. Nicaragua, considers that to guarantee strict compliance with the arms control and disarmament accords and in order that we attain total disarmament, especially nuclear disarmament, there must be a climate of fundamental trust and solidarity as the only option for real and lasting world peace.”
Nuclear energy: “Nicaragua supports the inalienable right of the parties of the Non – Proliferation Treaty to use nuclear energy for indiscriminate peaceful purposes.”
“Nicaragua encourages actions taken in favor of the exchange of material resources, equipment and technology destined to the peaceful use of nuclear energy which would guarantee sustainable economic development in every nation and in the world.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Precisely because of this conviction, Nicaragua demands that Iran nor any other nation be cornered because they develop nuclear programs for peaceful purposes. It is possible to develop trust on the basis of dialogue and negotiation. In this regard Nicaragua joins the general support garnered by the tripartite declaration (Brazil, Turkey, Iran) which continues an alternative toward regional and world peace.”
“Security Council resolution 1929 which imposes new sanctions on the Islamic Republic of Iran has increased the potential for large scale military conflict with unforeseeable consequences.”
Niger
H.E. Lieutenant-General Salou Djibo
23 September 2010
No relevant references.
Nigeria
H.E. Mr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, President
24 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, nuclear weapon free zones: “Soon after I assumed the leadership of our country, I was invited by President Barak Obama to a mini-summit on Nuclear Disarmament in Washington, DC. Like all previous Nigerian leaders, I share the American President’s vision of a world free of nuclear weapons, and I will continue to collaborate with him and all like-minded leaders for the realization of this laudable goal. Our support and active participation in the adoption of Pelindaba Treaty is evidence of our commitment to the total elimination of nuclear weapons. This conforms with our status as a signatory to major treaties on disarmament.”
Small arms and light weapons, arms trade treaty, non-proliferation: “On the other hand, Small Arms and Light Weapons have destabilized the continent; fuelled and prolonged conflicts; and obstructed relief programmes. They have also undermined peace initiatives; increased human rights abuses; hampered development; and perhaps more worrisome, they have fostered a culture of organized crime and violence.
“We however note that illicit trade and proliferation of small arms and light weapons is not accorded commensurate attention. Nigeria calls on the United Nations to take firm action toward the control of the proliferation of small arms and light weapons by adopting an Arms Trade Treaty.
“It is estimated that 100 million pieces of these weapons are in sub-Sahara Africa alone. These have been identified as falling in the category of weapons that are actually killing more people in the African conflict than have been killed by any other types of weapons. However, unlike nuclear, biological and chemical weapons, there are no global treaties or legally binding instruments for dealing with the challenges of small arms and light weapons.”
Norway
H.E. Ms. Tine Mørch Smith, Deputy Permanent Representative
29 September 2010
No relevant references.
Oman
H.E. Mr. Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al-Busaidi, State Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation, multilateralism: “The international community meets today in challenging times, faced with ? full range of complex issues, from ongoing political instability, to security challenges, financial crises, economic and environmental problems, to the nuclear question and nonproliferation. We have learned that the only solutions to such challenges can best be attained through dialogue and positive participation by all, aimed at arresting dangers that threaten international security and peace.”
Pakistan
H.E. Mr. Makhdoom Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010
Disarmament, non-proliferation: “Disarmament and non-proliferation are important pillars of the international peace and security architecture. We remain committed to both objectives. We believe that this should be pursued in an equitable and nondiscriminatory manner.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, nuclear weapons: “Pursuit of discriminatory policies, and disregard for the security interests of states, seriously erode globally the moral authority that must underlie equitable approaches to promote the goals of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.”
Conventional weapons, militarism: “Asymmetric build-up of conventional weapons and espousal of aggressive doctrines, impact negatively on regional security.”
Nuclear weapons, conventional weapons: “We have consistently pursued a policy of conventional and nuclear restraint, along with conflict resolution in South Asia.”
Multilateralism: “The world needs a new multilateral approach that truly subscribes to the values and principles that we, the peoples of the United Nations, signed sixty five years ago.”
Palau
H.E. Johnson Toribiong, President
24 September 2010
Disarmament, non-proliferation, nuclear weapons: “Palau also supports the efforts of the international community related to disarmament and the prevention of the proliferation of nuclear weapons. Palau was the world’s first nuclear free constitution and so the elimination of nuclear weapons is of special concern.”
Disarmament, nuclear weapons, nuclear weapon free zones: “Having experienced the horror and devastation of war, we and our neighbors, including Japan, long for the day when the entire world is free of nuclear weapons. We therefore welcome all efforts to add the Middle East to the list of nuclear free weapon zones.”
Unexploded ordnance: “As a result of the fierce battles fought on our islands during World War II, explosives were scattered on our land. Some of these explosives are still active and pose an extreme danger to the lives and limbs of our people. We appeal to the conscience of the world, especially of those responsible, to remove this danger from our midst.”
Palestine
H.E. Mr. Mahmoud Abbas, President
25 September 2010
No relevant references.
Panama
H.E. Mr. Ricardo Martinelli Berrocal, President
23 September 2010
Multilateralism, security: “Our pacifism does not imply passiveness before situations that affect peace, international security and the governability of peoples. Change is in the air all over the globe. People demand more of their public servants. Our political and diplomatic actions are founded in the principles of international cooperation and the strengthening of global multilateralism. The trafficking of drugs, weapons, human organs and of persons, associated with illegal migration, money laundering, gangs and terrorism are part of criminal organizations that seek to destabilize our democracies.”
“The United Nations provides a forum of good will so nations can work together on shared goals. In our region that means jobs, opportunity and security for people.”
Small arms and light weapons: “The trafficking and possession of illegal weapons has a devastating effect on human security and the governability in our countries.”
Papua New Guinea
H.E. Sir Michael Somare, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation: “Nuclear Weapons continue to provide anxiety in our security considerations. While some may argue that Nuclear Weapons have provided the reasons as to why the World has not gone into another World War, my government believes that this weapon of mass destruction is unnecessary and needs to be eliminated. As part of that process, we support efforts for the strengthening of the mechanisms aimed at non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.”
Paraguay
H.E. Mr. Héctor Lacognata, Foreign Minister
29 September 2010
Multilateralism: “We are extremely pleased that some major powers have returned to the path of multilateralism. Certain challenges facing humanity can only be resolved with the participation of all states.”
Multilateralism, security: “Only by securing a strong multilateral system with strict adherence to international law and respect for the sovereignty and self-determination of peoples can we can ensure our mutual security.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, peace, security, disarmament and development: “Disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control are not only essential for ensuring peace and security, but also for ensuring economic and social development is not stunted in the most vulnerable countries.”
Peru
H.E. Mr. Alan García Pérez, President
23 September 2010
Militarism: “Peru reaffirms its willingness to cooperate with the United Nations and other states to address the challenges of climate change, terrorism, extreme poverty, economic crises, drug trafficking, arms buildups, and xenophobia.”
Multilateralism, peace, security: “But we are conscious, Mr. Chairman, that since we live in a multipolar and interdependent system, none of these important achievements attained by Peru will be sustainable in the long-run unless we join efforts to combat common threats. Peace, security and cooperation, are inseparable elements of globalization and we are obliged to promote them with coordinated strategies. Mr. President, over 20 years after the end of the Cold War, we have not yet constructed the ‘stability’ of a new multilateralism, based on the effectiveness of international law. We live in a state of uncertainty in which instability wins out over peace and in which new threats arise, testing the creativity and political will of governments as well as civil society.”
Nuclear weapons, conventional weapons, military expenditure, arms race: “Peru understands that global security is the result of a combination of internal and external factors. Hence, we are profoundly concerned about the proliferation of nuclear weapons, but also the proliferation of conventional weapons, since it is the latter that are causing the death and destruction currently occurring around the world. Moreover, these weapons limit social development, and, by allowing poverty and inequality to fester, stoke the fires of instability. Peru therefore considered it necessary to propose, within the framework of the South American Community of Nations, the creation and adoption of a Protocol on Peace, Security, and Cooperation as well as to call for the reduction of military expenditures.
“We are astounded that despite having created an instrument of integration and confidence such as the South American Community of Nations, we the ten South American members have already invested $25 billion in new weapons and spent another $150 billion on operational maintenance costs. Those same expenditures could have lifted over 50 million people out of poverty. And in the next 5 years, if we fail to stop this trend, we will spend another $35 billion on new weapons and $200 billion on other military costs, locking us in an irrational, self-perpetuating arms race.
“But this absurd situation that is taking hold of South America is even more severe on a global scale. How is it possible that nations continue to allocate so much capital to purchase of armaments when there are so many living in poverty? It seems almost as if the Cold War had not ended.
“We therefore reiterate the call we made to UNASUR and the Organization of American States, a call we will insist on at all the international fora we are members of: allocate fewer resources to buy weapons and more resources to combat poverty... We will push multilateral financial organizations to put in place conditions restricting military expenditures just as there exist clauses regarding environmental factors... Mr. President, the production of harmful drugs is a serious a concern—as is the consumption of these drugs in the planet’s richest countries. But equally as serious is the manufacture of armaments so that impoverished states will purchase them, weakening development and justice in these countries. Our call to world leaders is simple, stop buying armaments and feed the humble, develop lands, and create jobs.
“This principle is neglected because we still believe the false concept that power is defined in military terms, when actually a people’s true strength lies in their intelligence and their ability to help the least fortunate.”
Arms race: “[I]ntegration is an asset from which all participating states benefit sooner or later, and the best way to integrate is to stop arms buildups.”
“Our message is one of optimism with respect to the global situation: strengthen education and limit the arms buildups.”
Small arms and light weapons, multilateralism: “[J]ust as with the international financial crisis, each of our nations is obliged to coordinate our actions to adequately address terrorism, the global drug problem, illicit arms trafficking, corruption, money laundering, human trafficking, contraband, and environmental degradation.”
Philippines
H.E. Mr. Benigno Aquino III, President
24 September 2010
Weapons of mass destruction: “In a world that has become increasingly globalized, the challenges that we face have become globalized as well. Climate change: pandemics: terrorism and weapons of mass destruction ... all call for a further strengthening of international cooperation.”
Poland
H. E. Mr . Witold Sobkow, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, WMD, disarmament: “Our goal is a world without nuclear weapons and other arms of mass destruction.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation: “2010 will hopefully be associated with major progress in the area of disarmament and non-proliferation. The success of the Review Conference of states-parties to the Non-Proliferation Treaty has proved that a consensus is possible in this specific area of international cooperation. Efficient and practical implementation of the NPT Review Conference remains a crucial task. We are convinced that the initiative launched recently by Australia and Japan, which involves the participation of Poland and 10 other countries, will contribute to this goal.”
Nuclear weapons, START, disarmament: “We perceive the NPT Review Conference, new post-START Treaty, and Nuclear Security Summit as significant steps forward but which implementation remains a challenge. Among the issues related to nuclear disarmament there is one that clearly stands out: the status of sub-strategic nuclear weapons, whose reduction and elimination has not yet been covered by any legally binding international instrument. A world without nuclear weapons cannot be achieved if this challenge is left unattended.”
Disarmament machinery: “The Conference on Disarmament requires our special attention. We applaud the efforts of t h e UN Secretary-General who convened a few days ago a special summit devoted to disarmament. Poland attaches considerable importance to this body and calls on all states to redouble their efforts to invigorate the Conference as a platform for multilateral disarmament and nonproliferation negotiations.”
Portugal
H.E. Mr. José Socrates, Prime Minister
25 September 2010
Peace, security: “Keeping peace and international security, avoiding war, is surely one of the noblest of our objectives. The Charter defines the way we, the United Nations, should act together to prevent or remove threats to peace and how to respond to acts of aggression or other violations of our universal principles.”
Multilateralism: “International peace and security require an effective multilateralism in the UN bodies. Effective multilateralism needs to be based on working structures with which every member state feels comfortable. The United Nations, Mr. President, is the Indispensable Organization!”
Qatar
His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Amir
23 September 2010
Iran’s nuclear programme: “You may all know that our region is still experiencing the highest degree of tension in the world. ... The Iranian nuclear crisis requires a solution. We have repeatedly stressed the importance of reaching this solution through peaceful and diplomatic means, and in our view, direct dialogue between the United States of America and the Islamic public of Iran would contribute to the resolution of this crises.”
Weapons of mass destruction: “This is a very difficult goal that can only be achieved by renouncing the use of force, freeing the region of weapons of mass destruction without exceptions, and the settlements of bilateral disputes and regional conflicts on the basis of international law, the charter of the United Nations, the resolutions of international legitimacy and the principles of justice and equity.”
Peace and security: “The other issue that we would like to emphasize is that we believe that even as the phenomenon of terrorism exists, it should not be treated by waging wars. This treatment has not achieved security, peace or prosperity. To the contrary, it has spread destruction everywhere, deprived millions of people from their livelihoods, spread fear, and caused the killing and displacing of millions as well as economic and financial crises that shook the stability of the world and undermined the efforts made in dialogue among cultures.”
Peace, security, multilateralism: “Through our approach, we hope to contribute, nationally, regionally and internationally, to the establishment of peace and security, as well as the stability and development that come with them. Thus, we hope to play our part of the collective responsibility as expressed in the Charter for the common good.”
Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. Shin Kak-Soo, Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade
25 September 2010
WMD, delivery systems, nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation: “One of the most urgent security challenges of today is the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery. It is imperative to further strengthen international disarmament and non-proliferation regimes built around the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). In this regard, Korea welcomes the adoption of the final document at the 2010 NPT Review Conference. We trust that this hard-won achievement will lay the groundwork for future progress in nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.”
DPRK nuclear programme: “And yet, the most looming task in our step towards a ‘peace community’ is the resolution of the North Korean nuclear issue. Without North Korea’s forgoing its nuclear weapons program, no sustainable peace could be achieved on the Korean peninsula and beyond.
“Through the adoption of the UN Security Council Resolutions 1718 and 1874, the international community urged North Korea to abandon all nuclear weapons and existing nuclear programs in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner. To depart from sanctions and isolation, North Korea should make the strategic decision to live up to its commitments to denuclearization. A nuclear-free North Korea would also open an avenue to saving its people from the current miserable human rights and humanitarian situation.
“Last year, on this very occasion, President Lee proposed the ‘Grand Bargain’ initiative: a single comprehensive agreement that encompasses all steps for North Korea’s denuclearization and the Five Parties’ corresponding measures. Together with the international community, we will work tirelessly to have North Korea make the right choice that would ensure a better future for both its country and people.”
WMD terrorism: “The nexus of WMD and terrorism also poses a grave risk to global security. Based on this shared understanding, the Leaders at the Washington Nuclear Security Summit last April recognized the potentially catastrophic consequences of nuclear terrorism and committed to strengthen nuclear security. It was agreed that concrete steps for securing nuclear materials should be taken to prevent them from falling into the hands of terrorists. We look forward to follow-up discussions on nuclear security at the second Nuclear Security Summit which is to be held in Korea in 2012.”
Romania
H.E. Mr. Emil Boc, Prime Minister
24 September 2010
Disarmament, non-proliferation, START, nuclear energy, nuclear weapons: “Coming to the crucial role of the UN in the area of disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control, I would like to underline both the needed to strengthen the relevance of international law and its full implementation. Romania welcomes the new United States- Russian Federation Treaty on nuclear arms reduction and the adoption of the final document of the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons Treaty Review Conference in May 2010, which contains concrete actions to advance international cooperation in the field of nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation and peaceful use of nuclear energy.”
Fissile materials, CTBT: “The entry in to force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty and future negotiations for a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty continue to be issues of high interest for my country.”
Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Vitaly Churkin, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, START: “This year has been marked by progress in the field of nuclear disarmament. The Treaty signed by the Presidents of Russia and the USA in Prague on Measures for the Further Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms is a real contribution of our two countries to the strengthening of international security and strategic stability … We hope that the strong impetus given by Moscow and Washington to the process of nuclear disarmament will be followed by all nations, first of all, by nuclear-weapon states.”
Disarmament, outer space: “Pursuant to Russia’s policy toward the strengthening of the UN role in issues of global security, disarmament and confidence-building, we intend to table three draft resolutions during the current UN GA session: on Transparency and Confidence-Building Measures in Outer Space Activities co-sponsored with China; a draft resolution on Information and Telecommunications Achievements in the Context of International Security; and Russia and the US co-sponsored a draft resolution on Bilateral Strategic Offensive Arms Reductions and the New Framework for Strategic Relations. We call for their adoption by consensus.”
Non-proliferation: “Making the NPT universal and ensuring its strict implementation is a cornerstone of the consolidation of the international non-proliferation regimes.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Search must continue for an effective solution to the Iranian nuclear problem on the basis of NPT provisions and the norms of international Law. The Iranian side must ensure the required level of transparency and cooperation with the IAEA which is acting on behalf of the international community with the support by the UN Security Council. Clarification of the outstanding questions regarding the Iranian nuclear program would meet not only the goals of strengthening the non-proliferation regime but quite obviously the interests of Iran as well. Russia sees no reasonable alternative to a political and diplomatic settlement of the Iranian nuclear problem through a constructive dialogue between Tehran and the Six … As far as the instrument of sanctions is concerned, the sanctions are not a goal in itself. The objective of the sanctions regime established by the Security Council is to send a signal to Iran about the need for full cooperation with IAEA, and to give an impetus to the negotiating process.”
Nuclear weapon free zone: “The development of a comprehensive strategy to address the interconnected problems of the Middle East is on the agenda. It is necessary to continue efforts towards an international conference in 2012 on the establishment of a zone free of nuclear weapons and other WMDs and their means of delivery in the Middle East pursuant to the decision of the NPT Review Conference.”
Rwanda
H.E. Mr. Paul Kagame, President
24 September 2010
No relevant references.
Saint Kitts and Nevis
H.E. Mr. Sam Condor, Deputy Prime Minister
27 September 2010
Multilateralism: “Notwithstanding the absence of absolute synergies in all areas of our multinational cooperative endeavors there can be little doubt that we have established a solid foundation that allows us to envision new and exciting horizons. The realization of these
however, requires that as we contemplate bold initiatives comparable to the challenges faced, the United Nations must itself be prepared to further deepen its engagement with member states.”
Saint Lucia
H.E. Mr. Stephenson King, Prime Minister
24 September 2010
Small arms and light weapons: “We call for a comprehensive treaty on small arms and light weapons, alongside the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. Small arms and light weapons account for more deaths than natural causes in some parts of the world.”
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
H.E Camillo M. Gonsalves, Permanent representative of Saint Vincent and Grenadines to the United Nations
29 September 2010
Peace, militarism: “Saint Vincent and the Grenadines makes miniscule monetary and military contributions to the UN. But our contribution to the maintenance of international peace and security is measured in our historical aversion to wars, our culture of tolerance, peace and plurality and a small state perspective that understands that peace are not always best achieved with millions of dollars or armed enforces, but often with dialogue and small but meaningful peace building actions. Our contribution is succinctly captured in our national motto, which translated from Latin, reads simply “Peace and Justice”.
Small arms: “Saint Vincent and the Grenadines echoes and adopts as our own the proposals enunciated by our CARICOM sister states for prompt action on the global challenges of non-communicable diseases, small arms, narcotics, and transnational crime, the decade-old Doha Development Round of trade negotiations, international cooperation in tax matters and concessional assistance and debt relief for middle income island states. We cannot allow narrow ideological agendas to distract us or detract from the accomplishment of these tasks, upon which there is a broad agreement.”
Samoa
H.E. Mr. Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
Weapons of mass destruction, non-proliferation, WMD terrorism: “The non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the risk of their acquisition by terrorists, criminals and others should continue to be a top priority of the United Nations.”
Nuclear terrorism, nuclear weapons, disarmament, nuclear weapon free zone: “Nuclear terrorism is one of the most challenging threats and hazards for international peace and security. A world without nuclear weapons is safer, more secure and a prosperous place to live. We have heard from this podium the renewed efforts by the major nuclear weapons powers to restart the reduction of their nuclear arsenals. This is encouraging, but we believe that the only absolute guarantee against the use and threat of use of nuclear weapons is through their total elimination, In this connection, we are comforted by the announcement earlier in the year by the United States Government that it was moving towards ratification of the Pacific region’s Nuclear Free Zone Treaty.”
San Marino
H.E. Ms. Antonella Mularoni, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
Multilateralism: “Today, the theme of Global governance is inevitably linked to a new way of conceiving multilateralism and to a new form of international cooperation, which acknowledges the interdependence of the problems we have to face, either internationally, nationally, or regionally. We have learned from the crises of the last few years that it is necessary to adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach, a more effective mechanism to coordinate our policies and a global and coordinated course of action.”
Sao Tome and Principe
H.E. Mr. Carlos Alberto Pires Tiny, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2010
Multilateralism: “The defense of multilateralism is of vital importance.”
Nuclear energy: “Sao Tome expresses its concern at attempts to use nuclear energy for non-peaceful purposes. And hopes that its users do so in accordance with the existing mechanisms of international regulations supervision.”
Senegal
H.E. Mr. Abdoulaye Wade, President
24 September 2010
No relevant references.
Serbia
H.E. Mr. Boris Tadic, President
25 September 2010
No relevant references.
Seychelles
H.E. Mr. Jean-Paul Adam, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2010
No relevant references.
Sierra Leone
H.E. Mr. Ernest Bai Koroma
23 September 2010
Multilateralism: “More than any other organization, we support the United Nations as a centre of global governance. It has a unique characteristic of global mandate and universal membership. This makes it an indispensable and neutral catalyst for the achievement of ‘international cooperation in solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural, or humanitarian character’. This centrality of the role of the United Nations in global governance cannot be over-emphasized.”
Singapore
H.E. Mr. George Yeo, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010
No relevant references.
Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Ivan Gašparovic, President
23 September 2010
Multilateralism: “The foreign policy of Slovakia, as UN member, is based on respect for the core democratic values, international law and effective multilateralism. We therefore welcome and support the main theme of the 65th Session of the UN GA ‘Reaffirming the Central Role of the United Nations in Global Governance’. This topic is all the more important, since we often witness failure to respect binding decisions taken by UN bodies, and from time to time even among the various UN institutions.”
Peace, security: “One of the most important missions of the UN is to act as a guarantor of the formulation, protection and implementation of the principle of collective security of States. Hence, the preservation of international peace and security at a global level and within the bounds of international law must remain at the core of UN activities. For peace and security become particularly vulnerable in times of global financial and economic crises. They require increased attention on our part in order to remain under the control of States and the international community.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, weapon of mass-destruction, terrorism, CTBT: “The process of arms control and disarmament represents the most important instrument for the prevention of war conflicts. The progress achieved in the area of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction gives us a reason for cautious optimism. Our duty is to continue the effort and strengthen the global system of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Yet, the risk of such weapons falling in the hands of terrorists remains high. We are also prepared to cooperate with our partners on a number of priorities, such as the entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test Ban Treaty.”
Disarmament, START, Conference on Disarmament: “We appreciate the new post-START treaty between the Russian Federation and the U.S. We believe that the treaty will invigorate the process of disarmament, which is getting off the ground, and increase pressure on certain states to desist from their ambitions to own nuclear weapons. In particular, I wish to underscore the important role played by the Conference on Disarmament, which is referred to as the sole multilateral disarmament negotiating forum.”
Small arms, arms trade treaty: “In the area of conventional weapons, it is necessary to continue negotiations leading to the adoption of an effective arms trade treaty. Adequate attention must also be paid to small arms whose uncontrolled spreading may have devastating consequences for the maintenance of peace and security, particularly in conflict areas.”
Slovenia
H.E. Mr. Borut Pahor, Prime Minister
25 September 2010
No relevant references.
Solomon Islands
H.E. Mr. Peter Shanel Agovaka, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade
27 September 2010
Multilateralism: “Solomon Islands believe in multilateralism and value the importance of having a closer working relationship between the United Nations and member states.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “My delegation welcomes the outcome of the summer nuclear Conference. The existence of the nuclear weapons continues to pose a significant threat to humanity. History has shown the horror, depth and devastation of nuclear weapons. Solomon Islands support total elimination of all nuclear weapons as the only absolute guarantee in having a safe and secure world.”
Somalia
H.E. Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, President of the Transitional Federal Government
25 September 2010
No relevant references.
South Africa
H.E. Ms. Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, Minister for International Relations and Cooperation
25 September 2010
Multilateralism: “Despite the challenges that face humanity in the 21st century, the relevance of the United Nations as a multilateral mechanism through which a myriad of complex world affairs can be administered and resolved cannot be over-emphasized.”
WMD, disarmament, disarmament machinery: “This world, Excellencies, should be free of weapons of mass destruction in accordance with our undertakings on total disarmament. In this regard South Africa welcomes the recently agreed program of work of the Conference on Disarmament.”
Spain
H.E. Mr. Miguel Angel Moratinos Cuyaube, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
25 September 2010
Multilateralism: “We should establish new mechanisms of global governance in order to update the system of international relations. We should also strengthen multilateralism and security, reinforce the way out from the global recession and properly manage the growing interculturalism.”
“An effective multilateralism is the method that will allow us to face the global challenges of the twentieth century; a method that stems from the efforts of this General Assembly and the commitment and work of the leaders of the States here represented; a method based on respect and recognition to establish new alliances and build common strategies and policies.”
“This capacity to act and effectively give expression to the effort of all countries through a multilateral approach is the way for the international system to meet the challenges we presently face.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, START, nuclear weapon free zone: “This year significant progress has also been made in security, disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation matters. The new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) makes possible the reduction of 30 percent of the nuclear heads deployed by the United States and Russia, and represents the greatest nuclear agreement in 20 years. Last May, all 189 countries signatories to the Non-Proliferation Nuclear Treaty approved the convening of a Conference in 2012 to transform the Middle East into a zone free of weapons of mass destruction.”
Sri Lanka
H.E. Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa, President
23 September 2010
Multilateralism: “In order to achieve the full realization of our potential, we desire a supportive external environment. Towards this end, we will always look for constructive engagement and partnerships. We will, from our side, continue to contribute as we have always done, to the cause of multilateralism and a principled global order.”
Sudan
H.E. Mr. Ali Osman Mohamed Taha, Vice-President
27 September 2010
Nuclear weapon free zone, nuclear energy: “We call for a Middle East that is free of nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction and underline the rights of states who have acquired nuclear technology for peaceful uses.”
Suriname
H.E. Mr. Desiré Delano Bouterse, President
25 September 2010
No relevant references.
Swaziland
H.M. King Mswati III, Head of State
25 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation, disarmament: “The UN must never compromise the execution of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons by ensuring that all countries, without exception, comply. Countries must be made to comply and be accountable within clear timeframes.”
“Our world today continues to be concerned with nuclear proliferation and the threat that weapons of mass destruction poses on human existence, world, peace, economic development and the environment. The spread of nuclear weapons makes a mockery of our efforts for world peace and protection of the environment. It is a dishearten fact that currently efforts to ensure accountability and compliance with UN resolutions are hindered by apparent lack of impartiality in the process meant to completely rid the world of deadly nuclear weapons.”
Weapons of mass destruction, nuclear weapons, disarmament: “It is my suggestion that we eliminate all weapons of mass destruction because they present an uncertain future. Indeed, we need a fresh start so that we may regain the high moral ground in deterring whoever may have ambitions of nuclear capability in the future….if we compel everyone to dismantle their nuclear capacity we will be able to reign in on other countries which may still be developing their arsenal, without being accused of unfairness or bias.”
Non-proliferation: “I call upon the United Nations to strengthen the capacity of the international atomic energy agency to enable the inspectors to do their work more effectively-with involvement of all the countries with nuclear capability.”
Sweden
H.E. Mr. Marten Grunditz, Chairman of the Delegation
28 September 2010
Conventional weapons, arms trade treaty: “The control of conventional arms is also an urgent priority. Illicit or uncontrolled spread of such weapons contributes to regional and international instability, maiming and killing thousands. We must seize the opportunity and strive together to find the political will to agree on regulating mechanisms, such as is currently being discussed in the form of an Arms Trade Treaty.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation, START: “We strive for a world without nuclear weapons. World leaders have made significant progress in disarmament and non-proliferation efforts in the past years. The new START agreement is of great importance, but there is scope for further reductions not least of non-strategic nuclear arsenals.”
“The spread of nuclear weapons must be stopped. The Action Plan adopted at the NPT Review Conference in May, covering the three, mutually reinforcing pillars of the NPT must be implemented and fully respected.”
CTBT: “The early entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty CTBT is as urgent as ever.”
Disarmament machinery: “The unacceptable deadlock in the Conference of Disarmament must come to an end.”
DPRK nuclear programme, Iran’s nuclear programme: “We are deeply concerned that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea has continued its withdrawal from the NPT, even having tested two nuclear devices, and that Iran has been conducting activities in violations of its NPT commitments. It is of vital importance that commitments under the NPT are honoured.”
Switzerland
H.E. Ms. Doris Leuthart, President
23 September 2010
Weapons of mass destruction, peace, security, small arms and light weapons: “Thirty years after the end of the Cold War, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction remains a grave threat to peace and security. But the gravest harm among civilian populations is caused by small arms and light weapons.”
Multiateralism: “Switzerland remains firmly convinced of the appropriateness of a multilateral approach, with the United Nations at its centre.”
Syrian Arab Republic
H.E. Mr. Walid Al-Moualem, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010
Nuclear weapon free zone, nuclear weapons, Israel’s nuclear programme: “My country has been advocating the establishment of a nuclear weapon free zone in the Middle East since 2003, a demand we included in a resolution we tabled before the Security Council at the time. We continue to stress that Israel must comply with international decisions calling on it to adhere to the Non Proliferation Treaty and to submit its nuclear installations to the IAEA safeguards regime. Israeli accession to the Treaty is of extreme significance for the security and stability of the region. We often wonder why they talk about the universality of the NPT but hasten to make strenuous efforts to shelter Israel from the Agency’s oversight. They are encouraging Israel to continue developing its nuclear military program which is a cause of concern to the people of the Middle East.”
Nuclear energy: “We reaffirm that all states have the right to acquire nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, as guaranteed by the NPT. We also call for the peaceful resolution of all disputes relevant to this aspect through dialogue.”
Tajikistan
H.E. Mr. Emomali Rahmon, President
23 September 2010
Multilateralism, peace: “Within the new format of multilateral cooperation our efforts are aimed at counteracting terrorism and narcotics threat that are difficult to uproot unless the problems of poverty, unemployment, and other urgent social issues are dealt with, and these efforts are called on to strengthen and specify global measures aimed at strengthening of the peace process.”
Thailand
H.E. Mr. Kasit Piromya, Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2010
Security: “Development is linked to human security which is linked to human rights. People must have freedom from want as well as from fear.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, security, nuclear weapon free zone: “Thailand believes that global disarmament and non-proliferation are essential to level the security playing field, to dispel the sense of power and security imbalance. The United Nations must continue its active role to this end, but major powers and regional entities must do their fair share-the Southeast Asian Nuclear-Weapon free Zone Treaty (SEANWFZ) is a good case in point.”
WMD, disarmament, non-proliferation: “Thailand supports international efforts towards the disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.”
WMD terrorism: “We have consistently abided by the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and are gravely concerned with the threat of the proliferation of such weapons to terrorists. That is why Thailand has recently joined the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism.”
Peace: “Thailand aspires to work closely with our international partners to ensure the path towards war is rerouted towards peace- and never tread again.”
Timor-Leste
H.E. Mr. José Ramos-Horta, President
25 September 2010
Iran’s nuclear programme: “We fully subscribe to Iran's legitimate rights to develop nuclear technology for peaceful purposes and we caution the powers that be not to haste in reaching conclusions that may lead to irreversible catastrophic decisions.”
Nuclear energy: “We do have serious doubts, however, about the reliability and safety of nuclear energy. Let's not forget the lessons of the Three Mile Island accident which occurred at 4?? 28th March 1979 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and the even worse Chernobyl nuclear meltdown of April 1986. The recent catastrophe of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico would pale by comparison with a blow up of a nuclear energy facility.”
Nuclear weapons: “We don't know whether Iranian rulers do have the desire to be an armed nuclear power or not. But what we do know is that the possession of nuclear weapons is not a short cut to super-power status as some in Asia seem to think and does not insure anyone against 21st Century conventional and non-conventional security threats. Nuclear weapons were developed as aresult of the tragic experiences of World War II and of mutual suspicion and fears pervasive among the powers at the time. They have become obsolete.”
Nuclear weapons, WMD terrorism: “The mighty Soviet nuclear and conventional arsenals were not able to prevent the implosion of the Empire and the liberation of hundreds of millions of people and the reunification of Germany. And nuclear weapons are not going to be of much help in the on-going ethnic, religious and border disputes in Asia. We pray to God the Almighty and the Merciful that these weapons and others, chemical and biological, do not have ever fall into the hands of extremist non-state entities.”
Togo
H.E. Mr. Gilbert Fossoun Houngbo, Prime Minister
24 September 2010
Multilateralism: “The United Nations must remain at the heart of multilateralism.”
Tonga
H.E. Mr. Sonatane Taumoepeau-Tupou, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2010
Non-proliferation, nuclear weapon free zone: “Tonga welcomes the successful conclusion of the 2010 Review of the Non Proliferation Treaty (‘NPT’) and in particular the continuing acknowledgement of the concerns of SIDS over the safe transport of radioactive materials by sea and the announcement by the United States of its intention to pursue ratification of the Protocol(s) to the Treaty of Rarotonga.”
Trinidad and Tobago
H.E. Ms. Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
Small arms and light weapons, ammunition, non-proliferation, disarmament and development: “Another persistent matter which is receiving the attention of my government and other governments of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is the illegal proliferation of small arms and light weapons and their ammunition. In our attempts at addressing this problem, we have had to divert financial resources which otherwise could have been used for economic and social development. Additionally, we have observed an increase in gang-related violence, homicides, the illegal narcotics trade and organized crime. The origin of the illicit trade in these weapons is beyond our national borders, and is international in dimension. It therefore requires a global response.”
Arms trade treaty, small arms and light weapons: “We are encouraged by the attempts of the United Nations to conclude a legally binding agreement to regulate the trade in conventional weapons. It is our view that this instrument must also make provision for regulating the trade in small arms and light weapons thereby preventing their illegal diversion. Trinidad and Tobago also calls for a strong and effective implementation regime to ensure proper compliance with the provisions of the treaty. It must also include a proper verification mechanism and a sanctions regime for breach of its terms. These safeguards would assist in preserving the object and purpose of the agreement.”
“In the Caribbean, our weapons of mass destruction are small arms and light weapons. I implore all those States which have been reticent about the need for an ATT to join us in this undertaking. I pledge the commitment of my government to work with other like minded states, such as Australia to ensure a successful outcome of the Preparatory Committee ultimately, and the UN Conference on the Arms Trade Treaty scheduled to take place in 2012.”
Non-proliferation, nuclear weapons, chemical weapons: “We have partnered with other members of the international community to establish rules governing the non-proliferation of nuclear, chemical, and other types of weapons that could create untold suffering on humanity.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, gender, peace, security: “Ten years ago the Security Council adopted Resolution 1325 on women, peace, and security, acknowledging that there is no sustainable peace and security without the involvement and contribution of women. Trinidad and Tobago is committed to advancing the peace and security agenda of the UN. My country’s attachment to the promotion of women is equally strong. That is why I wish to announce that Trinidad and Tobago will introduce in the First Committee of the General Assembly devoted to disarmament, internal peace and security, a resolution on ‘women, disarmament, arms control and non proliferation’. I pledge the support of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago for this initiative.”
Tunisia
H.E. Mr. Kamel Morjane, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010
No relevant references.
Turkey
H.E. Mr. Abdullah Gül, President
23 September 2010
Nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, nuclear weapon free zones, weapons of mass destruction: “Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is one of the risks of our contemporary world. We cannot overcome this menace unless all member states, including nuclear ones, adopt a just and principled approach in their respective policies. Establishing a credible global non-proliferation regime would not be achievable, while ignoring de facto existence of nuclear weapons of certain countries at the heart of most delicate regions. In this context, I would like to call upon all member states to intensify their efforts in creating a ‘Weapons of Mass Destruction Free Zone in the Middle East’ as was envisaged by the UN Security Council Resolution 687 of 1991 and as also repeatedly called for by the General Assembly. We also support the calls at the New York NPT Review Conference of May 2010 for convening a conference on WMD Free Zone in the Middle East in 2012. I believe this initial step would be a sine qua non for all non-proliferation initiatives in the rest of the world.”
Military spending: “If we allocate a small fraction of our defense expenditures to the financing and establishment of this new capability [a Global Rapid Reaction Capability to effectively tackle natural and ecological disasters, food shortages and epidemics], we would have more cost efficient results in maintaining peace and stability in the world. Moreover, if we could pool some of our defense equipment that lost its effective utilization in military terms but are still relevant for disaster relief operations, we would swiftly build the said rapid reaction capability.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Our contributions to international efforts in the search for an urgent and peaceful settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue will also continue. Resolving this controversy can only be achieved in conformity with the IAEA norms and NPT obligations, respecting the right to peaceful use of nuclear energy. In this vein, the Tehran Declaration and the July gathering in Istanbul provide a window of opportunity to be seized. We believe there is no alternative to diplomacy.”
Multilateralism: “In responding to those security challenges, we should keep in mind that global problems cannot be solved unilaterally, bilaterally or in small circles of like-minded nations. Therefore, it is important today, more than ever, that we adopt a multilateral approach to global problems.”
“I wish to reiterate our view that the United Nations can and should play an even larger role in charting a better future for the humankind. It is up to us, Member States, to provide the United Nations with the necessary political support and the concrete tools so that it can fulfill that role. I can assure you that for its part, Turkey will continue to lend its full support and cooperation to this august body in our quest to leave a much safer, more prosperous, cleaner and healthier world to our children.”
Uganda
H.E. Mr. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President
24 September 2010
No relevant references.
Ukraine
H.E. Mr. Viktor Yanukovych, President
23 September 2010
Security, peace: “We all know that sustainable development is impossible without security, and security is impossible without sustainable development. Ukraine has always been an active contributor to peace and security worldwide. I believe that our contribution is beyond any doubt.”
Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation: “In 1994 we were the first in the world to voluntarily give up the third most powerful nuclear arsenal. Sixteen years have passed, but that decision of Ukraine has not lost its importance. In April of this year, Ukraine took a next step at the Washington Summit on Nuclear Safety by announcing its decision to get rid of all its stocks of highly enriched uranium.”
Nuclear weapons, security: “The experience of the recent decades shows that nuclear weapons do not always increase security. Moreover, the countries that try to acquire nuclear weapons may be exposed to the impact of new risks and become more vulnerable.”
Non-proliferation, nuclear disarmament, START: “The best way to counter proliferation of nuclear weapons is to achieve its gradual total elimination. We welcome the signing of a new START Treaty between the USA and Russia as well as further reduction of their national nuclear arsenals. Today there is also an urgent need for concrete steps to reduce the risks related to the proliferation of nuclear materials and technology. We encourage all the UN Member States to follow our example in the area of global nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation.”
Negative security assurances: “In view of those steps, Ukraine hopes to see our international partners unswervingly comply with their obligations with regard to the security guarantees for my country. I mean primarily the Budapest Memorandum of 1994. Ukraine insists that security guarantees for the states that have disposed of their nuclear arsenals and for the countries that do not belong to any military alliance should be reflected in a legally binding international instrument. This is the best way to ward off regional nuclear ambitions.”
Nuclear energy: “Against the backdrop of environmental, financial, economic and energy challenges, peaceful use of nuclear energy is becoming increasingly crucial. The states that possess nuclear technologies bear a huge responsibility to their own people, neighbors and all mankind. Next year the world will commemorate a sad date, the 25th anniversary of the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. That tragedy is still an open wound for us. Overcoming its consequences remains a serious challenge for the international community as the scale of the problems requires a coordinated effort involving all of our international partners. Ukraine plans to host a High-Level International Conference ‘Twenty-five years of the Chernobyl Disaster. Security for the Future’. We intend to hold it in Kiev, in April 2011, and with UN participation. The forum should assess progress in restoration and normalization of life in the affected regions and discuss nuclear safety issues.”
United Arab Emirates
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010
Disarmament, non-proliferation, nuclear weapons: “We would like to emphasize that the international community continues to face significant challenges that demand collective actions in all fields. These challenges include ... non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and disarmament.”
“While we reaffirm our commitment to the requirements of non-proliferation, we wish to express our satisfaction with the positive atmosphere that prevailed during the last Review Conference of the Parties to Non-proliferation Treaty, and the balanced and responsible recommendations issued by the conference.”
Nuclear weapon free zone, Israel’s nuclear programme, IAEA safeguards: “We reiterate our principled position which calls for making the Gulf Region and the Middle East a zone free of weapons of mass destruction, especially nuclear weapons. We also call for exerting pressure on Israel to implement the resolution adopted by Parties of the Treaty to join the NPT unconditionally, like all other States in the region, and subject its nuclear facilities to the comprehensive safeguards system of the IAEA.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “We urge the Islamic Republic of Iran to fully cooperate with the IAEA and the international community in order to allay regional and international fears and doubts raised on the nature of its nuclear program. We also call up on the respective parties to resolve the differences on Iran’s nuclear program through peaceful means.”
Nuclear terrorism: “We welcome the positive results of the conference on combating nuclear terrorism held in Washington. My country is an active member in the regional and international partnerships and efforts aimed at combating terrorism, including the global initiative for combating nuclear terrorism. We will continue our efforts to strengthen cooperation in the areas of intelligence exchange, capacity building, combating and drying up sources. Our efforts in this regard will continue until the world gets rid of this growing scourge.”
Nuclear energy: “The measures undertaken by the United Arab Emirates for building its program for the peaceful uses of nuclear energy in order to meet its growing energy requirements in the future, rely entirely on the highest standards of transparency, nuclear safety and non-proliferation, and carried out under the supervision of the IAEA in full cooperation with the agency and other friendly and responsible states with relevant experience in this field.”
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
H.E. Mr. Nicholas Clegg, Deputy Prime Minister
24 September 2010
Multilateralism: “All of us have to respond to a world that is profoundly altered. As a community of nations we face three profound challenges: a redrawing of the map of power, including a big shift in economic power; the globalisation of problems, not least terrorism and climate change; increasingly fluid forms of identity, and the rapid circulation and potency of new ideas. Taken together these mean that we are in a new world. All three demand matching responses. So we must; reform and renew our multilateral institutions in line with the changing map of power; strengthen our actions on international peacebuilding, climate change and development; promote liberal values and human rights to win the conflict of ideas.”
“The work of international institutions must continue to be guided by the values on which those institutions were founded: the rule of law – both domestic and international; the right to freedom of expression and belief; democracy; and equality before the law.”
Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation: “The prevention of nuclear weapons proliferation is another huge priority for the international community. The UK welcomes the success of the NPT Review Conference this May and I can assure the Assembly that we will continue to play our part in making the world safer from the threat of nuclear weapons.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “I was ready today to welcome the progress made in this week’s meeting of the E3+3 group on Iran. I was ready to also straightforwardly reiterate our concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme. But instead, once again, an issue of grave global concern has been overshadowed by the bizarre, offensive and attention-grabbing pronouncements by President Ahmedinejad from this podium yesterday. His remarks were intended to distract attention from Iran’s obligations and to generate media headlines. They deserve to do neither.”
United Republic of Tanzania
H.E. Mr. Mizengo Pinda, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
No relevant references.
United States of America
H.E. Mr. Barack Obama, President
23 September 2010
Non-proliferation, START, nuclear doctrines: “As we pursue the world’s most dangerous extremists, we are also denying them the world’s most dangerous weapons, and pursuing the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons. Earlier this year, 47 nations embraced a work-plan to secure all vulnerable nuclear materials within four years. We have joined with Russia to sign the most comprehensive arms control agreement in decades. We have reduced the role of nuclear weapons in our security strategy. And here, at the U.N., we came together to strengthen the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “As part of our efforts on non-proliferation, I offered the Islamic Republic of Iran an extended hand last year, and underscored that it has both rights and responsibilities as a member of the international community. I also said – in this hall – that Iran must be held accountable if it failed to meet those responsibilities. That is what we have done. Iran is the only party to the NPT that cannot demonstrate the peaceful intentions of its nuclear program, and those actions have consequences.”
“The United States and the international community seek a resolution to our differences with Iran, and the door remains open to diplomacy should Iran choose to walk through it. But the Iranian government must demonstrate a clear and credible commitment, and confirm to the world the peaceful intent of its nuclear program.”
Uruguay
H.E. Mr. Luis Leonardo Almagro, Minister of Foreign Affairs
29 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, WMD, disarmament: “We have decidedly furthered all measures aimed at the elimination of nuclear arms and other weapons of mass destruction.”
Conventional weapons, non-proliferation, disarmament: “We have also advocated the control and reduction of conventional weapons.”
Nuclear weapon free zone, disarmament, non-proliferation: “In its capacity as a member country of the Tlatelolco Treaty that has established Latin America and the Caribbean as the first nuclear weapon free zone in a densely populated area of the world, Uruguay has contributed to strengthening both the regional Tlatelolco Regime and the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, which is considered to be the cornerstone of the disarmament and nonproliferation regime. We underscore, once again, the importance of its prompt global application.”
Nuclear Weapon Convention, CTBT, fissile materials: “Likewise, and without prejudice to the reaffirmation of our aspiration to a Convention for the Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, we believe that the entry into force of the treaty for the total nuclear test ban and a treaty for the prohibition of the production of fissionable material during the present year, constitute decisive steps in the consolidation and deepening of the advances made in the area of disarmament. We must not stop, because to stop is to go backwards, and to go backwards is to expose humanity to the horrendous and inacceptable risk of nuclear holocaust.”
Nuclear weapon free zone: “Uruguay’s wish is that in 2012 a conference could be held in which all the states of the Middle East participate, with the goal of establishing a zone free of nuclear weapons and of all other weapons of mass destruction, through freely agreed arrangements between the states of the region, with the full support and commitment of those states that possess nuclear weapons.”
Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “Uruguay supports the United Nations Secretary General's five points initiative for a world free of nuclear weapons.”
Conventional weapons, Arms Trade Treaty: “On the subject of conventional weapons, Uruguay is a firm promoter of a legally binding agreement on arms trade, which establishes common international regulations for the import, export and transfer of this type of weapons, which are responsible for a great number of deaths every day, particularly in Latin America.”
Vanuatu
H.E. Mr. Edward Natapei, Prime Minister
27 September 2010
Small arms and light weapons: “I wish to inform the Assembly that the Pacific leaders again noted that transnational crime remains a threat to national and regional stability, in particular the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, and illicit drugs.”
Nuclear testing, nuclear weapons, non-proliferation, nuclear weapon free zone, peace, security: “While known as a region characterised by oceanic isolation, smallness and general vulnerability, the Pacific Region is only one of the few in the world to have experienced nuclear weapons testing. Advancing therefore the cause of nuclear non-proliferation, as well as the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty (also known as the Treaty of Rarotonga), remains critical and relevant to our signatory members States. The South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty reflects not only our region’s deep commitment to international peace and security, but also to collective international action to secure that state of peace and security.”
Nuclear weapon free zone, CTBT: “In welcoming the successful outcome of the 2010 Nuclear non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference, Forum Leaders also welcomed the announcement by the United States of its intention to ratify all Protocols to the Treaty of Rarotonga. Forum Leaders at their meeting last August encouraged all States to sign and ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban-Treaty (CTBT) as a practical step toward nuclear disarmament, and noted the practical value and potential of the CTBT verification system, including for earthquake and tsunami warning networks in the Pacific.”
Peace, security, multilateralism: “If we are to effectively guarantee human rights, and achieve peace and security, and social and economic justice for all, we need to be united in this endeavor, and our cooperation and multilateral joint efforts durable and effective.”
Multilateralism: “We have learnt that multilateralism offers some constructive innovations in diplomatic practice, but it may also complicate conflict resolution by accelerating tension between actors.”
Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)
H.E. Mr. Jorge Valero Briceño, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2010
No relevant references.
Yemen
H.E. Mr. Abubakr Al-Qirbi, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010
Israel's nuclear programme: “Israel also must accede to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and enter into talks with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to free the region from weapons of mass destruction.”
Zambia
H.E. Mr. Kalombo Mwansa, Minister of Defense
27 September 2010
Nuclear weapons, disarmament, nuclear weapon free zone, non-proliferation: “My delegation welcomes the positive developments that have occurred in the past one year in the area of arms control and disarmament. The security council's convening of a summit to address disarmament issues; the Secretary General's launch of a five point nuclear disarmament proposal; the entry into force of treaties establishing nuclear weapon free zones in central Asia and Africa, and the convening of a summit in Washington to discuss nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation among others, must be commended. We hope that these efforts and the momentum generated will be sustained and lead to the resolution of all outstanding issues in the area of disarmament.”
Small arms and light weapons, arms trade treaty: “Zambia, however, continues to face difficulties in controlling the inflow of small arms and light weapons (SALW). The illicit trade in SALW threatens security and retards social and economic development in our country. Zambia, therefore, calls for the establishment of a strong and legally binding international instrument on the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). It is in this regard that we strongly the convening of the United Nations Conference in 2012 to establish legally binding common international standards for the import export and transfer of conventional arms with specific measures against defaulters.”
Zimbabwe
H.E. Mr. Robert Mugabe, President
24 September 2010
No relevant references.
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