UNGA Disarmament Index 2013
The 68th General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly will be held from 24 September–1 October 2013. During the debate, Reaching Critical Will will extract all references made to arms control, disarmament, nuclear and conventional weapons, nuclear energy, the arms trade, and militarism.
WILPF's PeaceWomen project will be extracting all references to gender and women.
United Nations Secretary-General
H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon
24 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “There will be little peace or enjoyment of human rights unless we confront a world awash in deadly weapons. The past year saw the promising adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty, finally regulating the international transfer of conventional weapons.”
Nuclear weapons, small arms and light weapons: “But nuclear disarmament is languishing. Deadly weapons are proliferating. The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty is still not in force. And small arms continue to kill and maim.”
Chemical weapons, conventional weapons: “We have seen the worst chemical weapons attack on civilians in a quarter century.... The Syrian Government must fully and quickly honour the obligations it has assumed in acceding to the Chemical Weapons Convention. The international community must bring to justice the perpetrators of the use of chemical weapons in Syria - confirmed unequivocally by the UN Investigation Mission. The international community must also, with equal determination, ensure the safeguarding and destruction of Syria's chemical weapons stockpiles and programmes. But we can hardly be satisfied with destroying chemical weapons while the wider war is still destroying Syria. The vast majority of the killing and atrocities have been carried out with conventional weapons. I appeal to all States to stop fuelling the bloodshed and to end the arms flows to all parties. I look forward to the imminent adoption of an enforceable Security Council resolution on chemical weapons.... The response to the heinous use of chemical weapons has created diplomatic momentum - the first signs of unity in fat- too long.”
Militarism: “Military victory is an illusion. The only answer is a political settlement.”
“Meanwhile, at a time of pressing human need, spending on weapons remains absurdly high. Let us get our priorities right and invest in people instead of wasting billions on deadly weapons.”
President of the 68th General Assembly (opening remarks)
H.E. Ambassador John W. Ashe
24 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Now with clear awareness that the scourge of chemical warfare has been unleashed in Syria, we are as a community of nations confronted by a need to address this wrong.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “It was little more than five months ago, on April 2nd, that for the first time in the history of its engagement with conventional weapons, the General Assembly was able to adopt an Arms Trade Treaty regulating the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons. It is expected that this instrument – which has now been signed by 83 states, and ratified by four - will help significantly reduce the murderous and destabilizing effects of the proliferation of such weapons.”
Afghanistan
H.E. Mr. Zalmai Rassoul, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Albania
H.E. Mr. Edi Rama, Prime Minister
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “ The recent large-scale use of chemical weapons constitutes a despicable crime, a crime against humanity, which should no and must not remain unpunished. Yet even within such a bleak picture, a glimpse of hope has been born. The Security Council has finally adopted yesterday a resolution on the removal and destruction of chemical weapons in Syria, which we welcome. It must now be quickly and fully implemented.”
Algeria
H.E. Mr. Ramtane Lamamra, Minister of Foreign Affairs
26 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “Algeria reaffirms its rejection of the threat or use of weapons of mass destruction. In this regard, it condemns the use of chemical weapons and the perpetrators under whatever the circumstances in the Syrian conflict. In welcoming the initiative of Russia and the Russian-American agreement and that the Syrian accession to the Convention on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, Algeria calls for political dynamics leading to the convening of the Geneva Conference II and the achievement of a political solution between the Syrian parties. Algeria reiterates its encouragement and support for Lakhdar Brahimi in the conduct of its peace efforts.”
Andorra
H.E. Mr. Antoni Martí Petit
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “The use of chemical weapons against civil population, which we condemn and which is contrary to ail the values that this General Assembly stands for, places the international community in a scenario that requires fair and strong answers.”
Angola
H.E. Mr. Manuel Domingos Vicente, Vice-President
27 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Antigua and Barbuda
H.E. Mr. Winston Baldwin Spencer, Prime Minister
25 September 2013
Small arms: “Vulnerable developing societies such as ours are also victims to the globalization of crime; notably in the havoc wrought by handguns in the possession of criminal elements; narco-trafficking targeted, essentially, to markets in developed countries; and the deportation of criminals to our shores.”Arms Trade Treaty, small arms: “Antigua and Barbuda is proud to be among the growing number of states that have thus far signed and ratified the Arms Trade Treaty. This Treaty, would, among other things, assist Antigua and Barbuda in enhancing our capacity to tackle the scourge created by the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons and their ammunition, which is associated with other trans-boundary crimes, such as drug trafficking. We have emphasized throughout the whole process that these crimes have impacted negatively on the socio-economic well-being of our societies. Antigua and Barbuda stresses the importance of the early entry into force of the ATT and will continue to work with alacrity with member states to ensure its entry into force.”
Argentina
H.E. Mrs Cristina Fernandez, President
24 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Militarism: “Peace and security are not military concepts; they are political concepts ... That is why we appreciate that an agreement about the Syrian issue was made. We opposed to direct intervention, the bombing.”
Nuclear energy: “My country is a signatory of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. Argentina remains one of the Latin American countries with one of the largest nuclear developments. Nuclear development that is done only in the bases of development and peaceful uses. We sell nuclear generators to Egypt, Algeria and Australia. We also have nuclear energy aimed for medicinal purposes. We do not go condemning the use of nuclear energy for military while moving nuclear submarines in our conflict for the Maldives ... We have no double standards, we are not hypocrites…”
Chemical weapons, conventional weapons: “Argentina, I highlight, does not produce chemical weapons. Not even sells conventional weapons. It would be interesting to find out who is providing weapons to rebel groups fighting the government of Syria…We want to know who provides the weapons of those confronting the Syrian government. This does not mean at all that we are taking part by anyone; we are just asking things that are very logical and are now a real business, like the arms business. Because, My God, was it expected that 1 000 people die due to chemical weapons to discover that 150,000 died? Why was an arms embargo not declared two years ago to prevent so many deaths? Well, those questions should be answered by those who sell weapons; so we can not give answers on this subject as we do not sell them, although we imagine.”
Armenia
H.E. Mr. Edward Nalbandyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Armenia welcomes the resolution of the Security Council 2118 adopted unanimously yesterday based on the agreement reached in Geneva between Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov and US Secretary of State Kerry, which could lead to the elimination of chemical weapons and exclusion of their use in Syria and could pave the way to a political solution of the Syrian crisis, putting an end to the sufferings of the Syrian people.”
Conventional weapons: “We absolutely agree with the heads of the three Co-Chair countries, of the three permanent members of the Security Council, that the use of force will not resolve the conflict [between Armenia and Azerbaijan], and that only a negotiated settlement can lead to peace and stability. However, by the unprecedented accumulation of offensive weaponry in massive scale Azerbaijan seriously endangers regional and international security, despite its membership in the UN Security Council.”
Australia
H.E. Mrs. Julie Bishop, Foreign Minister
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Along with the rest of the world, Australia has condemned the horrific chemical weapons attack on 21 August, as we have condemned the Assad regime's use of conventional weapons against its own people. (..) So Australia, as current President of the Security Council, will co-sponsor the draft resolution before the Council that condemns in the strongest terms any use of chemical weapons. The resolution will make clear - for the first time - that the use of chemical weapons is a threat to international peace and security, and in doing so set a new international norm which will help to deter future use. And it says those responsible for using such weapons must be brought to justice - a call we strongly endorse. We welcome that this draft resolution sets out in no uncertain terms that the Assad regime must comply fully with the requirement to destroy its chemical weapons. The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons now needs strong international support for its role in the destruction of Syria's chemical weapons.”
Small arms: “We welcome the strong support the Security Council gave to Australia's resolution yesterday on small arms and light weapons. These weapons are a major driver of many conflicts that are brought to the attention of the Council.”
Disarmament, ATT: “And we continue to build on our record on security, disarmament and peacekeeping. As co-author, we worked to secure the adoption of the world's first Arms Trade Treaty, which has now been signed by the majority of the UN membership, with a further 18 signatories during the course of this week.”
Austria
H.E. Mr. Heinz Fischer, President
24 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We were deeply shocked by the use of chemical weapons in Syria.”“While we welcome the agreement reached between the United States and the Russian Federation on a framework for the destruction of the Syrian chemical weapons arsenal, we believe that the Security Council should refer the situation in Syria to the International Criminal Court. Accountability is necessary to stop the atrocities and prevent future crimes.”Arms Trade Treaty: “Multilateral cooperation can deliver solutions to global problems. The historic accomplishment of the Arms Trade Treaty was an important sign in this regard. We look forward to its earliest possible entry into force.”Disarmament, non-proliferation: “At the same time, the international disarmament and non-proliferation regime is being challenged day by day through alarming developments.”DPRK nuclear programme: “We observe North Korea's continued development of nuclear weapons and missile capabilities.”Iran’s nuclear programme: “And we have new hope that the Iranian nuclear issue will be resolved by negotiations which, after the election of a new Iranian President, should be resumed shortly.”Nuclear weapons: “Similarly, the continued reliance on nuclear weapons and the limited progress towards nuclear disarmament are of great global concern. Nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation efforts can only be achieved together. Nuclear weapons should be stigmatized, banned and eliminated. The humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons have to be put at the center of our attention.”
Azerbaijan
H.E. Mr. Elmar Maharram oglu Mammadyarov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We welcome the adoption yesterday of Security Council resolution 2118 (2013) regarding the safeguarding and destruction of Syria's chemical weapons stockpiles. Azerbaijan strongly condemns the use of chemical weapons in Syria, particularly the killing of civilians that resulted from it. Resolution 2118 (2013) affirmed that the use of chemical weapons constitutes a serious violation of international law and also qualified such act as a threat to international peace and security.”
Bahamas (The)
H.E. Mr. Perry Gladstone Christie
28 September 2013
Small arms: “Another problem that is of special concern to us is the continuing influx of guns, and the increase in gun-related criminality, not only in The Bahamas but throughout the region.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “The Bahamas has this year signed the Arms Trade Treaty and we encourage all states that have not already done so to sign this Treaty as well. And to those countries that produce the guns that end up taking innocent lives and causing terror in our communities, we implore them to become more proactive in controlling the export of guns. We implore them to step up the policing of their own borders against arms traffickers.”
Bahrain
H.E. Mr. Sheikh Khalid Bin Ahmed Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
Nuclear weapons, WMD: “In this context, we are keen to reach our principal goal of sparing humanity from the scourges of war, conflicts and disasters. We therefore call for the establishment of a zone free of weapons of mass destruction, notably nuclear weapons, in the Middle East, including the Arabian Gulf region and compliance with the criteria and safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency, especially as regards nuclear safety. From this perspective, we support the efforts of the P5+1 group with the Islamic Republic of Iran to reach a swift solution to the Iranian nuclear program issue in accordance with the provisions of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of the Nuclear Weapons, while guaranteeing the right guaranteed to all states for the enjoyment of the fruits of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. We reiterate here the necessity of convening the international conference on establishing a nuclear-free zone in the Middle East which had initially been foreseen to be held in 2012 in accordance with the resolution of Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference of May 2010.”
Chemical weapons: “Desirous of seeing stability restored in the Syrian Arab Republic, and cognizant of the right of the Syrian people to choose their own political system, the GCC countries welcome diplomatic steps towards destroying the Syrian chemical arsenal, the agreement reached by the United States and Russia, as well as Security Council resolution 2118 (2013) of September 27, 2013, which calls on all parties concerned to take serious and concrete steps to address the Syrian crisis and its repercussions (with particular emphasis operative paragraphs 16 and 17) related to the transitional period and implementation of the Geneva Communique.”
Bangladesh
H.E. Mrs. Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister
27 September 2013
Disarmament, non-proliferation, CTBT, landmines, ATT, CCW: “Our commitment to global peace is … reflected by our position on disarmament and the non-proliferation agenda. During my first term as the Prime Minister from 1996 to 2001, Bangladesh became the first among South Asian nations to ratify the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty and the Anti- Personnel Mine Ban Treaty. In the current term, I am happy to be again first in the region to he sign the Arms Trade Treaty, and accede to the remaining CCW instruments in this year's Treaty Signing Event. Our role on world affairs is based on justice and democratic values,which assures international peace and security, and supports disarmament.”
Barbados
H.E. Mrs. Maxine Pamela Ometa McClean, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
Small arms: “In Barbados, and the Caribbean, illicit small arms and light weapons are the weapons of mass destruction. Primarily linked to international drug trafficking and other transnational organised crime, the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons in the Caribbean exacts a heavy toll on state and citizen security and impairs national development.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “For this reason, Barbados, and CARICOM, consistently argued for the elaboration of a robust, legally-binding ATT, which would set the highest common international standards for regulating the transfer of conventional arms. Barbados is pleased therefore to be amongst those Member States which have signed the Arms Trade Treaty. It is our hope that the implementation of the Treaty will lead to a reduction in the flow of illicit small arms, light weapons, their ammunition, parts and components, thus contributing to the reduction in armed conflict and violence.”
Chemical weapons: “The findings of the UN Inspection Team that chemical weapons were used in Syria are alarming. My country believes that the perpetrators of these acts must be brought to account. Moreover we believe that the international community must work in good faith to find a political solution to the escalating and ongoing humanitarian crisis in Syria.”
Belarus
H.E. Mr. Vladimir Makei, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Belgium
H.E. Mr. Elio Di Rupo, Prime Minister
26 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “It is in my country, in Ypres, Belgium, during the First World War, that chemical weapons were used for the first time in a conflict. We always have in mind the terrible suffering of thousands of soldiers. Nearly 100 years later, it is this suffering which now strikes thousands of Syrians. Despite the international protocol of 1925, which prohibits the use of chemical weapons. From Ypres to Damascus, History of the World is a common history.”
Belize
H.E. Mr. Wilfred P. Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
Chemical and biological weapons: “The situation in the Middle East troubles us. As responsible citizens of the world we condemn the use of chemical weapons and we welcome the framework agreement led by Russia and the United States of America and supported by the Security Council that should lead to the removal of all chemical and biological weapons from Syria. indeed, we call on other nations to abide by the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction.”
Benin
H.E. Mr. Nassirou Bako Arifari, Minister of Foreign Affairs
26 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Arms Trade Treaty: “We need to strengthen the authority of international regulatory regimes and advance disarmament as paralysis carries big risks for humanity. In this respect, there is reason to welcome the conclusion of the Treaty on Arms Trade.”
Chemical weapons:“We must constantly work to strengthen the ramparts of peace, without which any development would be a fruitless endeavor with regard to the destruction that follows and the disputes over their violations. I want them as prove of the atrocities that occur here and there, and sometimes at such an appalling scale as in Syria recently with the use of prohibited chemical weapons that we condemn in the strongest terms.”
Bhutan
H.E. Mr. Lyonpo Rinzin Dorje, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Bolivia
H.E. Mr. Evo Morales Ayma, President
25 September 2013
Chemical weapons, nuclear weapons: “In Syria, we disagree with the use of chemical weapons and weapons of mass destruction. But who has the greatest nuclear arsenal? Who invented chemical weapons? Who industrialised chemical weapons?”
Outer space: “We’ve seen the colonialisation of outer space.”
Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Mr. Zeljko Komšić, President
24 September 2013
Nuclear weapons: “In spite of visible obstacles of the last decade, new initiatives give new momentum to the process of disarmament and anti-proliferation. Bosnia and Herzegovina believes that nuclear disarmament can be achieved by encouraging member states that joined the Treaty to respect their obligations specified in the Non Proliferation Treaty.”“Bosnia and Herzegovina believes that it is necessary to take tangible steps to prevent nuclearproliferation in the world.”Arms Trade Treaty: “Bosnia and Herzegovina will sign the Arms Trade Treaty during the Arms Treaty Event.”
Botswana
H.E. Mr. Phandu T. C. Skelemani, Minister of Foreign Affairs
1 October 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “Botswana welcomes the adoption earlier this year, of the long overdue Arms Trade Treaty. The Treaty establishes common international standards for the regulation of international trade in conventional arms, ammunition, parts and components for the purpose of contributing to international peace and security. In this regard, I am delighted to report that arrangements are underway to facilitate the signing and ratification of this vital instrument in the very near future.”
Brazil
H.E. Mrs. Dilma Rousseff, President
24 Sepember 2013
Chemical weapons, conventional weapons: “We must cease the use of arms - conventional or chemical, by the government or the rebels. There is no military outcome. The only solution is through negotiation, dialogue and understanding. The decision of Syria to adhere to the Chemical Weapons Convention and to immediately apply its provisions is of great importance. This measure is instrumental to overcome the conflict and to contribute to a world free of those arms. Their use, I repeat, is heinous and inadmissible under any circumstances. For this reason, we support the agreement reached between the United States and Russia for elimination of Syrian chemical weapons.”
Brunei Darussalam
His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-muhtadee Billah
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “ We join the international community in condemning the use of chemical weapons, which has caused the loss of lives in the country. In this regard, we welcome the US - Russia Framework for the Elimination of Syrian Chemical Weapons and the recent adoption of the UN Security Council resolution on Syria.”
Bulgaria
H.E. Mr. Rossen Plevneliev, President
24 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “Bulgaria welcomes the successful adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty regulating international trade in conventional weapons and looks forward to its prompt entry into force. We hope that this new international instrument will very soon become an effective tool in limiting the illicit arms flow to conflict zones, thus consolidating peace and security.”
Chemical weapons: “Bulgaria strongly condemns the chemical attack of August 21 that took the lives of thousands of innocent people including children. The use of chemical weapons in Syria constitutes a blatant violation of international law, a war crime, and a crime against humanity.
“There is strong evidence to substantiate the assertion that the Syrian regime is responsible for these attacks, as it is the only party that possesses chemical weapons agents and means of their delivery for an attack of that scale.
“There can be no impunity, and the perpetrators of this heinous attack must be held accountable. Bulgaria, who is one of the countries that signed a letter urging the UN Security Council to immediately refer the situation in Syria to the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, joins similar calls, coming from the UN Secretary General and the High Commissioner for Human Rights.
“My country welcomes the Framework agreement between the United States and the Russian Federation to place Syria's chemical weapons arsenal under international control with a view to its swift and secure destruction, and joins them in demanding that the Syrian regime provide the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons with immediate access to inspect any and all sites in Syria. We call on the UN Security Council to unite and shoulder its relevant responsibilities under the Charter.
“The use of chemical weapons should not divert attention from the persisting gross violations of human rights and continued human suffering. To the contrary, the created momentum should be used to move towards a lasting political solution to the conflict through the resumption of the Geneva process and with the active involvement of the United Nations.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “We expect that Iran will demonstrate a clear political will and address the concerns of the international community by providing credible evidence of the peaceful nature of its nuclear programme. In this respect, Iran's full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency is of paramount importance. The government in Tehran must show greater transparency in its nuclear activities and should fully comply with all relevant Security Council resolutions.”
Burkina Faso
Mr. Blaise Compaore, President
25 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “We encourage the implementation of the Russian and American treaty from the 14 of September, on control and disarmament of chemical weapons.”
Burundi
H.E. Mr. Laurent Kavakure, Minister of Foreign Affairs
26 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Cambodia
H.E. Sea Kosal, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
1 October 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “Currently, the global and regional peace and security are being threatened by conflicts, armed confrontation and transnational organized crimes which take a heavy toll on many development efforts. Against this backdrop, Cambodia welcomes the signing of the Arms Trade Treaty, the first ever international treaty to regulate the trade of conventional weapons. This Treaty would be an effective deterrent against excessive and destabilizing arms flows, particularly in conflict-prone regions. Cambodia will soon add itself to the current list of 84 signatories and urges other nations to join them and together push for the required 50 ratifications and implementation of the Treaty so that it could make a real difference in people's lives.”
Nuclear weapons: “At the regional level, Cambodia underscores the importance of preserving the Southeast Asian region as a Nuclear-Weapon-Free-Zone and free of all other weapons of mass destruction as enshrined in the Treaty of Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) and the ASEAN Charter. Along with other nine ASEAN Member States, Cambodia continues to encourage the Nuclear Weapon States (NWS) to sign the Protocol to accede to the SEANWFZ Treaty, without reservations, as early as possible. We also encouraged the NWS to provide full support for the ASEAN-sponsored UN General Assembly Resolution on the SEANWFZ Treaty at the this 68th Session.”
Landmines: “The presence of landmines and other explosive remnants of war (ERW) in the soil continues to pose constant threats to human security and safety and hinders national development to some of the ASEAN Member States. Recognizing this serious threat to human security, ASEAN Leaders decided in Phnom Perth, in November 2012, to establish the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) to be based in Cambodia. Since early this year, ASEAN has been working on the modalities of ARMAC and planned to finalize these modalities by October of this year.”
Chemical weapons: “In regard to the Syria situation, we condemn in the strongest terms the use of chemical weapons and all human rights violations in Syria. Cambodia welcome the Resolution 2118 (2013) adopted by the Security Council on 27 September 2013 to destroy Syria's chemical weapons. We support the ongoing efforts of the international community, notably the United Nations, to promote a peaceful and viable solution to the situation in the country.”
Cameroon
H.E. Mr. Pierre Moukoko Mbonjo, Minister of Foreign Affairs
25 September 2013
No relevant comments.
H.E. Mr. Pierre Moukoko Mbonjo, Minister of Foreign Affairs - See more at: http://gadebate.un.org/68/cameroon#sthash.TzzrhWhz.dpuf
Canada
H.E. Mr. John Baird, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We support the Syrian people, the innocent people caught up in this senseless violence, and those who work on their behalf. We will never support a brutal and illegitimate regime that has unleashed weapons of mass destruction on its own people. Nor will we tolerate extremism and terrorism as alternatives to Assad's tyranny.”
“But let us not confuse a peaceful, negotiated outcome with equivocation or moral uncertainty. There can be no moral ambiguity about the use of chemical weapons on civilians.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “The P5+1 [the five permanent members of the UN Security Council and Germany] has had five rounds of formal negotiations with Iran in the past two years. While everyone says the meetings have been "productive," the fact remains we haven't seen any change in Iran's actions. Next year, nothing would make Canada more pleased than to see a change in Iran's nuclear ambitions. A change to its terrible human rights record. And an end to Iran's material support for terrorism. Now is the time for the global community to maintain tough sanctions against Iran in order that it take a different path on its nuclear program.”
Cape Verde
H.E. Mr. Jose Maria Neves, Prime Minister
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “One more comment to all for us to position ourselves, following the United Nations Experts Report, against the criminal and unacceptable use of chemical weapons in Syria, which we have followed with great attention. We welcome the progress made towards dialogue, particularly the joint search for peaceful solutions, especially at the United Nations.Incidentally, we are against the use of weapons of mass destruction and we will continue to align with subsequent initiatives towards their eradication.”
Central African Republic
H.E. Mr. Nicolas Tiangaye, Prime Minister
26 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “The drama that the Syrian people are facing for more than two years is a challenge to the international community. The use of chemical weapons against the civilian population must be strongly condemned. That is why my country supports the ongoing activities for the decommissioning of the chemical arsenal 'Syria in the diplomatic option favoring the resolution of this crisis.”
Arms trade/proliferation: “Exogenous causes are rooted in the collateral effects of the crisis in Darfur, Libya, along with the Sudan conflict that led to the independence of South Sudan, the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the residual aggregates of the old Chadian rebellion and terrorist actions of the LRA of Joseph Kony in the extreme south of the country. These disorders promote the circulation of a large flow of weapons of any caliber whose combined effects weigh heavily on the security and humanitarian situation in the Central African Republic, causing serious human rights massacres of civilians abductions, mass executions, mass rape, widespread looting, arson of private homes, public buildings and attics not to mention the desecration of places of worship, the degradation of natural resources and wildlife.”
“The proliferation of weapons in Bangui, the deterioration of the humanitarian situation and the social climate are likely to jeopardize the success of the transition. Given the avalanche of problems, the Government of National Unity Transition must set priorities with regard to security, humanitarian, budgetary and policy.”
Chad
H.E. Mr. Idriss Deby Itno, President
25 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “Regarding the situation in Syria, it concerns and calls on us all, as the hour is particularly grave. We do not have the right to let a people walk into destruction. The use of chemical weapons which notes a dramatic escalation of this civil war in this country is an affront to is an affront to human conscience and the ideals that led to the birth of our Organization.
“While welcoming the agreement reached between the United States and Russia on the destruction of Syrian chemical weapons, my country wants the perpetrators of these crimes to be identified and brought before an international tribunal. However, our bitterness is great to see destroy Syria and Syrians kill. The international community must use all means to stop this tragedy.”
Chile
H.E. Mr. Sebastián Piñera Echeñique, President
24 September 2013
Nuclear weapons, WMD, chemical weapons: “In this connection, we reiterate our appeal not only to end the proliferation of nuclear arms and weapons of mass destruction but also to dismantle those which exist, and we strongly condemn the use of the chemical weapons in Syria, as well as the indiscriminate use of force against the civilian population which has to date produced thousands of innocent victims, including women and children, and caused a serious humanitarian crisis wounding the universal conscience and seriously threatening peace and international security. We therefore welcome and strongly support the Framework Agreement for the Elimination of Chemical Weapons in Syria, concluded recently by the United States and Russia, as well as the efforts made by the Secretary-General of this Organization and the special envoy of the United Nations and the Arab League to reach a peaceful and lasting solution to this very serious armed conflict as soon as possible.”
China
H.E. Mr. Wang Yi, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Turmoil in Syria has lasted for nearly three years, causing great suffering and trauma to both the Syrian people and Syria's neighbors. The recent use of chemical weapons has met universal condemnation. China firmly opposes the use of chemical weapons. We hope to see an early adoption of a UN Security Council resolution to support the OPCW in launching the verification and destruction of chemical weapons and we stand ready to make financial contribution to the OPCW for the destruction of chemical weapons in Syria. China calls for an immediate end to hostilities and violence in Syria so as to create necessary conditions for the verification and destruction of chemical weapons.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “On the Iranian nuclear issue, China has been working to promote a peaceful settlement through dialogue. We have played a constructive role in seeking a comprehensive, lasting and appropriate solution to the Iranian nuclear issue so as to uphold the international non-proliferation regime and peace and stability in the Middle East.”
DPRK’s nuclear programme: “It is China's consistent position that a negotiated solution through dialogue is the right way to solve the nuclear issue on the Peninsula, and the Six-Party Talks are an effective platform to promote denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula.”
Colombia
H.E. Mr. Juan Manuel Santos Calderón, President
24 September 2013
H.E. Mr. Juan Manuel Santos Calderón
H.E. Mr. Juan Manuel Santos CalderónPresident24 September 2013
Landmines: “And we would have to add the injured, the people mutilated by antipersonnel landmines, those who have suffered the infamy of kidnapping and those forcefully displaced from their own land, which could amount to nearly 5 million people.”
Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC)
H.E. Mr. Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cuba
26 September 2013
Nuclear weapons: “At the recently held High Level Meeting on Nuclear Disarmament CELAC reiterated our deep concern about the threat posed to humanity by the continued existence of nuclear weapons and their possible use or threat of use, and the urgent need to advance towards the attainment of the priority objective of nuclear disarmament and the achievement of a total and absolute elimination of nuclear weapons.”
Comoros (The)
Dr. Ikililou Dhoinine, President
25 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “We strongly condemn the usage of chemical weapons in Syria, against innocent people.”
Congo (The Republic of)
His Excellency Mr Basile Ikouebé, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “Turning to the situation in Syria, my delegation condemns the use of chemical weapons and we welcome that the Syrian government is subscribing the convention on prohibition of chemical weapons and to put its stockpile of chemical weapons under international control for eventual destruction…. When Syria agrees to eliminate its stockpile of chemical weapons it is timely to recall one of the gravest threats to humanity, the nuclear threat…. It is urgent to progress towards a real disarmament on all chemical weapons.”
Costa Rica
H.E. Mrs. Laura Chinchilla-Miranda, President
24 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “On April 2nd, we conclusively ratified the Arms Trade Treaty, a vital step for our country and a victory for humanity. I am pleased to report its unanimous ratification by our Legislative Assembly and pledge our support towards its implementation.”Chemical weapons: “I raise our voice to demand that the Security Council act decisively to eliminate chemical weaponry in Syria, restrain violence, seek a negotiated and democratic solution to the conflict, and make accountable those responsible for the horrible crimes committed there.”Nuclear weapons: “Next Thursday, for the first time in the history of the Organization, we will engage in a high-level debate on nuclear disarmament. We hope it will allow us to get closer to an ideal prayed for by most of the countries, and to advance in new conceptual frameworks for discussion. The sessions of the Open- Ended Working Group, conducted under the effective chairmanship of our permanent representative in Geneva, Manuel Dengo, have opened a promising path.”Conventional weapons: “Under the same line, it is necessary to increase international cooperation to reduce the illegal flows of weapons and money that feed the criminal networks.”
Côte d’Ivoire
H.E. Mr. Alassane Ouattara, President
25 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]Conventional weapons: “Too many wars and conflicts continue to rip apart humanity and undermine development efforts in many countries. We must collectively put end to this, emphasizing only the interests of the people. ... It is by renewing foundations of solidarity that we will address new threats such as that of terrorism, border crime, drug trafficking and of weapons, trafficking in human beings humans, maritime piracy.”
Croatia
H.E. Mr. Ivo Josipović, President
26 September 2013
Small arms and light weapons, Arms Trade Treaty: “Croatia is also very concerned about the issue of uncontrolled spread of small arms and light weapons (SALW) and their excessive accumulation. We believe that these weapons present a great risk for the stability and security of many weak and fragile areas around the world. A milestone in this area is the successful completion and opening for signature of the international Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), a uniquely drafted document establishing rules and criteria for trade in conventional arms. Croatia: as an original signatory state would like to add its voice to those requesting Urgent and universal adherence to this treaty and its expedited entry into force.”
WMD: “In the area of security, we consider prevention of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, especially to non-state actors, to be a global security priority. Croatia believes that successful non-proliferation is possible only through a combination of diligent work at the national level and the widest possible international cooperation. We firmly believe that adherence to multilateral non-proliferation treaties, as well as participation in informal non-proliferation initiatives, are an indispensable part of non-proliferation efforts. The most recent events in Syria are a horrible reminder and warning how important it is that all international agreements on non-proliferation are universally complied with.”
Chemical weapons: “Croatia condemns 'in the strongest terms the use of chemical weapons. The international community must make sure that there is no impunity for such crimes and that the perpetrators of these and other crimes be held to account.”
Cyprus
H.E. Mr. Nicos Anastasiades, President
26 September 2013
WMD: “Having in mind the aim of promoting the fundamental UN principles, I would like to share with you my deep concern of what is happening in various parts of the world, threatening the sovereignty of states, as well as regional and global stability, through, amongst others: Acts of state violence; Acts of terrorism; Infringement and calling into question sovereign rights enjoyed by states; Annexation of territories through illegal use of force; Production and use of weapons of mass destruction; Sponsoring and harboring of secessionist or terrorist movements; Religious fundamentalism manifested through terrorist attacks…”
“The positive and stabilising role that Cyprus can assume in the Eastern Mediterranean, especially in the areas of combatting terrorism, fighting the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and providing humanitarian assistance, has in the past few months received extensive recognition.”
Czech Republic
H.E. Mr. Jiří Rusnok, Prime Minister
27 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “The Czech Republic highly appreciates that the international community was finally able to complete the negotiations of the Arms Trade Treaty.”
Chemical weapons: “The confirmed use of chemical weapons in Syria is deeply worrying. Any use of chemical weapons is unacceptable. Whoever gave the order to initiate the chemical attack has gravely violated the principle of responsibility to protect the civilian population.”
“The Czech Republic welcomes the decision of the Executive Council of the GPCW on the expeditious destruction of the Syrian chemical weapons, which is now being adopted in the Hague, and looks forward to the adoption of the UN Security Council resolution on this issue in the next hours.”
Nuclear weapons: “The danger of a nuclear conflict is diminishing thanks to the decreasing number of nuclear warheads and carriers in the possession of the nuclear powers. Yet the currently blocked negotiations with the Non Proliferation Treaty Parties should be a matter of concern.”
“The longstanding objective of a complete elimination of nuclear weapons may be achieved only if the non-proliferation regime meets all demands for its strengthening.”
Nuclear energy: “The Czech Republic as a non-nuclear weapon state has always strongly advocated for the right to develop, research and use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes without discrimination. Nevertheless, this right should be fully exercised only in conjunction with honouring all non- proliferation obligations.”
Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. Pak Kil Yon, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2013
Non-proliferation: “High-handedness and arbitrariness are getting ever more rampant in international relations. Infringement of sovereignty, interference into internal affairs and regime change continue to go unabated under the pretexts of "non-proliferation" and "human rights protection", for which the UN organization is being abused.”
Nuclear weapons: “It is the unanimous demand of the international society to completely eliminate all nuclear weapons and to build a nuclear weapon free world through nuclear disarmament. As agreed upon at the high-level meeting on nuclear disarmament held during the current session on the initiative of the NAM, nuclear disarmament negotiations should commence without further delay to work on universal instruments legally codifying the negative security assurances and the prohibition of use of nuclear weapons, among others.”
Democratic Republic of the Congo
H.E. Mr. Joseph Kabila Kabange, President
25 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Denmark
H.E. Ambassador Mr Ib Petersen,
Permanent Representative of Denmark to the United Nations
Chemical weapons: “Denmark strongly condemns all use of chemical weapons, and we are convinced that a strong international reaction is required. It is crucial that those responsible for this grave violation of international law will be brought to justice and that future use of chemical weapons is effectively prevented. From the very outset of the tragedy in Syria, Denmark has emphasized the need for a political solution to end the human suffering. We welcome the adoption by the Security Council of Resolution 2118 on the destruction of Syria's chemical weapons. Denmark continues to strongly support the efforts towards a Geneva II conference.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “Unregulated and irresponsible international trade in arms has had devastating effects. Earlier this year, the General Assembly made history by adopting the Arms Trade Treaty. Denmark supports the swift entry into force and effective implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty. Denmark is committed to assisting States, on their request, to meet their obligations under the Arms Trade Treaty.”
Iran and DPRK nuclear programmes: “We once again call upon Iran and DPRK to comply with international law and relevant Security Council resolutions. We welcome all efforts to resolve the issue of Iran's nuclear program.”
Dominica
H.E. Mr. Vince Henderson, Permanent Representative to the UN
1 October 2013
Chemical weapons: “The ongoing civil war in Syria continues to present a major challenge to the international community. The Commonwealth of Dominica joins CARICOM in condemning unreservedly the use of chemical weapons which is a gross violation of international law.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “On April 2, 2013, the Commonwealth of Dominica was one of the overwhelming number of member states voting in favor ofthe first international treaty to regulate the trade of conventional weapons, the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). Today we are pleased that the ATT is now a reality.”
Dominican Republic
H.E. Mr. Jose Manuel Trullols, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2013
No relevant comments.
Ecuador
H.E. Mr. Xavier Lasso Mendoza, Permanent Representative to the UN
1 October 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “My country rejects the violence that exists in Syria, as well as serious violations of international law and human rights, from whatever quarter. Ecuador has argued from the beginning, that the military solution is not a solution to the crisis in Syria. We must address head-on and constant armed conflict, putting aside any manipulation because it seeks only foreign interests, oblivious. Let materialize to surface solutions framed in international law. In this context, the situation in Syria, the Millennial Nation facing terrible times, deserves our attention neat and sincere, as hundreds of thousands of lives are lost and thousands more face constant danger.
“Ecuador welcomes the recent accession of Syria to the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction. Ecuador expects the final results of investigations of the UN on all, but all, complaints about the use of chemical weapons in Syria, as only these results will allow the international community have an adequate picture, large, and much more believable.
“Ecuador joined the consensus for the adoption of the decision on chemical weapons in the Syrian Arab Republic, considering that it reflects the efforts of the international community in favor of preserving peace, defend life of citizens and move towards a political solution to the crisis.”
“As States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention, we condemn any use of them in the Syrian Arab Republic, by either party, and reiterate the obligation of states to refrain from providing any military support to non-state actors.”
Egypt
H.E. Mr. Nabil Fahmy, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “In Syria, the tragedy has reached the point of resorting to chemical weapons. We condemn their use. We view with interest the agreement reached between Russia and the United States in light of our belief in the necessity of addressing the broader context of the crisis in Syria.”
Nuclear weapons, WMD: “You might agree with us that a new Middle East will not come about without ensuring the right to equal security, and getting rid of the threats posed by the existence in our region of nuclear weapons, and weapons of mass destruction. This situation threatens the credibility of the non-proliferation regime, as well as that of the United Nations.
“For that reason, and to preserve this credibility, I announce before you today an initiative consisting of the following steps:
“First: Invite all countries of the Middle East, as well as the five permanent members of the Security Council, to deposit official letters to the Secretary General of the United Nations, stating their support for declaring the Middle East a region free from weapons of mass destruction, as well as from nuclear, chemical and biological weapons.
“Second: The countries of the region that have not signed, or ratified, any of the international conventions on weapons of mass destruction, should commit, before the end of this year, to simultaneously sign and ratify the relevant conventions. They should also deposit a proof of that to the Security Council. I invite the Secretary General of the United Nations to coordinate the above steps to ensure their success.
“This translates into the following:
- That Israel accedes to the Non-Proliferation Treaty as a non-nuclear state, ratifies the Chemical Weapons convention, and signs and ratifies the Biological Weapons Convention.
- That Syria ratifies the Biological Weapons Convention, and takes the remaining steps it had pledged in relation to the Chemical Weapons Convention.
- That Egypt ratifies the Biological Weapons Convention, and signs and ratifies the Chemical Weapons Convention, provided that all countries of the Middle East complete accession measures to the international conventions prohibiting weapons of mass destruction, and the related arrangements.
“Third: Pursue international efforts to ensure that the delayed 2012 Conference to establish a weapons of mass destruction free zone in the middle east is swiftly held, preferably before the end of this year, and by Spring 2014, at the latest. The Secretary General, the three depositary countries of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, as weil as the facilitator should redouble their efforts so that the conference is held within the above timeframe.”
Nuclear weapons: “As I conclude, I would like to highlight our priority issues within the United Nations System. They include: … realizing nuclear disarmament.”
El Salvador
H.E. Mr. Carlos Mauricio Funes Cartagena, President
25 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “We condemn the use of chemical weapons and support the agreement between Russia and the United States, under the United Nations supervision, to destroy these chemical weapons.”
Equatorial Guinea
H.E. Mr. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo
26 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “With relation to the situation in Syria, we regret and condemn the use of chemical weapons and the escalation of violence fed opaque interests who are decimating a people for alleged internal problems.”
“All scenarios in the World Wars have always left a negative balance and the victims are usually always the innocent population, that is the reason why we ask for an immediate cessation and withdrawal of those countries involved in this conflict, to honor and respect the Syrian people and the responsibility of wings UN in maintaining peace and security in the world. The only intervention should be the pacification and the destruction of chemical weapons that the United Nations must demand of the Syrian Government.”
Eritrea
H.E. Mr. Osman Saleh Mohammed, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Estonia
H.E. Mr. Toomas Hendrik Ilves, President
25 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “Every year, over half a million people die as a result of illegal or irresponsible arms transfers. Enormous amounts of money and resources are spent on arms, often at the expense of more vital needs. We see the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty in the framework of the United Nations in June as a historic milestone for the world community.”Chemical weapons: “Let me start with what is clearly and without a doubt the most unsustainable situation in the world at the moment: the conflict in Syria. It has been repeated thousands of times and must be repeated over and over again that the use of chemical weapons is unacceptable under any circumstances and requires complete and unreserved condemnation. It is clear that chemical weapons must be destroyed quickly and verifiably. Therefore the OPCW and Security Council needs to move forward and agree on the legally binding terms to resolve this issue, preferably under Chapter 7 of the Charter, and so as soon as possible.
“Even without the use of chemical weapons, military actions and brutality in Syria have created suffering and humanitarian disaster of unimaginable proportions.”
Ethiopia
H.E. Mr. Hailemariam Dessalegn, Prime Minister
25 September 2013
No relevant comments.
European Union
H.E. Mr. Herman Van Rompuy, President
25 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Any further paralysis of the international community over Syria is simply untenable. It was already true this summer, but worse was yet to come… Five weeks ago, in the outskirts of Damascus, a new threshold of tragedy, a crime against humanity; and in response the stakes were raised. Today we are in a new situation. The European Union welcomes the diplomatic opening created in order to control and destroy Syria's chemical weapons. It is important in itself: we absolutely must avoid a dreadful precedent being set on the use of chemical weapons - an abhorrent crime against humanity.
“The role of the United Nations in this respect is indispensable, and has been underscored time and again by the 28 governments of the European Union. After the UN Secretary General's report and the inventory of its arsenal provided by the Syrian regime, it is urgent for the Security Council, together
with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, to take the necessary decisions to ensure the swift and secure destruction of Syria's poison gas and nerve agents stocks. A clear resolution by the Security Council would mark a turn, and I plea for its adoption.
“Eliminating Syria's chemical arsenal is in itself a major step. Potentially it could also be important for the wider dynamics in the region. Clearly, the conflict wrecking Syria reflects many of the deep-seated tensions rippling throughout the Middle East. It is fed by these tensions, and fuels them as well. So a solution for Syria will need to take into account the wider picture. That is why any political opening matters deeply: a breakthrough on chemical weapons could start opening other doors. In the black wall of Syria's doom, it will be a first crack. Paradoxically, there is more scope for quiet hope today than even a few weeks ago. Because if commitments can be upheld and promises kept on chemical weapons, lines of communication can reopen, if we can find an agreement within the international community (and at the Security Council)… if we can do all this on chemical weapons, then chances are we can do it elsewhere.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “We also hope the expectations currently building around the new Iranian leadership will translate into concrete steps. In the interest of regional stability. And for the nuclear talks, where all efforts to find a negotiated solution, through the work of the "E3+3" led by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton, have the European Union's full support.”
Fiji
H.E. Mr. Commodore Josaia V. Bainimarama, Prime Minister
25 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Finland
H.E. Mr. Erkki Tuomioja, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “The use of chemical weapons on August 21st near Damascus can be a turning point for the conflict. The universal condemnation of their use as a war crime for which those responsible must be brought to justice through referral to the International Criminal Court. Finland welcomes the agreement reached on a strongly worded Security Council resolution to collect and destroy chemical weapons in Syria under international control.”
Nuclear weapons, WMD: “Efforts to promote peace and security in the Middle East should go parallel with the pursuit of a long-time goal of the establishment of a zone free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction. I encourage all regional parties to continue to engage constructively with the facilitator and the four conveners as well as with each other to pave the way for a conference on the establishment of such a zone.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “All our failures and disappointments notwithstanding there has also been one true success story for the United Nations this year. I am referring to the Arms Trade Treaty, which was adopted in April after decades of efforts. It was a success not only for the United Nations system, but for the whole international community and the arms control regime. The importance of this Treaty has been confirmed by the growing number of signatures after the 3rd of June when the ATT was open for signature. We hope and expect that the signature by the United States of the ATT will be followed by all the other permanent members of the Security Council as well. I would also like to congratulate those countries that have already now ratified the Treaty paving the way for its early entry into force. My own country, Finland, is well on its way of ratifying the ATT as soon as possible. Only when the treaty enters into force and is implemented will it make a real difference in saving lives, minimizing human suffering, lessening criminality and threat to civilian population by providing highest common standards to trade in arms, ammunition and components. I would like to once again thank and congratulate the NGO community for its dedication and tireless efforts in favor of the ATT. They never lost their faith and pushed the governments hard to achieve this result.
“Our work is not done yet. Together we must continue to get the 50 ratifications and more to support the ATT. We also need to persuade those countries which abstained in the vote to supporting regulated arms trade and the treaty to make it truly universal. Finland, as one of the seven co-authors, has been from the beginning and will be in the future very much involved in the Arms Trade Treaty. This week the co-authors organized a high-level event to promote signatures for the ATT. We are also prepared to assist countries which have difficulties in ratifying and implementing the Treaty. When implemented the Treaty should have a major impact also on development particularly in the least developed countries, where conflicts are a major obstacle to development.”
France
H.E. Mr. François Hollande, President
24 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “On the 21st of August in Damascus, the worst has been achieved with the use chemical weapons against civilians, women and children. The UN inspectors have established this securely and unquestionably. France wanted a strong reaction to respond to this despicable crime, and to deter the regime of Bashar al-Assad from committing new massacres. This pressure has produced initial results.”Iran’s nuclear programme: “The statements by the new Iranian president also mark evolution. His words must now be translated into action. On the nuclear issue, discussions stalled last decade. Their failure has led the international community to impose sanctions which are harmful to the economy and the Iranian population. This situation is dangerous. What France expects from Iran are concrete actions that show that this country gives up its program for nuclear weapons although obviously it has the right to continue a civilian [nuclear] program. That is why I made the choice of a direct dialogue with President Rohani.”
Gabon
H.E. Mr. Ali Bongo Ondimba, President
24 September 2013
Small arms: “Africa should be able to meet the new threats to peace and security, that include transnational crime, the illicit trafficking of small arms.”Arms Trade Treaty: “We must ensure the implementation of the ATT.”
Chemical weapons: “The crisis in Syria, has already caused many victims, and we have seen an escalation of the unacceptable use of chemical weapons. We strongly condemn the use of such weapons, and Gabon calls for the deconstruction of all chemical weapon arsenals throughout the world.”
Gambia (The)
H.E. Mr. Yahya Jammeh, President
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “All that we hear is the talk about chemical weapons and the need to ensure that they are not used by anyone. This does not make any sense as long as this barbaric war has not cometo an end immediately. Whether chemical weapons are used or not thousands of people would continue to die, in the most horrific manner, it is the same horrific and senseless death and our duty is not to choose what form of death is acceptable and what not. Our duty is to stop the senseless and barbaric killings in Syria. We as the UN must end this war immediately otherwise the people of Syria would continue to perish at the hands of these satanic barbaric forces. The UN Security Council and all the powers behind the war in Syria must not only prevent the use of chemical weapons but must also bring this brutal war to an immediate end without preconditions. The Syria war must be stopped and stopped now!”
WMD, militarism: “Coming to the second threat - obsession with world domination; we have seen the unprecedented development of deadly nuclear, biological and chemical weapons as well as other weapons of mass murder by the same western powers. We all agree that all forms of human tragedy and catastrophe emanate from the same West; they spend more money on killer technologies than on medical and agricultural technology up to this day. If they unleash a third world war, that would put an end to human existence on planet earth including this UN itself.”
Georgia
H.E. Mr. Mikheil Saakashvili, President
25 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Germany
H.E. Mr. Guido Westerwelle, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “ The use of chemical weapons, ascertained by the United Nations, is a crime against civilisation. Its terrible dimensions have consequences extending far beyond Syria. All the facts available to us show that the regime is responsible for the use of the chemical weapons. The use of chemical weapons cannot be allowed to go unpunished. This we owe not only to the victims in Syria, but also to future generations. Those responsible for using these weapons must be called to account before the International Criminal Court. It must at last be able to begin its independent investigations. We welcome the agreement reached in the Security Council and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in The Hague. These weapons must be completely destroyed in accordance with a firmly agreed timetable. Germany is prepared to provide financial and technical help to destroy these chemical weapons. A world without weapons of mass destruction will be a better world. We must use the opportunities for a political process offered by the agreement on destroying the chemical weapons.”
Disarmament, non-proliferation, WMD: “The tragedy in Syria underlines the extraordinary importance accruing to the disarmament of weapons of mass destruction and the strengthening of the non-proliferation regimes. A world free of weapons of mass destruction is our generation's prime task for the future. Disarmament is a crucial issue for the future of humanity.”
Ghana
H.E. Mr. John Dramani Mahama, President
26 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Greece
H.E. Mr. Evangelos Venzelos, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Greece and the EU have unequivocally condemned the use of chemical weapons, and we strongly support the U.S.-Russian initiative for the collection and destruction of Syria's chemical arsenal.”
“We welcome the diplomatic breakthrough expected to be achieved by the Security Council on the destruction of Syria's chemical weapons.”
Grenada
H.E. Mr. Nickolas Steele, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Grenada condemns, in the most vehement terms, atrocities and crimes against humanity. As such, we believe that those responsible for the recent deadly use of chemical weapons in Syria must be held accountable by the international community. Moreover, Grenada welcomes the Security Council Resolution to destroy Syria's chemical weapons and is encouraged by the commitment of the Syrian government to comply with the resolution. More importantly, my delegation hopes that this breakthrough could be a stepping stone to the resolution of the already brutal and bloody civil war in Syria, which has been fuelled by conventional weapons.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “On June 3, 2013, Grenada joined 83 States in signing the Arms Trade Treaty, on the very first morning the Treaty was opened for signature. Work is already under way at the national level for the ratification of the Treaty as yet another signal of Grenada's commitment to peace and security. Moreover, being the first country ever to accede to the Convention on Cluster Munitions, Grenada intends to use its experience to raise awareness on this particular matter, especially in the Americas.”
Guatemala
H.E. Mr. Otto Fernando Pérez Molina, President
26 September 2013
Small arms and light weapons: “Prevention must be prioritized, seeking to lower the impact on health and especially reducing the level of social violence associated with the drug problem. In the same vein, international cooperation should be strengthened to reduce the flow of illegal arms and funds that finance criminal networks.”
Chemical weapons, nuclear weapons: “As non-permanent member of the Security Council we have taken a position towards the recent crisis in Syria. In this regards, we have condemned the massacre against more than one thousand persons murdered with the use of chemical weapons and have demanded that a crime of this magnitude cannot remain with impunity. We have also called for a categorical response of the international community to avoid that these deplorable acts be repeated. Consistent with this position, we have supported the leadership of President Obama, who has clearly expressed that peace in Syria and in the whole Middle East must be built in the framework of a political and diplomatic dialogue, but without abandoning our international responsibility to protect the citizens of those countries and of the world posed by the threat of nuclear and chemical arms.”
Guinea
H.E. Mr. François Lounceny Fall, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “Guinea condemns the use of chemical weapons, which is contrary to international standards and human dignity. Intensive efforts must be undertaken to destroy chemical weapons in Syria, in accordance with the Russian-American initiative. Similarly, the legal framework prohibiting the manufacture, storage and use of chemical weapons, should be strengthened.”
Guinea-Bissau
H.E. Mr. Manuel Serifo Nhamadjo, Interim President
26 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Guyana
H.E Mr. Donald R. Ramotar, President
25 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “ We welcome the agreement between Russia and the United States which will facilitate the destruction of chemical weapons held in Syria. We call on all countries that possess such weapons to do the same.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “ ...the adoption in April of this year of the landmark Arms Trade Treaty opens the door to effective regulation of the international trade in conventional arms. For us in the Caribbean, the Treaty bears relevance not only to the safety and security of our citizens and to the fight against transnational crime but in an important way to our overall pursuit of sustainable development. The
funnelling of guns into our societies is a menace that must be curbed in order to preserve our youth and our future. As one of the first countries to ratify the Treaty, Guyana urges all states to work to assure its early entry into force.”
Susan Shaer, Executive Director, Women’s Action for New Directions, United States Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE
Haiti
H.E. Mr. Laurent Salvador Lamothe, Prime Minister
26 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Holy See
H.E. Mr. Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, Secretary for Relations with States
1 October 2013
No relevant comments.
Honduras
H.E. Mrs. María Antonieta de Bográn, Vice President
27 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Hungary
H.E. Mr. János Martonyi, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
Disarmament, non-proliferation: “Hungary is committed to disarmament and non-proliferation efforts that are fundamental for maintaining global peace and security.”
Chemical weapons: “We urge all countries to ratify the Chemical Weapons Convention.”
WMD: “We also support the establishment of a WMD free zone in the Middle East as foreseen by the last Review Conference of the Non-Proliferation Treaty in 2010.”
Nuclear security: “My country was greatly honored to chair the International Atomic Energy Agency's International Conference on Nuclear Security in July and sincerely hope that the results of this conference will contribute to a safer world,”
CTBT: “On the CTBT, I am confident that its entry into force will greatly strengthen global peace and security. Only a Treaty in force will confine the chapter of nuclear testing to history books. We therefore need to further intensify our respective efforts. With my fellow Article XIV coordinator H.E. Marty Natalegawa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Indonesia, we will make an attempt to bring us closer to that goal. l look forward to our co-ordinatorship of the CTBT for the period between 2013-2015 with a view to accelerating the ratification process.”Chemical weapons, biological weapons: “The use of chemical weapons in Syria was a crime against humanity. The international community has finally embarked on action to ensure that similar attacks would never ever be repeated. We welcome the U.S.-Russian Agreement on the Framework for Elimination of Syrian Chemical Weapons, as well as the consequent resolutions by the OPCW's Executive Council and the UN Security Council. Hungary is ready to provide chemical and biological experts on the ground to facilitate these international efforts. We urge the Syrian authorities to take full responsibility to ensure that their chemical weapons are stored securely until inspection and destruction and do not fall into the hands of any other State or non-state actor.”
Iceland
H.E. Mr. Gunnar Bragi Sveinsson, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “It is the primary responsibility of all Governments to protect their citizens. A few weeks ago, the world witnessed the use of chemical weapons in Syria. It is hard to find words strong
enough to express our condemnation. International law has been broken, war crimes committed and globally agreed values have been shattered. Those responsible must be held accountable and should answer to the International Criminal Court.”
“We welcome the adoption of Security Council Resolution 2118 and calI on the Council to ensure that Syria fully meets its commitments. The Geneva communique from last year must also be honoured and a Geneva II conference convened urgently.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “Sorne of the greatest achievements of the United Nations are in the field of international law. Within these walls, the history of international relations continues to be written and brave new steps to be taken. The latest accomplishment is the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty. Iceland is proud to be the first State to ratify this landmark Treaty. We call on all States - in particular arrns exporters - to do so as well, so that it enters into force without delay.”
Nuclear energy: “Climate change and disasters like the one in Fukushima have furthermore taught us that a real energy transformation is needed. Safe, clean and renewable energy is the way of the future.”
India
H.E. Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “The use of chemical weapons, whosoever may have deployed them, must be condemned in the strongest terms. India supports strongly the elimination of chemical weapons material and equipment in Syria.”Nuclear weapons: This year, 25 years after Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi put forward a comprehensive Action Plan for a Nuclear Weapon-free and Nonviolent World Order, we must strengthen efforts against nuclear proliferation and pursue time-bound, universal, non-discriminatory, phased and verifiable nuclear disarmament. We must also guard against terrorists and non-state actors gaining access to sensitive materials and technologies.”
Indonesia (the Republic of)
H.E. Mr. Marty Natalegawa, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “The recent breakthrough on the issue of chemical weapons in Syria is clear evidence that diplomacy works.”Nuclear weapons, CTBT: “Revival of the long stalled nuclear disarmament agenda is also key. In particular, as Co-Presidents of Article 14 Conference on CTBT, we call for the early entry into force of the Treaty.”
Iran (Islamic Republic of)
H.E. Dr. Hassan Rouhani, President
24 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “While condemning any use of chemical weapons, we welcome Syria's acceptance of the Chemical Weapons Convention, and believe that the access by extremist terrorist groups to such weapons is the greatest danger to the region that must be considered in any disarmament plan.”
Drones: “Terrorism and the killing of innocent people represent the ultimate inhumanity of extremism and violence. Terrorism is a violent scourge and knows no country or national borders. But, the violence and extreme actions such as the use of drones against innocent people in the name of combating terrorism should also be condemned. Here, I should also say a word about the criminal assassination of Iranian nuclear scientists. For what crimes have they been assassinated? The United Nations and the Security Council should answer the question: have the perpetrators been condemned?”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Iran seeks to resolve problems, not to create them. There is no issue or dossier that cannot be resolved through reliance on hope and prudent moderation, mutual respect, and rejection of violence and extremism. Iran's nuclear dossier is a case in point. As clearly stated by the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, acceptance of the inalienable right of Iran constitutes the best and the easiest way of resolving this issue. This is not political rhetoric. Rather, it is based on a profound recognition of the state of technology in Iran, global political environment, the end of the era of zero-sum games, and the imperative of seeking common objectives and interests towards reaching common understanding and shared security. Put otherwise, Iran and other actors should pursue two common objectives as two mutually inseparable parts of a political solution for the nuclear dossier of Iran.
“1- Iran's nuclear program - and for that matter, that of all other countries - must pursue exclusively peaceful purposes. I declare here, openly and unambiguously, that, notwithstanding the positions of others, this has been, and will always be, the objective of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Nuclear weapon and other weapons of mass destruction have no place in Iran's security and defense doctrine, and contradict our fundamental religious and ethical convictions. Our national interests make it imperative that we remove any and all reasonable concerns about Iran's peaceful nuclear program.
“2- The second objective, that is, acceptance of and respect for the implementation of the right to enrichment inside Iran and enjoyment of other related nuclear rights, provides the only path towards achieving the first objective. Nuclear knowledge in Iran has been domesticated now and the nuclear technology, inclusive of emichment, has already reached industrial scale. It is, therefore, an illusion, and extremely unrealistic, to presume that the peaceful nature of the nuclear program of Iran could be ensured through impeding the program via illegitimate pressures.”
Militarism: “At this sensitive juncture in the history global relations, the age of zero-sum games is over, even though a few actors still tend to rely on archaic and deeply ineffective ways and means to preserve their old superiority and domination. Militarism and the recourse to violent and military means to subjugate others are failed examples of the perpetuation of old ways in new circumstances.”
“Coercive economic and military policies and practices geared to the maintenance and preservation of old superiorities and dominations have been pursued in a conceptual mindset that negates peace, security, human dignity, and exalted human ideals. Ignoring differences between societies and globalizing Western values as universal ones represent another manifestation of this conceptual mindset. Yet another reflection of the same cognitive model is the persistence of Cold War mentality and bi-polar division of the world into ‘superior us’ and ‘inferior others.’ Fanning fear and phobia around the emergence of new actors on the world scene is another.”
“Securing peace and democracy and ensuring the legitimate rights of all countries in the world, including in the Middle East, cannot - and will not - be realized through militarism.”
“In recent years, a dominant voice has been repeatedly heard: ‘The military option is on the table.’ Against the backdrop of this illegal and ineffective contention, let me say loud and clear that ‘peace is within reach.’ So, in the name of the Islamic Republic of Iran I propose, as a starting step, the consideration by the United Nations of the project: ‘the World Against Violence and Extremism’ (WAVE). Let us all join this ‘WAVE.’ I invite all states, international organizations and civil institutions to undertake a new effort to guide the world in this direction. We should start thinking about ‘Coalition for Enduring Peace’ all across the globe instead of the ineffective ‘Coalitions for War’ in various parts of the world.”
Iraq
H.E. Dr. Khudheir Al-Khuzaie, Vice President
27 September 2013
Nuclear weapons, WMD: “For the sake of a Middle East living in peace and security, we reiterate the call for the establishment of a Middle East free of nuclear weapons, with emphasis on the need to hold the Helsinki Conference on the establishment of this region as soon as possible, because the failure of international efforts in this area will adversely affect the credibility of the NPT nuclear proliferation, which could lead to an arms race which increases the frequency of tension and instability.”
Ireland
H.E. Mr. Eamon Gilmore, Deputy Prime Minister
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Every day, the peoples of the world - whom we are privileged to represent here at the General Assembly of the United Nations -look on in helpless horror at the slaughter in Syria. They can see gassed children lined out, dead, on their television screens.”“The utterly callous attack in Ghouta on 21 August marked a new low in the endless litany of horrors. From the very outset, Ireland has consistently argued that the United Nations and the Security Council must be central to any efforts to resolve this crisis and ensure that international law and basic human rights are upheld. And while it has taken much longer than we would all have wished, I welcome thedecisive action the Security Council has now taken on Syria. The Resolution marks a watershed in the international community's engagement on the crisis. It offers renewed hope and confidence that the UN is capable of discharging its responsibilities and meeting the aspirations and expectations of the peoples of the world. The Security Council Resolution builds on the vital breakthrough achieved by the UnitedStates and Russia in agreeing a framework for the complete elimination of Syria's chemical weapons. Full compliance by the Syrian regime with its obligations is imperative. Ireland has already pledged €200,000 in funding to support the vital role of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, assisted by the UN, in implementing these arrangements.”“The Security Council has expressed its conviction that there must also be accountability for what has occurred in Syria. The International Criminal Court exists precisely for this purpose. We owe it to the Syrian people to ensure that those responsible for the war crimes committed against them are brought to justice.”Iran’s nuclear programme: “We are also encouraged by the stated determination of the new Iranian government to address the concerns of the international community and build confidence in the exclusively peaceful nature of its nuclear programme. We look forward to Iran’s serious engagement in meaningful negotiations leading to full compliance with all of its international obligations and hope that this will also contribute to the creation of a positive dynamic in the Middle East region.”
Israel
H.E. Mr. Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister
1 October 2013
Chemical weapons: “Yet Iran directly participates in Assad’s murder and massacre of tens of thousands of innocent men, women, and children in Syria, and that regime is propping up a Syrian regime that just used chemical weapons against its own people.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Today, our hope for the future is challenged by a nuclear-armed Iran that seeks our destruction.”“A nuclear-armed Iran would have a chokehold on the world's main energy supplies. It would trigger nuclear proliferation throughout the Middle East, turning the most unstable part of the planet into a nuclear tinderbox. And for the first time in history, it would make the specter of nuclear terrorism a clear and present danger.”“A nuclear-armed Iran in the Middle East wouldn't be another North Korea. It would be another 50 North Koreas!”“Why would a country that claims to only want peaceful nuclear energy, why would such a country build hidden underground enrichment facilities? Why would a country with vast natural energy reserves invest billions in developing nuclear energy? Why would a country intent on merely civilian nuclear programs continue to defy multiple Security Council resolutions and incur the costs of crippling sanctions on its economy? And why would a country with a peaceful nuclear program develop intercontinental ballistic missiles whose sole purpose is to deliver nuclear warheads?”
“Iran is not building a peaceful nuclear program. Iran is developing nuclear weapons.”
“Last year alone, Iran enriched three tons of uranium to 3.5%, doubled its stockpile of 20% enriched uranium, and added thousands of new centrifuges, including advanced centrifuges. It also continued work on the heavy water reactor in Arak. That's in order to have another route to the bomb – a plutonium path.”“Underground nuclear facilities? Heavy water reactors? Advanced centrifuges? ICBM's? It's not that it's hard to find evidence that Iran has a nuclear weapons program. It's hard to find evidence that Iran doesn’t have a nuclear weapons program. Last year when I spoke here at the UN, I drew a red line. Iran has been very careful not to cross that line. But Iran is positioning itself to race across that line in the future at a time of its choosing. Iran wants to be in a position to rush forward to build nuclear bombs before the international community can detect it, much less prevent it.”“I have argued for many years, including on this podium, that the only way to peacefully prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons is to combine tough sanctions with a credible military threat. And that policy is today bearing fruit. Thanks to the effort of many countries, many represented here, and under the leadership of the United States, tough sanctions have taken a big bite out of Iran's economy. Oil revenues have fallen. The currency has plummeted. Banks are hard pressed to transfer money.”“For those who you who don't know, the Isfahan facility is an indispensable part of Iran's nuclear weapons program. That's where uranium ore called yellowcake is converted into an enrichable form. Rouhani boasted, and I quote: "By creating a calm environment, we were able to complete the work in Isfahan."”“He fooled the world once. Now he thinks he can fool it again. You see, Rouhani thinks he can have his yellowcake and eat it too.”“Well, the only diplomatic solution that would work is one that fully dismantles Iran's nuclear weapons program and prevents it from having one in the future. President Obama rightly said that Iran's conciliatory words must be matched by transparent, verifiable and meaningful action, and to be meaningful, a diplomatic solution would require Iran to do four things. First, cease all uranium enrichment. This is called for by several Security Council resolutions. Second, remove from its territory the stockpiles of enriched uranium. Third, dismantle the infrastructure for a nuclear breakout capability, including the underground facility near Qom and the advanced centrifuges in Natanz. And four, stop all work at the heavy water reactor in Arak aimed at the production of plutonium.”
“These steps would put an end to Iran's nuclear weapons program and eliminate its breakout capability. There are those who would readily agree to leave Iran with a residual capability to enrich uranium. I advise them to pay close attention to what Rouhani said in a speech to Iran's Supreme Cultural Revolutionary Council. This was published in 2005: "A country that can enrich uranium to about 3.5% will also have the capability to enrich it to about 90%. Having fuel cycle capability virtually means that a country that possesses this capability is able to produce nuclear weapons. Precisely. This is precisely why Iran's nuclear weapons program must be fully and verifiably dismantled. And this is why the pressure on Iran must continue.”
“So here's what the international community must do. First, keep up the sanctions. If Iran advances its nuclear weapons program during negotiations, strengthen the sanctions. Second, don't agree to a partial deal. A partial deal would lift international sanctions that have taken years to put in place in exchange for cosmetic concessions that will take only weeks for Iran to reverse. Third, lift the sanctions only when Iran fully dismantles its nuclear weapons program.”
“The international community has Iran on the ropes. If you want to knockout Iran's nuclear weapons program peacefully, don't let up the pressure. Keep it up.” “Three decades ago, President Ronald Reagan famously advised: Trust but verify. When it comes to Iran's nuclear weapons program, here's my advice: Distrust, Dismantle, and Verify.” “Israel will never acquiesce to nuclear arms in the hands of a rogue regime that repeatedly promises to wipe us off the map. Against such a threat, Israel will have no choice but to defend itself. I want there to be no confusion on this point: Israel will not allow Iran to get nuclear weapons. If Israel is forced to stand alone, Israel will stand alone. Yet in standing alone, Israel will know that we will be defending many, many others. The dangers of a nuclear-armed Iran and the emergence of other threats in our region have led many of our Arab neighbors to finally recognize that Israel is not their enemy. This affords us the opportunity to overcome historic animosities and build new relationships, new friendships, new hopes. Israel welcomes engagement with the wider Arab world. We hope that our common interests and common challenges will help us forge a more peaceful future.”
DPRK’s nuclear programme: “And he (President Rouhani of Iran) has another reason to believe that he can get away with this, and that reason is called North Korea. Like Iran, North Korea also said its nuclear program was for peaceful purposes. Like Iran, North Korea also offered meaningless concessions and empty promises in return for sanctions relief. In 2005, North Korea agreed to a deal that was celebrated the world over by many well-meaning people. Here is what the New York Times editorial had to say about it: "For years now, foreign policy insiders have pointed to North Korea as the ultimate nightmare... a closed, hostile and paranoid dictatorship with an aggressive nuclear weapons program.”
“And yet North Korea agreed in principle this week to dismantle its nuclear weapons program, return to the NPT, abide by the treaty's safeguards and admit international inspectors.... Diplomacy, it seems, does work after all." End quote. Ladies and Gentlemen, A year later, North Korea exploded its first nuclear weapons device.”
“Yet as dangerous as a nuclear-armed North Korea is, it pales in comparison to the danger of a nuclear-armed Iran.”
Italy
H.E. Mr. Enrico Letta, Prime Minister
25 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Italy is inviting all the members of the Security Council and other relevant international stakeholders to spare no effort in the search for political solutions. This is why the Italian Government welcomed the Geneva Framework for Elimination of Syrian Chemical Weapons. We strongly support the work undertaken in the Security Council toward getting Syria to participate in the Chemical Weapons Convention.”Arms Trade Treaty: “Italy is engaged in international initiatives related to peace and security, such as the Arms Trade Treaty, which we speedily ratified, one of the first signatories to do so.”
Jamaica
H.E. Mrs. Portia Simpson Miller
28 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “To this end, we welcome the recent opening for signature of the landmark Arms Trade Treaty in June of this year which represents one of many steps that the international community must take towards defeating terrorism, crime and violence. Jamaica is currently undertaking efforts towards ratification of the Arms Trade Treaty.”
Japan
H.E. Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister
26 September 2013
Nuclear weapons: “Japan, as a county that understands the horror and devastation wrought by atomicbombs, will utterly devote itself to nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, and the total elimination of nuclear weapons.” DPRK’s nuclear programme: “North Korea's nuclear and missile development cannot be condoned. Japan also maintains serious concerns with regard to other weapons of mass destruction that North Korea is likely to possess.”
Jordan
His Majesty King Abdullah II Bin Al Hussein, King
24 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “It is time to fast-track a political transition in Syria: to end the violence and bloodshed, neutralise the threat of chemical weapons, restore security and stability, preserve the unity of Syria and its territorial integrity, and engage all, all, its people in building their country's future.”
Kazakhstan
H.E. Mr. Erlan A. Idrissov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Kazakhstan strongly condemns the use of chemical weapons in Syria as confirmed by the findings of an independent investigation by the UN Mission and regards it as a crime against humanity.”
“We support the adoption of a UN Security Council resolution on Syria that would stipulate strict compliance to a concerted decision on the elimination of chemical weapons in this country and the conduct of regular inspections of this process.”
“We express our hope that the accession of Syria to the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction as well as placement of such weapons under international control will preclude the possibility of their repeated use and contribute towards the end of a longstanding and bloody conflict in Syria.”
Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation, disarmament, nuclear energy: “We believe that the Non-Proliferation Treaty, which remains the cornerstone of the non- proliferation regime, must reach full universalization with strict implementation of national obligations in accordance with the three fundamental pillars of the Treaty: non-proliferation; the peaceful use of nuclear energy; and disarmament, in a balanced way. We call on all countries outside of the NPT, possessing nuclear weapons, to sign the Treaty, and for State Parties not to withdraw.
CTBT: “The entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty should become an important catalyst of the non-proliferation process and the effective implementation of the NPT. We urge those countries that have not yet done so, to sign and ratify this important instrument. The General Assembly resolution, initiated by Kazakhstan, instituting 29 August as the International Day against Nuclear Tests, matches the goals and objectives for the entry into force of the CTBT.”
Nuclear weapons: “The current situation of the nuclear disarmament process also does not encourage confidence in a more peaceful future. While we participated actively in yesterday's High Level Meeting, we once again stress from the podium of the General Assembly that our country has a special moral authority to champion the cause of nuclear abolition. By closing the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site soon after our independence in 1991 and renouncing the fourth largest nuclear arsenal, Kazakhstan has made a unique contribution in the multilateral effort to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “We support the immediate political and diplomatic settlement of the situation around the Iranian nuclear programme on the basis of strict compliance with the provisions of the NPT and the IAEA regulations.”
Nuclear weapons: “To take further decisive actions to eliminate the nuclear threat, President Nursultan Nazarbayev of the Republic of Kazakhstan has proposed the adoption of a Universal Declaration for a Nuclear Weapon Free World, which will be an important step towards a Nuclear Weapons Convention, and thereby achieving a nuclear-weapon-free world. We count on the Member States to finalize and submit a draft resolution to the General Assembly.”
“The Treaty on the Establishment of a Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons in Central Asia (CANWFZ), which came into force in March 2009, is an important contribution of the Central Asian countries to international and regional security. It is the first nuclear-weapon-free zone established in the northem hemisphere and sharing common borders with two major nuclear powers, as weIl as the first such zone where nuclear weapons had previously existed. Kazakhstan welcomes the willingness of the P5 countries to hold a dialogue on the Additional Protocol and to provide the negative assurances in the nearest future.”
“Kazakhstan supports the early convening of the Conference on the establishment of a Middle East zone free of weapons of mass destruction, under the aegis of the UN until the end of 20l3, and calls upon all States in the region to actively cooperate to make this important deliberation possible.”
Iran's nuclear programme: “In order to ensure continuation of the dialogue between the group of international mediators and Iran, Kazakhstan hosted two rounds of negotiations in Almaty in 2013. Specific agreements have yet to be reached, but we are confident that a mutually acceptable outcome impossible. We believe that concrete actions by Iran to ensure the transparency of its nuclear program will advance the settlement o f the problem rather than relying on sanctions alone.”
DPRK’s nuclear programme: “We express our grave concern about the situation of North Korea's nuclear program. Attempts to deal with the secret development of nuclear weapons in violation of international obligations carmot be justified by any circumstances, At the sarne time, Kazakhstan is against a military solution o f the problem, since we are convinced that only the peaceful settlement of the crisis, within the framework of the six party talks, can ensure peace and stability in Northeast Asia.”
Kiribati
H.E. Mr. Anote Tong, President
25 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Kuwait
H.E. Mr. Sheikh Jaber Al Mubarak Al Hamad Al Sabah, Prime Minister
25 September 2013
Iran’s nuclear programme: “At the same regional level, concerning Iran's nuclear program, the State of Kuwait supports the ongoing efforts to peacefully resolve this issue, in a manner a that will preserve the right of the Islamic Republic of Iran and all the countries in the region, to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes under the supervision and monitoring of the International Atomic Energy Agency. We also call upon the Islamic Republic of Iran to cooperate fully with international efforts and work on implementing the relevant Security Council resolutions, and to cooperate also with the I.A.E.A. and implement its resolutions to escape this crisis, which had cast it shadow for many years on this region, and gave rise to doubts and created an atmosphere of instability and tension.”
Kyrgyzstan
H.E Mr. Erlan Abdyldaev, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We support the initiative of the transfer of Syrian chemical weapons with its subsequent destruction under the international supervision, and the joining of Syria to the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction.”
Lao People’s Democratic Republic (The)
H.E. Mr. Thongloun Sisoulith, Vice Prime Minister
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “...the Lao PDR welcomes the agreement reached by Russia and the United States on Syria's chemical weapons.”
Latvia
H.E. Mr. Andris Bērziņš, President
24 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “The detailed report by the UN inspectors confirms the use of chemical weapons against civilians on August 21st. Those who committed war crimes and crimes against humanity in Syria must face the International Criminal Court. The agreement reached by the United States and Russia on the framework to eliminate Syria's chemical weapons should be reflected in a UN Security Council resolution, with a clear indication that the Chapter Seven of the UN Charter would be invoked in case of non-compliance.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “We encourage the new Iranian leadership to address the concerns of the international community. We welcome the new Iranian government's stated determination to resolve the nuclear issue, thus building confidence in the peaceful nature of its nuclear program.”
Lebanon
H.E. General Michel Sleiman, President
24 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Lebanon has already condemned the use of chemicals weapons[in Syria], and it has called on the United Nations, including the Security Council, to assume solely the duty of holding the perpetrators accountable. The last American-Russian agreement about the weapons may be an introduction to the desired comprehensive peaceful solution. This solution would stop the bloodshed and prevent extremism from reaching out to neighboring countries, and seriously undermining international relations.”
Lesotho
H.E. Mr. Motsoahae Thomas Thabane, Prime Minister
26 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Of particular concern to my delegation is the situation in Syria which poses a serious and growing threat to international peace and security. Scores of civilians continue to be the chief victims. Women and children and the elderly bear the brunt of the conflict. The use of chemical weapons in Syria is not only abhorrent, but also a crime against humanity. We condemn it in the strongest terms as it threatens to undermine the norm against the use of chemical weapons universally embraced by the international community. We welcome the partial report of the UN Team of Inspectors on the use of these weapons in Syria, and hope that the culprits will face the might of the international law and justice.”
Nuclear weapons: “The state of peace and security in the world is gradually getting worse. Possession of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction remains the principal threat to the survival of humanity.”
Liberia
H.E. Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President
24 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Because we know firsthand of the profound destruction and lasting hurt implied in civil conflict, we also agonize with the people of Syria, particularly those innocent women and children who suffer most from such tragedy. In this regard we unequivocally condemn the use of chemical weapons in Syria and anywhere in the world, and we call for concerted and renewed international efforts to stem the rising scourge of terrorism and other transnational crimes by action to control and eliminate weapons of mass destruction.”
Libya
H.E. Mr. Ali Zeidan, Prime Minister
25 September 2013
WMD, chemical weapons, Arms Trade Treaty: “Libya contributes very seriously in the international efforts exerted to disarm weapons of mass destruction, and to maintain international peace and security, through the dedicated work to fulfill its obligations under international instruments on disarmament of weapons of mass destruction, as Libya works in coordination and full cooperation with the international institutions and organizations concerned, and international partners to dispose the other chemical weapons stockpile in proper time, and is working to strengthen the partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) with which it has relations of technical and scientific cooperation in a number of areas. Libya is always keen to participate in all regional and international forums on disarmament of weapons of mass destruction, and to re-organize and regulate the conventional arms trade; as Libya signed the Treaty on the Arms Trade on 9 July 2013.”Disarmament: “On this occasion, I would like to emphasize that Libya is determined to reconsider the international instruments for disarmament which has not yet acceded to.”Nuclear weapons, WMD: “I also confirm Libya’s full support to the international efforts aiming at creating more areas free of nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction in various regions of the world. To contribute to the achievement of this goal, Libya is working in full coordination with the brothers at the Arab League to ensure the successful holding of the Conference on making the Middle East a zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction, which, unfortunately, has been postponed. We call upon His Excellency the Secretary-General of the United Nations and other parties to the organization of the conference to make every endeavors as stipulated by the resolution 1995, and the outcome document of the Review Conference of the Non-Proliferation Treaty in 2010, to hold the conference during the current year, and call upon all States concerned to participate in it, to ensure its success.”
Liechtenstein
H.E. Mrs. Aurelia Frick, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Sadly, it took a particularly outrageous act to generate action in the Security Council: the use of chemical weapons, with hundreds of victims, including countless children. We are encouraged to see that the Council has decided to ensure the destruction of all chemical weapons in Syria. This should also provide new momentum to ensure that all remaining States join the ChemicalWeapons Convention. Indeed it should be a step towards the elimination of all weapons of mass destruction worldwide.”Arms transfers, chemical weapons: “The use of chemical weapons in Syria has marked a watershed in the conflict. Nevertheless, this issue must not divert our attention away from the core problem: the fighting in Syria continues unabated, with blatant disregard for the civilian population and international humanitarian law. Weapons and ammunition cross the borders more easily than humanitarian assistance. The recent breakthrough on the issue of chemical weapons shows that political progress is possible. Hopefully, this will create the momentum for the Council to finally live up to its responsibility: to end the supply of weapons, pressure the conflict parties to accept a ceasefire, work towards a political solution, and prepare the ground for accountability for past crimes.”Chemical weapons: “There may be different views on who has used chemical weapons in Syria. But everyone agrees that this use constitutes a crime against humanity and a war crime that must not go unpunished. It must therefore be put before a court of law, together with the countless other crimes committed, for an independent and impartial investigation. Syria is our biggest collective accountability failure in recent history. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has been operational for more than a decade now. During this time, we have not witnessed any other situation in which crimes have been committed so systematically, at such a scale, and for such a long time - without any adequate response from the international community. It is well documented that crimes have been and continue to be committed by all sides. This is precisely the type of crisis for which we have established the ICC. And it is precisely the type of situation which led us to give the Security Council the competence to refer situations to the Court. In its recent resolution, the Council has made a limited statement on accountability. More determined and more concrete action must follow. A referral to the ICC will not only ensure that there is no impunity for the atrocious crimes committed in Syria. It will ultimately also contribute to a viable political future for the country: it will isolate those who have committed the most serious crimes, it will provide redress for victims, and it will establish the truth.”“Recent events in Syria have reminded us of the importance of the Kampala amendments to the Rome Statute adopted in 2010. We added provisions that criminalize the use of poisonous and other gases, no matter whether they are used in international or in internal armed conflict. It is troubling that these provisions have so quickly gained relevance.”Arms Trade Treaty: “The establishment of the International Criminal Court was the most significant development in international law in the past decades. Only the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty earlier this year has come even close in significance.”
Lithuania
H.E. Mrs. Dalia Grybauskaitė, President
26 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Luxembourg
H.E. Mr. Jean Asselborn, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
Arms trade, conventional weapons: “We all know the disastrous effects of the unregulated trade in conventional arms: violent repressions, armed conflicts, crime, widespread violence.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “That is why the Arms Trade Treaty is so crucially important. The Assembly has approved this Treaty by a very large majority five months ago. Luxembourg is proud to have been among the sponsors of this important initiative from the very start; we are proud to have signed the Treaty right at the opening for signature on 3 June 2013. The national ratification procedure has been started, and you can count on us for supporting a rapid entry into force of the Treaty.”
“In this respect, allow me to congratulate your own country, Mr. President, for having already ratified the Treaty. I also salute the fact that more than 110 Member States of the United Nations, including the United States, have already signed this new legal instrument.”
“The Arms Trade Treaty is a significant step forward for international law, international humanitarian law and human rights.”
Small arms and light weapons: “I would like to welcome in this context yesterday's important Security Council debate which was dedicated to the impact of the illicit transfer, destabilizing accumulation and misuse of small arms and light weapons on international peace and security, as well as the resolution which has been adopted on that occasion. Thus, the Council has rightly underlined the need for an integrated response by the international community: a response which takes into account the negative effects of these illicit activities on security, governance, the rule of law and development; a response which also takes into account the links between these activities and other threats to international peace and security, such as terrorism, piracy and transnational organized crime.”
Missiles, cluster munitions, chemical weapons: “The use of missiles, firebombs and cluster munitions, the use of chemical weapons,the systematic imposition of sieges, forced displacements, torture, sexual violence, violations and abuses committed against children, more than two million refugees, more than 100,000 dead: this is the chilling balance sheet of two and a half years of brutal repression and conflict in Syria. The list of war crimes and crimes against humanity, committed on a daily basis, continues to grow. Against this horror, I will not tire of repeating that the situation in Syria must be referred to the International Criminal Court.”
Chemical weapons: “Indeed, while we have been able to make progress these last days on the issue of chemical weapons, and while we are going to adopt in the next few hours a Security Council resolution establishing a strong and binding mechanism to ensure as soon as possible the control and destruction of the Syrian chemical weapons, we cannot and must not forget the humanitarian crisis which continues to unfold in Syria and in the neighboring countries, in particular in Lebanon and in Jordan, but also in Iraq and in Turkey.”
“We all agree: a sustainable solution to the conflict in Syria can only be political. Here also, let us live up to our responsibilities; let us seize the momentum created by the agreement on chemical weapons; let us set a date for the Geneva II conference; let us encourage the parties to participate in it in order to initiate a dynamic, on the basis of the communique of 30 June 2012, which would lead to a cessation of hostilities and to the necessary political transition in Syria, a transition which meets the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Yesterday, the negotiations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the E3+ 3 Group, led by the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, have restarted here in New York. We support these efforts. We want substantial negotiations which quickly lead to concrete results, to a diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear issue. Sanctions are not an end in themselves. They are the international response to the refusal by Iran to meet its international obligations and to cooperate fully with the IAEA. We encourage the new Iranian leadership to engage in constructive negotiations and to take the necessary measures in order to prove to the international community that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only, and to open a new page in its relations with the world community.”
Proliferation, WMD: “The risk of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction remains just as real a threat as the threat of terrorism.”
Macedonia (The former Yugoslav Republic of)
H.E. Mr. Nikola Gruevski, Prime Minister
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Speaking of one of the major issues - the crisis in Syria and the internal conflict with more than 100 000 victims and 2 million refugees - what is more troubling while pursuing diplomatic efforts is that the Syrian people were confronted with the use of chemical weapons which is strictly forbidden by international law. This must not be tolerated. We are among the countries that asked for urgent investigation, under the auspices of the Secretary General's Mechanism for the Investigation of Alleged Use of Chemical and Biological Weapons. Despite differing views, all Member States of the Council and of the United Nations are united in that for the final resolution of the Syrian crisis, a chance should be given to the political approach. Therefore, it is essential to concentrate maximum efforts on revitalizing the search for a political settlement and convene the Geneva II conference as soon as possible. The Syrian people deserve better days through decisive action of the international community that will put an end to the violence and threats.”
Madagascar
H.E. Mr. Andry Nirina Rajoelina, President
25 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Malawi
H.E. Mrs. Joyce Hilda Mtila Banda, President
24 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Malaysia
H.E. Mr. Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak, Prime Minister
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We welcome the recent US-Russia Framework Agreement, condemn without reservation the use of chemical weapons, and call on the international community to intensify their efforts to explore all possible diplomatic options for peace under the auspices of the UN.”
Maldives
H.E. Mrs. Mariyam Shakeela, Acting Foreign Minister
1 October 2013
Chemical weapons: “We are appalled at the human cost of the conflict in Syria. The use of chemical weapons at any time, by any one, for any means must not be tolerated. In this regard, the Maldives welcomes the United Nations Security Council resolution 2118 on the destruction of chemical weapons in Syria, which was adopted unanimously. The Council's decision, we hope, will take us a step closer to ending the atrocities taking place as we speak. Violence begets violence. Thus, we call on both sides of the conflict to choose the path of dialogue, not of violence.”
Mali
H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta, President
27 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Malta
H.E. Mr. Joseph Muscat, Prime Minister
26 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Marshall Islands
H.E. Mr. Christopher Loeak, President
26 September 2013
Nuclear weapons: “Nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands is no mere historical event - but an international legacy which will stay with us for generations.”“While unmet responsibility still rests with our historical administering power, the United States, the UN itself can no longer ignore it's own role during the Trusteeship era. I am strongly encouraged by the UN Secretary-General's commitment to address the ongoing impacts of nuclear testing in the Pacific, and look forward to practical efforts in this regard.”
Mauritania
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Teguedi, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Mauritius
H.E. Mr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Prime Minister
28 September 2013
Nuclear weapons, chemical weapons: “Mauritius also supports a Middle East which is free of Weapons of Mass Destruction. This will mean that no country in the region should hold nuclear or chemical weapon.”
Mexico
H.E. Mr. José Antonio Meade Kuribreña, Minister of Foreign Affairs
26 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “Human security is also affected by the irresponsible use and illicit traffic of conventional weapons. Mexico applauds the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty. With great vision, the Mexican Senate overwhelmingly approved the Treaty last week and I was honored to deposit the instrument of ratification here at the United Nations. Mexico will comply with it even before its entry into force. Mexico calls upon all Member States to ratify this Treaty, a testament to our Organization's ability to achieve common solutions to shared challenges.”Chemical weapons: “Therefore, we voice our support to diplomatic initiatives that pursue a political and peaceful solution to the Syrian crisis, in particular to the agreement reached between the United States and Russia to eliminate all chemical weapons in Syria.”
“The prohibition against the use or threat of use chemical weapons is absolute. The events of August 21st outside of Damascus are unacceptable. Therefore, the dismantling and ultimate destruction of the Syrian arsenal of chemical weapons, under the authority of the OCPW and the United Nations Security Council, must be immediate and unconditional. We should leave no room for dilatory tactics or blackmailing.”Nuclear weapons: “Mexico believes that disarmament must continue to be a key purpose of the United Nations. In following with my country's longstanding contribution to the cause of disarmament, on February 2014 we will be hosting in Nayarit, on the Pacific Coast, the Second Conference on the Humanitarian Impact of Nuclear Arms and other Weapons of Mass Destruction.”
Micronesia (Federated States of)
H.E. Mr. Emanuel Mori, President
25 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Moldova
Mr. Iurie Leancă, Prime Minister
26 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Arms Trade Treaty: “Let me mention the most important achievement of our assembly: the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), which became possible after many years of debates and intense negotiation on the regulation of global arms trade. The Republic of Moldova has signed the ATT and hopes for a timely implementation that will make the global arms trade more transparent and legitimate. The ATT could be an important step to master proliferation and illicit circulation of arms, especially in vulnerable areas and those where the constitutional regime in sovereign states is not respected.”“In addition the government is working closely with its European and international partners, especially with the Federal Office for Economy and Export Control of Germany (BAFA) and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe to review and modify the national legislation on export controls of dual use goods and then adopt the best international standards and experiences in this area.”
Monaco
His Serene Highness Prince Albert II
24 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “For Syria more particularly the number of civilians displaced or refugees is appalling. A new threshold has been crossed with the use of chemical arms, a grave violation of international law that we cannot tolerate. Monaco joins those who continue to advocate a political settlement, particularly in light of recent agreements about the control and destruction of chemical weapon stockpiles in Syria. Those responsible for the acts cannot go unpunished.”
Mongolia
H.E. Mr. Elbegdorj Tsakhia, President
26 September 2013
Disarmament, non-proliferation, WMD: “Mongolia firmly stands for non-proliferation and complete elimination of weapons of mass destruction.”Chemical weapons: “We cannot tolerate the use of chemical weapons and strongly condemn violation of the universally accepted international law.”
Nuclear weapons: “As a country with internationally recognized nuclear weapon-free-status, and uniquely situated between two nuclear-weapon states, permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, Mongolia has been working hard on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.”
Montenegro
H.E. Mr. Milo Dukanović, Prime Minister
27 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “Adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) as the first legally binding instrument in this area, will undoubtedly contribute to the global efforts in the field of disarmament and non-proliferation. It is an honour for me to emphasize that Montenegro has from the outset firmly supported a comprehensive and strong wording of the Arms Trade Treaty and was among the first 65 countries to sign it. Aware of the importance of its early coming into effect, we will make our best efforts to ensure its speedy ratification.”
Chemical weapons: “We are deeply concerned by a continuing deterioration of the situation in Syria and most strongly condemn any form of violence, killing of civilians and violation of human rights. We especially condemn the use of chemical weapons confirmed in the report of the UN Inspection Team, which the Secretary General Ban Ki-moon characterized as a war crime. We hereby urge that those responsible for crimes in Syria and violations of international law be brought to account. The agreement reached between the US and the Russian Federation gives us hope of a diplomatic solution to this crisis and ending of conflicts in Syria through a resolute action of the Security Council. We believe that a political solution and a democratic transition is the only way to stop the tragedy and conflict that resulted in a humanitarian crisis of incalculable proportions affecting the whole region.”
Morocco
H.E. Dr Saad Dine El Otmani, Minister for Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Regarding the situation in Syria, Morocco hopes that the Resolution 2118 regarding the elimination of chemical weapons in Syria, will lead to an end of the violences.”Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation: “Morocco is convinced that the security of the state is not based on their military power…. This is why Morocco is firmly committed to the principles of disarmament and non-proliferation and the importance of respect for the international treaties regarding non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.”Arms Trade Treaty: “I would like to welcome the ATT.”
Mozambique
H.E. Mr. Armando Emílio Guebuza, President
24 September 2013
Landmines: “In the context of our commitment to the disarmament agenda, an issue of paramount importance in promoting Peace and fight against poverty in the Mozambique, as well as a way of associating ourselves with the cause of international peace and security, that we will host, from June 29th to July 4th, 2014, the Third International Conference to Review the Convention on the Elimination of Anti-Personnel Mines. Thus, we would like to invite all member States, observers and international organizations as well as civil society to participate in this Conference.”
Myanmar
H.E. Mr. Wunna Maung Lwin, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
WMD, nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-prolifertion: “The continued existence of weapons of mass destruction particularly nuclear weapons poses the greatest threat to mankind. Myanmar is therefore actively pursuing the cause of nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation at the international forums. One of the testimonies of her aspiration was demonstrated in the annual resolution on ‘Nuclear disarmament’ submitted by our delegation since 1995. Through this resolution, we have been calling upon Nuclear-Weapon States to cease immediately the qualitative improvement, development, production and stockpiling of nuclear weapons with a view to taking measures leading to their total elimination within a specified framework of time.
Nuclear weapons: “With this firm belief, the Government of Myanmar has signed the Additional Protocol for the IAEA Safeguard Agreement on Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty on 17 August 2013. This is yet another significant developments which testifying our commitment towards the goals of nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation. Myanmar will continue to cooperate with IAEA and the international community for its implementation.”
Namibia
H.E. Mr. Hifikepunye Pohamba, President
26 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Namibia condemns the use of chemical weapons against the civilian population in Syria, as confirmed by UN inspectors. Namibia welcomes the agreement reached by the Russian Federation and the United States to place Syrian chemical weapons under the control of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). We also support the efforts of the Joint Special Envoy of the UN Secretary General and the League of Arab States to help the Syrian parties find a peaceful solution to the conflict.”
Nauru
H.E. Mr. Baron Divavesi Waqa, President
26 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Nepal
H.E. Mr. Khil Raj Regmi, Chairman of the Council of Ministers
28 September 2013
Disarmament, WMD: “ Nepal reiterates its call for general and complete disarmament of all weapons of mass destruction, including biological, chemical, radiological and nuclear in a time bound manner. Our efforts towards the goal of total nuclear disarmament must be matched by efforts to achieve the non-proliferation of other weapons of mass destruction. As host to the United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament (RCPD) for Asia and the Pacific in Kathmandu, we stand for strengthening regional initiatives for peace through dialogue, education and awareness, and subsequent confidence-building measures.”
NWFZ, outer space, small arms and light weapons, Arms Trade Treaty: “Nepal supports nuclear weapons free zones, keeping the outer space free of weapons, and controlling small arms and light weapons from the reach of illicit hands. The Arms Trade Treaty is a landmark achievement of this year.”
Chemical weapons: “ We condemn the recent use of chemical weapons in Syria and call for total destruction of the chemical weapons stockpile in all parts of the world.”
Netherlands (The Kingdom of)
His Excellency Frans Timmermans, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “During the festive celebrations this year in The Hague, which gave fresh impetus to the peaceful settlement of disputes, there were scenes of unspeakable violence in Syria, including the use of chemical weapons…. The use of chemical weapons by Saddam Hussein led to the Chemical Weapons Convention and the OPCW. So the institutions and instruments are in place…. The world was shocked to discover that an attack with chemical weapons had taken place in Syria on 21 August. The attack violated one of the most important peremptory norms of international law. The 1925 Geneva Protocol, to which Syria is a party, bans the use of chemical weapons.”Nuclear weapons: “Fifty years ago US President John F. Kennedy expressed the fear that in the 1970s there would be 15, 20 or even 25 nuclear weapons states. Thanks in part to the Non-Proliferation Treaty , this danger was averted . But the risk of further proliferation of nuclear weapons has not receded.“While much has been achieved in the field of disarmament, we still have a long way to go. In his speech in Berlin in June 2013, President Obama warned of the danger of nuclear weapons. ‘Aslong as nuclear weapons exist, we are not truly safe,’ he said - and he is right. He plans to takenew steps to reduce strategic nuclear arsenals. He also wants to make substantial reductions inthe number of US and Russian non-strategic weapons in Europe. The Netherlands favoursthese steps, strongly supports these efforts and wants to contribute to them.”Nuclear security: “In March next year, the Nuclear Security Summit will begin in The Hague. My country's hosting of this summit is in keeping with our tradition as a country of peace, justice and security. Nuclear materials can play an important role in curing our illnesses and heating our houses . And fortunately, the likelihood of terrorists using nuclear materials in an attack is small. But if it didhappen, the consequences for the world would be very serious indeed. The Nuclear Security Summit is meant to give fresh impetus to global efforts to ensure nuclear security and prevent nuclear terrorism, by making and implementing agreements at the highest multilateral level. Governments, businesses, researchers and organisations from many countries are working together to reduce the quantities of nuclear materials, tp enhance the security of the materials that remain, and to combat nuclear smuggling.”Disarmament: “A peaceful world demands a sustainable legal order and a powerful agenda for development. It demands a strategy for disarmament and a focus on human rights.”
New Zealand
Mr. John Key, Prime Minister
26 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty, small arms: “New Zealand also recognises the importance to Africa, to the Caribbean and to our own region of the Arms Trade Treaty adopted in April and signed by New Zealand and many others on the 3rd of June. This Treaty should curb the flows of small arms and other weapons, especially to conflict regions, and help arrest the deaths and human misery that are they cause.”Chemical weapons: “The Secretary-General has advised the Council and the General Assembly, ‘The United Nations Mission has now confirmed, unequivocally and objectively, that chemical weapons have been used in Syria.’ The report found ‘clear and convincing evidence that surface-to-surface rockets containing the nerve agent sarin were used’ on 21 August. The information in the report also makes it very clear that those rockets must have been fired by the Syrian regime. As the Secretary-General has said, these are war crimes. Those responsible must be brought to account. Those that try to cast doubt on the report's conclusions make themselves look foolish and do a disservice to the UN.”“It is imperative now that the Council acts. It must adopt a resolution that responds to the use of chemical weapons.”
Nicaragua
H.E. Mr. Samuel Santos López, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
Nuclear weapons: “Our Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) is achieving shared visions on social development, education, health, environment, energy and finance, among other sectors, and is now preparing to work collectively on cooperation, nuclear disarmament, fighting corruption, agriculture, science and technology.”
Niger
H.E. Mr. Mohamed Bazoum, Deputy Prime Minister
27 September 2012
Chemical weapons: “We condemn the use of chemical weapons in Syria. We call upon the UN to promote a political solution at the upcoming Geneva conference.”
Nigeria
H.E. Mr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, President
24 September 2013
Small arms and light weapons: “Nigeria continues to support the efforts of the United Nations in addressing the global initiative to combat the menace of the illicit trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons. We have redoubled efforts to address this onerous challenge within our borders and across the West African sub-region.
“In doing so, we also recognize the need for a broad-based global partnership in the ongoing battle against trans-border crimes, including terrorism and acts of piracy, It is regrettable that these scourges are sustained by unfettered access by non-state actors to illicit small arms and light weapons with which they foster insecurity and instability across our continent. For us in Africa, these are the ‘weapons of mass destruction’!”
Arms Trade Treaty: “It is therefore, in the light of our collective obligation and unceasing struggle to end this nightmare, that I congratulate Member States on the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) in April this year. Our hope is that upon its entry into force, the ATT would herald an era of accountable trade in conventional arms which is critical to the security of nations. In line with our continued commitment to this project, Nigeria has signed and ratified the Treaty. We will continue to engage other Member-States for its successful implementation.”
Chemical weapons: “The reported use of chemical weapons in the Syrian crisis, is unacceptable. Nigeria condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the use of chemical weapons that are prohibited by International Conventions.”
Nuclear weapons: “The threat which nuclear weapons pose to the survival of the human race is to be understood not just in the context of aspirational nations but also the nations already in possession of such weapons. Nuclear weapons are as unsafe in the hands of small powers as they are in the hands of the major powers. It is our collective responsibility to urge the international community to respond to the clarion call for a peaceful universe in an age of uncertainty.
“We can attain this ob]ed:ive if we adopt measures and policies that will promote nuclear disarmament, protect and renew our environment, and push towards an international system that is based on trust, mutual respect and shared goals.”Disarmament: “We must strive to eradicate poverty, hunger, disease and human misery; we must eliminate the scourge of nuclear, chemical, biological, as well as small arms and light weapons.”
Norway
H.E. Mr. Espen Barth Eide, Minister of Foreign Affairs
25 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “The use of Chemical Weapons is utterly unacceptable, and is a grave violation of international law. Those responsible must be brought to justice and the case referred to the ICC.”
Oman
H.E. Mr. Yousef Bin Al-Alawi Bin Abdullah
30 September 2013
Nuclear weapons, WMD: “My country continues to support the initiatives aimed at making the Middle East a zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction, being fully aware of the effects of these weapons on the security and stability of the nations, the regions and the entire world.”“On the other hand, we hope that the international community, particularly the depository countries of the NPT, to persuade other states in the Middle East to join the Treaty and to subject their nuclear facilities to the comprehensive control system under the supervision of the IAEA, which will subsequently contribute to reach the universality of the treaty and making the Middle East zone free from nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction. This goal deserves the support from all countries, particularly major ones.”Chemical weapons: “My country welcomes the consensus that has been achieved in the Security Council on the Syrian chemical weapons by adopting unanimously Resolution 2118 (2013).”
Pakistan
H.E. Mr. Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, Prime Minister
27 September 2013
Military spending: “Our two countries have wasted massive resources in an anns race. We could have used those resources for the economic well-being of our people. We still have that opportunity. Pakistan and India can prosper together; and the entire region would benefit from our cooperation.”Chemical weapons: “As party to the Chemical Weapons Convention, Pakistan remains opposed to theuse of chemical weapons. We condemn its use in the strongest terms. We welcome the agreement reached between the United States and Russia, and supported by other permanent members of the Security Council, to secure and destroy chemical weapons in Syria. This crucial step has facilitated consensus within the Council to adopt a resolution , which will not only address the issue of chemical weapons but start the stalled political process in Syria that would lead to national reconciliation and solutions that are acceptable to the people of Syria. Pakistan will support that resolution. Acceptance of the Geneva One document and a decision on the dates for the convening of the Geneva Two Conference will be a big step in ending the crisis in Syria.”Nuclear weapons: “As a responsible nuclear weapon state, wc will continue to pursue the goals ofdisarmament and non-proliferation and adhere to the policy of Credible Minimum Deterrence, without entering into an arms race. We would not, however, remain oblivious to the evolving security dynamics in South Asia, nor would we agree to arrangement that is detrimental to our security and strategic interests. Our position on the proposed Fissile Material Treaty is determined by our national securityinterests and the objective of strategic stability in South Asia.”Nuclear energy: “Safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear energy, without discrimination, is essential for economic development. Pakistan qualifies for full access to civil nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, to meet its growing energy needs, for continued economic growth.”Nuclear security: “By the same token, as a mainstream partner in the global non-proliferation regime,Pakistan has impeccable credentials to join the multilateral export control regime, including the Nuclear Suppliers Group. Pakistan will continue to participate constructively in the Nuclear Security Summit(NSS) process, which is a laudable initiative.”Drones: “The war against terrorism must be waged within the framework of international law. The use of armed drones in the border areas of Pakistan is a continued violation of our territorial integrity. It results in casualties of innocent civilians and is detrimental to our resolve and efforts to eliminate extremism and terrorism from Pakistan. I have urged the United States to cease these strikes, so that we could avert further casualties and suffering.”
Palau
H.E. Mr. Tommy Esang Remengesau Jr., President
25 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “And, let me interject, as we witness so many areas of conflict on our planet, I think it is time for all of us, as Leaders, to use this great institution and our own efforts to condemn violence on people for whatever reason, including the use of chemical weapons, and to seek an end to armed conflict wherever we can.”Militarism: “Finally, we must agree, in all matters, to promote and protect the human rights and peaceful existence of all the people of the world. Discussion, not weapons, is the best way to resolve differences and insure human rights.”
Palestine (State of)
H.E. Mr. Mahmoud Abbas, President
26 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Further, while we condemned the crime of the use of chemical weapons in Syria, we have affirmed our rejection of a military solution and the need to find a peaceful political solution to fulfill the aspirations of the Syrian people.”
Panama
H.E. Mr. Ricardo Martinelli Berrocal, President
25 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We condemn, in the strongest terms, the use of chemical weapons against the civilian population in Syria, and we share the view that such acts constitute a crime ‘against humanity’ which should be investigated and punished in accordance with the norms of international criminal law currently in force.”
Nuclear weapons, WMD: “We are concerned about the escalating violence that has occurred in the Middle East, and the veiled and open threats to use nuclear weapons to silence the right of countries and peoples to live in peace in their territories. This world organization has the supreme duty to speak clearly and forcefully in favor of world peace and the right of mankind to continue living on the planet. In this supreme hour of life and survival, we cannot get used to the idea that nothing serious is happening and that life will go on, after the atomic mushroom cloud delivers its final verdict of death to all species on the planet. There are enough interests and with nuclear power in the Middle East with the capacity to introduce and test weapons of mass destruction in a belligerent scenario, for all of us, gathered here, to ignore what is happening in that region.”
Papua New Guinea
H.E. Mr. Leo Dion, Deputy Prime Minister
28 September 2013
Disarmament, non-proliferation: “We express our concern over the lack of progress on disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation.”“As a strong supporter of a nuclear-free world, Papua New Guinea calls on the UN and the international community to address this serious lack of progress. We also need to revitalize the UN's disarmament work to foster international peace and security.”Arms Trade Treaty, small arms and light weapons: “Papua New Guinea welcomes the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty that will regulate the trade and transfer of conventional arms, including Small Arms and Light Weapons.”
Paraguay
H.E. Mr. Horacio Manuel Cartes Jara, President
24 September 2013
WMD, chemical weapons: “Economic and financial crises, civil strife and the use of weapons of mass destruction cloud the horizon all over the planet. The events in Syria are a concern to all of us and our Organization must play a preeminent role towards the definitive solution to this conflict. In this regard, my country -calls for supporting the implementation of the Framework Agreement between the United States and the Russian Federation.”
Peru
H.E. Mr. Ollanta Humala, President
25 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Peru condemns the use of chemical weapons, a fact that is unacceptable from every point of view. It is an affront to humanity and a clear violation to international law. The Syrian people deserve an immediate solution to the bloody conflict. We urge, therefore, all parties involved to find a peaceful and negotiated solution with respect for the mechanisms of dispute settlement.”
Philippines
H.E. Mr. Albert F. del Rosario, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Furthermore, in accordance with the application of the rule of law and the peaceful settlement of disputes, the Philippines, as a State Party to the Chemical Weapons Convention and a staunch advocate of disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, also welcomes Syria's accession to the Treaty. The Philippines hopes that the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons will effectively assist the Syrian Government in disposing of its chemical weapons stockpiles.”
Poland
H.E. Mr. Bronislaw Komorowski, President
25 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “The Syrian tragedy, including the use of chemical weapons, is symbolic of a broader phenomenon, the ignoring of international values, norms and obligations adopted by ourorganization and the entire international community. After all, they should apply to everybody to the same degree, with no-one set outside or above them.”
Portugal
H.E. Mr. Rui Machete, Minister of State and Foreign Affairs
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “The world was shocked with the use of chemical weapons in Ghouta, on the 21st of August. I want to be very precise on this. The use of chemical weapons represents a violation of international law, a heinous crime and a civilization regression. We cannot stand idle in the face of the violation of the barrier between civilization and barbarism, which the international community had vowed never to cross again.”
Qatar
H.E. Mr. His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Amir
24 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Destructive actions and horrible massacres are continuing at the hands of the Syrian regime against its peoples in addition to the policies of scorched land upon the Syrian people crossing all the red lines set by ethics and mandated by law, particularly after the regime's use of chemical weapons against the Syrian people.”“The issue is not whether or not Syria possesses to chemical weapons for Syria is a state that is in conflict with another state that owns chemical, biological and even nuclear weapons. But the issue is the use of such weapons by the regime against its own people. The Syrian people has not risen up for putting the Syrian chemical weapons under the international supervision but for getting rid of despotism and corruption and to end the injustice it has been facing.”WMD, nuclear weapons, nuclear energy: “Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East and in particular nuclear weapons is a very alarming issue. In this context, I affirm the position of the State of Qatar that every state in the region has an absolute right in using nuclear power for peaceful purposes according to the standards and procedures of the International Atomic Energy Agency. We also look forward for convening the Helsinki conference as a step that contributes to the efforts made to make the Middle East a zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction.”
Republic of Korea
H.E. Yun Byung-se, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
Proliferation, WMD: “In particular, the Republic of Korea is of the view that the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery is one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.”I: “In this connection, the use of chemical weapons in Syria, as confirmed by the report of UN investigators, is the worst humanitarian disaster in the 21st century. The government of theRepublic of Korea condemns the use of chemical weapons in the strongest possible terms, as itconstitutes a crime against humanity that cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.“In this regard, we welcome the recent agreement between the U.S. and Russia on the ‘Frameworkfor Elimination of Syrian Chemical Weapons’, and an expected decision by the OPCW and aresolution by the Security Council today. We urge the Syrian government to faithfully implementits commitments to the international community, and strongly call upon other countries that havenot acceded to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), including the DPRK, to do so as soon aspossible.”DPRK’s nuclear programme: “In this context, I must draw your attention to the seriousness of DPRK's ongoing WMD programs. Despite a series of Security Council resolutions, North Korea launched long-range missiles and conducted nuclear tests as recently as early this year, in blatant violation of its international obligations. As was emphasized in a recent IAEA resolution on the DPRK, it should strictlyimplement its obligations under the relevant Security Council resolutions, including resolution2094. Like with Syria, the international community should forge united efforts to roll back DPRK'snuclear weapons programs to prevent the advent of another nuclear-armed state. However, if the DPRK decides to give up its so-called parallel pursuit of economic development and nuclear armament, and in turn embarks on a path of genuine change through concrete actions, the Republic of Korea stands ready to help North Korea.”
Romania
H.E Mr. Titus Corlătean, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “ It is the case of the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty. We have managed to deliver jointly a concrete tool meant at ensuring a safer world and addressing the challenges affecting the security of all our citizens. We must continue on this path and bring the treaty into force as soon as possible. I am pleased to inform you that Romania is currently undergoing legal domestic procedures in order to ratify the treaty as soon as possible.”Chemical weapons: “Hence, in this new context, we call all States not yet Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention to undertake the necessary internal measures for adhesion in order to make sure that a future use of such weapons is not only prohibited, but also made impossible.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “I would also like to recognize, as a major breakthrough yesterday the historic call between President Rouhani and President Obama. This one on one conversation, occurring after more than two decades, gives us hopes that Iran's nuclear program will become more transparent, and only energy-oriented. We wait, with legitimate interest, the specific plan Minister Zarif will present, in this respect, in mid October in Geneva.”
Russian Federation
Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons, WMD: “The use of chemical weapons is [in]admissible. This does not mean, however, that one can usurp the right to accuse and pass verdicts. All the incidents associated with the use of chemical weapons by whoever that might be in Syria must be investigated in a professional and unbiased manner and then examined by the UN Security Council exclusively on the basis of facts, rather than allegations and assumptions.“Recently, a common argument has been increasingly used to prove that the threat or use of force directly prohibited by the UN Charter is nearly the most effective method to address international problems, including settlement of national domestic conflicts. There are attempts to extrapolate such an approach also to the situation in Syria. This happens despite the fact that all the experience of such interventions with the use of force in the recent years has proven that they are ineffective, meaningless and destructive. This is an extremely dangerous path leading to the erosion of the foundations of today's world order and subversion of the WMD non-proliferation regimes.”“The growing understanding of this reality has achieving Russia-U.S. understandings on putting under opened the way towards international control and subsequent elimination of the Syrian chemical arsenals. This became possible thanks to the decision by Damascus to join the Convention on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons and fulfill relevant obligations following the expedited procedure. We expect that the decisions by the OPCW Executive Council and the UN Security Council will contribute to establishing a required framework for elimination of chemical arsenals in Syria.“The progress in chemical disarmament in Syria should give an impetus to implementation of the existing arrangements to convene a conference on establishing a zone free of weapons of mass destruction and means of their delivery in the Middle East. There are a number of complicated issues related to ensuring full participation of the countries of the region in the conference, but they cannot be referred to indefinitely. This is exactly the case when true leadership and will must be demonstrated for the common benefit.”Iran and DPRK nuclear programmes: “The approaches based on negotiation are required as well with respect to other situations, including the Iranian nuclear program and the nuclear problem of the Korean Peninsula.”
Rwanda
H.E. Mr. Paul Kagame, President
25 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Saint Kitts and Nevis
The Honourable Dr. Denzil L. Douglas, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Sustainable and Human Resources Development
27 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty, small arms and light weapons: “St. Kitts and Nevis appreciates the strides that we have made with the Arms Trade Treaty and would encourage that we move with alacrity to ensure its coming into force. However, as small island states with open borders we see the relevance of establishing international standards and controls that will govern the illicit flow of small arms and light weapons through our ports… We commend the United States of America for the partnership that has been forged with St. Kitts and Nevis and the other Member States of the Caribbean that form part of the US- Caribbean Basin Security Initiative which, among other things, will be pivotal to our efforts at stemming the illicit flow of foreign made small arms into our region.”
Disarmament: “We see the relevance of maintaining sharp focus on those areas that are integral to the national and international development agenda. I refer to such matters as: … (iv) Disarmament …”
Saint Lucia
H.E. Mr. Alva Romanus Baptiste, Minister of External Affairs
30 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
H.E. Mr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister
27 September 2013
Small arms and light weapons, Arms Trade Treaty: “As we continue our collective journey in the quest of a greater and lasting global peace, we have been reminded that wars do not only erupt between countries, but within them. We know, too, that some of the highest numbers of violent deaths occur in countries ostensibly at peace. This year, the international community has recognised that genuine and lasting peace between and within nations, cities and villages cannot occur in an environment that permits the unregulated trade in small arms and light weapons. The Arms Trade Treaty that we negotiated - and which Saint Vincent and the Grenadines signed on the very first day that it was available for signature - is far weaker than we would have liked. Nonetheless, we consider it an imptorant first step in regulating the illicit flow of small arms and light weapons worldwide, and particularly into our Caribbean region, where the tide of guns is oftentimes accompanied by torrents of narcotics malting their way to markets in other countries.”
Samoa
H.E. Mr. Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, Prime Minister
27 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “In June this year, during the historical signing event of the Arms Trade Treaty, Samoa announced that it would sign the treaty at the highest political level during the UN Treaty Event of the present UNGA. We kept this promise and I signed for Samoa during a special signing ceremony two days ago. We welcome the fact that more than 100 nations, including the United States have now signed the treaty.”
Small arms and light weapons, ATT: “For small island countries like Samoa, it only takes a few small arms and light weapons in the wrong hands, to cause instability. Indeed within our own Pacific region, these so called small arms have fuelled conflicts and disrupted the lives of communities and impeded development of countries. The Arms Trade Treaty , when fully implemented will greatly assist the efforts of small island states like mine in sustaining the security and stability of our communities.”
“Our signing the ATT is also further testimony to our firm commitment to general and complete disarmament, as it will contribute significantly to saving lives, stop human rights abuses, avoid crises and is an important step to reduce and eventually eliminate altogether, the human cost of conventional arms.”Chemical weapons: “The untold sufferings brought about by the Syrian crisis has touched many hearts, and the latest episode as we watched in utter disbelief the use of chemical weapons to kill indiscriminately defenseless victims and even children is incomprehensible.”
“We welcome therefore the joint proposal by the United States and Russia and the willingness of Syria to have its chemical weapons destroyed under the competent UN authority and we expect total compliance for this initiative to succeed. While weapons of mass destruction such as chemical weapons continue to exist, some megalomaniac will sooner or later resort to their use with deadly consequences for the world.”
WMD: “The ultimate safeguard is of course the destruction of all such weapons whether chemical, biological or nuclear.”Nuclear weapons: “The High-level meeting yesterday on Nuclear Disarmament highlighted yet again the urgent need to have a treaty banning nuclear weapons given the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of any use of nuclear weapons.”
“Such weapons represent the great paradox of our time. While nations desire peace and talk of peace, far more of the national wealth goes towards the development and acquisition of ever more sophisticated and destructive weapons of mass destruction.”
Nuclear testing: “Our Pacific region was the scene of a great deal of nuclear testing with some islands still bearing the scars of these tests. Our regional response was the creation of the Rarotonga Nuclear Free Zone Treaty to ensure that nuclear testing in the Pacific will be a thing of the past.”“Samoa re-affirms its continued support for a nuclear test-free world. Early agreement must be reached to ban nuclear testing and to cease the manufacture and creation of more nuclear weapons.”
San Marino
H.E. Mr. Pasquale Valentini, Prime Minister
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons, nuclear weapons: “In the same way, when ‘crimes against humanity’ are committed, crimes that also the Secretary General has recently denounced and documented, after a strong condemnation, a united action towards the elimination of chemical and nuclear weapons is needed in order to avoid responding to violence with violence.”
São Tomé and Príncipe
H.E. Mr. Carlos Filomeno Agostinho Das Neves, Permanent Representative to the UN
1 October 2013
Chemical weapons: “The Democratic Republic of Sao Tome & Principe vehemently condemns the use of chemical weapons in violation of all international accords. We also take this opportunity to welcome recent developments toward dismantling the Syrian arsenal of chemical weapons and urge both parties in conflict and the International Community to pursue a compromise that will lead to the cessation of hostilities and pave the way for open dialogue and negotiations within a multilateral framework, toward a political solution aimed at establishing a lasting peace.”Conventional arms: “Combating piracy requires the establishment of an environment that is conducive to global security. As it is normally associated with transnational crimes such as the trafficking of arms, drugs and persons, which São Tomé and Príncipe emphatically condemns, my country has coordinated with other States in the region to combat such-activities, and has taken internal steps that make it more difficult for our territory to be used for the purposes of money laundering or financing of other illicit or criminal acts.”
Senegal
H.E. Mr. Macky Sall, President
25 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We urge the Syrian Government to exercise restraint and to comply with the Agreement concluded for the control and destruction of its arsenal of chemical weapons.”
Serbia
H.E. Mr. Tomislav Nikolič
25 September 2013
Disarmament, non-proliferation, arms control: “The Republic of Serbia is a party to nearly all international instruments and initiatives in the fields of disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control. It fully complies with the obligations it has undertaken.”Arms Trade Treaty: “Serbia's commitment to the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), which we recently signed, is based on the belief that the establishment of legally binding international standards in this field is a significant contribution to eliminating illegal arms trade, the fight against international terrorism and organized crime, promotion of peace, security and stability - or in a nutshell - alleviation of human suffering.”Disarmament: “In accordance with the agreements it has entered into, my country has counted and made an inventory of all weapons in its possession and has made this information available. It has also allowed inspection of its arsenals. Our partners know where each piece of Serbian weaponry is located. Nothing is kept secret. We have done so, not only because we were bound to do so, but to show and prove that Serbia is truly committed to peace and cooperation with the neighbours. And, contribution to peace can be made also through disarmament. Never in its history has Serbia fought a war of aggression, and the weapons now in its possession are only meant for its defence."WMD: “Furthermore, Serbia has never posed a threat to any country; it has never possessed weapons of mass destruction, and has no intention of making weapons of mass destruction part of its visible quantifiable and verifiable arsenal. We are aware that progress on disarmament and arms control hinges not only on us. In this context, success is related to developments on a wider political and strategic scene.”
Seychelles (Republic of)
H.E. Mr. Danny Faure, Vice President
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Seychelles condemns in the strongest terms any use of chemical weapons, or any other weapon of mass destruction.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “As one of the first signatories of the Arms Trade Treaty, Seychelles also urges all nations to actively engage to reduce the risk of arms trades which remains one of the biggest challenges for our region and the world.”
Sierra Leone
H.E. Mr. Samura Kamara, Minister of Foreign Affairs
26 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “Sierra Leone welcomes the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty early this year. This is a significant and historic achievement in our collective effort in pursuit of a safer and more secure world. We therefore hope that the illegal transfer of conventional weapons to the wrong hands, a major source of the escalation of conflicts in the developing world, particularly in Africa, can now be largely regulated and minimized. In that regard, we remain committed to supporting international instruments aimed at establishing peace and security in the world and an economic order that is beneficial to the rich and poor, the weak and strong, as well as the big and small nations.”
Chemical weapons: “The use of chemical weapons in conflict poses a renewed global security threat. There is therefore the need for increased multilateral and collective engagement and responses to these complex challenges.”
Nuclear security: “Non-traditional security issues such as climate change, people trafficking, nuclear safety, energy, food and maritime security, and financing for development are becoming more pronounced.”
Singapore
H.E. Mr. K. Shanmugam, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Violence and conflict are as great a threat to global stability as poverty. The international community must respond firmly to such threats. In this regard, Singapore welcomes the unanimous adoption of UNSC Resolution 2118 on the destruction of chemical weapons in Syria. We strongly condemn the use of chemical weapons under any circumstances, which constitutes a violation ofinternational law.”
Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Ivan Gašparovič, President
24 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Slovakia principally condemns use of chemical weapons as a crime against humanity and urgently asks to bring the perpetrators before the International Criminal Court. The UN’s continued engagement is essential as there is no other functional alternative to its role.”Disarmament: “We cannot have a secure, safe and stable environment without effective arms control and disarmament procedures in place as the basic instrument for conflict prevention.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “The signing of the Arms Trade Treaty has shown that the UN has the potential to make history and substantively contribute to increasing security in the world through its shared commitment to taking a responsible approach to arms trading. Slovakia believes that the joint effort of the international community can ensure the treaty will soon enter into force. We are prepared to do everything necessary in this respect.”Nuclear weapons: “With regard to removing nuclear threats and their secondary consequences on health and the environment, Slovakia actively supports entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty which we consider an important pillar of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.”
Slovenia
H.E. Mr. Borut Pahor, President
26 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “The unconscionable use of chemical weapons in Syria is not only considered a war crime. It is an assault against our common humanity. Has peaceful diplomacy failed again, and will the only way to stop the violence now be military intervention?”“The US-Russian agreement on the Framework for the Elimination of Syrian Chemical Weapons must be implemented without delay. Syria's accession to the UN Chemical Weapons Convention is a positive step. But this should not be seen as an opportunity for the Syrian Government to stall for time. Syria should comply immediately and fully or face consequences. It is important that diplomacy prevailed and brought the issue back to the UN and to the Security Council. The Security Council should live up to its responsibility and use all appropriate measures to comprehensively address the situation in Syria. Finding a political solution remains the only viable and lasting solution to the crisis and to ensure stability in the region. We support the timely convening of the Geneva II conference.”
Solomon Islands
H.E. Mr. Manasseh Maelanga
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We note with concern the preliminary findings of the UN Investigation team confirming the use of chemical weapons. Solomon Islands welcomes the Russian and United States initiatives to destroy chemical weapons in Syria and further support all efforts in seeking a diplomatic and political solution to the civil war.”
Arms Trade Treaty: “ Solomon Islands remains an arms free state. We note the use of conventional and unconventional arms in the wrong hands threaten international peace and stability. Solomon Islands welcomes the recently adopted Arms Trade Treaty and hope major players of arms trade sign up to the international framework. This will strengthen the treaty, Solomon Islands continues to follow and assess the treaty's progress.”
Somalia
H.E. Mr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President
26 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We must not allow use of Chemical Weapons against human being in war or otherwise let alone children,women and vulnerable.”
South Africa
H.E. Mr. Jacob Zuma, President
24 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We have expressed our dismay at the use of chemical weapons in Syria. There is no cause that could justify the use of weapons of mass destruction, by anyone or anybody under any circumstances. It is our strongly held view that any political transition in Syria must come about as aresult of the will of the Syrian people, and not as a result of a force of arms. We welcome the recent positive developments such as the decision by Syria to accede to the Chemical Weapons Convention and the ongoing bilateral consultations between the Russian Federation and the United States.”
South Sudan
H.E. Mr. James Wani Igga, Vice President
26 September 2013
Disarmament: “The President has also ordered for inevitable disarmament of the civil population.”Small arms and light weapons: “The rate of crime caused by the proliferation of small arms has been alarming. While our police force has managed to apprehend many criminals, 13 others are still slippery and at large but the government is committed to erase this menace.”
Spain
H.E. Mr. Mariano Rajoy Brey, President
25 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “The brutal attack with sarin gas against civilians in Damascus, confirmed by the report of the UN Mission, has been widely condemned among the international community, which firmly believes this act must not be repeated, nor go unpunished.”
“The proposal by Russia and the United States that will allow international control and the subsequent destruction of all stocks of chemical weapons in Syria has been applauded by all. It is now necessary for the Security Council to adopt a Resolution to establish a legally binding prohibition on the use of chemical weapons in Syria and to ensure their mandatory destruction. Much rests on this question. As the Secretary-General remarked, it constitutes a challenge to international security, one that if not resolved will represent a collective failure.” Arms Trade Treaty: “Spain works to promote disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control, and has taken an active part in the Arms Trade Treaty negotiations.”Nuclear terrorism: “We have also participated in various initiatives to prevent nuclear terrorism.”
Sri Lanka
H.E. Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa, President
24 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Sudan
H.E. Mr. Ali Ahmed Karti, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We condemn the use of chemical weapons in the Syrian conflict. We support the Russian approach to resolving this matter.”
Suriname
H.E. Mr. Winston G. Lackin, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
Nuclear weapons: “We are proud to belong to a region that has proclaimed itself as a nuclear weapons free zone.”
Swaziland
His Majesty King Mswati III
25 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “The UN Mission findings on the use of chemical weapons in Syria, should be used as a basis to chart a way forward in pursuit of the dismantling of these unconventional weapons of mass destruction, which are a serious threat to mankind.”
“As long as the chemical weapons continue to exist in that country, it remains at risk of similar attacks where nobody will own up to them. Therefore it is only proper that the dismantling process begins with immediate effect to prevent a similar attack in future.”
Sweden
H.E. Mr. Fredrik Reinfeldt, Prime Minister
24 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Those responsible for systematic violations of human rights - including those responsible for the use of chemical weapons - must be held accountable. The conflict must be handled within the UN-system.”
Switzerland
H.E. Ueli Maurer, President
24 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “The use of chemical weapons is a particularly despicable crime. It is imperative to shed light on all facts. With this in mind, Switzerland welcomes the recent developments.”
Syrian Arab Republic
H.E. Mr. Walid Almoualem, Deputy Prime Minister
30 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Ladies and Gentlemen, we are the ones who were targeted by poisonous gases in Khan Al-Assal, near Aleppo. We have asked for an Investigation Mission, and demanded to include in its mandate the ability to determine who used chemical weapons, however, the United States and its allies, France and United Kingdom, are the ones who prevented that, and insisted, then, to limit the functions of the Mission to only decide whether chemical weapons were used or not.
“We, in Syria, waited five months for the Mission to come, and when it arrived in Syria, it was withdrawn before the completion of its work, as certain states began beating the drums of war on Syria. My country has accepted the initiative graciously launched by H.E. President Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation. Syria, by acceding to the Convention on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, proves its commitment against the use of such weapons, while at the same time calls on the international community to shoulder its responsibility against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East.“Syria is known for fulfilling its obligations and commitments; therefore, I assure you the Syria's commitment to the full implementation of the provisions of the Convention, and to cooperate with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) as a state party to the Convention. However, there remains the challenge that is facing all of us whether those who are supplying terrorists with these types of weapon will abide by their legal commitments, since terrorists, who used poisonous gases in my country have received chemical agents from regional and Western countries that are well known to all of us.”Nuclear weapons, WMD: “After Syria's accession to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, my country renews its call for international community to work on establishing a zone free ofall weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East. In this regard, we would like to remind the international community of the Syrian initiative at the end of its non-permanent membership in the Security Council in 2003, and calls on the Security Council to adopt it. Syria stresses that establishing a free zone of from weapons of mass destruction in the region is unachievable without the accession of Israel, the only nuclear power in the region, to all treaties banning such weapons, and to put its nuclear facilities under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). At the same time, we emphasize on the right of all countries to acquire and develop nuclear technology for peaceful purposes in accordance with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Syria condemns the continued blocking by the United States and Israel of holding the International Conference on the Establishment of a Zone Free of Weapons of Mass Destruction in the Middle East, which was scheduled to take place in 2012.”
Tajikistan
H.E. Mr. Akil Akilov, Prime Minister
25 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Tanzania (The United Republic of)
H.E. Mr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, President
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “The recent use of chemical weapons in Syria as confirmed by the United Nations inspections team to kill innocent people is rather distressing. We condemn such flagrant and senseless killing of innocent people including children in Syria. We commend the Secretary General and the UNSC for way they handle the matter. I believe the doors for a peaceful solution to the Syrian problem are not closed and that a military solution should be the last resort.”
Thailand
H.E. Mr. Surapong Tovichakchaikul, Deputy Prime Minister
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “On the twenty-first of August, we learned that chemical weapons were usedagainst innocent civilians in Syria. Despite widespread condemnation and outrage, the United Nations was initially unable to act, the Security Council deadlocked. We therefore welcome the resolution on Syria adopted yesterday by the Security Council. We urge Syria to ensure the full and effective implementation of the resolution, and to allow monitoring and enforcement by the international community. It is our hope that the Security Council, and especially the permanent members, will continue to work together to find a durable political solution for the sake of the Syrian people.”
Timor-Leste
H.E. Mr. Taur Matan Ruak, President
25 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We welcome the agreement that was reached to put Syria's arsenal of chemical weapons under UN control prior to its destruction. Timor-Leste rejects the use of chemical weapons in all circumstances.”
Togo
S.E.M. Kodjo Menan, Ambassador
1 October 2013
[Unofficial translation]Chemical weapons: “The Syrian conflict continues, with the culmination of the use of chemical weapons on the 21 of August 2013.”
Tonga
His Majesty King Tupou VI, King
27 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Trinidad and Tobago
H.E. Mrs. Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister
25 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty, small arms and light weapons: “At the international level, we are stalwart supporters of the Arms Trade Treaty, agreed to in March of this year/ and which we have already signed and ratified. In the light of our experiences and challenges with the impact of crime, violence and the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons/ on our development efforts; we would encourage all States which have not as yet done so, to sign and ratify the ATT so that it may come into force at the earliest opportunity. In our view, the implementation of this Treaty would significantly enhance national efforts aimed at providing a safe and secure environment for citizens/ which is a contributory factor to development. ”
Small arms and light weapons: “In fact Mr President, one of our brilliant young citizens Mr Ravindra Ramrattan, a former President's Gold Medalist for academic excellence was killed last Saturday in the terrorist attack on Westgate mall in Nairobi. He no doubt fell victim to illegal guns and other weapons in the hands of murderous terrorists. His death is merely one more example of the consequences of the illicit cross border flows of small arms and light weapons which in the CARICOM context, and indeed in many regions of the world, are our weapons of mass destruction.”
Tunisia
H.E. Mr. Mohamed Moncef Marzouki, President
26 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Chemical weapons: “Imagine we would not have reached the nightmare of the Syrian people. Hundred thousand dead and so many displaced people; against the regime killing men women children with all the weapons it has been provided with including chemical weapons.”
Turkey
H.E. Mr. Abdullah Gül, President
24 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Turkey welcomes and firmly supports the US-Russian agreement to eliminate Syria's arsenal of chemical weapons. That agreement has to be translated into a tangible UN Security Council resolution. Once Syria comes clean about this arsenal, once and for all, it will be a relief for the Syrian people and the region. As Syria's neighbor, Turkey will appreciate more than most the complete and verifiable destruction of these weapons.“Nevertheless, we cannot forget that chemical weapons were used against Syrian civilians onlya month ago. The perpetrators of this crime against humanity must be held accountable and be brought tojustice. I see this agreement on Syrian chemical weapons as an opportunity. I hope it will be a first step in the formation of a security architecture to ensure the elimination of all weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East.“Yet the recent approach to the situation in Syria also raises difficult questions: Were it not for the use of chemical weapons, would the international community have continued to turn a blind eye to the deaths of more than a hundred thousand people? For how long can we afford to evade our moral responsibility to the people being killed even as we speak? This conflict neither began with the use of chemical weapons, nor will it end with an agreement to eliminate them. We therefore bluntly reject any position that is not troubled by the killing of innocent people in itself, but only by the means of such killing. Such an approach is immoral and totally unacceptable. The agreement to destroy Syria's chemical arsenal must not allow the regime to avoid responsibility for its other crimes.”“I cannot emphasize this enough: Agreement on chemical weapons must not be allowed to substitute for a comprehensive political strategy to address the situation in Syria.”
Turkmenistan
H.E. Mr. Rashid Meredov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2013
Disarmament: “Complex processes unfolding in today's world call for a responsible, thoughtful and also an effective and efficient approach from the United Nations. This is also directly linked to disarmament which is the most important problem of today. By taking an active part in the multilateral dialogue on disarmament issues our state demonstrates by its practical actions its firm commitment to the compliance with the fundamental international norms regulating the disarmament process and the non-proliferation regime. By following this course and taking into consideration the need for energizing the discussion and meaningful consideration of disarmament issues Turkmenistan proposes that a High-level international meeting should be held on disarmament issues. We are prepared to create all necessary conditions and provide appropriate infrastructure for holding this meeting in the capital of our country.”
Tuvalu
H.E. Mr. Vete Sakaio, Deputy Prime Minister
28 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Uganda
H.E. Mr. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President
24 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Ukraine
H.E. Mr. Viktor Yanukovych
24 September 2013
Nuclear energy: “The theme of sustainable energy as an item of the ‘Post-2015’ Agenda is of particular significance to us. A new, inclusive approach to this issue has to ensure comprehensive consideration of security, social and environmental aspects. Only such approach will facilitate sustainable development of energy, especially as regards efficiency and safety of its nuclear sector. This objective will equally be favoured by the further development and joint action on implementation of the outcomes of Kyiv Summit on Safe and Innovative Use of Nuclear Energy, which was held in April 2011. Ukraine, which experienced the worst nuclear accident in the history of mankind, is well aware of the priority of issues of ecological safety, comprehensive conservation of environment and prudent management of water resources.”Chemical weapons: “We welcome the Plan produced by Russia and the United States to move under control of the international community the stockpiles of the Syrian chemical weapons for their subsequentdestruction. At the same time Ukraine is convinced that successful implementation of the mentioned plangives hope to bring the conflict under control and leaves space for the political and diplomatic settlement.”Conventional weapons: “Special attention of the Ukrainian Chairmanship [of the OSCE] is focused on the settlement of protracted conflicts and resumption of control over conventional weapons within the OSCE area, combating trafficking in human beings and other most pressing issues of the Organization’s activities.”Nuclear weapons: “2014 will mark the 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s accession to the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons as a non-nuclear weapon state. By ridding of the world’s third largest nuclear arsenal, our country made an unprecedented contribution to the global nuclear disarmament. At that time Ukraine, the Russian Federation, Great Britain and the United States concludedthe Budapest Memorandum on Security Assurances confirmed later by France and China. In view of the historical significance of these events and considering recent alarming trendsin nuclear proliferation, Ukraine will initiate holding at the current General Assembly session of arepresentative thematic conference. We expect this forum will be participated by guarantor states, countries which followed Ukraine's example and other interested parties. I hope such international event will become a good opportunity to come back to the thorough consideration of ‘negative’ security assurances. We keep insisting: security assurances for the states which gave up their nuclear arsenals andcountries which do not make part of military unions must be reflected in a legally binding international document.”Nuclear security: “We are looking forward to successful Nuclear Security Summit in the Hague next year.Ukraine stands for this global forum to produce new qualitative outcomes and encourages all other countries to make proper contribution to the cause.”
United Arab Emirates
H.H. Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We are deeply concerned about the growing serious implications of this conflict on Syria and the entire region, and we strongly condemn and reject all crimes against humanity committedby the Syrian regime, especially the chemical attack against Ghouta, Damascus, which killed thousands of civilians and children. We, therefore, call upon the international community to take all necessary measures to punish the Syrian regime for its massacres against its civilians.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “There is a lot of debate about Iran's nuclear program, and many suspicions surround it. Hence, we urge Iran to constructively cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in a transparent and clear manner to dispel all suspicions surrounding its activities in order to avoid any negative consequences arising from the absence of such cooperation.”
Nuclear energy: “On the other hand, the UAE believes that peaceful use of nuclear energy has become an urgent requirement to meet the growing demand for energy. We are proud to have a successful pioneering experience in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, which is surrounded with all guarantees of security and safety. The UAB also opened the way for the production of renewable energy and development of clean energy techniques as a contribution on its part to humanity towards protecting the planet from the negative effects of climate change.”
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Rt. Hon. Nick Clegg, Deputy Prime Minister
27 September 2013
Arms Trade Treaty: “Our global response to terrorism must be robust, intelligent and cover all those areas where our work together can make a genuine difference. Alone we can take small steps forward, but together we can take giant leaps. That much was clear earlier this year when we signed the world's first Arms Trade Treaty to better regulate the global sale of weapons. The United Kingdom is proud of the role we played in delivering it and we urge any countries who have not signed to do so. This treaty reminds us that, with enough political will, we can come together and do the previously unthinkable. And that should embolden us to do more.”Chemical weapons: “On the issue of chemical weapons in Syria, the Assad regime committed a war crime under international humanitarian law on 21 August, launching a large scale chemical weapon attack on its own people -the first attack on this scale for 25 years - 88 years after such weapons were universally banned… The international community must react, and react in unison. That is why we hope to adopt later today a Security Council resolution establishing binding legal obligations on the Syrian regime, for the removal and destruction of Syria's vast chemical weapons arsenal.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “I welcome President Rouhani's comments on Tuesday that he wanted constructive engagement between Iran and the rest of the world, and to engage immediately in time-bound talks on the nuclear issue: encouraging words which I very much hope are matched with genuine action. I am pleased that negotiations on Iran's nuclear programme will restart in October. If Iran's words are followed by concrete steps, then there is a real opportunity to make progress in resolving the serious international concerns about Iran's nuclear programme.”
United States of America
H.E. Mr. Barack Obama, President
24 September 2013
Nuclear weapons: “The leaders who built the United Nations were not naive. They did not think this body could eradicate all wars. But in the wake of millions dead and (inaudible) rubble, and with the development of nuclear weapons that could annihilate a planet, they understand that humanity could not survive the course it was on.”
Drones: “These new circumstances have also meant shifting away from a perpetual war footing. Beyond bringing our troops home we have limited the use of drones so they target only those who pose a continuing imminent threat to the United States where capture is not feasible and there’s a near certainty of no civilian casualties.”
WMD: “Sectarian conflict has re-emerged, and the potential spread of weapons of mass destruction continues to cast a shadow over the pursuit of peace.”
Chemical weapons: “Assad’s traditional allies have propped him up, citing principles of sovereignty to shield his regime. And on August 21st, the regime used chemical weapons in an attack that killed more than 1,000 people, including hundreds of children.”
“How do we address the choice of standing callously by while children are subjected to nerve gas, but we’re embroiling ourselves in someone else’s civil war?”
“With respect to Syria, we believe that as a starting point the international community must enforce the ban on chemical weapons. When I stated my willingness to order a limited strike against the Assad regime in response to the brazen use of chemical weapons, I did not do so lightly. I did so because I believe it is in the national security interests of the United States and in the interest of the world to meaningfully enforce a prohibition whose origins are older than the United Nations itself. The ban against the use of chemical weapons, even in war, has been agreed to by 98 percent of humanity. It is strengthened by the searing memories of soldiers suffocated in the trenches, Jews slaughtered in gas chambers, Iranians poisoned in the many tens of thousands. The evidence is overwhelming that the Assad regime used such weapons on August 21st. U.N. inspectors gave a clear accounting that advanced rockets fired large quantities of sarin gas at civilians. These rockets were fired from a regime-controlled neighborhood and landed in opposition neighborhoods. It’s an insult to human reason and to the legitimacy of this institution to suggest that anyone other than the regime carried out this attack.
Now, I know that in the immediate aftermath of the attack there were those who questioned the legitimacy of even a limited strike in the absence of a clear mandate from the Security Council. But without a credible military threat, the Security Council had demonstrated no inclination to act at all. However, as I’ve discussed with President Putin for over a year, most recently in St. Petersburg, my preference has always been a diplomatic resolution to this issue. And in the past several weeks, the United States, Russia and our allies have reached an agreement to place Syria’s chemical weapons under international control and then to destroy them. The Syrian government took a first step by giving an accounting of its stockpiles. Now, there must be a strong Security Council resolution to verify that the Assad regime is keeping its commitments. And there must be consequences if they fail to do so. If we cannot agree even on this, then it will show that the United Nations is incapable of enforcing the most basic of international laws. On the other hand, if we succeed, it will send a powerful message that the use of chemical weapons has no place in the 21st century and that this body means what it says. Our agreement on chemical weapons should energize a larger diplomatic effort to reach a political settlement within Syria.”
WMD, nuclear weapons: “... we will not tolerate the development or use of weapons of mass destruction. Just as we consider the use of chemical weapons in Syria to be a threat to our own national security, we reject the development of nuclear weapons that could trigger a nuclear arms race in the region and undermine the global nonproliferation regime.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “In the near term, America’s diplomatic efforts will focus on two particular issues: Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons and the Arab-Israeli conflict. … I do believe that if we can resolve the issue of Iran’s nuclear program, that can serve as a major step down a long road toward a different relationship, one based on mutual interests and mutual respect.
“Since I took office, I’ve made it clear in letters to the supreme leader in Iran and more recently to President Rouhani that America prefers to resolve our concerns over Iran’s nuclear program peacefully -- although we are determined to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. We are not seeking regime change, and we respect the right of the Iranian people to access peaceful nuclear energy. Instead, we insist that the Iranian government meet its responsibilities under the Nuclear Non-proliferation treaty and U.N. Security Council resolutions.
“Meanwhile, the supreme leader has issued a fatwah against the development of nuclear weapons. And President Rouhani has just recently reiterated that the Islamic republic will never develop a nuclear weapon. So these statements made by our respective governments should offer the basis for a meaningful agreement. We should be able to achieve a resolution that respects the rights of the Iranian people while giving the world confidence that the Iranian program is peaceful.
“But to succeed, conciliatory words will have to be matched by actions that are transparent and verifiable. After all, it’s the Iranian government’s choices that have led to the comprehensive sanctions that are currently in place. And this not -- is not simply an issue between the United States and Iran. The world has seen Iran evade its responsibilities in the past and has an abiding interest in making sure that Iran meets its obligations in the future. But I want to be clear. We are encouraged that President Rouhani received from the Iranian people a mandate to pursue a more moderate course, and given President Rouhani’s stated commitment to reach an agreement, I am directing John Kerry to pursue this effort with the Iranian government in close cooperation with the European Union, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia and China.
“The roadblocks may prove to be too great, but I firmly believe the diplomatic path must be tested. That while the status quo will only deepen Iran’s isolation, Iran’s genuine commitment to go down a different path will be good for the region and for the world, and will help the Iranian people meet their extraordinary potential in commerce and culture, in science and education.”
Uruguay
H.E. Mr. José Mujica, President
24 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]
Military spending: “Each minute two million dollars are spent on military budgets in the world, medical research in the planet is just a fifth of the research and development of the military. This process ensures hatred and fanaticism,, sources of wars which also spend fortunes.”
Uzbekistan
H.E. Mr. Abdulaziz Kamilov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
No relevant comments.
Vanuatu
H.E. Mr. Moana Carcasses Kalosil
28 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “We join many other Peace loving nations to call for an end to the conflict and for the UN to do more to strongly enforce the international ban on the use of Chemical Weapons. On the other hand, we commend the United States of America and the Russian Federation for taking a strong leading role in the issue of Syria and in addressing the Chemical weapons issue in Syria.”
Venezuela
H.E. Mr. Elías J. Jaua Milano, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2013
[Unofficial translation]WMD: “The Venezuelan nation is proud to be part of a region free of any weapons of mass destruction and reaffirms its commitment to the promotion of the total elimination of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, as a way to guarantee the preservation of life on the planet.”Drones: “Why is the use of unmanned aircrafts, known as drones, that have caused tens of thousands of innocent victims, including children, and elderly in North Africa, the Middle East or in regions of Asia, not considered a crime against humanity?”
Viet Nam
H.E. Mr. Nguyen Tan Dung, Prime Minister
27 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “Whilst peace, cooperation and development are the dominant trend, the threat of war is ever present. Violence in the Middle East and North Africa is a grave concern; the latest instance in Syria where the use of chemical weapons needs to be strongly condemned.”
Zambia (The Republic of)
H.E. Michael Chilufya Sata, President
24 September 2013
Cluster munitions: “In closing, allow me to express Zambia’s gratitude for the support received in the recent hosting of two important UN conferences, namely the 20TM session of the UNWTO General Assembly and the fourth meeting of states parties of the Cluster Munitions Convention (4MSP).”
Zimbabwe
H.E. Mr. Robert Mugabe, President
26 September 2013
Chemical weapons: “we applaud the consultations and negotiations on the eventual destruction of the chemical weapons in Syria.”
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