UNGA Disarmament Index 2015
The 70th General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly will be held from 28 September–6 October 2015. 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.
UN General Assembly President
H.E. Mogens Lykketoft, President of the 70th General Assembly
28 September 2015
Military spending: “Our ambition will only be realized in a world of peace and security and respect for human rights - not in a world, where investment in armament and wars more and more absorb and destroy a huge share of the resource.”
Nuclear, chemical, biological weapons: “Tensions between major powers increase, as do investments in all kinds of armaments. Vast arsenals of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons still exist, and disarmament negotiations in Geneva have been stalled for years.”
Nuclear weapons: “We must remember that all too many nuclear warheads are on high alert, and we have not even eliminated risks of nuclear conflicts by mistake.”
UN Secretary-General
H.E. Ban Ki Moon, Secretary General of the UN
28 September 2015
Military spending: “The world continues to squander trillions in wasteful military spending. Why is it easier to find the money to destroy people and planet than it is to protect them?
Arms trade: "But it is not enough to look only within Syria for a solution. The battle is also being driven by regional powers and rivalries. Weapons and money flowing into the country are fuelling the fire."
Iran's nuclear programme: "I commend the landmark nuclear agreement between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the P5+1 countries. Dialogue and patient diplomacy have paid dividends."
DPRK's nuclear programme: "Now is the time for renewed dialogue to address continuing tension on the Korean peninsula. I call on the parties to refrain from taking any action that may increase mistrust, and urge them to instead promote reconciliation and efforts towards a peaceful, de-nuclearized peninsula."
Explosive weapons in populated areas: "Innocent Syrians pay the price of more barrel bombs and terrorism."
"In Yemen, 21 million people -- 80 per cent of the population -- need humanitarian assistance.
All sides are showing disregard for human life – but most of the casualties are being caused by air-strikes. I call for an end to the bombings, which are also destroying Yemeni cities, infrastructure and heritage."
Afghanistan
H.E. Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, Chief Executive
28 September 2015
Cyber security: “As we expand the horizons of democratic governance, and privacy and human rights, we also face challenges from criminality, cyber hacking and unwarranted intrusion. It is only through discourse, dialogue and agreements that we can address these 21 st century demands.”
Arms transfers: "Another fact is clear to Afghans across the board: were it not for external support systems, access to arms and munitions, rest areas and hospitals, and funding and training, as part of strategic collusion with powerful elements in our neighborhood, this guerrilla style low-intensity warfare would have been history by now.”
Albania
H.E. Mr. Edi Rama, Prime Minister
2 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Andorra
H.E. Mr. Antoni Marti Petit, Head of Government
2 October 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “Por eso, Andorra aplaude el acuerdo al que han llegado recientemente los Estados Unidos de America e Irán sobre la cuestión nuclear. Un acuerdo que demuestra que --por mas alejadas que puedan estar las posiciones- siempre hay margen para la cooperación y la concordia”
UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION: “So , Andorra welcomes the agreement recently reached the United States of America and Iran on the nuclear issue . An agreement shows that --by far more likely to be the ways- there is always room for cooperation and harmony”
Angola
H.E. Mr. Manuel Domingos Vicente, Vice-President
1 October 2015
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Angola warmly welcomes the agreement concluded between the six powers and the European Union and the Islamic Republic of Iran on the Iranian nuclear program. Such development is evidence that any dispute, however difficult and complex, may have political solutions. This is particularly notable in the case of a region where diplomacy has, in recent decades, been systematically passed over.”
Antigua and Barbuda
H.E. Gaston Browne, Prime Minister
2 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Argentina
H.E. Mrs. Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, President
28 September 2015
Statement not yet available.
Armenia
H.E. Mr. Serzh Sargsyan, President
29 September 2015
Military spending, militarism: “It is strange - Isn’t it?- that in the 21 century our neighbor day in and day out, relentlessly and indefatigably takes pride in excessive accumulation of arms and manifold expansion of the military budget; it stubbornly continues making bellicose threats to renew the military hostilities and does it at the highest level of the head of state.”
Austalia
H.E. Ms. Julie Bishop, Minister of Foreign Affairs
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Austria
H.E. Mr. Sebastian Kurz, Minister of Foreign Affairs
1 October 2015
Nuclear weapons: “In this sense one key area for us is nuclear disarmament. The NPT Review Conference last May failed to reach an agreement. But there is a growing international momentum on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. At this conference I delivered a joint statement on the humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons on behalf of 159 States. And the Vienna Conference on the Humanitarian Impact of Nuclear Weapons last December resulted in a Humanitarian Pledge which has been endorsed by 116 States! Austria, together with co-sponsors, will table several resolutions on the humanitarian initiative. We hope that they will receive broad support.”
“70 years after Hiroshima and Nagasaki, nuclear weapons still pose one of the most serious threats to humankind. I can assure you that Austria will fight for a world free of nuclear weapons to make our world a safer place!”
Iran's nuclear programme: “We remain committed to act as a place for international dialogue, such as the Iran nuclear talks that took place in Vienna this year.”
Azerbaijan
H.E. Mr. Elmar Mammadyarov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
30 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Bahamas
H.E. Mr. Frederick Mitchell, Minister of Foreign Affairs
1 October 2015
Arms trade, small arms: “We must stop the escalating crime and violence from drug trafficking, human trafficking and smuggling, and juvenile gangs. That is why we have been so strong in our support of the Small Arms Trade Treaty. The carnage of our young people, because of the easy availability of guns to young males in particular, is not acceptable and is unsustainable.
“The Bahamas was pleased to have participated actively in the recent First Conference of States Party to the Arms Trade Treaty held in Mexico in August last. While we are disappointed that the ATT Secretariat will not be located in our region, in our sister CARICOM country of Trinidad and Tobago, we, nevertheless, are committed to the full and effective implementation of the ATT. We call on the producers of these weapons to do more, though, to stop their illegal export to our region and end the carnage. As Mr. Manley rightly pointed out, the developed world will not be immune if the matter is not brought under control.”
Bangladesh
H.E. Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Barbados
H.E. Mr. Freundel Stuart, Prime Minister
2 October 2015
Arms trade: “In 2013 the United Nations adopted the Arms Trade Treaty to regulate the international trade in conventional weapons, with the expectation that itwill contribute to the prevention and eradication of the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons. Through the determined efforts of the countries of the Caribbean Community and other like-minded states, small arms and light weapons and their ammunitions, parts and components were included in the scope of the Treaty. Barbados was therefore pleased to ratify the Arms Trade Treaty in May of this year.”
WMD: “In July of this year, under the presidency of New Zealand, the Security Council held its first ever open debate on the particular peace and security challenges facing small island developing states. At that meeting, Barbados indicated that it always has and continues strongly to oppose the proliferation and use of nuclear, biological and chemical weapons.”
Small arms, arms trade: “However, for countries like Barbados, the real weapons of mass destruction are small arms and light weapons and our focus is necessarily on the trade in these weapons, which often goes arm-in-arm with the traffic in illicit drugs and other organised crime. Both have the capacity to seriously undermine our economies and destabilise our societies. Barbados welcomes the initiative and persistence that made possible the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty, and commits to playing its part in addressing global peace and security challenges.”
Belarus
H.E. Mr. Alexander Lukashenko
28 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Belgium
H.E. Mr. Charles Michel, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: "Les accords de paix en Colombie, l’accord sur le nucléaire iranien ou encore la reprise des relations diplomatiques avec Cuba montrent que le dialogue et le respect produisent des résultats tangibles."
UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION: "Peace agreements in Colombia, the agreement on Iran's nuclear or resume diplomatic relations with Cuba show that dialogue and respect produce tangible results."
Belize
H.E. Mr. Wilfred Elrington, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
2 October 2015
Iran’s nuclear programme: “We welcome the unanimous support for the Security Council decision to terminate seven resolutions that inflicted sanctions on Iran upon receipt by the Council of a report from the International Atomic Energy Agency.”
Arms trade: “We call upon powerful arms-producing states to refrain from selling arms and weapons to those who use them to oppress others, and to warlords in war-torn countries.”
Benin
H.E. Mr. Lionel Zinsou, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: "Le Benin se félicite a cet égard, de l'accord intervenu, le 14 juillet 2015 a Vienne, aprés plus de douze (12) ans de négociations, entre la Republique Islamique d'lran et les P5+1 sur la question du nucleaire. II s'agit la d'un compromis historique, qui preserve le droit inalienable de tous les Etats a l'usage pacifique de I'énergie nucléaire pour la satisfaction des besoins et de la quête aux mieux-être de leurs peuples."
UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION: "Benin welcomes in this regard to the Agreement acted, July 14, 2015 in Vienna, after more than twelve (12) years of negotiations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the P5 + 1 on the nuclear issue. It is the historic compromise that preserves the inalienable right of all States to peaceful uses nuclear energy for the satisfaction of needs and the quest for well-being of their peoples."
Bhutan
H.E. Mr. Damcho Dorji, Minister of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2015
Nuclear weapons: “Over the last seven decades, the United Nations has delivered much that is promised in its Charter and it is only befitting that we pay tribute to its achievements…. From combatting climate change and reducing extreme poverty to preventing the spread and use of nuclear weapons.”
WMD: “For every day we are confronted with compelling evidence that shows we are far from achieving our quest for peace, security, prosperity and human dignity for all…. Whether it is conflicts and acts of terrorism; or the unthinkable stockpiles of weapons of mass destruction.”
Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Mr. Dragan Čović, Chairman of the Presidency
1 October 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “Bosnia and Herzegovina welcomes the extremely important agreement on the Iranian nuclear program, reached in Vienna in July 2015.”
Botswana
His Honour Mokgweetsi E.K. Masisi, M.P., Vice President
1 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Brazil
H.E. Dilma Rouseff, President
28 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “We also celebrate the recent agreement reached with Iran, which will allow that country to develop nuclear energy for peaceful purposes and restore the hope of peace for the whole region.”
Brunei Darussalam
H.M. Mr. Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di Pertuan
30 September 2015
Weapons of mass destruction: “Today, its mandate has gone beyond this to include emerging challenges and evolving threats such as proliferation of weapons of mass destruction; climate change; pandemic diseases; terrorism; and violent extremism.”
Bulgaria
H.E. Mr. Rosen Pleveneliev, President
30 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme:”Bulgaria has consistently supported diplomacy as the only way to resolve the issue of the Iranian nuclear program. We welcome the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and hope that all the measures agreed therein will be fully and timely implemented.”
Cabo Verde
H.E. Mr. José Maria Pereira Neves, Prime Minister
1 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Cambodia
H.E. Mr. Namhong Hor, Deputy Prime Minister
1 October 2015
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Cambodia also welcomes the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action over the nuclear program between Iran and the P5 plus Germany. Cambodia shares the view that this Agreement will not only become a turning point in Iran-US relations, but also create an atmosphere conducive to regional peace, security and political stability.”
Canada
H.E. Mr. Daniel Jean, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs
3 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Chile
H.E Michelle Bachelet Jeria, President
28 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Colombia
H.E. Mr. Juan Manuel Santos Calderón, President
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Costa Rica
H.E. Mr. Luis Guillermo Solís Rivera, President
30 September 2015
Explosive weapons in populated areas, chemical weapons, cluster munitions: “I also say this because of the millions of Syrians, who have been displaced in historic proportions, or the thousands more that continue to risk their lives at sea to escape death in the form of chemical weapons, barrel bombs and cluster munitions, the use of which is categorically condemned by Costa Rica.”
Explosive weapons in populated areas, chemical weapons, cluster munitions, armed drones: “Let us protect innocent civilians who are deliberately targeted and are victims of unspeakable crimes of sexual violence, attacks with chemical weapons, cluster munitions, armed drones and barrel bombs.”
Arms trade, small arms: “The commitment to maintain international peace and security is also reaffirmed by all the permanent members of the Security Council; however, at the same time, they are the largest producers and exporters of conventional weapons in the world. The serious issue with this is that, despite the express prohibitions in the Arms Trade Treaty, these countries continue to conduct international arms transfers, including small and light weapons, to conflict areas. The express prohibitions on transfers of conventional arms of the Treaty exist to prevent human suffering and to save lives. They are not there to be ignored. Costa Rica calls on the States that have signed the Arms Trade Treaty to ratify it, and on those who have ratified it to work, without delay, for its full and effective implementation.”
Nuclear weapons: “Furthermore, nuclear weapon States, including the permanent members of the Security Council, have violated their unequivocal commitment to nuclear disarmament in light ofArticle VI of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. They argue that the current security setting is not suitable for nuclear disarmament and cling to the traditional paradigm of State security that keeps 16,000 nuclear warheads in the world, many on high alert and susceptible to cyber-attacks. “Compliance with Article Vl is not conditional or optional: it is mandatory. Nuclear disarmament cannot be postponed any further. The fact that 115 States have signed the Humanitarian Pledge demonstrates the conviction of the international community to place nuclear weapons on an equal footing with other weapons of mass destruction, weapons that are subject to prohibition by specific treaties. Costa Rica calls for more States to endorse the Humanitarian Pledge and to fill the legal gap to prohibit and eliminate the nuclear threat once and for all.” Disarmament and development: “This was demonstrated during the entire negotiating process that led to the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, in which Costa Rica shared its experience in conservation, environmental protection, unilateral disarmament and leadership in the transformation towards a model of sustainable development.”
Armed drones: “We are also distressed by the growing use of armed drones outside of conflict zones and the reinterpretation by several governments of human rights and humanitarian principles. For my country, it is urgent that we take action to better understand this matter and to address all of its implications. It is here, at the United Nations, through the existing disarmament bodies, where we must begin to adopt measures that increase transparency and ensure accountability of their use.”
Disarmament: “Let us urge the permanent members of the Security Council to provide coherence and consistency in Rule of Law and International Law, arms control and nuclear disarmament, to name three examples.”
Croatia
H.E.. Mrs. Kolinda Grabar-Kitaroviÿ, President
30 September 2015
Cluster munitions: “The uncontrolled spread of conventional weapons represents another significant threat to security and stability. In that respect Croatia is proud to preside over the First Review Conference to the Convention on Cluster Munitions, which are among the most insidious types of weapons that continue to be a threat long after the conflict ends. It is no coincidence that the Conference took place in Dubrovnik, a city that suffered attacks from these kinds of weapons in the Homeland War.”
Nuclear weapons: “This is why we regret that the Review Conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty did not produce the much needed results. Croatia believes, that this Treaty continues to be the most effective multilateral instrument for preventing nuclear proliferation and achieving nuclear disarmament.”
Iran's nuclear programme: “On the positive side, we are pleased to note the resolution of the negotiations on the Iranian nuclear program. We congratulate all the parties involved in the talks on their determination and political will to resolve the issue that has been burdening international relations for so long. This is a major victory for diplomacy. We expect that the following months will prove to what extent the removal of nuclear threat has contributed to the vitally important stabilisation of the Middle East and beyond.”
Arms trade: “Another milestone in international security has been achieved by the entry into force of the Arms Trade Treaty. This legally binding instrument establishes, for the first time, minimal standards in the trade of conventional arms on a global level. Croatia is proud to be among the leading countries in ratifying and putting into effect this milestone Treaty.”
Cuba
H.E. Mr. Raúl Castro Ruz
28 September 2015
Cyber security: “The militarization of cyberspace, and the covert and illegal use of information and communications technologies to attack other States is unacceptable.”
Militay spending: “The pledge made in 1945 ‘to promote social progress and better standards of life for the peoples, along with their economic and social development, remains an illusion when 795 million people go hungry, 781 million adults are illiterate, and 17 thousand children perish every day from curable diseases, while annual military expenses worldwide amount to more than 1.7 trillion dollars. Barely a fraction of that figure could resolve the most pressing problems afflicting humanity.”
Militarism: “We reaffirm our rejection of the intention to expand the presence of NATO up to the Russian borders.”Iran’s military programme: “We welcome the so-called nuclear agreement with the Islamic Republic of Iran, which proves that engagement and negotiation are the only effective tools to settle disputes between States.”
Cyprus
H.E. Mr. Nicos Anastasiades, President
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Czech Republic
H.E. Mr. Miloš Zeman, President
29 September 2015
Statement not yet available.
Democratic People's Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. Ri Su Yong, Minister of Foreign Affairs
1 October 2015
Nuclear weapons: “At present, nearly 40,000 massive US troops are stationed in south Korea, outnumbering its troops in any other foreign country. The US commander in south Korea is also wearing the cap of the ‘UN Commander.’ The large-scale nuclear war exercises held several times every year by the United States and south Korea during the past seven decades are commanded by this very ‘UN Commander.’”
“Also nine countries in the world have already developed and conducted over 2,000 nuclear tests in total. But again, the Security Council adopted ‘resolutions’ on prohibiting nuclear test of the DPRK which conducted nuclear tests only three times.”
“Our development of outer space for peaceful purposes is a legitimate right of a sovereign state and our nuclear test is a self-defensive measure to cope with the hostile policy and nuclear threat of the United States.”
Denmark
H.E. Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Prime Minister
28 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Djibouti
H.E. Mr. Ismaël Omar Guelleh, President
30 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Egypt
H.E. Mr. Abdel Fattah Al Sisi, President
28 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Equatorial Guinea
H.E. Mr. Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, Vice- President
30 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Eritrea
H.E. Mr. Osman Mohammed Saleh, Minister of Foreign Affairs
3 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Estonia
H.E. Mr. Toomas Hendrik Ilves, President
29 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “We also witnessed a positive development recently. Let us hope that the historic agreement on Iran nuclear programme will pave the way towards more stability in the broader Middle East.”
Ethiopia
H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, Prime Minister
28 September 2015
No disarmament references.
European Union
H.E. Mr. Donald Tusk, President of the European Council
29 September 2015
Explosive weapons in populated areas, chemical weapons: “We all want to see stable states in the region; stabilisation is a value beyond any dispute. But stability cannot be won with barrel bombs and chemical weapons used against civilians.”
Fiji
H.E. Mr. Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Finland
H.E. Mr. Sauli Ninisto, President
29 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “Let me add, that this year also marks a major success of international diplomacy: the historic agreement reached on the Iran nuclear programme. We look forward to the swift implementation by Iran of all the nuclear-related measures and its full engagement with the International Atomic Energy Agency to resolve all outstanding issues.”
France
H.E. Mr. François Hollande, President
28 September 2015
Explosive weapons in populated areas: “Et les réfugiés, ceux dont on parle aujourd'hui, ceux qui sont dans les camps, les déplacés, ils sont huit millions, cette masse de femmes et d’hommes, d’enfants, n’a pas fui simplement une guerre, elle a fui depuis plus de trois ans le régime de Bachar EL-ASSAD et encore aujourd'hui, c’est ce même régime qui déverse des bombes sur des populations civiles innocentes.”
UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION: “And refugees, those we are discussing today, those who are in the camps, the displaced, they are eight million, this mass of men and women, of children, not just fled a war it fled more than three years since the regime of Bashar el-Assad and still today, this is the same regime that pours bombs on innocent civilians.”
Gabon
H.E. Mr. Muhammadu Buhari, President
28 September 2015
Small arms: “Dans ce même registre, je mentionnerai aussi la declaration presidentielle du Conseil de securitee de I'ONU sur la circulation illicite des armes legeres et de petit calibre en Afrique Centrale.”
UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION: "In this same vein , I also mention the presidential declaration of UN Security Council on the illicit circulation of small arms and small arms in Central Africa."
Nuclear weapons, Iran's nuclear programme: “La lancinante question de la menace permanente que fait peser l’accumulation excessive des armes de destruction massive, parmi lesquelles les armes nucleaires, ne peut trouver une solution que dans le cadre des mecanismes multilateraux, telle que la Conference du desarmement nucleaire. Mon pays reste fermement engage en faveur du systeme international de non proliferation tel que consacre par les instruments pertinents comme le TNP. C'est pourquoi je salue le recent accord intervenu entre la Communaute internationale et la Republique islamiste d'lran, concemant son programme nucleaire.”
UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION: "The nagging question of the continuing threat posed by the excessive accumulation of weapons of mass destruction, including the nuclear weapons, cannot find a solution within the framework of multilateral mechanisms, such as the Conference on Disarmament. My country remains firmly committed to the international system of non- proliferation as enshrined in the relevant instruments such as the NPT. That is why I welcome the recent agreement between the International Community and the Islamic Republic of Iran , concerning its nuclear program."
Gambia
H.E. Mr. Aja Isatou Njie-Saidy, Vice-President
29 September 2015
Statement not yet available.
Georgia
H.E. Irakli Garibashvili, President
1 October 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “In this context, I welcome the recent PS+1 Agreement reached with lran. Georgia is hopeful that the process will develop in a positive direction and contribute to greater security and economic development in the region.”
Germany
H.E. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Minister of Foreign Affairs
1 October 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “This summer the five permanent members of the Security Council and Germany concluded an agreement with Iran. After more than ten years of negotiations, we not only managed to ensure that Iran will never have an atomic bomb, and that we can verify this. We have also brought many actors, including Russia and the US, to sit at the same table. The negotiations have thus proven that while neighbours may not like each other, they can still solve problems together - indeed they must do so, if living together is not to become unbearable for them both. The agreement thus reached has created common ground on which greater security can be established in the Middle East.”
Explosive weapons in populated areas, small arms: "In Syria the slaughter knows no end. We will only stop it by acting together. We have to: • end the brutality of Assad's dictatorship, as evinced by its use of barrel bombs and torture; • breakthe control of lslamic State; • and silence the guns in Syria, and provide for humanitarian access."
Ghana
H.E. JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA, President
30 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “I am also encouraged by the historic agreement between the US and Partners on one hand and Iran on the other to curtail the development of nuclear weapons and encourage the peaceful use of nuclear technology.”
Greece
H.E. Mr. Alexis Tsipras, Prime Minister
1 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Grenada
H.E. Mrs. Clarice Modeste-Curwen, Minister of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Guinea-Bissau
H.E. Mr. João Soares Da Gama, Permanent Representative
2 October 2015
Iran’s nuclear programme, nuclear weapons: “We welcome the nuclear agreement between the International Community and [ran and hope that this will result on the normalization of relations with the rest of world, as we firmly believe that the world will be totally secure only if there is indeed a total and complete nuclear disarmament.”
Guyana
H.E. Mr. Brigadier David Granger
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Haiti
H.E. Mr. Michel Joseph Martelly, President
1 October 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “De meme, il convient de saluer la signature de l'accord intervenu entre la République Islamique d'Iran et le Groupe des Six sur la question du nucleaire iranien, ainsi que la détente qui s'en est suivie.”
UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION: "Similarly, we should welcome the signing of the agreement between the Iran and the Group of Six on the Iranian nuclear issue, and the relaxation that ensued."
Explosive weapons in populated areas: "La crise syrienne est un véritable affront a la conscience de l'humanité. Des entités non étatiques étendent quotidiennement leur emprise, se livrant notamment en Iraq et en Syrie, a des atrocités insoutenables contre les populations civiles, et a des destructions de sites du patrimoine culturel mondial. Ces menaces, d'une ampleur et d'une gravité exceptionnelles, interpellent la communauté internationale. Nous ne saurions nous dérober de l'obligation d'adopter routes les mesures collectives nécessaires pour garantir la sécurité internationale et le respect des droits de l’homme."
UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION: "The Syrian crisis is an affront to the conscience of humanity. Non-state entities extend their hold daily, indulging including Iraq and Syria, in unbearable atrocities against civilians, and destruction of sites of world cultural heritage."
Holy See
H.E. Mr. Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary of relations with States
2 October 2015
Nuclear weapons: “There is the telling example of the failure of the Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons this past May. In view of this impasse, it is all the more important that the international community and the individual States most involved clearly signal a real desire to pursue the shared objective of a world free of nuclear arms, “in full application of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, in letter and spirit, with the goal of a complete prohibition of the weapons” (ibid.).
“As Pope Francis has noted in various fora, nuclear deterrence and the threat of mutually assured destruction are irreconcilable with, and contrary to, an ethics of fraternity and peaceful coexistence between peoples and between States. The nuclear arms race, and the arms race in general, with their expenditure of human and economic resources, are based, in the final analysis, on the denial of the human dignity of one’s potential enemies, even to the denial of one’s own dignity and survival. Consequently, the process aimed at a deeper understanding of the grave humanitarian effects of the use of weapons of mass destruction, and nuclear arms in particular, is not only to be encouraged, but also to be considered necessary.”
Landmines, cluster munitions: “With regard to the humanitarian dimension, the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention and that on Cluster Munitions should also be mentioned. These are two instruments for disarmament and for adapting humanitarian law to the complexities of today’s world; they aim at stigmatizing and banning these dreadful ordnances which have such a devastating and indiscriminate impact on civilian populations. The Holy See joins all those who work for an effective implementation of these instruments, in expressing the hope that they will soon be signed by States which have not yet done so.”
Militarism: “The effective and full enactment of the principles of the Charter of the United Nations calls for replacing a mindset of rejection of others, of distrust and fear, with the ethic of responsibility. This, too, requires a reflection on the meaning of the concept of collective security, which has to do not only with war and military actions, but also with broader economic, financial, ethical, social and humanitarian dimensions.”
Hungary
H.E. Mr. Péter Szijjártó, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
3 October 2015
Statement not yet available.
Iceland
H.E. Mr. Gunnar Bragi Sveinsson, Minister of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2015
No disarmament references.
India
H.E. Mrs. Excellency Sushma Swaraj, Minister of External Affairs
1 October 2015
Nuclear weapons: “As a nuclear weapon state, India is aware of its responsibility and its support for global, non-discriminatory and verifiable nuclear disarmament has not diminished.”
Indonesia
H.E. Mr. Muhammad Jusuf Kalla, Vice-President
2 October 2015
Disarmament: “We note with concern that there is little progress made in the work of the UN Disarmament Commission.”
Nuclear weapons: “We still lack the necessary political will for nuclear disarmament.”
Small arms, arms trade: “Meanwhile, the small arms and light weapons trade, legal or otherwise, is still a multi-billion-dollar industry.”
Iran
H.E. Dr. Hassan Rouhani, President
28 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: "Security Council Resolution 2231, despite some significant shortcomings, was an important development and the basis for terminating sanctions imposing resolutions against Iran. We consider as unfair the conduct of the Security Council in the past and insist that Iran, due to the important fatwa of its leader and its defense doctrine, has never had the intention of producing a nuclear weapon and, thereÿbre, sanctions resoiut!ons against Iran were unjust and illegal. Sanctions by the SecuriPy Council and unilateral sanctions by some countries were based on illusive and baseless allegations and created difficult conditions for our people. But these sanctions never in any way affected the policy we adopted and the approach we took towards negotiations. We proved in these negotiations that there is nothing on Iran's table other than
logic, reason and ethics, and where necessary, legitimate and decisive self-defense against any kind of aggression.
"Our seven countries and the European Union expended considerable time and diplomatic capital in these negotiations and, therefore, they should exert their utmost effort to protect and implement the agreement. We deem the compliance of all parties with their commitments as the fundamental factor in the success of the implementation process of the negotiations.
"Parallel to the implementation of the JCPOA, we also expect the nuclear-weapon states to take necessary steps to fulfill their commitment of full nuclear disarmament based on Article 6 of the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Furthermore, we expect them to play a positive role in the creation of a "nuclear weapons-free Middle East" and not to allow the Zionist regime to remain the only impediment in the way of realizing this important initiative.
"The nuclear deal, which is a brilliant example of "victory over war", has managed to disburse the clouds of hostility and perhaps even the specter of another war and extensive tensions from the Middle East. The deal can and should herald a new era and lead to positive outcomes regarding the establishment of sustainable peace and stability in the region. From our point of view, the agreed-upon deal is not the final objective but a development which can and should be the basis of further achievements to come. Considering the fact that this deal has created an objective basis and set an appropriate model, it can serve as a basis for foundational change in the region.
"Our policy is to continue our peace-seeking efforts in the region based on the same winwin principle, and act in a way that would lead to all in the region and world benefitting from these new conditions. This opportunity can be seized in order to look to the future and avoid focusing on the past and rebuild our relationships with the countries in the region, particularly with our neighbors, based on mutual respect and our common and collective interests."
"We will not forget war and sanctions but we look to peace and development. Through the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, we were not solely seeking a nuclear deal. We want to suggest a new and constructive way to recreate the international order. An order based on mutual respect, non-intervention in the internal affairs of others as well as on sustained cooperation and co-existence between the members of the United Nations. To build a peaceful future, we must learn our lessons from the bitter past. We know that the only way to perpetuate peace is through development. Peace without development is merely a recess while resentment and suspicion builds. However, peace alongside development lets anger and resentment dissipate and be replaced with hope and respect for others. We have repeatedly said that the only way to uproot terrorism in the Middle East is by targeting its underlying social, economic and cultural causes. Economic interactions may bring about lasting security, and transform the region into a haven for peace and development. After the JCPOA, Iran will stand ready to show that the practical path to security and stability is through the development that comes with economic engagement."
Militarism: "We propose that the fight against terrorism be incorporated into a binding international document and no country be allowed to use terrorism for the purpose of intervention in the affairs of other countries. We are prepared to assist in the eradication of terrorism and in paving the way for democracy, and ensuring that arms do not dictate the course of event in the region."
"We must not forget that the roots of today's wars, destruction and terror, can be found in
the occupation, invasion and military intervention of yesterday. If we did not have the US
military invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq, and the US's unwarranted support for the inhumane actions of the Zionist regime against the oppressed nation of Palestine, today the terrorists would not have an excuse for the justification of their crimes."
Explosive weapons in populated areas: "With a view to fighting ignorance, dictatorship, poverty, corruption, terrorism, violence and their social, political, cultural, economic and security impacts, I would like to invite the whole world and especially the countries of my region to foml a 'joint comprehensive plan of action' to create a "United Front Against Extremism and Violence". This front must ... [inter alia] Prevent the slaughter of innocent people and the bombardment of civilians, as we!l as, the promotion of violence and killing of other human beings."
"Iraq, Syria and Yemen are all examples of crises being stoked through terror, extremism,
violence, bloodshed, invasion and the indifference of the international community. They are
similar examples displaying cases of displacement, homelessness and fleeing from the horrors of war and bombardment."
Iraq
H.E. Haider Al-Abdi, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Ireland
H.E. Mr. Charles Flanagan, T.D., Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade
1 October 2015
Nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation: “In our 60 years at the UN, we have pursued a series of policy priorities which continue to be central to our foreign policy today. These include ... non-proliferation and nuclear disarmament...”
“From our earliest days at the UN, Ireland has been passionately committed to disarmament and non-proliferation. As the first state to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in 1968
following several years work as initiator of the General Assembly Resolutions that led to its
agreement, we have a deep and abiding commitment to the full implementation of the Treaty.”
Iran's nuclear programme: "Significant progress has been made on non-proliferation. We warmly welcome the agreement reached with Iran and look forward to its full implementation. More broadly, we hope that this will also mark the opening of a new and constructive chapter in Iran's engagement in the international system."
Nuclear weapons: “Conversely, the outcome of the NPT Review Conference in May was deeply disappointing. States with nuclear arsenals have special responsibilities and Ireland will continue to press them to deliver on their commitments under the NPT.
"Today there are at least 17,000 nuclear weapons posing a threat to our very survival. We cannot accept this status quo. Ireland wants real momentum injected into the nuclear disarmament pillar of the NPT. The SDG negotiation process has underscored the very positive role that civic society groups and people around the world can play - Ireland would like to see that positivity, inclusivity and urgency in the nuclear disarmament debate.”
Arms trade: “We see daily the consequences of illegal and irresponsible flows of arms and conventional weapons in the appalling scenes of chaos and brutality into which parts of our world have descended. The scenes in our newspapers and on our TV and computer screens are truly horrific. People wonder what can be done to stem this industrial scale violence. Part of the solution is the Arms Trade Treaty - one of the international community's most significant achievements in recent years. Ireland was one of the first states to ratify the Treaty and we have offered financial support to enable wider participation in negotiations and more effective implementation. The onus is now on all States Parties to maintain the immense and sustained effort put into negotiating the Treaty. We must ensure that we live up to its great promise, with the ultimate goal of enhancing peace and security and saving lives.”
Israel
H.E. Benjamin Netenyahu, President
1 October 2015
Iran’s nuclear programme: “In the wake of the nuclear deal, Iran is spending billions of dollars on weapons and satellites.
“And for those of you who believe that the deal in Vienna will bring a change in Iran’s policy, just listen to what Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei said five days after the nuclear deal was reached: ‘Our policies towards the arrogant government of the United States will not change.’
“As the leader of a country defending itself every day against Iran’s growing aggression, I wish I could take comfort in the claim that this deal blocks Iran’s path to nuclear weapons.
“Under this deal, If Iran doesn’t change its behavior, In fact, if it becomes even more dangerous in the years to come, the most important constraints will still be automatically lifted by year 10 and by year 15. That would place a militant Islamic terror regime weeks away from having the fissile material for an entire arsenal of nuclear bombs.”
”I have long said that the greatest danger facing our world is the coupling of militant Islam with nuclear weapons. And I’m gravely concerned that the nuclear deal with Iran will prove to be the marriage certificate of that unholy union.
“The vast majority of Israelis believe that this nuclear deal with Iran is a very bad deal. If Iran’s terror proxies were firing thousands of rockets at your cities, perhaps you’d be more measured in your praise. And if this deal were unleashing a nuclear arms race in your neighborhood, perhaps you’d be more reluctant to celebrate.”
“Besides Iran’s aggression in the Middle East and its terror around the world, Iran is also building intercontinental ballistic missiles whose sole purpose is to carry nuclear warheads. Now remember this: Iran already has missiles that can reach Israel. So those intercontinental ballistic missiles that Iran is building - they're not meant for us – They’re meant for you.”
Italy
H.E. Mr. Matteo Renzi, Prime Minister
29 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “I am thinking of the hopes that each of us has in the agreement with Iran on the nuclear program to open up a phase of hope throughout the region. While we feel committed to the implementation to the agreement, we reiterate forcefully the right to existence of the people and the State of Israel.”
Jamaica
H.E. Mr. Arnold Nicholson, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
2 October 2015
WMD, conventional weapons: “Transnational organised crime and the presence of weapons of mass destruction continue to threaten international peace and security, while the proliferation of conventional arms in the hands of non-state actors poses a grave risk to many countries and regions.”
Disarmament, arms control: “I now turn to the area of disarmament and arms control, which is in danger of becoming a neglected and forgotten goal of the United Nations. Sadly, the disarmament machinery has been languishing in a state of paralysis for the past 19 years.”
Military spending: “The vast expenditures on weapons and military equipment of all kinds, which consume a massive share of the world’s resources could be more properly channeled into the development agenda that we have just adopted. By so doing, the world would not only be more prosperous, it would be much safer and more secure.”
Nuclear weapons: “We are disheartened that the international community failed to seize the opportunity provided by the 2015 Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons to make significant progress on its commitment to rid the world of nuclear weapons.
We must invigorate our disarmament efforts through new and more effective approaches. Jamaica therefore supports efforts to address the humanitarian impact of nuclear weapons and joins the strong call for the negotiation of a legally-binding instrument to prohibit their use, which is embodied in the recent Humanitarian Pledge endorsed by 114 States.”
Small arms: “Of immediate concern to Jamaica is the proliferation of firearms of every description, which endangers the lives of ordinary citizens, undermines the rule of law, threatens economic and social stability and fuels violent crime.”
Arms trade: “Those who manufacture such weapons must exercise greater controls and support anti-proliferation efforts. The Arms Trade Treaty, which entered into force less than a year ago, can make a significant contribution to such efforts. We are therefore pleased that the recent convening of the First Conference of States Parties has laid the foundation for the full and effective implementation of the Treaty.”
Japan
H.E. Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister
29 September 2015
Nuclear weapons: “Nuclear weapon reductions should proceed continually between the U.S. and Russia. But Japan will continue to assert vehemently that other states possessing nuclear weapons should also move forward in reducing their arsenals.”
“Determined to bring about the total elimination of nuclear weapons, Japan is preparing a new draft resolution to promote united action by the international community. I have no doubt that this resolution will receive the support of a large number of countries.”
“However, regrettably, in some areas there appears to be an ongoing increase in nuclear arsenals without transparency. Moreover, this year's Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) failed to indicate guidelines for future nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.”
DPRK's nuclear programme: “The first of these is regarding North Korea. Japan will work in coordination with relevant countries towards the comprehensive resolution of outstanding issues, including abduction, nuclear and missile issues.”
Jordan
H.M. Abdullah II, King
28 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Kazakhstan
H.E. Nursultan Nazarbayev, President
28 September 2015
Nuclear weapons: “I would urge that a world without nuclear weapons should be the main goal of humanity in the twenty-first century. I propose that we adopt the Universal Declaration of the United Nations to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons.”
“There is an acute need to establish nuclear-free zones in other regions of the world, particularly the Middle East. The nuclear powers must provide guarantees of the non-use of force for all countries that renounce possession of nuclear weapons.”
"We consider the creation of the Global anti-nuclear weapons movement an important task. Every person on the planet can and must contribute to the nuclear test ban.”
Nuclear energy: “This is an event of global significance and an important step towards the safe and peaceful use of the atom. The world should acknowledge it as an important measure of safe and peaceful use of the atom. Now there is no need to enrich uranium for countries wishing to develop nuclear energy.”
Kenya
H.E. Mr. Uhuru Kenyatta, President
28 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Kiribati
H.E. Mrs. Makurita Baaro, Permanent Representative
2 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Kuwait
H.H. SHEIKH JABER AL MUBARAK AL HAMAD AL SABAH, Prime Minister
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Kyrgyz Republic
H.E. Mr. Erlan Abdyldayev, Minister of Foreign Affairs
1 October 2015
Arms race: “Increasingly, we are faced with situations where some States choose to act without a UN Security Council mandate. We consider such an approach counterproductive and non-compliant with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. Further, we believe if this continues, not only will differences be exacerbated and confidence in the UN erode, but the resulting insecurity could spark a new and dangerous arms race.”
Nuclear weapons: “70 years have passed since the first use of nuclear weapons, and 45 years fiom the date of entry into force of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Yes, humanity has managed to prevent the recurrence of the use of nuclear weapons. However, as long as nuclear weapons exist, the risk of their intentional or unintentional use will exist too. We regret to note that the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty has not yet entered into force, and the 2015 Review Conference of the States Parties to the Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons ended without adoption of the most important outcome document. In these circumstances, the Treaty on Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia represents a significant contribution to the global process of nuclear disarmament. As the Depositary and the Coordinator of the State Parties to the Treaty, Kyrgyzstan expresses its appreciation to Russia, China, France and Great Britain for the ratification of the Protocol on Negative Security Assurances, and urges the United States to ratify this instrument without further delay.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “We have recently witnessed the successful completion of long-standing negotiations in the format of Iran and the "Group of Six" and adoption of the Joint Comprehensive Action Plan on the Iranian nuclear program. I want to congratulate the Islamic Republic of Iran on the occasion of this historic event. As a member of the newest nuclear-weapon-free zone, Kyrgyzstan urges countries of the Middle East to establish in the region a zone free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems. This will be a milestone in the field of disarmament, promoting peace in the Middle East.”
Lao People's Democratic Republic
H.E. Choummaly SAYASONE, President
30 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “I therefore praise all parties concerned for reaching agreement on Iran's nuclear programme, which is of historic significance.”
Latvia
H.E. Mr. Raimonds Vējonis, President
30 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “Latvia welcomes the recent nuclear agreement with Iran. Full and smooth implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Action Plan is now necessary. Only then can a change in the regional dynamics towards more engagement and cooperation, as well as greater stability in the Middle East region become a reality.”
Chemical weapons: “Those responsible for the internationally prohibited use of chemical weapons in Syria must be identified and held accountable.”
Lebanon
H.E. Mr. Tammam Salam, President
30 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “We followed with great interest the recent agreement between Iran and the five permanent Security Council members and Germany, hoping that this development will open a new page in international relations and will mark the beginning of an improvement in the regional environments, which will reflect positively on the political situation in Lebanon.”
Lesotho
H.E. Mr. Pakalitha Bethuel Mosisili, Prime Minister
1 October 2015
Small arms: “Small arms and light weapons continue to be illegally traded. These weapons are sometimes used in violent terrorist attacks.”
Nuclear weapons, WMD: “The lack of political will to rid the world of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction is obvious to all; the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) is not yet universal, while the Nuclear Proliferation Treaty (NPT) regime is at the cross roads with some nuclear capable states refusing to sign on.”
Liberia
H.E. Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Libya
H.E. Mr. Agila Saleh Essa Gwaider, Acting Head of State
30 September 2015
Arms trade: “We realize that all these terrorist and extremist groups are nothing but tools to implement policies of foreign countries which yet are still providing them with arms and ammunition.”
Liechtenstein
H.E. Mrs. Aurelia Frick, Minister of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Lithuania
H.E. Mrs. Dalia Grybauskaité, President
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Madagascar
H.E. Hery Rajaonarimampianina, President
1 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Malawi
H.E. Arthur Peter Mutharika, President
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Malaysia
H.E. Mr. Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak, Prime Minister
1 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Maldives
H.E. Mrs. Dunya Maumoon, Minister of Foreign Affairs
3 October 2015
Militarism: “Last week we adopted a new Agenda for Sustainable Development. It recognises at its core that development must be holistic. That poverty is a multi-dimensional problem. That, what matters is the human being, whose rights must be protected, and promoted. Yet here in the United Nations, we remain trapped in silos: hiding away, behind the excuse of mandates. Why is it that the Security Council must only discuss guns and bombs? Why can't the Economic and Social Council discuss war and peace? Why can't development, why can't war, have a human rights dimension? Why must issues be confined to one specific body?”
Mali
H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Boubacar Keita
28 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Malta
H.E. Mr. Joseph Muscat, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
Weapons of mass destruction: “It [the UN] has contributed towards the eradication of disease, the promotion of justice, freedom and human rights, the attainment of peace in different parts of the world, and to stemming the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.”
Military spending: “We are the only country in Europe, and probably the only around the world, that dedicates 100% of its limited military resources to saving people at sea.”
Marshall Islands
H.E.. Mr. Christopher J. Loeak, President
30 September 2015
Nuclear weapons: “Like many others, the Republic of the Marshall Islands believes that the awareness of the catastrophic impacts - and humanitarian consequences - of nuclear weapons must underpin all efforts towards nuclear disarmament.”
“This is the only time the United Nations has ever explicitly authorized the use of nuclear weapons, and the results were - and are still today - beyond tragedy.”
“It is essential for the survival of humanity that nuclear weapons are never used again, under any circumstances. The universal way to accomplish this is through the total elimination of such weapons, and I am deeply disappointed that political distractions resulted in the lack of an outcome for the NPT's review conference earlier this year. It should be our goal as the United Nations to not only stop the spread of nuclear weapons, but also to pursue the peace and security of a world without them.”
Mauritius
H.E. Mr. Anerood Jugnauth, Prime Minister
2 October 2015
Arms trade, nuclear weapons: “The spread of armaments, nuclear proliferation, terrorism and piracy remain important threats to world peace and require our constant vigilance.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “We welcome the agreement reached on the Iranian nuclear issue and seek the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action as it can contribute to international peace and security.”
Arms trade, cluster munitions: “Let me share with this august Assembly that Mauritius acceded to the Arms Trade Treaty in July this year and, yesterday, I deposited our Instrument of accession to the Convention on Cluster Munitions.”
Mexico
H.E. Mr. Enrique Peña Nieto, President
28 September 2015
Nuclear weapons: “Desde 1945, los mexicanos hemos mantenido el mayor de los compromisos con este foro -el maximo mecanismo multilateral-, abanderando la paz, el desarme nuclear y las mejores causas de la Humanidad. Por ejemplo, a raiz de la Crisis de los Misiles, Mexico im pulso el Tratado para la Proscripcion de /as Armas Nucleares en America Latina y el Caribe. Gracias a este acuerdo, las naciones latinoamericanas y caribeiias se convirtieron en la primera Zona Libre de Armas Nucleares, en una region densamente poblada.”
UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION: “Since 1945, Mexicans have maintained the highest of commitments to this mechanism -The best multilateral forum, championing peace, nuclear disarmament and best causes of humanity. For example, in the wake of the Missile Crisis, Mexico proposed the Treaty for the Prohibition of / as Nuclear Weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean. With this agreement, the Latin American nations and caribbean became the first-Weapon-Free Zone Nuclear, in a densely populated region.”
Arms trade: “Para seguir contribuyendo a la paz entre las sociedades del mundo, recientemente Mexico impulso el Tratado sobre el Comercio de Armas, que hoy es ya una realidad. Este Tratado constituye la base de un regimen internacional de control de armas convencionales, que previene su trafico ilicito y transparenta su comercio legal.”
UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION: “To continue to contribute to peace between societies world, Mexico recently momentum Treaty Arms Trade is now a reality. This Treaty is the basis of an international regime of conventional arms control, preventing its traffic transpires illicit and legal trade.”
Micronesia (Federated States of)
H.E. Mr. Peter Christian, President
1 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Moldova
H.E. Mr. Valeriu Strelet, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
Disarmament, non-proliferation: “The Republic of Moldova fully supports all measures taken by the United Nations in the field of combating international terrorism, promoting disarmament and non-proliferation, and pleads for the active participation of all member states in their implementation.”
Arms trade, small arms: “My country ratified and our delegation deposited these days the ratification instrument of the Arms Trade Treaty to the Secretary General. This Treaty should not only ensure transparency and accountability in transfers of conventional weapons, but it should also prevent illicit arms trafficking, especially to unrecognized separatist entities.”
Small arms: “Being convinced that the security deterioration "in our region imposes an effective mechanism of small arms and light weapons control, we have also engaged in implementing the UN Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons, as well as, supporting the relevant UN Security Council resolutions 2117 and 2220.”
Cluster munitions, landmines: “And today, we are pleased to state that during the last three years, with the support of our partners we succeeded in destroying all stocks of cluster munitions and anti-personnel mines.”
Mongolia
H.E. Mr. TSAKHJAGRN ELBEGDORJ, President
29 September 2015
WMD: “Today, the world faces a shocking range of new challenges on a global scale: - From weapons of mass destruction to global warming”
Military spending, WMD, gender: “When I observe a giant military exhibit, I wonder: 'What a huge amount of money and human ingenuity and time are being spent on war machines and weapons of mass destruction". With a fraction of the money and technology we spend for the "masculine war show," we could solve many of today's troubling issues."
Nuclear weapons: “We care deeply about global stability. Mongolia believes we must preserve our planet by eliminating nuclear weapons across the world. For 23 years, our country has pursued nuclear-weapon-free status."
Nuclear energy: "Any nation seeking to build nuclear power must net endanger the peace and security of their independent neighbors. We believe the solution to these challenges is engagement, rather than isolation.”
Montenegro
H.E. Mr. Filip Vujanović, President
1 October 2015
Disarmament, non-proliferation: “We support the global efforts for disarmament and non-proliferation.”
Arms trade: “We welcome the entry into force of the Arms Trade Treaty and we advocate for the effective implementation of its provisions.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Montenegro welcomes the positive outcome of negotiations on the Iranian nuclear program and the dialogue of members of the Security Council with Iran with a view to meeting international obligations and achieving a comprehensive and durable solution to the issue of Iran's nuclear activities.”
Morocco
H.H. Prince Moulay Rachid, Crown Prince
30 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Mozambique
H.E. Mr. Filipe Jacinto Nyusi, President
28 September 2015
Landmines: “As you know, Mozambique was one of the most infested countries by land mines in the world. Acknowledging the importance of mine clearance for promoting an atmosphere of peace, security and development, Mozambique has become party to the Convention on the Prohibition of Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-personnel Land Mines and on its destruction, also known as the Ottawa Convention.”
Myanmar
H.E. Mr. Wunna Maung Lwin, Minister of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2015
Disarmament, biological and chemical weapons: “During the tenure of the present government, Myanmar has stepped up to raise the profile of Myanmar in the field of disarmament. We have started with the signing of the LAEA Additional Protocol in September 2013. It was followed by Myanmar's ratification of the Biological Weapons Convention-BWC in December 2014 and the ratification of the Chemical Weapons Convention. These actions demonstrate Myanmar's dedicated commitments to the cause of disarmament.”
Nuclear weapons: “Myanmar tables every year a resolution on Nuclear Disarmament adopted by the support of a great majority of the member states. The resolution reflects our firm conviction that our world will be secured and safer without nuclear weapons. As the main sponsor of the resolution, we invite once again all member states to continue to support the resolution this year.”
Namibia
H.E. Hage Giengob, President
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Nauru
H.E. Baron Waqua, President
30 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Nepal
H.E. Mr. Prakash Man Singh, Deputy Prime Minister
1 October 2015
Disarmament, WMD, small arms: “Nepal stands for general and complete disarmament of all weapons of mass destruction as well as against illicit transfer of small arms and light weapons.”
Military spending: “Nepal wishes to see the world without weapons and all resources spent on armament urgently diverted to the cause of development for meeting the pressing needs of the people.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “We consider the normalization of relations between the US and Cuba as well as the Nuclear deal with Iran to be important indications of forward looking approaches with positive implications for the international peace and security.”
Netherlands
H.M. Willem-Alexander, King
28 September 2015
No disarmament references.
New Zealand
H.E. Mr. John Key, Prime Minister
1 October 2015
Iran’s nuclear programme: “When Council members work together, as they did with the recent agreement over Iran's nuclear capability, they can still deliver on the Council's role as set out in the Charter. The Iran deal was a notable bright spot this year. While it was negotiated in Vienna, only the Council had the power to implement it. New Zealand is proud that this occurred during our Presidency in July. Now, the deal needs to be implemented and its example needs to be followed. That is because this important agreement must become the basis for something wider – a fundamental reset of relationships, and a foundation for the resolution of other regional conflicts.”
Nicaragua
H.E. Mr. Moisés Omar Halleslevens Acevedo, Vice-President
1 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Nigeria
H.E. Mr. Muhammadu Buhari
28 September 2015
Small arms, arms trade: “We are witnessing a dreadful increase in conflicts fuelled by availability of small arms and light weapons. I call upon all member countries to demonstrate the political will needed to uphold the UN charter. For a start, a robust implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty will guarantee that small arms and light weapons are only legally transferred. Arms traffickers and human traffickers are two evil species which the world community should eradicate.”
Nuclear weapons: “ It is my hope that in the next 70 years, it will achieve control of climate, help to eliminate communicable diseases, eliminate major and local conflicts and therefore eliminate the problem of refugees, take major steps towards reducing harmful inequalities between nations and within nations and above all, eliminate nuclear weapons.”
Norway
H.E. Mrs. Erna Solberg, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
Arms trade: “The flow of arms to conflict areas and the lack of protection for civilians further increase human suffering. The Arms Trade Treaty, with its humanitarian goals, gives us an important tool for addressing these problems.”
Explosive weapons in populated areas: “The UN Secretary-General has called on parties to conflict to refrain from using explosive weapons with wide-area effects in populated areas. We support his call.”
Palestine
H.E. Mr. Mahmoud Abbas, President
30 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Pakistan
H.E. Mr. Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
Weapons: “An easing of threat perceptions through such peace efforts will make it possible for Pakistan and India to agree on a broad range of measures to address the peril posed by offensive and advanced weapons systems.”
Nuclear weapons: “As a responsible nuclear weapon state, Pakistan will continue to support the objectives of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. We have maintained the highest standards of nuclear security and have established an effective regime to ensure the safety and security of our nuclear facilities and stocks. South Asia needs strategic stability and this requires serious dialogue to achieve nuclear restraint, conventional balance and conflict resolution.”
Palau
H.E. Mr. Caleb Otto, Permanent Representative
3 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Papua New Guinea
H.E. Mr. Rimbink Pato, Minister of Foreign Affairs
1 October 2015
Small arms: “The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons still remains a serious threat to national and global peace, security and development. It is in this light that Papua New Guinea has prioritized policy initiatives and programs to curb the importation and trading of firearms.”
Paraguay
H.E. Mr. Horacio Manuel Cartes Jara, President
28 September 2015
Disarmament and development: "Paraguay reaffirms that Disarmament, Non-Proliferation and Arms Control are essential factors for international peace and security and the guarantee that the most vulnerable countries rely on, in order to secure a sustainable economic and social development."
Nuclear energy: "We thank the Member States of the International Atomic Energy Agency for their confidence in our country, having being elected unanimously, for the first time, to its Board of Governors. From that position, we will act with absolute impartiality and balance, in order to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy."
Philippines
H.E. Mr. Albert Del Rosario, Secretary for Foreign Affairs
2 October 2015
Disarmament, non-proliferation: “Today, the Philippines renews its steadfast commitment to the cause of peace and sustainable development through key priority areas and national positions ranging from climate change and the rule of law, memberships in APEC and ASEAN, disarmament and non-proliferation; to women, peace and security, migration and human trafficking, peacekeeping and UN reform.”
“Disarmament and non-proliferation have become more compelling issues for the Philippines given that 10 percent of our population live and work overseas, many in hot spots in the Middle East and Africa.”
Nuclear weapons, WMD: “The Philippines remains firm in its position on the total and complete elimination of nuclear weapons and all other Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). We will continue to voice our concerns over the humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons. We reiterate the need for balanced and immediate implementation of the 64-Point Action Plan of the 2010 NPT RevCon chaired by the Philippines, particularly for the establishment of a Middle East WMD-free zone. We also look forward to the signing and ratification of the Protocol to the Southeast Asian Nuclear Weapons Free Zone (SEANWFZ) by the P-5 states.”
Arms trade, small arms, IEDs: “On conventional weapons, the Philippines will help sustain the positive momentum created by the Arms Trade Treaty's (ATT) progress, and continue to engage in discussions on small arms and light weapons and improvised explosive devices, particularly as used by armed non-state actors.”
Poland
H.E. Andrzej Duda, President
28 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Portugal
H.E. Mr. Aníbal António Cavaco Silva, President
28 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “I welcome the agreement reached on Iran's nuclear programme. It is now up to all parties involved to ensure its full implementation.”
Oman
H.E. Mr. Yusuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs
3 October 2015
Iran’s nuclear programme: “From this stand point, my country welcomes the agreement reached between the Group of 5+1 and the friendly Islamic Republic of Iran, on the nuclear program. Despite the fact that this breakthrough took considerable amount of time and great efforts, but it constitutes a model for solving controversial and complicated issues between countries, on the basis of dialogue and negotiations and regulating of international interests. We hope that this historic agreement would reflect positively on regional and international peace and security, and pave the way for a new area of relations, based on cooperation, respect, and mutual trust.”
Nuclear weapons: “My country stresses the importance of maintaining the universality of nuclear non-proliferation regime. This can only be achieved through consolidating the three pillars of the Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT), namely, nuclear disarmament, nuclear non-proliferation, and peaceful uses of nuclear energy. In this context, we call upon the sponsors of the NPT to fully implement the Resolution of the 1995 NPT Review Conference, regarding the Middle East a free region from nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction. This will help safeguard the credibility and universality of this important treaty.”
Qatar
H.H. Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, Amir
28 September 2015
Nuclear weapons, nulear energy: “The international handling of the nuclear disarmament issues that is mired by shortcomings and double standards alarm us. A clear evidence of this is the recent failure of the Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference to render the Middle East nuclear-free zone, it was disappointing and have dented the credibility of the treaty.”
“In the this regard we emphasize our firm position that the Gulf region must be spared of any nuclear weapons' dangers or threats while recognizing the right of countries in the region to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes in accordance with relevant international rules.”
Iran's nuclear programme, WMD free zone in the Middle East: “As we look forward with hope that this nuclear agreement contributes to maintaining security and stability in our region, we further demand moving forward to disarm the entire region of nuclear arms and weapons of mass destruction.”
Republic of Korea
H.E. Park Geun-hye, President
28 September 2015
DPRK nuclear programme: “Resolving the North Korean nuclear issue should be accorded the highest priority if we are to uphold the integrity of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime and live up to the aspirations of humanity for a world without nuclear weapons.”
“A peacefully unified Korea will be a thriving democratic nation free of nuclear weapons and upholding of human rights.”
Nuclear security: “At the moment, consultations among the countries of the region are underway on a range of collaborative areas, including nuclear security.”
Romania
H.E. Mr. Klaus Werner Iohannis, President
29 September 2015
Disarmament, arms control: “I would highlight just a few of the topics that were subject of initiatives taken by Romania in the General Assembly, the Security Council or the human rights bodies: arms control and disarmament…”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Romania wholeheartedly welcomes the agreement on the Iranian nuclear file. This proves that nothing is impossible if there is a genuine political will and visionary statesmen engage into bold action. We praise the role so ably and diligently played by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The success in solving this longstanding problem proves once again the virtues of diplomacy and negotiations undertaken in good faith and with patience, with the support of the expertise developed within the United Nations system. We hope to see more spinoff benefits of this agreement in the broader context of the Middle East peace process.”
Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Vladimir Putin, President
28 September 2015
Arms trade: “In this circumstances it is hypocritical and irresponsible to make loud declarations about the aof international terrorism while turning a blind eye to the channels of financing and supporting terrorists, including the proceeds of drug trafficking and illicit trade in oil and arms.”
Rwanda
H.E. Mr. Paul Kagame, President
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Montenegro
H.E. Mr. Filip Vujanović, President
1 October 2015
Saint Kitts and Nevis
H.E. Mr. Timothy Harris, Prime Minister
2 October 2015
Small arms, arms trade: “However, if small states are to overcome the challenges posed and exacerbated by transnational criminal activities, we must work in partnership. We need the support of gun producing countries to restrict the movement of illegal guns, light weapons and ammunitions. Those who produce the fire arms must do more to stop them from reaching our shores.”
Saint Lucia
H.E. Mr. Alva Romanus Baptiste, Minister of External Affairs
2 October 2015
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Mr. President, as a global community our interests cannot be served in the morbid scenario of conflict and war. It is in that context Mr. President that Saint Lucia extends commendation to both the US administration and the Government of Iran, for working out a diplomatic solution that will manage the nuclear threat in the region for the next fifteen (15) years.”
Small arms: “This is further compounded by the increased security costs of responding to the negative impacts of the illicit trade in small arms and illegal narcotics, as well as reconstruction costs following natural disasters.”
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
H.E. Mr. Ralph Gonsalves, President
29 September 2015
Militarism: “Further, the calamitous fallout of military adveuturism, economic recklessness or environmental negligence is not confined to discrete national confines. Rather, the chickens often return to roost in far-flung, unexpected and often blameless locales. As such, more than ever, our international relations must be defined by cooperation, collaboration and decisive action.
“Seventy years ago, this United Nations was founded with a central goal of "sav[ing] succeeding generations from the scourge of war" - the very first principle enunciated in our Charter. Today, wars and the rumours of wars continue to bring untold sorrow to mankind. Too often, these wars are the product of great power arrogance and decisions based not in fact, but on wishful ideological impulses. The results of these actions and inactions almost invariably exacerbate underlying conflicts and produce unwanted global repercussions. International terrorism threatens us all, and requires concerted international cooperation. Anti-terrorist intervention must not be shaped by which side of a border the terrorist armies happen to encamp or one's ideological affinity for the governments most threatened by these barbaric hordes.”
“In this our 70th year, let us pledge ourselves to liberate our nations and our global family from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation and warfare; to emancipate ourselves from the mental slavery of discrimination and learned helplessness; to unshackle our policies from the narrow nationalism, and imperialist ambition, that constrains the limitless possibilities of the human spirit. As nations and peoples we have choices.”
Samoa
H.E. Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele MalieJegaoi, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
No disarmament references.
San Marino
H.E. Mr. Daniele Bodini, Permanent Representative
3 October 2015
Nuclear weapons: “San Marino, a strong supporter of the NPT, believes that one of the most important tasks that we have to accomplish is the total elimination of nuclear weapons, thousands of which are ready to be deployed at any time. We cannot afford to wait any longer.”
Sao Tome and Principe
H.E. Mr. Manuel Salvador Dos Ramos, Minister of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Senegal
H.E. Mr. Macky Sall, President
28 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Serbia
H.E. Mr. Tomislav Nikolić, President
30 September 2015
Military expenditure: “The responsibility does lie on those who spend on arms more than poor countries spend on food jointly.”
Seychelles
H.E. Mr. James Alix Michel, President
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Sierra Leone
H.E. Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, President
29 September 2015
Small arms: “What we see all over the world - in the refugee crises, in the fight against poverty, in the fight against trans-national organized crime, terrorism, proliferation of small arms and light weapons, piracy, violence against women.”
Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Miroslav LAJČÁK, Deputy Prime Minister
1 October 2015
Weapon of mass destruction: “Terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, poverty, diseases, disparities causing socio-economic tensions, resulting in migration - all these challenges pose vital threats to humankind...and the only difference is how quickly the catastrophe strikes..”
Slovenia
H.E. Miroslav Cerar, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: "The recent historic agreement on the Iranian nuclear issue proves that even most complex issues can be resolved peacefully. Considering this positive outcome, we hope that the Middle East peace talks will also resume soon, with a view to bring stability and security to this tormented region."
Arms trade: “Speaking of disarmament and arms control, I would like to welcome the early entry into force of the Arms Trade Treaty last December and call for its full implementation. This will allow us to effectively regulate international arms trade and thus substantially contribute to international peace and security.”
Nuclear weapons: “My country also remains committed to the goal of a world without nuclear weapons.”
Solomon Islands
H.E. Mr. Manasseh Sogavare, Prime Minister
1 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Somalia
H.E. Mr. Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke, Prime Minister
1 October 2015
Explosive weapons in populated areas: “The survival instinct of the Somali people is most evident in women: raising families whilst their homes are being bombed, walking miles without water in search of safety and burying their children whilst continuing to work to feed the rest of their family. We know what war can do.”
South Africa
H.E. Mr. Jacob Zuma, President
28 September 2015
Militarism, arms trade: “The current refugee crisis in Europe is sadly the direct result of the militarisation of civilian unrest which included the massive arming of civilians and opposition groupings in Libya and Syria and other affected countries.”
Nuclear weapons: “The failure of the Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference to reach an agreement in the year that marks 70 years since the first atomic bombs were detonated in Japan, is a major setback in our commitment to rid the world of weapons of mass destruction, and in particular nuclear weapons.”
“There can be no safe hands for nuclear weapons. The humanitarian consequences of a possible detonation of a nuclear weapon, whether intentionally or accidentally, will be catastrophic for humanity."
Iran's nuclear programme: "We welcome the recent agreement reached on the Iranian nuclear program and the recognition the right of Iran to peaceful use of nuclear energy.”
South Sudan
H.E. Mr. James Wani Igga, Vice President
1 October 2015
Disarmament: "More than any other time in our conflict riddled history, the upcoming post-conflict imperatives of resettlement, rehabilitation, and disarmament require concerted financial and technical intervention from our many good friends around the world."
Sri Lanka
H.E. MAITHRIPALA SIRISENA, President
30 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Sudan
H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Ahman 'Abd al-Aziz Ghandour, Minister of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2015
Arms trade: “In the field of the fighting cross-border crime, the Government of the Sudan signed several bilateral agreements with neighbouring countries (Libya, Chad, Central Africa and Southern Sudan), with a view to tightening border control, preventing trafficking in arms and stopping the infiltration of organized crime, including trafficking in persons.”
Suriname
H.E. Mrs. Niermala Badrising, Minister of Foreign Affairs
3 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Swaziland
H.M. King Mswati III, Head of State
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Sweden
H.E. Mr. Stefan Lofven, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
Nuclear weapons, biological weapons, chemical weapons, arms trade, small arms: "Working to keep the peace also means following through on our mutual promises of disarmament: - to pursue legal, practical and technical solutions to fully rid our world of its remaining 16 000 nuclear weapons; - to finally destroy what remains of other inhumane arms, such as biological and chemical weapons; - to realise the Arms Trade Treaty; and - to fight the spread of small arms and light weapons, including ammunition. If we sway from these goals, humanity will suffer for our faults."
Switzerland
H.E. Mrs. Simonetta Sommaruga, President
28 September 2015
Militarism, Iran's nuclear programme: “Switzerland is convinced that a purely military approach is not sufficient to resolve a conflict. Instead, all UN actions must be underpinned by a political strategy aimed at finding a lasting solution to the conflict. We have been reminded of this repeatedly, particularly during the various peace and dialogue processes conducted in Geneva -on Syria, Libya and Yemen, as well as in the context of the E3/EU +3 nuclear negotiations with Iran.”
Syrian Arab Republic
H.E. Mr. Walid Al-Moualem, Deputy Prime Minister
2 October 2015
Arms trade: “The resolutions adopted by the Security Council under Chapter VII are still only ink on paper, mentioned only in press releases and media statements, while on the ground the countries funding, sponsoring and supporting terrorism are still fueling extremism in the region. Those countries continue arming, training and sending terrorists to Syria, while being indifferent and unconcerned about the implementation of those resolutions.”
Explosive weapons in populated areas: “The terrorism of ‘Da'esh/ISIS’, ‘Al-Nusrah Front’ and other A1-Qaeda-affiliated terrorist organizations is killing the innocent, capturing women and launching mortar shells on civilians. This terrorism is cutting drinking water and destroying history and civilization landmarks, including those inscribed on the World Heritage List, which is a heritage of all humankind, the last of such crimes was the destruction of the temples of Baalshamin and Bel, and the brutal killing of archaeologists.”
“How can we ask the Syrian people to head to the ballot boxes, while they are not safe in the streets and inside their homes, while they are under the missiles and mortar shells launched by terrorist groups supported by wellknown countries?”
“Terrorism cannot be fought only from the air, and all of the previous operations to combat it have only served its spread and outbreak. Air strikes are useless unless they are conducted in cooperation with the Syrian Army, the only force in Syria that is combating terrorism. The announcement of the beginning of the Russian airstrikes in Syria, which came upon a request from the Syrian Government and in coordination with the Government, is an effective participation in the support of the Syrian efforts in combating terrorism.”
“Israel continues to attack Syria while the world is watching. Israel is arming the terrorists and treating them in its hospitals. It is helping them through its intelligence services, and supporting them to stand between it and the Syrian army across the border. When those terrorists weaken, it intervenes directly through air strikes or artillery shelling, just as Turkey did and still doing, whether in Aleppo or in Idlib; and as Saudi Arabia and Qatar are doing, and who are in a race to shed Syrian blood through their clients. The continued support for terrorists and the escalation of their attacks on citizens in most regions and cities in Syria, led to an increase in citizens' need for the basic commodities and services in many areas.”
Chemical weapons: “At the end of 2013, Syria accepted the initiative of the President of the Russian Federation, H.E. Mr. Vladimir Putin, and joined the Convention of the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, based on the need to establish in the Middle East a free zone of Nuclear Weapons and all Weapons of Mass Destruction. It also wanted to prove to the whole world its commitment to stand against any use of chemical weapons. Syria fulfilled its obligations resulting from its accession to the Convention, and completed its commitments despite the prevailing difficult situation. Were it not for the Syrian cooperation with the UN-OPCW Joint Mission, it would have not been possible to complete of the tasks of the Mission.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “The Syrian Arab Republic would like to congratulate the Islamic Republic of Iran on its steadfastness and victory in achieving the historic agreement that fulfils the aspirations of the brotherly people of Iran, recognizes the right of Iran to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, lifts the sanctions imposed against it, as well as lifts the freeze on its assets, and leads to opening up of the international arena on this brotherly country. This agreement proves that the diligent and serious diplomatic approach is able to overcome all obstacles and result in peaceful and fair solutions for thorny files.”
Nuclear weapons, WMD, nuclear energy: “Syria stresses that establishing a zone free from all weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East 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 International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). At the same time, we emphasize the right of all countries to acquire and develop nuclear technology for peaceful uses.”
Tajikistan
H.E. Mr. Emomali Rahmon, President
29 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “Peaceful settlement of the debates on the Iran nuclear program proved the enormous potential of a diplomatic method to resolve urgent problems of today. We are convinced that Joint Plan of Action on Iran's nuclear program adopted by the Security Council resolution will contribute to the strengthening of regional and international peace, stability, and mutual trust, and will be instrumental in reinforcement of the nuclear non-proliferation regime.”
Tanzania
H.E. Mr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, President
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Thailand
H.E. Mr. General Prayut Chan-o-Cha, Prime Minister
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Timor-Leste
H.E. Mr. Rui Maria De Araújo, Prime Minister
1 October 2015
No disarmament references.
Togo
H.E. Mr. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President
30 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Tonga
H.E. Mr. Samuela 'Akilisi Pohiva, Prime Minister
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Trinidad and Tobago
H.E. Mr. Denis Moses, Minister of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2015
Small arms, arms trade: “For Small States such as Trinidad and Tobago, the maintenance of international peace and security is of paramount importance. We are keenly aware that our prospects for achieving sustainable development are inextricably linked to the safety and security of our people. However, our ability to provide such safety and security is increasingly being stretched, given that Trinidad and Tobago is located in a region heavily impacted by the trafficking of small arms and light weapons, as well as its attendant ills. This illicit trade is trans-boundary in nature and is largely associated with the drug trade and its international criminal networks.”
Arms trade: “Consequently, Trinidad and Tobago and CARICOM fully subscribe to the aims and objectives of the Arms Trade Treaty, as a critical vehicle to address the scourge of the illicit arms trade. We do so because we understand all too well that the continued presence of this menace in our region can, if left unchecked, undermine our peace and security and limit our progress towards sustainable development.”
Nuclear weapons: “Trinidad and Tobago recognizes that as we celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the creation of the United Nations, the international community still grapples with the goal of the total elimination of nuclear weapons. Trinidad and Tobago and the other members of the Caribbean Community join with the countries of Latin America, in celebrating our common commitment to denuclearization through the establishment of our region as the first nuclear-free zone in the world. The disastrous humanitarian consequences of the use of the nuclear option today for a large number of people from diverse regions of the world could result in widespread suffering, dislocation of populations, increased migration, thus undermining the peace, security and development of many countries and regions. This reality should chasten all peoples and especially the leaders of countries possessing such weapons.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “Accordingly, we welcome the Nuclear Deal negotiated by the United States, its partners and the Islamic Republic of Iran. We wish to congratulate all the parties involved for the tenacity and patience they demonstrated in that complex and demanding process and challenge both sides to honour their commitments.”
Turkey
H.E. HE AHMET DAVUTOGLU, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
Explosive weapons in populated areas, chemical weapons: “The number of Syrians who fled chemical weapons, missiles and indiscriminate aerial bombardment by the Assad regime and ground assault by the terrorist organization DAESH has exceeded 4 million.”
Explosive weapons in populated areas: "His family was trying to escape from the indiscriminate barrel bombs in his town somewhere in Syria, onto an imagined land of hope, anywhere in Europe."
Tuvalu
H.E. Mr. Taukelina Finikaso, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
2 October 2015
Nuclear waste: “The blue oceans is not a sink for radio-active spillovers of nuclear wastes, it’s not a dumb for industrial and general garbage; it’s not a carpet to sweep and hide our dirt under.”
Uganda
H.E. Mr. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni
28 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Ukraine
H.E. Mr. Petro Poroshenko, President
29 September 2015
Arms trade: “For over 20 months, Russia's aggression against my country has been continuing through financing of terrorists and mercenaries, and supplies of arms and military equipment to the illegal armed groups in Donbas”
Nuclear weapons: “This time, the aggressor is Russia - neighboring country, former strategic partner that legally pledged to respect the sovereignty, territorial integrity and inviolability of the borders of Ukraine. This country used to be a guarantor of Ukraine's security under the Budapest Memorandum, whereby security guarantees were provided to my country in exchange for a voluntary renunciation of the world's third nuclear arsenal.”
Nuclear energy: “Next year we will mark the sad anniversary - 30 years since the tragedy at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Station. I would like to request you, Mr. President, to hold a special meeting of the General Assembly, dedicated to the thirtieth anniversary of the Chornobyl disaster in April 2016.”
United Arab Emirates
H.H. Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2015
No disarmament references.
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
H.E. Mr. Phillip Hammond, Secretary of State
29 September 2015
WMD: "At the same time, the rules-based international system that keeps the peace between nations is being undermined by states willing to violate the territorial integrity of others, or to breach the most fundamental prohibitions on weapons of mass destruction."
United States of Ameria
H.E. Mr. Barack Obama , President
28 September 2015
Iran's nuclear programme: “After I took office, I made clear that one of the principal achievements of this body - the nuclear non-proliferation regime -- was endangered by Iran's violation of the NPT. On that basis, the Security Council tightened sanctions on the Iranian government, and many nations joined us to enforce them. Together, we showed that laws and agreements mean something.
But we also understood that the goal of sanctions was not simply to punish Iran. Our objective was to test whether Iran could change course, accept constraints,. and allow the world to verify that its nuclear program will be peaceful. For two years, the United States and our partners -- including Russia, including China -- stuck together in complex negotiations. The result is a lasting, comprehensive deal that prevents Iran from obtaining a nuclear·weapon, while allowing it to access peaceful energy. And if this deal is fully implemented, the prohibition on nuclear weapons is strengthened, a potential war is averted, our world is safer. That is the strength of the international system when it works the way it should.”
Explosive weapons in populated areas: “We're told that such retrenchment is required to beat back disorder; that it's the only way to stamp out terrorism, or prevent foreign meddling. In accordance with this logic, ·we should support tyrants like Bashar al-Assad, who drops barrel bombs to massacre innocent children, because the alternative is surely worse.”
"Let's remember how this started. Assad reacted to peaceful protests by escalating repression and killing that, in turn, created the environment for the current strife. And so Assad and his allies cannot simply pacify the broad majority of a population who have been brutalized by chemical weapons and indiscriminate bombing. Yes, realism dictates that compromise will be required to end the fighting and ultimately stamp out ISIL. But realism also requires a managed transition away from Assad and to a new leader, and an inclusive government that recognizes there must pe an end to this chaos so that the Syrian people can begin to rebuild."
Militarism: “As President of the United States, I am.mindful of.the dangers that we face;· they cross my desk every morning. I lead the strongest military that the world has ever known, and I will never hesitate to protect my country or our allies, unilaterally and by force where necessary.
But I stand before you today believing in my core that we, the nations of the world, cannot return to the old ways of conflict and coercion. We cannot look backwards. We live in an integrated world -- one in which we all have a stake in each other's success. We cannot turn those forces of integration. No nation in this Assembly can insulate itself from the threat of terrorism, or the risk of financial contagion; the flow of migrants, or the danger of a warming planet. The disorder we see is not driven solely by competition between nations or any-single ideology. And if we cannot work together more effectively, we will all suffer the consequences. That.is true for the United States, as well.
No matter how powerful our military, how strong our economy, we understand the United States cannot solve the world's problems alone. In Iraq, the United States learned the hard lesson that even hundreds of thousands of brave, effective troops, trillions of dollars from our Treasury, cannot by itself impose stability on a foreign land. Unless we work with other nations under the mantle of international norms and principles and law that offer legitimacy to our efforts, we will not succeed. And unless we work together to defeat the ideas that drive different communities in a country like Iraq into conflict, any order that our militaries can impose will be temporary.”
Uruguay
H.E. Mr. Tabaré Vázquez, President
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Vanuatu
H.E. Mr. Meltek Sato Kilman Livtuvanu, Prime Minister
30 September 2015
No disamament references.
Viet Nam
H.E. Mrs. Nguyen Phuong Nga, Permanent Representative
2 October 2015
Nuclear weapons: “Threats to the very survival of mankind remain. The nuclear weapons arsenal, though reduced, is still capable of destroying our home planet many times over.”
Iran’s nuclear programme: “It is in such spirit that we welcome the recent progress made in addressing the Iranian nuclear issue, which is a first step towards a long-term solution that could bring peace, security and stability to the larger region.”
Yemen
H.E. Mr. Abdrabuh Mansour Hadi Mansour, President
29 September 2015
Statement note yet available.
Zambia
H.E. Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, President
29 September 2015
No disarmament references.
Zimbabwe
H.E. Mr. Robert Mugabe, President
28 September 2015
No disarmament references.
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