Disarmament Index

of high-level statements delivered in the 58th Session of the General Assembly, 2003

While often of a general nature, these statements map the range of positions and increased concerns on disarmament and non-proliferation issues expected to be detailed during the First Committee, starting October 6, 2003.

NGOs from around the world share the concerns of many governments about the dangers posed by weapons of mass destruction, increased military expenditures and the trade in armaments. The ongoing conflicts in over 35 countries, as well as global concerns about terrorism, have made the work of the First Committee even more urgently relevant. NGOs will continue to offer analysis and constructive input while providing public education on the work of the United Nations General Assembly. We look forward to working closely with official governmental delegations, United Nations staff and the broad NGO community in this 58th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

These statements were delivered
September 23- October 3, 2003.

Click on a country:

Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Angola, Antingua and Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Canada, Cape Verde, Chad, Chile, China, Colombia, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Estonia, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Gabon, Gambia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Macedonia, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Monaco, Mongolia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Republic of Moldova, Romania, Russian Federation, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Serbia and Montenegro, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Tonisia, Turkey, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Vietnam, Zimbabwe.

Afghanistan
H.E. Mr. Hâmid Karzai, President
September 23, 2003

Conventional Arms: “Like any post-war society, the need for security and removing the threat of arms and armed factions is a compelling issue for all Afghans. Our people demand the establishment of truly national and competent institutions, notably the Army and the Police. Afghans want state institutions that are professional and representative; and an administration that is efficient and free of corruption. The Afghan people want tolerance for other religions, protection of human rights, and affirmative actions to promote the rights of women.”

Conventional Disarmament: “After an arduous process of restructuring, we have just completed the Reform of the Ministry of Defense. This step is now paving the way for the implementation of the nation-wide programme on Disarmament, Demobilisation and Re-integration (DDR) which will begin in earnest in mid October with assistance from Japan.”

Terrorism: “The struggle against production and trafficking of narcotics continues. We see a direct connection between narcotics and terrorism, and it is our absolute national interest to fight both. Both are transnational challenges. We in the region and in the international community must make the strategic decision, in the spirit of true partnership, to fight both menaces.”

"…While achievements are significant, and challenges inevitable, today in this grand forum, I point to what can potentially amount to a critical threat, the ongoing threat of terrorism. The crisis in Afghanistan may well be over, but the forces of violence are still looming. Embodied in various manifestations, from cross-border militant infiltrations to hateful teachings at places disguised as madrassas, terrorism continues to make inroads into the space of peace and prosperity which we want to secure for our nation.

Albania
H.E. Mr. Alfred Moisiu, President
September 25, 2003

Terrorism and WMD: “Albania did not hesitate to join the US-led coalition against international terrorism. Albania has hitherto signed up twelve international Conventions and Protocols on the war against terrorism. It is working closely with the neighboring countries, other countries at large and with international bodies with a view to doing away with the sources that could possibly nourish various forms of terrorism.

"We underscore the need for vigilance, coordination and reaction in face of the present threats posed by possession of weapons of mass destruction. These weapons, be it chemical, biological or nuclear, become even more dangerous in the hands of terrorists.”

Algeria
H.E. Abdelaziz Bouteflika, President
September 24, 2003

Terrorism: “Among the challenges faced by the international community, I will dwell with terrorism first, because preventing and combating terrorism still require a high level of vigilance, mobilization and multifaceted cooperation at the national, regional and international levels. At the risk of repeating ourselves, we will continue to warn against all misconceptions and the tendentious association of terrorism with a religion, a civilization, or a geographical area. Equally, we need to agree upon an accurate definition of terrorism so as not to affect liberation struggles and the legitimate right of peoples to self-determination. Such a clarification should be brought forward as part of the draft global convention against terrorism currently on the international agenda. Launching a genuine dialogue among cultures and civilizations will help, on its part, the rapprochement and understanding among peoples, by combating prejudice and narrow-minded perceptions.”

Andorra
H.E. Mr. Marc Forné Molné, Prime Minister
September 25, 2003

Arms spenditures: “Many things have happened since those days and Andorra doesn't even put four dollars and fifty cents towards'its defense budget. We don't spend a cent.

"With what is squandered in new and old weapons, the whole of mankind could live correctly. We could eliminate illness. Education and culture would be made available for all. This way we could end fanaticism, and all those who abuse the ignorance of the people, would end up with no victims nor lackeys.”

Nuclear weapons: “And perhaps most dangerously, nuclear weapons threaten the life of everyone on the planet. All of these calamities, here already or forecast, demand international cooperation if we are to survive.”

Angola
H.E. Dr. Joao Bernardo De Miranda, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 26, 2003

Conventional weapons proliferation: "The prevalence of conflicts in Africa is a result not only of the divisions inherited from the post-colonial period and the cold war or of ethnic and religious differences. It is also a consequence of factors such as the fragility of national institutions, the marginalization of the African Continent from the world economy, the illegal exploitation of natural resources and the consequent arms proliferation and the weak monitoring of national borders."

International Security: "We urgently need to have an integrated system capable of dealing effectively with the major threats to the to international stability in the onset of this 21st century, specifically terrorism and international organized crime; weapons of mass destruction; the internal conflicts, which unfortunately still plague our continent in particular; generalized poverty and HIV/AIDS."

Terrorism: "Terrorism is today the most direct threat to the security of our countries, as one can conclude from the attacks that in the last two years killed thousands of civilians in the United States, in Russia, in Africa and in Asia."

Antigua and Barbuda
H.E. Dr. Patrick A. Lewis, Ambassador
October 1, 2003

Disarmament and non-proliferation: "…We continue to press for the revitalisation of the process of disarmament, nonproliferation of nuclear weapons, and general arms control."

Argentina
H.E. Dr. Néstor Carlos, President
September 25, 2003

Terrorism: “Hunger, illiteracy, exclusion and ignorance are some of the basic ingredients that breed conditions for the proliferation of international terrorism or for the development of dramatic mass processes of true national migration, which have a resulting cultural, social and economic impact and, as an inevitable consequence, the impairment of the value of security for central countries.”

Armenia
H.E. Mr. Vartan Oskanian, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 25, 2003

Terrorism: “It is ironic and in many ways lamentable that the evil of terrorism is what has caused us to rally together. We are fully aware that no single government can effectively fight this danger alone. Unfortunately, the necessity for coherent measures and cooperation at national, regional and international levels is often stalled, as for example in our region, where a common threat that knows no borders is not only being addressed individually and in isolation, but also exploited for political reasons.”

World peace/UN reform: “This General Assembly has the chance to go down in history as not an undermined, inadequate but well-meaning giant, but as a viable instrument of world peace. The Secretary General's goals, from UN budget and financing reform to recomposing and enlarging the Security Council - are the building blocks of the relevant, responsive, comprehending world forum for international cooperation that the UN can be. We applaud his decision to empower a commission to give concrete form to the wishes of many.”

Australia
H.E. Alexander Downer, MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2003

International disarmament regime: “The major global disarmament and non-proliferation treaties remain critical to setting norms of international order. But ultimately those instruments must be enforced. States are not merely entitled but obliged to take action to uphold those norms, especially when the transfer of WMD outside internationally agreed frameworks is involved. The conviction that States must uphold international norms, particularly in relation to WMD, led Australia to join the coalition to disarm Iraq, in the same way that we have recently joined with others in the Proliferation Security Initiative.”

Virtues and limits to multilateralism: “In confronting these challenges - such as security, governance, poverty, terrorism and pandemics - collective action is likely to yield the best results, since not even the most powerful among us can bear the burden alone.

"The virtues of collective action are self-evident. But collectivism ought not serve as a mantra which is an obstacle to effective action. Sometimes the most effective means of preserving security, and indeed international law, occur alongside the traditional mechanisms of multilateral diplomacy. Australia is a strong supporter of multilateral institutions and processes, but only insofar as they are a means to an effective end.”

Terrorism: “Despite the war on terror - a war we are winning - terrorism continues to be a scourge to which neither age, nationality, religion, or political affiliation provides immunity. It takes a considerable act of imaginative engagement to see these new forms of nihilism for what they really are. They are a negation of civilization and the discourse that sustains it.

"…We cannot allow terrorists to succeed in determining the course of world events. We must overwhelm their efforts to disrupt global security and prosperity, to undermine democratic countries or destabilize nation-building.

"…Australia has built with its neighbors a network of bilateral counter-terrorism arrangements. These enhance practical, operational-level liaison between regional security, intelligence and law enforcement agencies that have seen terror attacks prevented, networks disrupted and terrorists arrested.”

Terrorism and Weapons of Mass Destruction: “Terrorism has also created a new urgency in solving a more familiar problem-the proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction. Efforts by rogue states to develop and traffic in WMD materials underpin the priority we give to non-proliferation. The possibility that WMD might fall into the hands of terrorists makes it an absolute imperative.

"Terrorism and proliferation do not occur in a vacuum, except of course a moral vacuum. It is no longer open to us to ignore the failed states which have become their incubators or the trans-national crime on which they depend. The promotion of good governance and democratization are imperatives both morally and pragmatically. They have become preconditions for international security.”

Austria
H.E. Dr. Benita Ferrero-Waldner, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 25, 2003

Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty: “Also, the Conference on Facilitating the Entry into Force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test Ban Treaty, which I had the honor to open on September 3, appealed in its final declaration to all States to sign and ratify, in particular to those 12 countries whose ratification is required for the Treaty's entry into force. Let me repeat and support this appeal!”

Conventional weapons and landmines: “To mention one more soft threat that all too frequently turns into hard facts, the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, antipersonnel landmines and unexploded ordnances; they kill millions every year. Austria is honored to take the chair of the first review conference of the landmine ban treaty to be held in 2004 in Nairobi.”

Missiles: “As a practical contribution to this cause Austria has agreed to serve as immediate central contact for the 109 subscriber states of the Hague Code of Conduct against Ballistic Missile Proliferation.”

Non-proliferation: “In the field of non-proliferation the work of the International Atomic Energy Agency and the leadership of Director General Mohamed el Baradei are essential. Last week's General Conference of the IAEA unanimously endorsed the necessity of strengthening the international nuclear safeguards system. Recent issues of compliance concerning Iran and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea have again shown the central role the IAEA.”

Terrorism: “United Nations leadership is needed more than ever to prevent and combat terrorism globally. In the UN system-wide division of labor, the Vienna based Terrorism Prevention Branch of the Office of Drugs and Crime contributes to the counter-terrorism efforts and offers valuable technical assistance to states in signing, ratifying and implementing the international conventions and protocols related to terrorism.”

" …Let us remind ourselves that the all-important fight against terrorism must not entail a lessening of hard fought-for human rights standards.”

Weapons of Mass Destruction: “Another hard threat to international security is the proliferation of arms, in particular the spread of weapons of mass destruction. What is needed is obvious: the strengthening and universalization of existing disarmament and non-proliferation control as well as of export control regimes.”

Azerbaijan
H.E. Mr. Ilham Aliyev, Prime Minister
September 24, 2003

Terrorism and Non-proliferation: “In the circumstances of the increased threat of terrorists' access to nuclear materials and technology, non-proliferation issues acquire special significance. Azerbaijan, being itself located in the region with increased nuclear threat, is particularly sensitive to this issue.”

Terrorism and the Use of Force: “While carrying out the comprehensive struggle against terror and resolving conflicts on the basis of principles and norms of international law the international community should decisively resort to force. This is the only effective way of restoring justice and ensuring the rule of law.”

Bahamas
H.E. Frederick A. Mitchell, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Public Service
October 1, 2003

Small and light weapons: "…For many of us in the Caribbean in particular, this security is being undermined by the activities of those trafficking in illegal drugs and weapons. By virtue of its geographical location, The Bahamas continues to be an unwitting transit point for illegal activities, including the illicit trade in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. What is often overlooked by those who are the consuming countries is that The Bahamas neither produces these substances, nor is it the final destination for them. However, as a transhipment point, The Bahamas is suffering from a plethora of illegal activities associated with this trade, including the deadly nexus between illicit drugs and the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons. These weapons, which are illegal in The Bahamas, are contributing to an increase in violent crime in my country, and they are undermining the economic and social fabric of our nation. We therefore welcome the convening of the First Biennial Meeting of States to review implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects, held in July of this year. At the same time, we call on developed countries to take the same extraordinary measures they use in seeking to stop drug trafficking into their countries, to stop illegal small arms from reaching our shores from their countries."

Bahrain
H.E. Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister
September 26, 2003

Disarmament: "The ongoing efforts of the international community and the United Nations to eliminate nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction, as set out in the various conventions and international instruments designed to secure these goals and achieve transparency and inspection of all nuclear activities, must be applied to all parties concerned, without exception. This vital demand has consistently been put forward in international fora by the Kingdom of Bahrain and other Arab and regional countries, so as to prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction, and to spare the Middle East their dangers by declaring the region free of such weapons."

Terrorism: "Combating terrorism has become an international obligation in accordance with the United Nations' commitment to respecting human rights, foremost of which are the rights to life and security.

"Accordingly, Bahrain has backed all international and regional efforts to combat this dangerous scourge, which threatens us all and whose effects can be felt around the world.”

Bangladesh
H.E. M. Morshed Khan, Foreign Minister
September 29, 2003

Disarmament: "Bangladesh attaches great emphasis on disarmament We believe that it is closely related to international peace and security. We also believe that it has a direct relationship with development. Bangladesh is party to all international disarmament treaties covering nuclear, biological, chemical and conventional weapons. Seeking general and complete disarmament is our Constitutional commitment. International peace and security, human security and the security of our planet have been the prime considerations in making our policy choices.

"We have supported all efforts at disarmament. We continue to believe in the value of all measures, even partial at arms control and disarmament. Our conviction has been vindicated by the progress in the control and ban of a number of weapons. The multilateral track including the Conference on Disarmament needs to be revived."

Terrorism: "International terrorism remains a scourge. In the post -September 11 context, it has taken centre-stage of our global concerns. We reiterate our unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Bangladesh is party to several international conventions on combating terrorism. We are processing accession to the remaining. We are actively involved in the elaboration of an Additional Protocol to the SAARC Regional Convention on the Suppression of Terrorism. It will strengthen the Convention by incorporating provisions including those contained in the recent Security Council resolutions, in particular resolution 1373."

WMD: "Bangladesh has renounced all Weapons of Mass Destruction - Biological, Chemical and Nuclear. The situation along the borders of the two nuclear-armed South Asian countries has been a matter of global concern. As a close neighbour, we too have a legitimate cause for concern. In this context, we applaud the Secretary-General for his recent call for elimination of all nuclear weapons. The imperatives, in view also of the threats to the existing regimes and their implications do not require elaboration in this House. We would thus urge a renewed consideration of the ICJ opinion and the report of the Canberra Commission."

Barbados
H.E. The Honorable Billie Miller, Senior Minister
September 26, 2003

Radiological materials and terrorism: "The issue relating to the passage through the Caribbean Sea of ships bearing nuclear material is still unresolved. We are, from time to time, presented with studies and analyses that seek to assure us of the safety of the ships and their cargo. Despite these assurances we all know that there is no guarantee that international terrorism will continue to ignore such a significant target or that that unthinkable accident would not occur. A major explosion on board one of these ships traversing our region would threaten the survival of surrounding States. The most acceptable solution to the problem is cessation of the transhipment of nuclear material through the Caribbean Sea since, on this issue, any risk is too high."

Belarus
H.E. Sergei Martynov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
October 1, 2003

Nuclear non-proliferation: "Belarus’ principal contribution to the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and to conventional disarmament has been universally recognized. The greater is then the concern we feel in connection with a gradual erosion of multilateral norms in disarmament and stagnation in international bodies, above all negotiation mechanisms, in charge of international security and disarmament.

"We share the appeal not to allow the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. This is a most important task. It should be noted, that for many years, Belarus has also initiated efforts not to allow new types of such weapons to appear.

"…A proper answer to this question would be ratification by all permanent members of the Security Council of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty.

"The activities of multilateral bodies in the area of disarmament should be adapted to new realities. We proceed from the assumption that the United Nations should draw a clear-cut list of priority directions in ensuring international security and generate programs to overcome real threats to mankind. Formulations of resolutions should contain clear directives to existing fora and structures in the area of international security, arms control, non-proliferation and disarmament."

Belgium
H.E. Mr. Louis Michel, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 23, 2003

International Peace and Security: “Indeed, the past year has gravely challenged the capacities of the United Nations to manage until the very end the crisis in Iraq, a crisis for which it was accountable. It saw the role of international peace and security keeping that this institution, symbol of multilateralism and stability, regards as pre-eminent being put into question…How can we make it possible for all Member States of the United Nations to become ready and able to accept the intangible nature of the Security Council's endorsement before engaging in military action?”

Belize
H.E. The Honourable Godfrey Smith, Attorney-General
September 30, 2003

Multilateralism: "Above all, let us not give up what it has cost us so much time and effort, so much blood, to bring to a modest but important stage, our multilateral system.

"All civilized nations would surely agree to this plea rather than plunge the world into barbarism.

"Multilateralism or Chaos!"

Terrorism: "In a world riddled with fear and dominated by terrorism, including State terrorism, weneed to concentrate on what needs to be done to save our humanity."

Benin
Bhutan
H.E. Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 30, 2003

International Security: "It is clear that international peace and security and eradication of poverty remain the most pressing challenges confronting the international community. What must be recognized is the undeniable but often overlooked fact that these overarching goals are inter-linked and cannot be achieved in isolation. There can be no prosperity without peace and security. At the same time, peace and security cannot be sustained if billions are deprived of the basic necessities of life. Our collective resolve to combat the menace of terrorism must be matched with an equal commitment to eradicate the scourge of poverty that afflicts more than half the world's population."

Bolivia
H.E. Mr. Carlos D. Mesa Gisbert, Vice President
September 24, 2003

Landmines: “The issue of anti-personal mines is a very sensitive one for Bolivia, not only due to mere principles inasmuch as these lethal artifacts continue ending or irreversibly damaging human lives all over the world, but also because such mines have been planted along our borders. We vehemently request the governments responsible for planting these mines to continue their destruction and prompt removal until the areas involved are totally free of mines.”

Terrorism: “Today, I take this opportunity to express on behalf of the people of Bolivia and my Government, our sorrow and solidarity in the face of the terrorist attack against the Office of the United Nations in Baghdad, that once again demonstrates the intolerance and lack of understanding of a peacekeeping mission, that is the only possible path in search of the solution of conflicts. This attempt strengthens our resolve to fight ceaselessly against terrorism in any of its forms, and at the same time shows us the need to support the joint efforts of the nations of the world with policies debated and approved at the United Nations; inasmuch as this organization and related organisms are a fundamental forum where our voice and that of all countries can be heard.”

Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Dr. Dragan Covic, Chairman of Presidency
September 29, 2003

Proliferation of WMD: "Fully aware of all the global challenges that lay in our path, we must ready ourselves for a long and exhausting struggle, step by step and one at the time, for reduction of poverty, development of undeveloped, against the evil of terrorism and organized crime, against the proliferation of the Weapons of Mass Destruction, regardless of where the battle should take place."

Botswana
H.E. The Hon. Lt. General Mompati Sebogodi Merafhe, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
September 26, 2003

Terrorism: "Terrorism, like poverty, is now the biggest threat to civilized norms of international discourse.

"…We believe that United Nations must be empowered to play a pivotal role to mobilize international consensus around measures to curb the scourge of terrorism. In this respect, Botswana remains ready to cooperate in any way possible with relevant U.N. agencies."

Brazil
H.E. Mr. Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, President
23 September 2003

International Security: “Brazil believes it has a useful contribution to make. It seeks not to advance an exclusive conception of international security- but rather to give expression to the perceptions and aspirations of a region that today is a hallmark of peaceful co-existence among its members and that it is a force for international stability.”

Terrorism: “The true path to peace is to fight hunger and extreme poverty without truce, in a campaign of solidarity that unites the planet rather than by deepening the divisions and the hatred that inflames people and sows terror.”

Weapons of Mass Destruction: “There is a commendable willingness today to adopt more effective measures to deal with terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, and organized crime.”

World peace: “True peace will bloom from democracy, from respect for international law, from dismantling of deadly weapons arsenals and, above all, from the final eradication of hunger.”

Brunei Darussalam
His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 30, 2003

Multilateralism: "The second [principle to which we committed ourselves] was multilateral decision-making and, in turn, all that this alsoimplies: respect for fellow members; sensitivity towards their deep concerns and the need for dialogue and consultation as equal partners in the conduct of international affairs, no matter how long and how frustrating the process involved.

"On the one hand, the great world institutions are technically multilateral. They are run by the governments of the world. Yet, in fact, many of these governments feel excluded from the most important decisions and beyond them, many interested parties feel that they are also on the outside.

"Multilateralism, in other words, appears to have its limits. Beyond them, it seems, the stronger nations take over. This basic division, we hope, Mr. President, can be brought to an end."

Bulgaria (French only)
H.E. Simeon de Saxe-Cobourg, Prime Minister
September 30, 2003

Terrorism: "…C'est la fonction même du Comité du Conseil de sécurité contre le terrorisme qui ne serait vraiment performant qu'en s'appuyant sur les organisations régionales et sous-régionales. Il s'agit de créer un véritable réseau global d'action contre le terrorisme où un rôle de tout premier plan revient naturellement à l'Union européenne, à l'O.T.A.N. et à l'Organisation pour la sécurité et la coopération en Europe. A mon avis, il est important que tous les Etats membres de l'O.N.U. signent et ratifient le plus rapidement possible les 12 conventions relatives à la lutte contre le terrorisme comme l'a fait la République de Bulgarie, sans oublier pourtant de se pencher sur l'origine, voire les causes de ces actes désespérés."

Burkina Faso (French only)
H.E. Mr. Blaise Compaoré, President
September 25, 2003

Terrorism: “Etant donné la complexité du phénomène et l'immensité des obstacles à surmonter, la seule action qui vaille est d'opposer une riposte collective à ce qui est aujourd'hui une menace collective. Dans ce combat titanesque, il va de soi que Ie Burkina Faso se trouve du côté de la civilisation contre la barbarie. Il en a fait le serment, en souscrivant sans ambages aux mesures anti-terroristes édictées par l'ONU, en particulier les résolutions pertinentes du Conseil de Sécurité.“

Burundi
Cambodia
H.E. Mr. Hor Namhong, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
September 30, 2003

Disarmament: "One possibility for the situation in the Korean peninsula to move ahead positively, I would argue, is to negotiate a roadmap for a nuclear-free and secure Korean peninsula. If this can proceed, I believe that the steps toward normalization of the situation in the Korean peninsula are within our reach."

Cameroon

Canada
H.E. Mr. Jean Chrètien, Prime Minister
September 23, 2003

Proliferation of WMD: “Consider further, the ongoing problem of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons. We face increasing challenges from the proliferation of these weapons of mass destruction to hostile states and terrorist groups. Such proliferation must be stopped. Through coordination and strict application of export controls. Through rigorous verification and enforcement of multilateral treaties. Through other forms of collective action under international law.”

Terrorism: “Consider the fight against terrorism. None of us has ever believed that, without cooperation from all, terrorism could be controlled, let alone stopped. Drying up sources of funding for terrorists also requires coordination and effective legal regimes. Swift coordinated action is imperative to prevent attacks.”

WMD: “Our age also presents us with urgent challenges. The environment. Rolling back diseases such as HIV-AIDS and malaria. Preventing conflict and ending impunity for crimes against humanity. Stopping terrorism and organized crime. Controlling weapons of mass destruction.”

Cape Verde
H.E. Maria de Fatima Veiga, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Communities
September 29, 2003

Terrorism: "Concerns about security have taken center stage in the world of today. We share these concerns, as being a small island nation makes us extremely vulnerable. Small and poor nations are often victims of criminal acts by terrorist organizations. My country fully cooperates with the United Nations bodies in the combat against terrorism and organized crime."

Central African Republic
Trinidad and Tobago

Chad (French only)
H.E. Nagoum Yamassoum, Minister of Foreign Affairs and African Integration
September 30, 2003

Proliferation of nuclear weapons (in East Asia): "En Asie Orientale, la question de la prolifération des armes nucléaires, les conflits territoriaux et les attaques terroristes mettent en péril la stabilité, non seulement des Etats de la région mais celle du monde entier. Néanmoins, il est heureux de constater qu'une dynamique de paix est résolument engagée dans cette région. Ainsi, nous nous réjouissons de la tenue des pourparlers multilatéraux sur le programme nucléaire nord coréen et exhortons les Etats de la Région dont le rôle est fondamental à s'impliquer réellement pour faciliter la recherche d'un règlement définitif de cette crise. "

Terrorism/UN reform: "…le Tchad qui fait de la recherche de la paix son credo réaffirme de la façon la plus forte sa ferme condamnation de tout acte de terrorisme, de tout acte de violence et de tout usage de la force pour régler les différends entre les nations et pour défendre quelque cause que ce soit. Ces actions doivent relever de nos organisations régionales en premier lieu, puis à défaut, de notre Organisation commune: l'ONU. Celle-ci, bien que traversée par quelques controverses, reste aujourd'hui la seule Organisation au monde à jouir véritablement d'une légitmité internationale.

"…Elle y parviendra d'autant plus aisément sans doute que les réformes toujours reportées pourront aboutir et se traduire par un élargissement du Conseil de Sécurité aux puissances nouvelles ou émergentes d'Europe, d'Afrique, d'Asie et d'Amérique, en un mot, à la prise en compte de l'état réel du monde contemporain. Ce serait une justice à faire à ces Nations, et un service à rendre à l'Organisation elle-même."

Chile
H.E. Mrs. Soledad Alvear Valenzuela, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 26, 2003

International Security: “We share the ideas of the Secretary-General for the elaboration of a programme of common security that will permit us to overcome the differences that have arisen in dealing with the increasing fears of our global community.”

Multilateralism: "The historic Santiago Commitment to Democracy of 1991 culminated in the adoption of the Inter-American Democratic Charter and has been complemented by the Declaration of Santiago on Democracy and Public Trust: A New Commitment to Good Governance for the Americas, which was adopted at the thirty-third General Assembly of the Organization of American States, held in Chile in June of this year. In that instrument, we reaffirmed the vital role of multilateral cooperation in promoting democratic governance. This effort is an example of how international cooperation can help to strengthen the universal value of democracy."

China
Li Zhaoxing, Foreign Minister
September 24, 2003

International Security: “Such non-traditional security concerns as terrorism, drug-trafficking, weapons proliferation, spread of diseases and environmental degradation have become more pronounced. Given modern conditions, they can easily spread within regions or even across the world, making the security situation of human communities even more complicated.

"…We should cultivate a new security concept featuring mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality and cooperation. Security should be maintained through cooperation and disputes resolved peacefully through dialogue. Frequent use or threat of force should be avoided and building one's own security at the expense of others rejected.”

Non-proliferation (DPRK): “China will continue to push for friendship and good-neighborliness in the interest of peace and tranquility in the region. Standing for a nuclear-free Korean Peninsula where peace and stability should be maintained, we initiated and sponsored the three-party Beijing talks and the first round of six-party talks. China remains committed to solving the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula peacefully through dialogue and building a lasting peace there.”

Colombia
H.E. Mr. Alvaro Uribe Vélez, President
September 30, 2003

Antipersonnel Mines: "The sacrifice of our soldiers and policemen has been significant. This year, as a consequence of the antipersonnel mines, 109 soldiers have been assassinated and 334 have been wounded, many of them completely mutilated."

Multilateralism: "Colombia reaffirms its faith in multilateralism as the most effective system to seek peace, security, human, economic and social development. The United Nations is irreplaceable, even though for the good of the humanity it requires constant updating of its structure and procedures to increase it efficiency against terrorism."

Terrorism: "Despite the anxiety we face as a result of the terrorism that affects so many countries in the world, we come to reiterate our commitment to fight until we leave behind such a scourge.

"…A year ago, I presented to all of you my Democratic Security Policy, which was developed to free Colombian people from terrorism. The policy establishes the basic lines of action to protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of their social income, their political ideals or religious beliefs. This policy will protect business leaders, labor union leaders, politicians, and those who oppose the government's beliefs. The basis of this policy lies in the dream of a pluralist nation that lives in permanent constructive debate, fraternal and without hatred.

"…At the present time, we are conducting a Constitutional change to allow the armed forces to proceed with specialized groups, in terrorism cases, to make captures, raids, and phone interceptions.

"…To protect our communities, we need to pursue forcefully all terrorists and not to miss the opportunity to get peace agreements, made in good faith."

Comoros (French only)
Mr. H.E. Colonel Azali Assoumani, President
September 25, 2003

Congo
Costa Rica
Cote d’Ivoire

Croatia
H.E. Mr. Stjepan Mesie, President
September 23, 2003

Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty: “The Comprehensive Test-Ban Treaty is, we believe, particularly important in ensuring that the goal of nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament is attained. We are concerned by the fact that since the Treaty was opened for signature and ratification seven years ago, it has still not come into effect. The universal character of this Treaty is of great significance and we call on all states that have not acceded to the Treaty to do so as soon as possible.”

Proliferation of WMD: “Apart from terrorism, one of the biggest security threats in the world is the proliferation of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction.”

Terrorism: “The fight against international terrorism is high on Croatia's list of priorities…Our collective duties to maintain international peace and security, which stem from the UN Charter, provide an international framework for a decisive response to terrorism in the 21st century.

"…The fight against terrorism requires not only action by the democratic coalition on a global level, but also that of each of its members on the national and regional levels. Equally important is that we intensify our activities to assist countries lagging behind in economic development and other areas. Inequality, injustice and ignorance are fertile breeding grounds for the seed of terrorism.”

Cuba
H.E. Mr. Felipe Pérez Roque, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 26, 2003

Disarmament: "A reform [is needed] that guarantees the ability of the United Nations to preserve peace, to lead the fight for general and complete disarmament, including nuclear disarmament – that many generations have looked forward to."

Cyprus
H.E. Mr. Tassos Papadopoulos, President
September 25, 2003

Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty: “We have repeatedly expressed our genuine commitment to international norms in the field of disarmament and I am happy to report that Cyprus, earlier this year, has ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty and the Ottawa Convention.”

International disarmament regime: “Universalization of, and compliance with multilateral treaties related to disarmament and non-proliferation, as well as verification mechanisms and internationally coordinated export controls are essential tools in our efforts.”

Landmines: “The Government of Cyprus, attaches great importance to the international effort against mine proliferation and the clearing of minefields. For this reason it has taken the initiative to clear all minefields in the buffer zone laid by the National Guard immediately after the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. In this regard, I would like to announce today my Government’s decision and firm commitment first: to unilaterally start within the next two months, in cooperation with the United Nations and the financial support of the European Union, demining in the buffer zone and second: to unilaterally proceed with the destruction of an appreciable amount of stockpiled anti-personnel mines during the month of November this year. This is just a first but, I believe, a major step in the implementation of our obligations under the Ottawa Convention.”

Non-proliferation: “Non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction has become, and rightly so, a top priority in the world’s agenda. The risk of acquisition of such weapons by terrorist groups highlights even more the gravity and urgency of the issues to be addressed. In this respect, the United Nations have a truly instrumental role to play.”

Terrorism: “From Baghdad to Jakarta, from Russia to India, and back to the heinous attacks of 11 September two years ago, terrorist acts around the globe, serve as a painful reminder that terrorism transcends borders and that it attacks universal values. Freedom, democracy, human rights and humanity itself have to be defended by the international community with persistence and determination. At the same time we should be cautious and ensure that our actions are fully in line with the cherished values we want to uphold. As the threat is unfortunately far from over, a genuine global mobilization, under the aegis of the United Nations, is of the essence if this endeavor is to be successful. Cyprus is playing its part fully in this concerted effort and is also among the countries that have ratified all twelve of the International Conventions pertaining to terrorism. Furthermore it has recently ratified the Convention on the Safety of United Nations and Associated Personnel of 1994.”

Czech Republic
H.E. Cyril Svoboda, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 29. 2003

Arms: "The Czech Republic supports all international efforts in the field of disarmament, arms control, including verification of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery. This process is a long-term priority of Czech foreign policy."

Conventional weapons: "The problems of the current conflicts severely affecting the civilian population are closely connected with the issue of conventional weapons, especially small arms and light weapons. The Czech Republic supports the international community in its effort to prevent the illicit trafficking in small arms and light weapons and their uncontrolled proliferation."

Multilateral Treaties regarding WMD: "We are convinced that it is necessary to promote the universal adherence and reinforcement of the three major multilateral agreements relating to weapons of mass destruction, that is Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, Chemical Weapons Convention and Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention. In this connection we also support the promotion of an early entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty. Particular emphasis should be placed on establishing effective verification mechanisms, namely for the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention.

"The Additional Protocol, which creates an integral part of the International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards system and strengthens the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty we consider to be a very important element of the verification system. That is why it is urgent for the States that have not entered into Safeguards Agreements with the International Atomic Energy Agency to do so and fulfill their obligations in accordance with article III of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. We are of the view that the Additional Protocol should be made the standard for all NPT Signatory States."

Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. Choe Su Hon, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 30, 2003

Nuclear Disarmament: "Denuclearizing the Korean peninsula is the ultimate goal and the initiative of the DPRK as well as the earnest aspirations of the entire Korean nation.

"Accordingly, at both tripartite and six-party talks on the nuclear issue, the DPRK advanced proposals aimed at achieving the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula"

Nuclear Weapons: "I wish to draw the attention of this forum to the principled position and sincere efforts of the DPRK government to ensure a fair solution of the nuclear issue between the DPRK and the United States, which now constitutes the focus of the international community.

"I believe that it will be a positive contribution to the work of the current General Assembly.

"The nuclear issue is, in its essence, an outcome of the hostile policy pursued by the United States to isolate and stifle the DPRK politically, economically and militarily. It originated from the deep-rooted hostility, which denies our system and refuses to co-exist with the DPRK.

"It is the consistent position of the DPRK to resolve the nuclear issue peacefully through dialogue and negotiations.

Terrorism and WMD: "Countries are designated as ‘axis of evil’ and the ‘targets of preemptive nuclear attacks’ on the basis of extreme national chauvinism and hostility. Unilateral military attacks are openly perpetrated against sovereign states under the pretext of ‘war against terrorism’ and ‘suspicion over the possession of weapons of mass destruction’."

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Denmark
H.E. Dr. Per Stig Moller, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2003

Terrorism and proliferation of WMD: “Today we need the UN more than ever. We need the UN to provide a more secure world, to fight international terrorism, to resolve conflicts and to halt the spread of weapons of mass destruction. We need the UN in ensuring fundamental human rights for all people. We need the UN to establish, implement and develop an international legal order based on the rule of law. And we need the UN in our combat against poverty and in securing sustainable economic growth.

"…Testifying to this is the immense work done in the fields of human rights, the rights of women and children, including the right to reproductive health care and services, the struggle against terrorism, and the efforts to control nuclear, biological and chemical weapons.”

Weapons of Mass Destruction: “The Security Council has successfully taken on international terrorism and should continue to focus on how to deal with weapons of mass destruction.”

Djibouti

Dominica
H.E. Pierre Charles, Prime Minister
September 25, 2003

International security: “Today's world is entangled in a web of complex problems that threaten global security. These problems, which require urgent attention from the United Nations, include HIV/AIDS and other diseases, poverty, marginalization of indigenous people, terrorism and global crime, the growing scarcity of freshwater, global warming, the spread of light arms which threaten peaceful countries like Dominica, nuclear proliferation, armed civil conflicts and the refugees they give rise to, trafficking in humans, and unfair trade rules that contribute to growing poverty in the developing countries.

"All of these problems require a strong and effective multi-lateral organization, enjoying the trust and confidence of the people on this planet, and capable of articulating collective approaches towards some solutions.”

Terrorism: “This year our Parliament enacted The Suppression of Financing of Terrorism Act, which complements two earlier pieces of legislation related to the prevention of terrorism, the Money Laundering Act, and the Exchange of Information Act. The passage of these pieces of legislation has contributed to significant strengthening of the regulatory regime for banks operating in our offshore financial sector and to efforts to combat money laundering.

"We welcome the assistance of the Commonwealth in a review of our legal system to allow its alignment with the global strategy to fight terrorism, as well as the guidance of the Counter Terrorism Committee.”

Dominican Republic
H.E. Mr. Francisco Guerrero Prats, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 30, 2003

Terrorism and WMD: "Terrorism has emerged as a constant threat to humanity. The uncertainty and the pain have marked the beginning of the XXI Century. Our nations have the challenge to fight together, and at a global level, against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and to promote an equitable development and a free society. Security problems demand decisive action against international terrorism, organized crime and the illegal traffic of arms and drugs."

Ecuador (Spanish only)
H.E. Ingeniero Lucio Gutierrez, President
September 24, 2003

Terrorism: El Ecuador, país con una profunda vocacíon pacífica reitera su más categórica condena al terrorismo en todas sus formas y manifestaciones. La violencia terrorstia Jamás podrá ser justificada por motivo alguno, y debe ser combatida con firmeza, con todos los medios que el derecho pone a disposición de los estados para hacer frente a esta amenaza global.

Egypt
H.E. Ahmed Maher El Sayed, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 29, 2003

Proliferation of WMD/nuclear-weapons-free zones: "…Challenges related to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the slow pace of international action in the field of nuclear disarmament. We are witnessing tendencies to consecrate the right to possess, develop, and modernize nuclear weapons. Some still cling to the obsolete doctrines of deterrence. They attempt to find justifications for the use of nuclear weapons. Therefore, it has become necessary to widen the establishment of zones free of weapons of mass destruction. In this regard, I recall Egypt's repeated assertions in all international fora that rendering the Middle East free of weapons of mass destruction particularly nuclear weapons, in a comprehensive manner that applies to all without exception or discrimination, is the only way to save the region and the world from the dangers that threaten all our achievements and all that we strive to achieve. It is unacceptable that Israel's possession of such weapons should remain a reality that some prefer to ignore or prevent the international community in Vienna, New York or elsewhere from facing it squarely and frankly."

Terrorism: "…Egypt has participated seriously in all activities aimed at strengthening international efforts against terrorism. This has been Egypt's objective all along. In 1995 Egypt launched President Hosni Mubarak's initiative to convene a high level international conference under UN auspices to consider the ways and means to combat terrorism. This initiative gave expression to Egypt's keen interest in supporting the international efforts aimed at reaching a clear and precise understanding of the fight against terrorism, including through the negotiations on the comprehensive convention to combat international terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The Egyptian initiative must not be misconstrued as a chance for protracted polemics or disagreement that clouds our objective. On the contrary it is a call to frame a document that expresses the international political will and reflects the international resolve to eradicate the scourge of terrorism, to restore peace and security along with justice and stability and clarifies the responsibilities of each and every member of the international community."

El Salvador (Spanish only)
H.E. Francisco Guillermo Flores Perez, President
September 23, 2003

Terrorism: "El terrorismo es una negación de todos los valores que compartimos.
Necesitamos un consenso sobre los valores que nos unen y una renovada voluntad de acción."

"…Nos expresamos con la legitimidad de haber sido, nosotros mismos, escenarios del ultimo conflicto de la guerra fria, y comprendemos como la intermediaci6n de la comunidad internacional puede favorecer la solución a un conflicto."

Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea

Estonia
H.E. Mr. Arnold Rüütel, President
September 24, 2003

Non-proliferation:"I would like to conclude by stressing that although I have touched upon only terrorism and environment, Estonia fully shares all the EU priorities at the 58th General Assembly of the United Nations Organisation. In particular, non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, peacekeeping, protection of human rights and combating HIV/AIDS pandemic."

Terrorism: "A terrorist act against people who are committed to assist the people of Iraq is a painful blow to the UN and a crime against the people of Iraq and the international community. However, it cannot be an impetus for the UN to withdraw from hot spots.”

Ethiopia
H.E. Seyoum Mesfin, Minister of Foreign Affairs
October 1, 2003

Terrorism: "…We in Ethiopia are determined to contribute more than our share to assist in the regeneration of our sub-region which has also been the target of international terrorism. The achievement of peace and national reconciliation in Somalia is extremely critical in the fight against this scourge as well. That is why all those who are willing to join in the fight against international terrorism should be automatically supportive of the peace effort by IGAD in Somalia."

European Union (see Italy)

Fiji

Finland
H.E. Marjatta Rasi, Permanent Representative of Finland to the UN
October 1, 2003

International nonproliferation regime: "Most effective way to address global security threats is the multilateral system of binding international agreements. The existing system of treaties built over the decades needs to be strengthened, not weakened. We need to reinforce our commitment to the prohibitions of chemical and biological weapons and prevention of the spread of nuclear weapons with the objective of their total elimination.

"Promoting the adherence to multilateral treaties and obligations is not enough. It is equally important to ensure that commitments are fully implemented. The international community cannot tolerate precedents of non-compliance with the legal undertakings which would put at stake the whole non-proliferation regime.

"In cases where states have difficulties in implementing treaty obligations due to lack of legal or technical verification expertise, appropriate support and assistance should be offered by the relevant organisations and participating states."

Non-proliferation of WMD: "Effective global governance requires universally agreed norms and rules setting standards for behaviour to be followed by all states as well as by non-state actors. Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery are clearly an issue that affects the international community as a whole. No state can ignore these dangers. Today more than ever, we need to step up our collective efforts to halt the proliferation worldwide.

"Most effective way to address global security threats is the multilateral system of binding international agreements. The existing system of treaties built over the decades needs to be strengthened, not weakened. We need to reinforce our commitment to the prohibitions of chemical and biological weapons and prevention of the spread of nuclear weapons with the objective of their total elimination."

Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty: "The nuclear non-proliferation treaty (NPT) remains the cornerstone of our efforts to curb the spread of nuclear weapons. In our view the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty constitutes an essential and irreplaceable building block to contain the proliferation of nuclear weapons, thus contributing to nuclear disarmament. Finland attaches great importance to the entering into force of this Treaty. We urge all states that have not yet done so to sign and ratify the CTBT as soon as possible."

New Disarmament Efforts and Approaches: "In combating the spread of weapons of mass destruction new initiatives and new approaches are called for. In order to complement international instruments we need fresh perspectives on how to confront the problem of weapons of mass destruction. Finland welcomes new efforts - open to all - such as the G 8 Global Partnership against the spread of weapons and materials of mass destruction."

Small and light weapons: "By focussing on weapons of mass destruction I do not want to say that small arms are any less dangerous. They need due and growing attention by the international community. In some countries and in some crises small arms are a means of massive destruction and a major cause for loss of lives - mostly civilians."

Verification: "…We agree with the Secretary-General that the United Nations and the Security Council should look at the enforcement of weapons of mass destruction regimes. The UN has valuable expertise and experience in the field of verification. Finland believes that this verification and inspection competence should be maintained."

France
H.E. Mr. Jacques Chirac, President
September 23, 2003

International Non-proliferation Regime: “We must stand united in ensuring the universality of treaties and the effectiveness of non-proliferation regimes. We must strengthen our means of action in order to ensure compliance. France has proposed the creation of a permanent corps of inspectors under the authority of the Security Council. We need to We need to give fresh impetus to this policy. Let us call a summit meeting of the Security Council to frame a genuine United Nations action plan against proliferation.”

Terrorism: “The fight against international terrorism is another key challenge. This is well in hand, under Security Council auspices and within the framework of our various treaties. Our determination is rooted in the horror of September 11. The threat goes to the very heart of our democracies and societies. We are using force to combat terrorism, but that is not enough. It will return over and over if we allow extremism and fanaticism to flourish, if we fail to realize that it uses the world's unresolved conflicts and imbalances as its justification.”

Weapons of Mass Destruction: “In the face of proliferating weapons of mass destruction, we reject all ‘fait accomplis.’”

Gabon (French Only)
H.E. Jean Ping, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Francophonie
September 26, 2003

Military Cooperation: “Pour faciliter le déploiement rapide des forces de maintien de la paix dans ces régions, ne serait-il pas souhaitable de créer, sous l'égide des Nations Unies, un partenariat entre les pays africains et les pays développés pourvoyeurs de logistique? “

Gambia
H.E. Baboucarr-Blaise Ismaila Jagne, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs
September 29, 2003

Conventional weapons: "The problem of conflicts in West Africa continues, however, to be compounded by the illicit flow of small arms and light weapons as well as the roving bands of mercenaries. International efforts could serve the region best by developing comprehensive disarmament, demobilization and rehabilitation programmes that target militias and are region-specific rather than country-specific. We must endeavour to address the issue of the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons with greater determination. An arrangement similar to the Kimberley Process in blood diamonds is what is urgently required to effectively stem the illicit flow of small arms and light weapons…"

Nuclear Proliferation: "My Government firmly supports the initiatives being taken to reduce tensions between India and Pakistan, two great friends of The Gambia. We urge them both to reduce the arms build-up on their respective sides of the border, and to strive harder to reach a mutually acceptable solution to their differences in particular, the issue of Kashmir."

Georgia

Germany
H.E. Mr. Gerhard Schröder, Chancellor
September 24, 2003

Non-proliferation: “We must prevent any further proliferation of nuclear weapons, strengthen the inspections regimes and pursue a policy of verified disarmament.”

Terrorism: “We must put the terrorists and their masters out of mischief and destroy their infrastructure.

"…In the long run, the fight against terrorism can only be won if people see that it produces benefits which are tangible in their own lives.

"They need to experience at first hand that being once again part of the international community means not only more freedom and more security, but also better development opportunities and a greater stake in society.”

Ghana
H.E. Mr. John Agyekum Kufuor, President
September 24, 2003

Conventional Disarmament: “Mr. President, while fully appreciating the support of our friends, ECOWAS must nevertheless appeal for some more resources from this Organization and the international community, to enable it to consolidate the peace and normalization process. It is necessary to stress that, in some instances within the sub-region, post-conflict peace building efforts have failed, because the many problems entailed were not addressed in a systematic, sustained and holistic manner. In the main, such problems include disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of combatants into regular society. ECOWAS, therefore, appeals for necessary assistance for effective management of them.”

Conventional Arms: “Yet another serious continuing menace is the prevalent illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in the sub-region. In this regard, we note the commendable progress made by the international community in addressing this menace through the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons. The truth, however, is that more vigorous and resourceful effort is needed to succeed.”

Terrorism: “The past two years have been years of near apocalyptic ordeal for the world and this great Organization. In rapid succession, the world and this Organization have been caught in what can only be described as crossfires of terrorism, violence and wars. The uncertainties resulting from these situations are yet to be dispelled. Much of the world is still in the dark, groping for a glimpse of the vision of how the future direction of international relations and this Organisation will look like.

"The recent unwarranted attacks against the United Nations Office and personnel in Baghdad, Iraq, should be roundly condemned. It should not break the will of this Organization to provide humanitarian assistance and relief to the people of Iraq.”

Greece
H.E. Mr. George Papandreou, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 26, 2003

Nonproliferation: "Last June, the EU adopted its first Strategy against the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction, along with a Joint Action Plan. This was quickly followed by a framework agreement between the EU and US on WMD.

"These instruments of preventive action will help the EU to effectively address global security challenges, and thus contribute to strengthening international order."

Terrorism and Proliferation: "Similarly, problems such as terrorism, drug, arms, and people trafficking, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction all point to a world where conflict is not confined within national frontiers. It is only logical to conclude that they can only be properly addressed through multilateral actions and policies. Only sustainable development will bring sustainable peace, at both the regional and global levels."

Weapons of Mass Destruction: "And indeed, this year, the United Nations has undergone one of the most testing periods in its history. During the Iraqi crisis, the world's citizens put great faith in the power of the United Nations; faith in its power to respond to the potential threat of weapons of mass destruction, while at the same time preserving peace and the legitimacy of international law."

Grenada

Guatemala
H.E. Mr. Alfonso Portillo Cabrera, President
September 23, 2003

Terrorism: “We reiterate our opposition to all forms of terrorism and support the collective action of the international community in combating this scourge.”

Guinea
Guinea-Bissau

Guyana
H.E. Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, President
September 25, 2003

International Security/UN Reform: “Regrettably, the world in which we live now, while placing a high premium on democracy at the national level, fails to live up to this ideal in the international councils that shape our common destiny. We are concerned at this double standard since the aspirations of humanity for peace, security and development cannot be fulfilled without the effective participation of all states in global affairs.

" … It is time that the United Nations Security Council, which has primary responsibility under the Charter for international peace and security be made more representative of the wider international community. The Council must be expanded and the role of developing countries in this organ appropriately strengthened. To this end, Guyana is prepared to support the candidacies of Brazil, India and an African country for permanent seats on the Council and a suitable number of non-permanent seats for other developing countries. This expansion will no doubt enable it to better cope with the challenges which conflicts, both old and new, pose to global peace and development.”

Haiti
H.E. Jean-Bertrand Aristide, President
September 26, 2003

Arms Spenditures: “Nombre d'observateurs avaient exprimé leur joie de constater la réduction des dépenses militaires à l'échelon du monde, au cours de la dernière décennie du XX eme siècle. En effet de 1985 à 1998, ces dépenses passaient de 1210,5 milliards à 803,7 milliards de dollars. “

"La réduction des dépenses en armement et l'augmentation des dépenses consacrées au développement humain, croyons-nous, peut favoriser tant la croissance humaine que la, croissance économique…“

Honduras
H.E. S.E. Ricardo Maduro, President
September 26, 2003

Arms limitation: ”…hemos estado avanzando en una agenda para lograr una adecuada limitación y equilibrio de armas que nos permita invertir los recursos liberados en áreas sociales prioritarias.”

Terrorism: “Sin embargo, un ataque terrorista repudiable, trastocó nuestra agenda común y obligó a todas las naciones del mundo, a realizar ajustes en las prioridades convenidas.”

" La seguridad se convirtió así en el eje primordial, inmediato y perentorio de la acción colectiva.”

" Honduras repudia y condena el terrorismo en todas sus formas y manifestaciones, independientemente del lugar donde esos hechos se produzcan y cualesquiera que sean sus autores materiales e intelectuales.”

" ...Por otra parte, junto con las Repúblicas hermanas de Centroamérica, hemos trabajado arduamente en la construcción de un Plan para Prevenir y Combatir el Terrorismo y otro para Combatir el Crimen Organizado en todas sus manifestaciones.”

Hungary
H.E. Laszló Kovacs, Minister of Foreign Affairs
October 1, 2003

Biological Weapons Convention: "We view the first follow-up meeting of the States Parties to the Biological Weapons Convention /BWC/ in August this year in Geneva as encouraging. The participants have rightly focused on practical actions. We look forward to seeing further progress in strengthening national implementation of the BWC at the next meeting in November."

Non-Proliferation of WMDs: "The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction together with their means of delivery is a growing and serious threat to international peace and security. The danger of nuclear, biological and chemical weapons in the hands of terrorist groups and states, that are a menace to our world, represent new major security challenges, against which we must act together in a resolute manner both regionally and globally.

"Earlier this year, the European Union has adopted a very important and far-reaching Declaration on Arms Proliferation and Weapons of Mass Destruction. Hungary will work hard with its partners in the EU towards the effective implementation of this new instrument as well as of the recently agreed EU Action Plan.

"Under the current security environment worldwide, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons /NPT/ is in need to be reinforced. We call on the States remaining outside the NPT to accede to it unconditionally and accept the nearly universal norms of nuclear nonproliferation.

"Revelations about large-scale nuclear programs and the failure to provide sufficient explanations about their purpose and nature, have given rise to legitimate concerns of the international community. There is a growing recognition, shared by Hungary, that these programs imply serious proliferation risks as well."

Iceland
H.E. Mr. Halldór Asgrimsson, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade
September 26, 2003

Terrorism and Human Rights: "We should be especially aware of the implications for human rights of new threats and new policies. In particular, we must ensure that fundamental human rights are not violated in our counter-terrorism efforts as has been underlined by the SecretaryGeneral"

"…On terrorism, renewed efforts must be made to reach an agreement on a universal definition during this General Assembly. Such a definition would make the fight against terrorism more effective."

India
H.E. Mr. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Prime Minister
September 25, 2003

Conventional weapons: “We have to sustain the fight against trafficking in narcotic drugs, human beings and small arms; the pandemic of HIV/AIDS; diseases like malaria and tuberculosis that grip developing countries and the degradation of our common environment.”

Proliferation of WMD and terrorism: “We should be particularly concerned at the various recent revelations about clandestine transfers of weapons of mass destruction and their technologies. We face the frightening prospect of these weapons and technologies falling into the hands of terrorists. Surely something needs to be done about the helplessness of international regimes in preventing such transactions, which clearly threaten international security. The same regimes expend considerable energy in imposing a variety of discriminatory technology-denial restrictions on responsible states.”

Indonesia
H.E. Ms. Megawati Soekarnoputri, President
September 23, 2003

Regional Security: “We must strengthen international cooperation and reinforce regional engagement. In Southeast Asia, we continue to enhance the role of ASEAN. Next month, at the ASEAN Summit that Indonesia will host in Bali, we expect to take concrete step towards forming an ASEAN Security Community that will support and complement our efforts at becoming an ASEAN Economic Community. I believe that stable, peaceful and prosperous ASEAN would significantly contribute to the realization of the UN objectives.”

Terrorism: “While we were contending with these difficulties, starting 2002, terrorism has inflicted its brutality upon our homeland. For quite a long time we believed that international terrorism would spare Indonesia because we had a tradition of tolerance for human differences. Now, however, we must face the reality that Indonesia has become a target of terrorism, and as a result, has suffered enormous losses in human lives.

"We have been wondering: why those terrifying acts were carried out? What are their underlying reasons, motives, and arguments? What are their relations to international terrorism networks? What is the course of action to be adopted in order to effectively prevent, deter, and eradicate them?

"We have adopted a series of firm legislations to prevent and eradicate the threats posed by terrorism. Equipped with these stronger legal authorities, we have dismantled terrorist cells in the country and prosecutors have brought their members to justice. Several have already been meted sentences that befit their crimes.

"The people of Indonesia, who are predominantly of the Islamic faith, support this national policy. Large and active Islamic organizations, such as Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama, as well as the Indonesian Ulemas Council and prominent Islamic figures are one in condemning these terrorist acts.

"… We should truly be prudent and sensible in the face of such a long outstanding issue. It is difficult to refute the impression that the policy on conflict resolution in the Middle East is not only unjust but also one-sided. Clearly, the Middle East problem is not a conflict of religions or of religious adherents though there might be some religious nuances in the issue.

"…In order to prevent, deter or eradicate the problem of international terrorism, I should like to propose that the countries, whose citizens become the main target of terrorist groups, should review their conventional anti-terrorism policies, particularly in dealing with the ArabIsraeli conflict. They should adopt a policy that ensures that all involved parties are given just and equal treatment.”

Iran (Islamic Republic of)
H.E. Dr. Kamal Kharrazi, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 25, 2003

Nuclear energy: “The political pressure against the Islamic Republic of Iran to set aside its inalienable rights to develop peaceful nuclear technology is unfortunately mounting in circumstances that some Nuclear Weapon States are testing and developing advanced tactical nuclear weapons program and Israel, in defiance of international calls to adhere to the NPT, is continuing with impunity its clandestine development of sophisticated nuclear weapons and its delivery systems. The NPT Review and Extension Conferences have all called for the suspension and freezing of the tactical weapons program and the Israeli nuclear program which is the real threats to international peace and security. They are both considered to be in contravention with the letter and spirit of the NonProliferation Treaty.

"Iran's nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes; particularly production of 7000 Mw of electricity that is foreseen in Iran's planned economic development by the year 2020. Iran will vigorously pursue its peaceful nuclear program and will not give in to unreasonable demands that are discriminatory, selective and go beyond the requirements of non-proliferation in accordance with existing IAEA instruments. At the same time, Iran does not have a nuclear weapons program nor does it intend to embark on one. Thus, we have nothing to hide, and in principle have no problem with the additional protocol. We are anxious to ascertain that this step will be solely utilized to enhance confidence and remove all doubts about the peaceful nature of our nuclear program.”

WMD: “Weapons of mass destruction are amongst the most potent threats to peace and security at the regional and global levels. CWC, BWC and the NPT are the results of our collective wisdom to respond to this threat through elimination in the first two cases and non-proliferation in the third. We believe we should do much more. We should do more to make these basic international instruments universal. We should also do more to strengthen verifiability of their implementations. And finally, we should all work collectively, as mandated by the ICJ, to move towards total elimination of nuclear weapons.

"By adhering to all these three legal instruments, as an original party, my country has manifested its determination towards total eradication of weapons of mass destruction from the globe. Our commitment to international regimes on weapons of mass destructions does not merely lie in our contractual obligations but, more importantly, in our religious convictions and historical experience. No country like mine in recent decades may feel so fresh the tragic scars of being victims of such weapons particularly within a complacent international milieu. We are convinced that pursuit of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction not only cannot provide deterrence or enhance one's security and influence, but will only increase vulnerability. Thus, I can state categorically that for all these reasons, weapons of mass destruction have no place in the defensive strategy of my country. We believe the only option is to work actively towards global and regional banning of these weapons and have thus spared no effort in this regard.
However, the efforts to ban or strengthen the ban on the weapons of mass destruction should not provide any excuse for denying the rights of States to develop technology for peaceful purposes.”

Iraq

Ireland
H.E. Mr. Bertie Ahern, Prime Minister
September 25, 2003

Proliferation: "Proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons poses a serious threat to international peace and security. We must recommit ourselves to controlling the spread of such weapons, and working towards their complete elimination. This can only be achieved through a comprehensive and rigorous system of international treaties and obligations that are verifiable and universal.

"Ireland, with its partners in the New Agenda Coalition, will continue its efforts in respect of nuclear disarmament during this year's General Assembly. Ireland calls on all States who are concerned about the issue of weapons of mass destruction to become constructively engaged in the multilateral disarmament and non=proliferation process. There can be no room for double standards."

Terrorism: "We must also remain resolute in our determination to counter the threat of terrorism. We owe it to the victims of September 11, and to all the victims of terrorist atrocities before and since. The measures put in place by the Security Council have made it more difficult for international terrorist networks to organise and to finance their activities. These organisations, however, do not stand- still. We must remain vigilant and redouble our efforts. to make it impossible for the agents of international terror to operate.

"In doing so, however, we must be clear that the need to act against terrorism offers no license for action contrary to the UN Charter, or against the body of international human rights and humanitarian law that we have so painstakingly constructed.

"We must also seek to deal with the causes of terrorism. Terrorism is not some kind of original sin. No child is born a terrorist. At some point in their lives, some people become terrorists. We have to identify how and why."

Israel
H.E. Mr. Silvan Shalom, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 25, 2003

Terrorism and WMD: "States - members of this institution - that sponsor terrorists and give them shelter, are accomplices in the acts of terror themselves. They must be held accountable for their crimes. It is no coincidence that states that sponsor terrorism like Iran and Syria, are also striving to acquire Weapons of Mass Destruction. Their hostility to freedom and the rule of law puts the very future of humanity in jeopardy."

Italy (on behalf of the European Union)
H.E. Mr. Silvio Berlusconi, Prime Minister
September 23, 2003

International Peace and Security: "Conflict prevention and crisis management are essential components of the safeguarding of international peace