Disarmament Index

of high-level statements delivered in the 59th Session of the General Assembly, 2004

This is an index of all references made to issues of disarmament, peace and security, made in the General Debate of the General Assembly. This index is a tool to gauge the issues to be detailed during the First Committee of the General Assembly, starting October 4, 2004.

Included are all references made to arms control, disarmament, multilateralism, nuclear energy, nuclear weapon free zones, security, proliferation, terrorism and weapons.

(Note: some transcripts were not available in English. Some excerpts are therefore unofficial translations by the RCW staff.)

These statements are to be delivered
September 21- October 1, 2004.

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, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominica, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Estonia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Finland, Fiji, France, Gabon, Gambia, Germany, Georgia, Ghana, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Holy See, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kuwait, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liechtenstein, Liberia, Libya, Lithuania, Macedonia, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Palestine, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Romania, Russian Federation, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia and Montenegro, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Soloman Islands, South Africa, Spain, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

References to disarmament in the Secretary-General's Report to the General Assembly

Afghanistan
H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of
September 21, 2004

Disarmament (conventional weapons): "We have also taken steps toward disarming, demobilizing and reintegrating private militias. Nearly all of the heavy weapons have been collected from the city of Kabul, and thousands of former combatants have been disarmed in various parts of the country."

Terrorism: "The remnants of terrorism continue to attack our citizens and threaten our security. As long as terrorism continues to exist in our region, neither Afghanistan, nor our neighbors, nor indeed the rest of the world can be safe. Eliminating the remnants of terrorism in Afghanistan and in the region requires not only continued support from the international community, but also strong and sincere commitment from other countries. To stop the movement of terrorists across borders, the countries in the region must cooperate closely."

Albania
H.E. Mr. Fatos Nano, Prime Minister of
September 21, 2004

Multilateralism and Terrorism: "...no country can be successful alone in the fight against terrorism. In this context, it is very important to strengthen the international cooperation both among states and between the latter and global or regional international organizations, among which United Nations plays an irreplaceable role."

Proliferation: "This year Albania also joined the Proliferation Security Initiative whose aim is to identify, through a set of principles, concrete steps to prevent trafficking of WMD, their launching systems and materials used to produce them."

Radiological materials: "Albania has ...taken all measures for the implementation of the Code of Conduct on Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources of the IAEA, convinced that this international instrument is extremely important to prevent threats stemming from misuse of radioactive materials. Albania has already taken the decision and in the coming weeks will sign the Additional Protocol to the Safeguards Agreement of the IAEA."

WMD and Terrorism: "The Albanian Government salutes the decision of the Security Council to play an active role in the fight against threats coming from possession and trafficking of weapons of mass destruction. It supports the UN Security Council resolution 1540 of 2004."

Andorra
H.E. Mr. Marc Forné Molné, President of
September 23, 2004

Terrorism: "...we are living with considerable concern in a world which is becoming more and more violent, where terrorist attacks are met by a military response and these military responses seem to generate new terrorist attacks. It would seem that we are caught up in a terrible settling of scores, in a spiral of hate, fanaticism and senseless bloodshed."

"...it is a source of consternation to note that the doctrine of preemptive attack has generated a level of distrust among governments and peoples."

"We need to address the causes of terrorism, to comprehend the forces that give it power, in order to respond, together, within the rule of law. Tomorrow, my country will deposit the instruments of ratification of four conventions against terrorism and the rest are scheduled to be ratified in the coming year."

"We cannot allow terrorism to unbind the rule of law, since this would mean undoing the tissue of civilized behavior that serves as a safety net within modern culture. Instead of isolating one nation from another, instead of signifying moralizing and self-serving political posturing, instead of giving in to fear, we must recognize that our common vulnerability goes hand in hand with a humanity which we also share."

Angola
H.E. Dr. João Bernardo de Miranda, Minister for External Relations
September 24, 2004

DDR: “Effectively, the rehabilitation of social and productive infrastructures destroyed almost in their totality by the armed conflict; the social reintegration of nearly 100 thousand former combatants and their respective families; the resettlement of more than four million internally displaced persons, and of more than 400 thousand refugees, together with an incommensurable effort for the reduction of poverty affecting most of the population. This is a very difficult task which can only be successful with the full participation of the international community.”

Terrorism: “…we do not deem it improper or inconvenient to reflect a little further on the forms of prevention and combat to terrorism. Are the methods utilized hitherto effective per se to eradicate terrorism? Is the current collective security system capable of facing the terrorists’ aggressiveness? To what extent will answers to terrorism based on the United Nations’ multilateral efforts to be less incisive?”

Antigua and Barbuda
H.E. Hon. Baldwin Spencer
September 24, 2004

Security: “The international security measures mandated by America’s post 9/11 PATRIOT Act have inflicted an inordinate financial burden on the small economies of CARICOM member states…

“With intensified security concerns in the United States, Caribbean countries are confronted with increasing waves of deported felons from the United States.”

Armenia
H.E. Mr. Vartan Oskanian, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of
September 29, 2004

Terrorism: “Terrorism, in all its manifestations, affects security, political and economic stability in our neighborhoods and on our planet…

“Cognizant that the success of the counter terrorism efforts is conditional on collective measures, Armenia has readily joined the global fight against international terrorism. This fight must go beyond effective regional and international cooperation. It must include the very goals of the Millennium Declaration- replacing deprivation, poverty and injustice by a universal respect for human rights and democracy, economic development, equality and social justice.”

Australia
H.E. Mr. John Dauth, LVO, Permanent Representative
September 30, 2004

Proliferation: “The proliferation of WMD is another urgent concern. Unless we act firmly and with unity, terrorist groups could one day acquire WMD with disastrous consequences.

“A threat to international security the issue of WSMD proliferation falls squarely within the Security Council’s mandate. We welcome the adoption of UNSCR 1540 as a demonstration of the Council’s willingness to engage on WMD proliferation, including the risk of WMD terrorism. We hope that with adoption of this resolution the Council will take a firmer and more active stance on WMD issues.”

“In this year’s First Committee, we, along with Turkey and Argentina, will introduce a resolution on “Prevention of the Illicit Transfer and Unauthorized Access to and Use of Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS).”

Terrorism: “We, the international community, cannot allow security threats to fester. What is required is new thinking, practical action and cooperation between governments. Obviously the UN has a primary role to play.”

“We have committed energy and resources to building counter-terrorism cooperation in our region, both bilaterally and through organizations such as APEC and the ARF. We are also committed to building understanding as part of a comprehensive approach.”

Austria
H.E. Dr. Benita Ferrero-Waldner, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

Multilateralism: "Austria is convinced that the only effective multilateralism based on the rule of law can address the new and complex challenges that the international community faces today."

"I would like to announce today that I have launched a discourse on the role and function of the Security Council in the strengthening of a rules-based international system. As a first step, we will organize a panel of international legal experts during the 'International Law Week' at the UN here in New York in November of this year, which will analyze the increasing law-making tendency of the Security Council."

Landmines: "Austria is honored to chair the first Review Conference of the Antipersonnel Mine Ban Convention in Nairobi later this year where the international community will chart a course for the solution of the landmine problem in the coming years. The Mine Ban Convention has become a true example of a successful and effective multilateral approach to address a global problem. I encourage all States to participate at the Nairobi Summit at the highest possible level."

Proliferation: "The proliferation of small arms and light weapons continues to be a serious threat to human security. The UN Programme of Action against the illicit trade of those weapons must be strengthened. First steps have already been taken with regard to the problem of marking and tracing of weapons, steps that may lead to a legally binding regime."

Security: "Security, as we see it, is human security. It is the kind of security all human beings are looking for: among them millions of civilians in all parts of the world affected by armed conflict, the majority of them women and children, and 40 million people living with the HIV virus. Human security transcends the concept of 'hard threats' and 'soft threats'. If we see those threats through the prism of the human beings concerned, it becomes clear that for the afflicted individual all of those threats- be they war or hunger, terrorism or deadly disease- deprive them of their security."

"To work for Human Security requires us to work together to fight the scourge of trafficking in human beings."

"As a Member of the Human Security Network, we cooperate with others to promote human security in the world. As one concrete example, Austria- together with Slovenia and Jordan- initiated and funded an aid project for traumatized children in Iraq. I am convinced that applying a human security perspective to international problems has the potential of energizing political processes aimed at preventing or solving conflicts and promoting peace and development.'

Terrorism: "Austria is committed to the full cooperation with other States and UN bodies involved in counter-terrorism and works to promote the whole range of UN action against Terrorism."

Azerbaijan
H.E. Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of
September 24, 2004

Terrorism: “Being one of the active members of the global coalition against international terrorism, Azerbaijan faithfully cooperates bilaterally and within multilateral frameworks to suppress this evil that continues to bring death and sufferings to innocent peoples.”

Bahamas
Hon. Frederick A. Mitchell, MP, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Public Service of
September 30, 2004

SALW: “We therefore welcome the convening in June 2004 of the first session of the open-ended working group to negotiate an international instrument to enable states to identify and trace, in a timely manner, illicit small arms and light weapons, some of the tools of undermining our safety and security and our economic and social fabric. This meeting was a small but important first step in reaching agreement on an instrument on tracing, to enable States affected by the illicit trade to more effectively identify lines of supply, put measures in place to interdict existing lines and prevent new ones, and to cooperate with other states at the bilateral, regional and international levels. At the same time, we continue to 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.”

Nuclear waste: “We also reiterate our grave concern over the serious threat posed to the security and economic development of Caribbean countries by the transshipment of nuclear waste through the Caribbean Sea, and continue to call on States involved in transshipments to desist from this practice.”

Terrorism: “We also admonish all states that terrorism cannot be the excuse to limit freedom, and to dispense with the very liberties that we are trying to defend and that form the foundation of free and democratic societies.”

Bahrain
H.E. Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister of
September 24, 2004

Terrorism: “Foremost of these (enormous changes in international relations) is the nature of international terrorism in light of the liberalization of commerce and the movement of capital, as well as the movement of ideas and culture among nations, without impediment.”

“In this regard, Bahrain reaffirms its condemnation of terrorism in all its shapes and fonts, regardless of its sources or motivation. We reassert that there can be no justification whatsoever for terrorism, and that terrorist acts are not condoned by any religion or belief.

“Bahrain has condemned and continues to condemn terrorist acts against countries and peoples, by which innocent lives are lost, and reaffirms its solidarity with the brotherly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its support for all measures it has taken to overcome these criminal actions which contradict the principles and tenets of Islam, the religion of tolerance and benevolence…

“In examining terrorism and its threats, it is necessary to review its causes in order to limit its destructive danger. Among these causes we find poverty, ignorance, backwardness, unemployment, a culture of extremism, fundamentalism, ethnic prejudice, feelings of national desperation and violations of human rights.

“To address this terrorist phenomenon, and within the framework of regional cooperation to fight it, Bahrain and other countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council have this year signed the GCC Anti-Terrorism Agreement, an advanced step in overcoming this scourge that must be eradicated.”

Bangladesh
H.E. Mr. M. Morshed Khan, M.P., Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

Disarmament: "We believe that there is a direct relationship between disarmament and development. Bangladesh is party to all major international Conventions and Treaties on disarmament. We have denounced all weapons of mass destruction. Our geographical location makes nuclear weapons a direct and legitimate cause for concern for us in the South Asia region. Bangladesh, therefore, supports all measures partial and otherwise towards arms control, convention and nuclear disarmament."

Terrorism: "Extreme poverty is a gross denial of human rights. The disturbing experiences, including rise in senseless terrorism warn us that failure in development is not an option, that poverty can breed extremism, that to rid the world of its tragic consequences effectively, its roots causes must be addressed."

Barbados
Hon. Dame Billie A. Miller, Senior Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of
September 27, 2004

International security: “The dominant view in some parts of the world is that the most serious threats to international peace and security are the more recent virulent forms of terrorism, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and non-conventional weapons, and the spread of transnational criminal networks. For many others around the globe, however, particularly in the developing world, poverty, the spread of HIV/AIDS and other diseases, natural disasters, civil strife and other social, economic and environmental concerns remain the highest priority.”

Multilateralism: “…it is incumbent upon all Member States to reaffirm their commitment to and support for the multilateral process, using the United Nations as its primary vehicle.”

Belarus
H.E. Sergei Martynov, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of
September 29, 2004

Disarmament: “The contribution of the Republic of Belarus to regional and international security- starting with the nuclear and conventional disarmament in the early 90s- continues to be sizeable and real.”

Landmines: “On March 1, 2004, the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction entered-into-force in our country. We have the world’s seventh largest arsenal of such mines which we inherited from the Soviet Union. We do not produce, export or use antipersonnel landmines. Yet, guided by common interests, we have ratified the Ottawa Convention and count on the assistance of the international community in destroying this mine stockpile.”

Nuclear Energy: “From this rostrum, we propose to all our neighbors, to NATO and to the E.U. to engage in regional cooperation to secure critical infrastructure installations: oil and gas pipelines, electrical and nuclear power stations.”

“Affected and still experiencing the effects of the Chernobyl disaster, Belarus acutely realizes that mankind should not ignore the problem of radiation safety. The aftermath of radiological disasters is out of proportion, in its scale and duration, if compared to a human life span. The UN should be all means preserve its focus on the problem of overcoming the consequences of the Chernobyl disaster. It is necessary to develop further international Chernobyl cooperation, to provide UN support to the national initiatives and to improve coordination mechanisms of Chernobyl cooperation.

“We support the activity of the International Atomic Energy Agency aimed at maintaining nuclear non-proliferation regime, strengthening of nuclear and radiation safety.”

Security: “What do we want our common home to look like? Above all, I think, secure- where children would not die in terrorist attacks, of hunger, diseases, landmines ‘smart’ bombs and missiles.

“What should we do to achieve this? The answer is obvious: to create a comprehensive system of international security- in all its aspects: military, economic, environmental social and informational. The system based on the rule of law at home and in international affairs. The answer is obvious indeed, but the goal is hard to achieve.”

Terrorism: “We need unconventional, long-term and comprehensive solutions. Who and how can we ensure them? The United Nations and its key role alone. The Counter Terrorism Committee of the UN Security Council should become a practical instrument of restraining the expansion of international terrorism, strengthening the anti-terrorism coalition under the aegis of the United Nations, overseeing the implementation of requirements of the resolution 1373 and parting with the practice of double standards in fighting terrorism and terror.”

“In a day we will deposit our instruments of ratification and accession of the Republic of Belarus to such important international instruments in the sphere of security as the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism and the Protocol against Illicit Manufacturing and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition Supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime.”

Belgium
H.E. Mr. Karel de Gucht
September 24, 2004

Proliferation: “The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction poses a serious threat to world security. The regime of nonproliferation is jeopardized.

“North Korea must regain its place within this regime without delay.

The Islamic Republic of Iran is located in a region full of tension and its security concerns are legitimate… the Iranian Authorities must cooperate entirely with the IAEA and cease all activities linked to the enrichment of uranium.”

Terrorism: “Adequate military means and security measures will remain necessary in order to fight terrorism. But tackling it head-on will require other means than strictly military ones.

“Indeed, the favorable environment in which terrorism thrives comprises economic, political and ideological dimensions. That is why I plead for a genuine dialogue between the West and the Muslim and Arab world, not only between the political leaders but also with the spiritual leaders. Not as a mere exchange of ideas or points of view, but as an honest quest to identify the means that can deny terrorism all legitimacy and all ‘raison d’être.”

Belize
H.E. Mr. Stuart W. Leslie, Permanent Representative
September 30, 2004

Development and security: “In Haiti, we also have a clear example of the inextricable linkage between development and security. The threats and challenges to peace and security necessitate an integrated approach.”

SALW: “In our own community of small states, we face the most serious threat to our peoples’ security caused by the proliferation of small arms and light weapons that claim the lives of so many of our people daily; arms that come from countries that must be called upon to live up to their responsibility to cooperate with us to stem the flow of these lethal weapons and enter into legally binding agreements for the effective registration and monitoring of transfers of these weapons of widespread destruction. An International Convention to achieve this must be put on our agenda.”

Terrorism: “While we condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and have joined international efforts in the fight against terrorism, we are mindful that our actions for the preservation of peace and security must be consistent with international law and must be respectful of the human rights and freedoms of all peoples without discrimination, foremost among which must be the right to self-determination.”

Bhutan
H.E. Mr. Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 28, 2004

Terrorism: “There is an urgent need to take concerted action to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Every nation gathered here, by having signed the Charter of the United Nations, ascribes to the universal code that the methods which terrorist employ to achieve their aims, especially the targeting and killing of innocent civilians cannot be justified.”

Bolivia
H.E. Carlos D. Mesa Gisbery, President of the Republic of
September 22, 2004

Multilateralism: “We firmly believe in multilateralism and we strongly support the United Nations as the scenario of that multilateralism, and we are convinced that the time ahs come to produce a serious of reforms in the organization- comprehensive reforms.”

Terrorism: “The fight against terrorism must also be related to the fight against other scourges that are of concern to us all. In this context, Bolivia expresses its firmest commitment to the fight against drug trafficking, which is being conducted in Bolivia through the eradication of coca and also, through what has been a tradition of consumption in the country that needs to be dealt with.”

Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Mr. Sulejman Tihic, Chairman of the Presidency of
September 22, 2004

Terrorism: "Bosnia and Herzegovina is sincerely committed to combat the international terrorism and is the active participant in the International Antiterrorist Coalition. Terrorism is not the only threat to peace and security, but we also find it immoral and counterproductive."

Botswana
H.E. Mr. Festus G. Mogae, President of
September 23, 2004

International peace and security: "...international peace and security is under constant threat... As Africans, we accept our responsibility to find solutions to these conflicts. This is why we established the Peace and Security Council of the African Union in May this year. In its short history of existence, the Council has already deployed peacekeepers in Burundi, peace monitors in Darfur in the Sudan, and sent mediators and peace envoys to help negotiating solutions to conflicts elsewhere in the continent."

Terrorism: "Terrorism is one of the greatest challenges to international peace and security. No one country can defeat this scourge which has caused the loss of many lives across the globe. The activities of terrorists have become very complex and sophisticated. We need united, Stronger and concerted action by all the countries of the world to defeat this scourge which knows no boundaries."

Brazil
H.E. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of
September 21, 2004

International Peace and Security: “No organ is better suited than the UN for ensuring the world's convergence towards common goals. The Security Council is the only source of legitimate action in the field of international peace and security. But its composition must reflect today's reality – not perpetuate the post-World War II era. Reform proposals that simply dress the current structure in new clothes and do not provide for an increase in the number of permanent members are manifestly insufficient. The difficulties inherent to any reform process must not make us lose sight of its urgency.”

Terrorism: “The necessary fight against terrorism cannot be conceived strictly in military terms. We must develop strategies that encompass both solidarity and firmness, while strictly respecting international law.”

Brunei Darussalam
Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Special Envoy
September 28, 2004

DPRK: “In our region, we recognize that the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula has serious impact on the peace, stability and security of the Asia-Pacific. We appreciate the role of china, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Russia and the United States through the six party talks in seeking a solution through dialogue.”

Security: “Terrorism and weapons of mass destruction continue to pose serious threats. At the same time, poverty, environmental degradation and the spread of diseases cause further misery and hardship to millions.”

“All the various conventions and treaties, from nuclear nonproliferation to environmental conservation, are manifestations of how we and the United Nations aim at protecting our people as well as ensuring that they can live to their fullest potential.”

Terrorism: “It is therefore important to address (terrorism) in a comprehensive manner and in doing so, we need to identify and understand its real source and root causes. This is what we have to bear in mind if we were to achieve a long-term solution. At the same time, we must not allow terrorists from dividing us and undermining our determination to fight this menace collectively.”

Bulgaria
H.E. Dr. Solomon Passy, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

Security: “The respect for, and observance of internationally recognized standards of human rights by Member States is a pre-requisite both for their national security and sustainable development. It is also a pre-requisite for international peace and security.”

Terrorism: “International terrorism poses the most serious threat to international peace and security. This demands a coordinated and resolute action by all States and the entire international community. There are no causes that can justify terrorist acts. It is essential that terrorists do not get hold of weapons of mass destruction, nor distract us from our agenda outlined by the Millennium Declaration.”

“We are committed to pursue steadfastly this policy of ours, even though we have incurred damages and human losses.”

“Within the United Nations system the Security Council and its Counter Terrorism Committee are vested with the task of ensuring success in the fight against international terrorism. We share the opinion that Security Council resolution 1535 and the creation of the new Counter Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate have improved the coordination in this field. The Al Qaida and Taliban Committee beefed up in 2004 with the Monitoring Group and Sanctions Enforcement Support Team should also continue its positive influence.

“We actively support all efforts under the Security Council resolutions 1373 and 1267 in narrowing down the perimeters of action of terrorist organizations and suppressing their financing.”

Cambodia
H.E. Mr. Hor Namhong, Deputy Prime Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
September 27, 2004

Terrorism: “Since 9-11, the responses to terrorism at global, regional and national levels have been significant and massive. Cooperation in the fight against terrorism has been unprecedented in the history of information sharing and law enforcement. Nevertheless, in spite of the progress in our efforts, countries from around the world continue to suffer from terrorist attacks and innocent people continue to die from terrorist acts. Therefore, I believe that our response to this deadly threat to humanity must be more comprehensive. However, while fighting terrorism relentlessly, I also believe that we should do our best to understand the real root causes of terrorism. Until we are able to do this, then we can hope to eliminate terrorism.”

Canada
H.E. Mr. Paul Martin, Prime Minister of
September 22, 2004

Export controls: "The UN's nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, needs stronger tools and political support. We need more rigorous controls on sensitive nuclear technology, and the Security Council must be prepared to deal with non-compliance effectively."

"We need a multilateral watchdog to assist the Security Council in resolving weapons-related issues in states of concern. The UN should establish a permanent inspection and verification mechanism that can reinforce and supplement existing verification systems."

PAROS: "Space is our final frontier. It has always captured our imagination. What a tragedy it would be if space became one big weapons arsenal and the scene of a new arms race. In 1967, the United Nations agreed that weapons of mass destruction must not be based in space. The time has come to extend this ban to all weapons."

Proliferation: "(a) Responsibility to Deny... encompasses the need to ensure that weapons of mass destruction do not spread to states or terrorists prepared to use them under any circumstances, and especially against innocent civilians. Non-proliferation and disarmament remain fundamental pillars of the UN's commitment to international peace and security."

Verification: "... multilateralism has been challenged by dramatic changes in the security climate, and there is a clear need to make our systems stronger and more responsive. Strict verification is the key. "

Chile
H.E. Mr. Ricardo Lagos Escobar, President of
September 21, 2004

Civil Society: "We are thus convinced that globalization will be better only if civil society is recognized as one of its principal actors."

Multilateralism: "No one can shape the world that is emerging except through agreements and negotiations. The complexity of the world emerging before our eyes is too great to be handled in a centralized manner."

"In our view, the best way to guide the agenda of globalization is through multilateralism. It is in the strengthening of multilateralism that each country has a stake and a national task to fulfill."

Terrorism: "Nothing is more counter to our principles than terrorism, a virtual 'dark force' of globalization. Accordingly, here in the United Nations, Chile has contributed through its efforts in chairing both the Al Qaeda/Taliban Security Council Sanctions Committee and the Counter-Terrorism Committee, key instruments of the international community for waging this combat."

Transparency: "In addition, the United Nations needs specialization, not a proliferation of similar institutions. It needs greater accountability and a more transparent system of recruitment. It needs to derive the maximum benefit from every last cent that it spends."

China
H.E. Mr. Li Zhaoxing, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 27, 2004

Security: “In tackling security issues, it is imperative to foster a new security concept of mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality and cooperation. This new concept calls for nations to transcend their differences in ideology and social system, respect each other’s security interests, promote greater democracy in international relations and seek peaceful solutions to disputes through dialogue.”

Proliferation: “The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction poses a threat to world peace and security. Nonproliferation efforts, therefore, require participation of all members of the international community. It is likewise important to discard unilateralism and double standards and give full credit and fully play to the role of the UN.

“China takes an active part in multilateral nonproliferation efforts and firmly defends the international regime of arms control, disarmament and nonproliferation treaties. China holds that multilateral arms control, disarmament and nonproliferation processes be steadily promoted so as to further improve the international nonproliferation regime.”

“China will, as always, work to resolve the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula through dialogue and talks in the interest of peace and stability on the Peninsula.”

Terrorism: “Terrorism is the common enemy of the whole world. China stands firmly opposed to terrorism, in all forms and manifestations. To forestall and fight terrorism, we must intensify international cooperation and address both the causes and symptoms of the threat. Only when the root cause of terrorism is eradicated can the peoples live in peace and tranquility again.”

Colombia
H.E. Mr. Alvaro Uribe Velez, President of
September 29, 2004

Security: “Democratic security is one of the elements of Colombia’s highest priorities: to recover credibility and confidence by our citizens in our institutions. When that trust is destroyed, the ties between the citizen and the nation are broken. Such trust needs transparent public and private actions, as well as economic reactivation and social cohesion.”

“If we neglect democratic security, terrorism will grow, we will lose momentum in defeating it, investment will be affected, the strength of our economic recovery will weaken and we would be left without resources for social investment.”

Terrorism: “The terrorism in one country feeds and strengthens terrorist networks throughout the world.”

“We ask the world for more decisive and more effective support if it is extended, the violent groups will have no option but to abandon terrorism and to accept peace.

“With the people of Colombia, its democratic institutions and the international community united, we can make Colombia an example of the capacity to defeat terrorism and to observe human rights; and we can make Colombia an example of the capacity to defeat terrorism and of the will to build social justice.”

Costa Rica
H.E. Dr. Abel Pacheco de la Espriella, President of
September 21, 2004

Arms Expenditures: "It is noteworthy that, in 2003, the world reached a new record by devoting 956 billion dollars to military expenditure. This represents seventeen times the amount of resources devoted, worldwide, to official development assistance and more than the sum of the foreign debt of the 64 countries with the lowest GDP.

"...As pointedly noted by Dr. Oscar Arias, former president of Costa Rica and Nobel Peace prize, 'the billions of dollars spent every year on weapons and on military contingents deprive the world's poorest people's of the chance of fulfilling their basic needs."

Disarmament: "States should have greater opportunities to access international cooperation, credit and the markets while the prices should be fair, reflecting the real costs. It is not fair that poor countries, such as Costa Rica, that are making efforts in the areas of disarmament, respect for human rights, labor justice, protection of the environment and greater social investment be penalized by excluding them from the lists of beneficiaries of cooperation programs and from systems of preferential treatment for the access of their products to the markets of developed countries."

Security: "...mankind has not understood yet that security does not result from a multiplication of the weapons but from a multiplication of the loaves of bread. Peace and security are built, in the first place, by combating injustice, satisfying the basic needs, striving for common social goals and by a fair and honest government.

"The aphorism that 'the security of one is inseparable from the security of all' becomes truer every day. Global democratic governance requires strengthening both the United Nations and the competences of the General Assembly."

Small Arms: "In this regard, Costa Rica fully supports the draft Framework Convention on International Arms Transfers. That project, based on the obligations already undertaken by states, seeks to regulate the export of weapons, their marking and tracing, in order to prevent any arms transfers to terrorist and rebel groups and to those states that breach international humanitarian law or basic human rights principles."

Terrorism: "Allow me to refer to one of the worst scourges that affect the peaceful relations among the nations: the threat of terrorism...

"The international society must confront, firmly and resolutely, all acts of terrorism, whose painful and deadly consequences distress so many nations and so many innocent victims. It is essential to co combat all forms of terrorism as well as its sources of financing and safe havens...

"The coordination of the struggle against terrorism must be assigned to an independent, professional and permanent organ located at the center of this Organization.

For this reason, we propose the creation of a United Nations High Commissioner on Terrorism that would assist the Security Council, as well as the General Assembly and the ECOSOC, in the comprehensive fight against this threat and its causes. Only by creating such an organ, that would assemble resources and multiply efforts, it will be possible to respond adequately and jointly to the challenge posed by international terrorism."

Croatia
H.E. Dr. Ivo Sander, Prime Minister of
September 22, 2004

CTBT: "Croatia has consistently supported bringing into force the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty and we call on those that have not yet done so to sign and ratify the CTBT as soon as possible."

Landmines: "We encourage those countries that have not signed or ratified the Ottawa Convention to do so without delay. As a country that has directly experienced the disastrous effect of landmines, Croatia is particularly concerned with the continuation of their spread."

Multilateralism: "Effective regional action also remains important. In this respect, while we are aware of the irreplaceable importance of global multilateralism, a growing signficance of the regional organizations has to be emphasized. In today's world, regional organizations have an increasingly important role to play, in accord with the major multilateral institutions, primarily the United Nations."

NPT: "My country considers arms control to be a pivotal instrument of its security policy. I would like to reiterate our continued support for the further strengthening of major international disarmament and non-proliferation instruments, such as the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. We expect concrete results from the upcoming NPT Review Conference in 2005."

SALW: "Equal importance should be given to prevent illict trafficking in small arms and light weapons. Their uncontrolled proliferation not only fuels regional conflicts, but also plays a considerable role in terrorism, drug trafficking and organized crime. Croatia has achieved commendable progress in this field and is prepared to assist others, both in our region and beyond."

Terrorism: "Tragic events in recent years, from New York to Moscow, from the Middle East all the way to Southern Asia, have confirmed that terrorism currently stands out as the most pressing threat to our world, taking thousands of innocent lives at random."

"Croatia commends and fully supports the ongoing activities of the Counter-Terrorism Committee, and welcomes its recent reform. However, the Committee has to improve its outreach in order to provide a comprehensive and truly effective multilateral response to this precarious scourge."

Verification: " My country believes that particular emphasis should be placed on establishing and refining effective verification mechanisms for the CTBT and the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention."

WMD: "Equally dangerous (to terrorism) is the threat of weapons of mass destruction. We must resort to all means required to prevent the proliferation of these vehicles of death. If synergized- terrorism and WMD- they could bring upon mankind a level of destruction of an unforeseeable scale."

"We equally recognize the importance of the Security Council Committee established by the Resolution 1540 with the goal of stopping the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and expect to see all countries submitting their first reports on the matter."

Cuba
H.E. Mr. Felipe Pérez Roque, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004

General and Complete Disarmament: “General and complete disarmament, including nuclear disarmament, is impossible today. It is the responsibility of a group of developed countries that are the ones that most sell and buy weapons. However, we must continue to strive for it. We must demand that the over US$900 billion set aside every year for military expenditures be used on development…”

Nuclear weapons: (quoting President Castro): “The noise of weapons, of the menacing language, of the haughtiness on the international scene must cease. Enough of the illusion that the problems of the world can be solved by nuclear weapons. Bombs may kill the hungry, the sick and the ignorant, but bombs cannot kill hunger, disease and ignorance. Nor can bombs kill the righteous rebellion of the people.”

Terrorism: “The fight against terrorism can only be won through cooperation among all nations and with respect for international law, and not through massive bombings of pre-emptive wars against ‘dark corners of the world."

Cyprus
H.E. Mr. Tassos Papdopoulos, President of
September 23, 2004

Landmines: "...my Government has recently proposed... the extension of the so far unilateral de-mining process."

Terrorism: "We share the assessment of the Secretary-General in his Report that our endeavour of consolidating effective multilateralism in a flexible and versatile United Nations is the best way to address the complete spectrum of global crises... Such consolidation also applies to security deficits and particularly terrorism the underlying causes of which we have been unable to eliminate despite our concerted efforts. We consider that the conclusion of a United Nations comprehensive convention against terrorism is important in order to facilitate the elimination of the threat posed by terrorism, in the framework of international legality."

Czech Republic
H.E. Mr. Cyril Svoboda, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 29, 2004

Security: “Security- or lack of it- has emerged as the most challenging problem. International terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, regional conflicts, state failure or organized crime- these are the threats menacing all of us.”

Terrorism: “The diffusion of targets and absolute resolve mean that terrorist threats have completely permeated our public and private space, each area of which has become a place of defense. All this could ultimately lead to very disagreeable restrictions in certain freedoms and rights. And this takes us full circle. If we are lax in understanding our roots and values, if we do not have a comprehensive grasp of human rights, we could find that in the end we are unable to cope with the uneasy balance between security and freedom.

“Terrorist attacks are not just a reaction… to our provocation… Their ideology is aggressive and expansive… each offer we make to negotiate, each sign of unwillingness to defend ourselves is seen by them as further proof of our weakness and, by extension, of their ‘right’ to assume control of declining society.

“In the fight against terrorism, nobody can stay neutral. And the UN has to pave the way for this fight at the global level. To be sure, the Counter-Terrorism Committee has done an outstanding job in overseeing the implementation of Security Council Resolution 1373 and facilitating the universal acceptance of the UN conventions on terrorism, but certainly more can and should be done.”

DPRK
H.E. Mr. Choe Su Hon, Head of DPRK Delegation
September 27, 2004

Disarmament: “Denuclearizing the Korean peninsula is our goal, and it is the consistent position of the DPRK to address the nuclear issue between the DPRK and the US peacefully through dialogue and negotiations.”

“In order to further clarify our will to dismantle the nuclear deterrent, we had intended to include in our freeze no more manufacturing of nuclear weapons, and no test and transfer of them.”

International security: “Today, the main factor undermining international peace and stability is unilateralism and high-handed acts based on the ‘logic’ of power.”

Nuclear weapons: “The DPRK is left with no other option but to possess a nuclear deterrent in the face of the situation in which the present US administration, being accustomed to rejecting our system, has been attempting to eliminate the DPRK by force while designating it as part of an ‘axis of evil’ and a target of preemptive nuclear strikes.”

“The nuclear deterrent of the DPRK constitutes a legitimate self-defensive means to counter ever-growing US nuclear threat and aggression against the DPRK and reliably defend sovereignty, peace and security of the country.”

Denmark
H.E. Dr. Per Stig Moller, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

DDR: “In order to build sustainable peace, much more attention needs to be given to civilian aspects of crisis management. This includes demobilization and reintegration of combatants, as well as social, economic and legal reconstruction of war-torn societies.”

Multilateralism: “The challenge is to develop credible, effective, and comprehensive UN responses to the threats and challenges of the new Millennium. Be it conflict prevention, conflict resolution and peace building. Be it the fight against terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction…”

Proliferation: “…we must strengthen international agreements to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Denmark therefore supports Security Council resolution 1540, and looks forward to its full implementation.”

Terrorism and WMD: “Terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction are serious threats to peace and security and impede progress towards stability and prosperity… Terrorists must be stopped by hard power and soft power to prevent decades of unrest and terror.”

“The United Nations must take a leading role in the fight against terrorism, providing both the framework for global efforts and the legitimacy for collective action.”

“The main responsibility for fighting terrorism lies with individual states. This includes compliance with relevant Security Council resolutions as well as ratification and implementation of the twelve UN Terror Conventions. Denmark supports efforts to reinvigorate the Counter Terrorism Committee, CTC… (which) must be better focused and linked with the assistance extended to countries who have the will but lack the means to meet the requirements of Security Council irresolution 1373.”

Djibouti
H.E. Mr. Ismail Omar Guelleh
September 22, 2004

Arms expenditures: "Conflict, of course, requires weapons; and reducing this peril calls for a halt in arms shipments. These shipments divert vital resources from other critical needs. The countries of Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa spend some $22 billion for arms each year, more than two thirds the value of arms deliveries worldwide."

DDR: "It is now the responsibility of the international community to at in tandem in a strong and decisive manner to assist Somalia by... tackl(ing) the security issues head-on, in particular, with the implementation of Demobilization, Disarmament and Reintegration programs."

Security: "... there is a mounting recognition that global poverty and inequality threaten national security interests."

Terrorism: "Although there is no disputing the fact that (terrorism) must be confronted promptly and vigorously, the knee-jerk reaction of crushing it militarily fails to address its many manifestations, or get at its roots and causes. As we contemplate solutions to problems, or seek a way out of political predicaments that have been building quietly for decades, we need to pay extra caution to our prejudices, biases and fears."

"Now, in the post-9/11 world, a new rationale for aid is emerging. Aid is increasingly seen as a potent force in the war on terror by providing support to both frontline and weak states where terrorism could breed."

Dominica
Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister of
September 24, 2004

Security: “Every cent spent on addressing (terrorism) is a cent taken from our campaign to sustain the fight against trafficking in narcotic drugs and human beings, the pandemic of HIV/AIDS and other communicable diseases, and degradation of our common environment. Water security, food security, energy security and health security are other important goals that stand to suffer if additional resources are not found to pursue them.”

“Developments over the last year have underscored that peace and security in the world, social progress, and economic prosperity require a consensus of member states, the strict implementation of universal norms, and commitment to multilateral action.”

SALW: “In the Caribbean region, as well as other regions of the world, we are witnessing the devastating impact of the proliferation of small arms. As a consequence, crime rates are increasing and civil conflicts are on the upsurge, which threaten the stability and security of developing countries such as mine.

“We therefore call for early conclusion of the negotiations of a legally binding international instrument to control the indiscriminate supply of small arms and light weapons to non-state actors.”

Terrorism: “My country is alarmed at the rise of terrorism in the world. Indeed as we move toward a more united world where people of different races and colors are called upon to pay higher standards of respect and tolerance for each other, violent solutions are counter productive and have unintended consequences of harming mere bystanders.”

“The focus on terrorism and the costs of complying with the requirements to prevent terrorist attacks in a region that is renowned as a zone of peace, are challenging our commitment to social and economic development.”

Ecuador
H.E. Mr. Patricio Zuquilanda, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004

Multilateralism: “Ecuador, as a founding member of the United Nations, accords its resolute support to the multilateral system, as it constitutes the best guarantee for the validity of the purposes and principles that led to its creation and which are enshrined in its charter.”

Security: “The international community needs to make the protection and security of all individuals a world policy objective. The security of the state, of society and of individuals must consider the threats to their fundamental values: sovereignty, identity and survival, and on that basis, to establish the dimensions of political, economic, and military action in a globalized world.”

Terrorism: “This phenomenon has endangered the balance, the peace, the concord, and the security of the entire planet, as well as its socio-political fabric, its financial architecture, and state security concessions.

“I wish to reiterate the fullest and unrestricted support of the gov’t of Ecuador to all initiatives and actions formulated to fight international terrorism in all its forms and characteristics, but always within the framework of the decisions of the Untied Nations, of international law and of the absolute respect of human rights.”

“…harsh realities faced every day by developing countries also represent at threat to world security. In consequence, they must launch at the same time a frontal combat against terrorism in a broad and concerted world strategy to foster development, improve the living conditions of a large part of the marginalized world population and encourage dialogue and tolerance, both between human beings as well as between the states.

“True to its convinctions and principles, as well as to its international commitments, the government of Ecuador has deployed its best efforts towards the effective enforcement of international regulations with respect to the prevention and suppression of terrorism; particularly of Security Council resolution 1373, for which it has designed a broad strategy that includes legislative, administrative, law enforcement and other measures…"

Egypt
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 24, 2004

Nuclear Weapons: “The main threat to the Middle East, and perhaps adjacent regions as well, flows from the continued acquisition by some of nuclear weapons. While we all agree on the dangers of those weapons, and the need to halt their proliferation, as a step towards their elimination and ridding humanity of the threats they pose, the international community continues to be selective in addressing the question of WMD. The international community seeks to impose a firm regime to monitor the imports of all member states of the nonproliferation regime, among them are all the Arab states. The same international community, however, turns a blind eye at the continued stockpiling of nuclear capabilities by one party in the region.”

NWFZ: “…in order to ease that tension and to avert those dangers, President Mubarak launched in 1990 Egypt’s initiative to create a Middle East zone free from WMDs.”

Terrorism: “For more than a decade, Egypt has called, and continues to call, for the convening of an international conference, under the auspices of the United Nations, to consider the phenomenon of terrorism and to agree on means to combat it through effective and collective international efforts. Proceeding from our belief in the importance and centrality of the role of the United Nations, (whether through the GA or the Security Council), in the coordination of international efforts to combat terrorism, we propose that the GA establish an open-ended working group to consider proposals to increase the effectiveness and the efficiency of the UN and its ability to achieve the international goals in the area of combating terrorism. This can be accompanied by the convening of regional preparatory meetings to catalog the regional needs and the areas of cooperation on the international level. This in turn could lead us, ultimately, to the adoption of the draft comprehensive framework convention to combat terrorism in a high-level international summit.”

“We will not be able to eradicate the threat of terrorism without an equitable and just international economic and social system in which we must take into account the needs of the others as much as we strive to achieve our own interests.”

El Salvador
H.E. Mr. Elías Antonio Saca, President of
September 22, 2004

Terrorism: "International and international conflicts, terrorism, transnational organized crime, the persistence of extreme poverty, environmental degradation and the irresolute problems of development have a global character that require a central harmonizer that harnesses the efforts of the international community to find a common and consensus-based solution."

Estonia
H.E. Mr. Arnold Ruutel, President of
September 22, 2004

Security: "Abatement of poverty in the world, which is one of the central issues on the global development agenda, would facilitate international stability and security... High level international conferences held in Doha, Monterrey and Johannesburg showed us the direction we should move; now we need concrete deeds."

Ethiopia
H.E. Mr. Seyoum Mesfin, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 28, 2004

Terrorism: “We all agree that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is a crime against humanity. As our Secretary-General rightly stated in his address to this august Assembly, ‘no cause, no grievance, however legitimate in itself can begin to justify such acts.’ Thus the international community should fight this scourge with resolve and in unison.”

Eritrea
H.E. Mr. Ali Said Abdella, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 29, 2004

no references to disarmament, security, terrorism etc.

Finland
H.E. Mr. Tarja Halonen, President of
September 21, 2004

Multilateralism: "There is no sustainable alternative to multilateralism. The international community must recognize its collective responsibility. We must be able to intervene and prevent situations in which where human rights are seriously violated."

Fiji
Hon. Laisenia Qarase, Prime Minister of
September 24, 2004

Disarmament: “Fiji, as always, is committed to the maintenance of peace and security, and to a world free of weapons of mass destruction and terrorism.”

Terrorism: “The plea from Fiji is for the UN member countries to strengthen their joint resolve to oppose political terror everywhere. This is a critical time in history; the UN is called to mobilize all its experience, its skills and its powers to create concord among nations.”

“(The Pacific Islands Forum) will come together to combat the threat of terror, to improve law enforcement and our defenses against terrorism and transnational crime.”

France
H.E. Mr. Michel Barnier, Foreign Minister of
September 23, 2004

NPT: "The threat of proliferation, which is liable to merge with terrorism, calls for resolute and sustained action. The non-proliferation regime has been seriously undermined by the combined action of certain states and non-state actors. That is why strengthening the existing instruments is essential. The NPT review conference in 2005 will be an opportunity to do so."

Terrorism: "We wage a merciless fight against terrorism. let us at the same time address its roots. This means: put an end to situations that terrorists exploit; give the world's excluded hope again; restore dignity to peoples deprived of it; see that dialogue and cooperation among civilizations, cultures and religions prevail rather than conflict and intolerance."

Gambia
H.E. Alhaji Dr. Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh, President of
September 23, 2004

Terrorism: "Terrorism is not for any one individual state to fight. It is a phenomenon that calls for strong inter-state collaboration and assistance...And while the needs of some countries, including mine, have been adequately identified, assistance has been slow in coming. My delegation welcomes the creation of a directorate to help give effect to resolution 1373, and looks forward to a speedy commencement of its operations, especially with regard to the assistance needs of member states."

Georgia
H.E. Mikheil Saakashvili, President of
September 21, 2004

Confidence Building Measures: "...initiate confidence building measures that follow a plan, so that new forms of trust are established that create lasting human bonds between peoples. These measures can include exchanges that link NGOs to NGOs... Building confidence means pursuing joint economic projects that create wealth where today there is want... and create profits where now there is poverty."

DDR: "Specific measures... begin with removing the instruments of war through demilitarization and eliminating the climate of fear through decriminalization."

"Today, Georgia needs bridges not bases, roads and not rockets, and we need cooperation, not competition when it comes to eliminating sources of instability and terror."

Terrorism: "In the context of our cooperation with international anti-terrorism efforts, we especially value the work of the Antiterrorist Committee of the Security Council and support the idea of strengthening the Terrorism Prevention Branch of the Secretariat."

"...uncontrolled zones breed crime, drug trafficking, arms trading and most notable(y), terrorism."

Verification: "These (CBMs) will require monitoring, verification and transparency, so that our collective march towards peace can be visible for all."

Germany
H.E. Mr. Joschka Fischer, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 23, 2004

Multilateralism: "We are convinced there is no alternative to a world acting multilaterally. And to make this multilateral cooperation sustainable and capable, we need a courageous and comprehensive reform of the UN."

Security: " On the one hand, there are threats to national and global security such as the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, the nuclear threat, the danger posed by failed states or, as we all painfully remember in this city, by terrorism.

"On the other hand, there are also so-called 'soft' threats such as far-reaching environmental and climatic changes, poverty, major shortfalls in education and training and the negative aspects of globalization, refugee flows, disease and epidemics such as HIV/AIDS and malaria. They are a threat to security and stability and take a heavy toll."

Ghana
H.E. Mr. Alhaji Aliu Mahama, Vice-President of
September 23, 2004

Multilateralism: "11th September reminds us of the importance of seeking a multilateral and peaceful means for the maintenance of international peace and security, especially now when it has become evident that only collective, multilateral efforts will suffice to defeat the new scourge of mankind- global terrorism>'

Greece
H.E. Mr. Petros Molyviatis, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

International security: "Besides the scourge of terrorism, however, there are many more challenges and grave problems that afflict humanity. Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, human trafficking, organized crime, failing states, environmental catastrophes, social and economic crises, pandemics, large scale humanitarian disasters, hunger and poverty, constitute the core problems we have to face in solidarity regardless of geography, culture or religion."

Terrorism: "Fighting international terrorism has become the most pressing task among our priorities. In this fight, we must prevail."

"Terrorism cannot be a weapon to achieve political goals and terrorist attacks cannot be justified by any means."

Grenada
H.E. Dr. Lamuel A. Stanislaus, Permanent Representative
September 30, 2004

no references to disarmament, security, terrorism etc.

Guatemala
H.E. Mr. Oscar Berger Perdomo, President of
September 22, 2004

no references to disarmament, security, terrorism etc.

Guyana
H.E. Mr. S.R. Insanally, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Republic of
September 29, 2004

SALW: “The process underway to stem the illicit global trade in small arms and light weapons… commands Guyana’s full support.”

Terrorism: “The scourge of terrorism has now reached a scale where it has been aptly described as a Third World War. Scarce resources must now be diverted from development to the war on terror. Yet the rampage of destruction continues unrestrained.”

“The process underway … to forge more effective international instruments against terrorism and transnational crime commands Guyana’s full support.”

Holy See
H.E. Archbishop Giovanni Lajolo, Secretary for the Holy See’s Relations with States
September 29, 2004

General and complete disarmament: “Of immediate relevance to the supreme good of peace is the theme of total and general disarmament. If it is true that the production and sale of arms to other countries endangers peace, it follows that severe and effective international controls are needed.”

Terrorism: “The underlying causes are many and complex: political, social, cultural, religious; for this reason, what is still more important is long-term action, directed, with foresight and patience, at its roots, designed to stop it from spreading further and to extinguish its deadly contagious effects.”

WMD: “The problem of weapons of mass destruction is clearly to be distinguished from that of conventional weapons; but the latter have a terrible and unending contemporary relevance in the numerous armed conflicts that stain the world with blood, and also in terrorism.”

Hungary
H.E. Mr. Gábor Bródi, Deputy State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of
September 29, 2004

NPT: “In our fast-changing security environment worldwide, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons is and should remain the cornerstone of the universal non-proliferation regime. Along with our E.U. partners, we are committed to safeguard the authority and the integrity of the Treaty. It is also in this context that we are looking forward to the 7th Review Conference of the NPT next year.”

Proliferation: “The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery continue to be a clear and present threat to international peace and security. New discoveries of large-scale nuclear weapon programs, networks of illicit trafficking in nuclear material and technology and the ill-conceived policies of denial and deceit about their purpose and nature, remain a most serious concern to the international community.”

“Hungary strongly supports the implementation of Security Council resolution 1540, calling on all states to establish effective national export controls. We call for the full implementation of this resolution. In addition to that, we are prepared to assist others in doing so.”

Terrorism: “We fully support the important work of the Counter-Terrorism Committee of the Security Council. We hope that its reinvigorated activity, including planned visits by the CTC to Member States, will contribute to the enhancement of our capability to combat terrorism.”

Iceland
H.E. Mr. Geir H. Haarde, Minister of Finance and acting Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004

Multilateralism: “Iceland is totally committed to the multilateral system of which the UN is the fulcrum. Without an effective multilateral system conflict and its causes will be much more difficult to address. But to be effective the system needs to change.”

Terrorism: “The war against terrorism is a struggle against barbarism. The perpetrators of terror must be rooted out and their bases and networks destroyed. This war is inherently a campaign in support of the values the UN seeks to foster and it is in response to a threat which has serious implications for all member states of our organization. Our challenge is to actively defend freedom against the forces of tyranny to affect the conditions which help create the specter of terrorism.”

India
H.E. Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of
September 23, 2004

Disarmament: "As far back as 1988, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had outlined a series of specific steps in an Action Plan, whose central proposition remains valid- that progressive steps toward the elimination of weapons of mass destruction must be based on a balance of obligations between those who possess such weapons and those who do not. It is quite evident today that a global discussion is required for evolving a more cooperative and consensual international security order. India believes that this consensus must differentiate between States whose actions strengthen non-proliferation and those that weaken its objective."

Multilateralism: "Democracy's representative nature validates the commitments we take on as countries; it should also determine the manner in which the architecture of international institutions evolves. For what is required for the international community to successfully deal with global challenges, whether they be security challenges, economic challenges or challenges in the sphere of the environment are the existence of international institutions and a culture of genuine multilateralism."

Proliferation: "There is an increasing reliance on restrictive regimes and the use of punitive action to confront (the threat of WMD proliferation). While India is opposed to proliferation and has an impeccable record in this respect, we believe that it is only a global consensus of willing nations that would ultimately prove to be more effective in this regard.

"The Chemical Weapons Convention is a good model to follow in respect of other weapons of mass destruction including nuclear weapons. It is through representative institutions rather than exclusive clubs of privileged countries that we can address global threats posed by proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery."

Terrorism: "Terrorism is one such (transnational) challenge for which many of us have paid an unacceptable price... Terrorism exploits the technologies spawned by globalization, recruits its foot soldiers on ideologies of bigotry and hatred, and directly targets democracies. And yet it is an sad reality that international networks of terror appear to cooperate more and effectively among themselves than the democratic nations that they target. We speak about cooperation, but seem hesitant to commit ourselves to a global offensive to root out terrorism..."

Indonesia
H.E. Dr. N. Hassan Wirajuda, Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 27, 2004

Terrorism: “Our faith remains firm that the fight against terror can be won. The world can be made immensely safer. But the global coalition to defeat terrorism must be inclusive. It must be multilateral and democratic. It must empower the moderates of the world.

“And it must address the root causes of terrorism: the grievances and the poignant sense of injustice that drive human beings to such depths of despair, they would carry out the most heinous acts of mass murder and destruction.

“It must address the grievances due to poverty that is the offshoot of social and economic inequities, the affronts of tyranny and corruption, and the failure of states to deliver a standard of living that befits human dignity. They include grievances due to political oppression, such as the aggression and brutalities that the Palestinian people continue to suffer in the hands of the occupying power.

“For the coalition that would fight terrorism and poverty to be truly multilateral and democratic, it must include the regional organizations, which have been envisioned in the UN Charter as the pillars of global multilateralism.”

Iran
H.E. Dr. Kamal Kharrazi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 24, 2004

Disarmament and Proliferation: “… one particular area that requires resolute action by the international community is the existence and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction… Iran feels very strongly about the absolute imperative of a collective and rule based multilateral campaign to eradicate all these weapons and to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons as an interim measure. This must be done by the universal application of disarmament and nonproliferation instruments in a comprehensive and non-discriminatory manner.”

NWFZ: “Iran has been in the forefront of efforts to establish a zone free from weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East.”

Security: “Extremism has two distinct and yet interconnected faces: violence and terrorism of non-state actors and unbridled militarism of states. The former leads to increasing insecurity and the latter to increasing lawlessness. Insecurity is manifested in the horrendous acts of extreme violence and terrorism; whether it is in Iraq, Afghanistan or in Russia. Lawlessness is manifested in going outside of the law among nations and the UN Charter, relying on the glorification of force and the brute use of the military might. Lawless militarism of the powerful has given rise to increasing violence and terrorism and is also marketed as the panacea to them.”

Terrorism: “As terrorism has become an international challenge, an effective fight against it requires a global approach based on collective cooperation under the provisions of the UN Charter as well as the principles of the international law…

“The Islamic Republic of Iran strongly condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and we have demonstrated our strong conviction in fighting terrorism by the arrest and hand over of the greatest number of Al-Qaeda members apprehended by any single state to date… However, the prevailing international approach which is primarily a law and order approach is clearly failing to curb terrorism. We need to revisit our premises and try to develop a genuinely collective, inclusive and well-rounded and multi-disciplinary approach, if we are serious about this fight. No state can even come close to doing it alone.”

Transparency: “…the legitimate disarmament and nonproliferation concerns of the international community must be addressed through transparency and vigorous application of monitoring mechanisms. Iran has always been prepared to contribute actively to this global effort.”

Universality: “The (arms control) multilateral instruments must become truly universal and the rights and obligations of all must be scrupulously enforced. Access to technology for peaceful purposes is the only true incentive for the universality of these instruments.”

Ireland
H.E. Mr. Brian Cowen, T.D., Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

Conventional weapons: "The proliferation of conventional weapons is causing enormous death and destruction. Concerted international action is required to effectively tackle their devastating impact on societies worldwide, particularly in developing countries. It is a sobering statistic that annual global spending on defense is estimated to be in the region of 950 billion euros. We need to progressively reallocate the world's resources towards more peaceful and developmental purposes."

Landmines: "This year we commemorate the fifth anniversary of the entry-into-force of the Ottawa Convention on Landmines. I look forward to the first Review Conference in Nairobi which will not only provide an opportunity to measure progress made but also to consider how to achieve universal respect for the principles and application of this important Treaty."

NPT: "During the period of this General Assembly, we will meet to review again the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Ireland and its partners in the New Agenda Coalition are determined to strengthen the Treat, and to ensure respect for its provisions, and we call on all States to make this a key priority. THe possession of nuclear weapons by States outside the Treaty, and non-compliance with its provisions by States Parties is a grave concern.

"Ireland is convinced that disarmament and non-proliferation are mutually reinforcing and that both must be vigorously pursued. We need therefore to build on the outcome of the 2000 Review Conference, which, in thirteen practical steps, provided a realistic and coherent blueprint for achieving nuclear disarmament. A firm commitment to, and a clear prospect of, nuclear disarmament, combined with a rigorous control regime, would help to strip nuclear weapons of the attraction that they now possess for some States. Let us therefore rededicate ourselves to the task of consigning nuclear weapons, and all weapons of mass destruction, to the dustbin of history. It is an ideal, but one worth striving for."

SALW: "Here at the United Nations, I welcome the progress made towards the negotiation of an INstrument on tracing and marking small arms and light weapons, an instrument which I hope will be legally binding."

Terrorism: "Terrorism can rarely be defeated by exclusively military or security means, though they are obviously a very necessary component in the fight against terrorism. It is necessary, at the same time, to address the root causes of terrorism....

"Let there be no misunderstanding. I offer no excuses for terrorism. Terrorism is evil. But it is my strong belief that people are not born evil. At a certain point in their life, something-perhaps a particular event or the experience of indoctrination- causes them to embrace evil. To seek to address that root cause is not to be soft on terrorism. It is the intelligent way to attack terrorism.

"Terrorism tests the effectiveness of our national and collective security systems, but it also tests the quality of our institutions, including our systems of justice, and the strength of our values. As we seek to protect ourselves, we must ensure that these institutions remain strong, that democratic values are not undermines, that our systems of justice are not compromised and that our struggle is conducted in full respect for international law and human rights norms. If we fail to do this, any success we achieve over terrorists will be at the expense of the way of life we seek to protect."

WMD: "Weapons of mass destruction, chemical, biological and nuclear, give rise to a unique- fear- a fear of widespread annihilation. This fear is itself a source of instability, and a clear threat to international peace and security. That such weapons might fall into the hands of terrorists is an appalling prospect."

Israel
H.E. Silvan Shalom, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 23, 2004

Proliferation: "Today we are also more united than ever in opposition to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The international community now realizes that Iran- with missiles that can reach London, Paris, Berlin and southern Russia- does not only pose a threat to the security of Israel, but to the security and stability of the whole world."

Terrorism: "...the world is beginning to realize what we, in Israel, have long known: That terrorism is a challenge to humanity as a whole, not just to individual countries; that the response to this global threat must also be global, if it is to be effective; that the threat of terrorism anywhere is a threat to freedom everywhere; that fighting terror is crucial to our ability to bring peace.

"There was a time, when the problems of terror, Islamic fundamentalism and Iranian nuclear ambition, were seen as local problems- Israel's problems- not challenges which threatened the community of nations as a whole."

Italy
H.E. Hon. Franco Frattini, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004

Multilateralism: "In our globalized, interdependent world, the international organizations are expected to provide leadership not only through abstract formulations of general principles but also through effective, shared initiatives supported by broad consensus. Our priority is to strengthen the multilateral system and reinvigorate the role of the United Nations."

Terrorism: "This year's general debate unfolds against an international backdrop in which terrorist acts of great ferocity have become all too common."

Jamaica
H.E. Hon. K.D. Knight, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of
September 27, 2004

Nuclear weapons: “The threats and dangers we face are as valid as those arising from the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. These also demand collective action and in this Jamaica has been unrelenting in its support of effective measures for curtailing the spread of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction.”

Security: “International security is dangerously at risk. What is clear to us is that violence and the use of force cannot be the answer. We must embrace multilateralism and insist that international relations be guided by the rule of law as the basis for our collective security.”

SALW: “Small countries face particular dangers in maintaining stability and security. I am referring to the increasing production, distribution and proliferation of small arms and light weapons and sophisticated ammunition. Th