Disarmament Index

of high-level statements delivered in the General Debate of the 61st Session of the General Assembly, September 19 - 29, 2006

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 which will be detailed during the First Committee of the General Assembly, starting October 2, 2006.

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 19 - 29, 2006.

Speeches by:
Secretary-General Kofi Annan, and
General Assembly President (61st Session) Ambassador Sheikha Haya Rashed Al Khalifa (Bahrain)

Click on a country below to see relevant excerpts from Conference

United Nations Secretary General
H.E. Mr. Kofi A. Annan, Secretary-General
September 19, 2006

Small arms: "In far too many parts of the world – especially the developing world – people are
still exposed to brutal conflicts, fought with small but deadly weapons."

Disarmament and Non-proliferation: "And people in all parts of the world are threatened – though some are more aware of it than others – by the spread of weapons of mass destruction. It is shameful that last year’s Summit Outcome does not contain even one word about non-proliferation and disarmament – basically because states could not agree which of the two should be given priority. It is high time to end this dispute, and tackle both tasks with the urgency they demand."

Terrrorism: "Moreover, just as some who benefit from globalization may feel threatened by it,
so, many who are statistically safer from conflict do not feel safe.

For that, we have terrorism to thank. It kills or maims relatively few people, compared to other forms of violence. But it spreads fear and insecurity among many. And that in turn drives people to huddle together with those who share their beliefs or their way of life, while shunning those who appear “alien”."

President of the 61st General Assembly
H.E. Sheikha Haya Rashed Al Khalifa
September 19, 2006

Disarmament: "we need to address specific potential causes of tension in our world notably in the field of disarmament and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction."

Multilateralism: "There is no perfect world and the United Nations is a reflection of our world. If we remain committed to multilateralism, the values and principles enshrined in the Charter will strengthen our resolve to overcome the challenges and threats ahead of us and bring about a safer and more prosperous world for all."

Terrorism/Proliferation: "We live in a world afflicted by violent armed conflicts, hunger and disease; a world threatened by international terrorism, organized crime and the proliferation of all types of weapons; a world brought closer together by the forces of globalization, yet divided by ethnic strife, and a growing technological gap; a world where the enjoyment of human rights is still an unrealized dream for millions of people."

Security: "Making our world a more secure place requires the United Nations to take a more proactive role when addressing the many armed conflicts within and amongst states. We need to make further progress in the area of conflict prevention. It is imperative that we have a high level debate that can deliver an actionable outcome on this issue."

Terrorism: "With the adoption of the United Nations Comprehensive Global Counter-terrorism Strategy, we have made a historic step forward. We now need to work towards its effective implementation. Meanwhile, we should redouble our efforts towards reaching consensus on the most needed and long-overdue Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism."

Brazil
H.E. Mr. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President
September 19, 2006

Security: “War will never bring security.
…
If we do not want war to go global, justice must go global.”

Terrorism: “But the Doha Development Agenda, which will decide the future of the world trade
system, is now in crisis.
…
If the Round fails, the fallout will go far beyond trade. The credibility of the WTO system itself will be jeopardized, with negative repercussions in both political and social fields. Scourges such as organized crime, drug trafficking and terrorism will find fertile ground to proliferate.”

The United States of America
H.E. Mr. George W. Bush, President
September 19, 2006

Terrorism: “Last week, America and the world marked the fifth anniversary of the attacks that filled another September morning with death and suffering. On that terrible day, extremists killed nearly 3,000 innocent people, including citizens of dozens of nations represented right here in this chamber. Since then, the enemies of humanity have continued their campaign of murder. Al Qaeda and those inspired by its extremist ideology have attacked more than two dozen nations. And recently a different group of extremists deliberately provoked a terrible conflict in Lebanon. At the start of the 21st century, it is clear that the world is engaged in a great ideological struggle, between extremists who use terror as a weapon to create fear, and moderate people who work for peace. Five years ago, I stood at this podium and called on the community of nations to defend civilization and build a more hopeful future. This is still the great challenge of our time; it is the calling of our generation. This morning, I want to speak about the more hopeful world that is within our reach, a world beyond terror, where ordinary men and women are free to determine their own destiny, where the voices of moderation are empowered, and where the extremists are marginalized by the peaceful majority. This world can be ours if we seek it and if we work together.”

Roots of terrorism: “Some have argued that the democratic changes we're seeing in the Middle East are destabilizing the region. This argument rests on a false assumption, that the Middle East was stable to begin with. The reality is that the stability we thought we saw in the Middle East was a mirage. For decades, millions of men and women in the region have been trapped in oppression and hopelessness. And these conditions left a generation disillusioned, and made this region a breeding ground for extremism.

Imagine what it's like to be a young person living in a country that is not moving toward reform. You're 21 years old, and while your peers in other parts of the world are casting their ballots for the first time, you are powerless to change the course of your government. While your peers in other parts of the world have received educations that prepare them for the opportunities of a global economy, you have been fed propaganda and conspiracy theories that blame others for your country's shortcomings. And everywhere you turn, you hear extremists who tell you that you can escape your misery and regain your dignity through violence and terror and martyrdom. For many across the broader Middle East, this is the dismal choice presented every day.

Every civilized nation, including those in the Muslim world, must support those in the region who are offering a more hopeful alternative. We know that when people have a voice in their future, they are less likely to blow themselves up in suicide attacks. We know that when leaders are accountable to their people, they are more likely to seek national greatness in the achievements of their citizens, rather than in terror and conquest. So we must stand with democratic leaders and moderate reformers across the broader Middle East. We must give them voice to the hopes of decent men and women who want for their children the same things we want for ours. We must seek stability through a free and just Middle East where the extremists are marginalized by millions of citizens in control of their own destinies.

Today, I'd like to speak directly to the people across the broader Middle East: My country desires peace. Extremists in your midst spread propaganda claiming that the West is engaged in a war against Islam. This propaganda is false, and its purpose is to confuse you and justify acts of terror. We respect Islam, but we will protect our people from those who pervert Islam to sow death and destruction. Our goal is to help you build a more tolerant and hopeful society that honors people of all faiths and promote the peace.”

Terrorism and Iraq: “To the people of Iraq: Nearly 12 million of you braved the car bombers and assassins last December to vote in free elections. The world saw you hold up purple ink-stained fingers, and your courage filled us with admiration. You've stood firm in the face of horrendous acts of terror and sectarian violence -- and we will not abandon you in your struggle to build a free nation. America and our coalition partners will continue to stand with the democratic government you elected. We will continue to help you secure the international assistance and investment you need to create jobs and opportunity, working with the United Nations and through the International Compact with Iraq endorsed here in New York yesterday. We will continue to train those of you who stepped forward to fight the enemies of freedom. We will not yield the future of your country to terrorists and extremists. In return, your leaders must rise to the challenges your country is facing, and make difficult choices to bring security and prosperity. Working together, we will help your democracy succeed, so it can become a beacon of hope for millions in the Muslim world.”

Terrorism and Afghanistan: “To the people of Afghanistan: Together, we overthrew the Taliban regime that brought misery into your lives and harbored terrorists who brought death to the citizens of many nations. Since then, we have watched you choose your leaders in free elections and build a democratic government. You can be proud of these achievements. We respect your courage, and your determination to live in peace and freedom. We will continue to stand with you to defend your democratic gains. Today forces from more than 40 countries, including members of the NATO Alliance, are bravely serving side-by-side with you against the extremists who want to bring down the free government you've established. We'll help you defeat these enemies and build a free Afghanistan that will never again oppress you, or be a safe haven for terrorists.”

Iran and nuclear weapons, terrorism: “To the people of Iran: The United States respects you; we your country. We admire your rich history, your vibrant culture, and your many contributions to civilization. You deserve an opportunity to determine your own future, an economy that rewards your intelligence and your talents, and a society that allows you to fulfill your tremendous potential. The greatest obstacle to this future is that your rulers have chosen to deny you liberty and to use your nation's resources to fund terrorism, and fuel extremism, and pursue nuclear weapons. The United Nations has passed a clear resolution requiring that the regime in Tehran meet its international obligations. Iran must abandon its nuclear weapons ambitions. Despite what the regime tells you, we have no objection to Iran's pursuit of a truly peaceful nuclear power program. We're working toward a diplomatic solution to this crisis. And as we do, we look to the day when you can live in freedom -- and America and Iran can be good friends and close partners in the cause of peace.”

Terrorism and Syria: “To the people of Syria: Your land is home to a great people with a proud tradition of learning and commerce. Today your rulers have allowed your country to become a crossroad for terrorism. In your midst, Hamas and Hezbollah are working to destabilize the region, and your government is turning your country into a tool of Iran. This is increasing your country's isolation from the world. Your government must choose a better way forward by ending its support for terror, and living in peace with your neighbors, and opening the way to a better life for you and your families.”

Terrorism in the Middle East: “The world must also stand up for peace in the Holy Land. I'm committed to two democratic states -- Israel and Palestine -- living side-by-side in peace and security. I'm committed to a Palestinian state that has territorial integrity and will live peacefully with the Jewish state of Israel. This is the vision set forth in the road map -- and helping the parties reach this goal is one of the great objectives of my presidency. The Palestinian people have suffered from decades of corruption and violence and the daily humiliation of occupation. Israeli citizens have endured brutal acts of terrorism and constant fear of attack since the birth of their nation. Many brave men and women have made the commitment to peace. Yet extremists in the region are stirring up hatred and trying to prevent these moderate voices from prevailing.

This struggle is unfolding in the Palestinian territories. Earlier this year, the Palestinian people voted in a free election. The leaders of Hamas campaigned on a platform of ending corruption and improving the lives of the Palestinian people, and they prevailed. The world is waiting to see whether the Hamas government will follow through on its promises, or pursue an extremist agenda. And the world has sent a clear message to the leaders of Hamas: Serve the interests of the Palestinian people. Abandon terror, recognize Israel's right to exist, honor agreements, and work for peace.
…
Freedom, by its nature, cannot be imposed -- it must be chosen. From Beirut to Baghdad, people are making the choice for freedom. And the nations gathered in this chamber must make a choice, as well: Will we support the moderates and reformers who are working for change across the Middle East -- or will we yield the future to the terrorists and extremists? America has made its choice: We will stand with the moderates and reformers.”

South Africa
H.E. Mr. Thabo Mbeki, President
September 19, 2006

Terrorism/Unilateralism: “. . . six years into the 21st century dispassionate observers would dare us to achieve our noble and lofty objectives, pointing to the terrorists' acts that welcomed us into the new century. They would emphasise the unilateralism that threatens to negate the democratic advances of the last decades of the 20th century, and draw attention to renewed conflicts and wars that seem to compete with the destructive fury of the conflicts of the last century.”

Finland (on on behalf of the European Union, The Acceding Countries Bulgaria and Romania, the Candidate Countries Turkey, Croatia and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, the Countries of the Stabilisation and Association Process and potential candidates Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia as well as Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova align themselves with this declaration)
H.E. Ms. Tarja Halonen, President
September 19, 2006

Disarmament, multilateralism, proliferation: “We see it important that this session of the General Assembly will mark progress in the areas of disarmament and non-proliferation.

Concrete action is needed on small arms and light weapons at the national, regional and global levels. The European Union will continue to push for a legally-binding treaty on trade in all conventional weapons. Effective multilateralism is crucial in facing the growing threat of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The Security Council has a central role in addressing those threats. In this regard, the EU welcomes the unanimous adoption of resolution 1695 on Democratic People's Republic of Korea. We look forward to its effective implementation and we call strongly upon DPRK to implement fully the requirements of this resolution.

The EU also welcomes the adoption of the Security Council resolution 1696 and calls upon Iran to respond positively and swiftly to the demands of the international community in implementing this resolution, in particular by suspending its enrichment activities in accordance with the resolution. This would pave the way for negotiations on a comprehensive agreement aimed at restoring confidence that Iranian nuclear programme serves exclusively peaceful purposes. We welcome the current exploratory talks aimed to facilitate the opening of the negotiations.”

Security: "An increasingly important element in the promotion of global peace and security is the need to foster tolerance, mutual understanding and respect. In this regard, the EU has already expressed its strong support for the Alliance of Civilizations initiative.”
…
Peace building is an integral part of the wide security concept. The newly established Peacebuilding Commission brings its own and much-needed contribution to the UN work for peace and security. The European Union will work actively to ensure that this new body will have a strong and dynamic role in the UN system. Gender aspect is important in this context. We also welcome the establishment of the Central Emergency Response Fund to enhance the capability of the international community to respond to urgent humanitarian needs.”

Terrorism: “Contrary to our shared ideals, the realities of war and violence have not become history. Conflicts and terrorism continue to destroy the social and economic progress that we are all striving for."
...
"The events of the past year show that terrorism continues to threaten international peace and security. This threat can be effectively addressed through broadly-based cooperation in the framework of the United Nations. The European Union welcomes the agreement on a global counter terrorism strategy as an important instrument and expression of international solidarity in the fight against terrorism. The EU urges UN Member States to build on this achievement and to intensify their efforts to reach a speedy consensus on the UN Comprehensive Anti-Terrorism Convention. We underline the importance of prevention, and conducting the fight against terrorism in accordance with human rights, refugee law and international humanitarian law."

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan
H.E. General Pervez Musharraf, President
September 19, 2006

Multilateralism/Terrorism/Proliferation: “Multilateral cooperation is the key to addressing the existing and emerging challenges of the 21 " Century — political disputes, terrorism, proliferation, poverty, hunger, disease, economic disparities, migration, unemployment, environmental degradation and natural disasters. We appreciate the Secretary General's initiatives to equip t he United Nations to respond to these challenges. But we are vet a distance from the vision endorsed at the 2005 UN Summit.”

Nuclear/Arms: “A stable security environment is also important for peace in our region. Pakistan has proposed the creation of a Strategic Restraint Regime in South Asia, encompassing minimum nuclear deterrence and a balance of conventional forces. We do not want to enter into an arms race. But we will do whatever is necessary to preserve the credibility of our minimum defensive deterrence level.”

Nuclear Energy: “Pakistan has a legitimate requirement for nuclear power generation to meet the energy needs of our expanding economy. As a responsible nuclear State, we will continue to seek nuclear technology for power generation under IAEA safeguards. We cannot accept discrimination in the nuclear field.”

Security/Terrorism: “Afghanistan confronts complex security, political and economic challenges including a resurgent Taliban who also threaten Pakistan's efforts against extremism and terrorism. The common challenge imposes a joint responsibility on Pakistan, Afghanistan and the coalition forces.”

Terrorism: “The unfortunate history of our region has placed Pakistan in the frontline of the global campaign against terrorism. We cooperate daily with many countries including the United States and the United Kingdom. Our cooperation has pre-empted several terrorist plots, such as the one uncovered recently to blow up airliners flying London. Over the past five years, Al-Qaeda has been significantly degraded as an organization."

Terrorism: “While we confront terrorism, our strategy must seek to eliminate this phenomenon comprehensively. We cannot do so unless we understand and address the root causes of terrorism today. How are terrorists able to find willing recruits even among educated youth in advanced and democratic societies? The reasons are clear."

Terrorism: “Across the Muslim world, old conflicts and new campaigns of military intervention have spawned a deep sense of desperation and injustice. Each new battleground involving an Islamic state has served as a new breeding ground for extremists and terrorists. Indiscriminate bombings, civilian casualties, torture, human rights abuses, racial slurs and discrimination only add to the challenge of defeating terrorism."

Terrorism: “In my view a two pronged strategy, which I call "Enlightened Moderation", is required to address the situation. This strategy envisages that, apart from combating terrorism frontally, the international community must undertake resolute efforts to resolve the conflicts afflicting the Islamic world. Unless we end foreign occupation and suppression of Muslim peoples, terrorism and extremism will continue to find recruits among alienated Muslims in various parts of the world."

Security/Terrorism: “The greatest challenge to global security; to the campaign against terrorism; to the promotion of harmony among civilization; to the credibility of the United Nations, is the cauldron of conflict that is the Middle East. This was exemplified by the latest Israeli aggression against Lebanon. We hope that the resolution painstakingly brokered in the Security Council will lead to rapid and complete Israeli withdrawal and restoration of Lebanon's sovereignty over its entire territory.”

Terrorism: “It is time to end Israel's conflicts with all its neighbours. It is time, first and foremost, to en d the tragedy of Palestine. There is no doubt in our mind that this is the core of the challenge, not only to overcome the Iraq and Afghanistan problems, but also to deal with the menace of terrorism and extremism.”

Nuclear: “The confrontation over Iran's nuclear programme threatens further instability in this already inflamed region. We are encouraged by the Iran and 5-1 negotiations and believe that this issue can be resolved peacefully in a manner that accommodates the legitimate rights and interests of all parties. Resort to coercion Änd, worse, the use of force, could lead to grave consequences, regional and global.”

France
Mr Jacques Chirac, President
September 19, 2006

Security: “Because the conflict in the Middle East is a threat to global peace and security, the world has no option but to be the guarantor of peace. Let us tread off the beaten track of habit. Let us define a global strategy the key to which is an Israeli-Palestinian settlement.”

Security: “I also propose that the conference pave the way for a new future in the Middle East, through a regional framework for collective security, and economic integration and dialogue among cultures.”

Terrorism/Proliferation: “To build peace means fighting terrorism. Means preventing proliferation. Means shouldering the ‘responsibility to protect’ that we enshrined here last year.”

Proliferation: “International legality must prevail aver the threats of proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. In the crisis with Iran, confidence has been impaired by the existence of illegal programmes. We have extended to that major country ambitious offers of cooperation, provided it restores confidence by suspending its contentious activities. Dialogue must prevail.”

Security: “Given the seriousness of what is at stake, the international community must stand firm and united. We do not aim to call regimes into question. We aim to ensure security in accordance with international law and with due regard for the sovereignty of all countries.”

Poland
H.E. Mr. Lech Kaczyński, President
September 19, 2006

Energy security: “At this point I would like to draw your attention to the question of energy security - increasingly important for many regions of the world. This security should be based on the diversification of supply sources and on building such energy connections that could not be used as a means of political pressure.”

Security: “Globalization reveals the scale of problems that we previously did not fully realize. I am speaking about ever deepening inequalities and exclusion from civilisation progress, vast areas of poverty and instability that, on the one hand, cause moral resistance, and, on the other, increase the threat to peace and security.”

“Poland supports Israel's right to security. At the same time Poland supports the aspirations of the Palesti nian nation to build an independent state. We have been involved in the stabilization of the region for many years. We actively participate in the UNIFIL mission in Lebanon. A month ago, at the request of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, we declared that we would increase our military contingent.”

Terrorism: “I believe that where tensions and social conflicts are resolved through dialogue, where respect is promoted for different cultures and religions, where economic inequalities between societies and states are prevented - terrorism will not find soil to grow. In the long run global solidarity is the most effective weapon against those who would like to see the world as a scene of unending fight.”

Congo
H.E. Mr. Denis Sassou Nguesso, President
September 19, 2006

Available in French only.

Mexico
H.E. Mr. Vicente Fox, President
September 19, 2006

Terrorism: " We recently honored the fifth anniversary of terrorist acts that put a lot of families of this country and others, into mourning and grief. Those who have suffered the violence and cruelty caused by terrorism, please accept our respect and expression of solidarity. Mexico firmly condemns this most terrible threat as well as any act of aggression or violence. We repudiate any act against peace and any action that does not conform with the principles and purposes of our Organization.
Throughout six decades, the peoples of the United Nations have expressed their belief that the use of force is not a solution; on the contrary, it usually aggravates conflicts. Together, we have learned that peace and development arise from mutual respect and from the cooperation that emerges and grows from such respect.”

Disarmament: “The peoples of the United Nations are well aware of the fact that the breaches of peace and security and our setbacks in our search for greater development are a consequence of an insufficient international dialogue and cooperation. We are also aware that the root-cause of much of the setbacks --such as those record in the field of disarmament as well as those that take the form of aggression against other people or against the environment— is the lack of, or the lost of respect among nations.

These are times of great challenges. Our peoples today face challenges such as those posed by longstanding international conflicts that persist in tandem with the emergence of new threats to international peace and security.”

Liberia
H.E. Ms. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President
September 19, 2006

Security: “In the new Millennium, the United Nations should not operate on the structures designed sixty-one years ago. We must therefore review the inequitable representation of the world’s people as reflected by the present structure of the Security Council. It is in this regard that a reform of the United Nations in urgent, especially the decision making process in the Security Council which appear to be undemocratic and hegemonic.”

Security: “Throughout its history, and excluding the period of our civil conflicts, Liberia has always been in the vanguard of promoting good neighborliness, peace, security, and stability in our sub-region, our continent and our one world. We therefore actively support the founding of the Organization of African Unity (now African Union), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Mano River Union, among others, because without peace, security, and stability, there is very little that humankind can achieve.”

Security: “We are particularly concerned about conflicts in other parts of the world. Of notable concern is the protracted crisis in the Middle East, which continues to create a state of restlessness and threatens world peace and security.”

Security: “The United Nations’ obligation to protect the helpless and innocent must remain paramount in this regard. My government therefore calls on this General Assembly and the Security Council to exercise the Chapter Seven Authority to restore peace, security, and stability to Darfur.”

Terrorism: “We also resolve, as all civilized nations have, to join the global effort to fight terrorism anywhere in the world recognizing that it is today the most single challenge in world peace and collective freedom.”

Arms: “The Government of Liberia welcomes the partial lifting of the arms embargo and the ban on timber as imposed by UN Security Council Resolution 1521 (2003).”

Multilateralism: “We have made important beginnings and we remain committed and encouraged by the bilateral support provided by our bilateral and multilateral international partners.”

Jordan
H.M. King Abdullah II Bin Al Hussein
September 19, 2006

Multilateralism/security: " In 2002, the 22 Arab states - agreeing unanimously led the way with a break th rough peace proposal. Our vision and commitment is a viable, independent Palestinian state, living side-by-side with a pure Israel . Under the Arab Peace Initiative, Israel's security would be guaranteed, and the occupation of Palestine would end, in accord with U.N. resolutions. Events show clearly that there can be no unilateral solution to the conflict. There must be a genuine partnership among all parties, in th e context of international legality and justice. Such a global pa rt nership for peace is directly connected to the global partnership for development. Across the world, nations at peace are moving forward with economic growth and development: investing in education, building communities, helping to shape the future of the globe. But no nation succeeds in isolation. All nations , all people- especially our youth-must be able to share in a promising future.”

Ghana
H.E. Mr. John Agyekum Kufuor, President
September 19, 2006

Security: “A year ago, we met at this historic venue to adopt the 2005 World Summit Outcome Document in which we acknowledged that peace and security, and development and human rights were the pillars of the United Nations system, and the foundations for our collective well-being.”

Terrorism/Security: “But, Madam President, our collective objective within this organization to alleviate the economic plight of the majority of mankind may continue to elude us unless the pursuit of international peace and security is effectively and satisfactorily addressed. Ghana, therefore, views with grave concern the continuing spread and persistence of terrorist activities. The international community must rally to contain and effectively eradicate this menace to mankind. In this regard, the Secretary-General's proposal for a global counter-terrorism strategy is welcome. Indeed, it is the view of Ghana that there must be a quick conclusion of the deliberations on the proposed Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.”

Nuclear/Weapons/Energy/Security/Nonproliferation: “Yet another scourge to the security of the world is the snail-paced talks on the elimination of nuclear weapons, and the added threat of the proliferation of these weapons. Ghana shares the concerns of the majority of member states that this body must continue with, and intensify its pressure for the total elimination of these weapons. For as lung as 27,000 nuclear weapons continue to exist, as they do now, our world will remain vulnerable to the threat of mass destruction.

“Madam President, we make this appeal not unaware of the positive uses of nuclear energy. But, for as long as those nations which already possess these weapons and those on the verge of breaking into the mastery of the technology do not show transparency with their know-how, the world will feel insecure. So Ghana appeals to such nations to show candour and transparency in their co-operation with the International Atomic Energy Commission by their compliance with the terms of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.”

Arms: “Madam President, the spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) is yet another scourge, especially for Africa. This Organization's collective efforts to rein in this menace since 2001 have indeed yielded significant results. However, we are still far from achieving the desired target. This is borne out by the outcome of the recent Review Conference of the UN Programme of Action. Ghana therefore welcomes the current momentum within the international community to move closer to the ultimate goal of drastically removing the menace.”

Switzerland
H.E. Mr. Moritz Leuenberger, President
September 19, 2006

Terrorism: “We have no other choice than to take a stand against a clash of cultures through a dialogue of cultures and religions. Humiliation and a lack of respect between cultures also serve as breeding grounds for terrorism. In no way do we want to wipe away the differences between civilisations. The world thrives on these differences and its diversity is what makes it so worthwhile and appealing. Equally important though is that we recognise the dignity of each culture and what we have in common. As a global forum, the UN makes a vital contribution in that respect. I look forward to the report of the High Level Group on the Alliance of Civilisations. Switzerland will be glad to actively participate in its implementation.”

Nuclear Weapons/Multilateralism: “Over the past year, we have celebrated the 50th anniversary of the death of Albert Einstein, the originator of the Theory of Relativity. He recommended the construction of the atomic bomb to President Roosevelt, yet always described himself a 'militant pacifist'. He shared his qualms of conscience with Sigmund Freud. In the course of their correspondence entitled "Why War?", they came to the conclusion that in order to achieve the peaceful coexistence of mankind on this planet, the world needed an organisation uniting all nations with which people could identify. The empathy towards that organisation could provide it with the authority to counter war. It was with this conviction that many Swiss citizens voted in favour of Switzerland's accession to the UN five years ago.”

Multilateralism/Terrorism: “Only through a common alliance of all nations do we have this opportunity. No country is capable of solving today's global challenges alone. War, terrorism, drug trafficking, the offshoring of jobs or environmental and climate-related disasters are all global threats. They know no borders, not even those of powerful nations. No State is the master of its own fate, not even a strong State. The strongest is not most powerful alone. Only through an inclusive network with universally applicable norms can might be replaced by justice. The UN has been the world's most successful effort to achieve this.”

Terrorism: “The international community hast to fight terrorism. However, in selecting the means to achieve that aim, namely the rule of law, it must not renounce those principles. Torture is the most radical form of its negation and renders it bereft of its legitimacy. And the Geneva Conventions are no hindrance to fighting terrorism, in fact quite the contrary. If the appropriate instruments are lacking, then new ones can be created such as the conventions on terrorism. But this struggle can only be credible if human rights are respected in its pursuit.”

Terrorism: “The cause of every military conflict and every terrorist attack can ultimately also be traced back to economic inequalities. They are the source of all tensions on our earth. That is why we must do our utmost to fight poverty, economic despair and political apathy. Religious conflicts too have economic inequalities at their root. The main divide and at the same time the main cause of all agitations is that between north and south. If we want religious tolerance, we must find a way of bringing about economic justice. The world defined its aims for poverty reduction until 2015 in the Millennium Development Goals. We must make sure that we enable the UN and ourselves to keep that promise.”

Nuclear: “The conflict in the Middle East, the stabilisation of Iraq and the resolution of the (atomic) crisis with Iran can be addressed through dialogue. All parties should avoid inflaming these conflicts. Just as central as dialogue is respect for the basic principles of the UN Charter. As such, no State may deny the right of another to exist. Aspirations to the right of self-determination must not be disappointed if they are based on a valid legal order.”

Honduras
H.E. Mr. José Manuel Zelaya Rosales, President
September 19, 2006

Available in Spanish only.

Cyprus
H.E. Mr. Tassos Papadopoulos, President
September 19, 2006

Terrorism, disarmament, non-proliferation, multilateralism: “Then there are those aspects of reform that continue to elude us, such as Security Council reform and a comprehensive convention against terrorism; aspects of it that remain in progress such as management reform, mandate review and system-wide coherence; and challenges that are increasingly more difficult to tackle, such as disarmament and non-proliferation. In this regard I would like to commend you, Madam President, for choosing the realisation of the development goals as the theme of your Presidency in recognition of their enduring importance. My Government considers that concerted, innovative multilateral action to eradicate the scourges deriving from poverty and underdevelopment can yield substantial results.”

Multilateralism: ”The establishment of the Peace-Building Commission and the Human Rights Council, alongside other impo rtant achievements. constitutes an impo rtant building block towards a consolidated international system based on effective multilateralism.”

“Cyprus had from the very first moment of the outbreak of violence suppo rted the calls for an immediate ceasefire and joined in the effort to provide assistance both to the Lebanese people and to evacuees. Unfortunately, it took almost a month for the Security Council to discharge its responsibilities effectively towards the peoples of the region, causing disappointment and frustration. In our search for UN-centered effective multilateralism , the lessons learned from this crisis should be a strong guiding force. We hope that the expanded UNIFIL, to whose deployment, operations and support Cyprus has unde rtaken to contribute, will be effective in preventing future eruptions of violence.”

Costa Rica
H.E. Mr. Óscar Arias Sánchez, President
September 19, 2006

Disarmament: “For quite some time I have argued that the struggle for human development is connected to the struggle for disarmament and demilitarization. Certainly it is not a badge of honor for our species that global military spending has exceeded one trillion dollars in 2005, the same statistic that we had in real terms at the end of the Cold War and eight times the annual investment necessary to achieve in a decade all the Millenium Development Goals in every country on Earth. The investment that the most industrialized nations make in their militaries—and they are responsible for 83% of global military spending—is ten times the resources that they dedicate to official development assistance. For the United States, the richest country on the planet, the amount they spend on their military is at very least 25 times as much as they give in aid. What is this but an eloquent demonstration of twisted priorities and the most profound irrationality?

“Because, at the end of the day, rationality counts. Since the tragic events of the 11 th of September 2001, a little more than 200 billion dollars have been added to global military spending. There is not a single indicator that suggests that this colossal increase is making the world more secure and human rights more widely enjoyed. On the contrary, we feel more and more vulnerable and fragile. Maybe it is time to think of other ways to deploy those resources. Maybe it is time to realize that with much less than that sum we could guarantee access to potable water and primary education for every person in the world, and maybe there would be enough left over, as Gabriel Garcia Marquez once suggested, para perfumer de sandalo en un día de otoño las cataratas del Niagara—roughly translated, to perfume the waters of Niagara Falls on one autumn day. Maybe it is time to understand that all this is what would really make us happier and more secure.”

Arms: “With optimism and vehemence I propose to this Assembly that we take, today, three courses of action that can have powerful effects on the wellbeing of all people. First, we must denounce military spending, the arms race and the arms trade as offensive to the human condition.”

Arms/Weapons: “Every arm is a visible sign of the delay in meeting the needs of the poor. I am not the only one to say so. It was said, in memorable fashion, by a man of arms, President Eisenhower, nearly half a century ago: "Every gun that is made, every warship launched, every rocket fired signifies, in the final sense, a theft from those who hunger and are not fed, those who are cold and are not clothed. This world in arms is not spending money alone. It is spending the sweat of its laborers, the genius of its scientists, the hopes of its children."

“But if it is sad that the richest nations, through military spending, are denying development opportunities to the most poor, it is worse still that the poor are complicit in destroying their own future. In effect, it is tragic that the governments of some of the most underdeveloped countries continue to hoard tanks, troops, warplanes and missiles to supposedly protect a population gripped with hunger and ignorance.

“My region of the world has not escaped that phenomenon. In 2005, the countries of Latin America spent almost 24 billion dollars on weapons and troops, an amount that has risen 25% in real terms over the last decade and that has risen substantially in the last year. Latin America has begun a new arms race, even though it has never been more democratic and there have been very few military conflicts between countries in the last century. But for avoiding this impulse, I believe Costa Ricans have reason to be proud. Since 1948, due to the vision of the wise ex-President José Figueres, Costa Rica abolished its army and declared peace on the world.

“As was the case twenty years ago in my first message to this General Assembly, today I can say to you with satisfaction that I come from a country without weapons, that our children have seen neither a tank nor attack helicopter, neither warship nor cannon. I can say to you that in my country, fathers and grandfathers explain to the youth the curious architecture of our schools, in terms that attest to the fact that long ago those schools were military barracks. I can say to you that in my homeland, none of our citizens, man or woman, knows oppression, and that there is not a single Costa Rican that lives in exile. I can say to you today that mine is a nation of liberty.

“Costa Rican children always have marched to school with books under their arms and never with rifles on their shoulders. If the old refrain is true, "When a school opens, a jail closes," then Costa Rica also believes that "when a barrack closes, a school opens." Each time a soldier sheds his military fatigues, it allows for many children to put on the uniforms of their schools.

“This is a road that neither my country nor I are willing to abandon. And not only that: it is a road that we wish all humanity to follow. And so, today I would like to propose an idea. I propose to you that we all give life to the Costa Rica Consensus, through which we create mechanisms to forgive debt and give international financial support to developing nations that invest more and more in education, health and housing, and less and less in soldiers and weapons. It is time that the international financial community reward not only those whose spending is orderly, as it has done till now, but also those whose spending is ethical. I propose to you as well, that we approve as soon as possible an Arms Trade Treaty that prohibits countries from transferring weapons to states, groups or individuals if there is reason to believe that these arms will be used to violate human rights or international law, or if there are clear indications that they will be used to harm sustainable development.

“I hope that the United Nations, in these sessions of its General Assembly, approves the formation of a governmental group of experts that will write the text of a binding treaty on the subject of international arms transfers.

“If it is time to close the doors on the arms trade and on its infinite wake of death, it is time to open the door on the other form of commerce, legitimate and licit, on which the prosperity of the peoples of the world depends.”

Multilateralism: “In effect, the third big challenge that I want to mention today is the challenge of strengthening global governance and reforming its institutions. This task begins with the defense of multilateralism, with the strict adherence of all countries to international law and the fundamental principles of the UN Charter, the most elemental safeguard against anarchy in the world. Costa Rica, as it lacks an army, is perhaps the country that most needs an effective international system to guarantee its security. As such, it is willing to put into the service of this cause all the weight of its example as a disarmed country. But there is a lot left to be done.

“It is essential that the most powerful nations on Earth understand that the supervision of international law and the United Nations is fundamental for their own security, that the mere existence of this forum is one of the great achievements of our species, that the UN is a victory of hope over fear, of tolerance over fanaticism, of reason over force.”

Arms/Multilateralism: “If today we do not confront the rise in military spending and the arms trade; if we do not stimulate the economies of the poorest countries who invest their resources in life and not in death; if we do not conquer the fears and the hypocrisy that impede truly free trade in the world; if we do not strengthen the institutions and the international norms that protect us against global anarchy; if we do not do all this, we condemn ourselves to walk on the edge of a cliff, to live on the wheel of eternal return, descending like Sisyphus after every peak reached.”

Latvia
H.E. Mrs. Vaira Vike-Freiberga, President
September 20, 2006

Security/terrorism: “We have had the great misfortune to see terrorism continue as a threat to international peace and security. I welcome therefore the recent agreement on a Global Counter Terrorism Strategy and urge the UN's member States to intensify their efforts to reach a consensus on a Comprehensive Anti-Terrorism Convention.”

Nonproliferation/disarmament/weapons of mass destructions/security: “It is regrettable that we have failed to make any substantial progress over the last year in the area of disarmament and the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. This is a fundamental issue for global peace and security and I encourage all UN member States to demonstrate their willingness to move forward at a faster pace.”

Security: “The UN also needs to provide a prompt and effective response when armed conflicts arise. We must strive to make UN peacekeeping a more effective and accepted instrument of collective security.”

“Along with the promotion of peace and security and the alleviation of poverty, the protection of human rights is one of the main missions of the United Nations. The recent creation of the Human Rights Council will hopefully enable the UN to respond more promptly and effectively in situations where human rights come under threat.”

“The Security Council has a central role to play in maintaining international peace and security. If it is to truly function as an effective organ, then it must attain both a stronger capacity and a greater willingness to act in the face of international crises and tensions and find ways of responding more rapidly at the outbreak of armed conflicts.”

Terrorism: “The world needs a strong UN and we as leaders need to build bridges of understanding, if we are to make the UN as strong as it needs to be. We need to keep alive the main goal of the founders of the United Nations, who were determined "to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war". We owe it to our children who will inherit this planet, to save them also from the scourge of terrorism, of hunger and of disease.”

El Salvador
H.E. Mr. Elías Antonio Saca González, President
September 19, 2006

Available in Spanish only.

Suriname
H.E. Mr. Runaldo Ronald Venetiaan, President
September 19, 2006

Weapons: “In this connection the Government of Suriname will host an Anti- Narcotics Conference in October 2006. The main purpose of this Conference is to enhance coordination and collaboration among the participating countries aimed at combating trafficking in narcotic drugs, dismantling drug related criminal organizations and combating the illicit trade in small and light weapons given the increased levels of crime it generates.”

Security/Multilateralism: “Given the less than satisfactory international development and security situations, we, the member states of the United Nations, should be more than willing, to act in conformity with the United Nations Charter and to employ the international machinery for the promotion of the economic and social advancement of all peoples; to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security, and to practice increased tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbours.”

Terrorism: “Recently the General Assembly adopted the United Nations global counter terrorism strategy. Certainly this is a step forward in arriving at an effective international response against terrorism, in conformity with international law, international human rights and international humanitarian law.

“My delegation notes with satisfaction that this strategy includes the promotion of dialogue, tolerance and understanding among civilizations.

“Of equal importance is the recognition that capacity building in all states is a core element of the global counter terrorism effort. In this regard we anticipate that a genuine partnership be established to implement this strategy.”

Bolivia
H.E. Mr. Evo Morales Aima, President
September 19, 2006

Statement is not available.

Iran (The Islamic Republic of)
H.E. Mr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, President
September 19, 2006

Nuclear/Weapons/Proliferation: “Some powers proudly announce their production of second and third generations of nuclear weapons. What do they need these weapons for? Is the development and stockpiling of these deadly weapons designed to promote peace and democracy? Or, are these weapons, in fact, instruments of coercion and threat against other peoples and governments? How long should the people of the world live with the nightmare of nuclear, biological and chemical weapons? What bounds the powers producing and possessing these weapons? How can they be held accountable before the international community? And, are the inhabitants of these countries content with the waste of their wealth and resources for the production of such destructive arsenals? Is it not possible to rely on justice, ethics and wisdom instead of these instruments of death? Aren't wisdom and justice more compatible with peace and tranquility than nuclear, chemical and biological weapons? If wisdom, ethics and justice prevail, then oppression and aggression will be uprooted, threats will wither away and no reason will remain for conflict. This is a solid proposition because most global conflicts emanate from injustice, and from the powerful, not being contented with their own rights, striving to devour the rights of others.

“People across the globe embrace justice and are willing to sacrifice for its sake.

“Would it not be easier for global powers to ensure their longevity and win hearts and minds through the championing of real promotion of justice, compassion and peace, than through continuing the proliferation of nuclear and chemical weapons and the threat of their use?

“The experience of the threat and the use of nuclear weapons is before us. Has it achieved anything for the perpetrators other than exacerbation of tension, hatred and animosity among nations?”

Nuclear Energy: “The Islamic Republic of Iran is a member of the IAEA and is committed to the NPT. All our nuclear activities are transparent, peaceful and under the watchful eyes of IAEA inspectors. Why then are there objections to our legally recognized rights? Which governments object to these rights? Governments that themselves benefit from nuclear energy and the fuel cycle. Some of them have abused nuclear technology for non-peaceful ends including the production of nuclear bombs, and some even have a bleak record of using them against humanity.”

Nuclear Weapons: “Threats with nuclear weapons and other instruments of war by some powers have taken the place of respect for the rights of nations and the maintenance and promotion of peace and tranquility;”

Terrorism: “It seems that intensification of hostilities and terrorism serves as a pretext for the continued presence of foreign forces in Iraq.”

Security: “Who can ensure Iraq's security? Insecurity in Iraq affects the entire region. Can the Security Council play a role in restoring peace and security in Iraq, while the occupiers are themselves permanent members of the Council? Can the Security Council adopt a fair decision in this regard?”

Security/Weapons: “Some seek to rule the world relying on weapons and threats, while others live in perpetual insecurity and danger. “

Security: “Occupation of countries, including Iraq, has continued for the last three years. Not a day goes by without hundreds of people getting killed in cold blood. The occupiers are incapable of establishing security in Iraq. Despite the establishment of the lawful Government and National Assembly of Iraq, there are covert and overt efforts to heighten insecurity, magnify and aggravate differences within Iraqi society, and instigate civil strife.

“There is no indication that the occupiers have the necessary political will to eliminate the sources of instability. Numerous terrorists were apprehended by the Government of Iraq, only to be let loose under various pretexts by the occupiers.”

Security: “The pretexts for the creation of the regime occupying Al-Qods Al-Sharif are so weak that its proponents want to silence any voice trying to merely speak about them, as they are concerned that shedding light on the facts would undermine the raison d'être of this regime, as it has. The tragedy does not end with the establishment of a regime in the territory of others. Regrettably, from its inception, that regime has been a constant source of threat and insecurity in the Middle East region, waging war and spilling blood and impeding the progress of regional countries, and has also been used by some powers as an instrument of division, coercion, and pressure on the people of the region. Reference to these historical realities may cause some disquiet among supporters of this regime. But these are sheer facts and not myth. History has
unfolded before our eyes.”

Security: “Some permanent members of the Security Council, even when they are themselves parties to international disputes, conveniently threaten others with the Security Council and declare, even before any decision by the Council, the condemnation of their opponents by the Council. The question is: what can justify such exploitation of the Security Council, and doesn't it erode the credibility and effectiveness of the Council? Can such behavior contribute to the ability of the Council to maintain security?”

Security: “Apparently the Security Council can only be used to ensure the security and the rights of some big powers. But when the oppressed are decimated under bombardment, the Security Council must remain aloof and not even call for a ceasefire. Is this not a tragedy of historic proportions for the Security Council, which is charged with maintaining the security of countries?”

Security/Multilateralism: “Regrettably, the persistence of some hegemonic powers in imposing their exclusionist policies on international decision making mechanisms, including the Security Council, has resulted in a growing mistrust in global public opinion, undermining the credibility and effectiveness of this most universal system of collective security.”

Security: “Justice and protection of human dignity are the two pillars in maintaining sustainable peace, security and tranquility in the world.”

Security: “All nations and states are entitled to peace, progress and security.”

Paraguay
H.E. Mr. Nicanor Duarte Frutos, President
September 19, 2006

Available in Spanish only.

Sudan
H.E. Mr. Omer Hassan Al-Bashir, President
September 19, 2006

Available in Arabic only.

Norway
H.E. Mr. Jens Stoltenberg, Prime Minister
September 19, 2006

Terrorism: "The UN is now more the centre of international affairs than it has been for many years. We see the Secretary-General and his staff driving diplomacy. They are on the ground, moving peace efforts in the Middle East. They are coordinating and sustaining peace operations in Lebanon. The UN is drawing up mandates and getting ready for new, urgent assignments, such as Darfur. The UN is assisting countries coming out of conflict, such as Burundi and Sierra Leone. Giving legitimacy and protection under international law to soldiers and civilians in Afghanistan. And launching a Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.”

Kiribati
H.E. Ms. Teima Onorio, Vice-President
September 19, 2006

Security/terrorism/proliferation/weapons of mass destruction/small arms/light weapons: “Peace and security in this world of ours remains elusive with the on-going conflicts and the threat of new conflicts around the world. Terrorism continues to plague us despite the best of concerted and collective efforts. Still more needs to be done to remove the threat posed by the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. And while some progress has been made towards addressing the threat posed by the continuing illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, further work is needed to eliminate this threat.”

Multilateralism: “We note the progress that has been made with regard to reforming the United Nations. Understandably, we would have liked to see greater progress having been made by now but we fully recognize the need for more discussions on the various issues.
And that is multilateralism in practice. The debate on unilateralism versus multilateralism in world affairs continues unabated. We see multilateralism in full play in the debate in reforming the UN. We consider this a reflection of the healthy interest each member country has in the organization. Indeed, in this day and age multilateralism would seem the more appropriate approach than unilateralism.”

Security: “Consisting of low-lying coral atolls, Kiribati is particularly vulnerable to the impact of global warming and sea level rise. For countries such as Kiribati global warming and sea level rise are critical security issues.”

“…those member states that are major contributors to UN programmes, especially towards the maintenance of global peace and security should be accorded permanent membership of the Security Council.”

“The continuing desire by many to join this organization attests to the value and continued relevance of the United Nations. I note, therefore, with much disappointment and regret that the desire of the 23 million people of Taiwan to join this organization of ours continues to be rejected. This is despite Taiwan's demonstrated ability, willingness and commitment to contribute to international collaborative efforts in the pursuit of global peace and security.”

Afghanistan
H.E. Mr. Hâmid KARZAI, President
September 20, 2006

Terrorism: "We have seen terrorism rebounding as terrorists have infiltrated our borders to step up their murderous campaign against our people. Terrorism sees, in the prosperity of the Afgan people, its ultimate defeat."

"…terrorists are preventing children from access to vaccination and healthcare. Terrorists are prepared to cross any boundaries, and commit horrific acts of violence to try to derail Afghanistan from its path to success ; they want the international community to fail in its collective endeavour to help Afghanistan to rebuild.
…
Clearly, unless we confront them more decisively, terrorists will continue to take lives and to inflict greater damage. To be sure, madam President, terrorism does not emanate from within Afghanistan ; Afghanistan is its worst victim ! Military action in Afghanistan alone, therefore, will not deliver our shared goal of eliminating terrorism. We must look beyond Afghanistan to the sources of terrorism. We must destroy terrorist sanctuaries beyond Afghanistan, dismantle the elaborate networks in the region that recruit, indoctrinate, train, finance, arm and deploy terrorists. We must ensure that political currents and entities in the region are not allowed to use extremism as an instrument of policy.

Madam President, fighting terrorism is also tied to our fighting against narcotics. The menace of narcotics feeds terrorism and threatens the foundation of legitimate economic development in Afghanistan.
…
Madam President, in the context of the United Nations role in enhancing global security, we endorse recommendations of the Secretary General for a comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy, and welcome the recent adoption of the strategy by the General Assembly. We also express our support to the proposal for convening a high-level conference on international terrorism, with a view to concluding the draft conprehensive convention on international terrorism at the earliest possible opportunity.
…
We will honour the sacrifices [that the men and women in uniform, from around forty countries in the world, have made in the fight against terrorism in Afghanistan] by remaining true to our vision of building a secure, democratic and prosperous Afghanistan that will contribute to the progress of our region and security of the world at large."

Panama
H.E. Mr. Martín Torrijos, President
September 20, 2006

Available in Spanish only.

Chile
H.E. Mrs. Michelle Bachelet Jeria, President
September 20, 2006

Multilateralism: “We wish to reaffirm our commitment to international law and institutions. Only through them shall we be able to build this fairer and more integrated wold of which we dream, where large and small coexist in peace and harmony.”

Disarmament/Multilateralism/Security: “The most serious failure of the 2005 Summit was its silence on the multilateral disarmament agenda. Chile bases its multilateral foreign policy on the principle that collective security is indivisible. We all have a share of responsibility to preserve peace and international security that cannot be delegated. For this reason, Chile has joined in efforts to revitalize the disarmamament agenda and move towards prohibition of the use of fissile material for military purposes.”

Security: “The security of States is linked to the security of the human beings making up those States, because it allows the exercise of freedom. United Nations should develop the concept of human security.”

Terrorism: “Terrorism negates these freedoms and runs counter to the values that we share. Accordingly, we support the advance of United Nations reform in the area of counter-terrorism. But terrorism must be combated in democracy. Whenever we restrict constitutional guarantees and yield to the temptation to employ illegal methods to fight terrorism, we are handing a victory to its proponents, because only then do they succeed in threatening the spirit of our democracies.”

Sri Lanka
H. E. Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa, President
September 20, 2006

Security: “The Preamble of the UN Charter requires that we "unite our strength to maintain international peace and security".

Let us all, members of the United Nations, focus sharply on this commitment. Let us dedicate ourselves to its realization. And let us mobilise our collective energies towards the achievement of peace and security world wide.”

Terrorism: “Madam President, however, Sri Lanka's dream is threatened by the terrible affliction which impedes development, undermines democracy and challenges fundamental freedoms. I refer to the bane of terrorism which confronts my country and many other countries of the world. I wish to reaffirm my government's firm commitment to supporting all global efforts to combat terrorism whenever and wherever it raises its ugly head.

“Terrorism has become closely intertwined with organized crime. It is now directly linked with people smuggling, the trade in illicit drugs, the illegal trade in small arms and money laundering. Terrorism is a major impediment to development and poses a terrible challenge to civilized society. We support all measures undertaken in the UN to meet this challenge. We have ratified all UN Conventions in this regard.

“In our capacity as Chair of the Ad-hoc Committee on Measures to Eliminate International Terrorism, we shall spare no effort to realize the international legal framework
to facilitate our common struggle against terrorism. It is our fervent hope that the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism will soon become a reality.”

Arms: “The illicit trade and trafficking of small arms and light weapons, has contributed to the escalation of many local conflicts, due to the easy availability of arms for non-State actors. Sri Lanka is concerned that despite the commitment of the international community to wipe out this menace, the impact at ground level throughout the world, is limited. We hope that the UN Plan of Action on this matter will be fully implemented, and its scope further expanded in the future.”

Terrorism: “With regard to terrorism, I speak with personal experience in my own country. Exploiting minority