Reaching Critical Will

Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)

Conference on Disarmament

General Assembly First Committee

UN Disarmament Commission

Special Session on Disarmament

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.)

PeaceWomen.org has compiled a Gender Index of all references to gender, women, and girls made in the General Assembly statements.

These statements are to be delivered
September 19 - 29, 2006.

Click on a topic below to see relevant excerpts from the General Debate.

Disarmament

Non-proliferation

Security

Multilateralism

Nuclear weapons	Nuclear energy	Terrorism	Iran's nuclear program
North Korea	Nuclear Weapon Free Zones	Conventional weapons	Small Arms and Light Weapons
Arms Trade Treaty	Disarmament and Development

Disarmament

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

"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."

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

"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."

“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.”

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

“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.

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

“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.”

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

“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.”

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

“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.”

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

“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.”

Papua New Guinea
H.E. Sir Michael SOMARE, MP, Prime Minister
September 20, 2006

”Papua New Guinea is extremely concerned about the proliferation. among states. of nuclear, chemical. biological, and other weapons of mass destruction. We continue to maintain that there is no real justification for the retention and further development of these instruments of war. We call upon all countries to ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty and other related treaties to reduce the threat to international peace and security by weapons of mass destruction. Sadly. we were reminded by the Secretary General yesterday of the apathy that surrounds actions on non-proliferation and disarmament.”

Argentina
H.E. Mr. Néstor Carlos KIRCHNER, President
September 20, 2006

"We ratify here our will to achieve peaceful nuclear development, under the verification of international organisations. The commitment of Argentina to disarmament and non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, our adherence to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and our long-standing practice in the field are known to every one."

Kuwait
H.E. Sheikh Mohammad Al-Sabah Al-Salem AL-SABAH, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

"Our leaders have expressed in the final document issued by the 2005 World Summit, their firm belief and conviction in the important role of this organization as an umbrella for multilateral work, they have drawn a roadmap for us to follow so that we work on finding solutions to major
international threats and challenges, which on the whole represent a threat for international peace and security such as terrorism, deterioration of the environment, human rights violations, poverty, hunger, and the spread of dangerous and infectious diseases, like AIDS and Malaria. What causes great concern is the appearance of other challenges to international peace and security, and which are no less dangerous htan the aforementioned ones, such as the incitement of hatred, exnophobia, in its various forms, such as Islamophobia, and all kinds of racial, ethnic and religious discrimination.

After one year has elapsed, and despite of the extensive efforts exerted to follow-up the implementation of the Summit's resolution, regrettably, there is still a need to double those efforts to achieve accomplishment in the fields of disarmament, non-proliferation, combatting terrorism, creating an equilibrium between developed and developing countries in international trade, and reforming the Security Council which will lead to enhancing its authority and efficiency, and lend more transparency and greater fairness to its decisions through giving due consideration to the representation of small states which make up more than one half of the member states in the United Nations."

Lithuania
H.E. Mr. Valdas ADAMKUS, President
September 21, 2006

"Furthermore, we should redouble our efforts to tackle the issues of disarmament and non-proliferation. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the challenges to non-proliferation are mounting. Lithuania strongly supports the strengthening of the effectiveness and efficiency of the IAEA's safeguards system. Compliance with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions is a key to global security. We therefore call on all the states to exercise full compliance in this area vital to our common peace and security."

Lesotho
H. E. The Right Honourable Pakalitha Bethuel MOSISILI, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“My delegation regrets the paralysis that has befallen the UN disarmament machinery. Also regretted is the failure of the 2005 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) to produce a consensus substantive outcome document. Equally regrettable is the absence of a section on non-proliferation and disarmament in the 2005 Summit Outcome Document. A coup de grace was the failure to agree on an outcome document of the 2006 UN conference to review progress in the implementation of the 2001 Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons, in All Its Aspects.

“Member States should therefore, not run away from the blatant truth that during the 60th session of the Assembly, the stalemate that in the last four years has characterized negotiations at the UN regarding non-proliferation and disarmament, became vociferously clear to all nations. For, small arms and light weapons remain the weapons of choice that are indiscriminately used in conflicts as well as in other forms of violence, including criminal behaviour. And yet they are still so easily accessible and inexpensive that in some remote villages, they are exchanged for chickens.”

Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Robert FICO, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“ . . . despite substantial developments the 2005 NPT Review Conference did not provide the necessary guidance on how to address challenges to the non-proliferation regime. The outcome of the Review Conference showed a lack of political will and confirmed continuing crisis in the area of arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation. The World Summit was yet another opportunity to remedy this unfortunate situation but it only confirmed the failure of international community and deepened the crisis.

“We should work together to overcome deadly links like the one between disarmament and non-proliferation and create a progress-friendly atmosphere. We need to restore confidence through compliance with all relevant obligations and commitments made. As the Chair of the Security Council Committee 1540 Slovakia tries to facilitate the process of full implementation of all measures preventing the nexus between WMD proliferation and terrorism. . . . Our aim is to help revitalize the Conference and gives this single multilateral disarmament negotiating forum of the international community a new breath.”

Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Sergey V. LAVROV, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

“Stagnation in the international disarmament process does not help resolve non-proliferation problems. Here again, we need concerted action, for it is a matter of collective security.

“In the area of strategic arms, the U.S.-Russian agreements play an enormously important role. Their significance goes far beyond the framework of bilateral relations given that virtually all members of the international community benefit from the strategic stability. We are supportive of a consistent development of the U.S.-Russian bilateral disarmament process. Closely related with this development are ABM relative issues, in particular within the context of the existing plans of the United States. Here one needs complete transparency and analysis of consequences for the strategic stability.”

“It is necessary to revitalize also multilateral disarmament avenues. This agenda should include entry into force of CTBT, non-deployment of weapons in space, conclusion of the Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty and ensuring information security. Nuclear weapon-free zones play an important role. We welcome the creation of such a zone in Central Asia.”

“The overall task is to reinvigorate the efforts of the international community in the area of disarmament and arms control, within the framework of the Conference on Disarmament and relevant UN bodies.”

Netherlands
H.E. Dr. Bernard R. BOT, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

“More disturbingly, some contries continue to sponsor terrorist groups to promote their own political agendas. In the Middle East, it is essential that all countries, including Iran and Syria, use their influence over organizations such as Hezbollah to stop terrorist assaults, includingn those directed at the state of Israel. Any viable resolution of the conflict must include Hezbollah’s disarmament, its renunciation of violence and a recognition of Israel’s right to exist in peace.”

Mauritius
H.E. The Honourable Dr. Navinchandra RAMGOOLAM, Prime Minister
September 22, 2006

"The multilateral approach to disarmament has been on the backburner of our work for some time. It is unfortunate that little progress has been achieved in respect of the strengthening of the foundations of the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Mauritius supports the aim of the total elimination of all nuclear weapons based on a comprehensive and non-discriminatory disarmament regime."

Liechtenstein
H.E. Mrs. Rita KIEBER-BECK, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"The General Assembly must therefore address in parallel and make progress on the development agenda in all its aspects, system-wide coherence, disarmament, Security Council reform, and other priority areas of the work of the organization."

Kazakhstan
H.E. Mr. Kassymzhomart TOKAEV, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"Kazakhstan invariably calls for an enhanced nuclear-weapon nonproliferation regime. This position is rooted in the sufferings of our people, who are still reeling from negative effects of nuclear explosions at the Semipalatinsk nuclear testing ground, shut down exactly 15 years ago by a decree of President Nursultan A. Nazarbayev. This position has been supported by a historic decision of my country to voluntarily renounce its nuclear arsenal, which used to be the fourth largest in the world. We want that step to serve as a commendable example in the light of the ongoing large-scale crisis that has struck the global security system."

Romania
H.E. Mr. Mihai Răzvan UNGUREANU, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

Terrorism:

Proliferation/Weapons/Security/Terrorism/Multilateralism/Disarmament/Nonproliferation: "Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction has emerged as a major threat to global security and international stability. We should never underestimate any possible prospects that those weapons are used in terrorist activities. We stand for new international efforts aimed at strengthening the existing international regimes, ensuring full and unconditional implementation of obligations undertaken by the States Parties and promoting the universalisation of multilateral treaties and agreements in the field of disarmament and non-proliferation."

Non-Proliferation

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

"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."

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

“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.”

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

Italy
H.E. Mr. Romano PRODI, President
September 20, 2006

“Our aim is to make the Organization more effective in the areas and on the issues in which, by history and vocation, it can provide the most added value. The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, particularly nuclear weapons, has to be seen today in the context above all of the negotiation underway with Iran. But it is our duty to look further ahead and to strive—all together—to consolidate the general non-proliferation system. This is a principle that shall inspire the action of Italy when it enters the Security Council. With regard to the Iranian nuclear dossier, we are ready to make our contribution to a negotiated solution that promotes regional security and stability.”

Argentina
H.E. Mr. Néstor Carlos KIRCHNER, President
September 20, 2006

Croatia
H.E. Mr. Ivo SANADER, Prime Minister
September 20, 2006

"Weapons of mass destruction and a common approach to nonproliferation must remain in our focus. Responsibility for world peace and security must continue to be the key guiding line in dealing with this grave challenge. The rules and standards must be globally accepted and the United Nations and its specialized institutions and agencies must continue to have a pivotal role."

Kuwait
H.E. Sheikh Mohammad Al-Sabah Al-Salem AL-SABAH, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

"Concerning the Iranian nuclear file, Kuwait calls upon all the concerned parties to spare the region any crisis that may lead to undermining the security and stability of this vital region, which, for the last two decades, has been the theater of conflicts and wars that has wasted the fortunes of its countries, dispersed their resources and delayed their development. Therefore, we hope that action will be taken to resolve this crisis by diplomatic means. We urge the Islamic Republic of Iran to continue its cooperation with the IAEA and the international community to dispel any fears or doubts surrounding the nature and aims of its nuclear programme. In this context, we affirm our position on the necessity of making the Middle East, including the Gulf region, an area free from all weapons of mass destruction, including Israel, which must accede to the Non-Proliferation Treaty and subject all of its nuclear facilities to the guarantees of the IAEA."

Canada
H.E. The Right Honourable Stephen HARPER, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“Nuclear proliferation threatens us all. Are we prepared to ensure that Security Council decisions will be implemented fully? Will we act to talk activities that have no reasonable purpose other than the acquisition of nuclear weapons?”

Lesotho
H. E. The Right Honourable Pakalitha Bethuel MOSISILI, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“My delegation regrets the paralysis that has befallen the UN disarmament machinery. Also regretted is the failure of the 2005 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) to produce a consensus substantive outcome document. Equally regrettable is the absence of a section on non-proliferation and disarmament in the 2005 Summit Outcome Document. A coup de grace was the failure to agree on an outcome document of the 2006 UN conference to review progress in the implementation of the 2001 Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons, in All Its Aspects.

“Member States should therefore, not run away from the blatant truth that during the 60th session of the Assembly, the stalemate that in the last four years has characterized negotiations at the UN regarding non-proliferation and disarmament, became vociferously clear to all nations. For, small arms and light weapons remain the weapons of choice that are indiscriminately used in conflicts as well as in other forms of violence, including criminal behaviour. And yet they are still so easily accessible and inexpensive that in some remote villages, they are exchanged for chickens.”

Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Robert FICO, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and related technology of means of transportation continue to threaten global security. It is a serious challenge and we must face it with all responsibility. It requires join multilateral effort with common and effective response."

Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. BAN Ki-moon, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade
September 21, 2006

“The proliferation of WMD poses an equally urgent and unacceptable threat to the peace and security of the world. We cannot permit the credibility of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime, built around the NPT, to be undermined by evasions and concealments in safeguards obligations. We should redouble efforts to get more countries to sign and ratify the IAEA Additional Protocol. An early start of negotiations on a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT) and an early entry into force of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) should also be supported.”

Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Sergey V. LAVROV, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

“The growing significance of the factor of force in the world affairs that we are, unfortunately, witnessing, undermines the non-proliferation regimes. A feeling of predictibility and stability in the area of security is becoming ever more acute. Against this background, an objectively growing interest of many states in nuclear energy may, as a result of the trend for global proliferation of sensitive technologies, give rise to concern. Apart from the current purposeful steps in search of negotiationed solutions to individual problems, such as Iranian nuclear program, and the Korean Peninsula problem, there is a need for urgent internaitonal effort of the entire international community geared towards a systematic strengthening [of] non-proliferation regimes on a generally acceptable basis, while ensuring that the benefits of peaceful atomic energy [remains] legitimitely accessible to all states. President Vladimir V. Putin’s initiative to establish Multilateral Centers for Nuclear Fuel Cycle Services, similar ideas of the IAEA executives, and proposals by the U.S. President George W. Bush running in the same vein have found support among the G8 leaders. We are confident that integration of such approaches and their practical implementations in cooperation with all countries, who have an interest in modern, safe nuclear energy, would allow it to resolve non-proliferation issues in a non-confrontational manner."

“Like in other areas, the obsession with sanctions applied without calculating their consequences might bring unpredictable results. It is absolutely necessary to eliminate the loopholes in the non-proliferation regimes, but this should be done through clear and non-discriminatory approaches without creating grounds for suspicions regarding existence of some hidden agenda."

“Stagnation in the international disarmament process does not help resolve non-proliferation problems. Here again, we need concerted action, for it is a matter of collective security.

Egypt
H.E. Mr. Ahmed ABOUL GHEIT, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

"It is also our duty to keep the question of weapons of mass destruction and their proliferation at the top of the international agenda. We must work to achieve the universality of the NPT taking into account that, nearly theirty years after the establishment of the non-proliferation regime, and eleven years after the indefinite extension of the treaty, the international community is still far from implementing the international obligations assumed in it. We are still far from achieving the Treaty's universality and from reaching the desired balance between the three main pillars adopted by the international community with regards to nuclear disarmament, non proliferation and the right of all states, without exception to benefit from the peaceful uses of nuclear energy."

Nauru
H.E. The Honourable Ludwig SCOTTY MP, President
September 22, 2006

"The proliferation of small arms continues to pose a threat to peace and security in our region. My delegation shares the view of the Secretary-General in his report that, "these weapons may be small, but they cause massive destruction. Nauru is gravely concerned that the 2006 United Nations Conference to review the progress made in the implementation of the program of action on small arms ended without agreement on further measures to combat this problem. If it is said that, "one who is faithful in the small things, will also be faithful in the bigger things", then how can we progress on the elimination of weapons "adaptable to mass destruction" while failing to agree on the issue of small arms and light weapons?"

Oman
H.E. Mr. Yousef Bin Alawi Bin ABDULLAH, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"My country supports the call for a review of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty to close the loopholes in this treaty and to preserve the right of the state parties to obtain nuclear technology for peaceful purposes."

Romania
H.E. Mr. Mihai Răzvan UNGUREANU, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction has emerged as a major threat to global security and international stability. We should never underestimate any possible prospects that those weapons are used in terrorist activities. We stand for new international efforts aimed at strengthening the existing international regimes, ensuring full and unconditional implementation of obligations undertaken by the States Parties and promoting the universalisation of multilateral treaties and agreements in the field of disarmament and non-proliferation."

Security

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

"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."

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.”

"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.”

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

“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.”

“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.”

France
Mr Jacques Chirac, President
September 19, 2006

“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.”

“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.”

“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

“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.”

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

"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"

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

“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.”

“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.”

“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.”

“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.”

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

“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.”

“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.”

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

" 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.”

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

“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.”

“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.”

“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.”

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

“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.”

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

“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?”

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

“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.”

“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.”

“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?”

“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?”

“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.”

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

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

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

“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.”

“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.”

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

"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.”

“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.”

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

“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.”

“Madam President, for long years now, on the basis of our commitment to human rights and dignity, we have had a lasting interest in seeing the emergence of peace in the Middle East. The recognition of the rights of the Palestinian people is a concern to me, as well as to my country. A large number of Sri Lankans have, in recent years, made the Middle East their temporary home. We are pained by the recent escalation of violence in that region, and the devastation in Lebanon. It is our sincere hope that the Security Council Resolution SC 1701 of 2006 will pave the way for peace and security for Lebanon, as well as for the region.”

Maldives
H.E. Mr. Maumoon ABDUL GAYOOM, President
September 20, 2006

"[The UN] must continue to play the central role in promoting cooperation for international peace and security, economic and social development, human rights and the rule of law."

Italy
H.E. Mr. Romano PRODI, President
September 20, 2006

“Terrorism and weapons of mass destruction have changed traditional society and its values. They have rendered obsolete systems of collective defense and security based on deterrence. The old solutions to the world's problems—the logic of balance and hegemony—are no longer enough to guarantee stability and security.”

“The Peace-building Commission is the first major result because it highlights the indestructible bond between development, security, and human rights. A priority commitment to human rights and to safeguarding human rights should be the goal of any country that wishes to lend greater ethical authority to its foreign policy. The results achieved by the reform on this point, through the establishment of the new Human Rights Council, are still being examined. The other significant outcome is the affirmation of the principle of the responsibility to protect, so that the international community will no longer be indifferent before acts of genocide.”

“The other way for the United Nations to regain the forcefulness and credibility it needs to fulfill its mission is by strengthening the role of its great regional stake-holders. I am thinking first of the European Union, because if Europe is stronger, the United Nations will be stronger. The world and the United Nations do not need a Europe that hesitates, but rather a Europe that is able to do its part in the challenges that await us. Europe, in turn, must become more aware that only by contributing to the resolution of global tensions can it give greater security and prosperity to its citizens.”

“Only if Europe wields a more incisive influence on the issues of peace and security can it be considered a true global actor.”

“Our aim is to make the Organization more effective in the areas and on the issues in which, by history and vocation, it can provide the most added value. The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, particularly nuclear weapons, has to be seen today in the context above all of the negotiation underway with Iran. But it is our duty to look further ahead and to strive—all together—to consolidate the general non-proliferation system. This is a principle that shall inspire the action of Italy when it enters the Security Council. With regard to the Iranian nuclear dossier, we are ready to make our contribution to a negotiated solution that promotes regional security and stability.”

“In the Middle East, as I mentioned earlier, we need to seize the opportunities and openings conveyed to us, in the awareness that there will be no peace until the Palestinian question has been resolved: an independent, sovereign, vital and contiguous Palestinian State next to the state of Israel, and both within secure and internationally-recognized borders.”

“Let me return to the central issue of this session, the global partnership for development, to clarify one point. The reinvigoration of multilateralism, United Nations reform, and a collective commitment to the various theaters of crisis risk producing no lasting effect unless development issues are treated as priorities. It is up to the United Nations, as the driving force and the glue of solidarity among peoples and the fullest expression of multilateralism, to keep development at the top of the international agenda. For it is in the connection between security, solidarity, and development that the added value of the UN lies, in the full awareness that there can be no peace without development and no development without peace.”

“I wish to conclude with a few consideration on the fundamental principles and values that inspire our action when we deal with multilateralism, the search for peace, security, development, and North-South relations. All these issues coalesce in the defense of life and the struggle against all forms of hatred, violence, discrimination, and marginalization: undeniable values that, together with democratic principles, are at the foundations of coexistence among peoples and should inspire the action of the world's nations.”

Montenegro
H.E. Mr. Milo DJUKANOVIå, President
September 20, 2006

“Indeed, regional co-operation is inseparable from European and global integratíon, which are essentially about issues of peace, stability, security and prosperíty. The more so, as the globalisatíon which is gaining momentum confronts us with new challenges and new threats of political, environmental and socio-economic nature. The issues of today, such as international terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, illegal migratíon and trafficking, poverty, threats to the environment and so forth highlight the need for a common action. This vision of the future is exemplified in the Millennium Declaration, which projects the principles and goals of the Charter to the world in a new age, híghlighting common responsibility and solidarity in order to accomplish a vision of a more secure, prosperous and just world. Without stabílity there is no democracy, just as wíthout democracy there is no stability and sustainable economíc development. These are interdependent processes that must take place simultaneously, which highlights the importance of accomplishing the Millennium Goals. All this bríngs to the fore the importance of efficient multilateralism through action of the UN, which needs to be reformed in order that it can adequately cope with the challenges of today, as well as other internatíonal and regional organizations and all nations.”

Papua New Guinea
H.E. Sir Michael SOMARE, MP, Prime Minister
September 20, 2006

”Papua New Guinea is extremely concerned about the proliferation. among states. of nuclear, chemical. biological, and other weapons of mass destruction. We continue to maintain that there is no real justification for the retention and further development of these instruments of war. We call upon all countries to ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty and other related treaties to reduce the threat to international peace and security by weapons of mass destruction. Sadly. we were reminded by the Secretary General yesterday of the apathy that surrounds actions on non-proliferation and disarmament.”

“Our world today is marked by an inequitable global trading order and a hostile security environment. Wanton globalization and unfettered trade liberalization are affecting many of us in ways that are detrimental to the livelihoods of our people. Unilateral actions by the big and powerful to resolve disputes are no longer incidental but the order of the day. We note the increasing incidence of human atrocities, genocides. wars, poverty, terrorism, emergence of HIV/AIDS and increase in malaria and TB. Our streets and communities are littered with small arms and light weapons. Drug and human smuggling and other illegal activities are on the rise. Environmental degradation and climate change continue unabated. We must confront these issues urgently. To complement efforts in other fora, Papua New Guinea with other countries of the Pacific Region have agreed to pool our limited resources under the Pacific Plan to address these issues.”

“Papua New Guinea continues to believe that the UN offers the best hope for its member States to address these ongoing concerns and other emerging challenges facing humanity today. In this regard my country supports the ongoing UN reform initiatives that seek to make its operations more effective and responsive. We must ensure that its collective security mandates and functions, and its various organs are strengthened and not weakened.”

Cuba
H.E. Mr. Esteban Lazo HERNÁNDEZ, Vice-President
September 20, 2006

“Non-Aligned countries agreed that world peace and security are today more imperiled than ever as a result, among other factors, of the growing trend of the most powerful States to resort to unilateral measures and to the threat of pre-emptive wars.”

Qatar
His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin hamad AL-THANI, The Heir Apparent
September 20, 2006

“I would like to recall here that Qatar has always sought to be a supportive partner in favour of development efforts, particularly in combating poverty, which reflects favorably on stability and international peace and security.”

“We would like to stress that the guarantee to permanent peace, security and stability in the region lies in making the Middle East a region free from all weapons of mass destruction without any exceptions.”

Argentina
H.E. Mr. Néstor Carlos KIRCHNER, President
September 20, 2006

"The international conduct of the Argentine Republic is inspired by the values of representative democracy, respect for the fundamental human rights and the active defense of international peace and security."

The Dominican Republic
H.E. Mr. Leonel FERNÁNDEZ REYNA, President
September 20, 2006

"One of the global issues that is of great concern in the Dominican Republic and other parts of the world, is that of human security. We have observed, with great consternation, how in recent years there has been an erosion of the internal security of nations, thereby generating an increase in the levels of violence and criminality. This situation, without a doubt, has been fueled by a combination of factors, among them drug trafficking, the illicit trafficking of arms, the trafficking of person, and other further collective criminal behaviour.

Tanzania
H.E. Mr. Jakaya Mrisho KIKWETE, President
September 20, 2006

“Tanzania will continue to play its part In the quest for peace, security, stability and development in the Great Lakes Region. Significant progress has been achieved in the political and security situation in the Great Lakes Region of Africa. We appreciate the support of the United Nations and other partners in the regional peace process.
…
Moreover, Tanzania as current chair of the initiative for peace and security in the Great Lakes Region will work closely with other member countries to ensure a successful Second International Conference on the Great Lakes region later this year in Nairobi.“

“Unfortunately Africa, the poorest of the continents has had an unfair shame of conflict. Like other delegates, we express our concern for the security and humanitarian situation in Darfur, lo and call for continued regional and international community's engagement. Likewise, we are deeply concerned about the situation in Somalia and elsewhere, Cote d' Ivore and in the continent.”

"He will be remembered as one who challenged the Organization to live up to the true promise of multilateralism, in delivering collective security, pursuit of fundamental human rights and promoting human development.”

Albania
H.E. Mr. Alfred MOISIU, President
September 20, 2006

"During this year, Albania based on the Summit 2005 document, undertook concrete actions to encourage the impo rtant objectives of the three main pillars of development, security and human rights and to implement the United Nations ambitious agenda of reforms."

"Albania supports and contributes for a strong and effective United Nations Organization, capable to successfully overcome new challenges because we consider it an Organization based on the values and principals of multilateralism, global partnership for development, joint action to strengthen collective peace and security to the benefit of promoting human rights, Rule of Law and commitments against terrorism."

Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Mr. Adnan TERZIĆ, Chairman of the Council of Ministers
September 20, 2006

"The horrible terrorist attacks on New York, which anniversary we recently marked, have changed the entire security paradigm in the world. The attacks made us think in ever more serious terms. Terrorism is one of the greatest challenges that modern world is facing, and it is virtually impossible to respond to such a challenge individually. Member countries mаy individually strengthen their capacities, but a global and complete response can only be achieved by the UN.

Establishing the Ministry of Security, the intelligence agency, the investigations and protection agency, on the state level, and by coordinating their work thru the Anti-Terrorism Task Force, we have undertaken a series of very important steps, not just in terms of internal reforms, but also in terms of our contribution to the global anti-terrorist combat. We have adopted an Anti-Terrorism Strategy for the period 2006-2009 that will guide us thru the implementation of European standards in this field as well. We are in the finаl phases of adopting a new Law on the fight against terrorism and financial support to terrorism."

Croatia
H.E. Mr. Ivo SANADER, Prime Minister
September 20, 2006

"Weapons of mass destruction and a common approach to nonproliferation must remain in our focus. Responsibility for world peace and security must continue to be the key guiding line in dealing with this grave challenge. The rules and standards must be globally accepted and the United Nations and its specialized institutions and agencies must continue to have a pivotal role."

"Today, many ongoing regional crises continue to cause great humanitarian tragedies around the world, seriously destabilizing regional and global security. The arcs of instabilities are creating a network of fear and anger across many parts of the world. Terrorism is taking on new dimensions and forms. Weapons of mass destruction are yet another cause of grave concern. Economic imbalances and social impediments, from poverty to resources constraints, are becoming new sources of instability across the world. Religious divisions and misunderstandings add a new and dangerous dimension to insecurity in the world."

"Already negotiating future full membership in the European Union, and based on the progress of reforms in the military and in the security sector, also standing at the threshold of NATO membership, Croatia is today an anchor of stability, security and cooperation. My country is therefore an indispensable partner of historical transformation of this often troubled and critically important region for European and world peace - transforming the region into a zone of modern society, democratic standards and values. Croatia's specific position as a Central European, Danubian and Mediterranean country, provides added value in bilateral and multilateral contacts and experience, stemming from participation in numerous global, European and regional organizations and initiatives in the fields of security, democratic development and economic cooperation, including Croatia's current presiding of the South East European Cooperation Process."

"Stability, democratic development and cooperation - but also the resolution of remaining open issues and completing the security architecture of this part of Europe - will also very much have to be related to the indispensability of the protection and promotion of universal values ; the rule of law, human rights and democracy, as well as their inter-relation with security and development."

Kuwait
H.E. Sheikh Mohammad Al-Sabah Al-Salem AL-SABAH, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

"Kuwait follows with grave concern, the difficult security conditions Iraq is witnessing as a result of the continued terrorist acts that target the Iraqi people, state institutions and economic and social facilities. Despite the progress in the political process which led to the formation of a constitutionally elected government, the difficult security conditions impede realizing a similar progress in the field of rebuilding what the previous regime has destroyed as a result of its hostile policies towards its own people and neighbours.

Kuwait reiterates its commitment to all relevant Security Council resolutions and vows to continue supporting the efforts of the Iraqi Government to rebuild, confront security problems and achieve national concord between the various factions of the Iraqi people. We hope the international community will multiply its efforts to support the endeavors of the Iraqi Government and those of the League of Arab States to achieve security and stability in Iraq, which in turn, will contribute to achieving peace and security in the region. There is no doubt that a democratic, secure, stable and prosperous Iraq which respects human rights and which is a master over its own decision without any interference in its internal affairs and lives in peace with its neighbours, will be in the interest of all the states in the region, without any exception. This is what Kuwait hopes for and seeks to achieve."

"Since its founding, the United Nations has achieved numerous accomplishments and demonstrated its efficacy in the establishment of peace and security in different parts of the world, it contributed to preventing many problems from exacerbating until it became an indispensable tool for the international community to confront issues and challenges of global nature. It is our hope that the United Nations record of accomplishments in achieving peace and security will soon include Iraq, the Middle East, Sudan, Somalia, Afghanistan and other countries that are still witnessing conflicts and wars which killed many of their citizens, wasted their resources and destroyed their capabilities and delayed their march towards development and progress."

Israel
H.E. Ms. Tzipi LIVNI, Vice Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

"At its heart, is the vision of two States, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security. Israel believes in this vision, and from this vision we have drawn our principles for peace."

"The second principle for peace is drawn from the concept of living in peace and security. On the basis of this principle the international community has insisted that the State of Palestine that emerges next to Israel cannot be a tenor State. It is the last thing our troubled region needs. It is for this reason that the Road Map requires ail end to terror. It is for this reason that the international community has demanded that any Palestinian government fulfill three basic conditions : renounce terrorism, recognize Israel's right to exist, and accept existing Israeli-Palestinian agreements. These conditions are not an obstacle to peace or to the establishment of a responsible Palestinian state ; they are a crucial ingredient for their realization."

Belgium
H.E. Mr. Karel DE GUCHT, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

"Since the beginning of this year Belgium exercises the chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), a regional organization under Chapter VIII of the UN Charter . Its principles and values are the same as those of the United Nations. Its fields of actions are very similar and complementary, be it the promotion of human rights, democratization, protection of minorities, conflict prevention, crisis management, or protection of the environment. I should also mention the dialogue of civilizations, the fight against the proliferation of small arms and electoral monitoring. The OSCE has played an essential role in maintaining the relation between the two parties in Cold War divided Europe. Since then the Organization has developed a number of norms, principles and commitments that unites all its members and that contributes to the reinforcement of their collective security. One of the objectives of our chairmanship was reinforcing the balance between the three dimensions of the OSCE, political and military, economic and humanitarian. We have tried to establish in those domains synergies with the United Nations where possible such as the problems of landlocked countries, the fight against organized crime and terrorism. During its chairmanship, Belgium actively tries to contribute to a path towards a solution for the so-called "frozen" conflicts. But these solutions will not be possible if we can't count on the will of all parties concerned to move forward."

"The implementation of Resolution 1701 shows that the European Union is becoming more actively involved in the quest for a lasting peace in the Middle East. This is a welcome development . We all agree that this lasting peace will be
predicated on a settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Therefore we must work on all measures which may rapidly open a way to the resumption of the dialogue; an end to the hostilities and security guarantees for both parties, the
liberation of the abducted Israeli soldier, the release of the political leaders arrested during the crisis, humanitarian access and the re-establishment of basic services, kicking off the reconstruction, and restitution of tax and customs income due to the Palestinian authorities."

Uganda
H.E. Mr. Sam KUTESA, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

"...the threat to global peace and security and to human dignity has never been more serious than it is today. This situation obtains today because we are yet to start addressing the real root causes of the problems facing us. My delegation believes that it will remain an uphill task for us to guarantee global peace as long as the majority in developing countries and elsewhere in the world continue to suffer the indignity of poverty and deprivation while we continue with business as usual."

"Uganda is part-and-parcel of the Great lakes region, therefore, our security and development cannot be guaranteed in isolation. For this reason Uganda is fully committed to the realization of peace and security and has continued to play a key role in the search for durable peace and security in the region through dialogue as the most preferred means."

Malawi
H.E. Dr. Bingu Wa MUTHARIKA, President
September 21, 2006

“The theme for this year’s session “Implementing a Global Partnership for Development” is very pertinent because during the 2005 Session, we renewed the mandate of the United Nations to meet the challenges of the millennium, such as eradicating global poverty and injustice, and the promotion of democracy, human rights, peace, security and stability in the member nations,”

“I believe that in the search for global partnership for development, the greatest challenge the United Nations faces is to eradicate poverty that engulfs the majority of humanity. I am pleased to note in this regard, that the G8 countries, together with multilateral agencies and the United Nations, are committed to poverty alleviation and eradication. I believe that global peace, security and stability cannot be assured if the greater section of humanity lives in abject poverty.”

Serbia
H.E. Mr. Boris TADIĆ, President
September 21, 2006

“I would like to assure you that Serbia seeks to make a significant contribution to this part of the world—in terms of fast democratization and respect for human rights, economic development, the security of the entire Balkans and the stability of Southeastern Europe. Instead of being a place where problems are created, Serbia and the Balkans must become a place where problems are resolved in a peaceful manner”

“I trust that a better future for our part of the world is based upon three major principles: Demcracy, as a guarantor of human freedom and basis of economic progress, security of each State as a precondition for the security of the entire Balkans; regional stability as a vital factor of global peace and prosperity.”

“An important aspect of preserving peace and security is efficient and timely deployment of UN peace-keeping forces. Serbia supports the efforts towards strengthening the effectiveness of UN peace-keeping, and my country is ready to make an active contribution to these operations.” Multilateralism: “Serbia is firmly committed to making its full contribution to the strengthening of the role and mandate of the United Nations, as well as to multilateral dialogue leading to equal cooperation among States and peoples, to the respect of human rights and freedoms, to tolerance and mutual respect.”

Colombia
H.E. Mr. Álvaro URIBE VÉLEZ, President
September 21, 2006

“Four years ago, I attended this global forum for the first time to announce that Colombia was beginning an era of democratic security. I explained why security in our times is a democratic value that freedoms cannot prosper without, and also a source of resources, in whose absence, investment does not flow and the possibility of eliminating poverty and building equality is dodgy.”

“I am aware that I could not address you today to propose a theory on democratic security; the opportunity to be President of my Country for four years compels me to present the results of this policy. Colombia has held four general elections and countless local elections. The Referendum, the election of mayors and governors in 2003, were events that tested our democratic meaning of security. This year, the Presidential and congressional elections, highly threatened by terrorists and held on two separate dates, were nonetheless among the most peaceful in many decades. All political alternatives enjoyed effective guaranteed regardless of their level of support for or opposition to the
Government.”

“Under democratic security, Colombia has elected mayors, governors and members of Congress of all tendencies. Security has contained terrorism and allowed the free expression of democracy.”

“There is still more to be done in security and a definitive peace is not yet within reach, but progress is undeniable. The effective protection of Colombians translates into the reduction in the number of homicides, kidnappings, terrorist acts, crimes and threats against journalists and trade union leaders. The totality of governors and majors exercise their functions in their own jurisdictions, overcoming the nightmare of exile they were subjected to as a result of terrorist
actions not countered by the State.”

“To guarantee the sustainability of security across time, our citizens must surround it with credibility. Out job is aimed at building credibility based on effectiveness and transparency. Consequently human rights are an imperative of security. In recent years, our public security forces has grown by 30%, military operations have tripled, and, simultaneously, complaints against public security forces has been reduced by 38%.

“In spite of the way still ahead of us, the most important achievement is the positive valuation that citizens give to security and the collective determination to consolidate it.”

“The demobilization of more than 40,000 members of violent groups, as a result of democratic security, and the efforts put forth by the Country to reintegrate them into Constitutional life, fully prove that for us security is a path to peace and reconciliation.”

“I have come to the United Nations today to ask for resolute support for our security policy and our reintegration program. Violence in Colombia has received much international media coverage, constant criticism of the Government, and little support to overcome it. It is time for the international community to urgently call on violent groups to make peace without any more delays. The Government is as Firm in implementing security, as it is rigorous in respecting democratic rules, and open and generous in looking for peace. A sincere willingness for peace will not face governmental obstacles to reach a definitive reconciliation. The international community must, in a more decisive way, support our security policy. In this manner the results of overcoming violence and looking for peace will be accelerated.”

“We want a modern democracy with security, freedom, social cohesion, transparency and independent institutions. We want a Nation without exclusions and without class hatred, with harmony, rectitude and prosperity. A Nation in permanent democratic dialogue, with fraternity, without insurmountable antagonisms. A Nation integrated into multilateralism, grateful for the efforts of the United nations, receptive to the international community’s suggestions and willing to share its experiences and improve its results.”

Lebanon
H.E. General Emile LAHOUD, President
September 21, 2006

“The Arab Peace Initiative remains the suitable venue to achieve a permanent, comprehensive and just peace, because it simply calls for the implementation of all United Nations resolutions as they pertain to the withdrawal of Israel from all occupied Arab lands, and for the return of Palestinian refugees to their homes. Only such a settlement will be capable of affording Lebanon and its neighboring countries with the stability and security they long for and would give Israel a sense of security—something it has failed to obtain through sheer force and aggression.”

Mozambique
H.E. Mr. Armando Emílio GUEBUZA, President
September 21, 2006

“The second point that can be inferred from this theme is that while underdevelopment can be attributed to a given country its consequences transcend national borders. They go beyond geographical boundaries to, on the one hand, affect national security and demography elsewhere, and, on the other, to raise moral obligations, of new dimension, as well as material challenges in other societies."

Macedonia
H.E. Mr. Branko CRVENKOVSKI, President
September 21, 2006

“Good-neighborly relations and regional cooperation have been and are among top priorities of Macedonia’s foreign policy. We will continue to even more vigorously pursue that kind of policy. There is no alternative to dialogue and all outstanding regional issues should be resolved in that manner. This year the Macedonian delegation will once again introduce a resolution in the First Committee entitled “Maintenance of international security—good neighborliness, stability and development in South-Eastern Europe” which is traditionally widely supported and cosponsored by member states.”

Canada
H.E. The Right Honourable Stephen HARPER, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“No fewer than 19 UN agencies are in Afghanistan. They are working tirelessly to help the Afghan people and their national government shake off the perpetrators of terrorism and build a democratic and secure society…The success of this mission, in providing both security and development, is vital to the safety, livelihood and very future of the Afghan people—but it is also vital to the health and future of this organization.”

Portugal
H.E. Mr. José SOCRATES, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“The United Nations is one of the greatest guarantees for our collective security. Our duty is to preserve it and reinforce it. It is an investment from which we all have to benefit. Each one of us is a Member of this Organization not only to serve and promote our own national interests but also—and I would say above all—to fulfill the hopes and dreams of the people of the whole world.”

“I am pleased to stress the determination with which the European Union has been reinforcing its partnership with Africa. The current drafting of an Euro-African Joint Strategy will lead to a ‘script’ for our relations with Africa in the fundamental areas of peace and security, good governance and human rights, regional trade and integration, and human development.”

Lithuania
H.E. Mr. Valdas ADAMKUS, President
September 21, 2006

"Few security issues are as dramatic as terrorism, with its indiscriminate targeting of civilian lives in an ever expanding geography. Five years ago, the people of this very city suffered a brutal and cold blooded attack on the values of humanity and tolerance that forever changed the world as we knew it. It is therefore essential that we unite our efforts for this to never happen again. Welcoming the adoption of an anti-terrorism strategy we call to complete our work on the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism as soon as possible and put it into practice."

"Furthermore, we should redouble our efforts to tackle the issues of disarmament and non-proliferation. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the challenges to non-proliferation are mounting. Lithuania strongly supports the strengthening of the effectiveness and efficiency of the IAEA's safeguards system. Compliance with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions is a key to global security. We therefore call on all the states to exercise full compliance in this area vital to our common peace and security."

"At the same time, security, as it has usually been defined, has a broader meaning now. With equal attention we should deal with climate change, energy security, and dire food or water shortages."

"Only a comprehensive approach can ensure that the inextricable link between security, development, and human rights that we all agree on will translate into real and positive impact on the lives of countless of millions of human beings around the world."

Lesotho
H. E. The Right Honourable Pakalitha Bethuel MOSISILI, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“The United Nations Organization was founded on the inter-linked and mutually reinforcing pillars of development, international peace, security and human rights. The issue of development therefore deserves the undivided attention and commitment of Member States, just like the issues of peace, security and human rights.”

“Terrorism continues to pose the greatest threat to human security. In this regard I wish to welcome the adoption of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy by the General Assembly. However, it is unfortunate that the General Assembly’s Ad Hoc Committee on Terroism has still not been able to conclude a comprehensive convention on international responses to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The fact remains that Member States have a moral obligation to overcome their longstanding differences to the definition of terrorism. Failure to agree on a definition, however, CANNOT and MUST NOT be used as an excuse for NOT confronting decisively the scourge of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.”

Samoa
H.E. Mr. Tuilaepa Sailele MALIELEGAOI, Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade
September 21, 2006

“Development, security and human rights are the three pillars of the United Nations. All are mutually reinforcing.”

“The successful resolution of [global concerns such as] climate change, epidemics, humanitarian concerns, conflict containment, security concerns, and terrorism . . . requires collective and concerted effort of the whole United Nations membership because no one country or group of countries is capable of tackling them alone.”

“The humanitarian and security situation in Darfur is a cause for concern.”

Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Robert FICO, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“Slovakia is a strong believer in multilateralism. Being a smaller country we view an effective multilateralism not just as a fashionable term, but as a guarantee of security, equality and justice. Our present experience of an elected member of the Security Council fully proves that only through an effective multilateral action the world community can successfully address modern threats and resolve current conflicts. We do not have to be uncritical fans of the UN to be persuaded that the strengthened multilateral system with the UN playing a central role is a necessity. It is telling to see that while the talk about the UN crisis has intensified, the demand for UN field operations and its involvement in crisis management has sharply increased.”

“In conclusion, I would like to draw attention to an issue which is increasingly important in shaping international programmes for development assistance, democracy promotion, security co-operation and post-conflict peace building. I am referring to the security sector reform (SSR). Slovakia tries hard to stimulate a broad discussion on the role of SSR in the UN context with a view of increasing the understanding of the topic and suggesting possible options for the development of comprehensive and coherent approach. Our wish is to give an impetus to developing a comprehensive policy framekwork that would guide UN SSR programs and projects in a coherent, consistent and sustainable way. Victims of conflict suffering from the misery of bad governance, corruption, abuse of power, weak institutions and lack of accountability deserve that the international community is more efficient in carrying out SSR programs and rebuilding functioning states that emerged from conflict. We should not spare any efforts in meeting their expectations. Above all, the Outcome Document commits us to help states build capacity to protect their own population from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crime against humanity and to assist those who are under stress before and after conflicts break out. Developing and implementing an comprehensive SSR framework, as a precondition for effective and sustainable peace-building is the right step in increasing our collective capacity to honour this obligation.”

Spain
H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel MORATINOS, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
September 21, 2006

Egypt
H.E. Mr. Ahmed ABOUL GHEIT, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006:

"Last but not least the negotiations on the reform of the Organization have proven that some believe that the collective security regime was established to enable those who posses the military might to impose political settlements under international protection. While the great majority believes that the lessons of history, most recently in Lebanon, have proven that military might can not and will not be able to impose a political settlement. Such settlements must be reached through negotiations alone."

"Together we must work to increase the ability of the collective security regime to swiftly deal with international problems. We must stand up to the arrogance of power of some in order to attempts to impose temporary solutions through unliteral actions or military solutions that might surface of problems without delving into the root causes. They lead to the exacerbation of problems through fanning the flames of hatred and the rejection of other. This in turn feeds terrorism and extremism and leads those who despair of the justice of the international system to rebel against the will of the international community."

"Experience has proven time and time again that the success of security efforts will remain limited and fragile if it is not part of a wider political framework that ensures the basic rights of the parties and encourages them to make the difficult decisions necessary for the improvement of the security situation."

Angola
H.E. Dr. João Bernardo de MIRANDA, Minister of External Affairs
September 21, 2006

"The aspirations of the peoples of the Member States of this Assembly to stability, security, and social justice continue unfulfilled. The persisting armed violence in some states and the faint results in the fight against world poverty have been contributing to this picture, which consequently makes them two of the chief challenges for the United Nations."

"We face new tendencies in areas afflicted by violence. It is more indiscriminate; it emerges not only from inter-state or internal conflicts; instead it arises increasingly from actions that seek to alter the way of life of societies through intimidation and the brutal destruction of human lives. In recent times alone, at least over a dozen countries in four continents were severely hit by acts of terror, which have become the most direct and immediate threat to international peace and security."

Palestine
H.E. President Mahmoud ABBAS, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization and President of the Palestinian National Authority
September 21, 2006

"Only a few weeks ago, the fire of war stopped raging in Lebanon. Despite the gravity of the losses, destruction and tragedy, the international community expeditiously, effectively, and successfully intervened to put an end to the war, and to provide support to the people and legitimate government of Lebanon, in order to safeguard its security and independence and to end the era of war on its soil. As I commend this international role, I hope that this positive and effective intervention extends politically and practically to resolve the root of all the conflicts and wars that have plagued our region over many decades. Indeed, after all the experiences of wars that we have been through, I need not to reconfirm the fact that without resolving the question of Palestine, and the continuation of the occupation of Palestinian and Arab lands since 1967, the elements of tension and conflagration, will keep the conflict alive, and will keep the door wide open to all forms of violence, terrorism, regional confrontations and global crises."

"I would like to reaffirm that any future Palestinian government will commit to all the agreements that the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Palestinian National Authority have committed to, particularly, the Letters of Mutual Recognition exchanged between the two great late leaders Yassar Arafat and Itzhak Rabin on September 9th, 1993. These letters contain mutual recognition between Israel and the PLO, renunciation of violence, and commitment to negotiations as the path towards reaching a permanent solution that will lead to the establishment of the independent State of Palestine alongside the State of Israel. Any future government will commit to imposing security and order, to ending the phenomena of multiple militias, indiscipline and chaos, and to the rule of law, since this is primarily a national Palestinian need."

Georgia
H.E. Mr. Mikheil SAAKASHVILI, President
September 22, 2006:

"The foundation of modern peace and security in Europe is based directly upon the very principle of respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty. Indeed it is the cornerstone of the contemporary international order. If the Russian Federation persists in attempting to make this dangerous linkage and undermine that fundamental order - its impact will be far reaching - and the pandora's box of violent separatism and conflict will be unleashed not only in the Caucasus, but across many parts of our globe."

Nauru
H.E. The Honourable Ludwig SCOTTY MP, President
September 22, 2006

"Sustainable development and basic human rights cannot thrive in a world without peace and security. We must continue to strengthen our collective efforts in resolving conflicts and threats of terrorism through prevention and effective political solutions."

Iraq
H.E. Mr. Jalal TALABANI, President
September 22, 2006

"The terrorist operations and the activities of the Tekfiris and organized crime groups in our country is not only characterized by killing innocent people, and provoking security chaos, but it also aims to destroy infrastructures and hamper the continuous efforts for rebuilding the country and putting it on the path of peace, security and democracy."

"We are encouraging [groups] to join the national action until all forces are mobilized to bring about political stability and security in the country. While we doggedly work for a secure and stable Iraq, we also strive to re-establish an advanced and developed country, to do our part in ensuring safety and the possibility of peace for all."

Mauritius
H.E. The Honourable Dr. Navinchandra RAMGOOLAM, Prime Minister
September 22, 2006

"There seems to be a unanimous view in the world today that the epicenter of global insecurity and instability remains in the Middle East. Global peace and prosperity will remain an elusive dream unless and until the international community stretches all its diplomatic sinews to create conditions for lasting peace in the region. Mauritius strongly believes that a fair and final settlement for peace in the Israel-Palestine conflict rests in the early implementation of the existing Roadmap endorsed by the international community."

Palau
H.E. The Honorable Mr. Elias Camsek CHIN, Vice President
September 22, 2006

We are hopeful that the expanded UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) will bring peace and security to both Israel and Lebanon."

United Kingdom
H.E. The RT Honorable Mrs. Margaret BECKETT MP, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
September 22, 2006

"In Afghanistan, real progress has been made, with the UN taking a leading role
in coordinating the international effort. But real challenges still lie ahead: NATO's
task of securing the south of country is far from easy and soldiers from many NATO
countries, not least my own, have given their lives to provide a better future for the
people of Afghanistan. The Afghan government and people too want security, development and good governance. The UK and the international community are determined to help them achieve them."

"The security challenges the world faces are real. As an international community we must deal with them. But standing united also requires us to take up a second, deeper level of global responsibility: tackling the underlying problems that promote conflict and underdevelopment. We must strive to promote sound global values and to build multilateral systems within which nations and individuals can co-operate, co-exist and each achieves their potential."

"Progress on these goals is a moral imperative, rooted in a concern for and an understanding of our common humanity. But it is also a political imperative. Because there will be no stability and security in our global community while so many millions of men, women and children in that community face only a life of hunger, poverty, inequality and disease."

"Our climate presents us with an ever-growing threat to international security. Dealing with climate change - both adapting to what is now inevitable and acting to avert still greater damage - is no longer a choice, it is an imperative."

Oman
H.E. Mr. Yousef Bin Alawi Bin ABDULLAH, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"Regarding the issue of combating terrorism, we are of the view that reaching an effective international strategy to fight terrorism necessitates striking a balance between security requirements and commitment do human rights conventions. It is not wise at all, to endanger security and stability of states under the pretext of combating terrorism. It is also not! fare to expose innocents to injustice."

"Today more than ever, we need an effective United Nations capable of shouldering its responsibilities in the maintenance of international peace and security."

Germany
H.E. Dr. Frank-Walter STEINMEIER, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"I am firmly convinced that a dialogue beyond cultural borders can succeed. For despite all differences, we are living in one world. The different cultures in this world have more in common than political rabble-rousers would have us believe. People everywhere have the same fundamental interests: they want to live in peace, security and free of poverty. They want good health care and good schools for their children."

Solomon Islands
H.E. The Honorable Mr. Manesseh SOGAVARE, Prime Minister
September 22, 2006

"Solomon Islands is also concerned on security threats on the Taiwan Strait. My delegation calls on all member states to distinguish our collective interests to preserve peace from narrow interests that threatens peace. Solomon Islands further calls on the United Nations, the body responsible for the maintenance of international peace and security to mediate and engage with the People's Republic of China, Taiwan and other stakeholders in finding a permanent solution to the issue."

Bahrain
H.E. Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmed AL-KHALIFA, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"We, in the Kingdom of Bahrain, still view the phenomenon of terrorism and terrorist acts as the most dangerous challenge threatening international peace and security. There must be greater efforts exerted by the international community, and more coordination on all levels, to confront this scourge. The Kingdom of Bahrain commends the United Nations' efforts to fight terrorism. The Secretary-General's Report issued last April entitled: "Uniting Against Terrorism: Recommendations for a Global Counter Terrorism Strategy" contains many constructive elements that we embrace, as along with other points that need further examination and discussion. It is important that any counter-terrorism strategy does not infringe on human rights or fundamental freedoms, and comply with international law. One of the positive aspects of this Report is its call to address the issues that are exploited by terrorists, and to study the motives behind terrorism. The Kingdom of Bahrain has continued its efforts in this field. In fact, it has already signed eleven of the twelve international agreements on terrorism and continues to host the Middle East North Afi-ica Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) established in November 2004 to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. In addition, Bahrain continuously coordinates efforts with its brotherly neighbours of the GCC pursuant to the GCC Counter-Terrorism Agreement adopted in May 2004."

"The events in the Middle East over recent months, especially in the Gaza strip and the occupied territories in the West Bank, and then during the last few weeks in Lebanon, have driven the entire region to an abyss which could become even more dangerous. We must all work more urgently to address the roots and causes of this struggle, which frustrates hopes for peace and disappoints the aspirations of the peoples of the region for peace and security."

"We also confirm that the Kingdom of Bahrain stands alongside the brotherly Republic of Lebanon against anything that endangers its security, and in avoiding acts outside the Lebanese state authority that endanger its stability. We also appreciate the efforts of the Arab tripartite committee, the State of Qatar- the Arab member of the Security Council- and the States which supported the Arab position."

"Today, we need all our joint efforts to achieve the collective security system, the aim we all are trying to achieve through multilateral diplomacy, for which the United Nations is the main arena."

New Zealand
Mr. Winston PETERS, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"The United Nations is passing through a period of challenge to its relevance and effectiveness. It has confronted serious political and security shocks - fresh hostilities in the Middle East, the tragic and worsening situation in Darfur - and in our own region, instability in Timor-Leste."

"These issues must be tackled with new resolve, using the international, multilateral system as a tool for peace and progress. The international response to the Security Council's call for an expanded United Nations International Force in Lebanon shows that the international community can react to conflict and provide basic stabilization.

"But such responses are doomed to failure unless the underlying political and security issues are addressed. It is imperative to relaunch the Middle East Peace process covering all issues, on the basis of the relevant Security Council resolutions."

"Timor encapsulates the principle that peace and security cannot be separated from economic development, social reconciliation and the protection of basic human rights."

Greece
H.E. Ms. Dora BAKOYANNIS, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"Kosovo is one issue that still needs attention. The status talks are underway and we hope that they will produce a viable settlement that will strengthen the security and stability of the entire region. Right now this appears difficult. To overcome the impasse will require patient and careful diplomacy. Our goal in reaching a viable, long term solution should not be compromised by setting an artificial deadline."

Singapore
H.E. Mr. George YEO, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"The Middle East is going through the throes of change. In Palestine, there is no escaping a two-state solution. However, defining the precise boundaries of that solution is a grinding process which will take time. No one can achieve all his demands; no party can insist on absolute security. Between Sunnis and Shiites in Lebanon, Iraq and elsewhere in the region, a new balance is being established. This will also take time. In many countries, there is tension between those who are impatient for change and those who believe that discontinuity will lead to chaos and anarchy. For as long as there is more despair than hope, terrorist organizations will be able to find fresh recruits. What happens in the Middle East affects the entire world. No country is insulated, if nothing else, from the terrorist threat and high energy prices."

Kazakhstan
H.E. Mr. Kassymzhomart TOKAEV, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"lack of any progress on the issue of reforming the work of the General Assembly and the Security Council seriously impedes the institutional reform of the Organization. In our view, further delays in that process might have a negative impact on the United Nations efforts in the areas of international stability, security and development."

"We live in a world where tensions between States and armed conflicts are still very much part of everyday life. The crisis in Lebanon has highlighted yet again the need to use effectively the United Nations capacity to maintain international peace and security. Since the early days of the conflict, Kazakhstan has called for the strengthening of the Security Council role in the settlement of that crisis."

"Regrettably, lack of an effective mechanism to prevent the break up and spread of armed conflicts remains a serious problem. In our view, the establishment of a United Nations Preventive Diplomacy and Conflict Prevention Center in Central Asia remains a relevant proposition. That Center would focus on the provision of advice and expertise to the countries of the region, taking into account their national interests and security considerations."

"Inefficiency of the institutional system of the United Nations and lack of broad understanding among Member States negatively affect global and regional stability and security."

Morocco
H.E. Mr. Mohamed BENAISSA, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
September 22, 2006

"Since its inception, the United Nations has contributed to the settlement of many international disputes and the establishment of peace and security in many regions. However, the Middle East and Africa still suffer from many conflicts, wars and economic and social crises which thwart peoples' natural aspiration for stability and development."

Rwanda
H.E. The Honourable Mrs. Rosemary MUSEMINALI, Minister of State for Cooperation
September 22, 2006

"The "scourge of war' continues to cause massive loss of human life and bhght entire communities. The on-going conflicts in some parts of Africa and the Middle East are a serious threat to international peace and security, and require our collective efforts to reach political settlements to these conflicts."

Multilateralism

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

"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."

" 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."

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

“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.”

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

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

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

”The establishment of the Peace-Building Commission and the Human Rights Council, alongside other important 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.”

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

“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.”

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

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

“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.”

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

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.”

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.”

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

“Madam President, we in Sri Lanka see the United Nations as an organization that is indispensable to create a just and secure world order.
“We, the 192 members of the United Nations, must continue to have faith in our collective capacity for reforming the United Nations, so that it is made more effective and more relevant to the needs of its members in facing the challenges of the 21st century.”

Maldives
H.E. Mr. Maumoon ABDUL GAYOOM, President
September 20, 2006

"If we are to address the vast array of challenges that humanity faces today, we must effectively implement crucial blueprints and action programmes agreed through the multilateral process. … And, as Secretary-General Kofi Annan said earlier this month, the UN must move from a culture of reaction to one of prevention."

Italy
H.E. Mr. Romano PRODI, President
September 20, 2006

“Let me return to the central issue of this session, the global partnership for development, to clarify one point. The reinvigoration of multilateralism, United Nations reform, and a collective commitment to the various theaters of crisis risk producing no lasting effect unless development issues are treated as priorities. It is up to the United Nations, as the driving force and the glue of solidarity among peoples and the fullest expression of multilateralism, to keep development at the top of the international agenda. For it is in the connection between security, solidarity, and development that the added value of the UN lies, in the full awareness that there can be no peace without development and no development without peace.”

“I wish to conclude with a few consideration on the fundamental principles and values that inspire our action when we deal with multilateralism, the search for peace, security, development, and North-South relations. All these issues coalesce in the defense of life and the struggle against all forms of hatred, violence, discrimination, and marginalization: undeniable values that, together with democratic principles, are at the foundations of coexistence among peoples and should inspire the action of the world's nations.”

“If we wish to govern these phenomena, we need to be equal to their dimensions. No country, however strong and powerful it may be, can take on such complex challenges single-handedly. Global threats demand a global response. In the final analysis, this means collective partnership.

“To have chosen as the theme of the 61st General Assembly "Implementing a global partnership for development" was thus particularly appropriate. Without collective action by the countries in the northern and southern hemispheres, international organizations and institutions, the public and the private sector, and civil society, it will be impossible to achieve the goals we have set.”

“First and foremost we need to reinvigorate multilateralism, by which I mean restoring the central, fundamental role of the United Nations.”

Cuba
H.E. Mr. Esteban Lazo HERNÁNDEZ, Vice-President
September 20, 2006

“The urgent need to make progress in the defense of multilateralism, to demand respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States and ensure the full realization of our peoples Summit as the Movement.”

Argentina
H.E. Mr. Néstor Carlos KIRCHNER, President
September 20, 2006

"We would like to firmly condemn the serious threat of global terrorism. Argentina conciders all acts of terrorism against innocent civilians are criminal and unjustifiable, and accepts no argument attempthing to justify atacks against the civil population.
…
We believe that, in order to face this criminal threat successfully, we must carry out a multilateral ad legitimate response that is sustained through time. Respect for human rights, international humanitarian law and refugee law is essential, and so are the international cooperation and legal assistance to effectively enforce the norms against terrorism. If, in order to face up to global terrorism, we resort to a global violation of human rights, the only winner in this fight shall be terrorism. We will only advance firmly in the fight against terrorism if we frame it within respect for local laws and international norms and conventions. No complication can be an excuse for not combating terrorism with legality. Peace is built and maintained by understanding the true concept of solidarity among nations, from a wider dimension than the purely militari or the predominantly unilateral. Nations big and small, rich and poor, will be exposed to a marked vulnerability if we do not understand that the fight against terrorism demans a multilateral, intelligent action sustained over time and firmly based in legitimacy, respect for fundamental rights, proportionality in the response and the support of international public opinion."

"The existence of tensions and difficulties Humanity is going though must not prevent us from realizing the steep decline of the authoritarian idea that the accumulation of military power can ensure unilateral solutions to conflicts and to threats. This false illusion has only led to gigantic failure and has provoked great suffering. If with limitations, it is the multilateral solutions, it is the arduous processes of negotiation, which show as the best way, the best alternative. In this context, the United Nations are called upon to play a fundamental role for a better understanding among nations in order to ensure a safe, peaceful and fairer world in the coming years."

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

“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.”

Guatemala
H.E. Mr. Oscar BERGER PERDOMO, President
September 20, 2006

"My country’s foreign policy is in accordance with the national interests that hold as principles a better insertion of Guatemala in the globalizes world, as well as the strenghtening of multilateralism and regional integration."

Zimbabwe
H.E. Mr. Robert Gabriel MUGABE, President
September 20, 2006

"Let me conclude by reiterating the fact that the future of the international community is best served by an international order that is based on strengthening multilateralism. It is our conviction that only through a multilateral approach can we achieve peace and development. For us to successfully tackle the challenges that we face, there is need for more than just pious expressions of solidarity. Together as global partners in development, we can guarantee a prosperous future for generations to come. Such a partnership should be based on the principles of sovereign equality of nations and on mutual benefit."

Tanzania
H.E. Mr. Jakaya Mrisho KIKWETE, President
September 20, 2006

“Tanzania has always stood for the sovereign equality of nations and for the primacy of multilateralism in global governance and in addressing global issues. We have always cherished and stood for the central role of the United Nations in global affairs.”

"He will be remembered as one who challenged the Organization to live up to the true promise of multilateralism, in delivering collective security, pursuit of fundamental human rights and promoting human development.”

Namibia
H.E. Mr. Hifikepunye POHAMBA, President
September 20, 2006

"Today, the world needs a stronger United Nations and effective multilateralism that reflects the current realities. This is the only way humanity can respond timely and without hesitation to the global challenges that we face. We fully support comprehensive reforms of the United Nations as proposed by the Secretary-General."

Ecuador
H.E. Mr. Alfred PALACIO, President
September 20, 2006

"...it is unconceivable that the lives of millions of human beings, of entire populations depend on the veto of such or such State and on a unilateral geopolitical vision. The notions of war and peace have been brought back to the heart of our reflection on planetary security and survival. The security of the planet, of the peoples, the states and the nations will only be durable if it is sown on health, on education, on development. If it is sown on peace. Laying the foundations of true peace is the greatest moral obligation of all of humanity. The alternative is growing insecurity, fed by misery and fear."

Albania
H.E. Mr. Alfred MOISIU, President
September 20, 2006

Croatia
H.E. Mr. Ivo SANADER, Prime Minister
September 20, 2006

"Croatia recognizes the importance of global multilateralism as well as the growing significance of regional organizations in tackling the challenges of today's world. The role of the United Nations in the promotion of international cooperation for development and the achievement of the development goals agreed to by the international community must remain fundamental, pivotal and re-energized. We also welcome the strengthening of coordination within the UN system in close cooperation with all other multilateral financial, trade and development institutions in order to support sustained economic growth and sustainable development."

Kuwait
H.E. Sheikh Mohammad Al-Sabah Al-Salem AL-SABAH, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

Belgium
H.E. Mr. Karel DE GUCHT, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

“We want a modern democracy with security, freedom, social cohesion, transparency and independent institutions. We want a Nation without exclusions and without class hatred, with harmony, rectitude and prosperity. A Nation in permanent democratic dialogue, with fraternity, without insurmountable antagonisms. A Nation integrated into multilateralism, grateful for the efforts of the United nations, receptive to the international community’s suggestions and willing to share its experiences and improve its results.”

Portugal
H.E. Mr. José SOCRATES, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“The last decade has been one of great changes. The United Nations have had undoubted successes but there have also been missed opportunities. We cannot afford to make the same mistakes again. Many accuse this Organization of undue complexity, slowness in its decision-making process, and even excessive bureaucracy. But if there is something that we all have learned is that there is no alternative to multilateralism, where the United Nations plays a determinant role.”

“I underline here Portugal’s commitment towards multilateralism, for we strongly believe that this path is where one can better uphold the essential values of peace and development. A big part of this multilateral action rests on a dialogue between cultures and civilizations. This is a collective responsibility through which we can overcome obstacles, prejudices and, principally, ignorance. Our challenge here is not to limit ourselves to mere declarations but to take firm and concrete steps towards greater interaction between peoples and cultures.”

“The Middle East is not a military issue. It is, above all, a political and diplomatic challenge. We should not, then, miss the window of opportunity offered by Resolution 1701 of the Security Council. It is a challenge where the United Nations and the European Union take shared responsibilities in promoting peace and stability, through an effective multilateralism.”

“In Bissau we pledged our commitment to reach the Millennium Development Goals, by defining and implementing a general cooperation strategy in which fulfilling them is the priority. This is also our priority. We shall implement it, within a bilateral and multilateral cooperation strategy that may speed up the fight against poverty, alleviate the pressure on migratory fluxes, and promote sustainable development.”

Lithuania
H.E. Mr. Valdas ADAMKUS, President
September 21, 2006

"For all its criticism, the United Nations remains the only organization with the potential of embodying a truly global and effective multilateralism. Therefore, whatever we do, we should continue to ask ourselves: are we, the Member States, doing enough to help the UN fulfill its promise to mankind? We are a world family and we have responsibilities to one another."

Andorra
H.E. Mr. Albert PINTAT, Head of Government
September 21, 2006

“We must recognize that collectively we are the United Nations. We represent humanity as a whole. We are betraying them if we do not seek to make the United Nations a more robust and efficient machine. If we continue blindly, caring only for our national self-interest, we bestay their trust. Multilateralism, which we as a group embody in this august chamber, is the path that will lead to many of the soltuions. The plight of the unfortunate should not fall on deaf ears. We should join together to solidify democratic insitutions and processes and in doing so fight against poverty, war, disease, illiteracy and corruption. This should be our common cause. It is only through this joint effort that we will be able to raise our approach to a collectively ethical and morally correct level.”

Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Robert FICO, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“My government . . . is committed to foreign policy that emphasizes effective multilateralism and promotes democracy, international peace and security, greater respect for human rights, including rights of persons belonging to national and other minorities, rule of law, social equality and environmental protection.”

“All of us know that the UN is once again on the crossroads as we face the historic test of multilateralism.”

“In the present-day world, no country can cope with [modern global challenges] in isolation nor ensure its development and security on its own. In the complex system of global relations with a growing number of players, including non-state actors with multiple interests, we all have to balance our own interest’s with those of others. The major challenges of today cannot be managed by sovereign states acting alone. They are a shared responsibility of the entire world and demand solutions that, like problems themselves, also cross national boundaries.”

Mongolia
H.E. Mr. Miyegombo ENKHBOLD, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“Mongolia stands resolved to actively participate in the work of the United Nations and other multilateral organizations and processes and reaffirms her commitment to the world Organization as a central coordinating instrument of common efforts of the world nations to maintain peace and promote development.”

Sierra Leone
H.E. Mr. Solomon BEREWA, Vice President
September 21, 2006

“The people of Sierra Leone are conscious of the fact that the peace they know enjoy is a product of the support of, and cooperation with, the United Nations and the international community. . . . Above all at this time we need the sustained engagement of international partners. This is why we are seeking to expand and reinforce our partnerships with the external world. Partnerships that can support us now, and remain with us as we pursue the longer-term agenda for sustainable development.”

Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Sergey V. LAVROV, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

“Regional organizations and their cooperation and coordination with the United Nations in maintaining world peace and security have strengthened. . . . Once again, we are dealing with an important dimension of the collective action by the international community.”

“Collective efforts are also needed to further develop the international law, primarily within the context of countering new threas. The UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy recently adopted by consensus is an important contribution in terms of strengthening the legal basis for the anti-terrorist coaltion and ensuring a comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism. It is not only about countering all manifestations and ideology of terrorism, it is also about removing problems that serve as its nutrient medium. Next in the pipeline is agreement on a Comprehensive Anti-terrorism Convention."

“It is necessary to secure the achievements by practical deeds. In the course of Russia’s presidency in the G8 the International “Moscow-1 – Paris-2” Conference was held where additional measures were approved aimed at mobilizing global community to counter the terrorism-related drug threat originating from Afghanistan. Another international forum to be held in Moscow next November will focus on developing modalities for government-to-business partnership in countering terrorism."

“It is necessary to revitalize also multilateral disarmament avenues."

Spain
H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel MORATINOS, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
September 21, 2006

“The understanding and cooperation among countries within multilateral organizations will help to clear up the many questions that our century will raise, a century marked by globalization which reaches all parts of the planet and pervades the many areas of everyday life, transforming, at the same time, the power of States and the system of international relations.”

“Interdependence and multidimensional changes are omnipresent in the life of the international community where old conflicts lie side by side with new challenges.”

Egypt
H.E. Mr. Ahmed ABOUL GHEIT, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

“Together we must work to increase the ability of the collective security regime to swiftly deal with international problems. We must stand up to the arrogance of power of some in order to attempts to impose temporary solutions through unliteral actions or military solutions that might surface of problems without delving into the root causes. They lead to the exacerbation of problems through fanning the flames of hatred and the rejection of other. This in turn feeds terrorism and extremism and leads those who despair of the justice of the international system to rebel against the will of the international community.”

“Let us work together to strengthen the principles of democracy in the international multilateral setting. Let us make dialogue and mutual respect the language of our discourse. Let us give the lofty human ideals and the common good precedence over narrow selfish interests. Let us cast aside our differences and be real partners.”

Palestine
H.E. President Mahmoud ABBAS, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization and President of the Palestinian National Authority
September 21, 2006

: "We have heard lately from the Government of Israel that it will abandon the policy of unilateralism and one-sided actions. This is encouraging, provided that the alternative is not stagnation or the imposition of facts on the ground, but rather a return to the negotiation table and reaching a comprehensive solution to all of the permanent status issues, to ensure a secure future for our children and their."

Mauritius
H.E. The Honourable Dr. Navinchandra RAMGOOLAM, Prime Minister
September 22, 2006

United Kingdom
H.E. The RT Honorable Mrs. Margaret BECKETT MP, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
September 22, 2006

"The security challenges the world faces are real. As an international community we must deal with them. But standing united also requires us to take up a second, deeper level of global responsibility: tackling the underlying problems that promote conflict and underdevelopment. We must strive to promote sound global values and to build multilateral systems within which nations and individuals can co-operate, co-exist and each achieves their potential."

Germany
H.E. Dr. Frank-Walter STEINMEIER, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"The UN's effectiveness and the confidence it inspires as the international community's main multilateral organization are closely connected. Everyone can see how necessary transparent structures and effective institutions are for the UN. Reform of the United Nations, not only of the Security Council, should not therefore simply remain on the agenda - concrete progress must be made."

New Zealand
Mr. Winston PETERS, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"New Zealand is committed to multilateralism. This is not some act of faith - but to multilateralism that really delivers. We need to be prepared to work diligently for the good of the global community."

"These issues must be tackled with new resolve, using the international, multilateral system as a tool for peace and progress. The international response to the Security Council's call for an expanded United Nations International Force in Lebanon shows that the international community can react to conflict and provide basic stabilization.
"But such responses are doomed to failure unless the underlying political and security issues are addressed. It is imperative to relaunch the Middle East Peace process covering all issues, on the basis of the relevant Security Council resolutions."

Philippines
H.E. Mr. Alberto Gatmaitan ROMULO, Secretary for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"Multilateral cooperation in the field of energy security has gained and will continue to gain importance."

Morocco
H.E. Mr. Mohamed BENAISSA, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
September 22, 2006

"More than ever, the world needs today a more efficient United Nations Organization that can translate the aspirations of all the peoples of the world, uphold the principles of international legality and foster the spirit of multilateralism with innovative mechanisms, enriching components and innovative ideas likely to yield positive results."

Nuclear Weapons

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

“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.”

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

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

“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.”

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

“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?”

“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;”

Italy
H.E. Mr. Romano PRODI, President
September 20, 2006

Cuba
H.E. Mr. Esteban Lazo HERNÁNDEZ, Vice-President
September 20, 2006

“The [Non-Aligned] Movement’s commitment to general and complete disarmament and nuclear disarmament in particular, under strict and efficient international monitoring, was underscored. The Summit [of the Non-Aligned Movement] also reaffirmed the basic and inalienable right of all States to research, development, production and the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, and to be free from any kind of discrimination in this connection, in conformity with their respective international obligations.”

“[As Castro said at the Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement], ‘The sounds of weapons, of threatening language, and of prepotent behavior on the international arena must cease. Enough of the illusion that the problemsof theworld canbe solvedby nuclear weapons. Bombs may kill the hungry, the sick, and the ignorant, but theycannot kill hunger, disease, and ignorance. Nor cantheykill therighteous rebellion of the peoples’.”

Qatar
His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin hamad AL-THANI, The Heir Apparent
September 20, 2006

“We would like to stress that the guarantee to permanent peace, security and stability in the region lies in making the Middle East a region free from all weapons of mass destruction without any exceptions.

Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Mr. Adnan TERZIĆ, Chairman of the Council of Ministers
September 20, 2006

"In cooperation with UN's international agency for atomic energy, Bosnia-Herzegovina is developing capacities for detection and prevention of illegal trade and proliferation of radioactive materials through our territory."

Kuwait
H.E. Sheikh Mohammad Al-Sabah Al-Salem AL-SABAH, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

Belgium
H.E. Mr. Karel DE GUCHT, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

"One year ago, our heads of State and Government, gathered in this Assembly, reaffirmed how much peace, security, development and human rights are interlinked. The mandate they entrusted us with is being progressively implemented . We have set up the Peacebuilding Commission and the Human Rights Council and have adopted the Counter-terrorism Strategy. We hope that their results will meet the high expectations.

During the past year we have witnessed, I am happy to say, a rebirth of multilateralism. What we, Member States of the United Nations, do together in a multilateral way will enjoy by definition a greater legitimacy. I have in mind in particular the recent conflict between Israel and Lebanon, a conflict in which the Security Council fully assumed its responsibilities. A conflict also in which the good offices of the Secretary General must eventually guarantee a lasting political settlement. Likewise it is worth noting that international dialogue, rather than the use of force, is again in the foreground of multilateral diplomacy. Take the case of Iran : we must must make every effort to resolve the difficult nuclear issue while fully respecting the principles of the UN Charter and the NPT. This being said, as far I as I am concerned, multilateralism is neither a dogma nor a simple profession of faith. Multilateralism is an instrument that shall be judged on its impact on world issues. In order to be effective, it must deliver results. Only by actions shall it legitimize its raison d'etre."

"I share the assessment by the Secretary General : in the already tense environment of the Middle East, this region can in no case afford a new major crisis. Given the general, and justified, suspicion arising from the Iranian nuclear programme, I appeal to the sense of responsibility of the authorities in Tehran to answer positively to the offers made to them. Iran is a great country, of ancient and prestigious civilization. This heritage, as well as its role in the region, must encourage it to promote peace and security and to rebuild confidence with its regional partners rather than isolating itself by useless provocations. Iran must take again its place in the community of nations and comply with the rules that are governing international relations. Iran has to comply with Resolution 1696."

“Following the adoption of the Security Council Resolution 1696 on 31 July 2006, and the subsequent response by the Iranian Authorities, it is our ferven hope that all parties to this issue, will be constructively engaged in seeking a lasting solution to avert possible economic and diplomatic sanctions, and to guarantee Iran’s peaceful nuclear programme.”

Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Robert FICO, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“We are also deeply concerned about the nuclear program of Iran and the proliferation risk it presents to the international peace and security. We urge the Iranian authorities to respond positively to the proposed package of incentives and to susped its uranium-enrichment activities. On our part, we are ready to continue the dialogue with Iran in a constructive and open fasion. However, Iran, like any other member of the UN, must comply with Security Council resolutiosn and all relevant decisions of the IAEA and fully co-operate with them. In case Iran will not do so, the Security Council will have to adopt appropriate measures under Article 41 of Chapter VII of the UN Charter.”

Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. BAN Ki-moon, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade
September 21, 2006

“Meanwhile, we must seek peaceful solutions to the outstanding challenges to the system, including the Iranian nuclear issue that is before the Security Council. It is not too late to work towards a negotiated solution on this issue with far-reaching implications. I would call for creative, constructive thinking on the part of all parties concerned, so as to resolve this issue within the framework of the NPT regime.

"As for the situation on the Korean peninsula, the nuclear and missile progras of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea constitute a serious challenge to the non-proliferation regime as well as to regional security. My government fully supports Security Council resoltuion 1695. WE urge the DPRK to refrain from any action that might aggravate the situation, and return to the Six Party Talks without precondition for a diplomatic resolution of the matter.”

Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Sergey V. LAVROV, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

“What is called for today – more proactive measures to prevent lethal weapons falling into the hands of non-state entities, and consistent implementation of Resolution 1540 and other counterterrorism resolutions of the United Nations Security Council. The Russian-American Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism approved by President Vladimir V. Putin and President George W. Bush in St. Petersburg last July should become an important instrument of preventing a linkage between WMD and terrorism. This initiative invites other interested states to act collectively.”

“In the area of strategic arms, the U.S.-Russian agreements play an enormously important role. Their significance goes far beyond the framework of bilateral relations given that virtually all members of the international community benefit from the strategic stability. We are supportive of a consistent development of the U.S.-Russian bilateral disarmament process. Closely related with this development are ABM relative issues, in particular within the context of the existing plans of the United States. Here one needs complete transparency and analysis of consequences for the strategic stability.”

"It is also our duty to keep the question of weapons of mass destruction and their proliferation at the top of the international agenda. We must work to achieve the universality of the NPT taking into account that, nearly thirty years after the establishment of the non-proliferation regime, and eleven years after the indefinite extension of the treaty, the international community is still far from implementing the international obligations assumed in it. We are still far from achieving the Treaty's universality and from reaching the desired balance between the three main pillars adopted by the international community with regards to nuclear disarmament, non proliferation and the right of all states, without exception to benefit from the peaceful uses of nuclear energy."

United Kingdom
H.E. The RT Honorable Mrs. Margaret BECKETT MP, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
September 22, 2006

"We must show a similar shared determination in urging the government of Iran to address international concerns over its nuclear ambitions and its support for terrorism. The proposals put forward by Britain, France and Germany, and China, Russia and the United States offer a path for the Iranian government to develop a more normal relationship with the rest of the world and give Iran's talented population the opportunities and prosperity that is their right - including if they wish a modem nuclear power industry. We want to be able to resume negotiations. Iran knows what's required, and that alternative is increasing isolation."

China
H.E. Mr. Li ZHAOXING, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"Over the recent period of time, the nuclear issue on the Korean peninsula, the Iranian nuclear issue and the Lebanese-Israeli conflict have flared up, adversely affecting regional and global stability and putting to test the wisdom, unity and patience of the international community."

"On the nuclear issue on the Korean peninsula, China is committed to maintaining peace and stability on the peninsula, making it free of nuclear weapons and promoting the Six-Party Talks. During the Security Council deliberations in July on the DPRK's missile tests and the related resolution, China made strenuous efforts to engage the parties concerned in an effort to uphold peace on the peninsula and in Northeast Asia, the unity and authority of the Security Council and the progress already made in the Six-Party Talks.

"Long-standing antagonism and mistrust between the parties concerned is the main cause for the current difficulty. All parties should be patient and pragmatic and act with vision to reduce differences and remove obstacles through dialogue. The Six-Party Talks remains an effective mechanism for enhancing understanding and trust and resolving the Korean nuclear issue.

"We hope the parties involved will be cool-headed and more flexible, expand common ground, meet each other half way and work together for the early resumption of the Six-Party Talks and progressive implementation of the Joint Statement. This is the only viable solution to the Korean nuclear issue.

"On the Iranian nuclear issue, China calls for upholding the integrity of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime and is opposed to the proliferation of nuclear weapons. It has worked for a peaceful resolution of the issue to promote peace and stability in the Middle East. At the same time, the lawful right of countries to the peaceful use of nuclear energy should be fully respected provided they fulfil their due international obligations.

"Diplomatic negotiation represents the best chance for resolving the Iranian nuclear issue and serves the interests of all parties. China hopes that the parties involved will exercise patience and restraint, continue to be flexible in approach, and stay committed to the correct course of pursuing peaceful resolution. China will continue to play a constructive role in working for an appropriate settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue."

Oman
H.E. Mr. Yousef Bin Alawi Bin ABDULLAH, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"My country supports the call for a review of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty to close the loopholes in this treaty and to preserve the right of the state parties to obtain nuclear technology for peaceful purposes."

"While we support the call to free the Middle East region from all weapons of mass destruction, we, at the same time, call upon all parties to the current talks on the Iranian nuclear issue to keep the doors of negotiations open based on the fact that direct dialogue is the best mean to reaching suitable compromise on pending issues."

Germany
H.E. Dr. Frank-Walter STEINMEIER, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"During the past few years, Germany, together with France and Britain and supported by the US, Russia and China, has been intensively seeking to find a solution to the conflict about Iran's nuclear programme.

"No-one wants to deny Iran the right to use nuclear energy peacefully. Nor is the objective of the diplomatic efforts to isolate Iran. On the contrary, we hope that Iran will become a reliable and responsible partner in the crisis-stricken Middle East.

That is why on 6 June we offered Iran a package aimed at far-reaching cooperation. This package includes proposals for closer diplomatic, economic and security cooperation. And it expressly acknowledges Iran's right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. However, the international community also rightly expects cooperation and transparency from Iran. If Iran were to prove that the IAEA's suspicions are unfounded and send a clear sign that it really does only intend to use it nuclear programme for peaceful purposes that could open the door to a development which benefits people in Iran and in the entire region.

"It is now up to the Government in Tehran to face up to its responsibility. The decision in favour of peace and stability in the entire Middle East requires courage. I call upon Iran to end the current phase of procrastination! Give a clear sign of confidence so that we can look to the future together and we can finally sit down at the negotiating table!
The resolution of the nuclear conflict with Iran is urgent. However, the challenges of the proliferation of nuclear weapons go far beyond that. We have to act now if we want to halt the erosion of the non-proliferation regime. The next attempt to implement the Non-Proliferation Treaty in full must not fail.

"Not only Iran but also other countries are thinking about developing enrichment technology. We have to develop new instruments if we want to prevent the resulting risks from materializing. I am therefore strongly in favor of not merely exchanging ideas on the multilateralization of the fuel cycle, on transferring responsibility for uranium enrichment to the international community but of further developing them into concrete options. I advocate that we put greater effort into finding solutions together with the IAEA."

Micronesia
H.E. Mr. Redley KILLION, Vice President
September 22, 2006

"Micronesia is concerned by the threats to regional stability and international peace and security posed by nuclear proliferation. We urge the international community to continue such effort in addressing this problem."

Bahrain
H.E. Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmed AL-KHALIFA, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"Within the framework of maintaining regional security in the Gulf region, we confirm that establishing friendly relations among its countries should be based on respect for the principles of sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, good neighborliness, non-interference in internal affairs, and peaceful settlement of disputes. This creates a positive atmosphere that helps address the issues in a spirit of conciliation, in accordance with international legitimacy, especially on the issue of using nuclear energy for peaceful objectives, in order not to threaten security, economic interests and the environment of the countries of the region. To support this atmosphere, we should work together to make the Middle East, including the Gulf region, free from weapons of mass destruction. At the same time, we confirm the right of states to nuclear energy for peaceful purposes in accordance with Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, and under the Safeguards Regime of the IAEA."

The Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia, signed on 8 September 2006 in Semipalatinsk, is a demonstration of political will of five Central Asian States - Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. The signing of that milestone instrument could become a catalyst for the process of enhancement of the NPT. We believe that tangible progress in that area is possible if all Member States comply with their obligations regarding nuclear disarmament and vertical and horizontal proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The Central Asian States are ready to continue consultations with the permanent members of the Security Council on the issue of that Treaty's entry into force. In our view, the States concerned should strictly comply with their commitment to a moratorium on nuclear test explosions and work to ensure the entry into force of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. All peaceful nuclear programmes should be carried out in a transparent manner, under the control of the International Atomic Energy Agency. It is a matter of great concern that the crisis has extended not only to strategic but also to conventional weapons.

Regrettably, Member States have so far failed to devise common approaches to the Programme of Action in this area. We have to step up efforts to tighten national export control mechanisms. I refer, first and foremost, to dual-use materials and technologies, as well as to missiles and means of delivery of weapons of mass destruction, with full and strict compliance with the provisions of a Security Council resolution adopted in 2004. The possibility of weapons of mass destruction falling into the hands of terrorists is a matter of grave concern. To prevent such a scenario, we have to push for the accession of all United Nations Member States to the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism."
"Leading the other post-Soviet countries in many areas, Kazakhstan has always assumed responsibility for the implementation of international initiatives, be it its decision to shut down the Semipalatinsk nuclear testing ground or to voluntarily renounce nuclear weapons or its initiatives to convene a regional security forum in Asia (CICA) or to hold a Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions or to host the first global conference on transit transport cooperation or to organize a session of the Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee away from Headquarters."

Saudi Arabia
His Royal Highness Prince Saud AL-FAISAL, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"It has long been acknowledged that the proliferation of nuclear weapons seriously undermines the security of all countries. Over time, a number of international treaties and conventions have produced bilateral and multilateral obligations, but such obligations are of no use if they are not fully observed and fully applied. We cannot ignore the serious threat to global peace and security which these weapons continue to pose--whether they are used in wars between states or they fall in the hands of terror groups."

"Effectively preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction requires abandoning double standards and emphasizing the importance of making the whole Middle East, including the Gulf region, free from nuclear weapons. Israel is the only country in the region which is known to possess weapons of mass destruction but is not subjected to any form of monitoring."

Nuclear Energy

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

“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.”

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

“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.”

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

“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.”

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

“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.”

Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Sergey V. LAVROV, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

“The growing significance of the factor of force in the world affairs that we are, unfortunately, witnessing, undermines the non-proliferation regimes. A feeling of predictability and stability in the area of security is becoming ever more acute. Against this background, an objectively growing interest of many states in nuclear energy may, as a result of the trend for global proliferation of sensitive technologies, give rise to concern. Apart from the current purposeful steps in search of negotiation solutions to individual problems, such as Iranian nuclear program, and the Korean Peninsula problem, there is a need for urgent international effort of the entire international community geared towards a systematic strengthening [of] non-proliferation regimes on a generally acceptable basis, while ensuring that the benefits of peaceful atomic energy [remains] legitimately accessible to all states. President Vladimir V. Putin’s initiative to establish Multilateral Centers for Nuclear Fuel Cycle Services, similar ideas of the IAEA executives, and proposals by the U.S. President George W. Bush running in the same vein have found support among the G8 leaders. We are confident that integration of such approaches and their practical implementations in cooperation with all countries, who have an interest in modern, safe nuclear energy, would allow it to resolve non-proliferation issues in a non-confrontational manner.

“Like in other areas, the obsession with sanctions applied without calculating their consequences might bring unpredictable results. It is absolutely necessary to eliminate the loopholes in the non-proliferation regimes, but this should be done through clear and non-discriminatory approaches without creating grounds for suspicions regarding existence of some hidden agenda.

Egypt
H.E. Mr. Ahmed ABOUL GHEIT, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

"It is also our duty to keep the question of weapons of mass destruction and their proliferation at the top of the international agenda. We must work to achieve the universality of the NPT taking into account that, nearly thirty years after the establishment of the non-proliferation regime, and eleven years after the indefinite extension of the treaty, the international community is still far from implementing the international obligations assumed in it. We are still far from achieving the Treaty's universality and from reaching the desired balance between the three main pillars adopted by the international community with regards to nuclear disarmament, non proliferation and the right of all states, without exception to benefit from the peaceful uses of nuclear energy."

United Kingdom
H.E. The RT Honorable Mrs. Margaret BECKETT MP, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
September 22, 2006

Bahrain
H.E. Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmed AL-KHALIFA, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

Nuclear energy/nuclear weapon free zone: "Within the framework of maintaining regional security in the Gulf region, we confirm that establishing friendly relations among its countries should be based on respect for the principles of sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, good neighborliness, non-interference in internal affairs, and peaceful settlement of disputes. This creates a positive atmosphere that helps address the issues in a spirit of conciliation, in accordance with international legitimacy, especially on the issue of using nuclear energy for peaceful objectives, in order not to threaten security, economic interests and the environment of the countries of the region. To support this atmosphere, we should work together to make the Middle East, including the Gulf region, free from weapons of mass destruction. At the same time, we confirm the right of states to nuclear energy for peaceful purposes in accordance with Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, and under the Safeguards Regime of the IAEA."

Terrorism

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

"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

"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."

"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

“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

“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.”

“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.”

“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.”

“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.”

“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.”

“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.”

“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

“. . . 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.”

“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

“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."

“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."

“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."

“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."

“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.”

“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.”

France
Mr Jacques Chirac, President
September 19, 2006

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

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

“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.”

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

" 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.”

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

“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.”

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

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

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

“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.”

“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.”

“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.”

“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.”

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

“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.”

“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.”

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

“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.”

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

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

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

"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

“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.”

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

"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."

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

“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

“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.”

"With regard to terrorism, I speak with personal experience in my own country. Exploiting minority concerns, which we are addressing politically, a ruthless terrorist outfit in Sri Lanka, the LTTE, has been terrorizing our people for over two decades. In an age when the world seeks dialogue and peace, the LTTE devotes its full force to violence, suicide bombings, massacre of civilians, indiscriminate armed assaults, and conscription of young children for war.”

“Our government firmly believes that terrorism cannot be eliminated through military means alone. We remain fully committed to talking with the LTTE either directly or through a facilitator. It is our hope that the LTTE will transform itself from a terrorist outfit to one that is committed to dialogue and democracy. Our government stands ready to respond to any display of goodwill and a move towards a non-violent approach.”

Maldives
H.E. Mr. Maumoon ABDUL GAYOOM, President
September 20, 2006

"The Maldives fully subscribes to the efforts made by the international community to combat terrorism. We are party to the major international conventions that have been formulated to defeat terrorism. Terrorism is an assault on the values of freedom and human solidarity. However, our efforts to combat the menace should avoid undermining the very values that we seek to protect. There is a resurgence of the vilification of Islam and Muslims. … Violence and killing are abhorrent to Islam."

Italy
H.E. Mr. Romano PRODI, President
September 20, 2006

Papua New Guinea
H.E. Sir Michael SOMARE, MP, Prime Minister
September 20, 2006

“Our world today is marked by an inequitable global trading order and a hostile security environment. Wanton globalization and unfettered trade liberalization are affecting many of us in ways that are detrimental to the livelihoods of our people. Unilateral actions by the big and powerful to resolve disputes are no longer incidental but the order of the day. We note the increasing incidence of human atrocities, genocides. wars, poverty, terrorism, emergence of HIV/AIDS and increase in malaria and TB. Our streets and communities are littered with small arms and light weapons. Drug and human smuggling and other illegal activities are on the rise. Environmental degradation and climate change continue unabated. We must confront these issues urgently. To complement efforts in other fora, Papua New Guinea with other countries of the Pacific Region have agreed to pool our limited resources under the Pacific Plan to address these issues.”

“Terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is a serious threat to international peace and security. It must be condemned irrespective of who perpetrates it. All countries and peoples of the world have a serious responsibility to stand united and fight this evil. However, Papua New Guinea is deeply concerned by the erosion of the international community's moral authority to address this issue. It is unhelpful to our credibility if certain of our members choose to address this issue in flagrant violation of international norms and universally agreed conventions. Like other cross border challenges, member States will require the support of the UN and development partners with capacity building and other necessary resources to effectively fight global terrorism.”

Cuba
H.E. Mr. Esteban Lazo HERNÁNDEZ, Vice-President
September 20, 2006

“In addition to this, the Summit [of the Non-Aligned Movement] clearly and firmly pronounced itself against terrorism, double standards in international relations, coercive unilateral measures against any nation, "regime change" policies and the failure of developed countries to fulfill their commitments in economic and social areas.”

Qatar
His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin hamad AL-THANI, The Heir Apparent
September 20, 2006

“We also stress the importance of resolving conflicts and disputes by peaceful means, and cooperation among all nations to end violence and combat terrorism.”

Argentina
H.E. Mr. Néstor Carlos KIRCHNER, President
September 20, 2006

"The annulment by congress of the laws that accorded impunity for crimes of state-sponsored terrorism, the ruling of their unconstitutionality and that of the pardons granted by the courts in our country, and the reopening of over a thousand court proceedings for crimes againast humanity –some of which have resulted in the conviction of torturers- constitute landmarks of such shift."

"We would like to firmly condemn the serious threat of global terrorism. Argentina conciders all acts of terrorism against innocent civilians are criminal and unjustifiable, and accepts no argument attempthing to justify atacks against the civil population.
…
We believe that, in order to face this criminal threat successfully, we must carry out a multilateral ad legitimate response that is sustained through time. Respect for human rights, international humanitarian law and refugee law is essential, and so are the international cooperation and legal assistance to effectively enforce the norms against terrorism. If, in order to face up to global terrorism, we resort to a global violation of human rights, the only winner in this fight shall be terrorism. We will only advance firmly in the fight against terrorism if we frame it within respect for local laws and international norms and conventions. No complication can be an excuse for not combating terrorism with legality. Peace is built and maintained by understanding the true concept of solidarity among nations, from a wider dimension than the purely militari or the predominantly unilateral. Nations big and small, rich and poor, will be exposed to a marked vulnerability if we do not understand that the fight against terrorism demans a multilateral, intelligent action sustained over time and firmly based in legitimacy, respect for fundamental rights, proportionality in the response and the support of international public opinion."

Zimbabwe
H.E. Mr. Robert Gabriel MUGABE, President
September 20, 2006

"While my Government applauds the United Nations' continuing efforts to elaborate a convention on terrorism, we urge Member States to guard against a situation where established international conventions are ignored, and resolutions of the General Assembly and other United Nations bodies on this issue are disregarded. In our attempt to deal with the scourge of terrorism, it is also necessary to address the underlying causes of this phenomenon. To demonstrate its commitment to fight terrorism, the Parliament of Zimbabwe has come up with the Suppression of Foreign and International Terrorism Bill that seeks to fight foreign and international terrorism, as well as mercenary activities."

Tanzania
H.E. Mr. Jakaya Mrisho KIKWETE, President
September 20, 2006

“Tanzania welcomes and applauds the adoption by the General Assembly of a Comprehensive Global Strategy to Counter Terrorism. It is our expectation that the differences which arose during the negotiations will not stand in the way of the strategy's s implementation. After experiencing a major terrorist attack on our soil in 1998, Tanzania has always repeated our resolve to cooperate with others to combat terrorism in all its manifestations. The threat of terrorism is global and complex; it demands a collective and adaptive strategy to contain it.”

Equatorial Guinea
H.E. Mr. Teodoro OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO, President
September 20, 2006

"We are not to be surprised then, Dear Sirs, of the phenomena of terrorism which threatens the world today, because, though their methods and destructive effects on humans are condemnable, it remains as the recourse of those oppressed, a reaction of those who oppose the present injustices denounced throughout the last quarter of a century."

Albania
H.E. Mr. Alfred MOISIU, President
September 20, 2006

"We have established relations of active cooperation and dialogue on the regional level with all the countries by remarkably influencing the strengthening of regional security and stability. Together with the countries of the region we have made an agenda of joint actions against terrorism, organized crime, distribution of arms and border managing which has an inter-border feature and we have also undertaken concrete initiatives to encourage the economic development of the region."

"The UN role continues to remain very impo rtant also in the war against terrorism, especially by securing an effective, global and intensive respons to this threat. We praise the recent consensual adoption of the global strategy against terrorism as we also assess that the adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism will mark a precious achievement made possible by the UN efforts against terrorism. Albania is collaborating very closely with all the UN bodies in the war against terrorism and the visits of the Monitoring Team founded in compliance to the Resolution 1267 of the Security Council and the visit of the Security Council Committee Against Terrorism founded in compliance to the resolution 1540 of the Security Council demonstrated that Albanian is fulfilling its obligations to prevent the activity and financing of terrorist groups also on the national level."

Sao Tome and Principe
H.E. Mr. Fradique Bandeira Melo DE MENEZES, President
September 20, 2006

"Madame President, we meet here today at a time of growing international tension, an increase in terrorism that attacks innocent civilians on every continent. We see unending conflicts, even genocide. Never have we needed the United Nations more than at this time when life as we know it on our planet is threatened by climate change. It is tragic that with all these challenges, the United Nations is often unable to act, because internal politics and a lack of resources constantly hamper the ability to respond as needed."

Malaysia
H.E. The Honourable Dato’ Seri Abdullah Ahmad BADAWI, Prime Minister
September 20, 2006

"The suppression of Palestine which is being allowed to fester, the invasion of Afghanistan, the conquest of Iraq and most recently, the unrestrained destruction of Lebanon have all been carried out in the name of the war against terrorism. The actions of Israel in the Middle East are being supported, either openly or tacitly, supposedly in defense of the Judeo-Christian tradition against the spread of radical militant Islam, thus legitimizing all of its actions, no matter how brutal. Even western commentators have conceded that Israel's latest assault against Lebanon has helped make what may once have been extremist opinions part of the Muslim mainstream. The Muslim world certainly sees all these as a complicity to humiliate Muslim countries and Muslim societies."

Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Mr. Adnan TERZIĆ, Chairman of the Council of Ministers
September 20, 2006

Croatia
H.E. Mr. Ivo SANADER, Prime Minister
September 20, 2006

"The significant increase of international terrorism has caused an ill atmosphere of mistrust, religious and cultural intolerances and grave infringements of human rights. These consequences are in time developing into their own separate and extremely dangerous problems that exponentially endanger already fragile international relations. The Republic of Croatia, as a member of the global Anti-terrorist Coalition, strongly condemns international terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and, having in mind the ever evolving threat of terrorism - especially WMD and cyber-terrorism - calls for even stronger global cooperation in the field of the suppression of this modern age scourge.

We must prove to our nations that we will stay firm and united against terrorism. In this light, a strong commitment towards the achievement of a global consensus on a definition of terrorism, and a final adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, is very much needed and would reaffirm the central role of the United Nations in the suppression of terrorism. It that respect, we welcome the UN Strategy on Counterterrorism launched yesterday and express our hope that all countries will implement it.

The Republic of Croatia has established very good cooperation with the United Nations, especially with the Security Council's Counterterrorism Committee and its Executive Directorate . Additionally, on - 15 and 16 May of this year, a Monitoring team for the implementation of Security Council resolution 1267 visited my country and met with representatives of all relevant government bodies involved in the suppression of terrorism. Year by year, we continue our great cooperation with the Terrorism Prevention Branch of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in Vienna, which resulted in a recently held National Expert Workshop on International Cooperation in Criminal Matters related to Terrorism, organized by our joint cooperation in June of this year in Valbandon, Croatia.

"Today, many ongoing regional crises continue to cause great humanitarian tragedies around the world, seriously destabilizing regional and global security. The arcs of instabilities are creating a network of fear and anger across many parts of the world. Terrorism is taking on new dimensions and forms. Weapons of mass destruction are yet another cause of grave concern. Economic imbalances and social impediments, from poverty to resources constraints, are becoming new sources of instability across the world. Religious divisions and misunderstandings add a new and dangerous dimension to insecurity in the world."

Kuwait
H.E. Sheikh Mohammad Al-Sabah Al-Salem AL-SABAH, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

"During the last few weeks, the brotherly Republic of Lebanon was subjected to a vicious Israeli aggression, which caused the death of hundreds of innocent civilians and injuring thousands others, more than 1 million people became refugees. Moreover, scores of homes, bridges and civilian installations were purposely targeted to destroy the infrastructre in a systematic practice of state terrorism, in flagrant violation of International Humanitarian Law."

Israel
H.E. Ms. Tzipi LIVNI, Vice Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

"The second principle for peace is drawn from the concept of living in peace and security. On the basis of this principle the international community has insisted that the State of Palestine that emerges next to Israel cannot be a tenor State. It is the last thing our troubled region needs. It is for this reason that the Road Map requires ail end to terror. It is for this reason that the international community has demanded that any Palestinian government fulfill three basic conditions : renounce terrorism, recognize Israel's right to exist, and accept existing Israeli-Palestinian agreements. These conditions are not an obstacle to peace or to the establishment of a responsible Palestinian state ; they are a crucial ingredient for their realization."

Belgium
H.E. Mr. Karel DE GUCHT, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

"One year ago, our heads of State and Government, gathered in this Assembly, reaffirmed how much peace, security, development and human rights are interlinked. The mandate they entrusted us with is being progressively implemented . We have set up the Peacebuilding Commission and the Human Rights Council and have adopted the Counter-terrorism Strategy. We hope that their results will meet the high expectations.

During the past year we have witnessed, I am happy to say, a rebirth of multilateralism. What we, Member States of the United Nations, do together in a multilateral way will enjoy by definition a greater legitimacy. I have in mind in particular the recent conflict between Israel and Lebanon, a conflict in which the Security Council fully assumed its responsibilities. A conflict also in which the good offices of the Secretary General must eventually guarantee a lasting political settlement. Likewise it is worth noting that international dialogue, rather than the use of force, is again in the foreground of multilateral diplomacy. Take the case of Iran : we must must make every effort to resolve the difficult nuclear issue while fully respecting the principles of the UN Charter and the NPT. This being said, as far I as I am concerned, multilateralism is neither a dogma nor a simple profession of faith. Multilateralism is an instrument that shall be judged on its impact on world issues. In order to be effective, it must deliver results. Only by actions shall it legitimize its raison d'etre."

Uganda
H.E. Mr. Sam KUTESA, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

"At the national level, the major threat to peace and security in Uganda has been the terrorist group of the Lord Resistance Army. As a terrorist group with no political agenda the LRA, for a number of years, has unleashed terror on the population of Northern and North East Uganda, killing and maiming people and abducting children for training into killers and also using them as sex slaves."

Serbia
H.E. Mr. Boris TADIĆ, President
September 21, 2006

“In this regional framework, we also wish to actively cooperate in the fight against organized crime, corruption and international terrorism. As a concrete contribution to this goal, at my initiative, a meeting of the Heads of State of Southeastern Europe will soon be held in Belgrade aimed at promoting communication and strengthening cooperation in the fight against these threats to life and prosperity for all of us.”

Colombia
H.E. Mr. Álvaro URIBE VÉLEZ, President
September 21, 2006

“Under democratic security, Colombia has elected mayors, governors and members of Congress of all tendencies. Security has contained terrorism and allowed the free expression of democracy.”

“There is still more to be done in security and a definitive peace is not yet within reach, but progress is undeniable. The effective protection of Colombians translates into the reduction in the number of homicides, kidnappings, terrorist acts, crimes and threats against journalists and trade union leaders. The totality of governors and majors exercise their functions in their own jurisdictions, overcoming the nightmare of exile they were subjected to as a result of terrorist
actions not countered by the State.”

“For us, organized violence under fictitious political pretexts is terrorism; and security is a path to peace. When a pluralist, vigorous and guarantee-granting democracy is present, armed actions against it are pure terrorism. To deny this would erase the difference between armed combat against dictatorships, which merited the recognition in other countries of insurgent groups, and the violent aggression suffered by our democracy, which is terrorism.”

Lebanon
H.E. General Emile LAHOUD, President
September 21, 2006

“Today I ask you to stand by my country, as that will be written down as a just and rightful stance. I also call upon you to differentiate between him who defends his country against Israeli aggression and occupation and strives to liberate his countrymen from decades of unlawful imprisonment AND those elements who perpetrate acts of wanton slaughter against their countrymen and others equally. May I remind you that Lebanon’s experience with the scourge of terror goes back a long way, and it took a very heavy toll on its armed forces.”

Macedonia
H.E. Mr. Branko CRVENKOVSKI, President
September 21, 2006

“Terrorism is not a new world issue, but has unfortunately became our tragic daily reality, thus rapidly gaining new and more devastating dimensions in the increasingly globalized world. We are all affected in one way or another—whether we speak about actual terrorist attacks or threats. The real question however is—can we, or should we the nations of the world continue to live in that kind of atmosphere, to live in fear, threatened? It would be a failure of humanity, of free spirit and democracy, of prosperity and mankind, if I may say, a failure of all of us here at the United Nations. Recently we have adopted the UN Comprehensive Counter-Terrorism Strategy. I believe it was high time that we adopted a unified position and Strategy, i.e. that all of us gave a strong international response. Comprehensive international cooperation and coordination against these scourge is equally important to the activities at the national and regional level. We need to have results. Sooner is better.”

“From the very beginning the Republic of Macedonia has been a part of the international antiterrorist coalitions in Iraq and Afghanistan, and has recently increased its contingents as part of the international forces. Peace and democracy building in these two countries remain one of the key challenges for the international community and the Iraqis and Afghans themselves. I would like to once again reiterate Macedonia’s support to their efforts to rebuild these countries and create better life for their people.”

Canada
H.E. The Right Honourable Stephen HARPER, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“The United Nations recognized shortly after the attacks of September 11th, 2001, that the Taliban regime, by its promotion of terrorism, was a threat to international peace and security. Kofi Annan, our distinguished Secretary General, whom we thank for his ten years of loyal service, summed up in a few words the reason why we must combat terrorism. ‘Terrorism,’ he said, ‘is a direct attack on the core values the United Nations stands for: the rule of law, the protection of civilians, mutual respect between people of different faiths and cultures, and peaceful resolution of conflict’. That is why we in the United Nations have the responsibility to defeat terrorism. That is why, with unity and determination, the United Nations undertook its responsibility and its role in Afghanistan. And that is why Canada, which lost 24 of its own citizens on 9-11, answered the call.”

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
H.E. Dr. The Honourable Ralph GONSALVES, Prime Minister, Minister for Finance, Planning, Economic Development, Labour, Information, Grenadines and Legal Affairs
September 21, 2006

“Madam President, modern terrorism is a barbarism out of sync with civilized life. It affects adversely not only powerful nations but developing nations in Asia, Africa, Latin American and the Caribbean. This evil of terrorism, including state-sponsored terrorism, must be fought relentlessly. It must be given no space to thrive. At the same time, terrorism must be attacked sensibly and not in a counter-productive way. Too many innocent lives have been lost through terrorist acts. St Vincent and the Grenadines pledges itself to continue to work resolutely and fearlessly, without hypocrisy, with all nations, and the United Nations, to eliminate this dastardly scourge and its causes.”

Andorra
H.E. Mr. Albert PINTAT, Head of Government
September 21, 2006

“The fall of the Twin Towers, the wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Lebanon and the terrorist attacks in London and Madrid have shaken the foundations of the secular state. These events have been said to represent a “clash of civilizations,” but I reject the reductive, indeed misleading division between North and South, East and West, Christians and Muslims."

Lesotho
H. E. The Right Honourable Pakalitha Bethuel MOSISILI, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

Samoa
H.E. Mr. Tuilaepa Sailele MALIELEGAOI, Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade
September 21, 2006

“The successful resolution of [global concerns such as] climate change, epidemics, humanitarian concerns, conflict containment, security concerns, and terrorism . . . requires collective and concerted effort of the whole United Nations membership because no one country or group of countries is capable of tackling them alone.”

“Terrorism, in its various forms and manifestations, is responsible for the horror and fear that has gripped the world’s attention in recent years. No country is immune from the reaches of terrorism, and we are all affected in varying degrees.

“We must continue to be resolute in our resolve. Let us reiterate in the strongest terms possible that terrorist acts committed under whatever pretext or purpose can never be justified as morally acceptable. Equally, countering terrorism does not confer immunity from the rule of law, nor the abandonment of the principles of a civilized society.

“The unanimous adoption of a UN Global Counter-terrorism Strategy two weeks ago was both a condemnation of terrorism in all its forms, and a commitment by member states to take concrete preventative measures, collectively and individually. The work ahead is to turn commitment into implementation.”

Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Robert FICO, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

“We condemnn all terrorist actions and provocations that have repeatedly led to resumptions of hostilities or further escalations of the conflicts. In this respect, we call on all parties to denounce violence and terrorism and refrain from them.”

Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. BAN Ki-moon, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade
September 21, 2006

“Since the terrorist attacks of 9/11, the UN has played an increasingly indespensible part in the international community’s counter-terrorism efforts. Still, agreement on a comprehensive convention on international terrorism remains elusive. But we must continue to try. In the meantime, the global counter-terrorism strategy, adopted at the end of the 60th Assembly, will guide our collective efforts to free the world from the scourge of terrorism.”

Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Sergey V. LAVROV, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

“Collective efforts are also needed to further develop the international law, primarily within the context of countering new threas. The UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy recently adopted by consensus is an important contribution in terms of strengthening the legal basis for the anti-terrorist coaltion and ensuring a comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism. It is not only about countering all manifestations and ideology of terrorism, it is also about removing problems that serve as its nutrient medium. Next in the pipeline is agreement on a Comprehensive Anti-terrorism Convention.

“It is necessary to secure the achievements by practical deeds. In the course of Russia’s presidency in the G8 the International “Moscow-1 – Paris-2” Conference was held where additional measures were approved aimed at mobilizing global community to counter the terrorism-related drug threat originating from Afghanistan. Another international forum to be held in Moscow next November will focus on developing modalities for government-to-business partnership in countering terrorism.

“What is called for today – more proactive measures to prevent lethal weapons falling into the hands of non-state entities, and consistent implementation of Resolution 1540 and other counterterrorism resolutions of the United Nations Security Council. The Russian-American Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism approved by President Vladimir V. Putin and President George W. Bush in St. Petersburg last July should become an important instrument of preventing a linkage between WMD and terrorism. This initiative invites other interested states to act collectively.”

Netherlands
H.E. Dr. Bernard R. BOT, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

“The threat of terrorism has not subsided. To fully understand the nature of the challenge we face, we have to ask ourselves what terrorists are aiming for. They aspire to undermine a society based on democracy, fundamental freedoms, human rights and the quest for progress. In their view there is no place for the principles and tenets of our free society. Instead, they try, by means of terror and violence to impose their views of the world on others.

“As to the means used by terrorists, there can be no doubt that large-scale and systematic terrorist acts qualify as crimes against humanity under international law. While civilized societies uphold international legal and moral standards in defending themselves, terrorists completely reject the central principles of international law.

“Our campaign against this threat must be fought with great determination by all of us. Indiscriminate violence must be countered by the collective will to defend our values, in order to protect our civilization and human dignity.”

“Anti-terrorism measures can only be effective if adopted within the context of the human rights commitments we have undertaken. Ultimately, our defence should not come at the expensve of the very values upon which our societies are founded. Our citizens must be able to distinguish between the societies in which they lead productive lives, and the terrorist movements for whom human life has little value.

“I am happy with the agreement we reached on the UN strategy on counter-terrorism. Now, we must see to its implementation. It is also in our collective interest to conclude a terrorism convention as well.”

Australia
H.E. The Honorable Alexander DOWNER MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006
“Afghanistan represents a fundamental test for each of us. If we are not resolute and steadfast in supporting Afghanistan against the scourge of terrorism, if we are not prepared collectively to stand up against the extremists, we will deliver to the coming generations a weaker international system and a far less secure and stable world.

“The extremists have chosen to make Iraq a battleground. Osama bin Laden has said that Iraq is “for you or for us to win”. We know what will come of Iraq if it is won by the extremists. As in Afghanistan, we must all commit to securing its future. Iraq is not America’s burden alone and Afghanistan is not NATO’s burden alone, because if terrorism prevailed, the consequences would be catastrophic for each of us, wherever we may live.

“This struggle will be protracted. Our challenge is not just to keep our citizens safe from terrorist attack, it is also to defeat an idealogy that allows for no ideas or belief systems other than its own.

“I welcome recent agreement on the UN global strategy to counter terrorism, but am disappointed that the strategy’s illustrative list of conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism did not include extremist idealogies.

“And we need to do much more. States should conclude a comprehensive convention on international terrorism. This would demonstrate an unambiguous commitment, ensuring all terrorist acts are criminalised in international law. It is disappointing that the UN still cannot agree on the scope of such a convention.”

“More disturbingly, some contries continue to sponsor terrorist groups to promote their own political agendas. In the Middle East, it is essential that all countries, including Iran and Syria, use their influence over organizations such as Hezbollah to stop terrorist assaults, includingn those directed at the state of Israel. Any viable resolution of the conflict must include Hezbollah’s disarmament, its renunciation of violence and a recognition of Israel’s right to exist in peace.”

“In Australia’s region, practical and effective cooperation has exemplified the counter-terrorism response. A regional training centre jointly established by Australia and Indonesia is helping South East Asian law enforcement agencies develop the capabilities they need to destroy terrorist networks.”

Austria
Her Excellency Ms. Ursula PLASSNIK, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

“On Tuesday, we launched the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy with a clear message: the international community is united against this scourge of humanity. We will not tolerate terrorism in any of its forms and manifestations. And we will redouble our efforts to dry up the breeding grounds from which terrorism feeds itself.”

Spain
H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel MORATINOS, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
September 21, 2006

“Political responsibility demands a solution from us for pressing and global phenomena, such as security and terrorism, the fight against hunger and poverty, and the management of migration flows. The world, undert the coordination of the United Nations, must promote sustainable development, security and human rights. We will not have security without development. There will be no development without security, and we will not reach these objectives if human rights are not respected.

“We cannot accept terrorism, no matter its origin. Its acceptance would transform it into terror and would provoke a spiral of fear in which liberties would suffer. We must remain vigilant against terrorism. Likewise, we cann allow liberties to deteriorate.

“The Government of Spain is satisfied with the adoption of the Global Strategy against Terrorism, which does not forget victims and their families."

Egypt
H.E. Mr. Ahmed ABOUL GHEIT, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

"Notwithstanding the increase in the number of victims of terrorist operations, there is an increased tendency to deal with terrorism with military force alone, while ignoring its root causes. Some have made it their mission to rid the world of the evils of terrorism as they define it. They ignore the international collective work to conclude a comprehensive convention on terrorism and to implement effectively the General Assembly Counter Terrorism Strategy in a manner that strikes a balance between the respective roles of the General Assembly and the Security Council."

"We must accelerate the implementation of the Comprehensive Counter-terrorism Strategy which we adopted at a high level meeting the day before yesterday. We must focus on strengthening the General Assembly which has been and will continue to be the larger forum to deal effectively with the root causes fo terrorism. IN doing so, we must be fully aware that democracy in international relations, the observance of the concepts of justice, equality and ending occupation, as well as upholding the right of self determination, are the most effective means to face the extremist thought that lies behind the dastardly acts of terrorism."

Angola
H.E. Dr. João Bernardo de MIRANDA, Minister of External Affairs
September 21, 2006

"In spite of political or ideological differences, the international community has demonstrated firmness and unity in the fight against acts of terror. We are of the view that this form of collective action must continue to be the most appropriate road to work with the threats to international security, including terrorism."

Palestine
H.E. President Mahmoud ABBAS, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization and President of the Palestinian National Authority
September 21, 2006

Georgia
H.E. Mr. Mikheil SAAKASHVILI, President
September 22, 2006

"To protect our achievements and consolidate gains for the next generation, we understand that full engagement means facing and addressing today's common threats and challenges. And this we are doing actively, alongside our friends, partners and allies in places like Iraq, Afghanistan and Kosovo where our troops help support international efforts to defeat terrorism and build lasting peace and democracy. because of this commitment we will continue to actively pursue our membership in NATO and welcome the most recent step forward, when just yesterday Georgia was invited to join Intensified Dialogue."

Nauru
H.E. The Honourable Ludwig SCOTTY MP, President
September 22, 2006

"...we continue to witness major upheavals: conflicts, explosions of violence, natural disasters, terrorism, and the giants we have yet to conquer - poverty, disease and human and environmental degradation. We must assure the people of the world that we are committed to finding lasting solutions to global problems while upholding the principles of the United Nations with full respect for human rights."

Iraq
H.E. Mr. Jalal TALABANI, President
September 22, 2006

"The ongoing crises, the outbreaks of war in our region impose an enormous responsibility on the Internation Community and states of the region itself to reach a permanent and just peace that rids the area and humanity from the dangers of wars, bloody conflicts and terrorism. ... The stability of the Middle East is embodied in the collaboration of efforts and the will of neighboring countries, and in their serious resolve to defeat terrorism, eliminate its bases and desiccate its sources. Limiting the global war on terrorism to the sole use of military means is not sufficient to defeat terrorism, hence, we need to explore and adopt political, economic and other means and tools to strengthen the elements of victory in this war. We deem it beneficial in this context to look at UN General Assembly Order 10407 issued in the 60th session of the General Assembly. it calls on the governments, the UN and civil society organizations to develop their efforts in this direction and work on spreading an environment of peace and condemnation of violence. It also calls for the development of tools that expand the circle of dialogue between the civilizations on religious, popular and civil society levels. "

What has been stated above supports Iraq's vision in the importance of creating a Middle East free of weapons of mass destruction, especially nuclear weapons - similar to the African and Latin American continents. This is provided that the countries' rights are safeguarded to develop technical capabilities for scientific and peaceful use of nuclear energy in order to achieve the goals of a sustainable development. In this regard, I would like to emphasize that the new Iraq is committed, pursuant to its permanent Constitution and its supreme national interests, not to produce these weapons. We emphasize from this responsible international platform that Iraq is devoid of any type of weapons of mass destruction, as confirmed in the reports of the last UN team. Taking this fact into account and respecting our country's interest is important for us. We urge the International Security Council to dissolve UNMOVIC and decommission it or transform it into an international commission or institution connected to the UN and funded in the organization's general budget.

Great global objectives can only be achieved by uniting the efforts and activating the good wills in service of humanity as a whole. The UN took upon itself to play a constructive role in building a global environment suitable for world peace and security. International changes impose on us keeping up with the advancement in all fields in order to enable the UN to carry out its functions. This is done by better employing the resources and capabilities in service of the people of the world and in a manner that consolidates its role in maintaining world peace and security, respecting equality between all countries and their right in adopting the directions and policies, and embracing the decisions that concern the international community,"

"...we hope from the Arab and regional parties and from the neighboring countries, in particular, to interact with this will and halt any activity or support or salutation by any means for the forces of terrorism, "Takfir" and the remnants of the dictatorial fascist gang. And also to take the necessary measures to close its borders in the face of the infiltrators. We declare from this platform our eagerness for the security and safety of our neighbors and the principal non-intervention in their internal affairs. This is in order to avoid turning our land into bases for activities against them.

The ferocity of the terrorist attack that targets our people and country will not dissuade us from working persistently and with and unfailing will to defeat it. In that we shall depend on our people's awareness and its political forces, as well as our military and security capabilities which are being developed and consolidated visibly in a number of Iraq's governorates where the tide of the terrorism is receding.

[the presence of the coalition forces is] essential for us in the present circumstances while accomplishing the mission of building our armed forces that are capable of ending terrorism and maintaining stability and security. Only then will it be possible to talk about a timetable for the withdrawal of the Multinational forces from Iraq. We here renew our gratitude for these forces that took part in liberating our country from the worst dictatorship known in history. We specifically thank President George W Bush for his leadership of the campaign to liberate Iraq from tyranny and opening the doors for a new, democratic, pluralistic and federal Iraq that is at peace with itself and the world. This historic mission has served the people of Iraq and peace and security in the region."

Mauritius
H.E. The Honourable Dr. Navinchandra RAMGOOLAM, Prime Minister
September 22, 2006

"Terrorism continues to be a major disruptive phenomenon for peace and development. The recent adoption of the United Nations global Counter-Terrorism strategy sends a clear message that terrorism is unacceptable no matter who commits it, no matter where is takes place and no matter what the reason. Mauritius unreservedly condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. But let us not delude ourselves into thinking that we can address the scourge of terrorism without addressing the root cause of terrorism"

Bhutan
H.E. Mr. Lyonpo Khandu WANGCHUK, Prime Minister and Leader of the Bhutanese Delegation
September 22, 2006

Terrorism continues to threaten peace, security and development in many parts of the world. The recent train bombings in Mumbai and the plot to blow up transatlantic aircrafts uncovered in London last August, remind us of the need to take strong measures against international terrorism. In this regard, my delegation welcomes the adoption by the 50th session of the General Assembly the United Nations Global Counterterrorism Strategy. The next important steps are to implement the strategy and renew efforts to conclude a comprehensive convention on international terrorism.

Palau
H.E. The Honorable Mr. Elias Camsek CHIN, Vice President
September 22, 2006

Terrorism: "Let us not forget the continuing threat of terrorism. We recognize that terrorism anywhere is a threat to people everywhere. And, we have looked for assistance to improve our anti-terrorism capacity. Palau has met and worked with the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate to advance our requests for assistance, particularly in the area of combatting money laundering and terrorism financing. Unfortunately, the efforts of the Directorate have been insufficient. Our hope is that during this 61st session of the General Assembly, the United Nations will be able to help smaller countries in addressing this threat."

China
H.E. Mr. Li ZHAOXING, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"The [Human Rights] Council should give greater attention to massive and gross violations of human rights caused by armed conflicts and support the international community in its efforts to prevent conflicts, rebuild peace and combat terrorism in all forms and manifestations."

Denmark
H.E. Dr. Per Stig MØLLER, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"The most serious danger of globalization is the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The Security Council reacted in unity to deplore the launch of several missiles by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea action on the 4th of July. We call on Pyongyang to return to the six party talks. Iran has faded to respond to the demands from the Security Council. We call on Teheran to suspend enrichment activities and accept negotiations on the generous package. Weapons of mass destruction and terrorism represent a deadly combination. Terrorism is already in itself one of the major threats to international peace and stability. We all remember the tragedies here in the United States five years ago, and the terrorist attacks in London, Madrid, Amman, Ball, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkey. I am very pleased that the UN Global Counter Terrorism Strategy has now been adopted by the General Assembly. It brings renewed hope that we may also conclude the negotiations on the Comprehensive Convention this year. I call upon all States to seriously attempt to bridge the different views on the Convention. As Chairman of the Counter Terrorism Committee under the Security Council, Denmark is working for a strengthening of the international fight against terrorism through an improved cooperation between the Council and the Member States."

"We wish to see a stronger role for the UN in Iraq in order to contribute to a peaceful and
democratic development. A necessary precondition for improving the situation is better living conditions for all in Iraq. Needless to say, it is our common interest to assist the Iraqi people in their struggle to reform and build their country. It must not fall victim to sectarianism and terrorism. If this happens the whole region will become destabilized."

Oman
H.E. Mr. Yousef Bin Alawi Bin ABDULLAH, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

Germany
H.E. Dr. Frank-Walter STEINMEIER, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"The conflicts in the Middle East, in Afghanistan, in the Western Balkans, in the Sudan, with Iran, as well as the fight against international terrorism have one thing in common: in none of these cases is the West taking a hostile stance against Islam. Nor do they involve a clash of civilizations."

Liechtenstein
H.E. Mrs. Rita KIEBER-BECK, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"The international fight against terrorism poses an particularly complex challenge in the area of rule of law. First, we must complement the existing international legal framework by adopting a comprehensie convention against terrorism. WE have put forward our ideas in this respect and hope that they can help find the agreement which is long overdue. Second, it must be clear that the fight against terrorism and the observance of human rights and international humanitarian law are complementary and mutually reinforcing. Human rights are at the core of the value system of the international community, as we all recognized at the Summit last year. Curtailing them in the name of the fight against terrorism would therefore play into the hands of terrorists who fight this very system with fanatic zeal. Las, but not least, the United Nations and the Security Council in particular must lead by example in upholding due process and the rights of individuals."

Solomon Islands
H.E. The Honorable Mr. Manesseh SOGAVARE, Prime Minister
September 22, 2006

"On terrorism, Solomon Islands once again reiterate its condemnation of all forms of terrorism in whatever form and manifestation, wherever and whenever it may occur. Recent attacks in India and in various parts of the world underscore the fact that terrorism remains a threat to all. Solomon Islands look forward to an early conclusion of the comprehensive Terrorism Convention and is pleased that talks between the UN Counter Terrorism Committee and member states including the Pacific region has began. It is our hope, the consultation will address the gaps within national mechanisms and where possible have a regional approach to the issues. I am pleased to report that with the assistance of New Zealand, Solomon Islands are expected to fulfill some of its Counter Terrorism Reporting Obligations during the course of 2007."

"Terrorism affects all countries big and small, rich and poor. Micronesia condemns, in the strongest sense, terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The taking of innocent life is unambiguously unjustifiable, regardless of one's grievances.

"We therefore renew our call on the United Nations to do everything in its power to prevent terrorism and to mitigate its root causes. While we are doing our best to uphold our responsibilities and obligations under the United Nations Counter Terrorism resolutions, we need the assistance of the international community to better implement and carry on the fight against this scourge."

"Building on this momentum, we also hope that the conflict between Israel and Palestine will be resolved. The people of Israel have the right to live within secured, recognized borders free from fear of terrorism. The Palestinian people have the right to have their own state and to co-exist peacefully with their neighbors."

Turkey
H. E. Mr. Abdullah GÜL, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"Throughout last year, terrorism continued to claim innocent lives. There is a growing realism that no degree of leniency can be sustained towards acts of terror. There is no room for double standards, and we can make no distinction between terrorists. At the same time, we must always keep in mind that terrorism, as an age-old method of coercion, has no deeper links to any culture or religion. Hence, we should be cautious not to associate any fate with terrorism."

Bahrain
H.E. Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmed AL-KHALIFA, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"We, in the Kingdom of Bahrain, still view the phenomenon of terrorism and terrorist acts as the most dangerous challenge threatening international peace and security. There must be greater efforts exerted by the international community, and more coordination on all levels, to confront this scourge. The Kingdom of Bahrain commends the United Nations' efforts to fight terrorism. The Secretary-General's Report issued last April entitled: "Uniting Against Terrorism: Recommendations for a Global Counter Terrorism Strategy" contains many constructive elements that we embrace, as along with other points that need further examination and discussion. It is important that any counter-terrorism strategy does not infringe on human rights or fundamental freedoms, and comply with international law. One of the positive aspects of this Report is its call to address the issues that are exploited by terrorists, and to study the motives behind terrorism. The Kingdom of Bahrain has continued its efforts in this field. In fact, it has already signed eleven of the twelve international agreements on terrorism and continues to host the Middle East North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) established in November 2004 to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. In addition, Bahrain continuously coordinates efforts with its brotherly neighbors of the GCC pursuant to the GCC Counter-Terrorism Agreement adopted in May 2004."

"The axis of development in developing countries is the inauguration of political reforms, economic liberalisation and social modernisation. This is what the Kingdom of Bahrain has confirmed in its reform process led, for several years, by His Majesty King Hamad Bin Isa Al-Khalifa, the beloved King of the country, in order to strengthen democracy, human rights, and economic growth. The national gains multiplied and the people's participation in the political, economic and social fields has been enhanced. This has been reflected in the following areas:
...
Ratification of the Arab Human Rights Convention, passing of the counter-terrorism law and accession to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights."

New Zealand
Mr. Winston PETERS, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"The welcome adoption of a counter-terrorism strategy reminds us of the efforts we must continue to make at regional and national levels."

Singapore
H.E. Mr. George YEO, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"All over the world today, regional initiatives are proliferating. Many overlap. Some are modest in their objectives, providing forums for public and private sector leaders to meet and consult. Others are more ambitious, creating regional free trade areas, or fostering joint efforts against problems like drug trafficking and terrorism. Many of these regional initiatives are open and inclusive, and should be encouraged. Those which are superfluous will gradually wither away. Some can make significant contributions to global governance and reduce the burdens borne by the major powers. International organizations like the UN,
WTO, WHO, IAEA and UNEP should work with them, strengthen their capabilities and encourage mutual learning. They create a habit of cooperation among neighboring countries and reduce misunderstanding."

"The Middle East is going through the throes of change. In Palestine, there is no escaping a two-state solution. However, defining the precise boundaries of that solution is a grinding process which will take time. No one can achieve all his demands; no party can insist on absolute security. Between Sunnis and Shiites in Lebanon, Iraq and elsewhere in the region, a new balance is being established. This will also take time. In many countries, there is tension between those who are impatient for change and those who believe that discontinuity will lead to chaos and anarchy. For as long as there is more despair than hope, terrorist organizations will be able to find fresh recruits. What happens in the Middle East affects the entire world. No country is insulated, if nothing else, from the terrorist threat and high energy prices."

Philippines
H.E. Mr. Alberto Gatmaitan ROMULO, Secretary for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"[Hope remains] Even in the face of the continuing threats to the peace and security of mankind from terrorism and the proliferation of nuclear weapons."

"Our own experience as a country is convincing proof of the efficacy of collective action in fighting terrorism. Working closely with our neighbors and others, we are ridding our country of terrorists.

"The recent adoption of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy will help strike another blow against terrorists. I commend the Ambassadors of Spain and Singapore for having successfully steered the negotiations on this strategy."

Romania
H.E. Mr. Mihai Răzvan UNGUREANU, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"At the same time, we have to continue to fight terrorism, individually and collectively, so as to eliminate it as a threat to the life of innocent people and to the daily operation of our societies. To succeed, the international community has to identify correctly and overcome the factors that favour terrorism. Romania has engaged firmly in the fight against terrorist threats, both by participating in the efforts of the international community as well as those undertaken at regional and sub-regional organizations.

"Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction has emerged as a major threat to global security and international stability. We should never underestimate any possible prospects that those weapons are used in terrorist activities. We stand for new international efforts aimed at strengthening the existing international regimes, ensuring full and unconditional implementation of obligations undertaken by the States Parties and promoting the universalisation of multilateral treaties and agreements in the field of disarmament and non-proliferation."

Morocco
H.E. Mr. Mohamed BENAISSA, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
September 22, 2006

"The development and implementation of clear strategies and tools to deal efficiently with global challenges and problems such as organized crime, international terrorism and illegal migration that have recently surfaced, and to provide cooperative frameworks for lasting solutions. Tackling such problems, eradicating their deep causes and limiting their social and political impact require solidarity, a multi-faceted and global approach."

Iran's nuclear program

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

"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.”

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

“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

“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.”

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

Italy
H.E. Mr. Romano PRODI, President
September 20, 2006

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

Kuwait
H.E. Sheikh Mohammad Al-Sabah Al-Salem AL-SABAH, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

Take the case of Iran : we must must make every effort to resolve the difficult nuclear issue while fully respecting the principles of the UN Charter and the NPT. This being said, as far I as I am concerned, multilateralism is neither a dogma nor a simple profession of faith. Multilateralism is an instrument that shall be judged on its impact on world issues. In order to be effective, it must deliver results. Only by actions shall it legitimize its raison d'etre."

"I share the assessment by the Secretary General : in the already tense environment of the Middle East, this region can in no case afford a new major crisis. Given the general, and justified, suspicion arising from the Iranian nuclear programme, I appeal to the sense of responsibility of the authorities in Tehran to answer positively to the offers made to them. Iran is a great country, of ancient and prestigious civilization. This heritage, as well as its role in the region, must encourage it to promote peace and security and to rebuild confidence with its regional partners rather than isolating itself by useless provocations. Iran must take again its place in the community of nations and comply with the rules that are governing international relations. Iran has to comply with Resolution 1696."

Lesotho
H. E. The Right Honourable Pakalitha Bethuel MOSISILI, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Robert FICO, Prime Minister
September 21, 2006

Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. BAN Ki-moon, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade
September 21, 2006

“Meanwhile, we must seek peaceful solutions to the outstanding challenges to the system, including the Iranian nuclear issue that is before the Security Council. It is not too late to work towards a negotiated solution on this issue with far-reaching implications. I would call for creative, constructive thinking on the part of all parties concerned, so as to resolve this issue within the framework of the NPT regime.

United Kingdom
H.E. The RT Honorable Mrs. Margaret BECKETT MP, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
September 22, 2006

"On the Iranian nuclear issue, China calls for upholding the integrity of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime and is opposed to the proliferation of nuclear weapons. It has worked for a peaceful resolution of the issue to promote peace and stability in the Middle East. At the same time, the lawful right of countries to the peaceful use of nuclear energy should be fully respected provided they fulfill their due international obligations.

"Diplomatic negotiation represents the best chance for resolving the Iranian nuclear issue and serves the interests of all parties. China hopes that the parties involved will exercise patience and restraint continue to be flexible in approach, and stay committed to the correct course of pursuing peaceful resolution. China will continue to play a constructive role in working for an appropriate settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue."

Oman
H.E. Mr. Yousef Bin Alawi Bin ABDULLAH, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"While we support the call to free the Middle East region from all weapons of mass destruction, we, at the same time, call upon all parties to the current talks on the Iranian nuclear issue to keep the doors of negotiations open based on the fact that direct dialogue is the best mean to reaching suitable compromise on pending issues."

Germany
H.E. Dr. Frank-Walter STEINMEIER, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

Iran: "During the past few years, Germany, together with France and Britain and supported by the US, Russia and China, has been intensively seeking to find a solution to the conflict about Iran's nuclear programme.

"No-one wants to deny Iran the right to use nuclear energy peacefully. Nor is the objective of the diplomatic efforts to isolate Iran. On the contrary, we hope that Iran will become a reliable and responsible partner in the crisis-stricken Middle East.

That is why on 6 June we offered Iran a package aimed at far-reaching cooperation. This package includes proposals for closer diplomatic, economic and security cooperation. And it expressly acknowledges Iran's right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. However, the international community also rightly expects cooperation and transparency from Iran. If Iran were to prove that the IAEA's suspicions are unfounded and send a clear sign that it really does only intend to use it nuclear programme for peaceful purposes that could open the door to a development which benefits people in Iran and in the entire region.

"It is now up to the Government in Tehran to face up to its responsibility. The decision in favor of peace and stability in the entire Middle East requires courage. I call upon Iran to end the current phase of procrastination! Give a clear sign of confidence so that we can look to the future together and we can finally sit down at the negotiating table!
The resolution of the nuclear conflict with Iran is urgent. However, the challenges of the proliferation of nuclear weapons go far beyond that. We have to act now if we want to halt the erosion of the non-proliferation regime. The next attempt to implement the Non-Proliferation Treaty in full must not fail.

"Not only Iran but also other countries are thinking about developing enrichment technology. We have to develop new instruments if we want to prevent the resulting risks from materializing. I am therefore strongly in favor of not merely exchanging ideas on the multilateralization of the fuel cycle, on transferring responsibility for uranium enrichment to the international community but of further developing them into concrete options. I advocate that we put greater effort into finding solutions together with the IAEA."

Denmark
H.E. Dr. Per Stig MØLLER, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"Iran has faded to respond to the demands from the Security Council. We call on Teheran to suspend enrichment activities and accept negotiations on the generous package."

North Korea

Finland (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

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.

Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. BAN Ki-moon, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade
September 21, 2006

"As for the situation on the Korean peninsula, the nuclear and missile progras of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea constitute a serious challenge to the non-proliferation regime as well as to regional security. My government fully supports Security Council resolution 1695. WE urge the DPRK to refrain from any action that might aggravate the situation, and return to the Six Party Talks without precondition for a diplomatic resolution of the matter.”

Nuclear Weapon Free Zones

Qatar
His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin hamad AL-THANI, The Heir Apparent
September 20, 2006

“We would like to stress that the guarantee to permanent peace, security and stability in the region lies in making the Middle East a region free from all weapons of mass destruction without any exceptions.”

Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Sergey V. LAVROV, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

“It is necessary to revitalize also multilateral disarmament avenues."
"Nuclear weapon-free zones play an important role. We welcome the creation of such a zone in Central Asia.”

Iraq
H.E. Mr. Jalal TALABANI, President
September 22, 2006

"What has been stated above supports Iraq's vision in the importance of creating a Middle East free of weapons of mass destruction, especially nuclear weapons - similar to the African and Latin American continents. This is provided that the countries' rights are safeguarded to develop technical capabilities for scientific and peaceful use of nuclear energy in order to achieve the goals of a sustainable development. In this regard, I would like to emphasize that the new Iraq is committed, pursuant to its permanent Constitution and its supreme national interests, not to produce these weapons. We emphasize from this responsible international platform that Iraq is devoid of any type of weapons of mass destruction, as confirmed in the reports of the last UN team. Taking this fact into account and respecting our country's interest is important for us. We urge the International Security Council to dissolve UNMOVIC and decommission it or transform it into an international commission or institution connected to the UN and funded in the organization's general budget."

Bahrain
H.E. Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmed AL-KHALIFA, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

" we should work together to make the Middle East, including the Gulf region, free from weapons of mass destruction. At the same time, we confirm the right of states to nuclear energy for peaceful purposes in accordance with Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, and under the Safeguards Regime of the IAEA."

Regrettably, lack of any results at the last NPT Review Conference and the United Nations Disarmament Commission remains a major challenge for the international community. It is time to take coordinated efforts to overcome that crisis. The process in that direction has already made a good start. The Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia, signed on 8 September 2006 in Semipalatinsk, is a demonstration of political will of five Central Asian States - Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. The signing of that milestone instrument could become a catalyst for the process of enhancement of the NPT. We believe that tangible progress in that area is possible if all Member States comply with their obligations regarding nuclear disarmament and vertical and horizontal proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The Central Asian States are ready to continue consultations with the permanent members of the Security Council on the issue of that Treaty's entry into force. In our view, the States concerned should strictly comply with their commitment to a moratorium on nuclear test explosions and work to ensure the entry into force of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty.

All peaceful nuclear programmes should be carried out in a transparent manner, under the control of the International Atomic Energy Agency. It is a matter of great concern that the crisis has extended not only to strategic but also to conventional weapons. Regrettably, Member States have so far failed to devise common approaches to the Programme of Action in this area. We have to step up efforts to tighten national export control mechanisms. I refer, first and foremost, to dual-use materials and technologies, as well as to missiles and means of delivery of weapons of mass destruction, with full and strict compliance with the provisions of a Security Council resolution adopted in 2004. The possibility of weapons of mass destruction falling into the hands of terrorists is a matter of grave concern. To prevent such a scenario, we have to push for the accession of all United Nations Member States to the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism."

Saudi Arabia
His Royal Highness Prince Saud AL-FAISAL, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"Effectively preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction requires abandoning double standards and emphasizing the importance of making the whole Middle East, including the Gulf region, free from nuclear weapons. Israel is the only country in the region which is known to possess weapons of mass destruction but is not subjected to any form of monitoring."

Conventional Weapons

"The European Union will continue to push for a legally-binding treaty on trade in all conventional weapons."

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

“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).”

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

“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.”

“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.”

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.”

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

In dealing with this dramatic situation...the Dominican Republic maintains itself vigilant in the continuous struggle, and urges that the international community to strengthen control and prevention mechanisms that are required to halt these modern challenges that only contribute to instill fear and restlessness among defenseless civilian populations."

Ecuador
H.E. Mr. Alfred PALACIO, President
September 20, 2006

"The world has watched engrossed the brutal bloodshed of peoples as a consequence of the settlement of conflicts through the use of weapons, and the limited competence of the International Community within the United Nations to find solutions in keeping with the law."

Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Mr. Adnan TERZIĆ, Chairman of the Council of Ministers
September 20, 2006

"As a mine-affected country Bosnia-Herzegovina is quite active in the implementation of Ottawa Convention, dealing with the problem of land-mines, As it is well known, there are still significant number of landmines left in our country as a consequence of war. The demanding work of de-mining is still impossible in Bosnia-Herzegovina without further foreign assistance. Please allow me to avail my self of this opportunity to thank all the governments that contributed to the de-mining funds."

Belgium
H.E. Mr. Karel DE GUCHT, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 20, 2006

"...the arms embargo [against Lebanon] should immediately and effectively be implemented."

Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Sergey V. LAVROV, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006

Iraq
H.E. Mr. Jalal TALABANI, President
September 22, 2006

"These groups are mainly composed of the remnants of the former regime, in league with organized crime, itself a product of the oppression of the old regime, and the lapse of security after its collapse. The supply line of money and weapons for these groups extend to neighboring Arab, and regional states. They are further supported by individuals who infiltrate across the borders, many of them Al-Qaeda operatives and runaway Saddamists. Such groups have the illusion that the can oppress the will of our people by continuing to kill, terrorize and spread despair amongst them."

United Kingdom
H.E. The RT Honorable Mrs. Margaret BECKETT MP, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
September 22, 2006

"And at the same time we must see a step change in efforts towards an international Arms Trade Treaty that will end the irresponsible transfer of arms that fuel conflict and facilitate the abuse of human rights. That is why the United Kingdom, with six other countries, will introduce a resolution in the First Committee to establish a process working towards a legally binding treaty on the trade in conventional arms."

Solomon Islands
H.E. The Honorable Mr. Manesseh SOGAVARE, Prime Minister
September 22, 2006

"Solomon Islands notes with regret that the recent five year review of the 2001 Programme of Action to prevent, combat and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons did not agree on a final document. Solomon Islands continue to believe that the root cause of a gun culture emerging is development related. At some stage the Conference should focus more on addressing poverty issues within vulnerable countries, where gun culture is likely to emerge in a global effort to address the issue once and for all."

Philippines
H.E. Mr. Alberto Gatmaitan ROMULO, Secretary for Foreign Affairs
September 22, 2006

"As founder and current Chair of the Tripartite Forum on Interfaith Dialogue and Cooperation for Peace, a new movement of governments, UN agencies and religious NGOs accredited with the UN, the Philippines will initiate the holding of another high-level tripartite conference, this time to focus on small and light weapons."

Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW)

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

"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."

"Concrete action is needed on small arms and light weapons at the national, regional and global levels."

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

"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."

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

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.”

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

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.

“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.”

Papua New Guinea
H.E. Sir Michael SOMARE, MP, Prime Minister
September 20, 2006

“Our world today is marked by an inequitable global trading order and a hostile security environment. Wanton globalization and unfettered trade liberalization are affecting many of us in ways that are detrimental to the livelihoods of our people. Unilateral actions by the big and powerful to resolve disputes are no longer incidental but the order of the day. We note the increasing incidence of human atrocities, genocides. wars, poverty, terrorism, emergence of HIV/AIDS and increase in malaria and TB. Our streets and communities are littered with small arms and light weapons. Drug and human smuggling and other illegal activities are on the rise. Environmental degradation and climate change continue unabated. We must confront these issues urgently. To complement efforts in other fora, Papua New Guinea with other countries of the Pacific Region have agreed to pool our limited resources under the Pacific Plan to address these issues.”

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

“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.”

Namibia
H.E. Mr. Hifikepunye POHAMBA, President
September 20, 2006

"We would like to join other countries around the world in expressing our concern about the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons which remains a menace to humanity. Their proliferation compromises peace and security,They also pose serious challenges to law enforcement agencies around the world. The Second Continental Conference of African Governmental Experts on the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons took place in our capital city, Windhoek in December last year. It adopted an African Common Position which was presented to the Review Conference on progress made in the implementation of the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in July 2006, here in New York. We believe that more needs to be done and Namibia will continue to call for a binding international instrument on the tracing of illicit small arms and light weapons."

“On security, in the specific context of stability and harmony within communities, I cannot over emphasize the importance of global actions to control and limit the availability of small arms weapons. These weapons in the hands of the wrong people can easily destabilize communities and plunge small nations into deadly conflict. We therefore renew our call for the early implementation of the Program of Action to prevent, combat and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons.”

Egypt
H.E. Mr. Ahmed ABOUL GHEIT, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 21, 2006:

"In our consideration of the development of international efforts to combat the illicit trafficking in small arms and light weapons, we must not overlook its link, among other things, the illegal exploitation of the natural resources and its role in fueling regional conflicts in various parts of the world."

Nauru
H.E. The Honourable Ludwig SCOTTY MP, President
September 22, 2006

Arms Trade Treaty (ATT)

"The European Union will continue to push for a legally-binding treaty on trade in all conventional weapons."

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

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.”

United Kingdom
H.E. The RT Honorable Mrs. Margaret BECKETT MP, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
September 22, 2006

"And at the same time we must see a step change in efforts towards an international Arms Trade Treaty that will end the irresponsible transfer of arms that fuel conflict and facilitate the abuse of human rights. That is why the United Kingdom, with six other countries, will introduce a resolution in the First Committee to establish a process working towards a legally binding treaty on the trade in conventional arms."

Disarmament and Development

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

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.”

“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.”

“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.”

“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.”