Disarmament Index by Country
of high-level statements made during the General Debate of the 62nd
Session of the General Assembly
September 25 - October 3, 2007
This is an index of all references made to issues of disarmament,
peace, and security, made in the General Debate of the United Nations
General Assembly. This index is a tool to gauge the issues which
will be detailed during the First Committee of the General Assembly,
starting 8 October 2007. Included in this Index are all references
made to arms control, disarmament, multilateralism, nuclear energy,
nuclear weapon free zones, security, proliferation, terrorism, and
weapons.
H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General
25 September 2007
Disarmament/Proliferation/Terrorism/Weapons: "From
my first day in office, I have stressed the importance of disarmament,
as mandated most recently in the General Assembly’s support
for my proposal to establish an Office of Disarmament Affairs. We
must reinvigorate our effort to stop the proliferation of weapons
of mass destruction and related technology, and especially to prevent
such material from falling into the hands of terrorists."
North Korea: "I am encouraged by recent progress on
the DPRK issue. I sincerely hope that forthcoming interKorean Summit
meeting will create a historic momentum, to bring peace, security,
and eventually a peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula."
Iran/Weapons: "I am confident that we will reach a
negotiated solution with the Islamic Republic of Iran. Our ultimate
goal remains the complete elimination of weapons of mass destruction.
If we fail, these weapons may one day eliminate us."
Multilateralism: "The pendulum of history is swinging
in our favor. Multilateralism is back. An increasingly interdependent
world recognizes that the challenges of tomorrow are best dealt
with through the UN. Indeed, they can only be dealt with through
the UN."
H.E. Dr. Srgjan Kerim
25 September 2007
Security: "If fully implemented, the commitments made
at the 2005 World Summit, and at other summits and conferences,
can create the conditions for lasting prosperity and stability,
based on the principles of peace and security, international development,
human rights and the rule of law."
Terrorism: "As I set out in more detail at the opening
of this session, in consultation with you, I identified five priority
topics that we need to address during this session . . . 4. countering
terrorism."
H.E. Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, President
25 September 2007
Multilateralism: "The United Nations is our best tool
to deal with today's international challenges. It is through mulitlateral
diplomacy that we find the way to foster peace and development.
Brazil's role, alongside other Latin American and Caribbean nations,
in the MINUSTAH Stablization Mission in Haiti highlights our efforts
to strengthen multilateral institutions. In Haiti, we are showing
that peace and stability are built with democracy and social development."
H.E. Mr. George W. Bush, President
25 September 2007
Terrorism: "First, the mission of the United Nations
requires liberating people from tyranny and violence. The first
article of the Universal Declaration begins, "All human beings
are born free and equal in dignity and rights." The truth is
denied by terrorists and extremists who kill the innocent with the
aim of imposing their hateful vision on humanity. The followers
of this violent ideology are a threat to civilized people everywhere.
All civilized nations must work together to stop them -- by sharing
intelligence about their networks, and choking their -- off their
finances, and bringing to justice their operatives.
"In the long run, the best way to defeat extremists is to defeat
their dark ideology with a more hopeful vision -- the vision of
liberty that founded this body. The United States salutes the nations
that have recently taken strides toward liberty -- including Ukraine
and Georgia and Kyrgyzstan and Mauritania and Liberia, Sierra Leone
and Morocco. The Palestinian Territories have moderate leaders,
mainstream leaders that are working to build free institutions that
fight terror, and enforce the law, and respond to the needs of their
people. The international community must support these leaders,
so that we can advance the vision of two democratic states, Israel
and Palestine, living side-by-side in peace and security.
"Brave citizens in Lebanon and Afghanistan and Iraq have made
the choice for democracy -- yet the extremists have responded by
targeting them for murder. This is not a show of strength -- it
is evidence of fear. And the extremists are doing everything in
their power to bring down these young democracies. The people of
Lebanon and Afghanistan and Iraq have asked for our help. And every
civilized nation has a responsibility to stand with them."
Proliferation/WMD: "Together, we're working to stop
the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction."
H.E. Mr. Nursultan A. Nazarbayev, President
25 September 2007
Nuclear Weapons/Terrorism: "I want to invite us all
to make not a very long trip down the memory lane and recall that
in 1946, the United Nations General Assembly, convened for the very
first time, by its very first decision established a Commission
to Deal with the Problems Raised by the Discovery of Atomic Energy.
"As you can see, already at that point in history, an extraordinary
power unleashed by that scientific discovery and its use for military
purposes became a matter of concern for the world community.
"And almost nothing has happened since that time to allay fears
of the humanity. On the contrary, the race for the possession of
nuclear weapons, now joined by even terrorist organizations, has
continued unabated all through these years."
Security/Weapons: "Even though the community of nations
has recognized the need to reform the system of international security
for a long time, there is no real progress. Lack of the international
consensus on the issue has led to a dramatic weakening of the collective
security system. Speaking in general terms, we are dealing with
a systemic crisis of international governability, the international
community is running out of legitimate levers capable of stopping
the spread of weapons of mass destruction."
Nuclear Weapons/Proliferation/NPT: "In addition to
ethic, economic or other motives, we need to erect legal barriers
to stop proliferation. For this reason, Kazakhstan proposes to adapt
the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) to
the new realities. It should be acknowledged that the NPT has turned
into an asymmetric agreement. It provides for sanctions applicable
only to non-nuclear states. However, if nuclear powers call for
banning the development of nuclear weapons, they themselves should
set an example of reduction and renunciation of nuclear arsenals.
That is not the case. This unfairness is an inducement for those
states that still aspire to acquire weapons of mass destruction.
It should be made clear that, in our view, this aspiration is irrational."
Nuclear Weapons/Explosions/Testing/Disarmament: "The
people of Kazakhstan have lived through all the horrors of the effects
of nuclear explosions. 456 such explosions were conducted at the
Semipalatinsk nuclear testing ground. It is for this reason that,
after gaining its independence, the first milestone decision by
Kazakhstan was to shut down the Semipalatinsk nuclear testing site.
It was followed by the renunciation of nuclear missile arsenal,
the fourth largest in the world, and the dismantling of its infrastructure.
I want to note here that at that time we had not only the trained
personnel but also practically all means of delivery of nuclear
warheads."
Disarmament/Security/Arms: "Those steps have shaped
the strategy of our state in the area of global security. For the
first time in human history, a nation possessing destructive force
has given it up voluntarily. I am sure that by taking that action
Kazakhstan established trust in the world. Thanks to that step,
the country has witnessed an inflow of considerable investments
that have become a foundation of impressive accomplishments in the
area of development known today throughout the world.
"By taking that step, we have consolidated our independence,
having received security assurances of all nuclear-weapon states.
I have a question for others: why not follow our example instead
of wasting astounding amounts on the arms race?"
Terrorism: "Over the recent years international terrorism
has significantly undermined world security. International drug
trafficking serves as a financial pillar of terrorism. Today, international
drug industry accounts for a third of the annual volume of the "economy
of terrorism." It is a well-established fact that terrorism
finds fertile ground in unstable and poor countries. We have such
a country in our region: Afghanistan. That country is driving an
evergrowing trade in drugs. Poor countries need the assistance of
developed nations. They need the assistance that would give tangible
results."
Terrorism: "Most of sensational predictions of an inevitable
"clash of civilizations," luckily, have not yet been accurate.
However, we should be clear that inter-faith tension feeds the social
basis of international terrorism and religious extremism."
Iran: "The peoples of our region like the entire international
community count on peaceful solution of the so-called crisis around
Iran. The best way to achieve that is for Iran, whose people have
great history and culture, to prove the peaceful character of its
nuclear programme."
Military Spending: "15 years ago, from this podium,
Kazakhstan put forward an initiative related to the enhancement
of the Organization's peacekeeping capacity. We proposed to establish
a United Nations peacekeeping fund by states voluntarily contributing
to it 1 percent of their military budgets. That idea has been supported
by the Secretary-General Mr. Ban Ki-moon who has proposed to redirect
to development 1 percent of global military spending, which today
stands at more than 1 trillion US dollars."
Nuclear Energy: "Possessing large deposits of uranium,
we will be playing an important role in the development of nuclear
energy sector."
Security: "I believe that seeking an accord between
religions and peacefid coexistence of ethnic groups is a crucially
important element of the process of maintaining international security."
Multilateralism: "I strongly believe that there are
no problems in the world that cannot be solved if we set harmony,
tolerance and spirituality against animosity, relying on mutual
trust and cooperation. That understanding instills hope and enhances
confidence in the future. The United Nations plays a special role
in the strengthening of those hopes. We are not skeptical about
the legitimacy of the international law and have faith in the effectiveness
of such multilateral mechanisms as the United Nations in the promotion
of security and fairness."
H.E. Mr. John Agyekum Kufuor, President
25 September 2007
Disarmament/Non-proliferation: "Despite the collective
efforts of the community of nations towards disarmament and non-proliferation,
the world is as unsafe as it was decades ago. In the face of grave
threats to humankind, it is ironic that little progress has been
made to reverse the prevailing abysmal developments within the disarmament
realm. This has raised, and rightly so, some concerns over whether
disarmament is in danger of becoming a forsaken and forgotten goal
of the Organization."
Security/Multilateralism/Disarmament: "While it has
been widely acknowledged that we now live in a new and complex security
environment, the international community is yet to adopt the required
realistic and achievable solutions to contain the grave threats
as countries continue to uphold paradoxical and anachronistic security
policies, inconsistent with present realities.
"In an era of collective security, it is imperative that we
replace unilateralism with multilateralism, which has been widely
acclaimed as the only viable option for the pursuit of constructive
disarmament and nonproliferation. As the bastion of international
peace and security, the UN is naturally expected to assume its leadership
role to this end. It is in this connection that we reaffirm our
support for the Secretary-General's proposal to establish an Office
for Disarmament Affairs to be part of the decision-making process
in the Secretariat. We hope that with his sterling diplomatic pedigree
and commitment to world peace and security, the active involvement
of Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon would yield the desired fruit and
propel the disarmament realm into the path of progress."
Multilateralism: "In this connection, let me stress
that the collective aspiration of humankind to live in a peaceful
and secured world would remain a mirage, unless we buttress our
conviction in multilateralism by exhibiting genuine commitment and
the political will to objectively and faithfully abide by the outcome
of such negotiations."
Multilateralism: "Ghana believes that the United Nations
remains the ideal multilateral instrument available for maintaining
international peace and security and for promoting fruitful international
cooperation."
Nuclear Energy/IAEA: "Ghana would continue to strongly
advocate for the right of states, especially developing countries,
to peaceful use of nuclear technology, given its immense contribution
to socio-economic development. However, we also recognize that this
inherent right should be pursued under the rubric of international
agreements, especially with respect to verifiability and transparency.
My delegation therefore joins others in calling for the IAEA's verification
mechanism to be strengthened to enable the Agency discharge its
onerous responsibility effectively and efficiently."
Small Arms/Proliferation: "As Africa makes significant
progress towards healing the wounds of long wars that plagued regions
of the continent, an issue of grave concern, is the proliferation
of illicit small arms and light weapons, a misnomer for lethal instruments
whose abuse has wrought havoc and caused untold distress to millions
of people and fuelled insecurity and instability across the globe.
While laudable progress has been made since the adoption of the
UN Programme of Action in 2001, we are yet to attain the envisaged
goal and thereby stifle the obnoxious malpractice of callous persons
who have turned wanton deaths into a lucrative business. We owe
it to the numerous victims who look up to this Organization to lead
in efforts towards stemming the proliferation of these Weapons of
Mass Destruction, thereby, saving generations from experiencing
the tragic ordeal which others have suffered and continue to suffer."
H.E. Mr. Don Jose Manuel Zelaya Rosales, President 25 September 2007
Statement is currently available only in Spanish; please check
back later.
His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Emir
25 September 2007
Security: "The international order witnessed cold and
bloody wars. As much as bloody wars are humanly unacceptable, cold
wars are psychologically unbearable because they would inevitably
and consequently lead to shadowy conflicts. Such conflicts are completely
incompatible with the nature of a world in which the forces of enlightenment
and the components and tools of understanding among nations and
cultures have strived in an unprecedented manner in the history
of mankind."
H.E. Mr. Nicolas Sarkozy, President
25 September 2007
Terrorism: "There will be no peace in the world unless
the international community stands foursquare in its determination
to fight terrorism."
Nuclear Proliferation/Iran: "There will be no peace
in the world if the international community falters in the face
of nuclear arms proliferation. Obviously, I am thinking here of
the Iranian question. Iran is entitled to nuclear power for civilian
purposes. But if we allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons, we would
incur an unacceptable risk to stability in the region and in the
world. We would threaten the very existence of the Non-Proliferation
Treaty. I want to say here, in the name of France, that we can only
resolve this crisis by combining firmness with dialogue. That is
the spirit in which France intends to act."
H.E. Branko Crvenkovski, President
25 September 2007
Disarmament/Arms Control/Non-proliferation: "The issue
of disarmament, arms control and non-proliferation must remain high
on our agenda, by attaching further importance to these issues relevant
for the achievement of global peace, security and development."
Terrorism: "Terrorism continues to threaten our world.
Fight against terrorism is yet another area in which we must stand
united. The UN Strategy and Action Plan to counter terrorism adopted
last year, provide an excellent framework for our individual and
joint actions. We must promote their implementation at the national
and regional level and tend to realize visible results."
H.E. Ms. Michelle Bachelet, President
25 September 2007
Disarmament/Non-proliferation: "[W]e have always been,
even in difficult times but with dignity and determination, on the
side of international law, disarmament, nonproliferation and world
peace."
Multilateralism/Disarmament/Non-proliferation: "Mine
is a country that believes in progress and in the ability of human
beings to be the subject of their own history and to build a better
future. . . . This requires the conclusion of agreements and the
strengthening of multilateral institutions, advancing towards disarmament
and non-proliferation . . ."
Multilateralism: "[A]ll of us have the obligation to
construct a new global political consensus to generate collective
action capable of solving the problem in accordance with the principle
of shared but dzferentiated responsibility and within the framework
of the United Nations."
H.E. Mr. Jose Socrates, Prime Minister of Portugal
25 September 2007
Multilateralism: "In a globalised and interdependent
world, only strong multilateral institutions can promote the fundamental
values of peace, democracy, human rights and development.
"This is why we support the primacy of the United Nations
in maintaining peace and security, as the foundation and focal point
of our shared ambitions and concerted efforts and why we adopted
effective multilateralism and a rule-based international order as
the objective of the European Security Strategy.
"If the turn of the century has taught us only one lesson,
it is that global challenges require global responses. They need
effective multilateralism, and that is our business here, in the
United Nations and with the United Nations. All this will be possible
only if we all invest in this structure and the trust and the public
will, allowing it to act effectively on the international scene
with both legitimacy and determination.
"Every time that states and organizations, be they international,
regional or sub-regional, are able to respond in a coordinated and
collective manner to these threats, the results are measurable.
Cooperation between the EU and the United Nations, in this area
have been intensified, just as we, too, are developing our own capacity
through the European Security and Defence Policy."
Disarmament/Non-proliferation/Small Arms/ATT: "We are
committed to upholding, implementing and further strengthening the
multilateral disarmament and non-proliferation framework in the
fight against threats which are tending to escape the control of
national sovereignty, the challenges deriving from destabilizing
accumulation and spread of small arms and light weapons, from illicit
or irresponsible arms trade, and from the proliferation of weapons
of mass destruction, which are creating new and growing hot-spots
of international tension. In this regard, the EU welcomes the growing
support in all parts of the world for an International Arms Trade
Treaty and is firmly committed to this process."
Terrorism: "All terrorist acts are criminal and unjustifiable,
regardless of their motivation, their form or their manifestation.
We must therefore make resolute efforts to counter terrorism, in
accordance with our obligations under International Law, and fully
respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms, the protection
of which are essential in tackling this threat."
Terrorism: "The adoption of the Global Counter-Terrorism
Strategy by the General Assembly was a significant achievement.
Now we must ensure its full implementation, including by reaching
agreement on the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism
as soon as possible."
H.E. Mahinda Rajapaksa, President
25 September 2007
Terrorism: "Even as we gather here, State sovereignty,
civil society and the rule of law are increasingly being threatened
by terrorism and other illegal and illicit activities in many countries.
We need to be vigilant about these activities. Although the UN system
has set up mechanisms to deal with many of these problems, the capacity
of the UN to address these challenges has been brought into question.
"There are many Member States represented in this Assembly
today who have first hand experience of the havoc caused by brutish
terrorism which has stretched its claws to many corners of the globe
to mar innocent lives. All terrorist attacks whether in New York,
Mumbai, Cairo, London or Colombo, are acts that threaten the democratic
way of life and must be condemned unreservedly.
"Terrorism anywhere is terrorism. There is nothing good in
terrorism. Sri Lanka has taken an upfront position in the global
community’s efforts to deal with terrorism. We have become
party to 11 of the 13 UN Conventions for the suppression of various
acts of terrorism. We think that the Comprehensive Convention on
International Terrorism, which in our view remains a priority, is
only limited to endless discussion. I emphasize that we must conclude
these negotiations soon."
H.E. Mr. Abdoulaye Wade, President
25 September 2007
Currently available only in French, please check back later.
H.E. Mr. Thabo Mbeki, President
25 September 2007
Multilateralism: "Because the nations of the world
are defined by the dominant and the dominated, the dominant have
also become the decision makers in the important global forums,
including at this seat of global governance. Accordingly, the skewed
distribution of power in the world -- political, economic, military,
technological and social -- replicates itself in multilateral institutions,
much to the disadvantage of the majority of the poor people of the
world."
H.E. Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, President
25 September 2007
Disarmament/Weapons/Law: "Some who were themselves
the drafters of international law openly and easily violate it and
apply discriminatory policies and double standards to others. They
drafted disarmament regulations, but every day test and stockpile
new generations of lethal weapons."
Arms Race/Security: "Some powers, whenever their logic
fails, simply use the language of threat. The huge arms race casts
a shadow of threat over the globe. The nations of Europe were the
victims of two world wars and a number of other devastating conflicts
and were subjected to the consequences of the Cold War for many
decades. Today Europeans are living under the shadow of threat,
and their interests, security and lands are endangered under shadow
of the arms race imposed by certain big powers.
"A bullying power allows itself the right to set up a missile
system, makes the life of the peoples of a continent bitter, and
lays the ground for arms race. Some rulers who superficially appear
to be powerful believe the tools they have at hand can be used at
any time and for any purpose and consequently threaten others and
cast the shadow of insecurity over nations and regions."
Iran's nuclear programme: "The nuclear issue of Iran
is a clear example of how such mechanisms perform and the prevailing
thoughts behind them. You are all aware that Iran is a member of
the International Atomic Energy Agency and has always observed its
rules and regulations and has had the most extensive cooperation
with this Agency in all areas. All our nuclear activities have been
completely peaceful and transparent.
"According to the Statute of the IAEA, any member has a number
of rights and obligations. In fact, all members have to stay on
a peaceful path and, under the supervision of the Agency assist
other members, and they are entitled to be supported by the Agency
and have access to the he1 cycle with the help of the Agency and
its members.
"Thus far, lran has fulfilled all of its obligations but has
been deprived of other members' technical assistance and, even at
times, of the Agency's support. For about 5 years, some of the aforementioned
powers have, by exerting heavy pressure on the IAEA, attempted to
prevent the Iranian nation from exercising its rights.
"They have derailed Iran's nuclear issue from its legal tracks,
and have politicized the atmosphere to impose their wishes through
taking advantage of all their potentials. The government of lran
spared no effort to build confidence, but they were not satisfied
with anything short of the complete halt of all activities, even
those related to research and university fields. They were only
after depriving the Iranian people of all their inalienable rights,
even to the extent that those centers not involved in the fuel cycle
or not in need of supervision by the Agency were closed.
"After three years of negotiations and attempts to build confidence,
the Iranian nation came to the firm belief that the main concern
of these powers is not the possible deviation of Iran's nuclear
activities, but is to prevent its scientific progress under this
pretext. And, if this trend continues there will be no possibility
for lran to enjoy its rights, not even in the next 20 years. Therefore,
Iran decided to pursue the issue through its appropriate legal path,
one that runs through the IAEA, and to disregard unlawful and political
impositions by the arrogant powers.
"In the last two years, abusing the Security Council, the arrogant
powers have repeatedly accused Iran and even made military threats
and imposed illegal sanctions against it. However, by the grace
of faith in God and national unity, Iran has moved forward step
by step and now our country is recognized as a one with the capacity
for industrial scale fuel cycle production for peaceful uses. Unfortunately,
the Security Council, in dealing with this obvious legal issue,
was influenced by some bullying powers and failed to uphold justice
and protect the rights of the Iranian people.
"Fortunately, the IAEA has recently tried to regain its legal
role as supporter of the rights of its members while supervising
nuclear activities. We see this as a correct approach adopted by
the Agency. Previously, they illegally insisted on politicizing
the Iranian nation's nuclear case, but today, because of the resistance
of the Iranian nation, the issue is back to the Agency, and I officially
announce that in our opinion the nucIear issue of Iran is now closed
and has turned into an ordinary Agency matter. Today many important
questions have been raised about the nuclear activities of certain
powers within the IAEA which should be dealt with properly. Of course
Iran has always been and will be prepared to have constructive talks
with all parties.
"I would like to thank all the nations and countries that,
during this difficult juncture, defended the legal rights of my
nation and motherland and I also want to appreciate the members
of the Non-Aligned Movement, our fiends in the Security Council
and in the IAEA's Board of Governors, the committed and law-abiding
experts of the Agency and its Director-General for their standing
by the law. I would also like to announce that unlike the monopolistic
powers, the Iranian nation is ready to offer to other members its
experiences in the form of educational programs and based on its
obligations under the Agency's Statute and under its supervision."
H.E. Dr. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, President
25 September 2007
Multilateralism: "And that, I believe, is what humankind
needs most today: the involvement of every one. There must be a
global partnership at work: developed and developing countries together
must work with a deeper sense of partnership, and a more profound
sense of urgency."
Disarmament/Non-proliferation: "No partnership works
without teamwork, and no teamwork is possible without constant effective
communication. This means dialogue. After all, dialogue is the best
way to exercise soft power. Dialogue and soft power can greatly
advance the cause of disarmament and non-proliferation."
Terrorism: "Dialogue and soft power can also be a major
instrument in addressing the root causes of terrorism. That is why
I am a firm advocate of dialogue among faiths, cultures and civilizations."
H.E. Hamid Karzai, President 25 September 2007
Terrorism: "To the extent that terrorism remains a
threat, world citizens will never be safe. Six years after Afghanistan's
liberation from the grip of international terrorists, we are still
grappling with this threat on daily basis. Terrorists continue to
kill innocent Afghans as well as those who have come from the outside
world to help. The past two years have witnessed a significant increase
in terrorist attacks, carried out with new and brutal tactics such
as beheadings, kidnappings and the burning of schools and clinics.
"May I emphasize, ladies and gentlemen, that we were the prime
victim of terrorism and that terrorism was never, nor is it today,
a homegrown phenomenon in Afghanistan. Therefore, this threat can
only be overcome if addressed appropriately across its regional
and international dimensions. We monitor with
deep concern the continued presence of terrorist infrastructure
in our region, and condemn, in equally strong terms, the atrocities
that terrorists are committing in places beyond our borders. Consistent
with our expressed belief in the past, we remain convinced that
tolerating the presence of sanctuaries and terrorist infrastructure
will only broaden the scope of terrorism.
"Recognising that constructive regional cooperation is vital
to a successful counterterrorism strategy, we proposed the holding
of Joint Peace Jirgas between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and we are
pleased for the support that this initiative has received from our
friends in the international community. The first Joint Peace Jirga,
convened in Kabul last month, was a promising step in harnessing
the unequivocal support of civil societies in both countries in
ow common fight against terrorism and extremism. We expect that
the oGtcome of the Jirga will translate into concrete action.
"As a measure to ensure long-term stability, we will continue
to focus on reconciliation as a measure to detach Afghan citizens
with grievances, from the minority of die-hard foreign terrorists
and extremists."
H.E. Mr. Ivan Gasparovic, President
25 September 2007
Disarmament/Non-proliferation/WMD: "The Slovak Republic
also expects the 62nd session of the UN General Assembly to revitalise
the discussion on disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of
mass destruction. Slovakia has had an opportunity to contribute
to these efforts through its chairmanship in the 1540 Committee
of the Security Council. In this context, in February 2007 Slovakia
initiated also an open debate of the Security Council on non-proliferation
of weapons of mass destruction."
Terrorism/WMD: "The destructive potential of weapons
of mass destruction increases along with the growing threat of international
terrorism. We therefore want to pay a special attention also to
this threat to international peace and security. The Global Counter-Terrorism
Strategy adopted in the General Assembly last year provides for
wide-ranging international co-operation in this field."
S.A.S. Le Prince Albert II de Monaco
25 September 2007
Terrorism: "There are also ethical considerations which
inspire the constant and resolute commitment of my country in the
fight against terrorism. Violence can never be justified in any
circumstances."
H.E. Mr. Thoomas Hendrik Ilves, President
25 September 2007
No references to disarmament.
H.E. Nicanor Duarte Frutos, President
25 September 2007
Unofficial translation
Security: "We are totally in favor of the globalization
of democracy with social development, and the universalization of
security based on respect for human rights and the dignity of human
life."
Terrorism/Security: "Its (the UN) priority issues do
not have to be war or armed conflicts. Nor even terrorism, real
or strategically planned (over-calculated). On the contrary, its
priorities should be the programs for the elimination of poverty,
ignorance and unemployment. Educate and distribute towards a culture
of democratic participation in the goods of humanity."
Security/Disarmament/Non-Proliferation: "Disarmament,
non-proliferation and arms control are decisive factors to ensure
international peace and security. These are also the guarantee,
which the most defenseless countries have, of respect for their
right of self-determination and sovereignty. Furthermore, (we must)
strengthen this multilateral system capable of contributing to mutual
security."
H.E. Martin Torrijos Espino, President
25 September 2007
Unofficial Translation
Security: "The responsibility to solve differences
and prevent conflict falls, primarily, on those states involved
in disagreements. However, achieving peace depends a great deal
on our commitment to the architecture of collective security that
is concentrated in the United Nations."
Security/Terrorism: "To accomplish lasting peace more
is needed than just the laying down of arms: the road to development
must be initiated, the legal and political institutions must be
reconstructed, and human rights must be respected. Neither can we
speak of a lasting peace while we live beneath the threat of terrorism,
whose defeat is definitely a permanent challenge to the international
community. Panama supports the efforts exerted by the United Nations,
such as the adoption of the Global Strategy against Terrorism, to
fight in an integrated manner against this scourge. And because
we attribute high priority to the adoption of a general convention
on international terrorism, we assume the responsibility to preside
over the Committee against Terrorism."
H.E. Mr. Jose Eduardo dos Santos, President
25 September 2007
Terrorism/Militarism: "[T]he world is also confronted
with extremists who resort to terrorism and the use of religion
for political ends; with growing militarism as a pretense response
to terrorism . . ."
Terrorism: "[W]e must continue to deepen our study
and analysis of the threat of terrorism and use peaceful means to
seek an ever broader consensus on the collective responses needed
to counter it."
WMD/Conventional Weapons/Security: "The UN-led fight
against conventional, nuclear, chemical and biological weapons and
landmines, in addition to the peacekeeping and humanitarian operations
of the 'Blue Helmets' in several regions, have contributed to greater
world security."
Disarmament/NPT/Arms Race: "In that sense, it is important
to reinforce the monitoring of the application of the Treaty of
Non Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, to move towards a global disarmament
process and to discourage the new ongoing arms race."
Multilateralism: "We believe that through joint actions,
as well as through the promotion of dialogue among civilizations
and the revitalization of the spirit of international solidarity,
it is possible to build a better world for all."
Weapons/Security: "A world of peace, based on Justice
and the Rule of Law, without weapons of war and without dangerous
pollution is safer, and its construction depends solely on the political
will of all the Member States of the United Nations, especially
the Permanent Members of its Security Council."
H.E. Professor Ramano Prodi, Prime Minister
25 September 2007
Multilateralism: "National approaches to solving the
world's problems are no longer exist. The era of making and unmaking
national borders is long over. It is only through multilateralism,
by marshalling everyone's energies, that we can hope to do good.
"Our task today is to adapt for a changing world the multilateral
structures at our disposal. To think of new forms of global governance.
For there is no other way to manage global processes."
Security: "[I]nsecurity leads more and more people
and countries to close themselves off. The danger is that this sense
of insecurity can cause societies to regress. Even the most free
and democratic nations, feeling under threat, may adopt measures
that will undermine peace, and with it the civil and political rights
of their citizens."
H.E. Dr. Angela Merkel, Chancellor
25 September 2007
Multilateralism: "There are numerous crises we have
to deal with right now. And notwithstanding the many differing factors
that have led to these crises, they all have one thing in common
- they can only be solved multilaterally. The key to ending them
is unity of purpose."
Iran's nuclear programme: "Iran has continuously worked
on its nuclear programme in clear contradiction of the demands of
the IAEA and the UN. Nobody should be in the slightest doubt as
to the dangerous nature of this programme. Iran is ignoring UN Security
Council resolutions and is blatantly threatening Israel. Let's not
fool ourselves. If Iran were to acquire the nuclear bomb, the consequences
would be disastrous - first and foremost for the existence of Israel,
secondly for the entire region and ultimately for all of us in Europe
and the world who attach any importance to the values of liberty,
democracy and human dignity. That is why we have to prevent Iran
from acquiring nuclear arms.
"The international community must not allow itself to be divided
and its decisive response to Iran's provocations undermined in any
way. The world does not have to prove to Iran that Iran is building
a nuclear bomb. Iran has to convince the world that it is not striving
towards such a bomb."
Terrorism/Security: "Unity of purpose is also the key
in the fight against international terrorism, and especially in
our efforts aimed at security and stability in Afghanistan."
H.E. Valdis Zatlers, President
26 September 2007
Multilateralism: "Latvia has a strong commitment to
multilateralism and the values embodied in the Charter of the United
Nations."
H.E. Mrs Micheline Calmy-Rey, President
26 September 2007
Terrorism: "In an age when civilian populations find
themselves easy prey to suicide attacks and sophisticated weapons…where
do we stand with regard to our responsibilities?"
Terrorism: "Switzerland reiterates its condemnation
of terrorism in all forms and in all ways in which it is committed,
no matter who the perpetrators are, and whatever the place and the
objectives. The fight against terrorism remains a priority."
Terrorism: "The second concerns the nature of these
conflicts. The lines of battle are now becoming blurred. In the
field, the forces of the state oppose non-state armed groups. Warlords,
terrorists, and criminal gangs dictate the rules. Civilians rather
than soldiers are primary targets."
Security: "It is no longer possible to limit security
policy to the traditional state framework. The focus now must, above
all, be on the security of the individual. This concept aims to
convince both governments and non-state armed groups, to respect
certain basic rules endorsed by all concerned."
Multilateralism: "If we are to get results, confrontation
must give way to dialogue and efforts to find a solution. Negotiation,
dialogue and diplomacy are the instruments of success. We must transcend
the barriers that exist between different sectors and disciplines
in the field of international relations. We must develop alliances
based on shared values. By transcending regional, ideological and
cultural limitations, this approach enables us to find solutions.
The recent past has shown what can be achieved: the International
Criminal Court, the Human Rights Council, the Mine Ban Treaty are
all the result of broad-based coalitions of countries from all regions
of the globe."
Security: "Let us not be mistaken, there can be no
peace or security without international justice."
Mauritania H.E. Mr. Sidi Mohamed Ould Cheikh Abdellahi, President
26 September 2007
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H.E. Tarja Halonen, President
26 September 2007
Security: "A stronger United Nations also needs the
reform of the Secretariat. In this regard we welcome the additional
emphasis given to the rule of law. Support for the rule of law is
a necessity in the consolidation of global security."
Disarmament/Non-Proliferation/Small Arms/Arms Trade Treaty:
"We need efficient international cooperation in the field of
disarmament and non-proliferation. When considering, for example,
the number of victims of today’s conflicts, small arms and
light weapons are indeed “weapons of mass destruction”.
Finland together with more than 150 other states, supports the process
aiming at the adoption of an international arms trade treaty."
H.E. Gurbanguly Berdimukhamedov, President
26 September 2007
Security: "I consider a major milestone the recent
decision on the establishment of the United Nations Regional Centre
for Preventive Diplomacy in Central Asia. I am confident that the
inauguration of the Centre, set for the end of the year, will mark
an entirely new phase in our country’s and our neighbours’
efforts to ensure peace, security and stability in the region."
Non-proliferation/Nuclear Weapons: "Turkmenistan’s
neutral status, its foreign policy doctrine of non-affiliation with
any blocks, non-acceptance of force as a means of resolving international
disputes predetermine our stand with regard to the issues of peace
and security. In this context Turkmenistan fully supports the international
efforts to combat proliferation of weapons of mass destruction,
their delivery systems, and related technologies. Accordingly, Turkmenistan
has been and will be taking consistent practical steps to ensure
implementation of the international legal framework of non-proliferation
of weapons of mass destruction.
"In its legislation, Turkmenistan proclaims refusal to possess,
manufacture, store, transport nuclear, chemical, bacteriological
and other types of weapons of mass destruction, as well as new types
of technologies of their production. Not so long ago, in 2005, the
People’s Council of Turkmenistan by its decision adopted the
Statement on Supporting Initiatives of International Organizations
to Combat the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction."
Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone: "Last year, Turkmenistan
together with other states of the region signed in Semipalatinsk
the Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia. This document
is unique in many ways, since, for the first time after World War
II, it proclaims the establishment of a vast region free of nuclear
weapons on the map of the Northern Hemisphere. It is noteworthy
that our joint initiative echoed the aspirations of the majority
of countries, that it has been highly acclaimed by the international
community, endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly. Let
me take this opportunity to express appreciation to all states,
international and regional organizations that have supported the
document."
H.E. Valdas Adamkus, President
26 September 2007
Military Spending: "We feel sorry for a society at
large when its government chooses to spend the country’s natural
riches for guns and not for democratic reforms."
Disarmament/Non-Proliferation/Nuclear Weapons: "The
prevention of nuclear proliferation and the pursuit of nuclear disarmament
in accordance with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear
Weapons are crucial for global peace and security. We need to strengthen
the authority of the Non-Proliferation Treaty."
Arms Trade Treaty/Small Arms and Light Weapons: "Lithuania
will support the process leading to the elaboration of a binding
international Arms Trade Treaty. Lithuania will also continue to
increase practical assistance and funding to international mine
action projects and the implementation of the UN Program of Action
on Small Arms and Light Weapons."
H.E. Mr. Levy Patrick Mwanawasa, S.C., President
26 September 2007
Multilateralism: "Our world today presents a lot of
challenges. These include abject poverty for the majority of the
world’s inhabitants, underdevelopment, conflicts, human trafficking,
climate change, terrorism, violation of human rights, the HIV/AIDS
pandemic, and gender equality. While some of these challenges have
only recently emerged, others have been with us from time immemorial.
These challenges cannot be entirely resolved within national boundaries
or at a regional level. They can only be resolved at the multilateral
level with all players carrying out their roles diligently."
Terrorism: "Zambia condemns international terrorism
in all its forms and manifestations. For this reason we call upon
members of the international community to refrain from harbouring
terrorists. On our part, Zambia supports the Global Initiative to
Combat Terrorism."
H.E. Festus G. Mogae, President
26 September 2007
Disarmament and Development/Military Spending: "We,
the peoples of the earth, have the human and natural resources and
technology to end severe global poverty and disease, reverse climate
change, prevent wars and alleviate human suffering. Unfortunately,
substantial resources continue to be wasted on destructive endeavours
rather than constructive work. We squander valuable assets in the
production of weapons of war and mass destruction rather than on
development.
"The world would be a much better place, if the natural resources
on this planet were exploited to feed, clothe, educate, care for
the suck, prevent diseases and build communities. Young men and
women should grow up looking forward to doing extraordinary things
to advance the cause of economic and social progress, and not spending
precious time manufacturing bombs, weapons of war or planning how
to kill other human beings."
H.E. Mr. Rene Preval, President
26 September 2007
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H.E. Mr. Laurent Gbagbo, President
26 September 2007
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H.E. Fradique Bandeira Melo de Menezes, President
26 September 2007
Terrorism: "So I was saying that we also joins the
calls to defeat terrorist extremism everywhere. However we have
already seen that this will not be achieved by military force, but
by ideas and ideals that win hearts and minds."
Military Spending: "We spend almost no money on defence
and we have never fought a war."
His Majesty King Mswati III 26 September 2007
Disarmament and Development: "We welcome the Report
of the Secretary-General on the relationship between disarmament
and development, in particular its recognition that armed violence
and conflict impede realization of the millennium development goals.
In this regard we applaud the United Nations Development Programme
for its efforts to prevent armed violence through its contribution
to the disarmament and development agenda by promoting and participating
in a number of policy oriented initiatives."
Small Arms and Light Weapons: "We further commend the
efforts of the United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament
in Africa (UNREC) for its continuation of the operation of the small
arms and light weapons register for Africa for participating states
with a view to promoting transparency in the flows of small arms
and light weapons. As well as its programme entitled "African
Security Sector Reform Programme," which carries the objective
of transforming governance within the African security sector."
Multilateralism: "In conclusion, whilst our world experiences
ever-accelerating political, economic and social changes, it is
vital that we cooperate with each other in order to tackle and manage
these issues. Cordial, balanced and respectful relations between
nations based on the principles of the UN charter will enable us
all to meet and overcome future challenges of our time."
H.E. Mr. Zeljko Komsic, Chairman of the Presidency
26 September 2007
Missiles: "On May 31st, 2007, Bosnia and Herzegovina
became a presiding member of the Hague Code of Conduct, signed by
126 IJN members. My country and HCC signees, while having a belief
in collective safety, are ready to fight against missile technology
prcliferation, and are aware of the great danger of those that are
owned by non government entities who could abuse them in a destructive
manner anywhere in the world. So I urge all the countries that did
not sign the HCOC, especially those who bave baillistic capacity,
to accept this Code. I would also Like to urge all UN members to
support the draft of the relevant resolution proposed by Bosnia
and Herzegovina and Portugal."
Terrorism: "Bosnia and Herzegovina has participated
and will continue to do so, within its abilities, in international
coalition anti-terrorism efforts and made a commitment to join EU
anti-terrorism efforts. Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina
approved the Anti-Terrorism Strategic plan for the period of 2006-2009.
The Bosnia and Herzegovina Criminal Code reform that is underway
will bring more specific anti-terrorism measures that will be in
accordance with international conventions."
Multilateralism: "We are certain that by strengthening
multilateralism, the UN can produce efficient armed conflict prevention
measures."
Iran's nuclear programme: "Realizing potentiai catastrophic
consequences in a deepening of the Iranian nuclear development program
crisis. Bosnia and Herzegovina encourages Iran's readiness to fully
cooperate with International Atomic Eneqy Agency and hold a dialogue
with key partners."
Non-proliferation/WMD/Terrorism: "Realizing the enormous
threat that nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons present to
the peace, especially if in the possession of terrorists, Bosnia
and Herzegovina took significant steps towards absolute control
overs over preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
Bosnia and Herzegovina ratified or took over by succession most
of the significant documents in this area. Bosnia and Herzegovina
is eager to fully cooperate with other countries bilaterally as
well as through relevant mulitlateral organizations and initiatives
in order to effectively fight the proliferation and application
of weapons of mass destruction. Bosnia and Herzegovina passed the
law on implementation of the Chemical Weapons Ban Treaty."
Landmines: "As one of the countries most affected by
the consequences of mine stockpiles from the previous conflict,
Bosnia and Herzegovina pays close attention to the enforing Ottawa
Treaty."
H.E. Mr Felipe Perez Roque, Minister of Foreign Affairs
26 September 2007
Nuclear Weapons/Security: "The wars of conquest and
the proclamation and implementation of doctrines based on pre-emptive
wars, which do not exclude the use of nuclear weapons even against
non-nuclear States, and the repreated use of pretexts such as the
alleged war on terror, the much-trumpeted promotion of democracy
or the so-called regime change in countries that are unilaterally
labeled as rogue States, are today the greatest and most serious
threat to peace and security in the world."
Disarmament/Nuclear Weapons/Military Spending: "Instead
of moving towards general and complete disarmament, including nuclear
disarmament, which has been an ongoing demand of the Non-Aligned
Movement for decades, we bear witness to the promotion of the arms
race and to the squandering of wealth on new weapons and arms systems
that deplete the resources required by the world in order to mitigate
the effects of climate change and address the very serious problems
stemming from poverty and marginalization."
Nuclear Energy/NPT/Nuclear Weapons: "An attempt is
made to prevent, in a politicized and selective fashion, the implementation
of the principle – already contained in the Non-Proliferation
Treaty – that nations are entitled to the development of nuclear
energy with peaceful purposes. Threats are imposed to launch wars
against and wreak havoc on some countries while allowing the aggressive
ally to have hundreds of nuclear devices and helping them modernize
such artifacts continuously.
"How much more time will it have to elapse and how many new
victims will have to die before the hawks or war understand that
weapons are useless to resolve the critical problems of humankind?"
Disarmament and Development/Military Spending: "Why
are such colossal resources squandered on the killing industry and
not used to save lives? Why are schools not built instead of nuclear
submarines, and hospitals instead of “smart” bombs?
Why are vaccines not produced instead of armored vehicles and more
food instead of fighter jets? Why is there no momentum given to
research to fight off AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis instead of
promoting the manufacture of anti-missile shields?"
Nuclear Weapons: "The President of the United States
has no right at all to pass judgment on any other sovereign nation
on this planet. Having powerful nuclear weapons offers no right
whatsoever to tread upon the rights of the peoples of the other
191 countries that are represented here."
H.E. Mr. Nuri Kamel Al-Maliki, Prime Minister
26 September 2007
Terrorism/Security: "Terrorism kills civilians, journalists,
actors, thinkers, and professionals; it attacks universities, marketplaces,
and libraries; it blows up mosques and churches and destroys the
infra-structure of State institutions. We consider terrorism an
extension of the fallen dictatorship, whether it may vary in its
outside form or by the gangs that carry it out. Terrorism aims at
aborting the political process, and igniting sectarian dissension
as a prelude to hijack Iraq back into the era of tyranny; oppression
and backwardness.
"Car bombs and explosive vests in public places and the display
of decapitated heads on TV are all letters of threat that terrorists
send to the world community, the bloody chapters of which were executed
in Algeria, Spain, England, Lebanon, Turkey . . . and here in New
York. We are steadfast and determined to exterminate terrorism in
Iraq so that it does not spread around the countries of the world,
repeating the tragedy. Iraq, that carries the greater burden in
confronting terrorism calls upon the nations of the world to help
and unite its efforts towards fighting terrorism. Our battle aims
at providing security, stability and prosperity as well as protecting
our democratic experience. We are determined to be victorious in
our battle which will be a victory for humanity."
Terrorism: "National reconciliation is stronger than
the weapons of terrorism. It has succeeded in encompassing more
than 14,000 people that were members of armed groups that splintered
off from al-Qaida. These fighters stood next to our armed forces
and the multinational forces battling with al-Qaida, delivering
devastating hits."
Terrorism/Security: "Today we feel optimistic that
countries of the region realize the danger of the terrorist attacks
against Iraq; that it is not in their interest for Iraq to be weak.
A strong democratic Iraq will be a guarantee for security and stability
in the region."
Disarmament/WMD: "The elimination of weapons of mass
destruction in the Middle East will guarantee a lasting and comprehensive
peace."
Multilateralism: "Partnership and achieving peace,
stability and prosperity require reinforcing the cooperative efforts
of all countries of the world, and working together to achieve the
noble goals of the United Nations."
H.E. Umaru Musa Yar'adua, GCFR, President
26 September 2007
Terrorism: "Nigeria is wholly commited to the Global
Counter Terrorism Strategy in the fight against international terrorism.
As a follow-up to that commitment, Nigeria has established four
counter-terrorism centers in the country in addition to the Nigerian
Financial Intelligence Unit which, together with the Central Bank
of Nigeria, monitors banking transactions as part of the mechanism
to locate and the illegal transfer of funds for terrorist and other
criminal acts including money laundering. Nigeria reiterates its
condemnation of all acts of terrorism and calls upon the international
community to muster the necessary political will to confront and
check this menace."
H.E. Comrade R.G. Mugabe, President
26 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mr. Armando Emilio Guebuza, President
26 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mr Tasso Papadopoulos, President
26 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Marc Ravalomanana, President
26 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mr. Vaclav Klaus, President
26 September 2007
Security: "We have always recognized the principal
responsibility of the UN Security Council for maintaining international
peace and security."
H.E. Rafael Correa, President
26 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Jens Stoltenberg, Prime Minister
26 September 2007
Multilateralism: "We support multilateral solutions
to common problems."
H.E. Lech Kaczynski, President
26 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Dr. Lawrence Gonzi, Prime Minister
26 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mikhail Saakashvili, President
26 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Paul Kagame, President
27 September 2007
Terrorism/Multilateralism: "The global challenges of
poverty, ignorance, terrorism, conflict and climate change require
us to act collectively in a manner that the founders of this organization
captured eloquently in the words 'We the Peoples of the United Nations.'"
H.E. Mr. Stjepan Mesic, President
27 September 2007
Terrorism: "I have repeatedly drawn attention to underdevelopment
as a generator of global terrorism along with inequality in international
relations and unresolved regional crises. Yet, underdevelopment
and poverty still weigh upon a substantial part of mankind, and
the so far preferred methods in fighting against terrorism have
been shown to be under-efficient, and sometimes even counterproductive."
Arms Race: "Unfortunately, force is still present in
international relations, and on the European continent we are witnessing
dangerous signs of a possible renwal of the arms race. Such a trend
should be stopped, and such conditions changed."
H.E. Mr. Boris Tadic, President
27 September 2007
Terrorism: "Terrorism is one of the greatest scourages
of the present-day world. In order to fight and eradicate it effectively,
we must take a global, coordinated approach, as well as vigorous
actions at regional and country levels. Last year, Serbia hosted
the regional summit meeting on terrorism, organized crime and corruption."
Multilateralism/Security: "Serbia therefore considers
that only gathered together on common goals and objectives and united
in action we can make a vigorous stand against global threats to
international peace and security: terrorism, bellicose extremism,
mass poverty, organized crime, pandemic diseases and harmful consequences
of climate change."
H.E. Mr. Alvaro Uribe Velez, President
27 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Joseph Kabila Kabange, President
27 September 2007
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H.E. Dr. Jose Ramos-Horta, President
27 September 2007
North Korea's nuclear programme: "Timor-Leste commends
the six-party on North Korea who have achieved some positive results
in inducing North Korea to reverse its nuclear weapons capability.
This modest success shows that patient diplomacy may advance even
the most intractable conflicts when the parties involved identify
common concerns and interests."
Iran's nuclear programme: "On the other hand, Timor-Leste
is deeply concerned with the climate of mistrust and confrontation
as regards the situation in Iran. Iran is entitled to explore every
peaceful means to acquire technology that would make it less reliant
on non-renewable sources of energy. No one disputes such a right
for Iran or for any other nation. However, Iran must do more to
cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency and
to reassure its neighbors and the rest of the world that it is not
seeking to acquire nuclear weapons capability."
Nuclear Weapons: "Asia is the most nuclearized region
of the world. I don't know that we should be proud of such a status.
The Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD) is indeed madness as the
acronym itself suggests. Our scientists have developed Frankenstein
monsters that may well destroy us all - either by design if the
weapons fall into the hands of non-state actors or by accident."
Nuclear Weapons/Disarmament: "Those powers that possess
nuclear weapon should reengage and dismantle all such weapon and
other forms of weapons of mass destruction. History has shown us
how mighty empires and regimes built on terror and fear, have come
and gone, crumbled in spite of their arsenals."
H.E. Mr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, President
27 September 2007
Multilateralism: "Tanzania reaffirms its belief in
and commitment to multilateralism and the United Nations."
H.E. Obiang Nguema Mbsago, President
27 September 2007
Unofficial Translation
Security: "Equatorial Guinea participates in this General
Assembly with an uncertainty regarding the efforts of the United
Nations that are drowning in a vicious circle of good declarations
of principles, technical definitions, scientific and morally inspired,
but in the end they do not achieve the objectives of peace, security,
development and the well-being of Humanity, (objectives) that gave
birth to this World Organization."
Nuclear Testing/Chemical Weapons: "In effect, the fact
that in spite of various preventive resolutions, we focus our deliberations
this year on the deterioration of the atmosphere that now presents
a danger for Humanity, due to nuclear testing, the proliferation
of chemical industries for military (warlike) purposes that destroy
the vital elements of the environment, the use of chemical weapons
and of massive destruction in armed conflicts and the irrational
exploitation of renewable natural resources that destroy ecosystems,
activities that do not seek the common good of Humanity, but have
provoked the destruction of the Ozone and the decomposition of the
elements of atmospheric equilibrium, with the resulting natural
disasters that today threaten the equilibrium of the planet."
Terrorism: "Never has humanity been so threatened and
frighten by terrorism as in this past decade.
"The terrorism that was known as a method of settling accounts
with violent means by those who had been powerless to press their
demands through legal and democratic procedures, has now reached
a point that it is not justified by legitimate claims, much less
are its effects are directed only at the persons or institutions
against whom a right is claimed. Any third country today can be
a victim of terrorism.
"As a result, today terrorism is a menace to Humanity, that
violates the individual and collective liberties, impedes the exercise
of Democracy, violates the peace and security of nations and hinders
the development of peoples. All the countries of the world that
love peace, justice and liberty, have the duty and obligation to
combat this phenomenon that is a regression of the human species.
"If we want to combat terrorism and mercenary-hood, we must
count on well-developed internal security systems and maintain exchanges
of information among States."
H.E. Oscar Berger Perdomo, President
27 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Dr. Leonel Fernandez Reyna, President
27 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Dr. Jan Peter Balkenende, Prime Minister
27 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al Salem Al Sabah, Deputy Prime
Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2007
Security/WMD/Terrorism: "Last year's most outstanding
achievements, the establishment of a peace building committee, a
human rights council, an emergency humanitarian fund and a democracy
support fund, in additon to the work of the United Nations Secretariat,
are all considered necessary achievements, but are not enough to
combat terrorism, eliminate weapons of mass destruction, affect
climate change and acheive sustainable development in the developing
countries and the least developed ones.
"Moreover, the revival of racial bias, religious seditions,
incitement of hatred and xenophobia represent a serious threat to
international peace and security, qhich require a serious and firm
opposition from our strong organization."
Iran's nuclear programme: "As for the developments
in the Iranian nuclear dossier, and departing from our firm belief
of the necessesity to respect the principles of international legitimacy,
and the principle of resolving conflicts by peaceful means. The
State of Kuwait calls upon the international community to join efforts
and continue to work for the purpose of reaching a peaceful solution
to this crisis, and to spare the Gulf Region from any crisis that
would disrupt its security and stability. We also welcome the latest
agreement reached between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the IAEA,
as an important step on the road to dispel fears and doubts surrounding
the Iran Nuclear Program, it is our hope that dialogue and cooperation
will resume with total transparency, in as much as this would help
to create the conditions to make the Middle East a zone, free of
nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction."
Nuclear Weapons/NPT/Nuclear Energy: "Here, we demand
from the international community to pressure Israel to join the
Non-Proliferation Treaty and subject all its nuclear facilities
to the safeguards of the IAEA, while we stress the right of all
states in the region to obtain the technology and the know-how for
the peaceful uses of nuclear energy within the context allowed by
relevant international conventions."
Mr. Joao Bernardo Vieira, President
27 September 2007
Terrorism: "Terrorism and drugs trafficking are scourges
that threaten all of us and that can even gravely affect the stability
of a country."
H.E. Emanuel Mori, President
27 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Abdhallah Mohamed Sambi, President
27 September 2007
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H.E. Janez Jansa, Prime Minister
27 September 2007
Terrorism: "The international community must, within
the framework of the UN, complete the creation of mechanisms that
respond to the challenges of the 21st century. Finalizing the UN
Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism must remain
one of the key priorities."
H.E. Dr. Fakhruddin Ahmed, Honorable Chief Advisor
27 September 2007
Terrorism: "Bangladesh remains resolute in its relentless
campaign against international extremism and terrorism. We recently
acceded to the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts
of Nuclear Terrorism. Bangladesh is now a party to all terrorism-related
UN conventions, a testament to our commitment to fighting terrorism
in all its forms. On the domestic front, we have taken stem measures
against militant groups and their patrons. In particular, we categorically
reject the claims of those who cloak themselves in the rhetoric
of Islam to justify terrorism."
H.E. Mr. Albert Pintat, Head of Government
27 September 2007
H.E. General Surayud Chulanont (Ret.), Prime Minister
27 September 2007
Nuclear Energy: "At the same time, we seek to meet
our growing energy demand through renewable energy and bio-fuels.
We are also considering the option of nuclear energy, paying heed
to the crucial issue of safety."
Multilaterism: "As the world grows smaller every day,
humanity is sharing, more than ever, a common destiny. Our faith
in the UN and the multilateral process must be equal to the challenges
and opportunities facing us."
Terrorism: "But terrorism continues to draw its strength
from extremist ideologies. So, we must appeal to the majority in
the world who are moderates to join forces against extremism. Enhancing
inter-faith and intra-faith dialogue and dialogue among civilizations
should also take place at the regional level. We are doing this
in Southeast Asia."
Grand Chief Rt. Hon. Sir Michael T. Somare, Prime Minister
27 September 2007
Multilateralism/Small Arms and Light Weapons/Terrorism:
"Papua New Guinea remains committed to the principles and purposes
of the United Nations. We agree with you Mr President that we must:
continue to work with common purpose to renew, modernize and strengthen
this organization so it can rise to the challenges of the 21st century.
The increasing incidences of human atrocities, genocides and wars,
poverty, terrorism, HIVIAIDS and increase in malaria and TB, the
proliferation of small arms and light weapons, drug and human smuggling,
environmental degradation and climate change are issues which, we
believe, the UN is best placed to address."
Multilateralism: "Again we agree with you that: 'global
challenges demand multilateral solutions. The United Nations is
the appropriate multilateral forum to take action. This is why the
revitalization of this General Assembly deserves our highest attention.
To revitalize this House is also to renew our faith in each other,
our common values and destiny.'"
H.E. Mr. Sali Berisha, Prime Minister
27 September 2007
Terrorism: "We have established a close cooperation
with friendly countries and international organizations in the fight
against terrorism. In this regard, our peacekeeping units have served
or are serving in Bosnia, Georgia, Afghanistan and Iraq. I am delighted
to inform you that in this spirit my government has decided to contribute
another platoon to the UN peacekeeping operations."
WMD/Small Arms and Light Weapons/Security: "Albania
has been a staunch supporter of the international efforts to limit
the proliferation of arms of mass destruction and the unlawful use
of small arms and light weapons which pose a serious threat to peace,
security and stability. In this context, amongst others, we committed
to the destruction of our stockpile of chemical weapons and on July
2007, Albania became the first country in the world free of any
kind of chemical materials and armaments."
H.E. Nguyen Tan Dzung, Prime Minister
27 September 2007
Statement is currently only available in French, please check
back later.
H.E. Mr. Lansana Kouyaté, Prime Minister
27 September 2007
Statement is currently only available in French, please check
back later.
H.E. Mr. Martin Nduwimana, Vice-President
27 September 2007
Statement is currently only available in French, please check
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H.E. Mr. Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Vice-President
27 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Aja Dr. Isatou Njie-Saidy, Vice-President
27 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mr. Elias Camsek Chin, Vice-President
27 September 2007
Terrorism: "We note your call to ensure that the UN
as an organization and we, as Member States, are properly prepared
to confront terrorism. Palau has worked to improve its anti-terrorism
capacity. We have also met with the Counter Terrorism Executive
Directorate to advance our requests for assistance, particularly
in the area of combating money laundering and terrorism financing.
Unfortunately, the efforts of the Directorate have been insufficient.
Our hope is that during this 62nd session of the General Assembly,
the United Nations will be able to help smaller countries in addressing
this threat and meeting our Security Council obligations."
H.E. Mr. Zarifou Ayeva, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Integration
27 September 2007
Statement is currently only available in French, please check
back later.
H.E. Mr. David Miliband, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth
Affairs
27 September 2007
Iran's nuclear programme/Terrorism: "Our international
community depends on responsibilities as well as rights. If Iran
wants to be a leading and respected country, it must cease its support
for terrorist groups in Iraq and Afghanistan, and end its defiance
of three UN Security Council resolutions in respect of its nuclear
programme."
Multilateralism: "Because the causes of inequality
cross national boundaries, we need cooperation between nations,
bilateral and multilateral, led by the UN."
Arms Trade Treaty: "Beyond these crises, we need also
to improve our capacity to prevent the emergence of conflict.
That is our vision of the Responsibility to Protect. A critical
dimension is controlling the spread of weapons whose easy availability
makes it so simple to set up militias, and provoke violence and
mayhem. Last year this Assembly voted overwhelmingly to take forward
UN work towards an Arms Trade Treaty. The UK Government will continue
to press for this goal."
H.E. General Emile Lahoud, President
28 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mr. Kessai H. Note, President
28 September 2007
Multilateralism/WMD/Terrorism: "I remain hopeful that
the international community can have a consensus on taking forward
the necessary agreements to achieve lasting peace, security, and
diplomatic solutions to the seemingly endless web of issues. We
are so integrated and interconnected today that we all face equal
challenges, be it in terrorism or proliferation of nuclear weapons."
Terrorism: "I commend this august Assembly for adopting
last September the historic United Nations GIobal Counter-Terrorism
Strategy that will prevent the global scourge of terrorism. The
RMI remains committed in the fight against terrorism and we continue
to take action at the national level, as well as cooperating at
the regional and international levels to ensure that we combat terrorist
threats with comprehensive and unified action."
Disarmament/Non-proliferation: "In the area of disarmament
and non-proliferation, our collective efforts need to be invigorated
to overcome stalemate."
Nuclear Weapons: "Nuclear weapons and the testing conducted
in our islands in the past is a nightmare that continues to haunt
my people. The 67 atmospheric weapons detonated on my home island
of Bikini Atoll from 1946 to 1958 have inflicted pains and sufferings
amongst my people to this day. The Marshallese people were under
the care of the UN Trusteeship Council when the US Nuclear Testing
Program was in progress. Again and again, I call on the United Nations
and its agencies and Member States who share similar experiences
and have the expertise to assist us with the restoration of our
environment contaminated with radiation, and in providing the needed
assistance of my people's health care needs that are linked to radiation
exposure, as well as supporting the Marshall Islands' Changed Circumstances
Petition (CCP) submitted to the US Congress in 2000.
"I commend the work of the Assembly last session for adopting
a resolution requesting the United Nations Scientific Committee
on the Effects of Atomic Radiation to continue its work, including
its activities to increase knowledge of the levels, effects and
risks of ionizing radiation from all sources; and for requesting
the United Nations Environment Programme to continue providing support
for the work of the Scientific Committee and to review and strengthen
the Committee's present findings. I am confident that my people
will benefit from UNSCEAR's work noting that previous policy and
resettlement decisions based on misleading scientific opinions have
caused so much suffering among my people."
H.E. Mrs. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, President
28 September 2007
Multilateralism: "The number of global-size issues
we will face in the 21st century will require global-size cooperation.
We must build bridges of peace and prosperity. The place to start
is building a stronger United Nations."
H.E. The Honourable Tuila'epa Sailele Malielegaoi, Prime Minister
28 September 2007
Multilateralism: "Solutions to liberate our world from
the tyranny and fuility of war, the social and economic inequalities
that we are trapped in, and the uncontrolled and wild spread of
epidemic diseases, have all been mapped out. These have been discussed,
debated, negotiated and in most cases agreed to, over the life of
our organization.
"As with climate change, global long term challenges that
continue to remain unsolved should be approached collectively and
positively within the UN framework. An integrated approach is desireable
given the interconnectedness and the mutually reinforcing nature
of the issues. This calls for visionary and far-sighted statemen
and stateswomen who are not deterred to make the right decisions."
Multilateralism: "The world is one global family, and
no country exists in isolation. Inter-dependence is the norm, and
none is immune from the reaches of the global problems challenging
our very existence. As history has shown, no one country, however
powerful and willing can remain aloof and solve all these problems
on its own. The United Nations therefore remains the best means
to achieve multilateral cooperation in so many important areas.
With unity of purpose and mind amongst our UN membership, we would
have every reason to be optimistic in finding solutions to the problems
that beset our world."
Terrorism: "Terrorist acts committed the world over
under whatever pretext or purpose is deplorable and morally unjustified.
In its various forms and manifestations, terrorism is responsible
for the permanent scars of horror and fear that have gripped international
attention in recent years. Terrorism should therefore be condemned
in the strongest way possible to send out the message unequivocally
that it is neither accepted, nor condoned, and the perpetrators
should not expect any sympathy for their actions.
"Samoa is highly supportive of the UN Anti-Terrorism resolutions
and has put in place the legislative framework and implemented measures
in line with intergovernmental efforts to combat international terrorism."
H.E. The Honourable Dato' Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Prime Minister
28 September 2007
Multilateralism: "[I]t is Malaysia's view that such
national or regional initiatives must finally culminate in a truly
universal dialogue based in the multilateral inter-governmental
process. Its is only such a process which can establish binding
commitments. Indeed, success of such a dialogue has now become an
important caveat for securing the wider goals of global peace, security
and prosperity."
H.E. Dr. The Honourable Ralph E. Gonsalves, Prime Minister
28 September 2007
Multilateralism: "Mr. President, our recent history
has taught us that triumphalist, imperialist unilateralism is a
consistent cause, but infrequent solution, to the problems confronting
today's world. But it is in this moment, as the philosophy of unilateralist
misadventure is in its death throes, that a modern and multilateral
United Nations must seize the day, fill the vacuum, and live up
to the noble and immutable principles of its Charter.
"This modern, multilateral UN, under your Presidency, should
never sacrifice principle for an ignoble practicality, but instead
be suffused with a fairness that views the world through the eyes
not of imperial czars, indifferent diplomats or apathetic agencies,
to whom suffering is but a television event, easily erased with
the flick of a remote control button; but through the eyes of the
vast majority of the world's citizens, who struggle daily for survival,
who dodge bullets in their backyards, who coax a meager living from
parched and exhausted soils, and who have been globalised to the
brink of extinction. It is not idealistic or naive to assert that
engaged, fair and genuinely concerned states, working together,
can solve the seemingly intractable problems besetting our imperfect
planet. Our problems are largely man-made. So too shall be the solutions."
Multilateralism: "Mr. President, I conclude as you
have begun: by urging swift, effective multilateral action to tackle
the challenges of the modern world. As Cuban poet and national hero
Jose Marti once said, "It is a sin not to do what you are capable
of doing." By that measure, the UN's sins of omission and commission
are manifold and manifest, despite its successes; and our collective,
multilateral and principled penance must be measured even more by
our actions from this day forward."
H.E. Dr. The Honourable Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Prime Minister
28 September 2007
Security: "International peace and security constitute
the bedrock of our organization. We have come a long way since 1945
in securing peace and security in many parts of the world. However,
a lot remains to be accomplished in order to have a conflict-free
world. Conflicts in some parts of Africa continue to remain a major
source of concern to us. We are seriously preoccupied by the situation
in the Middle-East. The trail of violence and death continues to
plague the Middle East. In order to give peace a chance to have
a grip in these regions, and manifest its positive effects in the
day to day life of citizens, we need to redouble our efforts and
explore all possible avenues to achieve peace, stability and security
in the larger interests of the citizens of these countries."
Terrorism: "The world today is confronted with the
growing threats of terrorism be it home grown, cross-border, regional
or international. This scourge should be confronted with all the
means at the disposal of the international community. We also believe
that more effective and efficient mechanisms should be put in place
to lay hands on the financiers of terrorist organizations.
"The United Nations remains the bedrock in the fight against
terrorism. Mauritius has lent and will continue to lend its fullest
support to the numerous
initiatives and resolutions of the UN on counter terrorism.
"We are happy to note that the lnternational Convention for
the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism has already entered
into force as from
July this year."
H.E. Mr. Winston Baldwin Spencer, Prime Minister
28 September 2007
Multilateralism: "Let me at the outset unequivocally
state that multilateralism should be the preferred means for effecting
international peace, security and human development. There are some
who would prefer for multilateralism to recede and for the world
to be run by a few dominant powers. Those who are so inclined should
be reminded of the intent and purposes of the Charter of the United
Nations which, among other things, reaffirms the faith of humanity
in, and I quote, "fundamental human rights, in the dignity
and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women
and of nations large and small." End of quote. It is no small
wonder then that the crafters of the UN Charter pledged their determination
to, and I quote, "...employ international machinery for the
promotion of the economic and social advancement of ALL peoples."
End of quote."
Multilateralism/Security: "The challenges to peace,
security and development which require collective action have multiplied
immeasurably."
Multilateralism: "[T]here is a role for all nations,
large and small, that includes the firm resolve to strengthen the
multilateral system, in order to correct systemic imbalances that
hinder the achievement of the MDGs and other internationally agreed
development goals."
Multilateralism: "Indeed there is a role for ALL states.
It should therefore come as no surprise that Antigua and Barbuda
is of the view that small states can, and should play a crucial
role by being the voices of reason, the voices not shackled to dogmatic
positions which power necessitates. The absence of so-called 'high
power" allows small states to be pragmatic and practical in
coming up with solutions to some of the most pressing international
problems."
Small Arms and Light Weapons/Security: "Related to
the problem of drug related crimes and the proliferation of hand
guns, Antigua and Barbuda reiterates its call for strengthening
and implementation of the various UN treaties on small arms and
light weapons. The scale and scope of the disruptions and destruction
caused by the proliferation of small arms in the hands of unemployed
youth in the Caribbean is tremendous.
Here, too, small developing states, which produce no weapons, are
confronted by the tragedy wrought by guns manufactured in countries
which fail to control, and which appear untroubled by the ease with
which their weapons of death cross international borders. Even a
miniscule increase in violent crime has a negative impact on development
in small island states. These perspectives should inform the international
debate on peace and security."
Terrorism: "All countries, large and small, have a
national interest in eliminating the threat to development posed
by international terrorism. Antigua and Barbuda continues to play
its part by adhering to the various anti-terrorism resolutions of
the United Nations; including our obligations under UN Security
Council Resolutions 1540, 1373, among others. Additionally, we have
taken the added initiative to enact our own national legislative
requirement by way of our National Anti-Terrorism Act of Parliament
in 2005."
Terrorism: "Combating international terrorism should
not depend on the trampling of religious and cultural diversity
and individual rights and freedoms. Cultural and religious intolerance
and prejudice; and the stifling of cultural diversity will only
serve to perpetuate the causes of terrorism."
H.E. Mr. Zeljko Sturanovic, Prime Minister
28 September 2007
Multilateralism: "Today is the right time for each
country, and in particular for smallei and developing countries,
to ask and answer the question on the role of muldateralism as the
superior discourse in the changing contemporary world. Multilateralism
provides a framework for choosing those democratic, development
and cultural options that can most effectively respond to the major
challenges that lie ahead, be it preservation of peace and security,
climate change, development processes, fight against terrorism or
protection of human rights. Montenegro stands ready to actively
participate in making these principles reality, recognizing the
importance of multdateral organisations, in particular the UN."
Terrorism: "With a view to satisfying legrimate security
interests of nations, we must be unified and decisive in tackhng
terrorism, which continues to threaten the world. The UN Strategy
and Action Plan to counter terrorism are of great importance and
call for an agreement on a comprehensive convention on international
terrorism."
H.E. Commodore Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, Prime Minister and
Commander of the Military Forces
28 September 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mr. Stephenson King, Prime Minister, Minister of Finance,
External Affairs, Home Affairs and National Security
28 September 2007
Security/Small Arms/Disarmament and Development: "For
small states peace and security are critical to our sustainable
development. Thus, the spread of small arms to our region continues
to be an especially disturbing issue, and is a major contributing
factor to crime and insecurity. This is particularly ironic given
the fact that neither arms nor ammunition are produced in our region.
We therefore call on those states that produce small arms and ammunition
to enact appropriate measures to reduce the illicit export which
threatens the security and stability of the Caribbean."
H.E. Mr. Mahmoud Abbas, Chairman of the Executive Committee of
the Palestinian Liberation Organization and President of the Palestinian
Authority
28 September 2007
Statement is currently only available in Arabic, please check
back later.
Mr. José María Pereria Neves, Prime Minister
28 September 2007
Terrorism: "I'm referring to climate changes and, organized
crime and to the different of course, to terrorism, to kinds of
trafficking which represent a threat to human security and to the
Democratic Rule of Law itself, as they corrupt values, compromise
development and thwart the most legitimate expectations of peoples."
Multilaterism: "Nor are there local solutions to the
global threats of our era. Responses to these issues will not be
effective unless within a robust, balanced and fair multilateral
perspective. The UN is, and should continue to be, the basis, the
guarantor and the congregating center for multilateralism."
H.E. Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Prime Minister
28 September 2007
Multilateralism: "Our world today needs, more than
ever before, effective cooperation to find common solutions to our
global problems, to replace desperation with hope, poverty with
prosperity, injustice with justice and violence with peace around
the world.
"The United Nations, created precisely for this mission, is
the only international forum that can possibly, with our collective
resolve, lead us to these objectives. The UN is also the source
of international legitimacy for our actions to these ends."
Terrorism: "Terrorism continues to threaten the security
of all free nations. An act of terror committed in any part of the
world in essence targets us all as it constitutes a heinous crime
against humanity. We condemn in the strongest terms this scourge
that recognizes no national boundaries. As the Prime Minister of
a nation who has experienced first hand the bitter consequences
of terrorism, I renew from this rostrum my appeal to the international
community for an enhanced collective commitment and cooperation
in the combat against this threat to humanity in its entirety.
"Considering the sophisticated new technologies terrorist elements
are utilizing today, effective international cooperation to prevent
the proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction takes on a whole
new meaning and urgency. Turkey strongly supports UN led efforts
to intensify international cooperation in preventing their proliferation."
H.E. Mr. Fiorenzo Stolfi, Head of Government and Minister for
Foreign and Political Affairs and Economic Planning
28 September 2007
Terrorism: "My Country welcomes the adoption of this
initiative, which further stresses the need to join our efforts
in support of dialogue among cultures and religions, as an instrument
to strengthen the climate of confidence indispensable to promote
peace, prevent conflicts and combat the threat of discrimination,
racism, violence and terrorism."
H.E. Mr. Jean Asselborn, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for
Foreign Affairs and Immigration
28 September 2007
Statement is currently only available in French, please check
back later.
H.E. Mr. Abdelwaheb Abdallah, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007
Multilateralism: "[T]here is a need to design new frameworks
and new mechanisms of action that would reinforce the underpinnings
of international peace and security and allow achieving collective
solutions to the common challenges facing the international community.
In so doing, we should be inspired by an
innovative approach that lays foundation to a global, comprehensive,
efficient and solidarity based partnership between different components
of the international community, on the basis of constructive dialogue
between peoples, cultures civilizations and religions."
Terrorism: "Tunisia has been since the early nineties
among the very ht to draw countries' attention to the dangers of
terrorism and the impact of this phenomenon on security and stability
in the world. Today, Tunisia would like to renew its call for the
holding of an international conference under the auspices of the
United Nations in order to elaborate an international code of conduct
for the prevention of terrorism, by which the parties would abide.
Multilateralism: "Since the inception of the United
Nations, Tunisia has been expressing constant faith in the noble
principles and objectives of the organization. It has always been
committed to lending its support to the efforts aimed at creating
fkvorable conditions for elaborating appropriate collective responses
to global common challenges and for solving several problems that
are a source of concern to the world as well as establishing solidarity
based cooperation and partnership between all components of the
international community."
Disarmament/Security: "Stemming from that position,
Tunisia which will assume chairmanship of the next session of the
Conference on Disarmament is determined to work, in coordination
with member states, for the achievement of tangible progress regarding
issues on the agenda. In so doing, Tunisia will seek to enhance
constructive and positive dialogue on those issues, in order to
achieve the objectives of the Conference and to contribute to the
consolidation of peace and security in the world and to the dissemination
of a global culture of peace, thus consecrating the noble values
and principles for which our organization has been created."
H.E. Mr. Sergey Viktorovich Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007
Terrorism/WMD/Disarmament/Military Spending: "The conflict
range that is expanding in international politics through aggravations
of regional crises, increasing threat of terrorism, risks of spreading
WMDs, stagnation in disarmament, is jeopardizing international stability,
diverting resources from their constructive use and calls into question
possible sustainable economic growth throughout the world. And it
is such growth that is our common fundamental goal. Poverty and
economic backwardness expand the breeding grounds for extremism."
Terrorism: "There is a pressing need to use any means
available to strengthen the leading role of the UN in fighting terrorism.
The Organization's activities here should be based on a comprehensive
framework, including the Global Counterterrorism Strategy adopted
last year. The Collective Security Treaty Organization is contributing
to these efforts, and has established useful interaction with the
United Nations. Our efforts to achieve resolution of regional conflicts
and urgent social and economic problems should form part of our
efforts to counteract terrorism."
Non-Proliferation/Nuclear Energy: “Urgent steps are
needed to strengthen the non-proliferation regime while providing
legitimate access of all the states to the benefits of the peaceful
use of nuclear energy. The joint initiative of the presidents of
Russia and the United States put forward at their meeting in Kennebunkport
is called to start joint practical work in this field.”
Multilaterism/Security: “Russia will spare no effort
to strengthen multilateral cooperation within the framework of the
United Nations. I am convinced that with a continued commitment
to the principles of the UN Charter we could make progress in the
creation of an effective system of collective security as was the
will of the founding fathers of the World Organization.”
Non-Proliferation/Iran: "Complex problems require an
integrated approach. This is particularly true for the situation
around Iran. The goal of nuclear non-proliferation is an absolute
priority, whereas we should not ignore the task of engaging Iran
in constructive efforts to resolve regional and international issues."
Conventional Weapons/Security: "The principle of indivisibility
of security should form the basis for resolving the situation around
the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE). Russia
stands ready for this; our proposals are well known. We expect that
the proposals would be seriously discussed during the upcoming consultations."
Weapons/Outer Space: "The possibility of deploying
weapons in space brings about a serious threat. Its threat is determined
by the global coverage, which can put into danger all states without
exception. We are consistently opposing deploying in space weapons
of any type and call upon the international community to conclude
an agreement to that effect."
H.E. Mr. Yang Jiechi, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007
North Korea's nuclear programme: "China remains committed
to seeking a peaceful solution to the nuclear issue on the Korean
Peninsula through dialogue to uphold peace and stability on the
Peninsula and in northeast Asia. The Six-Party Talks have become
an important platform for the parties concerned to maintain dialogue
and consulations on realizing denuclearization on the Peninsula,
normalizing relations between the countries concerned and building
a new harmonious architecture in northeast Asia. We will continue
to play a constructive role in advancing the process of the Six-Party
Talks and denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula."
Iran's nuclear programme/Non-proliferation/Nuclear Energy:
"Diplomatic negotiations are the best option for resolving
the Iranian nuclear situation peacefully and meet the common interests
of the international community. China opposes nuclear weapon proliferation
and stands for upholding the international nuclear non-proliferation
regime and peace and stability in the Middle East. No non-proliferation
efforts should deviate from the goal of upholding international
peace and stability. Countries should honor their due international
obligations, and their right to peaceful use of nuclear energy should
be fully respected. China urges the parties concerned to show flexibility
and resume negotiations at an early date. China will continue to
contribute its share to the peaceful settlement of the Iranian nuclear
issue."
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007
Terrorism: "Six years ago, we, the representatives of
the international community, stood united and in solidarity with
one another in the face of international terrorism. In all our languages,
faiths, and cultures, we expressed our condemnation of any terrorist
acts that targets innocent civilians. We deplored such acts then
resolved to work seriously to combat this grave and alarming phenomenon.
We agreed to work seriously, not only to deal with terrorism from
a security perspective, but also to achieve long-awaited breakthroughs
in the old crises and conflicts, and due to their complexity and
longevity, they have become incubators for the desperate and the
hopeless in our region in particular. Those conflicts feed their
sense of injustice and despair and through them into the ranks of
those who hold dark extremist ideas that know violence as the only
means, and even sometimes as an end in itself.
"We all prepared ourselves for action .... there was a widespread
belief in the Middle East that major breakthroughs were imminent..
..that the successful containment and eradication of international
terrorism will take place not only through security operations,
but also in parallel through the equally important draining of its
intellectual sources and the freezing of its financial assets.
"However, we seem to have gone astray during those six years.
"Our objectives were fragmented and so our energies were spread
thin. We failed as an international community to maintain the huge
momentum generated in this very hall in September 2001...that momentum
which found expression in our resolve to work together to defuse
the tension in our region as a step towards the settlement of its
chronic political conflicts.
"Narrow -minded, domestic political agendas have been imposed
by some, and unwise objectives have replaced the lofty ones for
which we had planned to achieve. Instead of focusing on the eradication
of the hotbeds of international terrorism, which were not numerous
six years ago, we lost sight of our main objective. The eradication
of international terrorism was no longer the objective, but rather
turned into a loose slogan. There was oppression, torture and humiliation,
and, on the other end, despicable violence and more vicious acts
of terror.
"This came as no surprise to us.. . since the objective was
lost."
Security: "Any attempt to achieve stability and spread
peace and security in the world without a serious settlement of
the Palestinian question and the Arab-Israeli conflict will not
meet with success and is doomed to fail. The opposite is also true.
Serious and sustained action for the achievement of a just and comprehensive
settlement of that conflict directly serves international peace
and security and contributes to the stabilization of the Middle
East. All are aware of the importance of Middle East stability for
the stability of the world at large."
Disarmament/Non-Proliferation/Nuclear Energy: "Egypt
profoundly believes in the three main pillars of international disarmament
treaties namely; non-proliferation, disarmament, and the inherent
right of every state to the peaceful use of nuclear energy. In 1995,
Egypt accepted the indefinite extension of the NPT within an integrated
package that included a resolution calling upon all states of the
region without exception to accede to the Treaty, and obliging those
states responsible for the maintenance of international security
to discharge their responsibilities. However, this objective is
yet to be achieved in view of the fact that Israel has not yet acceded
to the treaty despite all the international and regional calls on
it to do so.
"Today's world is witnessing an imbalance and double standards
in dealing with the various parties that have the ambition, the
potential or the expertise in the field of nuclear uses. Egypt believes
that the international disarmament and non-proliferation system
will be strengthened and that regional security in the Middle East
will be reinforced only when a single standard is applied equally
to all the states of the region without exception."
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister for
Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007
Terrorism/Nuclear Weapons: "Our world still suffers
from a wide range of issues, conflicts and threats, among the most
visible of which are the spread of poverty and epidemics worldwide,
the degradation of the natural environment, terrorism, organised
crime, the spread of extremism and violations of human rights, as
well as attempts to obtain nuclear weapons."
Nuclear Weapons/Disarmament/Nuclear Energy: "Having
followed the progress of and challenges to the current international
negotiations on comprehensive nuclear disarmament, in particular
the preparatory meetings for the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty
(NPT) Review Conference, we stress that collective regional and
international security requires that there should be a universal,
fair and balanced international policy that guarantees the universal
compliance of all states with the Global Nuclear Non-Proliferation
Regime and requires states possessing nuclear weapons to live up
to their obligations to dismantle their weapons of mass destruction,
WMD. This, at the same time, must safeguard the inalienable right
of all nations, developing nations in particular, to seek and acquire
nuclear power in accordance with the system of safeguards laid down
by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)."
Iran's nuclear programme: "In this regard, the United
Arab Emirates welcomes the recent agreement between the IAEA and
Iran on a fixed time schedule for IAEA inspectors to solve the outstanding
issues concerning Iran's nuclear programme. We hope that talks among
all concerned parties will eventually lead to a permanent peaceful
solution that will spare the region from further tensions and encounters
and will help to assure countries in the region that they will not
be faced with any threats to security or to their environment."
Nuclear Weapons: "We reaffirm our belief that Israel
should not be excluded from the terms of the Nonproliferation Treaty
on nuclear weapons, as its possession of such weapons poses a danger
to the whole region."
Terrorism/Security: "The United Arab Emirates works
with both regional and international efforts to fight all forms
of terrorism, including associated money laundering, in compliance
with the relevant resolutions of the United Nations and its affiliated
bodies. We also reaffirm our support for all efforts to promote
dialogue among cultures and civilizations and inter-faith tolerance.
These, we believe, can make a significant contribution to the promotion
of global security and peace."
Multilateralism: "Based on our belief in the significance
of global multi-lateralism and of the UN's vital role, we continue
our support for the efforts aimed at the reform of the organization..."
Terrorism: "Implementing at a domestic level its approach
to regional and international co-operation, the United Arab Emirates
has enacted laws to counter terrorist crimes and money laundering
and has frozen suspect bank accounts."
H.E. Ms. Ursula Plassnik, Federal Minister for European and International
Affairs
28 September 2007
Multilateralism/Disarmament: "We can all feel a sense
of urgency at this 62nd General Assembly: the need to counter contemporary
challenges with decisive joint action, Climate change, disarmament
and dangerous technologies are just three examples requiring such
joint action, now."
Multilateralism: "Let me thus call for re-launching
effective multilateralism. And let me make the case for a new global
partnership - the joint search for sustainable joint solutions.
United by a shared sense of responsibility and purpose.
"The very concept of partnership is key in addressing the
new challenges, both inside our societies and in the global village.
Partnership is an eye-to-eye level approach, based on recognizing
and respecting each other as equals. Partnership is a demanding
offer: who wants to be treated as a partner has to behave as a partner.
"We know: none of us, not even the strongest can master the
challenges of the 21st century on his or her own. In the age of
globalization unilateralism and nationalism are dead-end streets.
They simply do not achieve effective and durable results. We thus
need both global processes and global objectives. We need to actively
engage to build confidence and counter the erosion of trust that
so often breeds unilateral action."
Disarmament/Non-proliferation/Multilateralism: "Disarmament,
arms control and conflict prevention are next in need of a credible
re-launch of multilateralism and a new partnership. In the nuclear
age, we simply cannot afford to acquiesce to the present level of
armament and to signs of a new arms race. Nonproliferation and an
actual reduction of the weapons stockpiles thus have to make an
immediate come-back to the top of the global agenda."
Disarmament/Cluster Munitions: "On limited issues multilateral
progress is within reach: a consistently growing number of states
is rallying behind our call for a legally binding instrument by
2008 to prohibit cluster munitions which cause unacceptable harm
to civilians. Austria is determined to continue leading this process
by example, with a total national ban of this atrocious weapon."
Nuclear Energy/Nuclear Weapons: "Nuclear technology
is a third field for a new global partnership. The world turns nuclear,
whether we like it or not. This in itself is regrettable for countries
like Austria who have renounced nuclear energy altogether because
we believe it is a dangerous and nonsustainable source of energy.
Inevitably, the rise of nuclear power across the globe will lead
to more and more tensions with regard to the nature - for energy
purposes or for weapons development - of national nuclear programmes.
There is a highly dangerous "grey zone" between what is
permitted and what is possible."
Nuclear Energy: "A new global partnership where sensitive
parts of the nuclear fuel cycle are multilateralized could offer
a way out. We should create a regime in which enrichment facilities
would be placed under the control of the IAEA. The Agency would
guarantee adequate fuel supply to those who fulfil strict non-proliferation
criteria through an international "nuclear fuel bank".
This would help to dissuade tensions and make new national enrichment
facilities superfluous."
Iran's nuclear programme: "At present, the Iranian
nuclear program - for many reasons - is deeply upsetting for the
entire international community, not just for some of us. Iran should
take these concerns very seriously. It is clearly up to Iran to
dispel any shadow of doubt over the nature of her program, by providing
undisputable proof to the world's "nuclear watchdog",
the IAEA, now. Like many others, we strongly support Director-General
ElBaradei's appeal for a double time-out and urge Iran to heed to
this call."
Multilateralism: "Austria believes in the power of
partnership where equality, mutual trust and respect for diversity
overcome the crude logic of power. From our experience, effective
global partnership best builds on both regional partnerships and
regional ownership."
Small Arms and Light Weapons: "Burkina Faso and Austria
will co-host a conference in Ouagadougou in November on how to create
sustainable peace. This meeting will unite participants from ECOWAS
countries and Europe in an endeavour to provide a common input to
the Lisbon summit - by furthering policies of good neighbourhood,
rule of law and good governance; by fighting the proliferation of
small arms and light weapons; by creating employment for young people;
and by actively promoting the education of girls."
Security: "Our peoples expect from their leadership
nothing less than a life in dignity, but above all - a life in freedom
from fear and in freedom from want. If we are truly committed to
human security it is essential that we make every effort to meet
the Millennium Development Goals, by determined, concerted action
to eradicate poverty and hunger, to promote equality between men
and women and to protect our planets' resources. The Austrian Government
has made it an explicit priority to actively live up to the rising
challenges."
H.E. Mr. Ivailo Kalfin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for
Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007
Unofficial Translation from French
Disarmament/Non-proliferation/Nuclear Weapons/Iran's nuclear
programme: "Non-proliferation of weapons of massive destruction,
arms control, and disarmament continue to occupy the the international
community. The reinforcement of the regime of Treaty on the non-proliferation
of nuclear weapons in order to make [the Treaty] universal, remains
one of large the priorities of our time. It is unfortunate that
there has been no progress on the question of Iran's nuclear programme."
Small Arms and Light Weapons/Arms Trade Treaty: "Bulgaria
reaffirms its support for the UN action plan against the illicit
trade of small arms and light weapons. We are firmly engaged in
the process of work aiming to adopt in the near future an international
treaty on the trade of the weapons."
Terrorism: "My country condemns terrorism without ambiguity,
and rejects terrorist ideology under all their forms and demonstrations.
Terrorism is not limited to a specific culture or religion. The
UN is held to continue to play a central role in the mobilization
of the international community to facethis threat, and the political
extremism associated with it.
"To successfully fight terrorism, it is essential to approach
the fundamel problems such as under-development, to overcome prejudices
and stereotypes, and to promote tolerance in a world of diversity.
THis is why Buglaria joined the group the Alliance of Civilizations,
while fully supporting other complementary initiatives."
Multilateralism: "For mulitlateralism to be effective,
it would benefit from a robust partnership between the UN and regional
organizations."
Security/Multilateralism: "Regional and sub-regional
cooperation have always constituted an important part of the world
system of collective security. Peace and stability are firmly entrenched
when the local community and their neighbours live in harmony."
H.E. Mr. Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmed Bin Mohamed Al-Khalifa, Minister
of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007
Security/Multilateralism: "We should realise that international
security is based on joint efforts to guarantee regional security
and the stability of states. At the same time, international peace
requires respect for international legitimacy, the rule of law,
guaranteeing justice and strengthening multilateralism."
Nuclear Weapons/Terrorism/Multilateralism: "Since comprehensive
development is a national and international requirement, it is important
for us to face in a collective and serious manner all forms of threats,
such as conflicts, wars, nuclear proliferation, terrorism, environmental
disasters, poverty, backwardness, and extremism, in accordance with
the principles and goals stated in the United Nations Charter and
the resolutions and decisions adopted by the General Assembly, including
the United Nations Millennium Declaration."
Security/Multilateralism: "In the decades after the
establishment of the United Nations Organization, our world witnessed
both unipolar and bipolar systems. The universal development of
events, and the results that emanated therefrom, it proved that
these systems were not enough in guaranteeing security, peace, stability
and prosperity in the world. Therefore, the time is now right to
enable everybody to participate effectively in our universal system,
which is based on a just multilateralism that guarantees collective
work toward achieving its goals."
Non-proliferation/Nuclear Weapons/Iran's nuclear programme/Nuclear
Energy : "The Kingdom of Bahrain has become a member of
the International Atomic Energy Agency, through its conviction of
the important role played by the Agency in strengthening the nuclear
non-proliferation regime. In order to avoid a nuclear arms race
in the Middle East; the Kingdom of Bahrain underlines the importance
of freeing the region fiom nuclear weapons. It therefore urges the
concerned parties, including the Islamic Republic of Iran, to be
more transparent and to cooperate fully in accordance with the Nuclear
Non-Proliferation Treaty, so as to build confidence among neighbouring
states in the Gulf.The Kingdom of Bahrain reaffirms the
right of all states to utilize nuclear power for peaceful purposes.
It also demands that Israel place all its nuclear facilities under
the safeguards regime of the IAEA, and to become a party to the
NPT in order to promote the Treaty's universality."
H.E. Mr. George Yeo, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007
Multilateralism/Terrorism: "Whether it is climate change,
global pandemics, the fight against terrorism, the multilateral
trading system or international finance, we need better global governance.
During the Cold War, the world was divided into two camps with each
superpower taking the lead in its own sphere. That era is behind
us. A multi-polar world is crystallising. On no major issue now
can one country, however powerful, act on its own in complete disregard
of the views of others."
H.E. Mr. Sergei N. Martynov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007
Multilateralism: "At the turn of the century systems
based on antagonism and confrontation are becoming a thing of the
past. The sand of time is inexorably flowing out of them. New systems
must replace them - international systems based on partnership."
Multilateralism: "Though still split by the old paradigm
of confrontation between North and South and the imposed myths of
confrontation between 'developed and developing' states, the myths
of a 'conflict of civilisations', the international community should
through its actions today build a practical partnership that will
form the foundation for new systems of world order. Where we succeed
in working together, there we will be able to tackle the most serious
'problems."
Terrorism: "Let us take the subject of terrorism. Force
alone - be it the most powerful and the most elaborate - cannot
overcome terrorism. Such measures rather cause terror to spiral
up. All of us come to realise this but painllly. On the other hand,
having understood the true impact of poverty, inequality, social
vulnerability, illiteracy on the rise of extremism and terrorism,
having addressed the fight against terrorism through joint and comprehensive
efforts, we have started to undermine the very foundation of terrorism.
The decisive role in this, in our opinion, belongs to the United
Nations."
Nuclear Energy: "Acute perception by Belarus of climate
change and environment protection issues is not accidental. Just
like our neighbours - the Russian Federation and Ukraine, for the
past two decades Belarus has been dealing with the consequences
of the deadliest man-made disaster of the 20th century - accident
at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant."
Nuclear Energy: "We have learned a lot from overcoming
'the consequences of the Chernobyl disaster. We have gained a unique
experience. We have collected and analysed a considerable volume
of scientific data on the effects of nuclear radiation. We are ready
to share this information and to take an active part in the work
of the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic
Radiation (UNSCEAR)."
Multilateralism: "Tomorrow belongs to the positive
ideas and actions, to the engagement and cooperation for peace,
in the common interest of the entire international community."
H.E. Mr. Abdelelah Al-Khatib, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007
Terrorism: "Confronting terrorism and extremism requires
more effective international cooperation and dictates activating
channels of cultural and religious dialogue, especially within the
United Nations system. At the same time, there is an urgent need
to refrain from Islamophobia and from causing anomisity to this
tolerant religion."
Multilateralism: "Today's world requires a more effective
United Nations role in addressing international challenges, such
as climate change, terrorism, international crime, poverty, hunger,
infectious diseases; and increasing factional, sectarian, and ethnic
conflicts."
H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos Cuyaubé, Minister
for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
28 September 2007
Multilateralism: "We know today that States alone cannot
effectively deal with the global agenda and guarantee human development
in a world that is ever more uncertain and interdependent, though
not less stimulating and creative.
"Means exist in the universal, regional, and bilateral dimensions,
as well as in its multiple interrelations. The structures and organizations
that the international community has built with so much effort are
a complex framework that we must reform, strengthen and update.
Spain promotes an effective multilateralism, inspired by values
and principles sustained by the people."
Arms: "We must place the power of words before that
of arms, trust before mistrust, commitment before fear and, in the
face of disagreement, we must place dialogue and effective concerted
action.
Terrorism: "Peace is possible and necessary, and we
are advancing towards it despite being hit by terrorism, a severe
threat to peace and security. This global violence aims to undermine
stability of free and democratic societies and, as we agreed one
year ago in the Global Strategy Against Terrorism, we must prevail
over that violence by coordinating our efforts and responding collectively.
"We are glad that in our determination to defeat terrorism,
victims and their families have not been forgotten, and that the
international community continues to be encouraged to show respect
for them. I believe that it is a just acknowledgement, and without
it, the strategy against global terrorism would be incomplete."
H.E. Mr. Song Min-soon, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade 28 September 2007
Multilateralism: "Today's global challenges require
a collective response. Ever-widening globalization has brought with
it a growing role for the United Nations. By virtue of its universality,
the UN is the right body to deal with these global issues. No other
organization can provide the legitimacy and authority that the United
Nations offers.
"The UN has played an indispensable role in setting international
norms and principles. It has pointed States and peoples in the right
direction. By enhancing predictability and rule-based interaction
between and among nations, the UN is able to prevent conflicts of
interest from erupting into crises. These are the quiet successes
of the United Nations that often go unnoticed, precisely because
the Organization helps to keep the international system running
smoothly."
Security: "Development, human rights, and peace and
security are the three pillars of the United Nations. They are all
imperatives, and they are mutually reinforcing."
Terrorism: "Terrorism continues to be one of the gravest
challenges of our times. The Republic of Korea strongly condemns
terrorism in all forms, committed by whomever, wherever and for
whatever purposes. We fully support the ongoing global anti-terrorism
efforts. The Republic of Korea is party to 12 existing anti-terrorism
conventions, while being in the process of ratifying the latest
International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear
Terrorism. We also view that the United Nations should lose no more
time in concluding a comprehensive convention on terrorism."
Non-proliferation/WMD/Delivery Systems: "The proliferation
of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and their delivery systems
pose an ever increasing threat to the international community. To
curb WMD proliferation, our highest priority must be to restore
the integrity and relevance of the global nuclear non-proliferation
regime."
Non-proliferation/Multilateralism/Nuclear Energy: "In
fact, the NPT regime is at a crossroads. It has faced unprecedented
challenges in recent years. In responding to these challenges, we
need to pool our wisdom to strengthen the current nuclear non-proliferation
regime. The inherent deficiencies in the NPT should be remedied,
and effective multilateral tools should be further developed to
better serve the purposes of both nuclear nonproliferation and the
peaceful use of nuclear energy. As home to the world's sixth-largest
civil nuclear energy industry, the Republic of Korea regards the
peaceful use of nuclear energy as crucial to our sustainable energy
supply and economic development. This is all the more reason why
we support strengthened safeguards against possible proliferation
as a guarantor for the expanded use of nuclear energy for peaceful
purposes."
North Korea's nuclear programme: "Among the proliferation
challenges facing the international community, the nuclear issue
of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) requires our
immediate attention. This problem, if not resolved soon, will seriously
undermine the NPT regime. It also has significant implications for
peace and security in Northeast Asia and beyond.
"The Six-Party Talks are the main vehicle through which to
resolve the DPRK nuclear issue. This process has made significant
progress since its launch in 2003. In the Joint Statement of September
2005, the six nations agreed on a blueprint for the denuclearization
of the Korean Peninsula. The Initial Actions Agreement of February
this year took that consensus forward another step, laying out the
specific actions to implement the Joint Statement. We hope that
another agreement will be reached during the new round of the Six-Party
Talks now underway in Beijing, leading to the disabling of the DPRK's
nuclear facilities.
"On the Korean Peninsula, inter-Korean relations will be taken
to a higher level with the Summit Meeting to be held in Pyongyang
next week between President Roh Moo-hyun and Chairman Kim Jong-il.
The Summit will first of all aim at consolidating peace on the Korean
Peninsula. The DPRK will be encouraged to move forward on the path
to denuclearization. In the same vein, the leaders will explore
ways to increase mutual trust through political and military confidence-building
measures, as well as ways to lay the groundwork for an eventual
Inter-Korean Economic Community.
"With progress in the denuclearization process, a new peace
regime will be established on the Korean Peninsula to replace the
half-century old armistice. The deepening of inter-Korean relations
and the improvement of ties between the DPRK and other countries
concerned will warrant such a change.
"The resolution of the DPRK nuclear issue will thus have a
ripple effect, extending its benefits well beyond the Korean Peninsula.
The denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula will strengthen the
NPT regime, serving as a useful example of a negotiated solution
for similar problems in other parts of the world including those
in the Middle East. A peace process on the Korean Peninsula will
open the path to a regional security dialogue, and the resultant
improvement in Northeast Asian security will further strengthen
regional and global cooperation for peace and prosperity. This may
be an optimistic view. But it is important that we see not only
the threats and challenges in our world, but also the opportunities.
With the ongoing Six-Party Talks and next week's Inter-Korean Summit,
we see a real opportunity for change. And we hope that our partners
in this process will help us transform today's uncertainty into
tomorrow's stability and prosperity."
Multilateralism: "Our efforts in Northeast Asia are
a testament to the importance of diplomacy and international cooperation,
as exemplified by the United Nations. Even the most daunting challenges
can be overcome when nations join forces to share the burden."
H.E. Mrs. Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir,
Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade
28 September 2007
Military: "As a small, dynamic state without a military
it is our natural inclination to look for the peaceful settlement
of disputes within the international community."
Disarmament/Non-proliferation/Arms Trade Treaty/Security:
"Clearly, a major threat to human security as well as state
security is the proliferation of arms. Iceland regrets the current
situation in the fields of arms control, disarmament and nonproliferation.
Despite sustained efforts by the majority of Member States over
a number of years, only limited progress has been achieved, some
of it outside the UN framework. Our failures in this area pose a
constant threat to peace and security. Now is the time to renew
our efforts. The conclusion of an arms trade treaty would certainly
be a significant achievement."
His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister for Foreign
Affairs and Trade
28 September 2007
Multilateralism: "We were most encouraged by your acceptance
speech [Mr. President] and your plans for the future. You expressed
strong support for multi-lateral solutions to world problems and
we were pleased to hear this. We certainly agree with the need for
the United Nations to strengthen its central position in the multilateral
system."
H.E. Dr. Moussa Okanla, Minister for Foreign Affairs, African
Integration, La Francophonie and Benineses
28 September 2007
Statement is currently only available in French, please check
back later.
H.E. Mr. Adrian Mihai Cioroianu, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007
Unofficial Translation
Multilateralism: "Romania remains firmly attached to
its engagement in favour of efficient multilateralism on all the
three pillars of the United Nations' activity: peace and security,
human rights, sustainable development."
Terrorism: "The prevention and combat of terrorism
needs effective multilateralism based on the standards of international
law. ... The general activity against terrorism imposes measurements
in order to dissolve the groups involved in terrorist activities,
by means of international cooperation. The fight against terrorism
must be pitiless, but, nevertheless, it must respect the rights
and the fundamental liberties of human beings. The combat of terrorism
should also address its social and economic roots. In order to fight
the threats and the risks to safety posed by international terrorism,
the international community needs to better coordinate itself and
consult each other in full confidence.
"No country an ensure its own safety all alone. Romania supports
the efforts made by the international organizations, regional and
sub-regional, aiming at the consolidation of international solidarity
against terrorism, in conformity with the international law and
in cooperation with the bilateral plan in order to prevent and fight
this threat."
Non-proliferation/Nuclear Energy: "The Non-Proliferation
Treaty (NPT) remains the pillar of the international legal status
in the field of nuclear non-proliferation and also an essential
instrument to promote international peace and security. Despite
all the difficulties over the years, the NPT preserved its relevance
and significance. The rigorous observation of the norms of the Treaty
represents fundamental elements of the international system of security.
"The equilibrium returned by the rights and the obligations
registered in Treaty is essential for the stability of the international
system. In this direction, the maintenance of the fundamental principles
of the Treaty, the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and international
cooperation in the field, and the guarantees with regard to observation
of the obligations of non-proliferation are essential.
"Romania attaches much importance to the development of nuclear
energy and the promotion of the peaceful applications in fields
like medicine, industry, agriculture and in other fields of public
utility. Romania [sees] nuclear energy as an alternate energy in
the context of the Protocol of Kyoto."
WMD/Terrorism: "A priority of the international community
must aim at the threats of the proliferation of the weapons of mass
destruction, as in some time, terrorists may acquire these types
of weapons."
Conventional Weapons/Arms Trade Treaty: "My country
aknowledges the problems which continue to exist with regard to
conventional armaments and firmly supports the necessary process
of reflection structured on the question of a future international
legal instrument concerning the trade of weapons."
H.E. Mr. Masahiko Koumura, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007
Disarmament: "To help in the reconstruction of Afghanistan,
Japan has played a leading role in the field of disarmament, demobilization
and reintegration (DDR) and disbandment of illegal armed groups
(DIAG), working in close cooperation with the UN Assistance Mission
in Afghanistan (UNAMA)."
WMD/Delivery Systems/Iran's nuclear programme/North Korea's
nuclear programme: "The proliferation of weapons of mass
destruction and their means of delivery is another challenge that
requires the undivided attention of humankind. From this point of
view, I welcome that the Security Council has adopted by consensus
a series of resolutions on the DPRK and Iran. It is now up to all
of us to translate the will of the international community into
concrete action through full implementation of the relevant resolutions.
Japan will continue its efforts to achieve the denuclearization
of the Korean Peninsula through the Six-Party Talks. Japan will
also continue to urge Iran to heed the unanimous voice of the international
community and suspend its enrichment-related activities."
Disarmament/Nuclear Weapons: "Nuclear disarmament should
receive no less attention. I reiterate here the determination of
my country to reinforce international efforts for nuclear disarmament,
as the only country in the world that has suffered nuclear devastation.
Japan will again submit a draft resolution at this session of the
General Assembly to map out concrete measures toward the total elimination
of nuclear weapons."
Terrorism: "The issue of terrorism also requires sustained
efforts, as it becomes increasingly more complex. In this regard,
Japan welcomes the adoption of UN Security Council resolution 1776.
For our own part, we will make efforts to continue our refueling
activities in the Indian Ocean, to fulfill our role as a responsible
member of the international community. Japan also supports the UN
Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. Furthermore, to strengthen the
legal framework to counter terrorism, I call upon every State to
exercise utmost flexibility for an early conclusion of the negotiations
on the draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism."
H.E. Ms. Tzipi Livni, Vice Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign
Affairs
1 October 2007
No references to disarmament.
H.E. Mr. Jean Ping, Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Foreign
Affairs, Cooperation, La Francophonie and Regional Integration Former
President of the General Assembly
1 October 2007
Statement currently only available in French, please check back
later.
H.E. Mr. Hor Namhong, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign
Affairs and International Cooperation 1 October 2007
Multilateralism: "Today, the world continues to confront
a myriad of problems, ranging from peace and security to development,
such as terrorism, regional conflicts, poverty, global warming,
pandemic diseases, and so forth. These old and new emerging crises
are indeed of global proportionons, which require greater collective
efforts by the world community. Therefore as UN member states we
have to share the common responsibility to address these issues
more effectively for the sake of humanity."
WMD/Proliferation/Nuclear Weapons/Terrorism: "On "Weapons
of Mass Destruction" (WMD), it is imperative that all states
must comply with the existing non-proliferation legal instruments
in order to build a better and safer world for all, particulary
the "Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the "Comprehensive
Test Ban Treaty" that laid down a long-term perspective toward
achieving a non-proliferation regime of WMD, and to prevent them
from falling into terrorist hands which can trigger the gravest
danger to the internatibnd community."
Terrorism: "Combating terroism remains one of the top
priorities for all governments, no single country can deal with
this unconventional threat without cooperation and concerted efforts
which should be further strengthened, particularly in the areas
of education, information-sharing among law enforcement authorities
and intelligence agencies."
Security/Small Arms and Light Weapons: "In terms of
security we certainly cannot underestimate the illegal use and circulation
of small arms and light weapons
as they can be an equally dangerous source of terrorism, violence
and regional conflicts. In this context, Cambodia beleives that
the 2001 "Un Program of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons"
should remain the cornerstone for us all to work together to address
this issue. In Cambodia, the Royal Government has developed a number
of programs ranging from law enforcement on arms control to the
Program of Weapon for Development, which had successfully led to
the seizure and destruction of more than 20,000 small arms and light
weapons."
Landmines: "Likewise, landmines still remaing nowadays
a serious threat to many nations in the developing world, especially
those facing armed conflicts at present as well as countries emerging
from war. These 'silent killers' have destroyed the lives of many
innoncent peoples and maimed countless of others. Landmines are
not only a security problem, but a humanitarian one as the victims
become permanently traumatized and physically handicapped, while
their families suffer untold misery of spiritual and material deprivation.
Landmines also have a great impact on the economy and development,
as the victims constitute a heavy economic and social burden for
the governments.
"In Cambodia the Royal Government is carrying out its campaign
of mine clearance, by placing the de-mining operation in its relevant
national agenda, such as 'Cambodian Millenium Development Goals,'
as well as in the 'Rectangular Strategy'. Up to July this year,
more than 1.5 million landmines had been cleared out.
"To share our experiences with other countries that are also
victims of landmines, Cambodia has dispatched 135 de-miners of the
Royal Cambodian Armed Forces to Sudan for de-mining action under
the umbrella of the United Nations Peacekeeping Operation."
North Korea's nuclear programme: "With regard to regional
situation, Cambodia welcomes the agreement in February this year
through the process of the six-party talks leading to the closing
down of Yongbyon nuclear facility in the Democratic People's Republic
of Korea (DPRK). This is a very positive step for peace, security
and stability in the region. We hope that it will serve as an effective
tool to pave the way for complete denuclearization of the Korean
Peninsula."
H.E. Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister
for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007
Multilateralism: "The global circumstances continue
to evolve with complexity and uncertainty though the tendency towards
peace and multilateral cooperation for development increasingly
becomes prominent."
Nuclear Weapons/WMD/Terrorism/Security: "Today, our
world remains far fiom being tranquil and secure. Parts of our planet
are beset by violence, natural disasters and pandemics. All humankind
goes on to live under the threat of nuclear weapons and with fear
of terror and spread of WMDs. The fear will be much greater if those
weapons fall into the wrong hands. Furthermore, the use or threat
of use of force in the settlement of international problems and
violations of sovereignty of member states persist without ebb.
This hurdles the progress in the enhancement of international peace
and security and development cooperation among member states."
North Korea's nuclear programme: "Like other member
states, the Lao PDR welcomes the progress achieved thus far in the
implementation of the outcome the six-party talks on nuclear issue
in the Korean Peninsular. We believe that through committed efforts
by all concerned parties, the result of the talks will be fully
translated into action, thus contributing to the eventual denuclearization
in the region."
H.E. The Honourable Tavau Teii, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister
for Natural Resources
1 October 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mr. Andrei Stratan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for
Foreign Affairs and European Integration
1 October 2007
Terrorism: "Terrorism remains a major threat to the
internal security of the countries and to the international security.
In this regard, the Republic of Moldova supports wholeheartedly
the UN efforts in fighting terrorism; one of the examples is our
joining the International Convention the Suppression of Acts of
Nuclear Terrorism. Internally, the Government undertook a series
of concrete actions on fighting terrorism by adopting the National
Strategy for preventing and fighting money laundering and financing
terrorism, as well as on applying relevant resolutions of the Security
Council.
"We see in the present session of the General Assembly an opportunity
of finalizing the draft of the Comprehensive Convention on International
Terrorism aimed at reaching an international consensus on the normative
framework in this area. Heightened attention is to be given to the
fight with terrorism nourished by separatist tendencies that affect
sovereignty and territorial integrity of the states. I would like
to assure you that our delegation will actively participate in coordinating
the negotiations process in the 6th Committee of the General Assembly."
Disarmament/Non-proliferation: "The United Nations
have represented for decades an adequate forum for tackling different
problems related to disarmament and non-proliferation."
Small Arms and Light Weapons/Arms Trade Treaty/Conventional
Weapons: "The Republic of Moldova welcomes the new approach
to controlling small and light arms and in this context we stand
for the new agreement in the area of arms sales, we support the
international community's efforts aimed at establishing an efficient
security system and arms control system, remaining a faithful supporter
of implementing the Conventional Forces in Europe (CFE) Treaty.
I would like to reiterate on this occasion the position of the Republic
of Moldova according to which the withdrawal of the Russian troops
that remain on the Moldovan territory against its will, in conformity
with the obligations assumed by the Russian Federation in 1999 in
Istanbul, would create the necessary premises for ratifying and
applying the Adapted CFE Treaty."
H.E. Minister Sayyid Badr Bin Hamad Albusaidi, Secretary General
of the Foreign Ministry of the Sultanate of Oman
1 October 2007
Iran's nuclear programme: "We have always welcomed
the existing cooperation between the friendly Islamic Republic of
Iran and the International Atomic and Energy Agency. We see hope
and opportunities on the horizon for a peaceful solution that guarantees
the right of Iran to benefit from peaceful nuclear technology, while
resolving the worries of the international community."
H.E. Mr. Walid al-Moualem, Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007
WMD Free Zone: "Syria reaffirms its position calling
for the elimination of all weapons of mass destruction from the
Middle East region. Allow me to recall that on 29 November, 2003,
Syria tabled a draft resolution before the Security Council on behalf
of the Arab Group, and that we are still looking forward to its
adoption."
Nuclear Energy: "I would like to affirm that Syria
associates itself with the declared positions of other developing
countries stressing the rights of all countries to freely acquire
nuclear technologies and use them for peaceful purposes."
Nuclear Weapons: "We believe that it is necessary to
compel Israel, the sole party in the region that possesses nuclear
weapons, to submit its facilities to the safeguards regime of the
IAEA and adhere to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the Comprehensive
Safeguards Agreement."
Terrorism: "Like many others, I too wonder whether
the world has become safer many years after the beginning of the
war on terrorism. The answer is common knowledge. Terrorism has
spread to areas that have never known the phenomenon before. We
believe that fighting terrorism by force alone is useless. We must
address the root causes of terrorism and firmly distinguish between
terrorism and the peoples' legitimate rights to resist foreign occupation.
We call on all states to cooperate in the fight against terror.
At the same time, we warn against using terrorism as a pretext to
compromise peoples' rights and instill hatred among religions and
civilizations instead of promoting inter-cultural and inter-religious
dialogue in the interest of humanity at large."
H.E. Mr. Nyamaa Enkhbold, Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007
Terrorism: "We must continue our global fight against
terrorism with the United Nations at the helm of this collective
effort. The recent hostage crisis in Afghanistan came as a sobering
reminder of the threat still posed by Taliban. It once again proved
that terrorists prey on those who cannot fight back. Thus, it is
our solemn duty to offer protection to those who cannot defend themselves."
Nuclear Weapon Free Zone/North Korea's nuclear programme:
"Mongolia - a country with an internationally recognized nuclear-weapon-free
status - is pleased with the progress achieved in the Six-Party
Talks on the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, the latest
round of which took place last week in Beijing. As its contribution
towards advancing the Six-Party Talks, Mongolia hosted a bilateral
working group session on the normalization of relations between
Japan and the DPRK from 4 to 5 September this year and stands ready
to continue such efforts in the future."
Multilateralism: "Global challenges require global
approaches, and no other body is better equipped to serve as the
steering house of the collective efforts of the international community
than the United Nations. The United Nations is the world's most
universal, legitimate and authoritative organization. It is a true
political center of global cooperation. It gives us legitimacy.
It gives us legality."
H.E. Mrs. Aïchatou Mindaoudou, Minister for Foreign Affairs,
Cooperation and African Integration
1 October 2007
Statement currently available only in French, please check back
later.
H.E. Ms. Rita Kieber-Beck, Minister of Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mr. Karel De Gucht, Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007
Iran's nuclear programme/Multilateralism: "In dealing
with the nuclear issue in Iran, Belgium has always supported a multilateral
approach. We have to use resolutely the multilateral mechanisms
such as the IAEA and the Security Council, in order to obtain tangible
results. In the past, Iran has not fulfilled its obligations regarding
the transparency of its nuclear activities. In order to restore
confidence and to make the best use of the objective verifications
capacities of the IAEA, Iran will have to fully respect the regulations
of the agreement on the safeguards and of the additional protocol.
The measures prescribed in the resolutions of the Security Council
go beyond the regulations and aim to create the conditions for re-establishing
the international confidence in the Iranian nuclear program. A complete
and immediate respect for these resolutions by Iran is a condition
to resume the dialogue, which had to be interrupted in 2005. The
credibility of the Security Council is also at stake."
Multilateralism: "Multilateralism is back. Nevertheless,
it is only a method, rather than an end in itself. This method can
be disappointing if it does not bring results. We therefore need
an instrument that will allow to give shape to multilateralism,
and we must adapt the United Nations to the current environment.
Achieving our common objectives depends on developing a modern organization
that is well adapted, well equipped and well managed. We will therefore
need to consolidate the basis for a responsible and professional
Secretariat."
H.E. Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, Secretary for the Holy See's
Relations with States
1 October 2007
Disarmament/Nuclear Weapons/Nuclear Energy: "In the
difficult crossroads in which humanity finds itself today, the use
of force no longer represents a sustainable solution. It is important
to help the Conference on Disarmament find a way out of the impasse
in which it has been languishing for more than a decade, relieve
the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons from the
severe strain to which it has been increasingly subjected lately,
and give new impetus to recognizing the value of the Comprehensive
Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. This year's fiftieth anniversary of the
entry into force of the Statute of the International Atomic Energy
Agency is a most fitting occasion to reaffirm our commitment to
a peaceful future through the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons,
the reduction and definitive dismantling of existing nuclear weapons
and the non-discriminatory, peaceful and safe use of nuclear technology."
Arms Control/Conventional Weapons/Small Arms and Light Weapons/Terrorism:
"Moreover, this Organization must take further steps on arms
control in the field of conventional weapons, including small-calibre
arms and light weapons. The Holy See associates itself with all
appeals that underline the importance of adopting a common approach
aimed at combating not only illegal traffic in such weapons but
also other connected activities, such as terrorism, organized crime,
trafficking in drugs and in precious raw materials."
Cluster Munitions: "Another important area in which
the Holy See urges serious and effective action on the part of the
international community is that of cluster munitions. A rapid response
to this problem is becoming an ethical imperative because of the
high cost in human life, the majority of the victims being civilians
and especially children."
H.E. The Honourable George Andre Wells, Minister for Foreign
Affairs and External Trade
1 October 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. The Honourable Archibald Lesao Lehohla, Deputy Prime Minister
1 October 2007
Small Arms and Light Weapons/Arms Trade Treaty: "In
all these conflicts, small arms and light weapons become weapons
of choice. We therefore still consider it regrettable that in 2005,
Member States were not able to adopt a legally binding international
instrument on the marking and tracing of small arms and light weapons.
We share the view that such an instrument could curtail the sources
of illicit small arms and light weapons, their transfers and civilian
possession. It is the urgent responsibility of the United Nations
to facilitate the adoption of an effective international instrument
for curbing the illicit trade in conventional weapons which will
make it harder for such weapons to end up in the hands of criminals.
We hope that the Arms Trade Treaty that is being proposed, can be
concluded expeditiously."
H.E. Mr. Côme Zoumara, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Regional
Integration and la Francophonie
1 October 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. The Honourable Sam K. Kutesa, Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Ms. Kinga Göncz, Minister for Foreign Affairs 1 October 2007
Multilateralism: "I believe that the world needs, more
than ever before, effective multilateralism, which is still a key
word for the future."
Non-proliferation: "My recent participation at the
51st General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency
and my talks with Director General Mohamed ElBaradei reaffirmed
my conviction that questions relating to nuclear safety and non-proliferation
should remain high on our agenda."
Iran's nuclear programme: "Hungary shares the concerns
of the international community over Iran's nuclear program and deplores
Iran's failure to take the steps required by the IAEA Board of Governors
and the Security Council resolutions necessary for re-establishing
international confidence in the peaceful nature of its nuclear programme.
We welcomed the adoption of Security Council resolutions 1737 and
1747, and we fully comply with the obligations set forth therein.
We hope that Iran will soon realize that a diplomatic, negotiated
solution is possible and that compliance has many benefits."
North Korea's nuclear programme: "Hungary continues
to support the process aimed at achieving the denuclearization of
the Korean Peninsula in a peaceful manner, and welcomes the first
promising results of the Six-Party Talks. The developments related
to the North Korean nuclear issue have underscored the importance
of the early entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test
Ban Treaty."
Disarmament/WMD/Terrorism/Multilateralism: "Hungary
supports all multilateral, regional and bilateral efforts that contribute
in an effective manner to our common goal of disarmament and of
curbing the spread of weapons of mass destruction. Such efforts
must also aim at upholding and strengthening the key international
treaties and export control regimes. In this context one of the
most important challenges is assuring compliance with the Nuclear
Non-proliferation Treaty. Moreover, Hungary welcomes the entry into
force of the International Convention on the suppression of acts
of nuclear terrorism which we ratified back in April."
Terrorism: "In the field of counter-terrorism, the
full and earliest implementation of the UN Counter-Terrorism Strategy
is an urgent issue. Here the main responsibility lies with the Member
States who should all actively participate in the upcoming review
of the implementation as well. The conclusion of the Comprehensive
Convention on International Terrorism remains another high priority
for Hungary."
Multilateralism: "On behalf of my country I would like
to reiterate Hungary's commitment to upholding the rule of international
law, to giving priority to effective multilateralism, to spreading
the culture of cooperation and peaceful settlement of international
disputes, and to making every effort to preserve a
sustainable environment for the future generations."
H.E. Mr. Mourad Medelci, Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007
Unofficial Translation
Terrorism: "The world is, nowadays, confronted with
new forms of destabilisation and multiple threats which put in peril
international peace and security. This is the case, in particular,
of terrorism which is of particular importance ... it requires international
mobilization, on behalf of the international community, a collective,
firm and interdependent answer, the only guarantor of efficiency
and durability.
"This is why my country, which suffered for a long time from
the pangs of a contemptible terrorism that it fought and for which
it has pay a heavy tribute in Iinternational indifference in the
1990s, can appreciate the awakening, each day more large, of the
dangers caused by this phenomenon and the necessity to prevent and
eliminate it.
"Convinced of that, Algeria has applied the anti-terrorist
strategy of the UN, adopted in September 2006 by the General Assembly,
and calls for an engagement of the Member States for its implementation
immediatly, while aware that the fight against terrorism should
not rest only on force, but that it [should be dealt with] rather
in the resolution of the causes of this phenomenon through in particular
the resoluton of conflicts, in particular the conflict in the Middle
East.
"Beyond measures to quickly thwart this devestation, it is
necessary to conclude a Convention against international terrorism,
including/understanding a clear definition of the concept of terrorism,
dissociating clearly this last from the legitimate fight of people
against occupation, and it is important to make [distinction?] between
this phenomenon and any religion, civilization or geographic sphere."
Disarmament/Non-proliferation: "I would like to also
express the concern of my country with the dead end which is, currently,
the multilateral process of disarmament and non-proliferation. The
Review Conference of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) of May 2005,
and the dead end of the World Summit of 2005 on this question, which
is however of vital importance for the future of humanity, challenges
us."
Nuclear Energy: "My country remains convinced that
the NPT's significance is in its integral and equitable provisions,
on the basis of the equivalance of the rights and obligations of
the States. The three fundamental pillars on which it rests must
remain complimentary and indissociable. Also, the concern of the
prevention of nuclear proliferation is not a pretext for to prevent
countries from developing nuclear technology for peaceful uses.
"It is with this deep conviction that Algiera hosted, on January
9, 2007, the first high level African conference bearing on: the
contribution of nuclear energy to peace and development..."
H.E. Mr. Abubakr Al-Qirbi, Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007
Statement currently available only in Arabic, please check back
later.
H.E. Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, Minister of External Affairs
1 October 2007
Nuclear Weapons/Disarmament/Nuclear Energy/Non-proliferation:
"Steps to achieve the complete elimination of nuclear weapons
have also only made limited headway. Despite some progress, the
world remains far from achieving the objective of total elimination
of nuclear weapons. India's long-standing commitment to universal,
non-discriminatory and comprehensive nuclear disarmament is embodied
in the vision of late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi for a 'nuclear-free
and non-violent world'. This vision was put forward nearly two decades
ago. It remains undiminished today. Indeed, it is all the more relevant
today, given the fact that peaceful uses of nuclear energy can address
the inexorably growing demand for new and non-polluting sources
of energy to fuel economic development. We will be bringing proposals
to member states and this organisation to see how we can refocus
on general and complete disarmament, particularly nuclear disarmament.
It is disarmament that is our agreed goal, and that subsumes arms
control and nonproliferation."
Nuclear Energy/Non-proliferation: "It is well known
that lndia has an impeccable record in preventing the proliferation
of sensitive technologies. This is in keeping with our commitment
to being a responsible nuclear power."
Non-proliferation/WMD/Terrorism: "lndia is ready to
work with the international community to develop a new international
consensus on non-proliferation. The international community needs
to intensify the effort to address the very real threat posed by
the link between proliferation of WMDs and related materials and
technologies to non-state actors. The risk posed by the intersection
between proliferation and terrorism is real and serious. The central
objective must be to ensure that our solidarity in words is translated
into action."
Terrorism: "The adoption of the United Nations Global
Counter-Terrorism Strategy last September was a noteworthy development,
signaling the will of the international community to combat this
menace in a holistic and coordinated manner. Welcome as the strategy
is, there is much more that needs to be done to combat the menace
that international terrorism has become. India is convinced that
without the early adoption of the Comprehensive Convention against
International Terrorism, the global struggle against terrorism remains
incomplete and likely to succeed only partially. We must ensure
that there is zero tolerance for all forms of terrorism."
H.E. The Honourable Patteson Oti, Minister for Foreign Affairs
and External Trade and Immigration
1 October 2007
Terrorism: "The threat of terrorist penetration through
porous frontiers is sufficient cause for international anxiety,
insecurity and paranoia. Despite global condemnation of terrorism,
the struggle for consensus on an acceptable definition of terrorism
retards the progress of multilateral initiatives in formulating
a Comprehensive Anti-terrorism Convention.
"Illustrative of terrorism's over-reactive potential is the
indignity I had to suffer, as the Foreign Minister of Solomon Islands,
when my multiple entry visitor visa to Australia was suddenly cancelled
last year. The written explanation for that decision identified
me as a risk to the health, safety and good order of the Australian
community under Section 116(1)(e) of its Immigration Act. One would
have to admit that is an incredible justification for excluding
democratically elected leaders of neighbouring countries unknown
for breeding terrorists. Just over a century ago, many of our ancestors
were kidnapped and forcibly taken to work as labourers in a country
which is now quick to regard their descendants as terrorists. Defining
terrorism has proved to be more difficult than deploring it."
H.E. Mr. Abdurrahman Mohamed Shalgham, Secretary of the General
People's Committee for Foreign Liaison and International Cooperation
and Head of the Libyan Delegation
1 October 2007
Disarmament/WMD/Security/Delivery Systems: "In the
field of Disarmament, Libya believes that comprehensive and complete
disarmament, beginning with the elimination of weapons of mass destruction,
is an essential prerequisite for the restoration of international
peace and security. For this reason, Libya initiated its voluntary
abandonment of all programmes related to weapons of mass destruction
and their means of delivery. Libya hopes that all nations which
possess such weapons or related programmes will follow its exemplary
behavior."
Terrorism: "International cooperation, under the auspices
of the United Nations, has achieved excellent results in the fight
against terrorism. However, by concentrating on the fight against
this phenomenon while ignoring its causes, it will not be possible
to bring terrorism to an end. Libya was among the first states which
called for the coordination of international efforts to fight terrorism.
In 1992, Libya called for a special session of the General Assembly
to be held in order to study this phenomenon and take the necessary
measures to combat it and eradicate its root causes (A/46/840).
We believe that the time has come to heed this call and to establish
a precise definition of terrorism which will protect human rights
and halt the practice of confusing terrorism with the legitimate
right of peoples to fight against foreign occupation in order to
exercise self-determination and attain independence.
"Ending terrorism will require practical measures to eliminate
its root causes, including effective action to promote human rights
for all peoples, putting a stop to acts of aggression and the occupation
of the lands of others, fighting poverty and encouraging democracy.
"Foreign occupation is the worst form of terrorism, since occupation
forces subject entire peoples to measures which violate the most
basic principles of human rights and commit crimes on a daily basis
against those peoples in order to maintain their occupation. In
our campaign to fight terrorism, it is imperative that we coordinate
our efforts to finally put an end to foreign occupation, enable
peoples to exercise their right to self-determination and prevent
interference in their internal affairs."
Landmines: "Similarly, countries which were engaged
in wars on the territories of other countries have a responsibility
to remove mines and explosive remnants of war which they left in
those countries, and must provide the necessary maps, equipment
and technical know-how in order to restore and rehabilitate damaged
land in developing countries."
H.E. Mr. Osman Saleh, Minister of Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007
Terrorism: "The military intervention in Somalia has
become a serious concern to our region where war is being waged
in the name of combating terrorism without any condemnation from
a UN body that is entrusted by the UN Charter with the maintenance
of international peace and security. The daunting problem in Somalia
is essentially an internal problem that must be resolved in order
to reconstitute Somalia. The portrayal of the developments in Somalia
in terms of global war on terrorism is factually untenable and politically
imprudent. The Security Council and members of the international
community must insist for the unconditional and immediate withdrawal
of all foreign troops from Somalia to end the occupation."
H.E. Mr. U Nyan Win, Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007
Terrorism: "The scourge of terrorism knows no boundaries.
Combating terrorism is the common endeavour of the entire international
community. I would like to stress here that terrorism in any form
or manifestation must be rejected. It is the innocent people who
bear the brunt of terrorism activities. To combat terrorism effectively,
we also have to address its root causes. Poverty, grievances and
underlying political, economic and social conditions provide fertile
ground for the spread of terrorism. These root causes of terrorism
need to be addressed.
"Friendly relations among nations should be based on respect
for principles of equal rights and self-determination. Countries
should show goodwill, practice tolerance, and live together in peace
and harmony. Nations have various historical background, differing
culture, and different religions and customs. Nations are not identical.
However, if we respect these basic principles and practice friendship
and goodwill, it will effectively contribute to our common endeavour
to combat terrorism."
H.E. The Honourable Sahana Pradhan, Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007
Multilateralism: "The increasing importance of multilateralism
has made the United Nations indispensable."
Terrorism: "Nepal stands firm against any form of terrorism.
We have been implementing the provisions of various UN Security
Council resolutions to combat international terrorism. An effective
implementation of the provisions of the UN global counter-terrorism
adopted last year can foster international cooperation against terrorism.
We call for an early conclusion of a comprehensive convention on
international terrorism. There should be a coordinated global response,
including through the mechanism at the United Nations, to address
the underlying social, economic and political causes of existence
and spread of global terrorism."
Disarmament/WMD/Nuclear Weapons: "Nepal stands for
a general and complete disarmament of all weapons of mass destruction,
including biological, chemical, and nuclear weapons under effective
international control in a time-bound manner."
Nuclear Weapons/Disarmament/Small Arms and Light Weapons:
"We are concerned by the lack of progress on major multilateral
negotiations in disarmament, including in nuclear disarmament and
in control of illegal proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
We call upon the member states, especially the nuclear weapon states,
for stepping up measures for disarmament to release much-needed
dividends for development. We hope that the newly established
office of High Commissioner for disarmament affairs will infuse
dynamism in the process."
Disarmament: "We look forward to the inauguration of
the UN Regional Center for Peace and Disarmament for Asia and the
Pacific soon in Kathmandu in accordance with the resolution adopted
by this Assembly last year for relocation of this centre. The Government
of Nepal and the United Nations Secretariat have already signed
host country agreement and memorandum of understanding to this effect.
Through this Center, Nepal is committed to revitalizing the process
of regional disarmament, including the 'Kathmandu Process'."
H.E. Mr. Mohamed Benaïssa, Minister of Foreign Affairs and
Cooperation
1 October 2007
Multilateralism: "The world is undergoing considerable
changes and is confronted with numerous challenges characterized
by their intensity and their global nature. Thus emerges the need
for effective multilateral institutions that are able to establish
effective cooperation, to coordinate between States and to promote
coherence and synergy among the various national and regional initiatives."
H.E. Mr. Maxime Bernier, Minister for Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007
Security: "Security is the foundation on which everything
lies. But long-term security requires a sustainable investment in
the country’s development—the two go hand in hand."
H.E. Mr. Raphael Tuju, Minister for Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mr. Basile Ikouebe, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Cooperation
and la Francophonie
2 October 2007
Unofficial Translation
Non-proliferation/Nuclear Energy: "On the issue of
nuclear non-proliferation, we always have acted with respect to
the Non-Proliferation Treaty in all its aspects, including the right
of all countries to develop nuclear technology for civilian uses."
North Korea's nuclear programme/Iran's nuclear programme:
"We have always insisted on the recognition of the crucial
role of the IAEA and on the necessity of a political dialogue with
the countries whose nuclear programs cause questions. In this respect,
we [commend?] the evolution of the negotiations with North Korea
and we encourage the continuation of the dialogue with Iran to ensure
that no problems exist in the program that this country develops."
H.E. Mr. Reinaldo Gargano, Minister for Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007
Statement currently only available in Spanish, please check
back later.
H.E. Mr. Vladimir Norov, Minister for Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007
Security: “The problem of shaping and promoting the
ideology of tolerance, mutual understanding and cultural diversity
has taken on a special urgency to maintain peace and security at
the regional and global levels.”
Terrorism: “Indeed, this is why we are seriously concerned
about some negative interpretations of the historical role of Islam
and the deliberate distortion of historical facts. We resolutely
stand against that the counterterrorism transforms into Islamophobia
and acquires the form of open or hidden standoff with the Islamic
world.”
Mr. Abdulla Shahid, Minister for Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007
Nuclear Weapons/Proliferation: “The Maldives also
reiterates its steadfast opposition to the development proliferation
or use of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction.”
Multilaterism: “However, we sincerely believe that
the reforms cannot fully succeed without the much-needed and concurrent
reform of the Security Council. Maldives firmly believes that an
effective multilateral framework is fundamental for the security
of small states and that such a framework should take into consideration
the modem geopolitical realities.”
Terrorism: “The spectre of terrorism visited the Maldives
this past weekend. On Saturday afternoon an improvised explosive
device was detonated in the commercial area of our capital Male'
injuring twelve innocent bystanders. This unprovoked attack was
the first of its kind in our history... This incident serves as
a reminder that no State is immune from the scourge of terrorism.
The Maldives utterly condemns all acts of terrorism wherever they
are perpetrated.”
H.E. Mr. Sonatane Tu'a Taumoepeau-Tupou, Minister for Foreign
Affairs
2 October 2007
Terrorism: "The threat of terrorism continues to be
real and a complex global issue. Following the adoption of the Global
Counter Terrorism Strategy in September 2006, its test of success
will only be guaranteed if it is fully implemented. Tonga looks
forward to the positive progressing leading to the finalization
of the Comprehensive Convention on Internaitonal Terrorism during
the 62nd session of the General Assembly."
H.E. Mr. Timothy Harris, Minister for Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mr. Djibrill Yipènè Bassole, Minister for
Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007
Statement currently only available in French, please check back
later.
H.E. The Honourable Samuel Rudolph Insanally, Minister for Foreign
Affairs and Former President of the General Assembly
2 October 2007
Multilaterism: “As this new era of globalization unfolds,
with its many challenges and opportunities, I invite this august
Assembly to support fully our appeal for the firm establishment
of a more enlightened and compassionate model of multilateralism
as the cornerstone of future international relations.”
H.E. Mr. Bruno Stagno Ugarte, Minister for Foreign Affairs and
Worship
2 October 2007
Arms Trade Treaty/Military Spending/Security: “In
this regard, Costa Rica has been calling for compliance with the
Charter, in the sense of promoting "the maintenance of international
peace and security with the least diversion for armaments of the
world's human and economic resources." Thus reads the dead
letter of article 26 of the Charter is in that spirit that we have
pressed for the adoption of an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), that is,
a legally binding instrument that codifies those existing obligations
of States under international law that may apply to the arms trade.
It is also in that spirit that we have called for the Costa Rica
Consensus, so that international donors reward those developing
countries that, while increasing social spending and reducing military
spending, are making sustainable and verifiable efforts to meet
the most pressing social needs, including the MDGs.”
Multilateralism: “Mr President, as the United Nations
advances well into its 62nd year, we can ask ourselves how we have
fared in the stewardship of our world. As we are weighed in the
balances, have we passed or found wanting. The plethora of outstanding
issues, unfulfilled commitments, new and evolving global challenges
however reaffirms the relevance of the United Nations as the only
multilateral institution that can appropriately deal with these
complex global issues.”
Multilateralism/Security: “We must accept that collective
security, in order to be legitimate, must defend international law
in the abstract, without preference for some over others. Nevertheless,
we continue to have an unequal commitment to international law.
Some of us have accepted a multilateralism based on "open agreements,
openly arrived at", whereas others refuse to yield imaginary
shares of sovereignty. As long as the latter continue to understand
sovereignty as the absence of obligations and responsibilities unto
others, they are mortgaging multilateralism.”
Multilateralism: “Here gather consciences and cultures
from all latitudes. They do so because they know that the solitude
of unilateralism is a dead end. Multilateralism, however, must have
subscription fees. Who wants to be treated as a partner has to behave
as one. If not, we will never be able to live up to our promise
of never again.”
Multilateralism/Non-Proliferation/CTBT: “It is unfair
to mortgage multilateralism. It is unrealistic to press others for
compliance with the obligations that arise from the Non-Proliferation
Treaty (NPT) and the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) while
disregarding one's own ligations.”
Multilateralism/Military Spending: "Multilateralism
is not built on tests of strength. In 2006, the world reached a
record 1.2 trillion dollars in military spending. According to the
Millennium Project, with one tenth of this amount, that is, 121
billion dollars, we would have met the targets for 2006 for all
the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in all countries. In 2006,
for every dollar spent on average by the OECD Member States, another
7.50 dollars were spent on warfare.”
Military Spending: “It is also in that spirit that
we have called for the Costa Rica Consensus, so that international
donors reward those developing countries that, while increasing
social spending and reducing military spending, are making sustainable
and verifiable efforts to meet the most pressing social needs, including
the MDGs.”
Security/Weapons: “Security does not come from multiplying
weapons, history has already proven this too many times. Security
comes from remedying injustices, easing shortages, creating opportunities
so that we can have collective prosperity on par with collective
security. In short, welfare instead of warfare.”
Terrorism: “Our commitment to combat terrorism must
aim at prevailing not only over the terrorists, but also over the
root causes from which they draw strength and renewal. In this regard,
it is as important to combat the manifestations of terrorism, its
financial circuits and physical hideouts as the poverty and despair
that provide an easy harvest for the extremists.”
Multilateralism: “We have a world of reasons to persevere
and prevail over the challenges we face. Neither the chronic pessimism
of some, nor the ungrateful egoism of others, will check the slow
but determined march forward of those of us who believe in multilateralism
and in a better future of shared welfare for all.”
Venezuela H.E. Mr. Nicolás Maduro Moros, Minister for Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007
No statement posted, please check back later.
H.E. Mr. Choe Su Hon, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman
of the Delegation
2 October 2007
North Korea's nuclear programme: “The nuclear issue
on the Korean peninsula, as made clear time and again on this very
podium, is no more than a product of the deep-rooted hostile US
policy on the DPRK persisting over half a century."
North Korea's nuclear programme: “There has been no
other option for the DPRK, small in its territory and population,
but to strengthen its self defensive military power on the basis
of Songun politics if it is to safeguard the national sovereignty
and dignity in the face of the US threats of preemptive nuclear
strikes and harsh economic sanctions.”
North Korea's nuclear programme: “Denuclearizing the
Korean peninsula is the lifetime teachings of our fatherly leader
President KIM IL SUNG, and it is our consistent position to resolve
the nuclear issue peacefully through dialogue and negotiations.
"Thanks to our sincere efforts, several rounds of six-party
talks have been held so far enabling the adoption of the Joint Statement
of September 19,2005, followed by the February 13 agreement on the
initial phase steps to denuclearize the Korean peninsula.
The Joint Statement specificies the obligations of all respective
parties for denuclearizing the Korean peninsula on the basis of
the principles of "words for words" and "actions
for actions".
“The denuclearization of the Korean peninsula is not the
one that leads to our unilateral disarming, but the one that is
realized through the removal of the DPRK-US hostile relations and
the elimination of all nuclear threats on the Korean peninsula and
in its surroundings. The DPRK suspended the operation of the Nyongbyon
nuclear facilities and allowed the IAEA monitoring as well, thus
fulfilling its obligations under the February 13 agreement in a
sincere manner. The Nyongbyon nuclear facilities are a parent body
of our independent nuclear power industry built with tremendous
human and material resources. Therefore, it is a courageous political
decision to halt their operation and now enter the stage of disabling
them for eventual dismantlement. As we clarified again at the Six
Party Talks recently held in Beijing, the prospect of the implementation
of the September 19 Joint Statement rests with every single party
fulfilling its own obligations in accordance with the principle
of "actions for actions". It depends particularly on how
practical measures the US and Japan will take to remove their hostile
policies on the DPRK.”
Nuclear Weapons/Terrorism: “The principles of respect
for national sovereignty and equality, the foundation of international
relations, are threatened by the attempts to continue and expand
the "war against terrorism" for selfish purposes, and
the highhandedness and arbitrariness of some forces advocating the
preemptive nuclear strikes while accelerating the modernization
of nuclear weapons.”
H.E. Mr. Riaz Mohammad Khan, Foreign Secretary and Leader of
Pakistan Delegation
2 October 2007
Nuclear Weapons/Disarmament/Non-proliferation: "I wish
to reaffirm that our strategic capability is solely for deterrence
and defence. We are opposed to an arms race and want to maintain
minimum credible deterrence. We will not be the first to test in
our region. We will never use our nuclear capability against non-nuclear
weapon states. We remain fully committed to the objective of general
and complete disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation. We want
to be treated as a partner rather than a target of the global nuclear
non-proliferation regime."
Nuclear Energy: "We are committed to developing nuclear
power generation under international safeguards to meet our growing
energy needs."
Disarmament/Non-Proliferation/Nuclear Weapons: “It
is evident that global consensus on disarmament and non-proliferation
has been seriously eroded. There are several reasons for this. The
disavowal of nuclear disarmament by the NPT nuclear weapon states,
the emergence of de-facto nuclear weapon states not parties to the
NPT, the failure to address the security concerns of non-nuclear
weapon states and the discrimination in the conduct of peaceful
nuclear cooperation. There is an obvious need for a new and universal
consensus on non-proliferation, disarmament and peaceful nuclear
cooperation that eliminates dangers and risks and establishes cooperation
on an equitable basis. In the coming months, the NSG states have
a heavy responsibility as any endorsement of a selective or discriminatory
approach could fatefully damage the existing consensus on disarmament
and non-proliferation.”
Nuclear Energy: “In our region, the incipient US-India
nuclear deal injects a new element. We have concerns over strategic
stability which we will maintain despite our firm opposition to
an arms race in South Asia, Secondly, we also have a strong interest
in developing civil nuclear power generation under international
safeguards.”
Nuclear Weapons: “Our nuclear and strategic assets
are solely for defensive purpose. We started pursuing the nuclear
option only after 1974 when the strategic balance was disrupted
by the first Indian nuclear test. Our initiatives for keeping South
Asia free of nuclear weapons received scant response internationally.”
Iran's nuclear programme: “Pakistan is also disturbed
by the ominous confrontation over Iran's nuclear issue. We have
insisted on recourse to diplomacy because resort to use of force
could lead to incalculable consequences for this already inflamed
and highly sensitive region.”
Terrorism: “There are new threats of terrorism and
violence and of widening divisions among cultures and societies
driven by suspicion and prejudice."
Terrorism: “Terrorism is a grave and pervasive threat.
Terrorism destabilizes societies. It must not be associated with
any faith or culture. It must be countered and rejected addressing
both its manifestations and the root causes.”
Terrorism: “The unfortunate happenings in our neighbourhood
impacted on our society giving rise to terrorism and extremism especially
in the tribal regions bordering Afghanistan. We are fighting Al
Qaeda and other terrorist elements with resolve and determination.
We have deployed nearly 100,000 troops for this purpose, alarge
number of our troops have sacrificed their lives. In the tribal
regions, we have taken political and administrative measures and
have plans to bring about socio-economic transformation. As part
of a comprehensive strategy we have introduced reforms to counter
extremism.”
H.E. The Honourable Theodore Brent Symmonette,Deputy Prime Minister
and Minister for Foreign Affairs
2 october 2007
Terrorism: "Last year the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism
Strategy was adopted, marking an important step toward the elaboration
of a Counter-Terrorism Convention. The Bahamas continues to condemn
terrorism and recognises that while there may be instances when
terrorism and criminal activities converge, the methodologies used
to combat them are very different. Based on its own risk assessment,
therefore, each Government must determine the level of resources
that can be applied to counter-terrorism measures, particularly
given the emphasis the Strategy also places on addressing and preventing
the conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism. In prescribing
counterterrorism measures, care must be taken by the international
community to preserve the tenet of due process. Care must also be
taken to guard against the creation of disincentives that negatively
impact countries with service based economies. With respect to counterterrorism
measures. The Bahamas has adopted new legislation, ratified additional
anti-terrorism conventions, increased security of large facilities,
airports, docks and harbours, developed a counter-terrorism intelligence
network, as well as anti-terrorism training for the police and defence
forces, as some of the measures to address this global issue. Needless
to say, such initiatives present a challenge and divert resources
from important social and economic development activities."
H.E. Dr. The Honourable Kenneth Baugh, Deputy Prime Minister
and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
2 October 2007
Security: "From a security point of view, the world
continues to be plagued by seemingly incessant and protracted conflicts,
such as those in the Middle East, parts of Africa and elsewhere.
Millions of innocent persons are the victims of civil strife or
are displaced as a result of violence and armed conflict."
Terrorism/WMD/Security: "Terrorism, transnational organized
crime and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction continue
to threaten international peace and security."
Multilateralism/Security: "All states, developed and developing,
large and small, are vulnerable to these threats and must of necessity
have a shared commitment to strengthen collective security and safeguard
world peace and security. No nation can address these challenges
and threats entirely on its own. Sustained collective action and
global cooperation is required to identify and shape a common vision
and agreed objectives to deal with the complexities of our times.
In recent years, we have renewed our commitment to the United Nations
as the catalyst for effectively advancing the interests of our peoples
in the areas of development, peace and security and human rights."
Terrorism: "The threat of terrorism transcends boundaries
and has had devastating impact on the economic development of states,
whether directly or indirectly. It is imperative that we negotiate
and conclude a comprehensive convention against terrorism. We must
also invigorate disarmament and nonproliferation efforts."
Small Arms and Light Weapons/Arms Trade Treaty: "There
is a need to comprehensively address the illicit traffick in small
arms and light weapons which have the capacity to kill and maim
thousands of people. Jamaica has first hand experience of high levels
of gun violence and the unwarranted burden it places on our social
and economic system. We urge the international community to give
priority attention to this menace including through the creation
of a legally binding instrument containing stricter controls over
the illegal trade in small arms and ammunition. Likewise, we support
the proposal for the establishment of an arms trade treaty."
H.E. Mr. Ahmad Allam-Mi, Minister for Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007
Statement currently available only in French, please check back
later.
H.E. Mr. Dermot Ahern, T.D., Minister for Foreign Affairs
3 October 2007
Disarmament/Non-Proliferation: “Ireland's historic
commitment to nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation continues.”
Security: “Because after six decades, the core goal
of the United Nations – universal peace and security - still
eludes us.”
Security: “We must solve the humanitarian and security
crisis while simultaneously establishing the foundations for longer-term
peace and development.”
H.E. Mr. Patrick Pillay, Minister of Foreign Affairs
3 October 2007
Multilateralism: “More than ever, we believe that
the world needs strong and effective multilateralism. Indeed, we
are convinced that the most effective means of advancing our collective
interests are through the United Nations.”
Security/Terrorism/Multilateralism: “Against the backdrop
of increased violence from war and terrorism, it is clear to us
is that violence and the use of force cannot be the answer. We must
embrace multilateralism and insist that international relations
be guided by the rule of law as the basis for our collective security.”
H.E. Mr. Yeshey Dorji, Foreign Secretary and Leader of the Bhutanese
Delegation
2 October 2007
Terrorism: “Terrorism strikes at the very foundation
of humanism and cannot be justified under any circumstances. This
evil, which does not spare even my country, has to be countered
through cooperation at bilateral, regional and global levels. At
the global level, greater efforts have to be made to implement the
Counter Terrorism Strategy and conclude a comprehensive convention
on international terrorism. Within our region, the leaders of the
South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation at their 14 Summit
meeting in New Delhi last April reaffirmed their commitment to collectively
fight terrorism. This is a positive development but more needs to
be done to rid the region of this menace.”
H.E. The Honourable Elvin Nimrod, Minister for Foreign Affairs,
International Trade, Legal Affairs, Carriacou and Petite Martinique
Affairs
2 October 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Ms. Lisa Shoman, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign
Trade
2 October 2007
Security: “Building trust requires a return to basics.
To advance development, we must return to the basic principle of
equity. In international peace and security, we must return to the
basic principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the rule
of law.”
H.E. Mr. Ednan Karabaev, Minister of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mr. Charles A. Savarin, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade
and Labour
2 October 2007
Multilateralism: “In the interdependent world which
we live in today, the promotion of the fundamental values of peace,
democracy, human rights and development depend on strong multilateral
institutions. Dominica believes that it is only a strong United
Nations, which is sensitive to the variable geometry of its own
complex construction that can serve as the foundation of our shared
ambitions for effective multilateralism, and a rules-based international
order.”
Multilateralism: “The experience of the last decade
has taught us one important lesson, that global challenges require
global responses, and that these challenges can only receive the
appropriate responses through the framework of multilateral action.
The United Nations is the undisputed center for multilateralism,
and we must all demonstrate unwavering commitment to vest in the
United Nations the authority and allow it the space to undertake
effective interventions in the interest of the preservation of human
life, human rights, peace, justice, democracy and the rule of law.”
Terrorism: “The adoption of the Global Counter-Terrorism
Strategy by the General Assembly was an important achievement. It
will be meaningless, however, if we do not address its full implementation,
Small states like Dominica and the rest of the member states of
the Organization of the Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) must be
assisted to meet the various obligations required by the implementation
of the counter-terrorism conventions.”
H.E. The Honourable Natanaera Kirata, Minister of Public Works
and Utilities
2 October 2007
Terrorism: “Terrorism is an ongoing concern that affects
all countries both large and small. Kiribati condemns terrorism
in all its various forms and manifestations and we will continue
to support the global fight against terrorism.”
H.E. Mr. Husein Elabe Fahiye, Minister of Foreign Affairs and
International Cooperation
2 October 2007
Security: “One of the major principles in the United
Nations Charter is to maintain peace and security, and to that end
to take effective measures for the prevention and removal of breaches
to world peace and security. It is due to this conviction that I
appear before this august body to underscore the concerns of the
Federal Government of Somalia on political and security matters
related to the roles that should be tackled by the international
community.”
Security/Terrorism: “Here, I wish to underscore that
peace, security and well-being and prosperity of individuals and
nations alike are at stake in the fight against terrorism. It is
our view that the only viable response against terrorism is a collective
response of all nations, and it is for this reason that the United
Nations System has a pivotal role to play and vital contributions
to make in many aspects of counter-terrorism, from promoting the
rule of law and effective criminal justice systems to ensuring that
countries have the means to counter terrorism measures. No other
institution has the means of unifying nations in the fight against
this evil and there is no better venue for nations to forge their
protective measures.”
H.E. Mr. Gonzalo Gutiérrez Reinel, Vice Minister and Secretary
General of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007
Small Arms and Light Weapons/Conventional Weapons: “Likewise,
Peru has ratified diverse international instruments related to small
and light weapons and conventional weapons. Also, the Government
has recently established the National Commission against the Production
and the Illicit Traffic of Firearms, Munitions, Explosives and Other
Related Materials and supports the efforts of the international
community to develop a system that permit an effective control of
the commerce of weapons.”
Disarmament/Non-proliferation/Nuclear Weapons/Multilateralism/Security:
“Peru is firmly committed with the efforts to reach the complete
disarmament and the nonproliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological
weapons, as well as its vector systems, that constitute a threat
for the international peace and security, supporting the strengthening
and universalization of the binding multilateral agreements in the
matter.”
Terrorism: “Peru reiterates its firm condemn to all
acts of terrorism, as well as its commitment, through the mutual
cooperation, to prevent, to fight, to sanction and to eliminate
terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.”
H.E. Dr. Yannis Valinakis, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007
Security/WMD: “Conflicts within and between States
are not only the threat to international peace and security. Proliferation
of weapons of mass destruction is a serious challenge.”
Terrorism/Security: “Terrorism is undeniably one of
the most serious threats to peace and security, menacing the foundation,
itself, of our democratic societies and actions to combat this threat
should be in conformity with international human rights standards
and fundamental freedoms. The adoption of the Global-Counter Terrorism
Strategy by the General Assembly is a major accomplishment and its
full implementation should be an absolute priority for Member States.
In this respect I would like to emphasize the importance that my
country attaches to the conclusion of the ongoing negotiations for
the elaboration of a comprehensive Convention against international
terrorism which would be a valuable addition to the counter-terrorism
legal framework."
H.E. Mr. Anders Lidén, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
2 October 2007
Security: "Human rights, security and development go
hand in hand. Respect for human rights is necessary to achieve security
and development, and these three elements are mutually reinforcing.
Our protection of any individual anywhere is the protection of all
individuals everywhere."
Non-proliferation: "There are many challenges that
remain to be tackled if we are to make the world a better place.
Perhaps the most important is how we should best address the present
dangers to the existing non-proliferation regime."
Nuclear Weapons/Terrorism: "Were there to be one new
state with nuclear weapons, the danger is that soon another would
follow. Shortly, these weapons might well be out of any state's
control. The risk of nuclear terrorism would be a very real one.
This must be prevented. Our children deserve to live in a world
safe from the threat of nuclear war and of weapons of mass destruction
falling into the hands of terrorists. These weapons threaten the
very existence of mankind."
Nuclear Weapons/Disarmament/Non-proliferation: "To
prevent this, the nuclear powers have a duty -to live up to their
responsibilities. Neglect is to invite failure. They need to demonstrate
their readiness to substantially reduce their nuclear arsenals.
These weapons are of no use in deterring the adversaries we might
face if the regime of non-proliferation is eroded or collapses.
It's a question of self-interest - and far-sighted statesmanship."
Iran's nuclear programme: "Iran still refuses to accept
the obligations laid down by the Security Council. Iran has to convince
us of the peaceful nature of its nuclear programme."
H.E. Mr. Carsten Staur, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
2 October 2007
Terrorism: "We believe that the UN continues to be the international
focal point for our common efforts in the fight against terrorism.
The adoption last year by the General Assembly of the UN Global
Counter- Terrorism Strategy was of crucial importance. It underlined
the firm commitment of the international community to stand united
against those who wish to threat international peace and security.
Next step should be to finalise the negotiations on the comprehensive
global convention against terrorism. This would send another strong
political signal of our unity. The adoption of this convention would
be a worthy achievement of the 62nd Session of the General Assembly."
H.E. Mr. Robert Hill, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
2 October 2007
Terrorism: “We also have to act to confront the range
of global challenges we face-from terrorism and climate change to
poverty. Terrorists stand in stark contrast to those of us who seek
to protect the vulnerable...”
Terrorism: “There has been some success in combating
terrorists networks, but we need to develop more effective strategies
to disrupt and dismantle their networks.”
“Australia calls on member states of the United Nations to
implement fully all relevant Security Council resolutions on freezing
the assets of terrorists. Terrorist organizations must be starved
of their funds and support. Australia also calls on members to conclude
a comprehensive convention against terrorism as soon as possible.
A convention would provide a solid foundation for international
cooperation to prevent, prosecute, and punish terrorist acts.”
“The international community must support the efforts of
states that fight terrorism – in particular, fledging democratic
states. We must help these states to establish strong democratic
institutions and accountable government structure – as state
weakness can allow terrorism to fester.”
“We should cooperate to prevent man-portable air-defense
systems (MANPADS) falling into the hands of terrorist groups. We
should also intensify work on Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear
Terrorism.”
Iran's nuclear programme/North Korea's nuclear programme:
“Australia welcomes the robust action of the Security Council
over the past year in imposing sactions against programs of proliferation
concern in the Democratic Republic of Korea (DPRK) and Iran. The
Security Council’s action on the DPRK nuclear issue sent a
strong signal to that country that the international community would
not tolerate its nuclear programs. We call on the DPRK to maintain
the momentum and implement fully its commitment to denuclearise…But
the international community including Australia, remains deeply
concerned about Iran’s nuclear program.”
Conventional Weapons/Arms Trade Treaty: "Australia
also hopes the United Nation can continue its work in protecting
populations by raising barriers against the illicit trade in conventional
weapons. We support the development of an Arms Trade Treaty.”
His Excellency Mr. Volodymyr Khandogiy, First Deputy Minister
for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine
3 October 2007
Terrorism: “One of the most serious threats facing
humankind today remains international terrorism. We believe the
adoption of the definition of terrorism…would become a starting
point in assessing counterterrorism measures.
Disarmament/Non-proliferation/Multilateralism: “Among
the most important challenges. Ukraine is disappointed that a world
without weapons of mass destruction remains a distant dream. We
cannot but underscore our concerns over the recent tendencies which
have already caused the erosion of multilateral regimes in the arms
control and disarmament sphere, thus making a negative impact on
mutual trust and confidence among the states. The strengthening
of the international legal norms and political instruments to prevent
WMD proliferation remains a top priority. In this regard I would
like to stress the importance of universalization of the Non-Proliferation
Convention.”
H.E. Mr. Vartan Oskanian, Minister for Foreign Affairs
3 October 2007
Multilateralism/Disarmament/Terrorism: "At the same
time, the major political, social and environmental issues on this
Assemblys agenda peace and security, economic growth and sustainable
development, human rights, disarmament, drugs, crime, international
terrorism know no borders. None of us can tackle them individually
if we expect to resolve them effectively. Their solutions are in
our common interest. The problems are vast and touch all of humanity.
Because they cannot be solved within our borders alone, does not
mean anyone has the right, or the luxury, to abdicate responsibility
for their consequences."
Disarmament/Arms Control: "When disarmament and arms
control cease to be the means to world peace, and instead become
the means to score political dividends, small countries resort to
their own means of self-protection. In other words, we become part
of the problem, because the solution is neither straightforward,
nor within reach."
H.E. The Honourable Dame Billie A. Miller, M.P., Senior Minister,
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
3 October 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Mr. Seymour Mesfin, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the
Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
3 October 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Dr. Lam Akol Ajawin, The Minister of Public Affairs
of the Republic of Sudan
3 October 2007
Terrorism: “My country has repeatedly condemned terrorism,
in all its forms. And it supports all regional and international
decisions pertaining to terrorism, and affirms its cooperation with
the interantaional community to implement these decisions. However,
in order to uproot terrorism it is necessary to address its root
causes and implement the comprehensive strategies that we have adopted.
Honorable Minister Marco Hausiku, MP
3 October 2007
Multilateralism: "The world needs a strong United Nations
and effective multilateralism that can help humanity to respond
timely and effectively to global challenges."
H.E. Lygia Kraag-Keteldijk, Minister of Foreign Affairs
3 October 2007
Multilateralism and Security: "The United Nations is
the supreme institution, to advance multilateral diplomacy. Suriname
will continue to advocate for the strengthening and updating of
the multilateral system in order to adequately address global issues
in the area of inter alia environment, energy, water, peace, and
security."
H.E. Mr. Elmar Mammadyarov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
3 October 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Ms. Rosemary Banks, Permanent Representative of New
Zealand
3 October 2007
North Korea's nuclear programme/Iran's nuclear programme:
“With respect to nuclear proliferation, New Zealand welcomes
the strong signals that have been sent to North Korean and Iran
by the Security Council."
Nuclear Weapons: "New Zealand is also pleased to promote
a new initiative at the UN General Assembly this year calling for
action to lower the operational status of nuclear weapons. Maintaining
a nuclear weapon systems at a high-level of readiness increases
the risk of these weapons being used, with catastrophic consequences."
Cluster Munitions: "New Zealand is convinced that the
humanitarian harm caused by cluster munitions must be addressed
urgently. We believe that the negotiation of a treaty to deal with
the problems caused by cluster munitions is well overdue. We will
host an meeting on this initiative in February next year."
H.E. Mr. Sirodjidin Aslov, Permanent Representative of the
Republic of Tajikistan to the United Nations
3 October 2007
Disarmament/Non-Proliferation/Nuclear Weapons/NWFZ: “Tajikistan
attaches primary importance to further strengthening of the disarmament
process, nonproliferation of nuclear weapons, enhancement of the
negotiation process on enforcement of a Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban-Treaty
of the establishment of nuclear weapon-free zones. In cooperation
with other Central Asia states Tajikistan took a very active part
in the elaboration on the Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia.”
Terrorism: “It is common knowledge that international
terrorism, transnational organized crime and illicit drug trafficking
become a serious obstacle on the way towards sustainable development,
inflicting much suffering and causing much trouble to humanity.
The international community, should intensify its efforts aimed
at counteracting instigation of acts of terror, proliferation of
ideology of terrorism, extremism, and separatism, inter religious
and interethnic intolerance and hostility, and should enhance its
struggle against financial terrorism.
"The global system of combating terrorism, which is currently
taking shape, cannot be established without the involvement of regional
and subregional organizations. We believe that the long term success
in combating terrorism and religious extremism depends on dealing
with the root causes of these negative phenomena associated with
social and economic problems within society. Power actions alone
will not be able to uproot terrorism. Regrettably, today we witness
the merging of terrorism with transnational organized crime and
drug trafficking. Prevention of illicit drug trafficking…should
become part and parcel of our common struggle against terrorism.”
H.E. Mr. Claude Heller, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
3 October 2007
Statement currently only in Spanish, please check back later.
H.E. Ambassador Philip Sealy, Permanent Representative of
the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago to the United Nations
3 October 2007
No references to disarmament issues.
H.E. Profesor Joe R. Pemagbi, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
3 October 2007
Disarmament/Security: “Peace is not an event. It transcends
the signing of ceasefire and peace agreements. It also transcends
the successful disarmament and demobilization of the ex-combatants,
as well as the official declaration of the end of the armed conflict.
For far too long, the situation in some countries has been a threat
to regional and international peace and security.”
