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.

Click on a country below to see relevant excerpts, or see the Disarmament Index by Topic.

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

Speeches by:
Secretary-General H.E. Ban Ki-moon, and
General Assembly President H.E. Dr. Srgjan Kerim

United Nations Secretary-General
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."

President of the 62nd General Assembly
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."

Brazil
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."

United States of America
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."

Kazakhstan
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."

Ghana
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."

Honduras
H.E. Mr. Don Jose Manuel Zelaya Rosales, President
25 September 2007

Statement is currently available only in Spanish; please check back later.

Qatar
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."

France
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."

Macedonia
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."

Chile
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."

European Union
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."

Sri Lanka
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."

Senegal
H.E. Mr. Abdoulaye Wade, President
25 September 2007

Currently available only in French, please check back later.

South Africa
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."

Iran
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."

Indonesia
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."

Afghanistan
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."

Slovakia
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."

Monaco
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."

Estonia
H.E. Mr. Thoomas Hendrik Ilves, President
25 September 2007

No references to disarmament.

Paraguay
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."

Panama
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."

Angola
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."

Italy
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."

Germany
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."

Latvia
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."

Switzerland
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

Statement is currently only available in French and Arabic, please check back later.

Finland
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."

Turkmenistan
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."

Lithuania
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."

Zambia
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."

Botswana
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."

Haiti
H.E. Mr. Rene Preval, President
26 September 2007

Statement is currently only available in French, please check back later.

Cote d'Ivoire
H.E. Mr. Laurent Gbagbo, President
26 September 2007

Statement is currently only available in French, please check back later.

Sao Tome and Principe
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."

Swaziland
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."

Bosnia and Herzegovina
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."

Cuba
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."

Iraq
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."

Nigeria
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."

Zimbabwe
H.E. Comrade R.G. Mugabe, President
26 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Mozambique
H.E. Mr. Armando Emilio Guebuza, President
26 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Cyprus
H.E. Mr Tasso Papadopoulos, President
26 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Madagascar
H.E. Marc Ravalomanana, President
26 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Czech Republic
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."

Ecuador
H.E. Rafael Correa, President
26 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Norway
H.E. Jens Stoltenberg, Prime Minister
26 September 2007

Multilateralism: "We support multilateral solutions to common problems."

Poland
H.E. Lech Kaczynski, President
26 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Malta
H.E. Dr. Lawrence Gonzi, Prime Minister
26 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Georgia
H.E. Mikhail Saakashvili, President
26 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Rwanda
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.'"

Croatia
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."

Serbia
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."

Colombia
H.E. Mr. Alvaro Uribe Velez, President
27 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Democratic Republic of Congo
H.E. Joseph Kabila Kabange, President
27 September 2007

Statement currently only available in French, please check back later.

Timor-Leste
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."

Tanzania
H.E. Mr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, President
27 September 2007

Multilateralism: "Tanzania reaffirms its belief in and commitment to multilateralism and the United Nations."

Equatorial Guinea
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."

Guatemala
H.E. Oscar Berger Perdomo, President
27 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Dominican Republic
H.E. Dr. Leonel Fernandez Reyna, President
27 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Netherlands
H.E. Dr. Jan Peter Balkenende, Prime Minister
27 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Kuwait
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."

Guinea-Bissau
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."

Micronesia
H.E. Emanuel Mori, President
27 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Comores
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Abdhallah Mohamed Sambi, President
27 September 2007

Statement is currently only available in French, please check back later.

Slovenia
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."

Bangladesh
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."

Andorra
H.E. Mr. Albert Pintat, Head of Government
27 September 2007

Thailand
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."

Papua New Guinea
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.'"

Albania
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."

Viet Nam
H.E. Nguyen Tan Dzung, Prime Minister
27 September 2007

Statement is currently only available in French, please check back later.

Guinea
H.E. Mr. Lansana Kouyaté, Prime Minister
27 September 2007

Statement is currently only available in French, please check back later.

Burundi
H.E. Mr. Martin Nduwimana, Vice-President
27 September 2007

Statement is currently only available in French, please check back later.

Liberia
H.E. Mr. Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Vice-President
27 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Gambia
H.E. Aja Dr. Isatou Njie-Saidy, Vice-President
27 September 2007

No references to disarmament issues.

Palau
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."

Togo
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.

United Kingdom
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