Disarmament Index by Topic

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 topic below to see relevant excerpts, or see the Disarmament Index by Country.

Disarmament

Non-proliferation

Security

Multilateralism

Nuclear Weapons

Nuclear Energy

Terrorism

Iran's nuclear programme

North Korea's nuclear programme

Nuclear Weapon Free Zones

Missiles/Delivery Systems

Biological and Chemical Weapons

Outer Space

Conventional Weapons

Small Arms and Light Weapons

Arms Trade Treaty

Disarmament and Development/
Military Spending

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

Disarmament

United Nations Secretary-General
H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General
25 September 2007

"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."

Kazakhstan
H.E. Mr. Nursultan A. Nazarbayev, President
25 September 2007

"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.

"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?"

Ghana
H.E. Mr. John Agyekum Kufuor, President
25 September 2007

"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."

"[W]e 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."

Macedonia
H.E. Branko Crvenkovski, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Chile
H.E. Ms. Michelle Bachelet, President
25 September 2007

"[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."

"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 . . ."

European Union
H.E. Mr. Jose Socrates, Prime Minister of Portugal
25 September 2007

"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."

Iran
H.E. Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Indonesia
H.E. Dr. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Ivan Gasparovic, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Angola
H.E. Mr. Jose Eduardo dos Santos, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Finland
H.E. Tarja Halonen, President
26 September 2007

"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."

Lithuania
H.E. Valdas Adamkus, President
26 September 2007

"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."

Cuba
H.E. Mr Felipe Perez Roque, Minister of Foreign Affairs
26 September 2007

"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."

Iraq
H.E. Mr. Nuri Kamel Al-Maliki, Prime Minister
26 September 2007

"The elimination of weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East will guarantee a lasting and comprehensive peace."

Timor-Leste
H.E. Dr. Jose Ramos-Horta, President
27 September 2007

"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."

Paraguay
H.E. Nicanor Duarte Frutos, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Marshall Islands
H.E. Mr. Kessai H. Note, President
28 September 2007

"In the area of disarmament and non-proliferation, our collective efforts need to be invigorated to overcome stalemate."

Albania
H.E. Mr. Sali Berisha, Prime Minister
27 September 2007

"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."

Tunisia
H.E. Mr. Abdelwaheb Abdallah, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

"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."

Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Sergey Viktorovich Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

"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."

Egypt
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

"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."

Austria
H.E. Ms. Ursula Plassnik, Federal Minister for European and International Affairs
28 September 2007

"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."

"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."

"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."

Bulgaria
H.E. Mr. Ivailo Kalfin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

Unofficial Translation from French

"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."

Iceland
H.E. Mrs. Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade
28 September 2007

"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."

Japan
H.E. Mr. Masahiko Koumura, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

"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)."

"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."

Moldova
H.E. Mr. Andrei Stratan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs and European Integration
1 October 2007

"The United Nations have represented for decades an adequate forum for tackling different problems related to disarmament and non-proliferation."

Holy See
H.E. Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, Secretary for the Holy See's Relations with States
1 October 2007

"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."

Hungary
H.E. Ms. Kinga Göncz, Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007

"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."

India
H.E. Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, Minister of External Affairs
1 October 2007

"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."

Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
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

"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."

Nepal
H.E. The Honourable Sahana Pradhan, Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007

"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."

"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."

"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'."

Sweden
H.E. Mr. Anders Lidén, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
2 October 2007

"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."

Pakistan
H.E. Mr. Riaz Mohammad Khan, Foreign Secretary and Leader of Pakistan Delegation
2 October 2007

"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."

“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.”

Ukraine
His Excellency Mr. Volodymyr Khandogiy, First Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine
3 October 2007

“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.”

Tajikistan
H.E. Mr. Sirodjidin Aslov, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Tajikistan to the United Nations
3 October 2007

“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.”

Sierra Leone
H.E. Profesor Joe R. Pemagbi, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
3 October 2007

“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."

Armenia
H.E. Mr. Vartan Oskanian, Minister for Foreign Affairs
3 October 2007

"At the same time, the major political, social and environmental issues on this Assembly’s agenda peace and security, economic growth and sustainable development, human rights, disarmament, drugs, crime, international terrorism – know no borders."

"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."

Ireland
H.E. Mr. Dermot Ahern, T.D., Minister for Foreign Affairs
3 October 2007

“Ireland's historic commitment to nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation continues.”

Peru
H.E. Mr. Gonzalo Gutiérrez Reinel, Vice Minister and Secretary General of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007

“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.”

Non-Proliferation

Kazakhstan
H.E. Mr. Nursultan A. Nazarbayev, President
25 September 2007

"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."

United States of America
H.E. Mr. George W. Bush, President
25 September 2007

"Together, we're working to stop the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction."

Macedonia
H.E. Branko Crvenkovski, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Chile
H.E. Ms. Michelle Bachelet, President
25 September 2007

"[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."

"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 . . ."

European Union
H.E. Mr. Jose Socrates, Prime Minister of Portugal
25 September 2007

"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."

Indonesia
H.E. Dr. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Ivan Gasparovic, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Finland
H.E. Tarja Halonen, President
26 September 2007

"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

"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."

Lithuania
H.E. Valdas Adamkus, President
26 September 2007

"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."

Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Mr. Zeljko Komsic, Chairman of the Presidency
26 September 2007

"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."

Paraguay
H.E. Nicanor Duarte Frutos, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Marshall Islands
H.E. Mr. Kessai H. Note, President
28 September 2007

"In the area of disarmament and non-proliferation, our collective efforts need to be invigorated to overcome stalemate."

Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Sergey Viktorovich Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

“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.”

China
H.E. Mr. Yang Jiechi, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

"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."

Egypt
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

"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."

Austria
H.E. Ms. Ursula Plassnik, Federal Minister for European and International Affairs
28 September 2007

"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."

Bulgaria
H.E. Mr. Ivailo Kalfin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

Unofficial Translation from French

"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."

Bahrain
H.E. Mr. Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmed Bin Mohamed Al-Khalifa, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

"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."

Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. Song Min-soon, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade
28 September 2007

"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."

"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."

Iceland
H.E. Mrs. Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade
28 September 2007

"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."

Romania
H.E. Mr. Adrian Mihai Cioroianu, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

Unofficial Translation

"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."

"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."

Cambodia
H.E. Mr. Hor Namhong, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
1 October 2007

"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."

Moldova
H.E. Mr. Andrei Stratan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs and European Integration
1 October 2007

"The United Nations have represented for decades an adequate forum for tackling different problems related to disarmament and non-proliferation."

Holy See
H.E. Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, Secretary for the Holy See's Relations with States
1 October 2007

"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."

Hungary
H.E. Ms. Kinga Göncz, Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007

"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."

India
H.E. Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, Minister of External Affairs
1 October 2007

"It is disarmament that is our agreed goal, and that subsumes arms control and nonproliferation."

"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."

Congo
H.E. Mr. Basile Ikouebe, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and la Francophonie
2 October 2007

Unofficial Translation

"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."

Sweden
H.E. Mr. Anders Lidén, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
2 October 2007

"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."

"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."

Maldives
Mr. Abdulla Shahid, Minister for Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007

“The Maldives also reiterates its steadfast opposition to the development proliferation or use of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction.”

Pakistan
H.E. Mr. Riaz Mohammad Khan, Foreign Secretary and Leader of Pakistan Delegation
2 October 2007

"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."

“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.”

Ukraine
His Excellency Mr. Volodymyr Khandogiy, First Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine
3 October 2007

“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.”

Tajikistan
H.E. Mr. Sirodjidin Aslov, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Tajikistan to the United Nations
3 October 2007

“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.”

Ireland
H.E. Mr. Dermot Ahern, T.D., Minister for Foreign Affairs
3 October 2007

“Ireland's historic commitment to nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation continues.”

Peru
H.E. Mr. Gonzalo Gutiérrez Reinel, Vice Minister and Secretary General of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007

“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.”

Security

President of the 62nd General Assembly
H.E. Dr. Srgjan Kerim
25 September 2007

"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."

Kazakhstan
H.E. Mr. Nursultan A. Nazarbayev, President
25 September 2007

"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."

"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."

Qatar
His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Emir
25 September 2007

"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."

Iran
H.E. Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Angola
H.E. Mr. Jose Eduardo dos Santos, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Switzerland
H.E. Mrs Micheline Calmy-Rey, President
26 September 2007

"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."

"Let us not be mistaken, there can be no peace or security without international justice."

Italy
H.E. Professor Ramano Prodi, Prime Minister
25 September 2007

"[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."

Finland
H.E. Tarja Halonen, President
26 September 2007

"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."

Cuba
H.E. Mr Felipe Perez Roque, Minister of Foreign Affairs
26 September 2007

"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."

Iraq
H.E. Mr. Nuri Kamel Al-Maliki, Prime Minister
26 September 2007

"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."

"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."

Kuwait
H.E. Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al Salem Al Sabah, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2007

"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."

Paraguay
H.E. Nicanor Duarte Frutos, President
25 September 2007

"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."

"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

"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."

"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."

Mauritius
H.E. Dr. The Honourable Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Prime Minister
28 September 2007

"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."

Saint Lucia
H.E. Mr. Stephenson King, Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, External Affairs, Home Affairs and National Security
28 September 2007

"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."

Russian Federation
H.E. Mr. Sergey Viktorovich Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

"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."

“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.”

Egypt
H.E. Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

"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."

United Arab Emirates
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

"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."

Austria
H.E. Ms. Ursula Plassnik, Federal Minister for European and International Affairs
28 September 2007

"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."

Bulgaria
H.E. Mr. Ivailo Kalfin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

Unofficial Translation from French

"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."

Bahrain
H.E. Mr. Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmed Bin Mohamed Al-Khalifa, Minister of Foreign Affairs
28 September 2007

"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."

"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."

Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. Song Min-soon, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade
28 September 2007

"Development, human rights, and peace and security are the three pillars of the United Nations. They are all imperatives, and they are mutually reinforcing."

Iceland
H.E. Mrs. Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade
28 September 2007

"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."

Cambodia
H.E. Mr. Hor Namhong, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
1 October 2007

"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."

Lao People's Democratic Republic
H.E. Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
1 October 2007

"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."

Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
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

"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."

Sweden
H.E. Mr. Anders Lidén, Ambassador and Permanent Representative
2 October 2007

"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."

Uzbekistan
H.E. Mr. Vladimir Norov, Minister for Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007

“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.”

Costa Rica
H.E. Mr. Bruno Stagno Ugarte, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Worship
2 October 2007

“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.”

“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.”

“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.”

Jamaica
H.E. Dr. The Honourable Kenneth Baugh, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
2 October 2007

"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."

"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, transnational organized crime and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction continue to threaten international peace and security."

Suriname
H.E. Lygia Kraag-Keteldijk, Minister of Foreign Affairs
3 October 2007

"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."

Canada
H.E. Mr. Maxime Bernier, Minister for Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007

"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."

Ireland
H.E. Mr. Dermot Ahern, T.D., Minister for Foreign Affairs
3 October 2007

“Because after six decades, the core goal of the United Nations – universal peace and security - still eludes us.”

“We must solve the humanitarian and security crisis while simultaneously establishing the foundations for longer-term peace and development.”

Seychelles
H.E. Mr. Patrick Pillay, Minister of Foreign Affairs
3 October 2007

“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.”

Belize
H.E. Ms. Lisa Shoman, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
2 October 2007

“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.”

Somalia
H.E. Mr. Husein Elabe Fahiye, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
2 October 2007

“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.”

“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.”

Greece
H.E. Dr. Yannis Valinakis, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2007

“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.”

Multilateralism

United Nations Secretary-General
H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General
25 September 2007

"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."

Brazil
H.E. Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Kazakhstan
H.E. Mr. Nursultan A. Nazarbayev, President
25 September 2007

"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

"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."

"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."

"Ghana believes that the United Nations remains the ideal multilateral instrument available for maintaining international peace and security and for promoting fruitful international cooperation."

Chile
H.E. Ms. Michelle Bachelet, President
25 September 2007

"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 . . ."

"[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

"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."

South Africa
H.E. Mr. Thabo Mbeki, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Indonesia
H.E. Dr. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Switzerland
H.E. Mrs Micheline Calmy-Rey, President
26 September 2007

"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."

Angola
H.E. Mr. Jose Eduardo dos Santos, President
25 September 2007

"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."

Italy
H.E. Professor Ramano Prodi, Prime Minister
25 September 2007

"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."

Germany
H.E. Dr. Angela Merkel, Chancellor
25 September 2007

"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."

Zambia
H.E. Mr. Levy Patrick Mwanawasa, S.C., President
26 September 2007

"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."

Swaziland
His Majesty King Mswati III
26 September 2007

"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."

Iraq
H.E. Mr. Nuri Kamel Al-Maliki, Prime Minister
26 September 2007

"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."

Rwanda
H.E. Paul Kagame, President
27 September 2007

"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.'"

Serbia
H.E. Mr. Boris Tadic, President
27 September 2007

"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."

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

"We support multilateral solutions to common problems."

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

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

Marshall Islands
H.E. Mr. Kessai H. Note, President
28 September 2007

"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."

Samoa
H.E. The Honourable Tuila'epa Sailele Malielegaoi, Prime Minister
28 September 2007

"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."

"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