Transcribed Opening Statement of the Ambassador
Mr. Juan Enrique Vega of Chile, President of
the Conference on Disarmament 3/8/01

I call to order the 869th plenary session of the Conference on Disarmament. First of all, allow me extend cordial welcome on behalf of the Conference and speaking personally, to the representatives of Non-Governmental Organizations which are with us today. As you know, today is International WomenÕs Day. Accordingly and pursuant to established practice here in the office, participants in the annual Disarmament Seminar associated with International WomenÕs Day have addressed a message to the Conference. IÕm quite sure that I can convey the feeling of the Conference when extending our very best wishes to all the women who are present at the forum and say how much we appreciate their tireless devotion to peace and disarmament. As well as their abiding concern in our work. IÕd also like to once again to welcome Ambassador Eui-Yong Chung Permanent Representative of the Republic of Korea who is attending the meetings of the Conference on Disarmament for the first time. We welcome you Ambassador and we look forward to cooperating fully with you. I would also like to greet Dr. Rajmah Hussain, the new Ambassador of Malaysia. WeÕre very pleased to welcome her on a day such as today, when we are celebrating International WomenÕs Day. With her we would like to greet all the Ambassadors present.