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UNGA Disarmament Index 2010: S–Z

This is an index of all references made to issues of disarmament, peace, and security, made in the 65th General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly from 23–30 September 2010. Included in this index are all references made to arms control, disarmament, multilateralism, nuclear energy, security, proliferation, the arms trade, and nuclear and conventional weapons.

A–G | H–R | S–Z

Saint Kitts and Nevis | Saint Lucia  Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | Samoa |San Marino | Sao Tome and Principe | Saudi Arabia | Senegal | Serbia | Seychelles | Sierra Leone | Singapore | Slovakia | Slovenia | Soloman Islands | Somalia | South Africa | South Sudan | Spain | Sri Lanka | Sudan | Suriname | Swaziland | Sweden| Switzerland | Syria
Tajikistan | Tanzania | Thailand | Timor Leste | Togo | Trinidad and Tobago | Tunisia | Turkey | Turkmenistan | Tuvalu
Uganda | Ukraine | United Arab Emirates | United Kingdom | United States | Uruguay | Uzbekistan
Vanuatu | Venezuela | Viet Nam | Yemen | Zambia | Zimbabwe

Saint Kitts and Nevis
H.E. Mr. Sam Condor, Deputy Prime Minister
27 September 2010

Multilateralism: “Notwithstanding the absence of absolute synergies in all areas of our multinational cooperative endeavors there can be little doubt that we have established a solid foundation that allows us to envision new and exciting horizons. The realization of these
however, requires that as we contemplate bold initiatives comparable to the challenges faced, the United Nations must itself be prepared to further deepen its engagement with member states.”

Saint Lucia
H.E. Mr. Stephenson King, Prime Minister
24 September 2010

Small arms and light weapons: “We call for a comprehensive treaty on small arms and light weapons, alongside the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. Small arms and light weapons account for more deaths than natural causes in some parts of the world.”

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
H.E Camillo M. Gonsalves, Permanent representative of Saint Vincent and Grenadines to the United Nations
29 September 2010

Peace, militarism: “Saint Vincent and the Grenadines makes miniscule monetary and military contributions to the UN. But our contribution to the maintenance of international peace and security is measured in our historical aversion to wars, our culture of tolerance, peace and plurality and a small state perspective that understands that peace are not always best achieved with millions of dollars or armed enforces, but often with dialogue and small but meaningful peace building actions. Our contribution is succinctly captured in our national motto, which translated from Latin, reads simply “Peace and Justice”.

Small arms: “Saint Vincent and the Grenadines echoes and adopts as our own the proposals enunciated by our CARICOM sister states for prompt action on the global challenges of non-communicable diseases, small arms, narcotics, and transnational crime, the decade-old Doha Development Round of trade negotiations, international cooperation in tax matters and concessional assistance and debt relief for middle income island states. We cannot allow narrow ideological agendas to distract us or detract from the accomplishment of these tasks, upon which there is a broad agreement.”

Samoa
H.E. Mr. Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, Prime Minister
27 September 2010

Weapons of mass destruction, non-proliferation, WMD terrorism: “The non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the risk of their acquisition by terrorists, criminals and others should continue to be a top priority of the United Nations.”

Nuclear terrorism, nuclear weapons, disarmament, nuclear weapon free zone: “Nuclear terrorism is one of the most challenging threats and hazards for international peace and security. A world without nuclear weapons is safer, more secure and a prosperous place to live. We have heard from this podium the renewed efforts by the major nuclear weapons powers to restart the reduction of their nuclear arsenals. This is encouraging, but we believe that the only absolute guarantee against the use and threat of use of nuclear weapons is through their total elimination, In this connection, we are comforted by the announcement earlier in the year by the United States Government that it was moving towards ratification of the Pacific region’s Nuclear Free Zone Treaty.”

San Marino
H.E. Ms. Antonella Mularoni, Prime Minister

27 September 2010

Multilateralism: “Today, the theme of Global governance is inevitably linked to a new way of conceiving multilateralism and to a new form of international cooperation, which acknowledges the interdependence of the problems we have to face, either internationally, nationally, or regionally. We have learned from the crises of the last few years that it is necessary to adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach, a more effective mechanism to coordinate our policies and a global and coordinated course of action.”

Sao Tome and Principe
H.E. Mr. Carlos Alberto Pires Tiny, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2010

Multilateralism: “The defense of multilateralism is of vital importance.”

Nuclear energy: “Sao Tome expresses its concern at attempts to use nuclear energy for non-peaceful purposes. And hopes that its users do so in accordance with the existing mechanisms of international regulations supervision.”

Senegal
H.E. Mr. Abdoulaye Wade, President
24 September 2010

No relevant references.

Serbia
H.E. Mr. Boris Tadic, President
25 September 2010

No relevant references.

Seychelles
H.E. Mr. Jean-Paul Adam, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2010

No relevant references.

Sierra Leone
H.E. Mr. Ernest Bai Koroma
23 September 2010

Multilateralism: “More than any other organization, we support the United Nations as a centre of global governance. It has a unique characteristic of global mandate and universal membership. This makes it an indispensable and neutral catalyst for the achievement of ‘international cooperation in solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural, or humanitarian character’. This centrality of the role of the United Nations in global governance cannot be over-emphasized.”

Singapore
H.E. Mr. George Yeo, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010

No relevant references.

Slovakia
H.E. Mr. Ivan Gašparovic, President
23 September 2010

Multilateralism: “The foreign policy of Slovakia, as UN member, is based on respect for the core democratic values, international law and effective multilateralism. We therefore welcome and support the main theme of the 65th Session of the UN GA ‘Reaffirming the Central Role of the United Nations in Global Governance’. This topic is all the more important, since we often witness failure to respect binding decisions taken by UN bodies, and from time to time even among the various UN institutions.”

Peace, security: “One of the most important missions of the UN is to act as a guarantor of the formulation, protection and implementation of the principle of collective security of States. Hence, the preservation of international peace and security at a global level and within the bounds of international law must remain at the core of UN activities. For peace and security become particularly vulnerable in times of global financial and economic crises. They require increased attention on our part in order to remain under the control of States and the international community.”

Disarmament, non-proliferation, weapon of mass-destruction, terrorism, CTBT: “The process of arms control and disarmament represents the most important instrument for the prevention of war conflicts. The progress achieved in the area of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction gives us a reason for cautious optimism. Our duty is to continue the effort and strengthen the global system of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Yet, the risk of such weapons falling in the hands of terrorists remains high. We are also prepared to cooperate with our partners on a number of priorities, such as the entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test Ban Treaty.”

Disarmament, START, Conference on Disarmament: “We appreciate the new post-START treaty between the Russian Federation and the U.S. We believe that the treaty will invigorate the process of disarmament, which is getting off the ground, and increase pressure on certain states to desist from their ambitions to own nuclear weapons. In particular, I wish to underscore the important role played by the Conference on Disarmament, which is referred to as the sole multilateral disarmament negotiating forum.”

Small arms, arms trade treaty: “In the area of conventional weapons, it is necessary to continue negotiations leading to the adoption of an effective arms trade treaty. Adequate attention must also be paid to small arms whose uncontrolled spreading may have devastating consequences for the maintenance of peace and security, particularly in conflict areas.”

Slovenia
H.E. Mr. Borut Pahor, Prime Minister
25 September 2010

No relevant references.

Solomon Islands
H.E. Mr. Peter Shanel Agovaka, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade
27 September 2010

Multilateralism: “Solomon Islands believe in multilateralism and value the importance of having a closer working relationship between the United Nations and member states.”

Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “My delegation welcomes the outcome of the summer nuclear Conference. The existence of the nuclear weapons continues to pose a significant threat to humanity. History has shown the horror, depth and devastation of nuclear weapons. Solomon Islands support total elimination of all nuclear weapons as the only absolute guarantee in having a safe and secure world.”

Somalia
H.E. Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, President of the Transitional Federal Government
25 September 2010

No relevant references.

South Africa
H.E. Ms. Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, Minister for International Relations and Cooperation
25 September 2010

Multilateralism: “Despite the challenges that face humanity in the 21st century, the relevance of the United Nations as a multilateral mechanism through which a myriad of complex world affairs can be administered and resolved cannot be over-emphasized.”

WMD, disarmament, disarmament machinery: “This world, Excellencies, should be free of weapons of mass destruction in accordance with our undertakings on total disarmament. In this regard South Africa welcomes the recently agreed program of work of the Conference on Disarmament.”

Spain
H.E. Mr. Miguel Angel Moratinos Cuyaube, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
25 September 2010

Multilateralism: “We should establish new mechanisms of global governance in order to update the system of international relations. We should also strengthen multilateralism and security, reinforce the way out from the global recession and properly manage the growing interculturalism.”

“An effective multilateralism is the method that will allow us to face the global challenges of the twentieth century; a method that stems from the efforts of this General Assembly and the commitment and work of the leaders of the States here represented; a method based on respect and recognition to establish new alliances and build common strategies and policies.”

“This capacity to act and effectively give expression to the effort of all countries through a multilateral approach is the way for the international system to meet the challenges we presently face.”

Disarmament, non-proliferation, START, nuclear weapon free zone: “This year significant progress has also been made in security, disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation matters. The new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) makes possible the reduction of 30 percent of the nuclear heads deployed by the United States and Russia, and represents the greatest nuclear agreement in 20 years. Last May, all 189 countries signatories to the Non-Proliferation Nuclear Treaty approved the convening of a Conference in 2012 to transform the Middle East into a zone free of weapons of mass destruction.”

Sri Lanka
H.E. Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa, President
23 September 2010

Multilateralism: “In order to achieve the full realization of our potential, we desire a supportive external environment. Towards this end, we will always look for constructive engagement and partnerships. We will, from our side, continue to contribute as we have always done, to the cause of multilateralism and a principled global order.”

Sudan
H.E. Mr. Ali Osman Mohamed Taha, Vice-President
27 September 2010

Nuclear weapon free zone, nuclear energy: “We call for a Middle East that is free of nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction and underline the rights of states who have acquired nuclear technology for peaceful uses.”

Suriname
H.E. Mr. Desiré Delano Bouterse, President
25 September 2010

No relevant references.

Swaziland
H.M. King Mswati III, Head of State
25 September 2010

Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation, disarmament: “The UN must never compromise the execution of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons by ensuring that all countries, without exception, comply. Countries must be made to comply and be accountable within clear timeframes.”

“Our world today continues to be concerned with nuclear proliferation and the threat that weapons of mass destruction poses on human existence, world, peace, economic development and the environment. The spread of nuclear weapons makes a mockery of our efforts for world peace and protection of the environment. It is a dishearten fact that currently efforts to ensure accountability and compliance with UN resolutions are hindered by apparent lack of impartiality in the process meant to completely rid the world of deadly nuclear weapons.”

Weapons of mass destruction, nuclear weapons, disarmament: “It is my suggestion that we eliminate all weapons of mass destruction because they present an uncertain future. Indeed, we need a fresh start so that we may regain the high moral ground in deterring whoever may have ambitions of nuclear capability in the future….if we compel everyone to dismantle their nuclear capacity we will be able to reign in on other countries which may still be developing their arsenal, without being accused of unfairness or bias.”

Non-proliferation: “I call upon the United Nations to strengthen the capacity of the international atomic energy agency to enable the inspectors to do their work more effectively-with involvement of all the countries with nuclear capability.”

Sweden
H.E. Mr. Marten Grunditz, Chairman of the Delegation
28 September 2010

Conventional weapons, arms trade treaty: “The control of conventional arms is also an urgent priority. Illicit or uncontrolled spread of such weapons contributes to regional and international instability, maiming and killing thousands. We must seize the opportunity and strive together to find the political will to agree on regulating mechanisms, such as is currently being discussed in the form of an Arms Trade Treaty.”

Nuclear weapons, disarmament, non-proliferation, START: “We strive for a world without nuclear weapons. World leaders have made significant progress in disarmament and non-proliferation efforts in the past years. The new START agreement is of great importance, but there is scope for further reductions not least of non-strategic nuclear arsenals.”

“The spread of nuclear weapons must be stopped. The Action Plan adopted at the NPT Review Conference in May, covering the three, mutually reinforcing pillars of the NPT must be implemented and fully respected.”

CTBT: “The early entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty CTBT is as urgent as ever.”

Disarmament machinery: “The unacceptable deadlock in the Conference of Disarmament must come to an end.”

DPRK nuclear programme, Iran’s nuclear programme: “We are deeply concerned that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea has continued its withdrawal from the NPT, even having tested two nuclear devices, and that Iran has been conducting activities in violations of its NPT commitments. It is of vital importance that commitments under the NPT are honoured.”

Switzerland
H.E. Ms. Doris Leuthart, President
23 September 2010

Weapons of mass destruction, peace, security, small arms and light weapons: “Thirty years after the end of the Cold War, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction remains a grave threat to peace and security. But the gravest harm among civilian populations is caused by small arms and light weapons.”

Multiateralism: “Switzerland remains firmly convinced of the appropriateness of a multilateral approach, with the United Nations at its centre.”

Syrian Arab Republic
H.E. Mr. Walid Al-Moualem, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010

Nuclear weapon free zone, nuclear weapons, Israel’s nuclear programme: “My country has been advocating the establishment of a nuclear weapon free zone in the Middle East since 2003, a demand we included in a resolution we tabled before the Security Council at the time. We continue to stress that Israel must comply with international decisions calling on it to adhere to the Non Proliferation Treaty and to submit its nuclear installations to the IAEA safeguards regime. Israeli accession to the Treaty is of extreme significance for the security and stability of the region. We often wonder why they talk about the universality of the NPT but hasten to make strenuous efforts to shelter Israel from the Agency’s oversight. They are encouraging Israel to continue developing its nuclear military program which is a cause of concern to the people of the Middle East.”

Nuclear energy: “We reaffirm that all states have the right to acquire nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, as guaranteed by the NPT. We also call for the peaceful resolution of all disputes relevant to this aspect through dialogue.”

Tajikistan
H.E. Mr. Emomali Rahmon, President
23 September 2010

Multilateralism, peace: “Within the new format of multilateral cooperation our efforts are aimed at counteracting terrorism and narcotics threat that are difficult to uproot unless the problems of poverty, unemployment, and other urgent social issues are dealt with, and these efforts are called on to strengthen and specify global measures aimed at strengthening of the peace process.”

Thailand
H.E. Mr. Kasit Piromya, Minister for Foreign Affairs
29 September 2010

Security: “Development is linked to human security which is linked to human rights. People must have freedom from want as well as from fear.”

Disarmament, non-proliferation, security, nuclear weapon free zone: “Thailand believes that global disarmament and non-proliferation are essential to level the security playing field, to dispel the sense of power and security imbalance. The United Nations must continue its active role to this end, but major powers and regional entities must do their fair share-the Southeast Asian Nuclear-Weapon free Zone Treaty (SEANWFZ) is a good case in point.”

WMD, disarmament, non-proliferation: “Thailand supports international efforts towards the disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.”

WMD terrorism: “We have consistently abided by the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and are gravely concerned with the threat of the proliferation of such weapons to terrorists. That is why Thailand has recently joined the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism.”

Peace: “Thailand aspires to work closely with our international partners to ensure the path towards war is rerouted towards peace- and never tread again.”

Timor-Leste
H.E. Mr. José Ramos-Horta, President
25 September 2010

Iran’s nuclear programme: “We fully subscribe to Iran's legitimate rights to develop nuclear technology for peaceful purposes and we caution the powers that be not to haste in reaching conclusions that may lead to irreversible catastrophic decisions.”

Nuclear energy: “We do have serious doubts, however, about the reliability and safety of nuclear energy. Let's not forget the lessons of the Three Mile Island accident which occurred at 4?? 28th March 1979 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and the even worse Chernobyl nuclear meltdown of April 1986. The recent catastrophe of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico would pale by comparison with a blow up of a nuclear energy facility.”

Nuclear weapons: “We don't know whether Iranian rulers do have the desire to be an armed nuclear power or not. But what we do know is that the possession of nuclear weapons is not a short cut to super-power status as some in Asia seem to think and does not insure anyone against 21st Century conventional and non-conventional security threats. Nuclear weapons were developed as aresult of the tragic experiences of World War II and of mutual suspicion and fears pervasive among the powers at the time. They have become obsolete.”

Nuclear weapons, WMD terrorism: “The mighty Soviet nuclear and conventional arsenals were not able to prevent the implosion of the Empire and the liberation of hundreds of millions of people and the reunification of Germany. And nuclear weapons are not going to be of much help in the on-going ethnic, religious and border disputes in Asia. We pray to God the Almighty and the Merciful that these weapons and others, chemical and biological, do not have ever fall into the hands of extremist non-state entities.”

Togo
H.E. Mr. Gilbert Fossoun Houngbo, Prime Minister
24 September 2010

Multilateralism: “The United Nations must remain at the heart of multilateralism.”

Tonga
H.E. Mr. Sonatane Taumoepeau-Tupou, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2010

Non-proliferation, nuclear weapon free zone: “Tonga welcomes the successful conclusion of the 2010 Review of the Non Proliferation Treaty (‘NPT’) and in particular the continuing acknowledgement of the concerns of SIDS over the safe transport of radioactive materials by sea and the announcement by the United States of its intention to pursue ratification of the Protocol(s) to the Treaty of Rarotonga.”

Trinidad and Tobago
H.E. Ms. Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister
27 September 2010

Small arms and light weapons, ammunition, non-proliferation, disarmament and development: “Another persistent matter which is receiving the attention of my government and other governments of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is the illegal proliferation of small arms and light weapons and their ammunition. In our attempts at addressing this problem, we have had to divert financial resources which otherwise could have been used for economic and social development. Additionally, we have observed an increase in gang-related violence, homicides, the illegal narcotics trade and organized crime. The origin of the illicit trade in these weapons is beyond our national borders, and is international in dimension. It therefore requires a global response.”

Arms trade treaty, small arms and light weapons: “We are encouraged by the attempts of the United Nations to conclude a legally binding agreement to regulate the trade in conventional weapons. It is our view that this instrument must also make provision for regulating the trade in small arms and light weapons thereby preventing their illegal diversion. Trinidad and Tobago also calls for a strong and effective implementation regime to ensure proper compliance with the provisions of the treaty. It must also include a proper verification mechanism and a sanctions regime for breach of its terms. These safeguards would assist in preserving the object and purpose of the agreement.”

“In the Caribbean, our weapons of mass destruction are small arms and light weapons. I implore all those States which have been reticent about the need for an ATT to join us in this undertaking. I pledge the commitment of my government to work with other like minded states, such as Australia to ensure a successful outcome of the Preparatory Committee ultimately, and the UN Conference on the Arms Trade Treaty scheduled to take place in 2012.”

Non-proliferation, nuclear weapons, chemical weapons: “We have partnered with other members of the international community to establish rules governing the non-proliferation of nuclear, chemical, and other types of weapons that could create untold suffering on humanity.”

Disarmament, non-proliferation, gender, peace, security: “Ten years ago the Security Council adopted Resolution 1325 on women, peace, and security, acknowledging that there is no sustainable peace and security without the involvement and contribution of women. Trinidad and Tobago is committed to advancing the peace and security agenda of the UN. My country’s attachment to the promotion of women is equally strong. That is why I wish to announce that Trinidad and Tobago will introduce in the First Committee of the General Assembly devoted to disarmament, internal peace and security, a resolution on ‘women, disarmament, arms control and non proliferation’. I pledge the support of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago for this initiative.”

Tunisia
H.E. Mr. Kamel Morjane, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010

No relevant references.

Turkey
H.E. Mr. Abdullah Gül, President
23 September 2010

Nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, nuclear weapon free zones, weapons of mass destruction: “Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is one of the risks of our contemporary world. We cannot overcome this menace unless all member states, including nuclear ones, adopt a just and principled approach in their respective policies. Establishing a credible global non-proliferation regime would not be achievable, while ignoring de facto existence of nuclear weapons of certain countries at the heart of most delicate regions. In this context, I would like to call upon all member states to intensify their efforts in creating a ‘Weapons of Mass Destruction Free Zone in the Middle East’ as was envisaged by the UN Security Council Resolution 687 of 1991 and as also repeatedly called for by the General Assembly. We also support the calls at the New York NPT Review Conference of May 2010 for convening a conference on WMD Free Zone in the Middle East in 2012. I believe this initial step would be a sine qua non for all non-proliferation initiatives in the rest of the world.”

Military spending: “If we allocate a small fraction of our defense expenditures to the financing and establishment of this new capability [a Global Rapid Reaction Capability to effectively tackle natural and ecological disasters, food shortages and epidemics], we would have more cost efficient results in maintaining peace and stability in the world. Moreover, if we could pool some of our defense equipment that lost its effective utilization in military terms but are still relevant for disaster relief operations, we would swiftly build the said rapid reaction capability.”

Iran’s nuclear programme: “Our contributions to international efforts in the search for an urgent and peaceful settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue will also continue. Resolving this controversy can only be achieved in conformity with the IAEA norms and NPT obligations, respecting the right to peaceful use of nuclear energy. In this vein, the Tehran Declaration and the July gathering in Istanbul provide a window of opportunity to be seized. We believe there is no alternative to diplomacy.”

Multilateralism: “In responding to those security challenges, we should keep in mind that global problems cannot be solved unilaterally, bilaterally or in small circles of like-minded nations. Therefore, it is important today, more than ever, that we adopt a multilateral approach to global problems.”

“I wish to reiterate our view that the United Nations can and should play an even larger role in charting a better future for the humankind. It is up to us, Member States, to provide the United Nations with the necessary political support and the concrete tools so that it can fulfill that role. I can assure you that for its part, Turkey will continue to lend its full support and cooperation to this august body in our quest to leave a much safer, more prosperous, cleaner and healthier world to our children.”

Uganda
H.E. Mr. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President
24 September 2010

No relevant references.

Ukraine
H.E. Mr. Viktor Yanukovych, President
23 September 2010

Security, peace: “We all know that sustainable development is impossible without security, and security is impossible without sustainable development. Ukraine has always been an active contributor to peace and security worldwide. I believe that our contribution is beyond any doubt.”

Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation: “In 1994 we were the first in the world to voluntarily give up the third most powerful nuclear arsenal. Sixteen years have passed, but that decision of Ukraine has not lost its importance. In April of this year, Ukraine took a next step at the Washington Summit on Nuclear Safety by announcing its decision to get rid of all its stocks of highly enriched uranium.”

Nuclear weapons, security: “The experience of the recent decades shows that nuclear weapons do not always increase security. Moreover, the countries that try to acquire nuclear weapons may be exposed to the impact of new risks and become more vulnerable.”

Non-proliferation, nuclear disarmament, START: “The best way to counter proliferation of nuclear weapons is to achieve its gradual total elimination. We welcome the signing of a new START Treaty between the USA and Russia as well as further reduction of their national nuclear arsenals. Today there is also an urgent need for concrete steps to reduce the risks related to the proliferation of nuclear materials and technology. We encourage all the UN Member States to follow our example in the area of global nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation.”

Negative security assurances: “In view of those steps, Ukraine hopes to see our international partners unswervingly comply with their obligations with regard to the security guarantees for my country. I mean primarily the Budapest Memorandum of 1994. Ukraine insists that security guarantees for the states that have disposed of their nuclear arsenals and for the countries that do not belong to any military alliance should be reflected in a legally binding international instrument. This is the best way to ward off regional nuclear ambitions.”

Nuclear energy: “Against the backdrop of environmental, financial, economic and energy challenges, peaceful use of nuclear energy is becoming increasingly crucial. The states that possess nuclear technologies bear a huge responsibility to their own people, neighbors and all mankind. Next year the world will commemorate a sad date, the 25th anniversary of the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. That tragedy is still an open wound for us. Overcoming its consequences remains a serious challenge for the international community as the scale of the problems requires a coordinated effort involving all of our international partners. Ukraine plans to host a High-Level International Conference ‘Twenty-five years of the Chernobyl Disaster. Security for the Future’. We intend to hold it in Kiev, in April 2011, and with UN participation. The forum should assess progress in restoration and normalization of life in the affected regions and discuss nuclear safety issues.”

United Arab Emirates
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010

Disarmament, non-proliferation, nuclear weapons: “We would like to emphasize that the international community continues to face significant challenges that demand collective actions in all fields. These challenges include ... non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and disarmament.”

“While we reaffirm our commitment to the requirements of non-proliferation, we wish to express our satisfaction with the positive atmosphere that prevailed during the last Review Conference of the Parties to Non-proliferation Treaty, and the balanced and responsible recommendations issued by the conference.”

Nuclear weapon free zone, Israel’s nuclear programme, IAEA safeguards: “We reiterate our principled position which calls for making the Gulf Region and the Middle East a zone free of weapons of mass destruction, especially nuclear weapons. We also call for exerting pressure on Israel to implement the resolution adopted by Parties of the Treaty to join the NPT unconditionally, like all other States in the region, and subject its nuclear facilities to the comprehensive safeguards system of the IAEA.”

Iran’s nuclear programme: “We urge the Islamic Republic of Iran to fully cooperate with the IAEA and the international community in order to allay regional and international fears and doubts raised on the nature of its nuclear program. We also call up on the respective parties to resolve the differences on Iran’s nuclear program through peaceful means.”

Nuclear terrorism: “We welcome the positive results of the conference on combating nuclear terrorism held in Washington. My country is an active member in the regional and international partnerships and efforts aimed at combating terrorism, including the global initiative for combating nuclear terrorism. We will continue our efforts to strengthen cooperation in the areas of intelligence exchange, capacity building, combating and drying up sources. Our efforts in this regard will continue until the world gets rid of this growing scourge.”

Nuclear energy: “The measures undertaken by the United Arab Emirates for building its program for the peaceful uses of nuclear energy in order to meet its growing energy requirements in the future, rely entirely on the highest standards of transparency, nuclear safety and non-proliferation, and carried out under the supervision of the IAEA in full cooperation with the agency and other friendly and responsible states with relevant experience in this field.”

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
H.E. Mr. Nicholas Clegg, Deputy Prime Minister
24 September 2010

Multilateralism: “All of us have to respond to a world that is profoundly altered. As a community of nations we face three profound challenges: a redrawing of the map of power, including a big shift in economic power; the globalisation of problems, not least terrorism and climate change; increasingly fluid forms of identity, and the rapid circulation and potency of new ideas. Taken together these mean that we are in a new world. All three demand matching responses. So we must; reform and renew our multilateral institutions in line with the changing map of power; strengthen our actions on international peacebuilding, climate change and development; promote liberal values and human rights to win the conflict of ideas.”

“The work of international institutions must continue to be guided by the values on which those institutions were founded: the rule of law – both domestic and international; the right to freedom of expression and belief; democracy; and equality before the law.”

Nuclear weapons, non-proliferation: “The prevention of nuclear weapons proliferation is another huge priority for the international community. The UK welcomes the success of the NPT Review Conference this May and I can assure the Assembly that we will continue to play our part in making the world safer from the threat of nuclear weapons.”

Iran’s nuclear programme: “I was ready today to welcome the progress made in this week’s meeting of the E3+3 group on Iran. I was ready to also straightforwardly reiterate our concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme. But instead, once again, an issue of grave global concern has been overshadowed by the bizarre, offensive and attention-grabbing pronouncements by President Ahmedinejad from this podium yesterday. His remarks were intended to distract attention from Iran’s obligations and to generate media headlines. They deserve to do neither.”

United Republic of Tanzania
H.E. Mr. Mizengo Pinda, Prime Minister
27 September 2010

No relevant references.

United States of America
H.E. Mr. Barack Obama, President
23 September 2010

Non-proliferation, START, nuclear doctrines: “As we pursue the world’s most dangerous extremists, we are also denying them the world’s most dangerous weapons, and pursuing the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons. Earlier this year, 47 nations embraced a work-plan to secure all vulnerable nuclear materials within four years. We have joined with Russia to sign the most comprehensive arms control agreement in decades. We have reduced the role of nuclear weapons in our security strategy. And here, at the U.N., we came together to strengthen the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.”

Iran’s nuclear programme: “As part of our efforts on non-proliferation, I offered the Islamic Republic of Iran an extended hand last year, and underscored that it has both rights and responsibilities as a member of the international community. I also said – in this hall – that Iran must be held accountable if it failed to meet those responsibilities. That is what we have done. Iran is the only party to the NPT that cannot demonstrate the peaceful intentions of its nuclear program, and those actions have consequences.”

“The United States and the international community seek a resolution to our differences with Iran, and the door remains open to diplomacy should Iran choose to walk through it. But the Iranian government must demonstrate a clear and credible commitment, and confirm to the world the peaceful intent of its nuclear program.”

Uruguay
H.E. Mr. Luis Leonardo Almagro, Minister of Foreign Affairs
29 September 2010

Nuclear weapons, WMD, disarmament: “We have decidedly furthered all measures aimed at the elimination of nuclear arms and other weapons of mass destruction.”

Conventional weapons, non-proliferation, disarmament: “We have also advocated the control and reduction of conventional weapons.”

Nuclear weapon free zone, disarmament, non-proliferation: “In its capacity as a member country of the Tlatelolco Treaty that has established Latin America and the Caribbean as the first nuclear weapon free zone in a densely populated area of the world, Uruguay has contributed to strengthening both the regional Tlatelolco Regime and the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, which is considered to be the cornerstone of the disarmament and nonproliferation regime. We underscore, once again, the importance of its prompt global application.”

Nuclear Weapon Convention, CTBT, fissile materials: “Likewise, and without prejudice to the reaffirmation of our aspiration to a Convention for the Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, we believe that the entry into force of the treaty for the total nuclear test ban and a treaty for the prohibition of the production of fissionable material during the present year, constitute decisive steps in the consolidation and deepening of the advances made in the area of disarmament. We must not stop, because to stop is to go backwards, and to go backwards is to expose humanity to the horrendous and inacceptable risk of nuclear holocaust.”

Nuclear weapon free zone: “Uruguay’s wish is that in 2012 a conference could be held in which all the states of the Middle East participate, with the goal of establishing a zone free of nuclear weapons and of all other weapons of mass destruction, through freely agreed arrangements between the states of the region, with the full support and commitment of those states that possess nuclear weapons.”

Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “Uruguay supports the United Nations Secretary General's five points initiative for a world free of nuclear weapons.”

Conventional weapons, Arms Trade Treaty: “On the subject of conventional weapons, Uruguay is a firm promoter of a legally binding agreement on arms trade, which establishes common international regulations for the import, export and transfer of this type of weapons, which are responsible for a great number of deaths every day, particularly in Latin America.”

Vanuatu
H.E. Mr. Edward Natapei, Prime Minister
27 September 2010

Small arms and light weapons: “I wish to inform the Assembly that the Pacific leaders again noted that transnational crime remains a threat to national and regional stability, in particular the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, and illicit drugs.”

Nuclear testing, nuclear weapons, non-proliferation, nuclear weapon free zone, peace, security: “While known as a region characterised by oceanic isolation, smallness and general vulnerability, the Pacific Region is only one of the few in the world to have experienced nuclear weapons testing. Advancing therefore the cause of nuclear non-proliferation, as well as the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty (also known as the Treaty of Rarotonga), remains critical and relevant to our signatory members States. The South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty reflects not only our region’s deep commitment to international peace and security, but also to collective international action to secure that state of peace and security.”

Nuclear weapon free zone, CTBT: “In welcoming the successful outcome of the 2010 Nuclear non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference, Forum Leaders also welcomed the announcement by the United States of its intention to ratify all Protocols to the Treaty of Rarotonga. Forum Leaders at their meeting last August encouraged all States to sign and ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban-Treaty (CTBT) as a practical step toward nuclear disarmament, and noted the practical value and potential of the CTBT verification system, including for earthquake and tsunami warning networks in the Pacific.”

Peace, security, multilateralism: “If we are to effectively guarantee human rights, and achieve peace and security, and social and economic justice for all, we need to be united in this endeavor, and our cooperation and multilateral joint efforts durable and effective.”

Multilateralism: “We have learnt that multilateralism offers some constructive innovations in diplomatic practice, but it may also complicate conflict resolution by accelerating tension between actors.”

Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)
H.E. Mr. Jorge Valero Briceño, Chairman of the Delegation
29 September 2010

No relevant references.

Yemen
H.E. Mr. Abubakr Al-Qirbi, Minister for Foreign Affairs
28 September 2010

Israel's nuclear programme: “Israel also must accede to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and enter into talks with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to free the region from weapons of mass destruction.”

Zambia
H.E. Mr. Kalombo Mwansa, Minister of Defense
27 September 2010

Nuclear weapons, disarmament, nuclear weapon free zone, non-proliferation: “My delegation welcomes the positive developments that have occurred in the past one year in the area of arms control and disarmament. The security council's convening of a summit to address disarmament issues; the Secretary General's launch of a five point nuclear disarmament proposal; the entry into force of treaties establishing nuclear weapon free zones in central Asia and Africa, and the convening of a summit in Washington to discuss nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation among others, must be commended. We hope that these efforts and the momentum generated will be sustained and lead to the resolution of all outstanding issues in the area of disarmament.”

Small arms and light weapons, arms trade treaty: “Zambia, however, continues to face difficulties in controlling the inflow of small arms and light weapons (SALW). The illicit trade in SALW threatens security and retards social and economic development in our country. Zambia, therefore, calls for the establishment of a strong and legally binding international instrument on the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). It is in this regard that we strongly the convening of the United Nations Conference in 2012 to establish legally binding common international standards for the import export and transfer of conventional arms with specific measures against defaulters.”

Zimbabwe
H.E. Mr. Robert Mugabe, President
24 September 2010

No relevant references.