UNGA Disarmament Index 2021: H-R

This is an index of all references made to issues of disarmament and arms control made during the 76th General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly from 21–27 September 2021.

A-G | H-R | S-Z

Haiti
Ariel Henry, Prime Minister
25 September 2021

No relevant references.

Holy See
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State
25 September 2021

Armed conflict: “In his Encyclical Letter Fratelli Tutti on fraternity and social friendship, Pope Francis surveyed the many challenges facing the international community, such as war and conflict, mistreatment and violence, hunger and poverty, inequality and marginalization, individualism and mistrust, extremism and polarization, attacks on human dignity, the COVID-19 pandemic and threats to the environment, among other ‘dark clouds.’”

Armed conflict, weapons of mass destruction: “Hope all too frequently is denied and remains elusive to so many women and men, boys and girls because of another man-made threat to our common existence, namely war, conflict and the possession and use of weapons of mass destruction. The scourge of war brings death and destruction, harms the environment, devastates communities and so often entraps regions and countries in a downward spiral.Sadly, we continue to witness the terrible impact of crises and conflicts across the globe.”

Nuclear weapons, biological weapons, chemical weapons: “The damage to our fellow human beings and our planet is a special cause of concern with regard to nuclear arms and biological and chemical weapons.”

Armed conflict: “The recent aggravated humanitarian situation in Afghanistan and the ongoing political tensions in Syria and Lebanon, as well as in other places, are a stark reminder of the impact that conflicts press upon peoples and nations.”

Ceasefire: “The Holy See calls upon States to heed the call of the Secretary-General and Pope Francis for a global ceasefire and a shared humanitarian responsibility.”

Nuclear weapons: “The threat of nuclear weapons, possessed under the guise of nuclear deterrence, creates an ethos of fear based on mutual annihilation, and poisons relationships between peoples, obstructs dialogue, and undermines hope. Humanitarian and security issues require us to end the nuclear arms race and to undertake effective measures toward nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation and prohibition. The entry into force last January of the Treaty for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) is a major step forward. It is the firm hope of the Holy See that this will also spur progress in the implementation of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), scheduled to hold its Review Conference next January.”

Honduras
Juan Orlando Hernandez
22 September 2021

No relevant references.

Hungary
Péter Szijjártó, Minister of Foreign Affairs
23 September 2021

Cyber peace and security: “And these two [parents working from home and children having digital education] have created a vulnerable and unexperienced group of users of digital space, and this kind of group is a perfect target for cybercrime. That’s why we urge to put together a strict international regulation, which can protect our children and our families from spreading extremist ideologies on the internet, of sexual propaganda and of cyberbullying.”

Iceland
Guðlaugur Þór Þórðarson, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2021

Armed conflict: “Regrettably, today’s conflicts, humanitarian and political crises are too often rooted in lack of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.”

Armed conflict, cyber peace and security: “The complexity of modern conflicts and crises continues to grow with the marriage of emerging factors, such as climate change, cyber threats and disinformation, and the old foes of authoritarianism and tyranny.”

Armed conflict, militarism: “Finding political solutions to the situations in Syria, Yemen, Ethiopia, and now Afghanistan is also essential, as military might alone can never deliver peace and stability.”

Cyber peace and security: “The Council needs to act with greater foresight based on a broader view of security, and we welcome its recent deliberations on cyber security, climate security and the pandemic.”

Armed conflict, arms race, nuclear weapons: “Prevention needs to be our highest priority, given human cost and long-term implications of conflict, instability, and tensions. Safeguarding the key agreements that brought us out of the wasteful arms race of the Cold War, not least the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, is particularly important.”

India
Narendra Modi, Prime Minister
25 September 2021

No relevant references.

Indonesia
Joko Widodo, President
22 September 2021

Armed conflict: “The world community looks towards the UN General Assembly to provide answers to major global concerns. When will the people be free from the pandemic? When will the economy recover and grow inclusively? How to sustain the planet for future generations? And when will the world be free from conflict, terrorism, and war?”

Armed conflict: “we must be stern in fighting intolerance, conflicts, terrorism, and war.”

Iran
Zuzana Čaputová, President
21 September 2021

Armed conflict: “What is seen in our region today proves that not only the hegemonist and the idea of hegemony, but also the project of imposing Westernized identity have failed miserably. The result of seeking hegemony has been blood-spilling and instability and, ultimately, defeat and escape. Today, the US does not get to exit Iraq and Afghanistan but is expelled. And, at the same time, it is the oppressed people, from Palestine and Syria to Yemen and Afghanistan, as well as the US taxpayers, who have to pay for this lack of rationality.”

Armed conflict: “Over the past decade, the US has been making the mistake of modifying its ‘way of war’ with the world instead of changing its ‘way of life’. An erroneous path cannot be brought to fruition by merely adopting a different method.”

Nuclear weapons: “Sanctions are the US’ new way of war with the nations of the world. Sanctions against the Iranian nation started not with my country’s nuclear program; …”

Nuclear energy: “In addition to peaceful nuclear and satellite technologies, Iran is the medical hub of the region and numerous Iranian physicians and scientists, such as Avicenna, shine in the history of humankind. Knowledge that is beneficial to humanity cannot be sanctioned. We ourselves have been able to produce fuel for the Tehran research reactor which makes radiopharmaceuticals for more than one million cancer patients in Iran. We have also made astonishing progress in the area of biotechnology and stem cells in spite of all sanctions. And today despite all sanctions targeting human rights, we have become one of the manufacturers of CoVID-19 vaccines.”

Armed conflict: Crises in human societies, such as violence, poverty, unemployment, moral and economic corruption, collapse of family foundations, regional wars, organized terrorism and environmental crises are all the result of inattention to the principles of rationality, justice and freedom.”

Militarism: “The military presence of the US in Syria and Iraq is the biggest hindrance to the establishment of democracy and will of nations. Freedom does not fit in the backpacks of soldiers coming from outside the region.”

Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA): “Today, the whole world including the Americans themselves have admitted that the project of countering the Iranian people, which manifested itself in the form of violating the JCPoA and was followed by the ‘maximum pressure’ and arbitrary withdrawal from an internationally recognized agreement, has totally failed. However, the policy of ‘maximum oppression’ is still on. We want nothing more than what is rightfully ours. We demand the implementation of international rules. All parties must stay true to the nuclear deal and the UN Resolution in practice. Fifteen reports released by the IAEA have attested to the adherence of Iran to its commitments. However, the US has not yet discharged its obligation, which is lifting sanctions. It has encroached upon the agreement, withdrawn from it and levied even more sanctions on my people.”

Nuclear weapons: “It is the strategic policy of the Islamic Republic of Iran to consider the production and stockpiling of atomic weapons as forbidden based on the religious decree by His Eminence, the Supreme Leader, and Nukes have no place in our defense doctrine and deterrence policy. The Islamic Republic considers the useful talks whose ultimate outcome is the lifting of all oppressive sanctions.”

Iraq
Barham Salih, President
23 September 2021

Chemical weapons, armed conflict, militarism: “Over the last 40 years alone, Iraq has suffered from war, embargos, tyranny, genocidal campaigns, mass graves, the use of chemical weapons, the draining of the marches and groups of terrorists over our cities. We have been able to overcome these tragedies and liberate our cities from the evil forces of Daesh, thus saving the world from crimes thanks to the courage of our army and police”.

Armed conflicts: “Iraq sits at the heart of the middle east region, a region that suffered and is still suffering from war and conflicts that are the result of the breakdown of security and political system for the last 40 years.”

Ireland
Micheál Martin, Taoiseach
24 September 2021

Armed conflict: “Our own experience of conflict on the island of Ireland has taught us that building peace is painstaking, long and often frustrating. We expected that our time on the Council would reflect that complexity; would require stamina, ingenuity, compromise and determination. And so it has proved. Every day for the last nine months, we have sought to use our voice, to defend our principles, and to make progress towards the peaceful resolution of some of the world’s most pressing conflicts. Progress has not always been possible. Too often, the Council has been divided. It is a lesson hard learned that when we, in this building, are divided, it is the most vulnerable who suffer the consequences. The promise of the Charter is to “save succeeding generations from the scourge of war”. Today, I call on all members of the Council to set aside political differences and to work to uphold that promise.

Armed conflict: “Syria presents an urgent example of where this is needed. This year we marked ten years of conflict in that country. For many, the conflict in Syria is emblematic as the failure of the United Nations and of the Security Council in particular. On too many occasions, in the face of immense suffering, the Council chose inaction. Often, in response, it has been the General Assembly that has stepped up, and stepped in. This body has taken bold action, critical to the resolution of this conflict.”

Armed conflict, ceasefire: “Since January, Ireland has consistently urged the Council to act in response to the deteriorating situation in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. We have been horrified by reports of gross human rights abuses and violations, including widespread and systematic sexual and gender-based violence. For 10 months, a humanitarian catastrophe has unfolded before our eyes. The threat of famine looms large. This is unconscionable. We are speaking out clearly here today, as we have done in the Council for months. We must stand firm and united in support of the Secretary-General’s call for a negotiated ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian access and restoration of basic services to all affected areas, and a political solution to the crisis.”

Nuclear weapons: “A hallmark of Irish foreign policy is our firm commitment to a world free of nuclear weapons. Next week at the Security Council, we will mark the 25th anniversary of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. We are committed to achieving a successful and substantive outcome to the Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference. We warmly welcome the entry-into-force of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.”

Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA): “As Security Council Facilitator for Resolution 2231 on the Iran nuclear deal we have engaged extensively to encourage a return to compliance by all parties. We welcome the commitment of the US Administration to return to the agreement. We urge Iran to seize this opportunity, to return swiftly to talks in Vienna, and to come back into full compliance with the agreement, including by cooperating fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency.”

Armed conflict: “The escalation of the Israeli/Palestinian conflict in May resulted in more lives lost, including the deaths of more than 70 children.”

Armed conflict: “The world has watched in horror at the violence and chaos in Afghanistan. Millions of Afghans require urgent support, including those recently displaced by conflict, violence and intimidation. Full, safe and unimpeded access to humanitarian organisations and all of their personnel, regardless of gender, must be facilitated. The most vulnerable – women, girls, boys, men, LGBTQI persons; and persons with disabilities – must be protected.”

Italy
Mario Draghi, President of the Council of Ministers
23 September 2021

Ceasefire: “The international community must work together with the Libyan institutions and the Libyan people to overcome the current stalemate. Despite this critical juncture, we must ensure that elections scheduled for the 24th of December can take place and the ceasefire is fully implemented.”

Israel
Naftali Bennett, Prime Minister, Minister for Community Affairs and Minister for National Digital Affairs
27 September 2021

Nuclear weapons: “Iran’s great goal is crystal clear to anybody who cares to open their eyes: Iran seeks to dominate the region — and seeks to do so under a nuclear umbrella.”

Armed drones: “If you think Iranian terror is confined to Israel– you're wrong. Just this year, Iran made operational a new deadly terror unit – swarms of killer UAVs armed with lethal weapons that can attack any place any time. They plan to blanket the skies of the Middle East with this lethal force. Iran has already used these deadly UAVs—called Shahed 136-- to attack Saudi Arabia, US targets in Iraq and civilian ships at sea, killing A Brit and a Romanian. Iran plans to arm its proxies in Yemen, Iraq, Syria and Lebanon with hundreds and then thousands of these deadly drones. Experience tells us that what starts in the Middle East, doesn't stop there.”

Nuclear weapons: “Over the past few years, Iran has made a major leap forward, in its nuclear R&D, in its production-capacity, and in its enrichment. Iran's nuclear weapon program is at a critical point. All red lines have been crossed. Inspections — ignored. All wishful-thinking — proven false. Iran is violating the IAEAs safeguard agreements — and it's getting away with it. They harass inspectors and sabotage their investigations — and they’re getting away with it. They enrich Uranium to the level of 60% which is one step short of weapons-grade material — and they’re getting away with it. Evidence which clearly proves Iran's intentions for nuclear weapons in secret sites in Toorkooz-abad, Teheran & Marivan — is ignored. Iran’s nuclear program has hit a watershed moment; and so has our tolerance. Words do not stop centrifuges from spinning. There are those in the world who seem to view Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons as an inevitable reality, or they've just become tired of hearing about it. Israel doesn't have that privilege. We will not tire. We will not allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon.”

Jamaica
Andrew Holness, Prime Minister
24 September 2021

Small arms and light weapons: “The illicit proliferation of small arms and light weapons remains a daily challenge to citizen security and a grave concern to Jamaica. The widespread availability of these arms and their ammunition is a key enabler of conflict and endemic crime, and represents a significant danger to our internal security, fostering criminal activities which destabilize the social order. We will work with all our partners to enhance the capacity of member states to address issues related to arms control and disarmament, by preventing the diversion of conventional arms to the illicit market. This matter remains a priority for Jamaica, as we seek the assistance of our bilateral, regional and international partners in addressing the issue.”

Japan
Suga Yoshihide, Prime Minister
24 September 2021

Cyber peace and security: “As we maximize the use of the potential of digital space, new technologies must not be used to undermine our universal values. Japan will contribute constructively to the discussions at the UN and other multilateral forums and also provide capacity-building support to ASEAN and other countries in order to work towards the realization of a free, fair, and secure cyber-space.”

Arms control, disarmament: “To realize a more peaceful and secure world, it is crucial for all countries to make sincere efforts in a transparent manner in international arrangements on arms control and disarmament.”

Nuclear weapons: “As the only country that has experienced the devastation of atomic bombings, Japan will endeavor to bridge the gaps among countries with different positions and contribute to international efforts towards the realization of a world free from nuclear weapons. Regarding the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, we aim to achieve a meaningful outcome at the Review Conference to be held next year.”

Arms control, disarmament, conventional weapons: “We will also continue to work on the control and disarmament of conventional weapons, or ‘Disarmament that Saves Lives’.”

Nuclear weapons, missiles, Korean Peninsula: “The recent launch of ballistic missiles by North Korea is a clear violation of Security Council resolutions and we condemn this action. The recent nuclear and missile activities by North Korea pose a threat to the peace and security of Japan, the region and the international community. I strongly hope that North Korea will engage in diplomatic efforts and the dialogues between the United States and North Korea on denuclearization will progress.”

Nuclear weapons, missiles, Korean Peninsula: “Japan will continue to seek to normalize its relationship with North Korea, in accordance with the Japan-DPRK Pyongyang Declaration, through comprehensively resolving the outstanding issues of concern such as the abductions, nuclear and missile issues, as well as settling the unfortunate past. Establishing a constructive relationship between Japan and North Korea will not only serve the interests of both sides but also contribute to regional peace and stability.”

Jordan
Abdullah II, King
22 September 2021

No relevant references.

Kazakhstan
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President
22 September 2021

Disarmament, nuclear weapons: “I turn to several other important UN issues, including the need to revitalize disarmament. Last month, on 29 August, we marked the 30th anniversary of the decision to close the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site and relinquish the fourth largest nuclear arsenal in the world. Kazakhstan again urges the nuclear-weapon States to commit themselves to the complete elimination of nuclear weapons by 2045, the Centennial of the United Nations.”

Biological safety: “Similarly, there is more work to be done against existential biological threats. I proposed last year an International Agency for Biological Safety. This is a bold and ambitious idea, but we believe it is timely. Open and transparent dialogue with all stakeholders is ongoing.”

Kenya
Uhuru Kenyatta, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces
22 September 2021

Small arms and light weapons: “The unequal trade and investment patterns, the outflows of illicit finance and inflows of illicit small arms and light weapons, the extraction versus production mentality, are all escalating global inequality, fragility, conflict and violence.”

“In October 2021, Kenya will assume the Presidency of the Security Council. During that period, I will chair several signature-events. These include; … Second, how illicit small arms and light weapons impact peacekeeping operations.”

Kiribati
Te Beretitenti Taneti Maamau, President
23 September 2021

No relevant references.

Kuwait
Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al Hamad Al Sabah, Prime Minister
24 September 2021

Armed conflict: “The Palestinian Question still occupies the central and pivotal position in our Arab and Muslim worlds. Tension and instability will remain prevalent in our region, unless the Palestinian people obtain all their legitimate political rights, and Israel, the occupying authority, halts its practices and violations of international humanitarian law, represented in the building of settlements, confiscation of land, closure of areas, the continued imposition of the blockade on Gaza, and its desecration of the sanctity of holy places.”

Armed conflict, militarism: “The continuation of the Syrian crisis, which has entered its 11th year, with all the humanitarian pain it bears for the Syrian citizen inside and outside the country, has remained as witness to the fact, that absence of consensus and international will, from one side, and external interventions from another side, were the main reasons for prolonging this bloody conflict. From here we renew our firm conviction, that there is no military solution to it, and emphasize the importance of working to reach a political settlement, according to the relevant Security Council resolutions, especially resolution 2254, in a way that achieves and meets the aspirations and hopes of the brotherly Syrian people.”

Armed conflict: “The continuing crisis in brotherly Yemen, and the growing and dangerous threats it poses to regional peace and stability, has been linked to the observed reality of how to deal with relevant Security Council resolutions and outputs. From here, we renew our firm position that the only solution for this crisis, is the political solution based on the three agreed upon terms of reference, these are; the GCC Initiative and its Implementation Mechanism, the outputs of the National Dialogue Conference, and the resolutions of the Security Council, especially resolution 2216.”

Armed conflict: “In light of what a number of countries in our region are witnessing from the growth of this destructive danger in Yemen, Libya, Syria, Somalia, and Iraq, the international community has watched with great interest, the delicate developments Afghanistan witnessed lately. In this regard, we call upon the Taliban movement and all parties, for the need to exercise utmost self-restraint, in order to prevent bloodshed, provide full protection to civilians, adhere to international obligations and laws, and to preserve the security and stability of the country, as well as the gains of the friendly Afghani people.”

Nuclear weapons, disarmament: “Among the sticking issues of regional character, the erosion of the nuclear disarmament system has constituted a challenge of existential nature to the security and stability of the region. In this regard, we look forward to concerted international and regional efforts for the success of the objectives of the Conference concerned with the establishment of a nuclear-free zone and other weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East, which the State of Kuwait will be presiding its second session in the coming month of November, at the United Nations headquarters in New York.”

Kyrgyzstan
Sadyr Japarov, President
21 September 2021

Arms trade, cyber peace and security: “At the same time, we call for stepping up international efforts not only to combat terrorism and extremism, but also against transnational organized crime in the sphere of trafficking in drugs and weapons, human trafficking, laundering of criminal proceeds, and in cyberspace.”

Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Phankham Viphavanh, Prime Minister
25 September 2021

Armed conflict: “The prolonged Israeli-Palestinian conflict over many decades has resulted in great loss of lives and properties for the Palestinian and Israeli, of which it should have been solved by peaceful means. The Lao PDR once again calls for the relevant parties to resume dialogues and mutual trust building for solving the issue aimed at accomplishing the establishment of two sovereign states of Palestine and Israel, peacefully coexisting under the relevant UN resolutions.”

Latvia
Egils Levits, President
21 September 2021

Cyber peace and security, artificial Intelligence: “At the same time, we must bear in mind that digital transformation and artificial intelligence poses new risks. Also, security threats in cyberspace are increasing. Therefore, in parallel with technological developments, we must work actively to define new legal principles. On the one hand these principles should help us make the best use of opportunities and, on the other, to avoid risks and damage to human rights and freedoms. In recent years we see innovations which, through global social platforms and increasing use of artificial intelligence, make it possible to influence and manipulate human thoughts and actions more effectively. Thus, human autonomy, the free will of the personality is endangered. The main challenge for the democratic world in the coming decades will be whether artificial intelligence or humans control decisions.”

Lebanon
General Michel Aoun, President
24 September 2021

Armed conflict: “The wars of the region around us have contributed to the exacerbation of our crises, especially the Syrian war which have weighed heavily on us, notably through the imposed siege that has deprived Lebanon of its vital extension, or the infiltration of terrorism into our territories, or the large numbers of Syrian displaced who streamed into Lebanon, exceeding today 1.5 million.”

Lesotho
Moeketsi Majoro, Prime Minister
23 September 2021

Armed conflict: “The Kingdom of Lesotho considers it the responsibility of the international community, with the United Nations playing the central role, to put in place effective measures aimed at preventing genocide, ethnic cleansing and the atrocities perpetrated on women and children caught up in armed conflict.”

Liberia
George Manneh Weah, President
23 September 2021

Armed conflict: “After the brutal civil war that ravished our country and divided our people for more than 15 years, and which finally ended just over two decades ago, it is important to agree on a process that would bring closure to the wounds of the victims, and thereby guarantee the sustenance of peace, stability, justice, and national reconciliation.”

Libya
Mohamed al-Menfi, President of the Presidential Council of the State of Libya
23 September 2021

Ceasefire: “Despite the achievements made in holding the ceasefire, by disabling any attempt to undermine and resolve any disagreement among parties, and despite working with a joint military committee to open the road … the issue of moving the foreign forces out of the country remain.” [unofficial translation]

Liechtenstein
Dominique Hasler, Minister for Foreign Affairs
25 September 2021

No relevant references.

Lithuania
Gitanas Nausėda, President
21 September 2021

Militarism: “Various forms of pressure and hybrid attacks are closely related to the deteriorating security situation in many parts of the world. We have seen authoritarian states continuing their military buildups and intensifying violent crackdowns on political opposition, free media, and civil society. These regimes demonstrated many times their willingness to endanger our peace, security, and prosperity.”

Nuclear energy: “Belarus has recently generated yet another outrage by starting the commercial exploitation of an unsafe nuclear power plant close to the Lithuanian border. By ignoring numerous worrying incidents and failing to comply with basic international safety standards, the Belarusian regime has once again shown a complete lack of a sense of responsibility.

“I believe that it would be a colossal mistake to treat such violators on the same footing as climate friendly producers who respect environmental and nuclear safety rules. Solving the issue of the Belarusian nuclear power plant is crucially important for our environment – and a matter of safety for all the people of Europe.”

Armed conflict: “For the seventh year we are witnessing the continuing military aggression against Ukraine, as well as the illegal annexation and occupation of Crimea. These actions violate international law, the Charter of the United Nations, as well as the provisions of the Helsinki Final Act. They should be condemned universally.”

Arms control: “The Open Skies Treaty, the Vienna Document, the Conventional Armed Forces in Europe Treaty, and many other agreements are crucial for building confidence in international security. The principles of sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity should prevail in the face of new challenges.”

Luxembourg
Xavier Bettel, Prime Minister
24 September 2021

No relevant references.

Madagascar
Andry Nirina Rajoelina, President
22 September 2021

Militarism: “Madagascar has neither the power, nor the weapons, and even less the pretension to declare war. We just have faith in the legitimacy of our aspirations and in our right to decide the fate of our territory.”

Malawi
Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President
22 September 2021

Armed conflict: "We must choose for our children a future of good governance delivered through strong democratic 5 institutions that safeguard human rights, uphold the rule of law, and maintain world peace; or a future of corrupt and oppressive governments propped up by proxy wars between developed nations and enabled by a weak and undemocratic United Nations that serves the interests of its Security Council at the expense of its member states’ development and inclusion."

Malaysia
Ismail Sabri Yaakob, Prime Minister
25 September 2021

Nuclear weapons: “The development and deployment of nuclear weapons continues to be a threat to all mankind. Given the global health crisis, we find it disheartening that billions of dollars are being spent to maintain and modernise nuclear weapons, rather than on saving lives and livelihoods.

“Malaysia supports the total elimination of nuclear weapons and the assurance that they will never be produced again. This is the only guarantee against the catastrophic consequences arising from their use. Towards this end, Malaysia welcomes the coming into force of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) earlier this year.

“Malaysia reaffirms its commitment to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and as Chair of Main Committee One (1) on Nuclear Disarmament for the 10th NPT Review Conference, we will strive towards bringing State Parties together and do our best to steer deliberations towards a fruitful outcome.”

Ceasefire: “Malaysia also reaffirms its commitment towards global peace, security and prosperity by continuing to lead on the issuance of a Joint Communique on global ceasefire in June this year. We strongly believe that the UN membership must speak with one voice on the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities in all corners of the world. This would allow governments and all stakeholders to focus their attention on combating humankind’s deadliest enemy.

“Nevertheless, Mr. President, it is unfortunate that we are far from realizing this global ceasefire. Many places are still experiencing instability. The situation in Myanmar remains of grave concern.”

Armed conflict: “On the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT), Malaysia is appalled by the deaths of many Palestinian civilians, including women and children, following the brutal attacks by Israel in May this year. We strongly condemn repeated violations and aggression by Israeli forces and settlers against Palestinian worshipers in Al-Aqsa Mosque. The targeted aggression against worshippers is indeed contemptuous to all Muslims, or for any peace-loving religion.

“In fact, let us be truly frank about what is happening in the OPT. The systematic oppression of Palestinians over many years through discriminatory policies; denial of basic civil rights imposition of harsh conditions; large scale land confiscation; and, inhumane acts committed against them tantamount to the crime of apartheid. Yes, Mr. President, apartheid still exists in this world and most of us are just turning a blind eye to this. 36. Malaysia stresses again that Israel must be held responsible and accountable for all its wrongdoings including its flagrant violations of international law. 37. We welcome the establishment of an international commission of inquiry by the Human Rights Council to investigate violations of international human rights law during the 11-day crisis.

“Malaysia continues to call for the deployment of a temporary international presence in the city of Al-Quds, to monitor the cessation of hostilities in the OPT. The international community must spare no effort to ensure the safety, protection, dignity and well-being of the Palestinian civilian population.”

Maldives
Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, President
21 September 2021

No relevant references.

Mali
Choguel Kokalla Maiga, Prime Minister
25 September 2021

Armed conflict: “From March 2013 to this 25 September 2021, when I am addressing you from this august platform, the situation in my country has hardly improved, despite international support and the presence on our soil of a UN peace operation, MINUSMA, and international forces: the French Operation Barkane, the European TAKUBA force and the G5 Sahel joint force.”

“The situation continues to deteriorate, to the point where large parts of the national territory are beyond the control of the government. My fellow citizens are living under the sway of armed terrorist groups in the denial of their most basic rights. Their access to basic services remains hypothetical due to the weak presence of state services, as a result of the growing insecurity.”

Militarism: “At the top of the State and within the Malian population, there is a desire for peace and a thirst for security that echoes the demand for efficiency of the political and military instruments and mechanisms put in place, and which paradoxically make Mali an over-militarised country but very vulnerable to terrorism, which has become a factor in the disintegration of our societies and the destabilisation of the foundations of the State.”

Disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration: “Concerning the defence and security issues of the Agreement, an accelerated DDR programme (Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration) has been put in place, with the integration of 3,000 ex-combatants from the signatory parties and inclusiveness, of which 1,840 have already been integrated. The Government has also expressed its willingness to integrate the remaining 1,160 by 21 August 2021 at the latest, were it not for the slowness of the Coordinations of the Azawad Movements in providing the list of their representatives.”

Malta
Robert Abela, Prime Minister
24 September 2021

Cyber peace and security: “As a founding member of the Alliance of Small Island Developing States, Malta’s goal is to become a leader in Small Island State Governance, standing ready to share our plans on decarbonisation and also digitalisation. Small Island States face challenges regarding their critical infrastructure, but in parallel, can also demonstrate how effective the community-based approach is. As our society will go through a digital transition in parallel with the climate one, as a country we also advocate the need to close the digital gap across nations to ensure a level playing field. Although Malta enjoys a positive and professional relationship as a ‘Digital Island’, we aim to further enhance our potential in the field and fast track our digital transformation. Our aim is to implement modernised and secure digital services that are accessible to all. These efforts will circumvent any of the disruptions caused by COVID-19 notably in the economy, education, health and public administration. Digitalisation will benefit and empower humanity if it is accessible to all our peoples, even those in the most remote parts of the world.”

Armed conflict: “As prospective elected members of the Security Council, Malta believes that refocusing and revitalising our efforts at addressing and mitigating tensions is paramount. More must be done to assist the main actors on the ground and to address the root causes of conflict. Such goals can be achieved by providing basic needs, which instability and conflict has taken away, whether it is basic education, literacy or food security.”

Ceasefire, arms embargo, armed conflict, mercenaries: “The will of the Libyan people must be respected, and the October 2020 ceasefire agreement fully implemented, while the work of the Independent Fact-Finding Mission on Libya set up last year should continue to be supported and reinforced. Mercenaries, foreign fighters and forces must withdraw from Libya, and the arms embargo must be respected.”

Disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration: “In the run-up to Libya’s upcoming national elections, this process should continue to be strengthened with the adoption of the necessary social and economic reforms combined with an underlying national reconciliation process. All of this should translate to, amongst others, the unification of state institutions, the commencing of security sector reform, as well as disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration.”

Ceasefire: “Actions that promote peace and stability in the [Middle East] should continue to be supported, including preparations to hold elections in Palestine. The conclusion of a ceasefire earlier this year was a step in the right direction. We urge both sides to take concrete steps to consolidate the fragile peace, and to refrain from taking any action which may jeopardise any positive trends.”

Armed conflict, attacks in populated areas: “Regarding Syria, the situation on the ground remains unstable. Not only have ten years passed since the conflict began, but the struggles that families and children are facing have become even more precarious. The persisting violence in Syria, particularly in view of ongoing reports of sexual and gender-based violence, attacks on children, hospitals, schools, and other vital civilian infrastructure including potable water production plants is of grave concern. We welcome the unanimous adoption of UNSCR 2585 extending the use of the humanitarian aid corridor at Bab al-Hawa. We urge all parties to refrain from further violence and take any and all appropriate actions leading to a resolution of this humanitarian and political crisis. The International Community must redouble its efforts to bring peace to Syria. We cannot remain idle.”

Armed conflict: “Peace and security are fundamental if we have any ambition to protect international humanitarian principles and minimise the impact of conflict on innocent civilians, including those who are the most vulnerable. Too many people live in countries where their access to water, food, education, and other essential needs is not met or is denied. As potential members of the Security Council, we will commit to addressing the root causes of conflict and to promote recognition of the crucial role of humanitarian space.”

Children in armed conflict: “Conflicts affect the lives of many people, and on a yearly basis we fail tens of thousands of children. We fail to protect them from violence, from cruelty, from harm, and from realising their full potential. We fail to protect their right of being children. Every year, children are forced into armed movements, abducted, abused, and forced to take part into conflicts that they have not created. The new worrying trends together with the multifaceted impacts on children exacerbated by the pandemic, are calling us to redouble our efforts to tackle this “plague” together. The protection of children must be central in our policy and decision-making processes. This goal is attainable, but we must act with urgency. UN peacekeeping operations have a key role to play in protecting children in armed conflict, as well as others within the UN system, including UNICEF. We strongly encourage the Council and Member States to support the full implementation of strong child protection mandates, including through the speedy deployment of senior child protection advisors and teams, and by prioritising the protection of children in peacekeeping transitions. Should Malta be entrusted to serve on the Security Council in 2023-2024, Children and Armed Conflict will be a priority during our tenure. We firmly believe that this issue, which greatly impacts our societies, should be mainstreamed across the work of the Security Council.”

Marshall Islands
David Kabua, President
22 September 2021

Militarism, armed conflict: “lf we cannot remember the mistakes which led to the last century's open global military conflicts, then my fear is that we are doomed to repeat them.”

Militarism: “My own Pacific islands region faces an emerging security threat in the form of geopolitical competition by the world's largest powers - are we again to be caught in the middle of a tug-of-war?”

Nuclear weapons: “The Republic of the Marshall lslands has our legacy roots as a strategic UN Trusteeship, where - despite our warnings at the time - two Trusteeship Council resolutions remain the only instance in history where any UN organ ever specifically authorized nuclear detonations. This was part of a wider nuclear weapons testing program of 67 atmospheric tests conducted by the United States as administering authority, between 1946 and 1958 - delivering the equivalent of 1 .6 Hiroshima-sized shots every day, for 12 years. The legacy of these tests remains a very contemporary threat - in our waters, our lands and our bodies. We have recently formed a National Nuclear Commission to coordinate effective responses, and we continue to view these impacts through a human rights lens. Despite our commitment, we simply lack the capacity to fully address our local needs. We tirelessly underscore that no people or nation should ever have to bear a burden such as ours, and that no effort should be spared to move towards a world free of nuclear weapons and nuclear risk, through any and all effective pathways.”

Mauritania
Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2021

No relevant references.

Mauritius
Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Prime Minister
24 September 2021

Cyber peace and security: “One sector which has thrived during the pandemic relates to infodemics and criminal activities in cyberspace. This has to be addressed globally. We support the elaboration of an international Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communications Technologies for Criminal Purposes.”

Militarism, military bases: “I would like to reiterate the commitment of Mauritius to ensuring the continued operation of the defence facility in Diego Garcia. Mauritius considers the facility vital to the maintenance of international peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region, and to efforts to combat terrorism, piracy, and the illicit trafficking of drugs and persons. In this regard, Mauritius, as sovereign over the Chagos Archipelago, which includes Diego Garcia, stands ready to enter into a long-term arrangement with the United States in respect of Diego Garcia.”

Mexico
Marcelo Ebrard, Chanceler
23 September 2021

Small arms and light weapons, arms trade: “We will continue to draw the international community's attention to the irresponsible arms trade and trafficking, as well as the link to the increase in violence, homicides and the commission of high-impact crimes that affect the security of citizens, limit their possibilities for development and undermine the social fabric. We hope that the Council can take measures to ensure stricter control of small arms and light weapons, as these are the fuel that fuels the world's conflicts.”

Micronesia
David Panuelo, President and Head of Government
23 September 2021

Cyber peace and security: “Micronesia has been taking many steps to strengthen the rule of law in our country. We are seeking to pass legislation on cybercrimes….”

Moldova
Maia Sandu, President
22 September 2021

Ammunition: “In the spirit of Moldova’s Constitutional neutrality and international law, I would also like to reiterate that our position on the complete and unconditional withdrawal of Russian forces remains unchanged. This includes the removal or destruction of ammunitions from the Cobasna stockpiles which pose a security and environmental threat to the region as a whole. We count on the support of the international community in this endeavor.”

Monaco
Prince Albert II, Sovereign Prince
23 September 2021

Cyber peace and security: “But cyberspace calls for everyone's vigilance. With the health crisis, cyber attacks against civilian infrastructure have increased, undermining the fundamental principles of international humanitarian law.”

Mongolia
Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, President
22 September 2021

Nuclear weapons: “My country has initiated and tabled more than 90 UN General Assembly resolutions on nearly 20 agenda items, including Disarmament Week, the Declaration on the Right to Peace, nuclear-weapon-free status, economic development, environmental protection, cooperatives, situation of women in rural areas, literacy and education for democracy. Amongst them, Mongolia declared its territory as a nuclear-weapon-free in 1992 and has been working actively in this direction ever since.”

Armed conflict: “Therefore, in today's world, this horrendous phenomenon called war must be completely eliminated from the future of mankind and human propriety, and the role and pertinence of resolving any conflicts and misunderstandings only through peaceful means and dialogue as well as promoting preventive diplomacy are on the rise.”

Montenegro
Milo Đukanović, President
22 September 2021

Disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control: “Due to the obvious deterioration of the overall international security atmosphere, modernization of armed systems, as well as due to the collapse of some of the most important strategic instruments in this field, international architecture for disarmament, non-proliferation and control of arms are under a significant pressure. That is something that Montenegro, as a responsible UN and NATO member, wants to draw your attention to. Support to implementation and strengthening and to further development of multilateral agreements in the field of disarmament, non-proliferation and control of arms must be imperatives for all of us.”

Morocco
Nasser Bourita, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2021

Disarmament, arms race, nuclear weapons: “In terms of disarmament, Morocco was elected to chair the First Committee during the 76th session of the General Assembly. This is the first time that Morocco chairs this important committee on disarmament and international security. Choosing Morocco to carry out this responsibility on behalf of Africa represents a recognition by the United Nations of our active, credible, and committed role in the international efforts to prevent a nuclear and conventional arms race. It is also a recognition of our work to promote international and regional peace, security, and stability.”

Mozambique
Verónica Nataniel Macamo Dlhovo, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2021

Arms trade and proliferation: “The prevalence of terrorism and violent extremism, combined with the proliferation and trade of arms constitute a serious threat to peace and security at national, regional and global levels.”

Disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration: “We would like also to thank the support rendered by the international community to the Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration of the former guerrilla elements of RENAMO, in the framework of the implementation of the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation.”

Arms trade, nuclear weapons, conventional weapons: “Our country reaffirms its commitment towards the implementation of international legal instruments aimed at strengthening peace and security, particularly the Arms Trade Treaty, the Nuclear Weapons Non-Proliferation Treaty and the Conventional Arms Convention.”

Namibia
Hage Geingob, President
23 September 2021

Militarism: “Global conflict in the form of the Cold War resulted in Africa’s Second Wave leaders being caught up in the malaise of military coups and One-Party States.”

Armed conflict: “Indeed, through unity, we will revitalize the United Nations, transforming it into a bastion of global democracy that will save the world from the scourge of war and reaffirm faith in the fundamental human rights, dignity and worth of each and every human being on this planet.”

Nauru
Lionel Rouwen Aingimea, President
23 September 2021

Armed conflict: “Recognizing that we are all bound together, we must all work to change course and deliver on the promise of multilateralism: an effective and robust United Nations that is fit for purpose, capable of tackling the challenges of today and the future, to build a safer, sustainable world for generations to come. A world that realizes the promise of peace, human rights and sustainable development for all and shifts away from the current trend of increasing violent conflict around the world.”

Nepal
Dr. Narayan Khadka, Minister for Foreign Affairs
27 September 2021

Armed conflict: “We call for an immediate end to the hardships and sufferings of the common people in Libya, Syria, and Yemen. In the Middle East, we reiterate our long-standing position and want to see peace and security with a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine living side by side within secure and recognized international borders.”

Arms race, outer space, nuclear weapons, military spending: “It is worrisome to see new signs of arms race through modernization of nuclear arms, and weaponization of outer space among big powers. We call upon them to divert precious resources from military spending to addressing the covid-19 pandemic and lifting the most vulnerable people out of poverty.”

Weapons of mass destruction, disarmament, non-proliferation: “The mechanisms of disarmament as well as the measures of non-proliferation and confidence building have been stalled. Nepal calls for general and complete disarmament of all weapons of mass destruction in a time-bound and verifiable manner.”

Netherlands
Mark Rutte, Prime Minister
24 September 2021

No relevant references.

New Zealand
Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister and Minister for National Security and Intelligence, Child Poverty Reduction, and Ministerial Services
24 September 2021

Armed conflict: “We know that poverty and inequality drive conflict and instability, and we are also seeing this, in heightened civil unrest and conflict. Humanitarian crises have worsened. We are seeing this in Afghanistan and there are many more. As an international community we must rise to the challenge of meeting the growing humanitarian need. But we also have to intensify our efforts to prevent conflict and build peace. New Zealand looks forward to playing a part in this effort as we join the Peacebuilding Commission in 2022.”

Armed conflict, weapons, nuclear weapons: “And where peace fails, we must all do our part to strengthen and improve respect for the laws of armed conflict, and to enhance the protection of civilians. Preventing both the use of illegal weapons, and the illegal use of legal weapons, is essential, as is ensuring there is no impunity for any such use. This work is a shared responsibility, and one which we pursue alongside our tireless efforts to rid the world of nuclear weapons and the spectre of a conflict that no one can recover from.”

Nicaragua
Denis Moncada Colindres, Minister of Foreign Affairs
27 September 2021

Disarmament, nuclear weapons: “Because of its peaceful vocation, Nicaragua also advocates general and complete disarmament, it is in favour of the total elimination of nuclear weapons for the benefit of mankind.”

Weapons of mass destruction: “It is unacceptable that in the midst of this pandemic, weapons of mass destruction continue to be modernised, endangering the whole of humanity. It is part of the soulless creation of Savage Capitalism, an insatiable attitude of accumulation at the expense of international peace, security and human life.”

Nuclear weapons: “The hope of the inhabitants of the planet is that nuclear weapons, which are a threat to the whole of humanity, including the very peoples of the countries that manufacture and possess them, will disappear.

“Nicaragua is a party to the Treaty of Tlatelolco, where we committed ourselves many years ago not to allow any country in Latin America and the Caribbean to develop nuclear weapons.

“We welcome the entry into force of the historic Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, which prohibits for the first time the existence, use and threat of use of nuclear weapons, which Nicaragua has ratified.”

Militarism, armed conflict: “In relation to Afghanistan, we insist that Peace prevails. The United States and European countries must act rationally and responsibly, calling on them to renounce and desist from their culture and practices of war.”

Militarism: “The member countries of the UN must continue to make efforts so that the Western powers stop and desist from warmongering policies and actions, from the use or threat of the use of force, since they provoke more instability and insecurity at the global level.”

Armed conflict: “We reiterate our fraternal Solidarity with the Government and People of Syria in the defence of their Sovereignty and territorial integrity and in their struggle against foreign aggression and International Terrorism. All aggression against the People and Government of Syria must be stopped.”

Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA): “Our people and government support the end of all sanctions on the sister Republic of Iran and support the full implementation of the Joint Plan of Action (JCPOA) of 14 July 2015. We underline that this agreement demonstrates that dialogue and diplomacy are the most appropriate means for peaceful resolution, as an essential part of the functioning of multilateralism.”

Militarism: “We condemn the US hegemonic political aggressions against the peaceful settlement of conflicts, which constitute political, economic, commercial and military threats and actions against the Russian Federation, the People's Republic of China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. We must uphold the principle of dialogue and negotiation and the non-use of force and threat as basic principles of the UN Charter.”

Niger
Hassoumi Massoudou, Minister of State and Foreign Affairs
27 September 2021

Armed conflict and climate change: “It is our conviction that the fragility linked to climate change is an aggravating factor in conflicts and humanitarian crises.”

Armed conflict, arms proliferation: “Indeed, since the events of 2011 in Libya, which have led to the proliferation of weapons in the Sahel region, our countries have been facing attacks by terrorist hordes both in the Lake Chad Basin in the East and in the so-called "Three Border Zone" in the West.”

Militarism: “We remain convinced that terrorism and organized crime are only the consequences of multiple challenges that must be overcome, in particular that of poverty and inequality. In the long run, it is not only military actions that will that will allow us to definitively defeat terrorism, but also our ability to implement development programs to meet the basic needs of our populations. The redeployment of the administration of public services of the State in the affected areas is an essential extension of the military action.”

Armed conflict, attacks on education: “In fact, in conflict zones, women and children are the first victims of terrorist groups that deliberately target civilian populations and schools, as is the case in the Central Sahel region, where villages are frequently attacked and thousands of children are deprived of education as a result of these attacks.”

Armed conflict: “As a member of the Security Council since January 2020, my country has to make its contribution to the building of a peaceful world. Whether it be African issues, which are numerous on the agenda of the Council, including the situation in the Sahel, the situations in the Middle East and Palestine, Syria, Libya, Burma and Afghanistan, our priority has always been to take into account the urgent needs of civilian populations, in particular women and children, the first victims of conflicts and humanitarian disasters which have unfortunately become recurrent.”

Armed conflict, cyber peace and security: “Just as we did in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, we must resolutely tackle the challenges of: climate change, that other devastating pandemic; the fight against terrorism and cybercrime; and so many other problems specific to our century.”

Nigeria
Muhammadu Buhari, President
24 September 2021

Small arms and light weapons, arms trade: “Nigeria remains deeply concerned over the illicit trade, transfer, and circulation of small arms and light weapons. Their excessive accumulation and uncontrolled spread in many regions of the world are having devastating humanitarian and socio-economic consequences, especially on the continent of Africa. It is on this note that my delegation calls for the world wide application of the Arms Trade Treaty to codify accountability in conventional arms trade, which is critical to the security of nations. This is in recognition of the need for a broadbased global partnership in the on-going battle against trans-border crimes, including terrorism and piracy.”

Armed conflict: “We must deal not only with the symptoms of conflict but also the immediate causes that fuel conflicts in the first place. These include poor and undemocratic governance, human rights abuses, poverty, ignorance, injustice and inequalities.”

Nuclear weapons: “Nigeria is fully committed to nuclear non-proliferation and has always supported the view that it should involve all States. Disarmament Conventions deserve the support of all states, small, large, nuclear or non-nuclear. Nuclear weapons remain the ultimate agents of mass destruction, and their total elimination should be the final objective of all disarmament processes within the broad spectrum of goals being pursued by the United Nations. In this regard, Nigeria would participate actively in the forthcoming Review Conference of the Nuclear Prohibition Treaty and also the First Meeting of States Parties to the landmark Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, scheduled to take place within the first quarter of 2022. Nigeria regards these upcoming events as important steps towards the realisation of a world free of nuclear weapons. We are, therefore, supportive of any diplomatic efforts in this direction. We hope that the upcoming NPT review conference would lead to a successful outcome that would facilitate the denuclearisation of the world. We would do our part to ensure such an outcome.”

North Macedonia
Stevo Pendarovski, President
23 September 2021

Armed conflict: “The reality today is that our world is far from being a safe place to live in. Conflicts around the world, fresh or frozen, terrorism, hybrid threats continue to intimidate our peace and way of life. They continue to threaten human rights and freedoms, provoking humanitarian catastrophes and waves of refugees.”

Norway
Erna Solberg, Prime Minister
22 September 2021

Nuclear weapons: “We need to protect and promote the framework for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation – first and foremost, the Non-Proliferation Treaty.”

“Great power rivalry can threaten strategic stability. Dialogue and cooperation are essential.

The extension of the New START Treaty is a welcome step forward.”

Weapons of mass destruction: “The international norm against the use of weapons of mass destruction must be upheld.”

Chemical weapons: “The increased threat from chemical weapons must be countered.”

Oman
Sayyid Badr Albusaidi, Foreign Ministry
27 September 2021

Ceasefire: “With respect to the Yemeni crisis, my country is continuing its tireless endeavours, and working with the brotherly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, both the United Nation’s and American’s envoys for Yemen, and the concerned Yemeni parties with the aim of ending the war through a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire on all sides, and fully resuming humanitarian efforts, in order to provide for the needs of the brothers in Yemen.”

Nuclear weapons, Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA): “We would also like to express our hope that the Vienna talks on the Iranian nuclear program will lead to the desired consensus among all parties, because we firmly believe that this will be in the interest of the Region and the world.”

Nuclear weapons, weapons of mass destruction: “We call upon all Member States to fulfil their commitments undertaken through treaties and agreements related to disarmament, in particular, those agreements and treaties relating to nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction, in order to ensure global stability.”

Pakistan
Imran Khan, Prime Minister
24 September 2021

Ceasefire: “Pakistan desires peace with India, as with all its neighbours. But sustainable peace in South Asia is contingent upon resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions, and the wishes of the Kashmiri people. Last February, we reaffirmed the 2003 ceasefire understanding along the Line of Control. The hope was that it would lead to a rethink of the strategy in New Delhi. Sadly, the BJP government has intensified repression in Kashmir and continues to vitiate the environment by these barbaric acts.”

Nuclear weapons, conventional weapons: “It is also essential to prevent another conflict between Pakistan and India. India’s military build-up, development of advanced nuclear weapons, and acquisition of destabilising conventional capabilities, can erode mutual deterrence between the two countries.”

Armed conflict: “From this platform, I want them all to know, the country that suffered the most, apart from Afghanistan, was Pakistan, when we joined the US War on Terror after 9/11. 80,000 Pakistanis died. $150 billion dollars were lost to our economy. There were 3.5 million internally displaced Pakistanis. And why did this happen? In the 1980s, Pakistan was a front-line state in fighting against the occupation of Afghanistan. Pakistan and the United States trained Mujahideen groups to fight for the liberation of Afghanistan. Amongst those Mujahideen groups was Al- Qaeda, various groups from all over the world. There were Mujahideen, Afghan Mujahideen. These were considered heroes....

“Come 1989, the Soviets leave, and so do the Americans - abandoning Afghanistan. Pakistan was left with 5 million Afghan refugees. We were left with sectarian militant groups which were never existed before. But the worse cut of it was, that a year later Pakistan was sanctioned by the US. We felt used.

“Fast forward 9/11, Pakistan is needed again by the US, because now the US-led coalition was invading Afghanistan, and it could not happen without Pakistan providing all the logistical support. What happened after that? The same Mujahideen that we had trained, that fighting foreign occupation was a sacred duty, a holy war or jehad, turned against us. We were called collaborators.

“They declared jehad on us. Then all along the tribal belt bordering Afghanistan - Pakistan’s semi-autonomous tribal belt - where no Pakistan army had been there since our independence, people had strong sympathies with the Afghan Taliban, not because of their religious ideology but because of Pashtun nationalism, which is very strong.

“For the first time we had militant Taliban in Pakistan. And they too attacked the Government of Pakistan. When our Army went into the tribal areas first time in our history - whenever an army goes into the civilian areas, there is collateral damage - so, there was collateral damage, which multiplied the militants to seek revenge.”

Drone strikes: “The world must know that in Pakistan there were 480 drone attacks conducted by the US. And we all know that the drone attacks are not that precise. They cause more collateral damage than the militants they are targeting.”

Armed conflict: “So, people whose relatives had been killed sought revenge against Pakistan. Between 2004 and 2014, there were 50 different militant groups attacking the State of Pakistan. At one point, people, people like us were worried, that will we survive this? There were bombs going all over Pakistan. Our capital was like a fortress….

“The only reason we suffered so much was because we became an ally of the US - of the Coalition - in the war in Afghanistan. There were attacks being conducted from the Afghan soil into Pakistan. At least there should have been a word of appreciation. But rather than appreciation, imagine how we feel when we are blamed for the turn of events in Afghanistan.

“After 2006, it became clear to everyone who understood Afghanistan and its history that there would be no military solution in Afghanistan. I went to the US, I spoke to thinktanks, I met the then Senator Biden, Senator John Kerry, Senator Harry Reid – I tried to explain to them that there would not be any military solution, and political settlement was the way forward. No one understood then.

“And unfortunately, in trying to force a military solution is where the US went wrong. And if today, the world needs to know why the Taliban are back in power, all it has to do is to do a deep analysis of why a 300,000 strong well equipped Afghan army – and remember Afghans are one of the bravest nations on earth - gave up without a fight. The moment a deep analysis of this is done, the world would know why the Taliban came back to power and it is not because of Pakistan.”

Palau
Surangel S. Whipps, Jr., President
21 September 2021

No relevant references.

Palestine
Mahmoud Abbas, President
24 September 2021

Armed conflict: “Does the Israeli occupying Power believe that it can elude its responsibility for the crime of uprooting more than half of the Palestinian people from their land and for committing numerous massacres, killing and maiming thousands of Palestinians in 1948, in Bald el-Sheikh, Deir Yassin, Abushusha, 2 Tantoura, Ein Zaytoun, Kabia and others and the subsequent destruction of over 500 Palestinian towns and villages? Does Israel believe it can simply ignore the legitimate rights, including political rights, of millions of Palestinians within and outside of Palestine, the owners and sons and daughters of this land, at the heart of it Jerusalem? Does it believe it can continue its policies to steal their land, suffocate their economy and prevent them from breathing the air of freedom?”

Armed conflict, militarism, military spending: “Until when will this historical injustice against our people continue? Do the States that provide financial and military support to Israel, which it uses to prolong its occupation and kill Palestinians, or those that remain silent in the face of its aggressive policies, besieging and suffocating Palestinians, do these States actually believe they are ensuring peace and security for the Israeli people and stability for the region? I say it loud and clear: they are not.”

Militarism, armed conflict: “However, the current and former Israeli governments have persisted in evading the two-State solution based on international law and UN resolutions, and insisted in pursuing occupation and military control over the Palestinian people while presenting illusionary economic and security plans as an alternative. These unilateral plans will not achieve security and stability for anyone as they undermine efforts for a genuine peace and prolong occupation and entrench the reality of one apartheid state.”

Panama
Laurentino Cortizo Cohen, President
23 September 2021

No relevant references.

Papua New Guinea
James Marape, Prime Minister and Minister for Bougainville Affairs
24 September 2021

No relevant references.

Paraguay
Mario Abdo Benítez, President
24 September 2021

No relevant references.

Peru
Pedro Castillo, President
21 September 2021

No relevant references.

Philippines
Rodrigo Roa Duterte, President
21 September 2021

Nuclear energy: “I issued a moratorium on the construction of new coal power plants and a directive to explore the nuclear energy option.”

Poland
Andrzej Duda, President
21 September 2021

No relevant references.

Portugal
Prof. Dr. Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, President
21 September 2021

No relevant references.

Qatar
Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, Amir
21 September 2021

Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA): “We see that there is no solution to the disagreements and differences in viewpoints with Iran except through rational dialogue based on mutual respect. This also applies to the issue of returning to the nuclear agreement with Iran. I do not think that anyone has an alternative to this approach, even those who oppose reverting to the agreement.”

Armed conflict: “This year witnessed numerous Israeli violations in the occupied East Jerusalem, and recurrence of attacks on Islamic and Christian sanctities, especially the Al-Aqsa Mosque during the holy month of Ramadan, and the seizure of Palestinian homes in the context of Judaization and settlement policies. This was followed by a dangerous military escalation in the Gaza Strip, which caused hundreds of casualties among unarmed civilians, and caused aggravation of the already dire humanitarian situation in the Strip.”

Armed conflict: “As you know, Qatar has spared no effort in helping to evacuate thousands of individuals and families of various nationalities [from Afghanistan] during the past weeks. This was our humanitarian duty. But the most important thing I want to refer to is that we were confident that war offers no solution and that there would be dialogue in the end….

“But it is necessary to avoid slipping into counter extremism by major powers when they abandon their duties regarding the issues of world peace, guaranteeing the implementation of international conventions and protecting civilians from war crimes. There is a difference between imposing trusteeship on other countries and carrying out duties by major powers to implement international resolutions and conventions. It is also unreasonable for major powers to impose by the force of arms on other countries a form of the political system that the major powers deem as appropriate on the one hand, and to give up, on the other hand supporting countries that have adopted the same system of government desired by the will of their peoples, and without external interference.”

Armed conflict, use of explosive weapons in populated areas: “A decade has passed since the start of the Syrian crisis, which unfolded with a peaceful uprising and then turned into a humanitarian catastrophe due to the war launched by the regime against its people and the extremist armed forces that took advantage of the situation. The continuation of the crisis poses immense perils, including the aggravation of the threat of terrorism to Syria itself and to the peace and security in the region and the world. The Syrian issue should not be neglected, nor should the international community turn its back on the suffering of the Syrian people, as is recently the case during the bombing of the city of Daraa and other areas. There may come a day when we may remember, with great regret, this neglect of human suffering from injustice.”

Armed conflict: “With regard to the crisis in Yemen, where the war has led to a tragic humanitarian situation and risks of division that may, in turn, lead to the outbreak of other conflicts, the State of Qatar affirms its keenness for Yemen's unity and territorial integrity and its firm position that the only way out of the crisis is through negotiation between the Yemeni parties on the basis of the outcomes of the national dialogue, the Gulf initiative, and the relevant Security Council resolutions, in particular, resolution 2216.”

Ceasefire: “Regarding the Libyan issue, the positive developments that Libya had witnessed during the past year give rise to cautious optimism. The ceasefire and convening the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum, and the election of representatives of the interim executive authority and winning a vote of confidence of the House of Representatives by the National Unity Interim Government, are all positive developments. We call on all Libyan parties to maintain these gains and to ensure the full implementation of what has been agreed upon on the political, economic and security tracks, and the successful holding of elections and working to achieve a comprehensive reconciliation.”

Cyber peace and security: “I refer also to the world's increasing dependence on information technology and modern communication in all aspects of life, from education, to security and the economy. But on the other hand, the world has felt the effects of the misuse of cyberspace, including breaching private domains of individuals and international piracy and the serious threat it poses to the security and stability of the international community. From this standpoint, we reiterate the call for the United Nations to lead the process of unifying the efforts to prevent the misuse of the scientific progress in cybersecurity and regularize these vital aspects according to the rules of international law.”

Republic of Korea
Moon Jae-in, President
21 September 2021

Nuclear weapons, Korean Peninsula: “Envisioning a de-nuclearized, co-prosperous Korean Peninsula, the government of the Republic of Korea has steadily carried forward the Korean Peninsula peace process, and amid the support of the international community, achieved historic milestones – the Panmunjeom Declaration, Pyongyang Joint Declaration of September 2018 and military agreement resulting from the inter-Korean Summit, as well as the Singapore Declaration from the US-North Korea Summit.

“Peace on the Korean Peninsula begins always with dialogue and cooperation. I call for speedy resumption of dialogue between the two Koreas and between the United States and North Korea. I hope to see that the Korean Peninsula will prove the power of dialogue and cooperation in fostering peace.

“Two years ago in this very place, I declared zero tolerance for war, mutual security guarantee and co-prosperity as the three principles in resolving issues related to the Korean Peninsula. Last year, I proposed a declaration to ending the War on the Korean Peninsula. More than anything, an end-of-war declaration will mark a pivotal point of departure in creating a new order of ‘reconciliation and cooperation’ on the Korean Peninsula.

“Today, I once again urge the community of nations to mobilize its strengths for the end- of-war declaration on the Korean Peninsula and propose that three parties of the two Koreas and the US, or four parties of the two Koreas, the US and China come together and declare that the War on the Korean Peninsula is over. When the parties involved in the Korean War stand together and proclaim an end to the War, I believe we can make irreversible progress in denuclearization and usher in an era of complete peace.

“In fact, this year marks a meaningful 30th anniversary of the simultaneous admission of South and North Korea into the United Nations. With the joint accession to the UN, the two Koreas both recognized that they were two separate nations different in systems and ideologies. However, such was never meant to perpetuate the division. For when we acknowledged and respected each other, only then could we set out on a path to exchange, reconciliation, and unification. When the two Koreas and the surrounding nations work together, peace will be firmly established on the Korean Peninsula and prosperity fostered across entire Northeast Asia. That will go down as a Korean Peninsula Model in which peace is attained through cooperation.”

Romania
Klaus Iohannis, President
21 September 2021

Cyber: “Recently we have also witnessed the potential and the challenges of digital technologies. We must ensure meaningful and safe access to the Internet, strengthen cybersecurity and promote responsible behavior in the cyberspace, while addressing the digital spread of hatred and disinformation. Bucharest brings its contribution by hosting the European Cybersecurity Centre, which will improve cyber-resilience and cybersecurity research across the European Union.”

Russian Federation
Sergey Lavrov, Minister for Foreign Affairs
25 September 2021

Militarism: “The might-is-right approach is being applied instead of right-is-might, instead of international law, with increasing frequency.”

Militarism: “President Biden has recently announced the rejection of military methods used to, as he put it, ‘remake other countries’. We expect the US to take one step further and reject any other methods of imposing their development model on others, not only military ones.”

Nuclear submarines: “At least many world media have perceived the plot twist of the story of supplying submarines to Australia as a response to talk of Europe’s strategic autonomy, that has intensified after the US’ hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan.”

Nuclear arms control: “Great expectations are also linked with the prospect of the Russian-American dialogue on the future of arms control, the start of which was agreed upon at the Russian-American summit in Geneva. Where there is good will, finding a mutually acceptable solution is very realistic. The world was encouraged when the new US administration agreed to our proposal to extend the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty without any preconditions. Of great importance was the fact that the Russian and US Presidents joint statement reaffirmed the commitment to principle according to which there can be no winners in a nuclear war and one must never be fought.”

“After Washington’s withdrawal from the INF Treaty, Russia has made a unilateral commitment not to deploy land-based intermediate-range or short-range missiles, both nuclear and non-nuclear, in regions where no similar US-made weapons would appear. We continue to wait for NATO members’ response to our proposal to proclaim a similar moratorium, reinforced with, and I would like to emphasise this, mutual verification measures.”

Cyber peace and security: “Amongst new challenges and threats, we also see states’ intention to militarise the internet and unleash a cyber arms race. Russia advocates for agreeing at the UN upon ways for ensuring international information security. The process here should not be based on someone’s special rules, but rather on universal agreements allowing to examine any concerns in a transparent manner, relying on facts. This is the aim of our initiative to elaborate standard norms for states’ responsible behaviour in the use of ICTs and are preparing a universal convention on combating cybercrime.

Outer space: “Along with the digital space, some countries view outer space as an arena for confrontation. We deem it to be a dangerous trend and propose to prohibit placement of weapons in outer space and the threat or use of force in it. The relevant Russian-Chinese draft treaty remains on the table of the Conference on Disarmament.”

Biological and chemical weapons: “We are awaiting the response to the Russian initiative to elaborate a convention on the suppression of acts of chemical and biological terrorism.”

Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action: “Together with our partners, we seek the soonest possible resumption of the full implementation of the JCPOA on settling the situation around the Iranian nuclear programme.”

Rwanda
Paul Kagame, President
21 September 2021

No relevant references.