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UNGA Disarmament Index 2003: S–Z

This is an index of all references made to issues of disarmament, peace, and security, made in the 58th General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly from 23 September–3 October 2003. 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. Dr. Timothy Harris, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Education
September 29, 2003

Terrorism: “In addition, Mr. President, we need the United Nations and its specialized agencies to fight terrorism. I insist that we cannot fight terrorism on one front. Terrorism and the means of execution are constantly changing. We must tackle it on all fronts through collective international resolve and responses. The United Nations has the international legitimacy to reach where armies and guns may not prevail. We must ready the United Nations for these challenges even while pressing for reform. We must encourage it to reinvent itself, where necessary, to meet old, current and emerging challenges.”

 

Saint Lucia
H.E. Dr. Kenny D. Anthony, Prime Minister
September 23, 2003

International Peace and Security: "Indeed, Secretary General Kofi Annan was moved to state that ‘it is uncertain whether the consensus and the vision that the Millennium Declaration expressed are still intact.’ Saint Lucia therefore calls on the international community to heed the appeal of our esteemed Secretary General to seek balance between the imperatives of military security and human security. In the interest of redistributive justice, global peace and security, the developed countries must not renege on their commitments to the developing world in the areas of trade, debt relief and aid.

"…By now, it should be clear to us all that poverty issues are inseparable from human rights issues, as are environmental issues from economic and political development issues. National security and international stability can only be realized where there is justice."

Terrorism: "It has become abundantly clear that the international community will not succeed in its war against terrorism, if it fails to address root causes. The current war on terrorism is designed to capture, confine or eliminate existing terrorist webs without addressing the causes of terrorism. Terrorism does not simply stem from the arrogance and madness of a few dictators and misguided fanatics - it is also the result of deep-seated inequity, and sometimes, bigotry. If the status quo denies opportunity, freedom and fulfilment to those who hunger and dwell in despair, the appeal of chaos and extremism as an avenue to change becomes that much more attractive. If on the other hand, we perceive that the world order works in all our interests then there will be universal commitment to sustain that order. Consequently, it is imperative that the international community jointly address economic injustice and political exclusion as common enemies of us all."

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
H.E. Loius Straker, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Commerce
October 1, 2003

Terrorism and weapons: "Mr. President, unless we can collectively find the courage and vision to tackle the problems of poverty, disease and despair, all the weapons in the world will not prevent the spread of terrorism. We need to move beyond using the United Nations as a talk shop and come together as responsible nations to tackle the root causes of terrorism."

Samoa
H.E. The Hon. Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, Prime Minister
September 26, 2003

Terrorism
: "For Samoa, I reaffirm our strong support for the relevant Security Council resolutions against terrorism. These resolutions provide clear signal of our determination to suppress terrorist activities, including training, international movement and financing. In this area, Samoa continues to align its domestic policies and legislation with the work of the Counter Terrorism Committee, as well as participate actively in the regional security measures undertaken in the Pacific region."

Weapons of Mass Destruction: "Samoa is most seriously concerned about the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction - chemical, biological and nuclear weapons. The determination of some countries to seek to bring such weapons into existence - particularly nuclear weapons - is cause for alarm and a serious threat to international peace and security. The internationally agreed instruments to control the manufacturing, transportation and deployment of weapons of mass destruction must be strengthened and implemented. Above all, State parties must adhere and honour their obligations to these treaties. Samoa joins the call for effective disarmament and total elimination of weapons of mass destruction."

San Marino
H.E. Mr. Fiorenzo Stolfi, Minister for Foreign and Political Affairs
September 26, 2003


Anti-Personnel Mines: "San Marino will continue to participate in the joint action for the total elimination of anti-personnel mines, and in this context, urges Countries that have not yet done so to accede to the Ottawa Convention."

Terrorism: "…San Marino reaffirms its decision to reject any form of terrorism and to fully contribute to its defeat, as testified by the Republic accession to several international instruments of the United Nations and of the European Organizations.

"Similarly, San Marino has promptly followed up to Resolution 1373 and will continue to monitor terrorism also at a domestic level, as evidenced by the implementation of the guidelines to fight this phenomenon and its related aspects.

"Terrorism, besides being inspired by fanaticism and fundamentalism, is too often linked to conditions of under-development and injustice. Its victims may in turn become instruments of violence and oppression.

"However, terrorism can be countered also by actively supporting international cooperation programmes to overcome disparities, poverty, discrimination and prevarication, violation of the rights of individuals and peoples, total lack of opportunities, and therefore hopelessness, mainly for younger generations, the future of mankind."

Sao Tome and Principe
H.E. Mr. Mateus Meira Rita, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
September 30, 2003

Multilateralism: "Mr. President, we must all work together to strengthen multi-lateral cooperation and ensure that the United Nations and all its agencies continue to be the for a forum where all members states can promote dialogue and ensure world peace, security, democracy and development."

Nonproliferation and WMD: "The world is a less secure place today than it was just a year ago. The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction continues, non-proliferation treaties notwithstanding. We must ensure the universality of these treaties and the compliance with same under the authority of the Security Council."

Terrorism: "We observe with great concern the spread of terrorist acts across the globe, ranging from tragic examples like Bali in Asia, to Palestine and Israel in the Middle East, to Spain and the U.K. in Europe, to Kenya and Tanzania in Africa, to Columbia in Latin America and right here to New York and other sites in North America. But fighting violence with violence is not enough. We must go to the root of the problem, and this is the task of the United Nations."

Saudi Arabia
H.R.H. Prince Saud Al-Faisal, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 29, 2003

Elimination of WMDs: "The government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques lends all its attention and consideration to the efforts aimed at eliminating weapons of mass destruction from the Middle East, including the region of the Arabian Gulf. We support the efforts of the Arab League, culminating in the Resolution of its Council in its 101st Session that calls for making this sensitive part of the world free of weapons of mass destruction of all kinds: nuclear, chemical or biological.

" What surprises us is that at a time when the International Atomic Energy Agency is intensifying its efforts and monitoring member countries of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, we see that it continues to ignore the rejection of Israel in not joining that Treaty, thus making its nuclear program outside international monitoring. This constitutes a serious threat to the security and stability of the whole region.

" Inasmuch as we believe in the importance of increasing the effectiveness of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty through activation of the guarantees system and the means of inspections and monitoring and internationalizing these means, we also believe in the importance of establishing safeguards and standards to promote development in all areas of eradication of weapons of mass destruction. Accordingly, we encourage all countries that have not yet joined the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty to take the necessary steps to do so and to make available their nuclear installations to the international monitoring system.

Terrorism and WMDs: "…His Excellency the Secretary-General referred with all clarity and transparency to the growing trend towards unilateral action outside the realm of international legitimacy in dealing with current problems such as terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. This excessive trend to resort to unilateral action on the basis of the right of self-defense could undermine the principle of collective security on which the Charter was founded. We stressed this in the Millennium Declaration that was issued by the General Assembly three years ago."

Senegal

Serbia and Montenegro
H.E. Mr. Svetozar Marovic, President
September 24, 2003

Multilateralism and Terrorism: "We can defeat terrorism only if we all join forces. That is why multilateralism for us has no alternative and the United Nations is a guarantee for that. Both today and tomorrow."

Terrorism: "That is why we are sure that life can be better for all peoples. With this hope, we subscribe to all those that perceive terrorism as one of the greatest evils facing the present-day world.

"…Terrorism is not a problem only for the rich countries. As the Secretary-General said yesterday, it is a problem of every man and every country the same as it is the problem of parents who lost their children just because they chose to swim in the river and belonged to a different religion and nationality.

"We deplore their death, the same as we deplore the terrorist attack in Baghdad, death of innocent people, death of Sergio Viera de Mello. We condemn this as all humane, civilized and progressive people do. But it is not enough. We have to strive that such things happen no more."


Seychelles

Sierra Leone
H.E. Mr. Solomon E. Berewa, President
September 25, 2003

Proliferation: "Two of the most worrying challenges to peace are terrorism and proliferation of arms, including weapons of mass destruction. We unreservedly deplore terrorism in all its forms and manifestation, and re affirm our commitment to resolving differences and conflicts through non-violent means."

SALW: "Of special concern to Sierra Leone is the proliferation of small arms in the West African sub-region. While a multi-prong strategy to rid Sierra Leone of small weapons, including an Arms for Development project, spearheaded by the UNDP, has yielded encouraging and hopeful results, we believe only a concerted regional approach that carries genuine, selfless political will can eliminate this scourge from the region."

Singapore
H.E. Prof. S. Jayakumar, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 29, 2003


International Security: "Today, we are again faced with radically new threats, not least of which is from global terrorist networks that respect neither national boundaries nor traditional international law. Clearly, the UN needs to fashion new and more flexible rules to deal with these new threats. Yet at the same time, we must continue to ensure that there are adequate safeguards to prevent abuse or a return to the law of the jungle."

Slovakia


Slovenia
H.E. Mr. Janez Drnovsek, President
September 26, 2003

Terrorism: "There is no doubt that we can only effectively fight international terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction through the broad cooperation of many countries. The UN played a central role in building an international coalition against terrorism and must continue to play that role.

"As we fight against the universal evil of terrorism we must ensure our eyes remain focused on upholding the great gains of our civilisation. And human rights take pride of place among those achievements. Sometimes we cannot avoid the Hobbesian dilemma between security and freedom. Still, we must be aware that the sacrifice of freedom for security frequently results in achieving neither. We must therefore ensure that international commitments to respect human rights are upheld."

Solomon Islands

South Africa
H.E. Mr. T.M. Mbeki, President
September 23, 2003

International Security: "Matters have evolved in such a manner that, to our limited understanding, it seems extremely difficult to resolve the issue of the role of the United Nations in Iraq, unless we answer the question about the future of the UN as the legitimate expression of the collective will of the peoples of the world, the principal guarantor of international peace and security, among other issues.

"…One of the matters that must be addressed is the issue of the accepted national right to self-defence, and the implications of the exercise of this right in the light of the historic responsibilities of the United Nations to guarantee international peace and security.

"In this regard, all of us face a challenge specific to our times. It arises out of the process of globalisation and the emergence of a global village. These phenomena have, among other things, resulted in the globalisation of the threat to the peace and security of all our states, not necessarily emanating from states that are bound by the rules we must all observe as members of the United Nations."

Terrorism: "The global resolve to defeat such organisations as Al Qaeda has emerged out of our understanding that international aggression should not necessarily be expected to emanate from formal and recognised state institutions.

"Our collective experience, stretching from New York and elsewhere in the United States on September 11, 2001, reaching back to Nairobi and Dar-es-Salaam in Africa earlier still and more recently to Bali in Indonesia, to Morocco, to the conflict between Israel and Palestine, to Algeria, India, Russia and elsewhere, and even our own country, this experience tells us that this organisation, the UN, working in defence of the collective interest of the peoples of the world, must ensure that we act together to defeat the threat of terrorism, collectively defined."

Spain
H.E. Mr. José María, Aznar, President
September 23, 2003

Proliferation: "Terrorists and states violating international law threaten that which we hold dearest: our lives and our liberty. The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction may make them even more lethal."

Terrorism: "We must work hard in our priority areas. Let us block the terrorists' sources of financing, and prevent their access to weapons of mass destruction. The nuclear, chemical and biological disarmament treaties must be put to use for this purpose. To prevent and intercept illegal trafficking in these weapons, a group of countries has implemented the Counter- Proliferation Security Initiative. Our first meeting was held in Madrid last June. You are invited to join us."

Sri Lanka
Sudan
H.E. Dr. Mustafa Osman Ismail, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 29, 2003


Chemical weapons: "Sudan is now a real partner in the international effort aiming at the prohibition of the chemical weapons. One of the significant roles played by the Sudan in this regard was its hosting, last August, of the first conference of the African National Authorities entrusted with the implementation of the Convention of the Prohibition of the Chemical Weapons. Thirty three African countries have participated in the said conference, in addition to other countries parties to the convention like the US, France, Romania and other related organizations headed by the Organization of the Prohibition of the Chemical Weapons…"

Chemical weapon-free zone: "…While assuming this mission, the Sudan reiterates the importance of the implementation of the recommendations adopted by the conference, in particular the one which calls for creating a chemical weapons free african zone, and enhancing the international cooperation regarding the peaceful use of chemical weapons…"

Nuclear Weapons and WMD-free zone: "…I would like to take this opportunity to call upon the international community to exert all efforts to establish a nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction free zone in the middle east, and to compel all the countries of this boiling region to commit themselves to all conventions banning nuclear
proliferation and the danger of nuclear tests. In this regard, we call upon the international community to exercise justice without any exception to any country to subject its nuclear facilities to the IAEA safeguards system…"

Suriname

Swaziland
H.E. Clifford S. Mamba, Ambassador
October 1, 2003

International Disarmament Regime: "…Under the Non Proliferation Treaty on Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (C TBT), we have made significant gains on the issue of nuclear disarmament but these alone cannot eliminate the threat of nuclear weapons. The Kingdom of Swaziland continues to hold the view that the international community must effectively address this matter in order to establish a clear timetable to which all nuclear powers must commit."

Small and light weapons: "In the struggle to outlaw weapons of mass destruction is the urgent need to address the issue of small arms and light weapons which have contributed to conflict and insecurity to many of our countries. Their easy accessibility, fuelled by illicit brokering is a major cause for concern. We appeal to all countries to fully implement the recommendations contained in the program of action adopted by the UN Conference on Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons held New York in 2001, with a view to combat this practice."

Sweden
H.E. Mr. Jan O. Karlsson, Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Development Cooperation, Migration and Asylum Policy of Sweden
September 25, 2003

International security: "We welcome his (Secretary-General’s) intention to establish a High Level Panel to consider threats to our security, and the institutional reforms required for the UN to respond."

Nuclear proliferation: "North Korea has withdrawn from the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty and remains unclear about its intentions. The nuclear programme in Iran, the possession of nuclear weapons by India and Pakistan, and Israel's refusal to sign the NPT continue to cause concern. In several countries nuclear weapons are accorded a growing importance in military doctrines. Discussions in the United States about the creation of a new generation of smaller nuclear arms are worrying. Such weapons would not contribute to a safer world, but risk lowering the threshold for the use of nuclear weapons.

WMD and the New Agenda Coalition: "The threats from weapons of mass destruction can only be met by multilateral efforts.
The negative arms spiral must be reversed. The Non-Proliferation Treaty must be universally complied with. Sweden continues to work for this goal, together with its partners in the New Agenda Coalition.

"The UN has a vital role in the enforcement of existing Weapons of Mass Destruction regimes. It is crucial that the UNMOVIC expertise is retained.

"The European Union has developed a common policy on weapons of mass destruction, and has decided to become more actively engaged in this field.

"We need new ideas on disarmament and non-proliferation, and on how to strengthen existing regimes. To this aim, Sweden has initiated an independent, international commission, chaired by Dr Hans Blix.

"Last June, the General Assembly adopted a forward-looking resolution on the prevention of armed conflict. Sweden will continue to work for a strengthening of the capacity of the UN's practical preventive work."

Switzerland
H.E. Mr. Pascal Couchepin, President
September 23, 2003

Conventional arms: "Together with other countries, Switzerland endeavours to promote this idea of human"security. This year it will commit itself to the issues of small arms and light weapons, and to anti-personnel mines. We hope that the General Assembly will set up a working group to develop an instrument for marking and tracing small arms. If the members states accept, Switzerland is prepared to take the chair. Furthermore, Switzerland takes an active interest in the issue of migration. We are working together with other countries to establish a global commission on migration which will be asked to present recommendations."

International Security: "Member states no longer agree on what they consider to be the principal threats to security today. Nor do they share the same priorities. While some States give precedence to the fight against terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, other regions in the world see the main dangers in civil wars, the proliferation of small arms, poverty, hunger, and the spread of HIV/AIDS. Can the international community reach a consensus on the objectives to be attained and on the way to achieve them? What importance should we give to multilateral co-operation? Has the time come to review the system of collective security which we inherited from the Second World War? Could it be that the UN is due for far-reaching reform?"

Landmines: "Together with other countries, Switzerland endeavours to promote this idea of human security. This year it will commit itself to the issues of small arms and light weapons, and to anti-personnel mines.”

Terrorism: "The time has come to rethink the role of the United Nations. Almost 60 years after the foundation of the Organisation, the threats to international security have changed, and so have the geopolitical realities. Terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction have taken on global dimensions. Civil wars have multiplied. HIV/AIDS has become the most deadly epidemic in the history of humankind. Poverty has not been eradicated."

Syrian Arab Republic
H.E. Farouk Al-Shara’, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 29, 2003


Elimination of WMD: "However we appeal to the international community to continue to support the Syrian initiative calling for the elimination of all weapons of mass destruction from the ME region."

Nuclear weapons/WMD-free zone: "Also ignored were the repeated appeals by all the countries of the region, with the exception of Israel to make the Middle East region a zone free from all weapons of mass destruction. Syria translated its words into deeds by tabling an integrated draft resolution calling for declaring the Middle East a zone free from all weapons of mass destruction. It is surprising that those who led the campaign against Syria stood in the way of adopting this Syrian initiative."

Proliferation of WMD: "As it is already known, this danger is not confined to a particular region in the world, but could be found in many other regions. What is truly regrettable though is that some quarters selectively choose to level their false accusations at some Arab and Islamic states but not on others, while simultaneously ignoring the Israeli arsenal of weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear, chemical and biological weapons."

Terrorism: "Syria condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Throughout its membership in the Security Council, it has been supporting the Council's efforts to counter international terrorism. Syria has also acceded to the relevant core international conventions to combat terrorism including the Arab Convention to Combat Terrorism, and the Convention of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) to Combat Terrorism. Both instruments define the terrorist crime, and distinguish between terrorism and the legitimate right of people under occupation to resist such occupation in accordance with international law and the charter of the United Nations."


Tajikistan
H.E. Mr. Emomali Rakhmonov, President
September 30, 2003

Nonproliferation: "Meanwhile, I would like to join the common concern over increased difficulties related to non-proliferation of such types of weapon in the world, including South Asia. I am convinced that the time has come not to weaken but rather intensify collective efforts and expand disarmament mechanisms."

Terrorism: "It is known that terrorism also poses a threat to democracy. Being for ten years sort of "a buffer zone" for expanding terror in Central Asia and other countries, Tajikistan has first hand experience with this issue. Just for this reason, Tajikistan has been an active participant in all of the measures and efforts aimed at uprooting this evil.

"We are equally resolute in condemning and counteracting all types of terrorism, no matter what motives could be behind the violence and frightening of innocent people. This battle can be won only through united efforts. We should not allow any selectiveness or double standards.

"However, it is known that one cannot curb terrorism only by military methods. It would be equally wrong to believe that this phenomenon is rooted in a single religion or culture. Terrorism does not only accept a democracy. It takes advantage of injustices and people's hurt feelings, of arrogance of some and a feeling of humiliation of others.

"Terrorism shows up in a place where one "absolute truth", in quotation marks, is confronted by another one. And though terrorism has nothing to do with the conflict of civilizations, the extension of a dialogue among civilizations that was begun by the General Assembly in 1998 would contribute to a better mutual understanding, the shortage of which is quite obvious.

"…Due to consolidated efforts, a severe blow was struck at terrorism as an organized phenomenon, but it has not been uprooted as yet. One of the lessons drawn in the course of this battle, in which Tajikistan is an active participant, is that international terrorism does not have an ideology, nor a nation, nor a homeland.

"Yet another thing has become known: terrorism cannot exist without financial and logistical support. It is in this venue that a democracy, besides terror, is faced with another threat, which is no less frightening, that is the threat of narcotics aggression.

"…Recently certain circles of people, using the world mass media, have been attempting to equate such grave threats to the mankind as terrorism and extremism with the holy religion of Islam. Such an interpretation distorts the peaceful essence of Islam and presents this religion to the international community as a source of evil and violence, giving rise to hostility towards the whole Muslim world and, unwillingly, encouraging neo-fascist and chauvinistic trends.

"Once again, we must emphasize that the acts of terror that are taking place in various countries, are the crimes committed by cruel, merciless people, driven by lust for power and personal gains, who essentially have nothing to do with the holy religion of the world's Muslims.

"Humanity should understand that Islam is not a religion of violence, but like the world's other religions calls people for mercy and compassion, for peace and accord."

WMD: "Turning Central Asia into a zone free of weapons of mass destruction is a matter of principle for Tajikistan, and that is why my country approved of the idea of establishing a nuclear free zone in the region."

Thailand
H.E. Mr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 30, 2003

International Security: "As 'freedom from fear' and 'freedom from want' are the two major components of human security, it is evidently clear that human security cannot be achieved because a country wants to do it all alone. Rather, human security is achieved because all countries decide to do it all together. It is achieved because countries are willing to forge partnership out of their differences to build strength for human security.

"That is why Thailand considers the membership of the Human Security Network an important partnership strength, complementary to the core values of the United Nations for the promotion of peace and security, economic and social development, human rights, humanitarian affairs and international law."

Landmines: "Only two weeks ago, Thailand was proud and honoured to have hosted the Fifth Meeting of the States Parties to the Mine Ban Convention. It was the first time this meeting came to Asia where land mines are threat to the security of hundreds of millions of people. Throughout our presidency of the Convention until the First Review Conference in November 2004, Thailand will do her utmost to ensure much further achievements and considerable progress in the core objectives of the Convention -- mine clearance, victim assistance, stockpile destruction and universal acceptance of the Convention."

Timor-Leste
H.E. Dr. Mari Alkatiri, Prime Minister
September 29, 2003

International Disarmament Regimes: "…Apart from these treaties previously mentioned, we have also ratified others equally important, like the Treaty on the NonProliferation of Nuclear Arms, the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development and Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and Their Destruction, the Convention on the Prohibition for the Use, Stockpiling and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on Their Destruction."

Nuclear Proliferation: "We would like to express our deep concern in relation to the abandonment of the Non-Proliferation Treaty on the part of North Korea and by its stated intention to produce nuclear weapons. North Korea has as its neighbors, three countries, which over the years have demonstrated friendship and solidarity. None of these three countries presents any threat to its security and sovereignty, thus not justifying, the production of nuclear weapons. The world must move towards a global agreement for the destruction of nuclear weapons and not for the increase, proliferation, manufacture and use of these weapons."

 


Togo
Tonga
His Royal Highness Prince 'Ulukalala Lavaka Ata, Prime Minister
September 26, 2003

Terrorism: "Security Council resolution 1373 continues to be the beacon that guides the activities of my Government to develop and enhance appropriate measures so as to strengthen our compliance. Tonga continues to support the work of the Counter Terrorism Committee (CTC) and has, to date, submitted all the necessary country reports requested of it. I am grateful to the CTC and the Security Council for their patience.

"After careful study of the UN Conventions on Terrorism, Tonga is now a party to all twelve instruments but merely becoming parties to these instruments will not suffice. Concrete steps will continue to be needed for small countries like mine to fully and meaningfully implement these obligations.

"We have strengthened our legislative framework and taken other measures so as to give domestic effect to such obligations. We continue to participate in national and regional activities designed to assist countries such as Tonga implement viable counter terrorism measures. The ongoing assistance of our traditional development partners and other organizations such as the Commonwealth and Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Secretariat has been a boon in this regard."

Tunisia
H.E. Mr. Habib Ben Yahia, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 26, 2003


International Security: "We are convinced that the deterioration of the situation in the world requires that the international community adopt a comprehensive and multidimensional approach based on the interdependence between peace and security on the one hand, and development on the other. We believe indeed that peace and security could not prevail worldwide unless the development needs of all peoples are addressed. We also recognize that development cannot be achieved in the absence of security and peace for all."

Terrorism: "Tunisia who has succeeded in promoting a secure, stable and well balanced society, in phase with progress and open to modernity and who considers that the well-being of man is the ultimate objective of social and economic development, and on the basis of its own national experience, believes that the fight against extremism and terrorism which constitute a serious threat to the whole world cannot succeed unless it is comprehensive and of multidimensional nature and take into account not only the security dimension but also the need to address the root-causes behind this phenomenon.

"We therefore underline the necessity to work towards developing an international common approach to fight the phenomenon of extremism and terrorism, taking into account all relevant international conventions.

"In this context, and pending the achievement of the desired progress in the adoption of a comprehensive international mechanism to fight terrorism, we would like to reiterate Tunisia's call for the conclusion of a code of conduct to fight terrorism to which all countries would adhere and which will include the principles around which a consensus could be built and could constitute a common denominator in collectively confronting this phenomenon. An international conference could be convened to lay the ground for this code."

Turkey
H.E. Mr. Abdullah Gül, Deputy Prime Minister
September 26, 2003

International Security: "…I should stress that Turkey is determined to remain a major contributor to peace, security and stability in her region and beyond. Turkey follows a multi-dimensional foreign policy that is active in various geographies. We believe in the vital role of the United Nations and its increased relevance in the present international environment, and are committed to promoting the effectiveness of our Organization."

Non-proliferation: "The world needs the elimination of weapons of mass destruction, not their proliferation. The inherent logic of this argument has been recognized by the community of nations that have adhered to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. We strongly support the efforts aimed at increasing the membership to non-proliferation agreements and regimes."

Terrorism: "Terrorism is a crime against humanity. We are dutybound to eradicate this evil from the face of earth."

Turkmenistan

Tuvalu
H.E. The Honourable Saufatu Sopoanga, Prime Minister
September 24, 2003

Radiological materials: "Each year highly radioactive and toxic material passes by ship through the Pacific on its way to and from north Asia and Europe. It is known that some of the materials are weapons grade. We are concerned about these shipments because of the massive threat they pose to the Pacific Ocean - a vital source of our livelihoods and economic development. We would like these shipments to cease, for the sake of lives in the islands and stability of the broader Pacific basin."

Terrorism: "Mr. President, in Tuvalu and the Pacific islands generally, our isolation and fragmentation and our lack of infrastructure and manpower leave us vulnerable to terrorism. This threatens our security, especially the security of our traditional and cultural practices upon which our very existence depends. Likewise it also threatens that of the world. We are therefore grateful for the UN's work on anti-terrorism in collaboration with the Pacific Islands Forum, and directly with national authorities.

"For our part, I am happy to say that Tuvalu is committed to acceding to the UN Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime and Terrorism and its three protocols and the other UN anti terrorism related conventions including, the UN Convention on the Safety of the UN and Associated Personnel. In line with this spirit, we are also committed to regional security arrangements, as set out by the Pacific Islands Forum.

" But to fulfill our international obligations on anti-terrorism, we need technical and financial assistance. More importantly, to strengthen resilience against our vulnerabilities, capacity building through appropriate education and human development is essentially imperative, for which we seek the kind support of the international community."

Uganda
H.E. James Wapakabulo, Second Deputy Prime Minister
October 1, 2003

Terrorism and WMDs: "…Uganda has supported the call for collective action against terrorism and weapons of mass destruction. We have noted the positive developments in the Great Lakes Region and expressed our commitment to building a peaceful and stable region."

Ukraine
H.E. Leonid D. Kuchma, President
September 24, 2003

Non-proliferation: "First of all, I have in mind effective measures to counter the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

"Ukraine unreservedly stands for comprehensive strengthening of the system of universal international treaties aimed at preventing nuclear threat.

"…There is also a need to further develop and improve the principles and mechanisms of application of international sanctions aimed at curbing the supply of weapons to zones of conflict."

Nuclear Disarmament: "In this context I would like to remind that Ukraine has made a tangible contribution towards a peaceful and safe world in the 21St century by renouncing its nuclear arsenal, one of the most powerful on the planet, and by decommissioning the Chernobyl nuclear power plant."

Terrorism: "Our country joined the anti-terrorist coalition since the very beginning and has made a significant contribution to its activities.

"We are determined to remain in the ranks of the coalition until international terrorism as a global threat can be taken off the world's agenda. However, I believe that today not all has been done to prevent terrorist activities."

United Arab Emirates
H.E. Mr. Rashid Abdullah Al-Noaimi, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 26, 2003


Terrorism: "The United Arab Emirates, which condemns all kinds and forms of terrorism, calls for mobilizing all national, regional and international efforts to combat and eradicate these dangerous phenomena, which is used by radicals and outlaws as means to fulfill their destructive goals…We express our support for all measures it took to eradicate terrorist activities. In the mean time we call the international community to convene an international conference to tackle terrorism and uproot its causes and tools."

WMD and Nonproliferation: "It is required that the Middle East zone, including the Arabic Gulf region, should be freed of weapons of mass destruction, and that Israel joins the Nuclear-Non Proliferation Treaty, and subjects its nuclear facilities to the guards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) pursuant to relevant United Nations resolutions."

United Kingdom
H.E. Rt. Hon. Jack Straw, Member of Parliament, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
September 25, 2003

Counter-terrorism: "The Counter-Terrorism Committee has given the UN a focus for its work post 11 September. But we must now build upon it, giving it the expertise and the remit to reinforce the capacity of Member States to tackle and to overcome terrorism."

Proliferation: "We all know that proliferation is one of the greatest threats we face. Much good work is being done by UN agencies, particularly the IAEA. But the Security Council itself has not addressed this issue for ten years. It is time that it did."

Security and multilateralism: "We do not have the luxury simply of rejecting unilateralism, while proposing no multilateral means of confronting these threats."


United Republic of Tanzania

United States
H.E. Mr. George W. Bush, President
September 23, 2003

Proliferation of WMD: "A second challenge we must confront together is the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Outlaw regimes that possess nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons- and the means to deliver them- would be able to use blackmail and create chaos in entire regimes.

"...Nations of the world must have the wisdom and the will to stop grave threats before they arrive. One crucial step is to secure the most dangerous materials at their source. For more than a decade, the United States has worked with Russia and other states of the former Soviet Union to dismantle, destroy, or secure weapons and dangerous materials left over from another era. Last year in Canada, the G8 nations agreed to provide up to $20 billion- half of it from the United States- to fight this proliferation risk over the next 10 years. Since then, six additional countries have joined the effort. More are neded, and I urge other nations to help us meet this danger.

"We’re also improving our capability to interdict lethal materials in transit. Through our Proliferation Security Initiative, 11 nations are preparing to search planes and ships, trains and trucks carrying suspect cargo, and to seize weapons or missile shipments that raise proliferation concerns. These nations have agreed on a set of interdiction principles, consistent with legal- current legal authorities. And we’re working to expand the Proliferation Security Initiative to other countries. We’re determined to keep the world’s most destructive weapons away from all our shores, and out of the hands of our common enemies.

"Because proliferators will use any route or channel that is open to them, we need the broadest possible cooperation to stop them. Today I ask the UN Security Council to adopt a new anti-proliferation resolution. This resolution should call on all members of the UN to criminalize the proliferation of weapons- weapons of mass destruction, to enact strict export controls consistent with international standards, and to secure any and all sensitive materials within their own borders."

Uruguay
H.E. Mr. Didier Opertti Badán, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 30, 2003

Multilateralism: "Although it is true that the system of collective security established by the Charter is imperfect not always has been able to respond to crisis in an effective way, in numerous cases a multilateral action undertaken by the United Nations has succeeded in restoring peace in many regions and countries, contributed to the consolidation of democracy, and accelerated reconstruction in affected countries.

"…The second premise is that the process of reform should be aimed principally at strengthening multilateral action because never before has the need to cooperate and to act together to deal with international problems been so great.

"…The question of fulfillment of the obligations assumed is the weak link in the chain of multilateralism. We must seek ways of ensuring respect for international obligations. Over the long term, the satisfaction of common interests is the best way of satisfying the national interest."

Terrorism: "Just as in the fight against poverty, terrorism cannot be defeated as a conventional enemy would be with a victorious battle. The eradication of terrorism is an ongoing objective whose achievement requires time, patience and perseverance. Only through a joint approach and multilateral action directed above all at the roots of terrorism – not only at its atrocious manifestations – will it be possible to reduce and hopefully to eliminate this perverse and ubiquitous enemy and at the very least ensure its total rejection.

"Uruguay, which is party to most international instruments for combating terrorism, attaches priority to the conclusion of a general convention against international terrorism. In this respect, we wish to express our satisfaction to the Secretary-General for having chosen transnational organized crime and terrorism as an item in the signing and accession ceremony for treaties promoted by the Organization on the occasion of this General Debate."

Uzbekistan
H.E. Mr. Sodyq Safaev, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 30, 2003

International Security: "It is well known that after the events of September 11, 2001, the contemporary world has been on the verge of fundamental transformation caused by new challenges and threats to security in many regions of the planet. This harsh reality unequivocally increases the responsibility of the United Nations as a unique international institution whose role cannot be substituted by anyone or anything. It also increases the responsibility of each and every nation to preserve peace and stability in countering the threats to modern civilization like international terrorism, extremism, and the ever-growing scale of drug trafficking.”

Nonproliferation: "Uzbekistan advocates for strict compliance with global nuclear non-proliferation regime by all nations. Today, in our view, the significance of the initiative of Uzbekistan and other countries of the region to establish a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia has become paramount. We greatly appreciate the efforts of Mr. Kofi Annan, the UN Secretary-General and the UN Department for Disarmament in supporting the Expert Group, which is currently working on the draft treaty.

"The process of establishment of the Zone is nearly complete, and to legitimize it, Uzbekistan calls on all permanent UN Security Council members to develop a consolidated position with the region’s states on the provisions of the draft treaty and its protocol."

Terrorism: "Being in immediate proximity to Afghanistan, we - the nations of Central Asia - know firsthand what these threats are and what they can bring to the world, if timely steps are not taken to prevent and eliminate such threats at their very core. In this context, it is difficult to overestimate the significance of actions of the international antiterrorist coalition led by the United States of America and of the International Security Assistance Force, which are doing so much to revive and restore peace and stability in long-suffering Afghanistan.

"…Lessons learned in recent years have confirmed that overcoming the consequences of terrorism and extremism is more difficult than their timely prevention. Moreover, an aggressive drive of terrorists to acquire weapons of mass destruction has become a new reality. International community should confront these far-reaching plans by an effective and streamlined system of measures to prevent access by terrorists to arms, new technologies, and dual use materiel.

"Uzbekistan welcomes the progress made in the development of legal instruments aimed at combating international terrorism. Tangible results, however, can be achieved only by creating a global system of comprehensive cooperation. That is why we support the work of the Counter Terrorism Committee of the UN Security Council. We are confident that Regional Antiterrorism Center of Shanghai Cooperation Organization, opened for collaboration with other similar centers, is an important component of global antiterrorist system.

"To prevent emergence of threats of international terrorism and extremism, it is important to confront international centers of extremism and dissemination of the ideology of fanaticism. These centers, despite current measures to isolate them, still possess substantial financial resources and capacity to influence the hearts and minds of the youth, and to mobilize the youth for their far-reaching objectives.

"In addition to the measures being implemented today, it is desirable to establish a special UN Program that would promote education and awareness in the youth while developing its strong immunity to extremist ideology."

Vanuatu (French Only)
H.E. Rialuth Serge Vohor, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, External Trade and Telecommunication
October 1, 2003

Nuclear waste: "Malgré l'opposition de la région du Pacifique au transport de déchets nucléaires dans les eaux de la région, certaines puissances font preuve d'une absence totale de respect envers la souveraineté des petits Etats insulaires du Pacifique. Il ne s'agit pas uniquement d'une question d'environnement et de protection de nos ressources naturelles contre toute catastrophe mais bien davantage d'éthique. En d'autre terme, nous déplorons l'absence totale de respect envers les petits Etats insulaires du Pacifique en tant que membre à part entière de la communauté internationale."

Venezuela
H.E. Mr. Roy Chaderton-Matos, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 26, 2003

Multilateralism: "The action taken by Venezuela has been aimed at restoring and promoting multilateralism as a medium and background for the structuring of a multipolar world.

"Unilateralism is monochromatic, sluggish and oppressive. Multilateralism is colorful, animated and democratic."

Terrorism: "Terrorism destroys the life of both innocent humans and combatants. It is a calamity that afflicts family members, friends and nations.

"There is no good terrorism. Not in the name of a race or a nationality. Not in the name of justice or liberty. Not in the name of God.

"Four days ago, on behalf of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, I filed the documents for the ratification of the Convention Against Terrorist Attacks with Bombs, the Convention Against the Financing of Terrorism and the Organizational Protocol for the Convention on the Rights of the Child with regard to the Participation of Children in Armed Conflicts. Yesterday, the Venezuelan Parliament converted the Inter-American Convention against Terrorism into a Law of the Republic. We expect that the ratification procedure will be completed by all O.A.S. members as described above.

"However, we must persevere in our head-on struggle against the most widespread and destructive forms of terrorism: poverty and social disenfranchisement. Otherwise, we shall not be able to realize the objectives of the Millennium Summit Meeting to reduce world poverty 50% by the year 2015, and we shall be defrauding our populations and sowing further conditions for violence, terrorism and war."

Viet Nam
H.E. Mr. Nguyen Dy Nien, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 26, 2003

Disarmament: "Vietnam supports international efforts for disarmament and for the peaceful resolution of conflicts on the basis of respect for sovereignty and legitimate interests of the parties concerned."

International Security: "Strengthening international peace and security, and enhancing development remain our primary task. Only in an environment of peace and stability can nations concentrate their energy to meet the challenges of development and to achieve poverty eradication. A healthy, equitable international relations can only be built on the principles of the UN Charter and international law, especially those of respect for national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and non interference in the internal affairs of states."

Multilateralism: "Multilateralism is crucial for the solution of the global issues.

"…Today's challenges, old and new, are going global. They require measures of a more global and multilateral nature."

Nuclear Disarmament: "Vietnam supports the peaceful efforts towards denuclearization on the Korean peninsula. We wish that the negotiations initiated by the 6-party talks in Beijing last August will lead to a satisfactory conclusion, for the sake of peace, stability and development on the peninsula, as well as in the region and in the world."

Terrorism: "Following the event of 11 September, the world has made great efforts to combat terrorism. The message is very clear: terrorism must be condemned and eliminated from human civilization. As this common fight can be long and arduous, we need to cooperate on the basis of the principles of the UN Charter, along with an endeavor to solve the problems of poverty, injustice, oppression, etc., which give rise to terrorism."

Zimbabwe
H.E. Mr. Robert Mugabe, Presidents
September 26, 2003

International Security: "Mr. President, there can never be world peace under conditions of foreign invasion and occupation. There can never be world security and order when naked power suspends and substitutes with unilateralism the hallowed principle of multilateralism, on the basis of which we have made peace, kept peace, preserved and expanded it since the Second World War."