UNGA Disarmament Index 2004: H–R
This is an index of all references made to issues of disarmament, peace, and security, made in the 59th General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly from 21 September–1 October 2004. 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.
Haiti | Holy See | Honduras | Hungary
Iceland | India | Indonesia | Iran | Iraq | Ireland | Israel | Italy
Jamaica | Japan | Jordan
Kazakhstan | Kenya | Kiribati | Kuwait | Kyrgyzstan
Laos | Latvia | Lebanon | Lesotho | Liberia | Libya | Liechtenstein | Lithuania | Luxembourg
Macedonia | Madagascar | Malawi | Malaysia | Maldives | Mali | Malta | Marshall Islands | Mauritania | Mauritius | Mexico | Micronesia | Moldova | Monaco | Mongolia | Montenegro | Morocco | Mozambique | Myanmar
Namibia | Nauru | Nepal | Netherlands | New Zealand | Nicaragua | Niger | Nigeria | Norway
Oman
Pakistan | Palau | Palestine | Panama | Papua New Guinea | Paraguay | Peru | Philippines | Poland | Portugal
Qatar
Republic of Korea | Republic of Moldova | Romania | Russian Federation | Rwanda
H.E. Archbishop Giovanni Lajolo, Secretary for the Holy See’s Relations with States
September 29, 2004
General and complete disarmament: “Of immediate relevance to the supreme good of peace is the theme of total and general disarmament. If it is true that the production and sale of arms to other countries endangers peace, it follows that severe and effective international controls are needed.”
Terrorism: “The underlying causes are many and complex: political, social, cultural, religious; for this reason, what is still more important is long-term action, directed, with foresight and patience, at its roots, designed to stop it from spreading further and to extinguish its deadly contagious effects.”
WMD: “The problem of weapons of mass destruction is clearly to be distinguished from that of conventional weapons; but the latter have a terrible and unending contemporary relevance in the numerous armed conflicts that stain the world with blood, and also in terrorism.”
H.E. Mr. Gábor Bródi, Deputy State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of
September 29, 2004
NPT: “In our fast-changing security environment worldwide, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons is and should remain the cornerstone of the universal non-proliferation regime. Along with our E.U. partners, we are committed to safeguard the authority and the integrity of the Treaty. It is also in this context that we are looking forward to the 7th Review Conference of the NPT next year.”
Proliferation: “The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery continue to be a clear and present threat to international peace and security. New discoveries of large-scale nuclear weapon programs, networks of illicit trafficking in nuclear material and technology and the ill-conceived policies of denial and deceit about their purpose and nature, remain a most serious concern to the international community.”
“Hungary strongly supports the implementation of Security Council resolution 1540, calling on all states to establish effective national export controls. We call for the full implementation of this resolution. In addition to that, we are prepared to assist others in doing so.”
Terrorism: “We fully support the important work of the Counter-Terrorism Committee of the Security Council. We hope that its reinvigorated activity, including planned visits by the CTC to Member States, will contribute to the enhancement of our capability to combat terrorism.”
H.E. Mr. Geir H. Haarde, Minister of Finance and acting Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004
Multilateralism: “Iceland is totally committed to the multilateral system of which the UN is the fulcrum. Without an effective multilateral system conflict and its causes will be much more difficult to address. But to be effective the system needs to change.”
Terrorism: “The war against terrorism is a struggle against barbarism. The perpetrators of terror must be rooted out and their bases and networks destroyed. This war is inherently a campaign in support of the values the UN seeks to foster and it is in response to a threat which has serious implications for all member states of our organization. Our challenge is to actively defend freedom against the forces of tyranny to affect the conditions which help create the specter of terrorism.”
H.E. Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of
September 23, 2004
Disarmament: "As far back as 1988, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had outlined a series of specific steps in an Action Plan, whose central proposition remains valid- that progressive steps toward the elimination of weapons of mass destruction must be based on a balance of obligations between those who possess such weapons and those who do not. It is quite evident today that a global discussion is required for evolving a more cooperative and consensual international security order. India believes that this consensus must differentiate between States whose actions strengthen non-proliferation and those that weaken its objective."
Multilateralism: "Democracy's representative nature validates the commitments we take on as countries; it should also determine the manner in which the architecture of international institutions evolves. For what is required for the international community to successfully deal with global challenges, whether they be security challenges, economic challenges or challenges in the sphere of the environment are the existence of international institutions and a culture of genuine multilateralism."
Proliferation: "There is an increasing reliance on restrictive regimes and the use of punitive action to confront (the threat of WMD proliferation). While India is opposed to proliferation and has an impeccable record in this respect, we believe that it is only a global consensus of willing nations that would ultimately prove to be more effective in this regard.
"The Chemical Weapons Convention is a good model to follow in respect of other weapons of mass destruction including nuclear weapons. It is through representative institutions rather than exclusive clubs of privileged countries that we can address global threats posed by proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery."
Terrorism: "Terrorism is one such (transnational) challenge for which many of us have paid an unacceptable price... Terrorism exploits the technologies spawned by globalization, recruits its foot soldiers on ideologies of bigotry and hatred, and directly targets democracies. And yet it is an sad reality that international networks of terror appear to cooperate more and effectively among themselves than the democratic nations that they target. We speak about cooperation, but seem hesitant to commit ourselves to a global offensive to root out terrorism..."
H.E. Dr. N. Hassan Wirajuda, Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 27, 2004
Terrorism: “Our faith remains firm that the fight against terror can be won. The world can be made immensely safer. But the global coalition to defeat terrorism must be inclusive. It must be multilateral and democratic. It must empower the moderates of the world.
“And it must address the root causes of terrorism: the grievances and the poignant sense of injustice that drive human beings to such depths of despair, they would carry out the most heinous acts of mass murder and destruction.
“It must address the grievances due to poverty that is the offshoot of social and economic inequities, the affronts of tyranny and corruption, and the failure of states to deliver a standard of living that befits human dignity. They include grievances due to political oppression, such as the aggression and brutalities that the Palestinian people continue to suffer in the hands of the occupying power.
“For the coalition that would fight terrorism and poverty to be truly multilateral and democratic, it must include the regional organizations, which have been envisioned in the UN Charter as the pillars of global multilateralism.”
H.E. Dr. Kamal Kharrazi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 24, 2004
Disarmament and Proliferation: “… one particular area that requires resolute action by the international community is the existence and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction… Iran feels very strongly about the absolute imperative of a collective and rule based multilateral campaign to eradicate all these weapons and to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons as an interim measure. This must be done by the universal application of disarmament and nonproliferation instruments in a comprehensive and non-discriminatory manner.”
NWFZ: “Iran has been in the forefront of efforts to establish a zone free from weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East.”
Security: “Extremism has two distinct and yet interconnected faces: violence and terrorism of non-state actors and unbridled militarism of states. The former leads to increasing insecurity and the latter to increasing lawlessness. Insecurity is manifested in the horrendous acts of extreme violence and terrorism; whether it is in Iraq, Afghanistan or in Russia. Lawlessness is manifested in going outside of the law among nations and the UN Charter, relying on the glorification of force and the brute use of the military might. Lawless militarism of the powerful has given rise to increasing violence and terrorism and is also marketed as the panacea to them.”
Terrorism: “As terrorism has become an international challenge, an effective fight against it requires a global approach based on collective cooperation under the provisions of the UN Charter as well as the principles of the international law…
“The Islamic Republic of Iran strongly condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and we have demonstrated our strong conviction in fighting terrorism by the arrest and hand over of the greatest number of Al-Qaeda members apprehended by any single state to date… However, the prevailing international approach which is primarily a law and order approach is clearly failing to curb terrorism. We need to revisit our premises and try to develop a genuinely collective, inclusive and well-rounded and multi-disciplinary approach, if we are serious about this fight. No state can even come close to doing it alone.”
Transparency: “…the legitimate disarmament and nonproliferation concerns of the international community must be addressed through transparency and vigorous application of monitoring mechanisms. Iran has always been prepared to contribute actively to this global effort.”
Universality: “The (arms control) multilateral instruments must become truly universal and the rights and obligations of all must be scrupulously enforced. Access to technology for peaceful purposes is the only true incentive for the universality of these instruments.”
H.E. Mr. Brian Cowen, T.D., Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004
Conventional weapons: "The proliferation of conventional weapons is causing enormous death and destruction. Concerted international action is required to effectively tackle their devastating impact on societies worldwide, particularly in developing countries. It is a sobering statistic that annual global spending on defense is estimated to be in the region of 950 billion euros. We need to progressively reallocate the world's resources towards more peaceful and developmental purposes."
Landmines: "This year we commemorate the fifth anniversary of the entry-into-force of the Ottawa Convention on Landmines. I look forward to the first Review Conference in Nairobi which will not only provide an opportunity to measure progress made but also to consider how to achieve universal respect for the principles and application of this important Treaty."
NPT: "During the period of this General Assembly, we will meet to review again the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Ireland and its partners in the New Agenda Coalition are determined to strengthen the Treat, and to ensure respect for its provisions, and we call on all States to make this a key priority. THe possession of nuclear weapons by States outside the Treaty, and non-compliance with its provisions by States Parties is a grave concern.
"Ireland is convinced that disarmament and non-proliferation are mutually reinforcing and that both must be vigorously pursued. We need therefore to build on the outcome of the 2000 Review Conference, which, in thirteen practical steps, provided a realistic and coherent blueprint for achieving nuclear disarmament. A firm commitment to, and a clear prospect of, nuclear disarmament, combined with a rigorous control regime, would help to strip nuclear weapons of the attraction that they now possess for some States. Let us therefore rededicate ourselves to the task of consigning nuclear weapons, and all weapons of mass destruction, to the dustbin of history. It is an ideal, but one worth striving for."
SALW: "Here at the United Nations, I welcome the progress made towards the negotiation of an INstrument on tracing and marking small arms and light weapons, an instrument which I hope will be legally binding."
Terrorism: "Terrorism can rarely be defeated by exclusively military or security means, though they are obviously a very necessary component in the fight against terrorism. It is necessary, at the same time, to address the root causes of terrorism....
"Let there be no misunderstanding. I offer no excuses for terrorism. Terrorism is evil. But it is my strong belief that people are not born evil. At a certain point in their life, something-perhaps a particular event or the experience of indoctrination- causes them to embrace evil. To seek to address that root cause is not to be soft on terrorism. It is the intelligent way to attack terrorism.
"Terrorism tests the effectiveness of our national and collective security systems, but it also tests the quality of our institutions, including our systems of justice, and the strength of our values. As we seek to protect ourselves, we must ensure that these institutions remain strong, that democratic values are not undermines, that our systems of justice are not compromised and that our struggle is conducted in full respect for international law and human rights norms. If we fail to do this, any success we achieve over terrorists will be at the expense of the way of life we seek to protect."
WMD: "Weapons of mass destruction, chemical, biological and nuclear, give rise to a unique- fear- a fear of widespread annihilation. This fear is itself a source of instability, and a clear threat to international peace and security. That such weapons might fall into the hands of terrorists is an appalling prospect."
H.E. Silvan Shalom, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 23, 2004
Proliferation: "Today we are also more united than ever in opposition to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The international community now realizes that Iran- with missiles that can reach London, Paris, Berlin and southern Russia- does not only pose a threat to the security of Israel, but to the security and stability of the whole world."
Terrorism: "...the world is beginning to realize what we, in Israel, have long known: That terrorism is a challenge to humanity as a whole, not just to individual countries; that the response to this global threat must also be global, if it is to be effective; that the threat of terrorism anywhere is a threat to freedom everywhere; that fighting terror is crucial to our ability to bring peace.
"There was a time, when the problems of terror, Islamic fundamentalism and Iranian nuclear ambition, were seen as local problems- Israel's problems- not challenges which threatened the community of nations as a whole."
H.E. Hon. Franco Frattini, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 23, 2004
Multilateralism: "In our globalized, interdependent world, the international organizations are expected to provide leadership not only through abstract formulations of general principles but also through effective, shared initiatives supported by broad consensus. Our priority is to strengthen the multilateral system and reinvigorate the role of the United Nations."
Terrorism: "This year's general debate unfolds against an international backdrop in which terrorist acts of great ferocity have become all too common."
H.E. Hon. K.D. Knight, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of
September 27, 2004
Nuclear weapons: “The threats and dangers we face are as valid as those arising from the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. These also demand collective action and in this Jamaica has been unrelenting in its support of effective measures for curtailing the spread of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction.”
Security: “International security is dangerously at risk. What is clear to us is that violence and the use of force cannot be the answer. We must embrace multilateralism and insist that international relations be guided by the rule of law as the basis for our collective security.”
SALW: “Small countries face particular dangers in maintaining stability and security. I am referring to the increasing production, distribution and proliferation of small arms and light weapons and sophisticated ammunition. These represent our greatest security threat. Small states do not produce these weapons but have become the principal victims. The influx of these weapons through various illicit channels is fuelling civil conflict and criminal violence, the extent and intensity of which beleaguer and often overwhelm national security forces. It is estimated in the 2004 Small Arms Survey that proliferation and misuse of small arms contributes annually to approximately 200-270,000 civilian deaths, 40% of which are concentrated in the Latin American and Caribbean region.
“Equally disturbing to us is the sufficient appreciation of these dangers by those countries which are the producers and source of the weapons. We maintain that such states have a duty to prevent illicit transfers beyond their borders. Additionally, we need more effective co-operation to regulate and restrict the movement of these weapons and to have an effective registration and monitoring of transfers operating within a framework of legally binding obligations. For this reason, it is urgent that we move to conclude the negotiations for an International Convention to achieve these objectives.”
H.E. Mr. Junichiro Koizumi, Prime Minister of
September 21, 2004
Disarmament: "...Japan has been at the forefront in promoting nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. Japan hopes to achieve a peaceful and safe world free of nuclear weapons. Furthermore, Japan has collaborated with other countries to prevent states of concern and non-state actors from acquiring weapons of mass destruction."
DDR: "Japan has been actively promoting Afghan efforts for disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR)."
Proliferation: "The nuclear and missile issues on the Korean Peninsula present a serious challenge to the peace and stability of Northeast Asia and to the international community as a whole. Japan is determined to continue to seek comprehensive resolution of the nuclear and missile issues and the abduction issue in line with the Pyongyang Declaration."
Security: "...Japan is advocating the concept of 'human security.' Based upon this idea, Japan is making efforts to realize a seamless transition from humanitarian assistance to reconstruction support in countries such as Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Timor-Leste."
Terrorism and WMD: "Today, the international community is striving to meet challenges that the founders of the United Nations could not have envisioned some sixty years ago. The fight against terrorism and efforts to ensure non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction are just a few examples of these challenges."
"Weapons of mass destruction, missiles and terrorism threaten international security in the world of today."
H.E. Dr. Marwan Muasher, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 27, 2004
Terrorism: “In our view, a meaningful and effective global campaign against (terrorism) requires consensus on the following principles: respect for the provisions of the Charter and the rules of international law, and non-transgression against the sovereignty of States; striking a balance between the counter terrorism measures taken by States and the principles of human rights and public freedoms and non-abuse of the state of emergency to justify the counter-terrorism measures; providing a clear and specific legal definition for ‘terrorism’ as well as for the concept of ‘terrorist groups’, which would not allow any justification for the commission of terrorist acts. By the same token, such definitions should not compromise the rights envisioned in the Charter and the international humanitarian law, such as the right to self-determination. In the same vein, combating global terrorism ought not be a tool for discrimination against the followers of any creed or a cover for assault against their religious beliefs. Finally, the ‘no justification for terror’ policy should not translate into disregarding its underlying reasons. Rather, an effective battle against terrorism would require global cooperation in addressing its root causes and the genesis of this plague.
“Furthermore, the campaign against terrorism should bolster the efforts to fight the most serious crimes of concern to the international community, namely, aggression, genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.”
H.E. Mr. Kassymzhomart K. Tokaev, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 24, 2004
CTBT: “We call for an early entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test Ban Treaty and urge the governments of those states that have not yet ratified that instrument to display political will and genuine commitment to nuclear disarmament.”
Confidence Building: “Kazakhstan’s initiative regarding the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building in Asia, (CICA) already a fact of international life, is an effective tool designed to strengthen confidence and security in Asia.”
CD: “We believe that the negotiation process within the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva should be reactivated. In our view, the potential of that important forum is far from being tapped to the fullest extent.”
Multilateralism: “Kazakhstan calls for the establishment of a Council of Regional Organizations, under the Secretary-General of the United Nations. Close attention should be paid to the proposal to establish an Economic and Social Security Council. We believe that these proposals reflect the need to strengthen global multilateral cooperation.”
NPT: “As one of the few states that have voluntarily gave up their nuclear weapons, Kazakhstan is concerned by the current status of the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. That important treaty has been seriously eroded because of destructive actions on the part of a number of known states. We should recognize that the nonproliferation regime faces a formidable threat and that there is a real possibility of an uncontrolled spread of weapons of mass destruction and most importantly, of terrorists getting hold of them.”
NWFZ: “…we consider that the establishment of a nuclear weapons free zone in Central Asia is a very important and timely proposal.”
Security: “The central issue of international security is turning the United Nations into an effective tool designed to strengthen regional and global security systems and the regime of nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction and to manage globalization processes.”
SALW: “The Government of Kazakhstan attaches great importance to the consistent implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons, as discussed at a regional conference in Almaty in March of 2004.”
Terrorism: “For years, the international community has been ignoring the most burning problems of social and economic development and failed to address poverty, misery, illiteracy and various forms of discrimination. As a result, we are faced with an unprecedented threat of international terrorism, which undermines the pillars of the world economy and security. Nevertheless, we have not done yet anything meaningful in order to get a detailed analysis of the ideology behind international terrorism and its institutional base and sources of finances. In other words, the central nature of international terrorism remains a terra incognita for all of us; we are familiar only with its ugly manifestations.”
“It is encouraging that the reform of the Counter Terrorism Committee of the United Nations Security Council is gaining momentum. With the current escalation of international terrorism, the role of that Committee should become more important, otherwise global counter terrorism efforts to address new challenges and threats would not be as effective, against the wishes of the peoples of the world.”
Hon. Amb. Chirau Ali Mwakwere, MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 27, 2004
Landmines: “The production, stockpiling, transfer and use of anti-personnel landmines is a problem of major proportions which has caused untold suffering to populations worldwide. With respect to this problem, Africa is the most mine-affected continent. Kenya has been bestowed with the honor to host the First Review Conference on the Convention on the…Ottawa Convention. The Conference, also known as the ‘Nairobi Summit 2004 on a Mine-Free World,’ will be held from November 29 to December 3, 2004.”
SALW: “Long running conflicts in our sub-region have led to the proliferation of small arms and light weapons which constitute major security concerns to my country and others. For this reason, Kenya has been at the forefront of regional initiatives to combat the menace. In March 2000, Kenya hosted the First Ministerial Conference, which produced the Nairobi Declaration on the problem of Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons in the Great Lakes Region and the Horn of Africa. In April this year, Kenya hosted the Second Ministerial Review Conference of the Nairobi Declaration, which adopted the Nairobi Protocol on SALW. These efforts are intended to consolidate a regional framework within which to deal with the problem of proliferation in order to improve security to enable the people of the region to redirect their energies and resources towards meaningful economic activities.”
Terrorism: “…Kenya fully supports international efforts in dealing with this problem. Collective efforts to address the issue must be through international cooperation, information and intelligence sharing, coordinated by the United Nations.”
H.E. Mr. Anote Tong, President of the Republic of
September 28, 2004
Nonproliferation and Disarmament: “The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and of illicit trade in small arms and light weapons continue to threaten international security. We must be unified in our approach to addressing these challenges effectively through the strengthening of multilateral disarmament and nonproliferation treaties and agreements and through closer regional international cooperation. Kiribati is supportive of all nonproliferation efforts and in this respect is party to, among others, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty and the Chemical Weapons Convention.”
Security: “The on-going conflict in Iraq and other parts of the world, the scourge of terrorism and the existence of nuclear arsenals, accelerated environmental degradation and the threat of global warming and sea-level rise, hunger and poverty, the HIV/AIDS pandemic and other non-communicable diseases, the marginalization of Least Developed Countries in the global economy and underdevelopment, continue to pose major challenges for our organization today.”
“The adverse impact of climate change and sea-level rise are critical security issues for the global community in this new millennium, and more so, for low-lying island states like Kiribati. The issue must take center stage along with other international security issues. We urge the international community to agree on a unified global response to better protect the environment, in the same way that the international community is being encouraged to respond to terrorism and other threats to global security… Our very existence as a state is at stake…”
“We have demonstrated remarkable solidarity in the fight against global terrorism. Can we not demonstrate the same in the fight against climate change and sea level rise?”
Terrorism: “We commend and support the work of the international community and efforts taken at the national, regional and international levels to respond to the challenges of terrorism, recognizing the need for international solidarity in addressing this increasing global threat.
“Kiribati is committed to the global fight against terrorism… Indeed, as a small island developing state we have little capacity to develop any effective counter measures and therefore especially vulnerable to terrorism.
“We acknowledge the importance of complying with UN Resolutions and international security arrangements that have been adopted in the fight against terrorism. While we cannot afford to be complacent in our efforts in this regard, it must be recognized that the compliance requirements for these resolutions and arrangements do pose enormous challenges for countries such as Kiribati… Having said that I wish to note that, with technical assistance from our development partners, we have made progress in enacting some important legislation relating to terrorism and transnational crime. We expect to make further progress on compliance with the counter terrorism requirements study.”
Lao People's Democratic Republic
H.E. Mr. Somsavat Lengsavad, Deputy Prime Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 27, 2004
Terrorism: “…the Lao PDR reaffirms its position to continue to cooperate with the international community based on the principles of the UN Charter, international law and relevant international Conventions.”
WMD: “Today, weapons of mass destruction, whether chemical, biological or nuclear, all pose major threats to peace and security, at the regional and global levels, and are far from being totally eliminated. Therefore, we should all work collectively to ensure that these inhumane weapons disappear from the face of the earth."
H.E. Dr. Vaira Vike-Freiberga, President of
September 22, 2004
Terrorism: "Frequently countries facing terrorist attacks have been using vastly superior military capabilities to strike hard at real or perceived terrorist targets. Too often, however, these strikes have had an undesirable side-effect of their own: the further wounding and killing of civilians, and the additional destruction of property. Such strikes have done nothing to diminish the deep-seated feelings of resentment by disaffected populations. The events of the past few years, and indeed of the past few decades, point to the stark and sobering reality that the military option alone has not been effective in rooting out terrorism, and that terrorism has not been an effective means for achieving political aspirations."
H.E. Mr. Issam Fares, Deputy Prime Minister of
September 22, 2004
Terrorism: "... we stand today by the side of the United Nations in opposing international terrorism in all its forms. Lebanon had witnessed terrorism on its soil; it was a witness to innocents being kidnapped, tortured, and killed. It knows what terrorism is all about, and from knowledge first hand, it condemns it in strongest terms. We also condemn those who willfully mix between terrorism on the one hand and struggle for national liberation on the other.
"There are those who exploit the universal revulsion against terrorism to smear national liberation movements by branding these movements as terrorists. National liberation is legitimate, terrorism is reprehensible."
Rt. Hon. Pakalitha B. Mosisili, MP, Prime Minister of
September 23, 2004
Terrorism: "It is common knowledge that the root cause of the world's insecurity today is international terrorism and armed conflicts. Terrorist actions continue to haunt and shock us ..."
"(A) pragmatic solution may be found, we submit, in the answer to the question: 'what is it that drives an inherently good human being to commit such inhuman and senseless acts of state terrorism, organizational terrorism or individual terrorism'? In short, we must confront the causes of terrorism in all honesty and without malice to anybody."
H.E. C. Gyude Bryant, Chairman of National Transitional Government of
September 22, 2004
DDR: "At the beginning of the United Nations Mission in October 2003, we estimated that some 38,000 combatants would have submitted themselves to the disarmament and demobilization program. Today, 73,600 fighters have been disarmed. Over 22,000 pieces of serviceable weapons of all kinds have been surrendered and decommissioned; and more than 5 million rounds of ammunition collected and destroyed by UNMIL.
"Meanwhile, the high number of combatants disarmed and demobilized has overwhelmed our capacity to rehabilitate and reintegrate them. The absence of social infrastructures exacerbates the situation. War-related damage to the national infrastructures and community facilities is extensive. Without exception, all communities have lost their capacity to accommodate and support even the slightest caseload of returnees."
Terrorism: "The threat posed by global terrorism combined with widespread poverty, especially in developing countries, constitute real barriers to the attainment of the Millenium Goal."
H.E. Dr. Ernst Walch, Minister for Foreign Affairs of
September 24, 2004
no references to disarmament, security, terrorism etc.
H.E. Mr. Abdurrahman Mohamed Shalghem, Secretary of the General People’s Committee for Foreign Liaison and International Cooperation
September 29, 2004
Security: "Col. Muammar Ghaddafi presented a proposal to world leaders which they all approve. This proposal calls for the establishment of a Committee of Wise Men whose membership would consist of Presidents Nelson Mandela, Mikhail Gorbachev and Bill Clinton to serve as authority to resolve conflicts in our world. The United Nations should pass a resolution in support of this proposal."
Terrorism: “All of us must continue combating terrorism. If we want to eliminate terrorism, we must eliminate its causes and not simply pursue its operations.
WMD: “As the 60th Session of the General Assembly draws closer, Libya is presenting a unique, bold and strong initiative involving the elimination of its programs of weapons of mass destruction, chemical and nuclear weapons, and handing over of such equipment to the International Atomic Energy Agency.”
H.E. Mr. Valdas Adamkus, President of
September 22, 2004
Security: "As the nature of threats before us is changing and new responses are needed, it is high time to agree on future policies and principles. Today we need to build a shared understanding of the nature of modern threats to international peace and security. Much depends on the ability of the United Nations- that is, on us- to reach a new consensus on collective security. Our strength lies in our resolve to deal collectively with major challenges to peace, security, and sustainable development."
"Without peace there is no development. Without development there is no peace. This recognized linkage of security and development should be better reflected on our global agenda."
WMD: "International community is vulnerable to the dangers posed by the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, international organized crime, the spread of highly dangerous diseases such as HIV/AIDS, or environmental degredation. Our common efforts against these and other threats must be universal, consistent, systematic and unwavering."
H.E. Mr. Branko Crvenkovski, President of
September 24, 2004
Landmines: “We expect from the first Review Conference of the member countries of the Ottawa Convention that will be held in Nairobi, to see a summary of results related to the implementation of this extremely important instrument that will pave the way to the creation of a world free of landmines. The Republic of Macedonia destroyed the mine stockpiles and is working on the demining of affected regions. UNMAS together with ITF helped a lot in these demining activities.”
Proliferation: “The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction remains one of the major threats pending over global peace and security and is closely related to terrorism. We welcome the adoption of resolution 1540 on the Non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction by the UN Security Council, whose implementation supplements the existing complex set of instruments and consolidates the role of the Security Council in this area.”
SALW: “The suppression of illicit trade in small arms and light weapons and full prohibition of anti-infantry mines is also a very important issue, due to the size of the problem and the number of victims they cause. Such activities will immensely contribute to conflict prevention and successful peace keeping and peace building throughout the world, including our region. At the end of last year the Republic of Macedonia conducted a successful action of collecting small arms and light weapons. The action was supported by the UNDP and the activities in this field are on-going.”
Terrorism: “In order to enhance the capacity of the international community (to deal with terrorism), we need a further consolidation of the global anti-terrorist coalition led by the UN and additionally strengthen the cooperation with the regional organizations which have specific mechanisms to fight this global evil.
“The Republic of Macedonia will pursue its active cooperation with the Counter Terrorism Committee of the Security Council and give its own contribution to the implementation of the Security Council resolution 1373.
“In this respect, I would like to inform that last May the Republic of Macedonia ratified the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism and the International Convention for the suppression of terrorist bombing."
H.E. Dr. Bingu Wa Mutharika, President of
September 22, 2004
Security: "One can hardly emphasize enough that without global peace, there cannot be global prosperity. In this regard, I am pleased to note that international peace and security has always remained high on the agenda of this August Assembly."
H.E. Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Prime Minister of Malaysia
September 27, 2004
Multilateralism: “I strongly believe that multilateralism is the only way to implement resolutions and decisions concerning global peace and security. Adherence to the Charter of the United Nations should be a solemn obligation, not a matter of choice.”
“A sincere commitment to multilateralism on the part of the big powers will send a strong signal to all nations, large and small, that the purposes and principles of the United Nations shall form the basis of the conduct of relations between nations… Of course, multilateralism can only be sustained if it embraces all nations as important stake-holders and excludes none.”
Peaceful (sic) Uses: “We also note with great concern the increasing tendencies to link the fight against terrorism with the campaign against proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Developing countries suffer as a result of restrictions imposed on access to peaceful uses of technology, equipment and material necessary for their economic development. Malaysia is fully and firmly committed to the cause of nonproliferation. But there must be multilateral negotiations for universal, comprehensive and non-discriminatory agreements and arrangements. Above all, nothing should be done at the expense of resources needed for the international development agenda.”
Terrorism: “Malaysia is convinced that the fight against terrorism cannot succeed through the force of arms alone. To win it, we need to exert genuine efforts and demonstrate good faith to address the root causes of terrorism, one of the most obvious of which is the unaccomplished missions of peoples struggling for independence and aspiring for sovereign states of their own. To find answers, we must promote genuine dialogue and rid ourselves of the prejudices and bigotry triggered by September 11, which were further aggravated by subsequent events that followed September 11…
“The United Nations can facilitate the convening of a special international conference to consider this question in all its aspects, including the root causes of terrorism and the issue of state-sponsored terrorism.”
H.E. Mr. Fathulla Jameel, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 30, 2004
Disarmament: “The disappointing impasse on global disarmament and the dreadful odds of further proliferation of weapons of mass destruction make the world ill at ease, and lose hope for a peaceful world.”
Security: “We, in the small states, feel more vulnerable to these challenges and threats, as our security is entirely dependent on the prevalence of global security and the observance of the rule of law by all states. Clearly the concerns of small states cannot only be confined to the issues of environment, climate change, sea level rise and sustainable development. The ominous threats that are emerging on the political and security fronts of the contemporary world have far reaching implications on us as well.”
Terrorism: “Not too infrequently we witness small states victimized by non-state actors such as terrorists, mercenaries, insurrectionary gangs and organized crime networks, whose measured assaults disrupt socio-economic and political development of small states, endangering peace and security. It would be imprudent to relegate the wider implications of the presence and activities of such perilous actors on international peace and security. Solutions to them could only be sought through international cooperation, vigilance and action.”
“My government believes that early adoption of the proposed international convention on terrorism would be a crucial step in effectively combating this dreadful menace.”
Hon. Dr. Lawrence Gonzi, Prime Minister of
September 23, 2004
Terrorism: "The fight against terrorism involves all of us and needs to be pursued with firmness and tenacity... As the Secretary-General takes every opportunity to remind us, this struggle must not take place at the expense of the fundamental freedoms and the basic dignity of individuals. Neither must we allow the legitimate concern to eradicate terrorism in all its aspects to distract the commitment of the global community in its endeavor towards the economic and social development of the less advantaged regions of the world."
Treaty verification: "The continuing commitment to the major multilateral treaties and increased efforts to intensify measures of verification and compliance are of paramount importance in this regard. Equally important is the need to bring the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty into force without further delay."
WMD: "Problems relating to the development of weapons of mass destruction still exist in other regions of the world. The role which initiatives encouraging regional stability and economic and social development can play in the resolution of these problems should not be underestimated.
"It is also necessary to look at the problems raised by the threat of new weapons of mass destruction as part of the wider issue of disarmament in its many aspects.
WMD and Terrorism: "The problem of proliferation of weapons, especially weapons of mass destruction, has in our day assumed a new and frightening dimension in its possible linkage with terrorism. In this regard, as the Secretary General points out, the effective implementation of Security Council Resolution 1540 adopted earlier this year should complement ongoing efforts to strengthen existing multilateral and non-proliferation regimes."
H.E. Mr. Kessai H. Note, President of
September 22, 2004
Disarmament and nonproliferation: "On broader issues of disarmament and nonproliferation, we urge the international community to retain a focus on disarmament by the nuclear weapon States, as well as non-proliferation measures. We look forward to next year's Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and we hope that the Conference will produce substantial progress on the Thirteen Steps towards complete nuclear disarmament."
Nuclear testing: "An ongoing issue of the utmost concern for the people of the Marshall Islands is that of nuclear weapons testing. Between 1946 and 1958, the United States conducted a series of nuclear tests in the Marshall Islands, which included the detonation of 23 atomic and hydrogen bombs. On March 1st this year, we commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Bravo test at Bikini Atoll. The Bravo blast was 1,000 times more powerful than Hiroshima, and its fallout spread radioactive debris across the neighboring islands.
"Today, many of our people continue to suffer from long term health effects, while others remain displaced from their homes because of ongoing contamination. We urge the United States government to fully address the issue of adequate compensation for populations affected by the nuclear testing program, and to fulfill its responsibilities for thesafe resettlement of displaced populations."
Terrorism: "International terrorism is obviously one of the biggest challenges facing the global community today. The reality is that no State or region is immune. All States must take action at the national level as well as cooperating at the regional and international levels to ensure that we combat terrorist threats with comprehensive and unified action."
Hon. Jaya Krishna Cuttaree, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade and Regional Cooperation of the Republic of
September 28, 2004
Disarmament: “Notwithstanding the potential threat posed by nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction, it is a matter of serious concern that we still have not been able to find common ground to initiate a process leading to complete disarmament.”
“Mauritius support and implements fully the international disarmament treaties such as the Chemical Weapons Convention, the Biological Toxin Weapons Convention and has always supported various UN resolutions which tend to consolidate these regimes, including Resolution 1540 which focuses on non-proliferation issues.”
NPT: “Significant differences still persist among Parties to the Non-Proliferation Treaty. We once again appeal to all Member States to translate their stated commitments to the cause of disarmament into action.”
Security: “The African Union has amply demonstrated that it means business in addressing the issue of conflicts on the continent and any assistance it gets from the international community can only help it achieve its goals. But let me hasten to say that the African Union’s involvement in these peace processes should not distract the UN Security Council from its primary responsibility to maintain peace and security in Africa. Indeed, the Security Council should not allow itself to be perceived as being selective in its approach with regard to conflicts in various parts of the world.”
SALW: “Along with our fight against weapons of mass destruction, we should also stay the course against the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons which have been the weapons of choice in recent conflicts, particularly in Africa.”
Terrorism: “We should reflect on the effectiveness of the international response against terrorism. It is becoming increasingly evident that the war against international terrorism cannot be won by military might alone. Several reports of this august Assembly have already amply demonstrated that woes such as poverty, social inequality, unemployment and illiteracy constitute breeding grounds for terrorism. Genuine international cooperation is needed to comprehensively address the root causes of terrorism.”
H.E. Dr. Luis Ernesto Derbez, Minister of Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004
Multilateralism: “In light of the scope of the challenge of the reform that we have ahead, Mexico would favor calling for a general conference with the aim of updating and strengthening our Organization… The changes that have taken place in the world in that period demand a comprehensive exercise that should encompass the renewal of our commitments, and the review of the structure and the performance of the collective security and development system.”
“… as an unequivocal sign of our interest, our concerns and our commitment, Mexico decisively promotes the renovation of the multilateral system, through the Group of Friends at the United Nations Reform.”
Terrorism and WMD: “… we should recognize that the UN has already taken some actions as first steps in the right direction. This has been done particularly in the fight against terrorism and the nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction. It will be necessary to take these actions further.
“In this context, Mexico is ready to continue working with the institutional structures of the Organization, particularly the Counter Terrorism Committee and the newly established Committee on nonproliferation. We will continue to promote the protection of Human Rights and fundamental freedoms in the fight against terrorism, as the only way to guarantee the legitimacy and efficacy of that fight. We will also follow closely the cooperation initiatives and regimes that are geared to control the supply of nuclear materials; and we will insist in gathering new momentum on the efforts in the urgent cause of disarmament.”
Hon. Sebastian L. Anefal, Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs
September 29, 2004
Nuclear testing: “As neighbors and fellow islanders, we have saddened by the inability of the people of the Republic of Marshall Islands, after almost fifty years, to secure full compensation for the death, sickness and destruction suffered by them as a consequence of nuclear weapons testing. Recently declassified documents make it clear that original settlements were not based on the full story of what happened to the Marshallese people and other peoples of the former Trust Territory as well. We join other Members in calling upon the United States to meet its responsibility in full.”
Terrorism: “…a common concern that amidst all the current attention to global security issues the nations of the Pacific Islands are being left largely to our own devices to deal with threats related to organized crime and terrorism. We are working hard to address our vulnerabilities in these regards, but I would like simply to note that the rest of the world, especially the North, is not serving its own best interests by giving short shrift to the possibilities for criminal and terrorist exploitation that are presented by our vast region. Over and above other traditional ODA, we need a range of targeted assistance in our area.”
“Even if we summon up the will to act collectively to put down the darker side of human nature through collective action, we must work much harder and on a global scale to move toward eliminating the conditions that provide fertile ground in which the sponsors of terrorism and genocide are able to prosper. These include conditions of poverty, hunger, and inadequate access to clean water, sanitation, health care and education.”
H.E. Mr. Andrei Stratan, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004
Arms and transparency: “This region remains an area of illegal production and trafficking of arms. Given the ‘transparency’ of the Transnistrian section of the Moldovan-Ukrainian border there are no guarantees that the illegally produced or trafficked armaments will not reach in the future other conflicts zones.”
Security: “Over the years, the Republic of Moldova has systematically informed relevant international organizations on the danger the persistency of the political conflict in its eastern region poses to regional and international peace and security.”
“We are determined to make full use of the opportunities provided by the recent EU enlargement to promote stability, security and well-being.”
Terrorism: “The Republic of Moldova fully supports the current efforts oriented towards conclusion of a Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism as well as of a Comprehensive International Convention on International Terrorism.”
“We cannot expect realistically to win the war against international terrorism as long as the regional and internal conflicts remain unsolved and their root causes are not properly
addressed.”
“Recently terrorism has been increasingly merging with separatism.”
WMD: “There is also the risk that non-State actors might one day acquire weapons of mass destruction, a threat explicitly recognized by the Security Council when it adopted the resolution 1540.”
“The United Nations must be capable of responding effectively to these and other challenges, such as the eradication of poverty, the promotion of sustainable development, the protection of environment, the respect of human rights, the control of epidemics and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. We need an efficient and relevant organization, able to deal with the modern threats.”
H.E. Prince Albert, Hereditary Prince of
September 23, 2004
Multilateralism: "The attachment to democracy and to the rule of law, the complete trust we place in the values of multilateralism, and the respect of our differences allow us to move forward to with harmony and constantly adapt our Organization in the face of the challenges of our time. We must give our Organization the means to better respond to the expectations of the Peoples of our world."
Terrorism: "Unfortunately, terrorism has now become a day-to-day reality... Our determination to combat it must remain without breach. We therefore welcome the creation of an Executive Direction of the Committee against Terrorism."
"Monaco has become a Party to all twelve Conventions that curtail international terrorism and taken appropriate actions in its domestic laws."
H.E. Mr. R. Altangerel, State Secretary for Foreign Affairs of
September 27, 2004
CTBT: “(The CTBT), once in force, would greatly contribute to the prevention of horizontal and vertical proliferation of nuclear weapons, and the dangers posed by their possible acquisition by non-state actors.”
Disarmament: “Indeed, strengthening international peace and security, supporting practical disarmament measures in every possible way has been one of the main priorities of Mongolia’s foreign policy. We firmly believe that disarmament efforts should equally focus on state-and-people-centered dimensions.”
Landmines and SALW: “The global landmine ban campaign and efforts to curb illicit trade in small arms and light weapons have immediate bearing on human security, social and economic development around the world.”
Nonproliferation: “Mongolia welcomes the UNSC resolution 1540 (2004) adopted unanimously under Chapter VII of the UN Charter as a meaningful step toward curbing the WMD proliferation, yet we also believe that a correspondingly significant step out to be made in nuclear disarmament- the early entry into force and universalization of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty as a first priority.”
NPT: “As a strong advocate of WMD disarmament, and particularly nuclear disarmament, Mongolia believes that the full and effective implementation of the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons on the part of both the nuclear and non-nuclear countries has a pivotal role in promoting international peace and nuclear security.”
NWFZ: “The Korean nuclear crisis and the resulting tensions on the Korean peninsula cast dark clouds over the entire Northeast Asia. Being a Northeast Asian nation with a nuclear-weapon-free status, Mongolia stands for a nuclear-weapon-free Korean Peninsula, and sees it as an important condition leading to the reconciliation of both Koreas, therefore, to peace and stability in the region.”
“Establishment of new and consolidation of existing nuclear-weapon-free-zones should remain high on the international agenda. My Government will continue its efforts towards institutionalizing its nuclear-weapon-free-status at the international level. Mongolia’s internationally recognized and legally-binding nuclear-weapon-free status could further contribute towards ensuring peace and stability in the region of Northeast Asia and beyond.”
Terrorism: “Mongolia supports the efforts of the CTC aimed at its revitalization, and is looking forward to seeing the Counter Terrorism Executive Directorate in operation. We also attach importance to speedy finalization of drafting international conventions on terrorism and nuclear terrorism.
“No matter how pressing is the fight against terror, it should not overshadow other issues that impact daily lives of millions of people- from extreme poverty and hunger to environmental degradation and HIV/AIDS, to health and schooling.”
H.M. Mohammed VI, King of
September 21, 2004
Multilateralism: "To meet the challenges at this turning point in history, the international community has no alternative but to revitalize the current multilateral system...
"...I am convinced the United Nations Organization, which has helped solve countless crises, is perfectly capable of managing the current international situation, in a peaceful and civilized way, by revitalizing the multilateral system. Such an objective, however, can only be achieved if... its working methods and its organs- including the Security Council- are reformed and invigorated."
H.E. Mr. Joaquim Alberto Chissano, President of
September 21, 2004
DDR: "The issue of disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) is of crucial importance, or if left unattended or incomplete can constitute a source of instability, as we have witnessed in some peacekeeping operations."
Multilateralism: "The success of the on-going reforms should be measured against an effective improvement of the global governance and strengthening of multilateralism, with the General Assembly assuming a central role in the conduct of global issues.
"A strong United Nations should stand on the pillars of real multilateralism, where each country can have a say on global issues. Failure to cater to the interests and aspirations of the majority of its member states will only result in the marginalization of the UN."
H.E. U Tin Winn, Minister, Office of the Prime Minister and Chairman of the Delegation of the Union of
September 29, 2004
Terrorism: “Myanmar is doing its utmost to combat this menace at the national, regional and international levels. It was among the first countries to submit a report to the United Nations Counter Terrorism Committee, pursuant to Security Council resolution 1373 and has since submitted its third report. It has signed and acceded to eleven of the twelve international legal instruments related to the suppression of terrorism. It is also actively involved in the Bali Process to combat transnational crime, including international terrorism.”
H.E. Mr. Sam Nujoma
September 22, 2004
Arms Expenditures: “We must insist, in this process of dialogue, on a realistic balance between the total world spending on war and weapons technology, on the one hand, and the implementation of the Millennium Development Goals and Targets, on the other.”
Security: “Mercenaries are amassing arms and launching military offensives against
legitimate governments to support companies who scramble for oil, gas, diamonds and other world's precious resources.”
“The global security situation has also been worsened by the emergence of mercenaries and private armies which have now become the world's biggest political challenge.”
“We must stop the looming catastrophe and suffering. Instead, we must promote human security and prosperity for all.”
Proliferation: “Regrettably, there is widespread distrust and the danger of nuclear proliferation makes the situation even more alarming for everybody.”
Terrorism: “Whether fighting poverty, HIV/AIDS or terrorism, the international community must act as one.”
H.E. Mr. Vinci Niel Clodumar, Chairman of the Delegation
September 29, 2004
Security: “Issues such as climate change, peace and security, economic and social development of its peoples and the protection of and sustainable use of the environment and the natural resources are still the priority of the (Pacific Islands) Forum.”
“…the intervention by the Pacific Islands Forum is seen as pre-empting the possibility of the economic crisis escalating into a security and safety issue for the Nauruan people and the region.”
NPT: “To conclude, Mr. President, the 59th session has critical work ahead of it such as the International Meeting for the 10 year review of the Barbados Plan of Action, the tabling of and deliberation on the finding of the High Level Panel constituted by the Secretary General, the review of the Nuclear Non- Proliferation Treaty, the preparations for the 5 year review of the Millennium Declarations and its Goals, and the continuation of our deliberations on the revitalization of the General Assembly and of the reform of the Security Council just to name a few.”
Terrorism: “Armed conflicts and acts of terrorism continue to perpetrate the violation of human rights and humanitarian norms. Atrocious acts of terrorism against innocent civilians particularly women and children continue to puncture the fabric of civility and moral values that each and every society on this planet is founded on.”
Multilateralism: “Mr. President we congratulate the Secretary General for his continued commitment to multilateralism as means of resolving our common problems and for the report on the work of the Organization (N5911) for the past 12 months. However, it is discouraging to note that peacekeeping activities had increased rather than decreased.”
“Nauru continues to believe that multilateralism is the key to resolving contemporary problems in all of their Statement at the General Debate of the 59th UNGA Republic of Nauru complexities.”
“The next 12 months will determine if we the United Nations of the world continued
on the road where "business as usual" is the mode of operation or followed the road of multilateralism as the principle rule of our engagement The statements so far indicate the latter, but we have heard this before!”
H.E. Mr. Prakash Sharan Mahat, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004
CD: “It is sad that the Conference on Disarmament has no program of work for the last several years. The body must be allowed to work on a coherent strategy leading to the complete elimination of nuclear weapons in a time bound manner.”
Disarmament: “It is our firm belief that the international community should look beyond the immediate conflicts and seek to build a strong foundation for durable peace by pursuing disarmament, development and the rule of law.”
“Regional centers for peace and disarmament are instrumental in building confidence among nations. Nepal is eager to relocate to Kathmandu the Regional Center for Peace and Disarmament for Asia and the Pacific at the earliest. We are prepared to sign the necessary agreements consistent with the prevailing diplomatic practices and provisions of the other two regional Centers.”
“Nepal is deeply concerned by the set back in the disarmament realm. Of course, the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is very important to keep such weapons from rouge elements, no durable peace will be possible without concerted efforts to disarmament, particularly of nuclear weapons, as they are the greatest threat to human civilization.”
NWFZ, including outer space: “We reiterate our support to nuclear weapons free zones and keeping the outer space free of such weapons.”
Security: “Indeed, the United Nations embodies the shared dream and hope of the entire humanity for peace, security and development. Nepal has abiding faith in the principles and objectives enshrined in the United Nations Charter.”
“International peace and security will continue to elude us until we address the root causes of conflicts: namely, poverty, ignorance, disease, exclusion and injustice.”
“…the Government has the obligation to protect the lives of people and to safeguard private property and public infrastructure, by strengthening security.”
SALW: “The international community should also work together to strengthen controls over the small arms and light weapons to prevent their abuse by non-state actors.”
Terrorism: “Internal conflicts have proliferated and populations have been displaced; international terrorism has increased;
“…and injustice have persisted and even worsened for the majority of humanity; and transnational crimes have spread their wings.”
“Terrorism has become a global menace casting a dark shadow over the lives of millions of peoples around the globe.”
Weapons: “Deadly weapons pose a constant threat to the safety of human beings and the existence of human civilization.”
H.E. Dr. Bernard Bot, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
September 21, 2004
Missiles: "With others, the EU will also explore the possibility of establishing a relationship between the United Nations and the Hague Code of Conduct on Ballistic Missile Proliferation."
Proliferation of WMD: "One of the greatest threats to international peace and security today is the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery. The international community must effectively address this challenge.
"...International treaty regimes and export control arrangements are in place to prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems. These instruments, however, have not succeeded in putting a complete stop to proliferation. Additional measures are necessary, in particular to combat the risk of terrorist organizations gaining access to those weapons and delivery systems. In this context, the EU welcomes the adoption of Security Council Resolution 1540, which is fully in line with the EU strategy."
Terrorism: "Terrorism is another threat that can be dealt with only by effective multilateralism and close international cooperation."
H.E. Mr. Phil Goff, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of
September 2004
Disarmament (Small Arms): “In the Solomon Islands, the intervention of the Regional Assistance Mission has restored the rule of law by its elected government in place of the anarchy created by armed militias. Over 3,500 weapons have been collected and destroyed, social services and a credible budgetary progress restored and militiamen and corrupt elements from police and government arrested."
Security: “While the High Level Panel will focus on reform of the UN and security considerations, development goals to create a fairer world and promote economic and social progress in the developing world are further vital considerations for the UN in the year ahead.”
“For hundreds of millions of people starvation, disease, and poverty are more immediate threats than the concerns others of us have about terrorism and security.”
“The United Nations must also adapt itself to the changing nature of security and humanitarian concerns. The concept that national sovereignty is paramount and
stands in the way of international intervention in local conflicts cannot be sustained.”
WMD: “Weapons of mass destruction have accumulated and access to them spread to more countries.”
Terrorism: “However attempts to suppress terrorism by force will not by themselves be enough unless we also address the causes which drive people to support, finance or be recruited into terrorism.”
“In that regard, no action will be more important to the undermining of terrorism today than finding a just and sustainable solution to the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian people.”
H.E. Enrique Bolaños Geyer, President of
September 22, 2004
H.E. Mr. Olusegun Obasanjo, President of
September 23, 2004
Security: “Our quest for global peace and security will prove unsuccessful unless we intensify international cooperation for development and the reduction of poverty.”
SALW: “While the United Nations is justifiably seized with the issue of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD), such as nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, the question of Small Arms and light Weapons (SALW) can no longer be ignored.”
“While the threat of Weapons of Mass Destruction is awesome, small arms and light weapons are killing people every day at a rate cumulatively amounting to monumental destruction.”
“Nigeria and the African Union welcome the commencement of negotiations for an international legally binding instrument to enable States identify and trace illicit small arms and light weapons globally.”
Transparency: “To demonstrate our commitment to the principle of good governance, transparency and the rule of law, 23 African countries have already subscribed to the Peer Review Mechanism.”
H.E. Mr. Jan Pertersen, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004
Security: “The UN needs to take earlier and more co-ordinated action as threats to peace and security emerge.”
“The Summit in 2005 should also focus on international efforts to promote peace-building, reconciliation, global security and respect for human rights. We must take decisive steps during the next General Assembly to meet development targets and create a safer and more peaceful world.”
Terrorism: “Terrorism is not a new threat. But the scale and brutality of recent terrorist operations have altered our lives and our thinking and have forced us to take new measures to protect ourselves against this threat. Terrorism can strike anywhere and any time, but it strikes harder and more often in developing countries. Terrorism is a threat to our security; it creates fear and want, and severely hampers economic and social development. No cause, however legitimate, can justify acts of terrorism.”
H.E. Mr Yousef bin Alawi bin Abdullah, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 27, 2004
Disarmament treaties: “the Sultanate of Oman has signed most conventions on disarmament and arms control, including the Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT), the Convention on the prohibition of chemical weapons, and the Convention on the prohibition of biological weapons.”
“The Sultanate believes that accession by States to disarmament treaties and conventions would enhance and maintain international peace and security.”
Terrorism: “The convening of an international conference to consider these terrorist phenomena is a good idea since the results of the work of such a conference could be an important tool that would help defeat terrorism.”
WMD: “The world stock of weapons of mass destruction and in particular nuclear weapons runs the risk of destroying human life on our planet many times over.”
General Pervez Musharraf, President of
September 22, 2004
Confidence Building: “After several aborted attempts, Pakistan and India have been able to initiate Confidence Building Measures (CBMs)and a composite dialogue this year to address all outstanding issues.”
Disarmament and Multilateralism: “Today, there is welcome resurgence of support for multilateralism. This must be a multilateralism based on the principles of the UN Charter, a cooperative and democratic multilateralism. It must seek just, peaceful and durable solutions to conflicts and disputes. It must promote a programme for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.”
Proliferation: “The growing asymmetries in power among States, discrimination in the dispensation of international justice, repression of peoples' legitimate aspirations, and growing socio-economic disparities, have precipitated ‘new threats’ to international peace and security: The threat of terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and imploding States.”
Terrorism: “Terrorism poses the most urgent threat to many countries, including the most powerful States. For many of us, the terrorist threat is close and personal. Terrorism threatens Pakistan's vital national interests and objectives.”
“The global cooperation against Terrorism has been highly successful. Determined and collective action has contained and disrupted the violent agendas of the terrorists.”
“I had proposed the two pronged strategy of Enlightened Moderation to overcome terrorism and prevent a clash of civilizations.”
H.E. Mrs. Sandra Pierantozzi, Vice-President and Minister of Health of the Republic of Palau
September 23, 2004
Security: “We agree with His Excellency, the Secretary- General, who observed in his opening remarks to the UN Meeting of the Commission on Sustainable Development that 'high-level political attention has been diverted from sustainable development by the recent emphasis given to terrorism, weapons of mass destruction and the war in Iraq.'"
Terrorism: “But Palau also understands that the scourge of global terrorism and its immoral violence against innocents must be defeated.”
“Coalition forces in Iraq paid the ultimate price, marking the first death of a Palauan in the struggle with global terrorism.”
H.E. Mr. Farouk Kaddoumi, Chairman of the Observer Delegation
September 28, 2004
Nuclear weapons: “Israel is the only nuclear power in the Middle East. It is about the fourth strongest army in the world, is a war sophisticated arms developer and dealer with no ethical or moral constraints and with no human rights concerns. The Israeli government can therefore do anything it wants, acting like a high tech military-expert rogue state which has become tremendously useful for the United States since it has located itself strategically right in the centre of the global arms industry.”
Terrorism: “Acts of state-terrorism was Israel's response to the performance- based Roadmap. And to be more precise the 2000 pound bomb was dropped after the Palestinians have scrupulously observed an unannounced cease-fire.”
H.E. The Right Honourable Sir Rabbie Namaliu, MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004
Security: “We continue to be concerned about the security and vulnerability of many of our small island states.”
“Papua New Guinea concurs with the UN Secretary-General, Mr. Kofi Annan's recent statement to this august Assembly that highlighted the importance of the rule of law to prevail if we are to achieve peace and security in our world.”
SALW: “Small arms and light weapons will always threaten the stability of many small states. Therefore we look forward to the continuing work for a UN supported Action Plan for dealing with small arms.”
Terrorism: “The world continues to witness great leaps in technology but at the same time we also have seen some of the global dilemmas such as poverty and hunger, the ravages of HIV/AIDS, wars, conflicts and terrorism, amongst others.”
“Like many other member states, Papua New Guinea has acceded to the various counter terrorism treaties pursuant to UN Security Council Resolution '1373.”
“We believe that there is every desire to fulfill treaty obligations but if some of the more onerous tasks can be lightened for the small countries through regional reports, bodies like the Counter Terrorism Committee, the Security Council, General Assembly and other related Agencies could be better served.”
“Like many other members states, we take our responsibilities and obligations seriously to fight the scourge of international terrorism and related issues including the trafficking of people.”
H.E. Mr. Nicanor Duarte Frutos, President of
September 22, 2004
no references to disarmament, terrorism, weapons, etc.
H.E. Mr. Alejandro Toledo, President of
September 22, 2004
Arms control: "Region-wide, Peru has also promoted initiatives for peace, security and weapon control. Moreover, my government proposed the Commitment of Lima, one of the most advanced documents on security and disarmament in the region. In this document, Andean countries committed to implement measures to promote trust; to establish standardized methods for measuring their expenses on external defense; to eliminate anti-personnel landmines; to control the proliferation of small arms and to prohibit, within the region, the production, utilization and commercialization of mass-destruction weapons, including those biological and chemical."
Multilateralism: "Let us all strengthen multilateralism. That is, international democracy."
Nuclear dangers: "The present situation takes place in a crisis of multilateralism, in a context where no isolated power can assure global governance, in a world where fragmentation enables nuclear threats."
Terrorism: "Non-state actors, such as terrorist organizations and traffickers of drugs, weapons and people are emerging, acquiring a devastating global power."
H.E. Mr. Alberto Romulo, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 27, 2004
Proliferation: “Terrorism, the spread of weapons of mass destruction and the massive proliferation of small arms, directly threaten the people, their livelihood and are assaults on their dignity.”
Security: “Economic crisis in developing countries bring immediate threats to human security. When people do not know when their next meal will come from or when their crops fail, human security is compromised.”
“The inexorable pace of globalization fuels new phenomena and drives new challenges to human security.”
“…the interdependence and inter-linkages among the peoples of the world require that human security should top the agendas of local, national, regional and global governance.”
Terrorism: “We must allow our peoples to live free from fear, to live in a safe and secure world. Terrorism not only poses a serious threat to the lives of our people, but also to the values and ideals that define their society. Terrorism reduces people to mere pawns in a ruthless game of competing beliefs and ideologies.”
“The Philippines believes that conflicts should be addressed before terrorism can begin to define or exploit the conflict. This can be done by working together with other nations.”
H.E. Mr. Wlodzimierz Cimoszewicz, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004
Proliferation and WMD: “The predictable threats caused in the past by the wars between countries have been replaced by indefinite and unpredictable threats caused by international terrorism, proliferation of WMD, and an increasing number of states in distress, whose governments are unable to exercise effective power over their territory and population.”
“One of the most important issues, in the light of the particularly threatening nexus of terrorism and weapons of mass destruction, is the principle of the non-use of force.”
H.E. Pedro Santana Lopes
September 22, 2004-09-23
Terrorism: “Portugal believes that it is up to the United Nations to contribute also decisively to the establishment of a global strategy against terrorism. A strategy that takes into account not only the obvious security-related responses, but also other elements that may have the potential to generate violence.”
“No cause, no idea, justifies acts of pure barbarism and the spilling of innocent's blood. Terrorism is an enemy of humankind.”
“Let us be unyielding in the fight against terrorism. But let us also engage ourselves in doing it collectively.”
WMD: “Our collective security also implies an effective international control of the production of nuclear, chemical and bacteriological weapons, and the means to deploy them.”
H.E. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani
September 21, 2004
International Peace and Security: “The difficult challenge facing the international community today, in the view of theGroup of 77 and China, is that of maintaining international peace and security while achieving economic welfare and development.”
“The history of international relations over the second half of the last century has shown that it is almost impossible to maintain peace and security as long as the minimum standards of a basic livelihood are lacking. Poverty and destitution have often resulted in tensions that have eventually led to breaches of international peace and security. It is no coincidence that the poorest regions in the world are the ones that have suffered the most complicated regional conflicts.”
NWFZ: “We stress the need to transform the Middle East into a zone free of weapons of mass destruction, without any exception, in order to achieve the security and peace that would serve the interest and welfare of all its peoples.”
H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade
September 24, 2004
Energy and Non-proliferation: “Renewing and reaffirming our commitment to nuclear non proliferation peaceful use of nuclear energy, the government of the Republic of Korea pronounced Four Principles for the Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy" on 18 September 2004.”
“Given such a solid commitment on our part, my government reported the recent discoveries about the past scientific experiments involving nuclear materials in my country pursuant to the Additional Protocol to the Safeguards Agreement with IAEA. The experiments were isolated, laboratory-scale research activities that a few scientists conducted on their own for purely experimental purposes.”
“First, the Republic of Korea reaffirms that it has no intention of developing or possessing nuclear weapons; Second, the Republic of Korea will firmly maintain nuclear transparency, and will strengthen our cooperation with the international community to this end;
“…on the basis of international trust and with the highest level of transparency, the Republic of Korea will continue to expand the peaceful use of nuclear energy.”
Missiles: “…we will also host the Plenary Meeting of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) in Seoul next month.”
Nonproliferation: “The Republic of Korea has actively participated in the efforts of the international community in the non-proliferation field.”
“The Republic of Korea firmly believes that the expeditious resolution of the North Korean nuclear issue is in the best interests of all the participating parties to the Six-Party Talks, including the DPRK. The resolution of this issue will certainly have a positive impact on the global nuclear non-proliferation regime.”
“Upon the resolution of the nuclear issue, North Korea would indeed be able to become a MI-fledged member of the international community, enabling it to gain all the accompanying benefits.”
“While seeking a peaceful resolution of the North Korean nuclear issue, the Korean Government is working hard to ensure the steady improvement of inter-Korean relations.”
NPT: “The Republic of Korea firmly believes that the expeditious resolution of the North Korean nuclear issue is in the best interests of all the participating parties to the Six-Party Talks, including the DPRK. The resolution of this issue will certainly have a positive impact on the global nuclear non-proliferation regime.”
Non-proliferation and Terrorism: “Terrorism lends renewed urgency to our common endeavors to halt the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery. In particular, the revelations about a nuclear black market network in Asia this year have awakened the international community to the danger of nuclear weapons falling into terrorist hands. Faced with this new kind of threat to nuclear nonproliferation, the international community must work to close the loopholes in the existing nonproliferation regime. Against this backdrop, my government strongly supports Resolution 1540 on Non-Proliferation adopted by the Security Council in April of this year.”
“Terrorism lends renewed urgency to our common endeavors to halt the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery.”
Terrorism: “The fight against terrorism calls for unity in the international community with the
United Nations at the lead, as well as enhanced abilities in each individual member state to combat terrorism”
Transparency: “…my government will host next year in Seoul the "Sixth Global Forum on Reinventing Government" in cooperation with the United Nations.
“…this Forum will serve as a useful venue for the exchange of experience in government innovations aimed at enhancing participation and transparency in governance.”
WMD: “In June, we joined the ‘G-8 Global Partnership Against Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction’ in order to support joint forces to stem the spread of deadly arsenals.”
H.E. MR. Ion Iliescu
September 22, 2004
Proliferation: “My country is definitely for a concerted action against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.”
Transparency: “Romania fully supports the reform of the Security Council, both from the perspective of improving the working methods and the transparency, and from the perspective of expanding and adjusting the decision-making mechanisms.”
H.E., Mr. Sergey Lavrov, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 23, 2004
Nonproliferation: “Our country became one of the sponsors of Security Council Resolution 1540, takes part in the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) and co-sponsors the G8 Action Plan on Non-Proliferation.”
“These initiatives are complementary and should increase the effectiveness of the WMD non-proliferation regimes, which seems to be especially relevant on the eve of the 2005 NPT Review Conference.”
Outer space: “It also includes maintaining environmental security, and I would therefore like to confirm that in accordance with the decision of President Vladimir V. Putin we are seriously considering the ratification of the Kyoto Protocol. And one of our tasks is to prevent outer space from becoming the scene of an armed confrontation.
“…a need is arising to elaborate a U.N. convention on international outer space law.”
Security: “The global nature of the terrorist threat testifies that security in today's world is indivisible. Consequently, we must bear collective responsibility for making the world secure.”
“The Commonwealth of Independent States Summit that was held recently in
Astana confirmed a high potential of regional structures within the CIS in every area, from anti-terrorist activities and collective security to reinforcing economic integration.”
“The U.N. should equally give close attention to other global threats to security and sustainable development.”
“On Russia's initiative, the U.N. General Assembly at its 57th and 58th sessions adopted resolutions on the elaboration under the U.N. aegis of a global strategy to counter new challenges and threats. They contained specific guidelines for bringing the international community closer to a new security model that would reflect the nature of global challenges of the 21st century.”
“The world community goes through a difficult period of establishing a new system of international relations…unsolved problems and new dangerous challenges to the security and development of mankind are growing in number.”
Terrorism: “I am also addressing you in a moment of truth, when nobody can raise any doubt as to the true nature of international terrorism and the challenge it has posed to the world community.”
“We must enter a crucially new stage in the activities of the anti-terrorist coalition. The meeting of the U.N. Security Council of September 1 demonstrated a strong determination of the world community to continue its fight against terrorism in a consistent way.”
“The fight against terrorism should unite States rather than oppose them to each other.”
“This framework has been laid down in Resolution 1373 of the Security Council and its subsequent decisions. However, additional efforts are needed at this point. They include making necessary amendments to the national legislation, acceding to international anti-terrorist conventions and finalizing new international legal counter-terrorism instruments.”
“In the circumstances, when international terrorism launched war on our entire civilization, a particular focus is placed on the determination of States to use their right for self-defense in conformity with Article 51 of the U.N. Charter.”
“International law is clearly not an inalterable dogma. The fight against terrorism calls for its development and improvement.”
“Russia believes that the United Nations should continue to play a central role in uniting efforts of the international community in its fight against terrorism.”
WMD: “The atrocity of the recent terrorist attacks proves the need to ensure reliable safeguards against terrorists gaining access to the weapons of mass destruction. Russia is prepared to the closest international partnership in this area.”