UNGA Disarmament Index 2004: S–Z
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.
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
H.E. The Honourable Timothy Harris, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Education
September 28, 2004
Terrorism: “Mr. President, pragmatic and productive partnerships are the most effective vehicle available to the international community to tackle effectively the multitude of problems we face. We speak of important issues such as democracy, globalization, terrorism, poverty eradication, human development and the spread of infectious disease as if they are completely disconnected.”
“We have already seen how acts of terrorism perpetuated against one state can have a worse effect economically on other states.”
H.E. The Honourable Julian Robert Hunte, OBE, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004
Security: “Instead of a world of peace, security and economic and social progress, in which human rights, fundamental freedoms and international law are fully respected, today our world is buffeted by poverty, hunger, the spread of endemic disease, including HIV/AIDS, conflicts, war, terrorism and other grave problems.”
Terrorism: “The complex and uncertain threat of terrorists and terrorism constitutes a critical factor contributing to the rising tide of violence, death and destruction.”
“Even with our best efforts, it is not always possible to know where or when terrorists will strike again. Neither can we say with any certainty that current efforts against terrorism have made the world a less dangerous place.”
H.E. The Honourable Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of
September 24, 2004
Terrorism: “Since September 11th, 2001, the fight against international terrorism has intensified on all fronts. It is right and proper that rich and poor countries be engaged in this on-going war on the barbarism of terror.”
“St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a reliable partner in this global struggle against the evil of terrorism.”
“This august body must, however, be reminded yet again that there is another terrorism which we must fight relentlessly. It is the terrorism of war, poverty, illiteracy and disease, including HIV/AIDS.”
WMD: “We must never forget, either, that daily hunger for one billion persons worldwide is truly a weapon of mass destruction. Together we must fight this terrorism also.”
H.E. The Honourable Tuila’epa Sailele Malielegaoi, Prime Minister of
September 24, 2004
Small arms: “As current chair, I wish to inform the Assembly that the Pacific leaders again noted the dangers to the world of terrorism and to the Pacific region in particular of transnational crime, illicit drugs and the spread of assault small arms weapons.”
Security: “Many innocent lives continue to be wasted with people killed or maimed and multitudes displaced by heinous acts designed to undermine and destabilize the collective efforts of the international community, to achieve peace and security for our societies.”
NWFZ: “An issue that the Pacific Islands have brought to the attention of the United Nations over the years and remains relevant, not only for the Pacific, but very importantly, in advancing the cause of nuclear non-proliferation, is the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty.”
Terrorism: “Samoa condemns in the strongest terms all acts of terrorism and will continue to take actions and contribute our support to the campaign against it.”
“Besides terrorism, other scourges to world peace and the stability of our nations persist.”
“Clearly, our small nations are trying hard to contribute to security and peace initiatives of the United Nations. However, the national obligations including reporting for the various conventions and UN resolutions on security and terrorism place an onerous burden on the infrastructure and administrative capacity of small states.”
“The campaign against terrorism can still be successful but not merely by force of arms. Preventing safe haven for terrorists and closing off their sources of finances, are just as crucial.”
“…the Pacific Islands Forum has strengthened cooperation in counterterrorism measures as well as emphasized national efforts and regional cooperation in combating transnational organized crime and in building border control capacities.”
WMD: “The threat of weapons of mass destruction, poverty and hunger, environmental degradation, trafficking and smuggling of human beings, HIV/AIDs, malaria and tuberculosis are becoming perennial major threats to global security.”
H.E. Mr. Fabio Berardi, Minister for Foreign and Political Affairs
September 28, 2004
Disarmament: “To continue to serve the international community, the UN should be given more effective tools to enhance mediation and peaceful settlement of disputes, preventive control, verification, planning and sanctioning, in order to prevent the outburst of warfare and promote disarmament and arms control.”
Terrorism: “In line with relevant international standards, San Marino has recently passed a special Law to combat terrorism and associated crimes. It also actively cooperates with the two UN Committees on anti-terrorism, established by Security Council Resolutions 1267 and 1373.”
“San Marino once again condemns any form of terrorism, the most serious and impending threat to peace which can be neither explainable nor justified,
“…so as to disseminate a more and more shared culture of peace and cooperation and reject violence and oppression.”
H.E. Mr. Fradique Bandeira Melo De Menezes, President of
September 24, 2004
Security: “More than ever before, the governments have to give a universal forum like wise the responsibility to rebuild international order based on peace, respect of human rights, security and cooperation for development.”
Nonproliferation: “The world is a less secure place today than it was just a year ago. The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction continues and nonproliferation treaties notwithstanding.”
Terrorism: “Intolerance, terrorism, occupation, discrimination, organized crime, social injustice to say the least is some sources of open conflicts today.”
“Terrorism across the globe is destroying, destabilizing governments killing people like in Madrid, Middle East and else where.”
Verification: “All countries must open all installations for International Agency for Atomic Energy for all out inspections and all weapons of mass destruction must be eradicate from our planet.”
Weapons: “My country regrets that international relations in some parts of the world have deteriorated to the point where extreme violence is the daily events, …where human rights are daily violated and the environment has saturated with use and abuse of dangerous weapons.”
His Royal Highness Prince Saud Al-Faisal, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 27, 2004
Security: “The Arab initiative continues to stand as a credible basis for the security and stability for all the peoples of the region because it ensures a lasting, just and comprehensive solution to the question of Palestine as well as the Arab- Israeli conflict in general.”
“Peace will be achieved and security will prevail only when the United Nations resolutions are implemented, the provisions of international law are respected and applied, and the principles of justice and equality are observed.”
Terrorism: “Today, we are in dire need of mobilizing all possible efforts to increase international cooperation to combat international terrorism, confront those who instigate and finance it.”
Transparency: “…the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia supports the call for reforms to secure broader membership of the Security Council in such a way as to improve geographical representation, promote transparency in its operation, avoid the application of double standards, and ensure the adoption of measures to enhance the credibility of its work…”
Verification: “we call upon the international community to adopt an even-handed approach, refrain from applying double standards, assume its legal and moral responsibilities, and urge the Israeli Government to refrain from the development of its nuclear program, and subject its nuclear installations to the inspection and safeguards system of the International Atomic Energy Agency.”
WMD: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is closely monitoring the endeavors aimed at eliminating all forms of weapons of mass destruction from the Middle East and making it free from all such lethal weapons.”
H.E. Mr. Vuk Draškovic, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 23, 2004
Terrorism: “The fight against global terrorism and all forms of this scourge, such as anti-Semitism, is our primary responsibility today.”
“In the fight against terrorism force is unavoidable, but prevention is what we need most. Politicians, religious leaders, members of international spiritual elites and the media
must continually emphasize that the killing of children and of the innocent are in fact crimes that the terrorists are perpetrating against their own religions and against their own nations and that God will neither forgive them or reward them with paradise.”
“As a consequence of terrorism and massive violations of basic human rights, almost 200,000 Serbs and other non-Albanians have been expelled from Kosovo and Metohija.”
Multilateralism: “Multilateralism is the means to prevent the catastrophe of the clash of faiths and civilizations. At the same time, terrorism must be condemned with equal resolve by all. There can be no ‘acceptable.’"
H.E. Mr. Momodu Koroma, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 29, 2004
DDR: “The Government of Sierra Leone and people know from experience that ceasefire, disarmament, demobilization and reintegration are essential components of peace.”
Security: “Just over three weeks ago, on the initiative of the Member States of the Non-Aligned Movement, this Assembly reaffirmed the central role of the United Nations in the maintenance of international peace and security and the promotion of international cooperation.”
“The United Nations was formed over fifty years ago, as a response to the peace and security needs of the era of its birth. Since then, the world has experienced, and continues to experience fundamental changes to which the United Nations should adapt.”
“We note in particular that over the next several months, the Security Council will review the residual functions against the capacity of the Sierra Leone armed forces and police to maintain security and stability effectively throughout the country.
“…We hope that the review will take into consideration the security situation in the sub-region.”
“Mr. President, new challenges are emerging and new threats are being hatched in various corners of our world with unprecedented frequency. However, we must not forget the old and existing challenges, the old and unresolved threats to human safety and security.”
Terrorism: “While deploring all acts of terrorism, it is important to recognize that poor countries, particularly those emerging from conflict, have weak capacity to fight terrorism. If global action is what is needed to fight terrorism, and my delegation believes this should be the case, efforts should be made to enhance the capacity of poor countries to play their own role in the battle.”
“My delegation believes that equal attention should also be paid to the root causes of armed conflict across states, including the senseless acts of international terrorism that are being perpetrated in many parts of the world.”
H.E. Mr. George Yeo, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004
Multilateralism: “So many problems like global warming, epidemics and terrorism can only be overcome if we work together. So many opportunities made possible by new scientific discoveries can only be fully exploited if we combine our efforts.”
Security and Terrorism: “We meet in New York under conditions of high security. All over the world, governments, corporations and individuals are allocating vast amounts of resources to combat terrorism - for intelligence-gathering, surveillance, defensive and offensive measures.”
“The Beslan massacre last month and the Jakarta bombing two weeks ago remind us once again that this war against terrorism is a long struggle requiring the mobilisation of entire communities from the top all the way down to the grassroots.”
H.E. Ivan Gašparovic, President of
September 21, 2004
Disarmament: “Slovakia also backs the toughening of international treaties that relate to disarmament and prevention of spreading WMDs, including international control mechanisms.”
Security: “Convinced as we are that international peace, security, and development are closely linked, official development aid and cooperation with developing and transition countries is becoming an integral part of Slovakia's foreign policy.”
“Severe humanitarian crises also pose a threat to peace and security in the modern
world.”
Landmines: “A Slovak unit, which specializes in locating and destroying landmines, weapons, and ammunition, is currently engaged in a humanitarian mission there. In addition, Slovakia has stepped up its participation by joining a programme for training Iraqi police officers.”
Proliferation: “Another issue that calls for efficient international cooperation is the fight against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.”
Terrorism: “Terrorism poses a threat to everyone. No one can be neutral or indifferent.
It is necessary that we are resolute and we jointly mobilize our efforts in combating it.”
“The twelve UN anti-terrorism conventions and protocols are of utmost importance in the fight against terrorism, and the UN must continue to play a key role in bolstering legal instruments in this battle.
“…The Slovak Republic supports a prompt approval of a comprehensive convention against terrorism as a whole, along with a convention aimed at averting acts of nuclear terrorism.”
H.E. Dr. Janez Drnovsek, President of
September 21, 2004
Terrorism and WMD: "The common fight against international terrorism and its origins must remain one of the priority tasks of individual members and of the entire UN. This also applies to preventing the spread of weapons of mass destruction. The unanimous Security Council resolution is a welcome step toward effect cooperation in this area."
H.E. The Honourable Laurie Chan, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004
Security: “Sustainable management of resources is essential to guaranteeing the security of our future generation.”
Terrorism: “My delegation offers its deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones during these uncondonable incidents. Solomon Islands condemn in the strongest possible terms such acts of terror and fully support international efforts to combat this scourge.In this regard, I also wish to join others .in calling on the global community to support small states to build their national capacities toward ongoing efforts aimed at combating transnational crimes such as arms smuggling, drug trafficking, people smuggling, money laundering, and terrorism.”
Weapons: “The success of the Regional Assistance to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) in promptly stabilizing the country within a period of three months - collecting some 3,700 weapons without a shot being fired - presents a fine example of the significance of regional co-operation to resolve conflict situations.”
H.E. Mr. Thabo Mbeki, President of
September 22, 2004
Terrorism: “Both the powerful and the disempowered will undoubtedly agree that terrorism and war represent a serious threat to all humanity.”
“Both the powerful and the disempowered agree and will agree that the international community must act together, successfully to confront these situations, and therefore the
threat and challenge of terrorism and war.”
“However, the powerful will also make the additional determination that terrorism and war constitute the central and principal threat and challenge that human civilisation faces.
“…they have no logical choice but to identify terrorism as the central and principal threat and challenge they face, and to which they must respond.”
H.E. Mr. José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, Prime Minister of
September 21, 2004
Security: “There will not be either security or stability in the world as long as the Middle East conflict continues to bleed. This conflict is the primary tumor for many sources of instability.”
“Peace and security will only spread over the world with the strength of international legality, with the strength of human rights, with the strength of democracy, of abidance
by the law.”
“World peace and security cannot be ensured without respect for legality. Therefore, Spain wishes to promote the effective functioning of the International Criminal Court.”
Terrorism: “Our conviction is that legality, and only legality, will allows us to prevail in the fight against terrorism.”
”…We can and must rationally analyze how it emerges, how it grows, so as to be able to fight it rationally.”
“From thirty years of terrorism we have learned that the risk of a terrorist victory rises sharply when, in order to fight terror, democracy betrays its fundamental nature, governments curtail civil liberties.
“…This is what our people have learned: that it is legality, democracy and political means and ways what makes us stronger and them weaker.”
Hon. Albert H.N. Shabangu, Deputy Prime Minister of,
September 23, 2004
Arms Expenditures: “Our united effort is also addressing the conflicts which continue to threaten peace, stability and security in the African continent. We realize that without these elements, our development goals will continue to elude us, especially because, apart from resources that are wasted on arms, our people can only be productive and be able to trade amongst themselves and with the rest of the world under conditions of peace, stability and security.”
CTBT/NPT: “The Treaty on the Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty are designed as an essential first step towards a world free from the danger that such weapons pose.”
Disarmament: “Our failure so far as an organization is due to inability to agree a time frame suitable to all members for arms control and nuclear disarmament.”
“The Kingdom of Swaziland therefore calls upon the Conference on Disarmament to implement the proposal of the Non-Aligned Movement by establishing, as its highest priority, an Ad Hoc Committee to begin negotiations on a programme for the complete elimination of nuclear weapons, from those countries which have them within a time-bound framework.”
Proliferation: “We clearly need to find a way to strengthen the non-proliferation regime and to prevent the flow of conventional weapons and anti-personnel landmines into the zones of conflicts including terrorists.”
“Future global stability is also threatened by the continuing spread of weapons of mass destruction.”
Terrorism: “The parliament of the Kingdom of Swaziland will be debating and hopefully pass the long awaited Anti-terrorism Bill in the next session.”
“As part of our support for the alliance against terrorism, the government of Swaziland is currently studying all UN Conventions that deal with terrorism to ensure not only adaptation of, but also compliance with such important conventions.”
“The Kingdom of Swaziland continues to condemn, in no uncertain terms, terrorism, which constantly threatens world peace, security and stability.”
H.E. Mr. Göran Persson
September 21, 2004
Disarmament: “The need for strong policies in disarmament and non-proliferation is acute. The nuclear weapon states must show real progress towards disarmament.”
WMD: “Still, weapons of mass destruction constitute one of the main threats to international peace and security. The threat of terrorism in connection with proliferation of such weapons is real.”
“International law should guide us in all our collective efforts – to attain freedom from weapons of mass destruction and terrorism, sustainable development and the respect for human rights.”
Security: “Four years ago, the resolution 1325 on women, peace and security was passed. It was a groundbreaking achievement. But now we need to do more to translate the common objectives into concrete improvements for women around the world.”
Transparency: “Other decisive areas are good governance and transparency.”
H.E. M. Joseph Deiss
September 21, 2004
Terrorism: “Switzerland's accession to the UN took place at a time when the fight against terrorism dominated international discussion, and the divergences in opinion on how to proceed against Iraq were widening.”
H.E. Mr. Farouk Al-Shara', Deputy Prime Minister
September 27, 2004
NPT: “We joined the NPT and concluded a comprehensive safeguards regime agreement with the IAEA.”
NWFZ: “Syria was among the first countries of region to call for declaring the ME a region a zone free from all weapons of mass destruction, primarily nuclear weapons. We have seriously worked for the attainment of this objective.”
“…the draft resolution we submitted on behalf of the Arab Group to the SC on 29 December 2003. The draft called for the establishment of zone free from all weapons of mass destruction in the ME region, foremost among them nuclear weapons, in the context of a collective international monitoring regime, and under the supervision of the UN which will complement the role of multilateral international conventions regulating disarmament questions.”
Terrorism: “International terrorism is a real cause for concern for us all.
Together we should work to eradicate this dangerous phenomenon by addressing its real root causes.”
“It is on this ground that Syria condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.”
“During its tenure in the SC, Syria strived to support the efforts of the international community in combating international terrorism.”
H.E. Mr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 27, 2004
Multilateralism and security: “We cherish multilateralism as the best means to secure peace around the world. We cherish multilateralism as the best means to develop prosperity around the world. But above all, we cherish multilateralism as the best means to achieve both security and development of the world.”
“Security is in charge of our policy and implementation. Internationally, we are active in the Human Security Network and other international arena where human security issues are at paramount.”
“Present-day realities – the emergence of building blocks, the inextricable linkage between development and security, and the need to develop human and state security on parallel tracks – clearly reflect how much the world has changed since 1945.”
Terrorism: “As civilized societies, we must come together to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, wherever it may occur. Terrorism is a direct threat to state security, but it also undermines human security.”
“Terrorism is a direct threat to state security, but it also undermines human security.”
H.E. Dr. José Ramos-Horta, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 29, 2004
Arms Expenditures: “Weapons-producing countries are flooding the world with all types of arms that fuel conflicts.”
“But we in Timor-Leste believe that developing countries must do more to end corruption and mismanagement, reduce arms and defence expenditure, spend more on education, health and poverty eradication.”
“There must be a strict code of conduct on weapons exports aimed at reducing the flow of conventional weapons to poor countries and regions in conflict.”
Chemical and biological weapons: “Allow me to address some issues that are of concern to us. In the past 20 years or so, our world has been the stage for several major conflicts; namely, the invasion of Iran by Saddam Hussein in the 80s which resulted in the death of over a million people Chemical and biological weapons were unleashed on both civilians and combatants.”
Security: “We are grateful to Australia, the UK and Malaysia for their generous support in enhancing the operational competence of our security forces.”
“The Atlantic partnership is the single most important pillar of the world's security and economic well-being.”
Nuclear violence: “The US fought a senseless and ugly war in Indochina, and the USSR wreaked its own version of Vietnam in Afghanistan. And the threat of nuclear violence was much greater then, than it is today.”
“The abrupt collapse of the USSR and the end of the Cold War in 1990 ushered in a new era; a more promising New World Order free from nuclear threats and proxy wars sponsored by the two superpowers.”
Terrorism: “We believe that Islamic extremism as the basis for the current wave of international terrorism is a passing phenomenon. Like other extremist groups before them, namely the European terrorist groups of the 60s, they have no popular support and will be defeated by use of a multi-pronged strategy.”
H.E. The Honourable Sonatane Tu'a Taumoepeau-Tupou, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004
Security: “To be sure, Tonga is not seeking greater market access but desires security for its trade, under a rule based multilateral trading system.”
Terrorism: “Wanton acts of terrorism continue to test our fortitude as members of the international community. We must remain collectively resolute in our resolve to prevent and vigorously combat the proponents of this evil.”
“We continue to strongly support the work of the Counter Terrorism Committee (CTC) and applaud the recent revitalization of the CTC and its work.”
Trinidad and Tobago
H.E. The Honourable Patrick Manning, Prime Minister of
September 24, 2004
Security: “The catastrophic events of the present hurricane season bring into sharper focus yet another dimension of the vulnerability of Caribbean countries.
“…a whole new set of security issues have now arisen in the Caribbean as a result of these developments and the International Community might wish to take note.”
Terrorism: “Trinidad and Tobago condemns all forms and manifestations of terrorism, wherever and by whomsoever committed.”
“We are already a party to the principal international legal instruments against terrorism, and parliamentary action will shortly be taken by the Government to enact legislation enabling us to honour obligations regarding the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism.”
Transparency: “This approach, together with adherence to integrity and transparency in public affairs and equality of opportunity for all, has been essential to the continued peace, stability and progress we enjoy as we propose to make Trinidad and Tobago a beacon of integrity in the world.”
H.E. Mr. Habib Ben Yahia, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004
Security: “Tunisia is convinced that international relations can prosper and develop only in a climate of dialogue, entente and solidarity, …so that security, peace and stability prevail in the world, and so that humanity can look to the future with a maximum of confidence, optimism and ambition.”
Terrorism: “The increasing danger of the phenomenon of terrorism in our times requires further optimizing international coordination in order to stand against this scourge and ward off its dangers, by treating its root causes, finding just solutions to a number of pending international problems, and curbing the phenomena of poverty, exclusion and marginalization in the world."
H.E. Mr. Abdullah Gül, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 23, 2004
NWFZ: “The creation of Nuclear Weapon Free Zones is an important way of strengthening peace and security in the world and in all regions, including the Middle East.”
Proliferation: “Universal humanitarian challenges and chronic political-military conflicts are compounded with new and asymmetrical threats: Threats such as .terrorism, narcotics, organized crime, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and environmental problems.”
Security: "Turkey is determined to sustain the promising and constructive atmosphere in our relations with Greece. We hope that the improvement in bilateral relations will continue in the coming period. Our wide ranging cooperation is expanding in every field. This will facilitate the settlement of all pending issues. It will also result in a climate of cooperation beneficial to the two countries as well as peace, stability and security in the region as whole.”
WMD: “We also strongly believe in the urgent need to strengthen the control regimes on weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems.”
H.E. Mr. Rashid Meredov, Deputy Prime Minister of
September 27, 2004
Security: “It should be noted that one of the priority areas of our cooperation with the United Nations is the area of maintenance of international peace and security, prevention of confrontation and conflict resolution by political means and methods.”
“It is especially relevant if one to understand that the security conditions of the world
community are formulated by the real contribution of every nation to the strengthening of its internal stability on par with cooperation at a collective level.”
“Prospects of the world and security on the global level would be determined in many respects on how multilateral dialogue on problems of this region would be constructed.”
Terrorism: “After the events of September 11, 2001 Turkmenistan was one of the first countries to support the United Nations initiative on building international coalition to fight terrorism and has become its active participant.”
“In this context Turkmenistan not only decisively denounces any acts of terrorism in any part of the world but also undertakes specific legislative and practical measures aimed at fighting this evil and preventing it from spreading.”
“In this connection Turkmenistan stands for effective implementation of complex system of measures to fight terrorism including active cooperation of states in searching and bringing to responsibility organizers and perpetrators of terrorist acts.”
“To counteract international terrorism, defend rights and freedoms of our own citizens we
have to be able to foresee each its manifestation and oppose it not only with our unanimous condemnation but also with high professionalism of law enforcement agencies as well as active use of all international legal instruments created within the UN framework.”
H.E. The Honourable Maatia Toafa, Acting Prime Minister
September 24, 2004
Security: “Tuvalu is privileged and proud to be in this most indispensable body, the UN… at the same time, however, we are constantly reminded of our responsibilities to every Tuvaluan who everyday worries about his future economic, cultural, environmental and long term security and survival on our small, isolated and extremely vulnerable islands.”
“With a height of a mere three meters above sea level, our livelihoods and sources of food security are already affected badly, with increased salinity in ground water, land erosion, coral bleaching and total anxiety.”
“As we mark the tenth anniversary of the UNFCCC, and as we begin to look into future actions against climate change and sea level rise, we appeal for more attention from the United Nations, whose existence is for world peace and security, and for stronger leadership by the international community against this global threat.”
Terrorism: “Tuvalu is fully committed to joining the fight against international terrorism as required by Security Council resolutions. But we would need to seek the assistance of the UN and the international community to help us fulfill the requirements, particularly on reporting, of these resolutions and of the international anti-terrorism conventions.”
“Terrorist acts, including the unfortunate seizure of a school in Russia, have proven the continued existence of forces bent on undermining the United Nations founding goals of freedom, peace and security.”
H.E. Tom Butime, Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004
DDR: “A robust MONUC force would be critical for the enforcement of UNSC Resolution 1493 (2003) on the arms embargo against militias, as well as the disarmament, demobilisation, rehabilitation, resettlement and re-integration (DDRRR) of all armed rebel groups and militias operating on the territory of the DRC.”
“We also wish to thank the friends of Somalia in particular, and the international community in general, for their generous support for the Somali peace process. We call upon them to continue the support not only for the peace process but also for the postconflict disarmament, demobilisation, rehabilitation, resettlement and re-integration (DDRRR) as well as development phases.”
Multilateralism: “I note with satisfaction that after a year in which the centrality of the United Nations in the maintenance of international peace and security had come under serious challenge, there seems to be a return to the more widely accepted multilateral approach to resolving global challenges.”
Terrorism: “Terrorism continues to be one of the biggest threats to international peace and security. Since September 11, 2001, thousands of innocent people, including women and children have been killed or maimed as a result of indiscriminate terrorist acts.”
“We must commit ourselves to implementation of UNSC Resolution 1373 and related anti-terrorism conventions to ensure that every country takes necessary measures against financing, harbouring or supporting terrorist organisations.”
WMD: “The need for the reform of the UN is imperative, if we want to enhance the role of the organization and the effectiveness of multilateralism to address emerging hard threats such as terrorism, WMD, and genocide as well as soft challenges such as persistent poverty and HIV/AIDS.”
H.E. Mr. Kostyantyn Gryshchenko, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 27, 2004
Disarmament and non-proliferation: “(The) Role of the UN in the field of non-proliferation and disarmament should be also strengthened.”
“We hope that this positive example will be followed by countries, which entertain ideas of protecting their security through the access to nuclear weapons.”
Nuclear Energy: “Ukraine has fulfilled its commitments related to the closure of Chornobyl nuclear power plant.”
NPT: “This year Ukraine will mark the 10th anniversary of its accession to the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). The landmark decision to eliminate the third largest nuclear arsenal and relinquish nuclear capability has significantly enhanced international non-proliferation regime and global security.”
Terrorism: “Creation of a new efficient system of information exchange on terrorism will help prevent new attacks and save priceless human lives.”
H.E.Mr.Rashid Abdullah Al-Noaimi
September 22, 2004
Disarmament: “In this context, we look forward to effectuate the outcomes of the recent visit made by the Director of International Atomic Energy Agency to some countries in the region for the purpose of convincing their governments to give up the arsenals of nuclear weapons, which pose a threat to the neighboring countries.”
NPT: “In this connection, we renew our appeal to the international community to take all the necessary measures to compel the Israeli government to accede to the non-proliferation treaty, and to subject its nuclear facilities to international inspection supervised by the Agency in order to establish a zone free from weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East and Gulf region.”
NWFZ: “Achieving and maintaining security equilibrium in the Middle East and the Gulf region, has become an important priority, which requires development of a comprehensive and non selective policy for building confidence, which is capable of eliminating all existing arsenals of weapons of mass destruction in order to advance the international process of non-proliferation of these weapons.”
Terrorism: “The United Arab Emirates reiterates its condemnation to all acts of terrorism in the Gulf region, especially in the brotherly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and other areas
where a number of residential areas were subject to horrific terrorist attacks.”
Transparency: “Previous international experiences proved that regional and international multilateral initiatives, built on principals of partnership, justice, transparency and equality among peoples and countries, are capable of addressing these international challenges.”
H.E., Rt. Hon. Jack Straw, MP, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
September 23, 2004
Multilateralism: “I am proud that just a few months after the difficult times of early last year, France, Germany and the United Kingdom came together to work, as we continue to do, on the Iran dossier before the International Atomic Energy Agency.”
Security: “Let me highlight three areas which to me seem particularly important. First, our approach must be broader, tackling threats to the most vulnerable, such as poverty, disease and environmental degradation .Second, we must build a new consensus by expanding the scope of collective action. And third, we must deal with the threat of terrorism which menaces us all and everything for which we stand.”
Terrorism: “The threat of terrorism confronts democratic, properly-functioning states with an acute dilemma: to fight those who recognize none of the values for which we stand, while remaining true to those values.”
“Our commitments under international conventions express many of those values and the importance which we attach to them. But equally, those Conventions cannot be allowed to shelter those involved in terrorism.”
“But we cannot let terrorists exploit a protection designed for the persecuted, not the persecutors. We shall therefore be working closely with Russia on its important draft Security Council Resolution, to see how best we can prevent those who commit, support and finance terrorism from sheltering behind a refugee status to which they are not entitled, and to look at ways to ensure the speedier extradition of such individuals.”
Transparency: “We could also use the UN to agree, to monitor and to help to implement globally- accepted norms of good governance, helping to stop unstable states from failing and building the transparency and accountability which create the conditions for lasting security and prosperity.”
H.E. Benjamin William Mkapa, President of
September 21, 2004
Security: "Members of the United Nations must uphold, in word and in deed, steadfastly, the ideals of its Charter for peace with justice, and for security with development for all.
"The first International Conference on the Great Lakes, which Tanzania will host in November 2004, will review aspects concerning peace and security, governance and democracy, economic development and regional integration, as well as humanitarian and social issues in the region. Ultimately, we hope to adopt a comprehensive security, stability and development pact for the Great Lakes region."
H.E. Mr. George W. Bush, President of
September 21, 2004
Proliferation: "We are determined to prevent proliferation, and to enforce the demands of the world and my nation is grateful to the soldiers of many nations who have helped to deliver the Iraqi people from an outlaw dictator."
Security: "In this young century, our world needs a new definition of security.Our security is not merely found in spheres of influence, or some balance of power. The security of our world is found in the advancing rights of mankind.
"Today I have outlined a broad agenda to advance human dignity, and enhance the security of all of us. The defeat of terror ... the protection of human rights ... the spread of prosperity ... the advance of democracy ...these causes, these ideals, call us to great work in the world. Each of us alone can only do so much. Together we can accomplish so much more."
Weapons of mass destruction: "Every nation that wants peace will share the benefits of a freer world.And every nation that seeks peace has an obligation to help build that world. Eventually, there is no safe isolation from terror networks, or the failed states that shelter them, or outlaw regimes, or weapons of mass destruction .Eventually, there is no safety in looking away, seeking the quiet life by ignoring the struggles and oppression of others.."
H.E. Mr. Jorge Batlle Ibáñez, President of
September 23, 2004
Terrorism: “Our country has recently adopted legislation aimed at strengthening the system of prevention and control of money laundering and financing of terrorism.”
“The law also provides for improvements in the international cooperation mechanisms for combating money laundering and the financing of terrorism.”
H.E. Mr. Sodiq Safaecv, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 27, 2004
Security: “Uzbekistan holds that the regional agenda should be given a priority status in reviewing the urgent issues of global security. Only by means of secure and stable regions we can gradually move towards global security.”
NWFZ: “The establishing of a nuclear-weapons-free zone in Central Asia remains one of the priorities of our foreign policy.
“…We trust that the establishment of this NWFZ would become an important element of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime.”
Terrorism: “Uzbekistan strongly opposes any kind of allegations and assertions that link international terrorism with ever growing religion of Islam which has made an immense contribution in the history of humanity.”
“It is vital to fight the ideology of extremism and fanaticism, to outlaw militant radical religious groups that nurture international terrorism.”
“We need to admit that international terrorism, capable of quickly transforming and adapting to the changing circumstances of contemporary world, is trying to impose its conditions, keep whole regions in fright.”
“The region is encountering with a fusion of transnational threats, namely terrorism, extremism and drug trafficking. Similar patterns can be observed in other regions as well.”
H.E. The Honourable Barak Sope Maautamate, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 28, 2004
Security: “The world is expected to plunge into further turmoil unless the role of this only truly global body is reinvigorated to resume its legitimate responsibility in addressing the causes of conflict and maintaining peace and security.”
“While the fight against terrorism takes center stage, it must not overshadow the socio-economic development agenda and other serious security concerns affecting the developing world and in particular those of small island states.”
“I hope wisdom will prevail as the debate continues on our future destiny. Despite all our differences and diversities human security for all is our main goal, and this should remain the focus of the UN agenda.”
Terrorism: “The world is at the crossroads and we meet here at a critical juncture. Around us civil strife, wars, poverty, diseases, famine, drought, natural disasters, terrorism, environmental degradation, depletion of land and marine resources, etc are ravaging the world.”
“Resources will inevitably be diverted towards combating terrorism in all its facets but judicious decisions need to be taken.”
H.E. Mr. Jesús Arnaldo Pérez, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004
Arms: “Can we not hear the whispers of the poor, the disfranchised victims, and the desolate— above the profiteering arms industry? Why are we unable to stop this insanity? Can we afford to exempt ourselves from bearing this responsibility?”
Security: “A few days ago, President Lula of Brazil chaired a hugely successful meeting of world leaders on the theme of ‘Combating Hunger and Poverty.’ This wonderful initiative co-sponsored by Presidents Chirac, Lagos Rodriguez Zapatero, expressed our common vision to fight against global poverty and social injustice to guarantee the security and development of both North and South. To that end we recognize the need to go beyond the Official Development Aid fund.”
H.E. Mr. Le Cong Phung, Deputy Foreign Minister
Septmeber 27, 2004
Terrorism: “At this august forum, we wish to reaffirm the position of the Vietnamese Government denouncing every act of terrorism. We urge the international community to further strengthen cooperation with a view to eliminating terrorism from our civilized world.”
“We have more than once stated our fundamental position that for it to enjoy broad support and participation and therefore be effective, the fight against terrorism must be pursued in conformity with the provisions of the UN Charter and must be free from selectivity and double standards.”
H.E. Mr. Abubakr Al-Qirbi, Minister for Foreign Affairs
September 24, 2004
NWFZ and the NPT: “I wish to affirm my country's position of support to the United Nations efforts regarding arrangements for the convening of a disarmament conference which aims, inter alia, at the establishment of the Middle East region as a zone free of weapons of mass destruction. To this end, Israel must accede to the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty.”
Terrorism: “While the Government of Yemen is responsible for the safety and security of its citizens and the homeland, it remains faithful to its international commitments for combating terrorism.”
“Yemen's experience in combating terrorism has taught us that an effective battle against terrorism also requires deployment of all possible resources, including dialogue, enhancing development and justice in addition to good security and intelligence work.”
“…we welcome any partnership between Arab states, the European Union, the United States of America and the world at large that enhances our development, stability and fight against terrorism.”
“The tragic situation unfolding today in Iraq in the wake of bringing down the regime of Saddam Hussein has resulted in terrorism, violations and chaos all of us can see. This might take Iraq down a slope of sectoral and racial violence and conflict which in turn will threaten the unity and future of Iraq.”
H.E. Mr. Levy Patrick Mwanawasa
September 21, 2004
Proliferation: “Zambia reaffirms its support for the United Nations' initiatives in the fight against global terrorism and the proliferation of small arms and any forms of weapons of mass destruction.”
Multilateralism: “It is essential that we take advantage of the immense problem-solving potential of multilateralism.”
H.E. R.G. Mugabe
September 22, 2004
Security: “We are seriously concerned that the United Nations, the pre-eminent instrument for the maintenance of international peace and security, watched helplessly while Iraq was plundered by the US and UK-led so-called coalition of the willing.”
Terrorism: “Mr. President, the fight against international terrorism has exposed the duplicity and insincerity of erstwhile leading democracies and human rights monitors with regard to the question of the observance of human rights.”