UN General Assembly
1996

continue to vigorously support international cooperation to combat this evil. In 1995, we also celebrated the United Nations Year for Tolerance. A culture of tolerance — which is vital for consolidating democracy and preventing ethnic conflicts, racist tendencies and xenophobia — has been promoted through various international and regional activities under the umbrella of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Current developments unmistakably demonstrate how crucial it is to keep this precious concept alive within society and in bilateral, regional and international relations. We attach great importance to the follow-up of the Year and will present a draft resolution under the relevant agenda item of the General Assembly. Located on the fault line of several regions fraught with conflicts and instability, Turkey naturally is seriously concerned by developments on its periphery that threaten regional and international peace and security. We have been playing a crucial role in the efforts to find lasting and just solutions to the current problems. We are also actively taking part in various United Nations initiatives, 5 General Assembly 15th plenary meeting