UN General Assembly
2008

In addition, the great untapped potential of those countries should be explored and exploited to the maximum extent through increased investment and technology transfer by developed countries and other development partners for mutual benefit. The goal of achieving peace and prosperity remains the highest priority of the international community, yet inter-State conflict, terrorism and unlawful unilateral sanctions and interventions continue to impede that goal. We are greatly distressed by the persistent conflict that has plagued the lives of the peoples of the Middle East for decades, particularly of the Palestinian people, who have been fighting to exercise their right to self-determination and Statehood. We are deeply saddened by the number of casualties and the material damage inflicted upon the nations of Iraq and Afghanistan. We remain troubled by the embargo that has been imposed on the Republic of Cuba by the Government of the United States of America, an act that is clearly illegal and not responsive to the legitimate interests of the peoples of either nation. In that regard, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic sincerely urges the parties