UN General Assembly
2013

But we need not wait for disasters. In every sector of basic development and environmental efforts, our door is open for increased collaboration among the United Nations, our regional resources and bilateral partners. The statements of sympathy in the plenary are all too often not translated into effective, island-tailored results. Our in-country United Nations presence still has a long way to go in truly delivering as one and better addressing pressing threats. I encourage a direct discussion between the United Nations and our region on practical efforts to enhance in-country effectiveness and collaboration. No one people or nation should be passed over. Even as the United Nations enters into a new discussion in setting the stage for the post-2015 development agenda, improved progress towards the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) remains no less a priority. I would also like to recognize the contributions that Taiwan has made in helping my country in efforts to achieve the MDGs. Pacific Islands Forum leaders have, for the first time, recognized the role of the United Nations in authorizing nuclear-weapon testing during the Cold