UN General Assembly
1997

developing States, an effective and financially stable United Nations that meets the challenges of development, as well as of the Organization’s other core activities, remains critical. The Solomon Islands Government supports the Secretary-General’s programme of reform. We have no illusions, however, that it will be easy for the Member States to reach a consensus on its adoption. Certain controversial proposals face intense debate, but we are confident that the outcome of our deliberations will benefit all. These discussions should take place in only one forum so that small delegations such as my own can fully participate. In an ideal United Nations, the future design of the Security Council could be characterized as “equality of membership, yes; the veto, no”. Political reality, however, requires another approach. The Security Council should be expanded, with permanent and non-permanent seats for developed and developing States. Solomon Islands will give serious consideration to permanent membership for Germany, Japan and several developing countries. Since the present permanent members insist on retaining the veto, it must be restricted to questions relating to Chapter VII of the Charter.