UN General Assembly
1994

It is with pleasure that I warmly congratulate Mr. Amara Essy on his election to the presidency of the General Assembly at its forty-ninth session. In his election I see a recognition of the role that Côte d’Ivoire, a friendly African country, has played on the international scene as well as an appreciation of his personal qualities and experience. A word of recognition is also in order for the outgoing President, Ambassador Samuel Insanally, for his dedicated and positive service during the last session of the Assembly. To the Secretary-General, Mr. Boutros Boutros-Ghali, I renew my homage for the secure and committed manner in which he is carrying out his mission. As he already knows, Portugal can be counted on in the pursuit of the objectives of peace and development and in the consolidation of a substantial reform of the United Nations system. 15 My German colleague has already addressed the Assembly on behalf of the 12 member States of the European Union, expressing positions to which Portugal fully subscribes. Nevertheless, I would like to reflect on