I salute the political courage displayed by the Israeli and the Palestinian leadership in their efforts to achieve a durable solution. I welcome the recent decision by the Palestinian Central Council to defer the decision on the question of statehood in the interest of further negotiations. Mr. President, Democracy is a peacemaker. Democracies are much less prone to violent conflicts. The fig leaf of elections does not by itIself turn a dictatorship into a democracy.
Elections can even lead to a backlash, as frustrations rise and tensions turn into violence.
Denmark increasingly turns her efforts towards the prevention and management of violent conflicts, in line with our comprehensive engagement in developing countries and active involvement in UN peacekeeping activities. We will strengthen the ability to react quickly and effectively. We will continue to support regional co-operation, also when it comes to countering the uncontrolled spread of small arms. The landmines are a substantial obstacle to development. Increased efforts by the UN, governments and NGO's are necessary.