Lidstaten beklemtoon die kompleksiteit van terreurbedreigings, aangesien die Algemene Vergadering debat vyfde dag in die wêreld betree – Manchikoni
Home / World / Lidstaten beklemtoon die kompleksiteit van terreurbedreigings, aangesien die Algemene Vergadering debat vyfde dag in die wêreld betree
Lidstaten beklemtoon die kompleksiteit van terreurbedreigings, aangesien die Algemene Vergadering debat vyfde dag in die wêreld betree
GA / 12072
Algemene Vergadering Plenaire vergadering
Sewentiende Sessie, 14de en 15de Vergaderings (AM & PM)
Sprekers noem ook diplomatieke deurbrake in Afrika, Koreaanse Skiereiland
] Wêreldleiers het die voortgesette dreigemente van terrorisme en kuberveiligheid beklemtoon, terwyl hulle die beskerming van waardevolle beginsels soos persvryheid en vreedsame verkiesingsprosedures onderstreep. Die algemene vergadering van die Algemene Vergadering het sy vyfde dag ingeskryf.
Indië se minister van buitelandse sake, Sushma Swaraj , wat beklemtoon dat terroriste volgens die internasionale reg aanspreeklik moet wees, onthou dat haar land in 1996 'n konsepdokument voorgestel het oor die omvattende konvensie oor internasionale terrorisme in die Verenigde Nasies, 'n konvensie wat nog nie uitgewerk is nie. Sy het ook kommer uitgespreek oor die teenwoordigheid van terrorisme oor die westelike grens van haar land, en gesê: "Ons buurvrou se kundigheid is nie beperk tot die speerplek vir terrorisme nie; Dit is ook 'n kenner om onregverdigheid met verbale duplikasie te probeer verdoesel. "Sy het ook die gedagte verwerp dat haar land vredespraatjies saboteer en daarop let dat wanneer gesprekke gestaak is, dit weens Pakistan se gedrag was.
Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister van Buitelandse Sake van Pakistan, het beklemtoon dat sy land 'n verhouding met Indië wou hê, gebaseer op soewereine gelykheid en wedersydse respek. Tog het Indië "politiek oor vrede verkies", het hy gesê. Hy het die onlangse verslag van die Kantoor van die Hoë Kommissaris vir Menseregte (OHCHR) aangehaal, wat grootskaalse regte-oortredings in Indië-besette Kasjmir getoon het. Daarbenewens het Pakistan terrorisme gefinansier en georkestreer deur Indië. Hy het die hoop uitgespreek dat daar 'n nuwe konsensus oor vrede, sekuriteit en ontwikkeling sou wees. Hy het ook twee maande gelede die verkiesings van sy land beklemtoon, waar die volk vir hervorming gestem het. Hy het gekies vir 'n medelydende, vreedsame en prinsipiële Pakistan.
Ministers van lande direk getref deur terrorisme, het hul perspektiewe op dreigende bedreigings en maniere om hulle uit te stamp, gedeel.
Walid Al-Moualem, minister van buitelandse sake en uitgewekenes van Sirië, het gefokus op die bedreiging van terrorisme in sy land en daarop gewys dat dit meer is as sewe jaar sedert die begin van die vuil oorlog teen Sirië. 'N buite-egtelike internasionale koalisie is aan die voorpunt van die stryd teen terrorisme in Sirië, maar hulle lei militêre steun aan terroriste. Hy het ook die aandag gevestig op die aktiwiteite van die "White Helmets" en noem dit 'n terreurorganisasie wat deur Britse intelligensie geskep is onder 'n humanitêre dekking. Die organisasie, deel van die Al-Qaida-geaffilieerde Nusrah Front, was 'n belangrike hulpmiddel in 'n openbare misinformasie-veldtog wat beskuldigings op die gebruik van chemiese wapens gemaak het. Sy regering bly verbind tot die politieke proses, maar sal nie sy nasionale beginsels in die gedrang bring nie, het hy gesê.
Ahmed Awad Isse, minister van buitelandse sake van Somalië, het gesê dat sy administrasie sedert sy amp en ' vorder in die hervorming van die veiligheidsektor en politieke en ekonomiese transformasie, maar is tog bewus van die groot uitdagings wat voorlê, veral om terrorisme te oorkom. Nuwe padnetwerke en toevoerroetes is oopgemaak, bevrydende dorpe en dorpe van Al-Shabaab. Hy beklemtoon die belangrikheid van 'n veelsydige sekuriteitsbenadering. Hy het gesê dat die regering en sy vennote militêre ontwrigting van terroristiese uitstortings het, terwyl hulle ook godsdienstige leiers, ouderlinge, jeug, vroue en burgerlike samelewingsgroepe aangespreek het om die gedraaide ideologie van haat en godsdienstige onverdraagsaamheid te keer.
. Al-Shabaab is nie meer aantreklik vir jong mans en vroue nie. Hy het gesê dat beide hierdie groep en Al-Qaida nie meer 'n klomp nuwe en vrywillige rekrute in Somalië het nie. Sommige het die aanbod van amnestie aanvaar, geweld veroordeel en vreedsaam oorgegee. Senior bevelvoerders, voormalige sektorhoofde en infanteriste het ook onvoorwaardelik oorgegee, die terreurnetwerk se logistieke en beplanningsvermoëns verswak. Die regering werk nou saam met burgerlike netwerke om die oorblywende terroriste uit te spoel.
In dieselfde sin het Alpha Barry, minister van buitelandse sake en internasionale samewerking van Burkina Faso, diep kommer uitgespreek oor die verspreiding van terrorisme wat na gebiede wat grens aan Côte Ivoorkus, Ghana, Niger, Benin en Togo. Om die bedreiging van aanvalle te bestry, mobiliseer die regering alle hulpbronne. Ongelukkig gebruik terroriste tans geïmproviseerde plofbare toestelle en fokus burgers, dwing sluiting van 520 skole en ontneem 56,000 studente van hul reg op onderwys. Die aanvalle het egter die land se eenheid, solidariteit en vasberadenheid versterk om sy waardes te verdedig. Een ding is seker: geen land kan self terrorisme beveg nie, het hy verklaar.
Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, minister van buitelandse sake en internasionale samewerking van Verenigde Arabiese Emirate, het die geleentheid gegun om 'n ander soort terreur bedreiging aan te bied. streek, dié van die verspreiding van ekstremistiese en terroriste groepe deur die uitbuiting van moderne tegnologie. Die situasie word vererger deur lande wat mediaverkope vestig wat haat aanhits. Sy regering is egter aan die voorpunt van die stryd teen sulke ekstremisme, insluitend deelname aan die Forum vir Bevordering van Vrede in Moslem Samelewings, wat werk om 'n alliansie van Abrahamse godsdienste en wêreldfilosofieë te bou.
Die Minister van Buitelandse Sake van Singapoer, Vivian Balakrishnan, het ook die aandag gevestig op die opkoms van gesamentlike en geteikende kuberaanvalle. Die internasionale gemeenskap moes 'n betroubare en oop kuberruimte ontwikkel wat deur die internasionale reg gesteun is. In Julie is 'n gesondheidsdatabasis in sy land onderworpe aan 'n gesofistikeerde kuberaanval. Dit het plaasgevind ten spyte van die feit dat Singapoer in 2017 deur die Internasionale Telekommunikasie-unie as die nasie wat die meeste toegewyd is aan kuberveiligheid, is. Singapoer staan ​​gereed om die Verenigde Nasies te help as dit gewerk het om reëls en norme op hierdie gebied te ontwikkel, het hy gesê.
Ook die kommunikasieprobleem, Edgars Rinkēvičs, minister van buitelandse sake van Letland, het die belangrikheid van die Persvryheid, wat hy gesê het, was noodsaaklik vir vrede en vir geregtigheid. In daardie stadium het hy die regering van die Russiese Federasie aangespoor om die Oekraïense rolprentmaker Oleg Sentsov te laat vaar en het Myanmar versoek om Wa Lone en Kyaw Soe Oo, twee joernaliste van Reuters, vry te laat. Hy het ook beklemtoon dat alle nasies hul verpligtinge onder die internasionale reg moet nakom, veral met betrekking tot vryheid van uitdrukking en vryheid van vergadering.
Daar was ook aankondigings van diplomatieke deurbrake en politieke vooruitgang. Ri Yong Ho, minister van buitelandse sake van die Demokratiese Volksrepubliek van Korea, het beklemtoon dat pogings aangewend word vir 'n nuwe vrede op die Koreaanse Skiereiland. Voorsitter Kim Jong Un het energieke diplomatieke aktiwiteite gedoen met die doel om die Skiereiland in 'n land van vrede vry te maak van kernwapens. Vordering is gemaak in beide Noord-Suid-verhoudings sowel as tussen die Demokratiese Volksrepubliek van Korea en die Verenigde State. "Die Koreaanse Skiereiland, die warmste plek in die wêreld, sal die wieg van vrede en voorspoed word," het hy gesê.
Ezéchiel Nibigira, minister van buitelandse sake en internasionale samewerking van Burundi, het gepraat van sy land se nuwe grondwet wat gehad het Op 17 Mei is 'n vreedsame referendum plaasgevind. In Augustus het 'n vergadering van alle politieke partye uitgeloop op 'n padkaart na vrye, inklusiewe en vreedsame verkiesings in 2020. Inderdaad, die situasie in sy land het nou teruggekeer na 'n gevoel van normaliteit en is "kalm, stabiel en heeltemal onder beheer" het hy gesê dat dit 'n aanslag was wat ook deur die spesiale gesant van die sekretaris-generaal en die Veiligheidsraad gedeel is.
Intussen het Osman Saleh Mohammed, minister van buitelandse sake van Eritrea, die onlangse vrede beklemtoon. ooreenkoms tussen Eritrea en sy land wat twee dekades van die oorlog geëindig het. "Hierdie historiese ooreenkoms sal beide lande toelaat om hul hulpbronne, potensiële en positiewe energie net vir die broodnodige ontwikkeling te trek," het hy gesê. Hy het gesê dat die akkoord reeds hoop en optimisme gegee het, terwyl dit 'n positiewe rol speel in die bevordering van streeks vrede en sekuriteit.
Ook vandag was die hoofde van die staat en die regering en senior ministers van Papoea-Nieu-Guinee, Oman, Algerië, Suriname, San Marino, Filippyne, Oostenryk, Bahrein, Brunei, Trinidad en Tobago, Turkmenistan, Tsjeggië, die Demokratiese Republiek van Laos Belize, Sao Tome en Principe, Senegal, Niger, Dominika, Kongo en Grenada.
In die uitoefening van die reg van antwoord was die verteenwoordigers van Qatar, Indië, Verenigde Arabiese Emirate, Bahrain en Pakistan.
Verklarings  EDGARS RINKĒVIČS, minister van buitelandse sake van Letland, het gesê dat die einde van die Eerste Wêreldoorlog die geboorte van 'n nuwe Europa gemerk het wat selfbeskikking, demokrasie en voorspoed belowe het. ty vir sy burgers met die stigting van die Volkebond. Die Sowjet- en Nazi-beroepe van Letland en baie van die Europese vasteland is egter 'n harde herinnering aan wat gebeur wanneer ernstige oortredings van die internasionale reg geduld word. Die Russiese Federasie, die amptelike opvolger van die Sowjetunie, erken steeds nie goed gedokumenteerde feite van die geskiedenis nie. Hy het 'n beroep gedoen op die land om die waarheid te omhels en die optrede van die Sowjet-Unie duidelik te veroordeel en by te voeg dat die beskerming van menseregte noodsaaklik was vir Letland se oorgang na 'n demokratiese samelewing.
Die Verenigde Nasies moet in staat wees om menseregte te verdedig in enige situasie, dit is die bombardement van burgerlikes in Sirië of die vervolging van Krim-Tartare deur die Russiese owerhede, het hy voortgegaan. Veiligheid en menseregte gaan hand in hand. 'N vrye pers is noodsaaklik vir vrede en geregtigheid en hy het die Russiese Federasie aangemoedig om onwettige aangehoue ​​Oekraïens rolprentmaker Oleg Sentsov, wat vandag 139 van sy hongerstaking vandag betree, vry te stel. Hy het ook 'n beroep op Myanmar-owerhede gedoen om die twee Reuters-joernaliste, Wa Lone en Kyaw Soe Oo, vry te stel. Alle nasies moet voldoen aan hul verpligtinge ingevolge die internasionale reg en menseregte, veral ten opsigte van vryheid van uitdrukking en vryheid van samekoms, wat veral die afgelope jaar versleg het.
Hy het sy steun uitgespreek vir die hervormingsproses wat deur die Sekretaris-generaal op die gebied van vrede en sekuriteit, ontwikkeling en bestuur en dat die hervormings vinnig geïmplementeer moet word. "Dit is 'n unieke organisasie met 'n swaar verantwoordelikheid," het hy beklemtoon. Hy het gesê dat die hervorming van die Veiligheidsraad lankal agterstallig is. Die stalemate behoort egter nie die vordering van die ander te belemmer nie. Die Menseregte Raad moet sterk, doeltreffend en in staat wees om vinnig te reageer op ernstige menseregteskendings in enige deel van die wêreld. Letland is besig met die verbetering van die doeltreffendheid van die Raad, het hy gesê en bygevoeg dat 'n voorkomingsgerigte Verenigde Nasies selfs belangriker is, aangesien konflikte en krisisse wat nie voorkom word nie, geneig is om te trek oor jare en dekades.
Geen nasie nie was altyd in isolasie veilig, het hy daarop gewys dat die lidstaten verantwoordelikheid vir mekaar se veiligheid het. Verder, aan die begin van die twintigste eeu, het vegters 90 persent van konflikverwante ongevalle uitgemaak. Vandag is 90 persent van die slagoffers burgerlikes. Hy roep alle lande op om partye by die wapenhandelverdrag te word. Hy het beklemtoon dat die toekoms van multilateralisme meer sal afhang van veranderinge in die houding van die lidstaten as by hervormings van die organisasie se stelsel. "Ons moet die Verenigde Nasies erken vir wat dit is. Dit is nie perfek nie, "het hy gesê. Desondanks bly dit steeds 'n noodsaaklike instrument vir die instandhouding van vrede, ekonomiese ontwikkeling en kodifikasie van internasionale wette.
RIMBINK PATO, minister van buitelandse sake van Papoea-Nieu-Guinee, het gesê dat sy land die ekonomiese en ekonomiese samewerking tussen Asië en die Stille Oseaan sal aanbied (APEC) Forum en kom op die globale toneel soos nooit tevore nie. As die grootste eiland van die Stille Oseaan-eiland, word Papoea-Nieu-Guinee, met sy ryk natuurlike hulpbronne, by ander lande in die streek aangesluit om die see te beskerm. Die forum poog om voorspoed deur handel te bevorder, die omgewing te beskerm, bevordering van inklusiewe beleidmaking en die bevordering van geslagsgelykheid. Verder is internasionale handel 'n belangrike enjin vir inklusiewe ekonomiese groei en uitwissing van armoede, het hy gesê. Hy beweer dat die multilaterale handelsstelsel op die reëls gebaseer is.
Die vier-en-veertigste herdenking van Papua-Nieu-Guinee se onafhanklikheid word gekenmerk. ekonomiese en strukturele hervormings te konsolideer; Die land se ekonomiese vooruitsigte is positief. Die 2030-agenda vir Volhoubare Ontwikkeling is 'n goeie pad na verbeterde lewensbestaan. Sy Regering erken die belangrikheid om die boustene wat nodig is om inklusiewe en deelnemende ontwikkeling in te stel, in plek te bring. Die skep van werksgeleenthede is noodsaaklik om die behoeftes van die land se jeug aan te spreek. Daarbenewens is een van die grootste uitdagings wat die land in die gesig staar, verseker dat vroue en meisies volle gelykheid geniet. Daarvoor is daar wetgewing ingestel om geslagsgebaseerde geweld te bekamp.
Gelei deur die ooreenkoms van Parys, bevestig streeksleiers hul sterk verbintenis om saam te werk om die negatiewe gevolge van klimaatsverandering te bekamp, ​​het hy voortgegaan. Papoea-Nieu-Guinee het onlangs 'n tragiese en ongekende aardbewing ervaar wat byna 200 mense vermoor en 600 000 ontwortel het. Die gebeurtenis vernietig belangrike infrastruktuur en het gelei tot 'n ekonomiese verlangsaming, het hy opgemerk, dankie aan internasionale vennote wat hulp verleen het en help om rampreaksieplanne te herstel. Hy het ook die pogings aangewend om klimaatsfinansiering in die Groen Klimaatfonds aan te vul, en beklemtoon dat verbeterde toegang tot finansiering veral belangrik is vir klein eiland ontwikkelende lande.
Papoea-Nieu-Guinee bly verbind tot die 2019-referendum in die outonome streek Bougainville soos uiteengesit in die Bougainville-vredesooreenkoms. Sy regering verwelkom die verslapping van spanning in die Koreaanse skiereiland en prys pogings om vreedsame dialoog aan te moedig. Hy het gesê dat die eiland se migrerende verwerkingsentrum verlede jaar amptelik gesluit is en dat pogings aangewend word om gekwalifiseerde asielzoekers te hervestig. Daar word ook pogings aangewend om onwettige, ongereguleerde en ongerapporteerde visvang in die land se territoriale waters te bestry. Die Pacific Islands Forum is besig om die streek se mariene grense te beveilig en mariene rommel te elimineer. Hy het die internasionale gemeenskap aangemoedig om betrokke te raak by die Stille Oseaan-eilandstate volgens die aanvaarde internasionale norme, sodat die streek gekenmerk kan word deur stabiliteit en sekuriteit.
YOUSUF BIN ALAWI BIN ABDALLAH, minister van buitelandse sake van Oman, het gesê dat die werk van die Verenigde State Nasies moet fokus op die oplossing van internasionale geskille en die bereiking van vrede. Om die dialoog en onderhandelinge te onderstreep, is die mees geskikte middel om verskille op te los. Hy het beklemtoon dat sy land geen moeite sal spaar om die inisiatiewe te ondersteun wat vrede en stabiliteit in die Midde-Ooste en die wêreld sal versprei nie.
Vrede is 'n sentrale bousteen vir ontwikkeling, en die Palestynse vraag is die sentrale probleem vir die Midde-Ooste, het hy gesê. Die samewerking van die internasionale gemeenskap met die skep van 'n bevorderlike omgewing om die betrokke partye te help oplos, is 'n kwessie van strategiese dringendheid. Ten spyte van die dooiepunt in die proses, is dit belangrik om gunstige voorwaardes te skep vir die twee partye om 'n skikking te bereik wat gebaseer is op die twee-state-oplossing. As die Palestynse staat nie gevestig is nie, sal daar geen einde aan die siklus van geweld wees nie. Hy het 'n beroep gedoen op die lande van die wêreld, veral die Verenigde State, om die toekoms van hierdie saak te oorweeg.
Die lyding van Jemen is die gevolg van die ineenstorting van die infrastruktuur, insluitende gesondheid, opvoeding en ander belangrike dienste wat die dag- tot-dag-lewe van burgers, het hy voortgegaan. Die internasionale gemeenskap moet sy pogings om dié land te help, verdubbel, het hy gesê. Hy verwelkom die pogings van die Verenigde Nasies en die lande van die Arabiese koalisie om 'n humanitêre mediese luglift te vestig vir pasiënte met kritiese toestande om behoorlike mediese behandeling onder beskerming van die Verenigde State te ontvang. nasies. Hy het ook steun uitgespreek vir die pogings van die spesiale gesant na Jemen. Die politieke oplossing moet die realiteit in Jemen in ag neem en alle partye moet die geleentheid kry om 'n voorspoedige toekoms vir hul land te bied.
Hy het die pogings van die spesiale gesant na Sirië geluk om partye te help bou op pogings om die oorlog en bereik 'n versoening wat die konflik beëindig. Hy was ook ingeneem met die positiewe ontwikkelinge in die Afrika-horingstreek en die begrip wat die state in die streek bereik het en het steun uitgespreek vir die pogings van die president van Ethiopië en die deurslaggewende rol van sy land wat bydra tot stabiliteit in die Afrika-horing. Hy het sy land se oproep aan alle lande van die wêreld herhaal om aan die beginsels van die Verenigde Nasies se Handves te voldoen en om verskille deur vreedsame middele aan te spreek.
SUSHMA SWARAJ, minister van buitelandse sake van Indië, het beklemtoon hoe haar land ongekende ekonomiese ontwikkeling begin het en sosiale transformasies om die Volhoubare Ontwikkelingsdoelwitte te bereik. Indië het die wêreld se grootste finansiële insluiting, gesondheidsversekering en behuisingskemas geïmplementeer – wat miljoene sal baat – sowel as entrepreneurskap en vaardigheidsontwikkelingsprogramme. Hierdie inisiatiewe het in sy kern die welsyn van vroue, het sy beklemtoon, en bygevoeg dat sommige ontwikkelde lande met groot ekonomieë net ses weke van verlof bied. Die vroue sal ses en twintig weke onder 'n nuwe nasionale skema kry.
Onderontwikkelde en ontwikkelende lande is die ergste slagoffers van klimaatsverandering, het sy voortgegaan, onderstreep dat "diegene wat die natuur uitgebuit het vir hul onmiddellike behoeftes, nie hul verantwoordelikhede kan ophef nie". Ontwikkelde lande moet die behoeftiges ophef met finansiële en tegniese hulpbronne. Die beginsel van gemeenskaplike, maar gedifferensieerde verantwoordelikhede en onderskeie vermoëns is in die 2015 Parys-ooreenkoms herhaal. Indië het gestyg tot die uitdaging, veral deur die International Solar Alliance in vennootskap met Frankryk te begin. Die Alliansie bestaan ​​nou uit 68 lede.
Terrorisme, wat die tweede bestaansbedreiging vir die mensdom verteenwoordig, word oor Indië se grens na die weste geteel, het sy gesê en bygevoeg: "Ons buurman se kundigheid is nie beperk tot die gronde van terrorisme nie; Dit is ook 'n kenner om onregverdigheid met verbale duplikasie te probeer masker. "Die feit dat Osama bin Laden, die argitek van die aanvalle van 11 September 2001, 'n veilige hawe in Pakistan gegee het, bewys dit. Uitdaging van die idee dat Indië sakelui vir vrede onderhandel, het gesê dat sulke gesprekke baie keer begin het en dat as hulle opgehou het, dit net was as gevolg van Pakistan se optrede. Haar land het Pakistan se voorstel aanvaar van 'n vergadering tussen die twee ministers van buitelandse sake in New York. Maar kort daarna het terroriste drie van haar land se jawane vermoor [junior soldiers]het sy onthou. Hulle het die idee bevraagteken dat dit 'n begeerte vir dialoog kon aandui. Verder beskuldig Pakistan Indië om menseregte te skend. Tog, "diegene wat onskuldige lewens in die uitoefening van die oorlog op ander maniere neem, is verdedigers van onmenslike gedrag, nie van menseregte nie," het sy gesê.
Sy het weer bevestig dat terroriste aanspreeklik moet wees deur internasionale reg en onderstreep dat Indië het in 1996 'n konsepdokument voorgestel oor die omvattende konvensie oor internasionale terrorisme by die Verenigde Nasies. Sy het die Algemene Vergadering versoek om 'n ooreenkoms oor hierdie ooreenkoms te bereik. Die Volkebond het inmekaargesak omdat dit nie die behoefte aan hervorming wou aanvaar nie. Die Verenigde Nasies moet nie die fout maak nie, het sy gesê. Diegene wat aanwesig is, versoek om "die instelling se kop en hart te verander om beide verenigbaar te maak met die kontemporêre realiteit."
WALID AL-MOUALEM, minister van buitelandse sake en uitgewekenes van Sirië, het gesê Dit is meer as sewe jaar sedert die begin van die vuil oorlog teen Sirië. Sy land bly verbind tot die stryd totdat alle terroriste groepe, sowel as enige onwettige buitelandse teenwoordigheid, uit Syriese gebiede gesuiwer word. Sekere state het Sirië sy reg ontken, volgens die internasionale reg, en sy nasionale plig om terrorisme te bestry en sy mense binne sy eie grense te beskerm. Terselfdertyd het hierdie regerings 'n onwettige internasionale koalisie gevorm, onder leiding van die Verenigde State, ter wille van die stryd teen terrorisme. Die sogenaamde koalisie het alles gedoen behalwe terrorisme. Dit het duidelik geword dat die koalisie se doelwitte in volmaakte belyning met die terroriste groepe is, en die militêre ondersteuning aan terroriste meervoudig toegedien word terwyl hulle die Siriese leër geveg het.
Die situasie is vandag stabieler en veiliger danksy vordering wat gemaak is. opgemerk. Die regering gaan voort om die gebiede wat deur terroriste vernietig is, te herstel, om normale wederkoms te herstel. Voorwaardes is nou teenwoordig vir die vrywillige terugkeer van Siriese vlugtelinge. Danksy die Russiese Federasie sal die Siriese regering geen moeite spaar om die terugkeer van daardie vlugtelinge te vergemaklik en aan hul basiese behoeftes te voldoen nie. 'N Spesiale komitee is onlangs ingestel om die terugkeer van vlugtelinge na Sirië te koördineer en hulle te help om hul lewens te herwin. Sirië het die internasionale gemeenskap en humanitêre organisasies versoek om hierdie opbrengste te vergemaklik. Sommige Westerse lande bly egter steeds die terugkeer van vlugtelinge. Hulle versprei irrasionele vrese onder vlugtelinge en politiseer dit wat 'n suiwer humanitêre aangeleentheid moet wees.
Aangesien Sirië vorentoe beweeg teen terrorisme, wederopbouw en die terugkeer van vlugtelinge, bly dit verbind tot die politieke proses sonder om sy nasionale beginsels in die gedrang te bring, het hy voortgegaan. Dit sluit in die behoud van die soewereiniteit, onafhanklikheid en territoriale eenheid van Sirië, die beskerming van die eksklusiewe regte van Siriërs om die toekoms van hul land sonder eksterne inmenging te bepaal en terrorisme uit die land uit te roei. Sy regering het positief betrek in die besprekings in Genève, Astana en die Siriese nasionale dialoog in Sochi. Dit was egter altyd die ander partye wat die dialoog verwerp het en terreur en buitelandse inmenging gebruik het om hul doelwitte te bereik. Plaaslike versoening is ook aan die gang met ooreenkomste wat daarop gemik is om stabiliteit en 'n normale lewe op hierdie gebiede te herstel en mense toe te laat om terug te keer na die huise wat hulle as gevolg van terrorisme moes verlaat.
Hy het verder gesê dat Sirië heeltemal uitgeskakel is sy chemiese program en vervul sy verpligtinge as lid van die Organisasie vir Verbod op Chemiese Wapens (OPCW), soos bevestig deur verskeie OPCW verslae. Verder het Sirië altyd soveel moontlik met OPCW saamgewerk. Ongelukkig sluit elke land sy pogings elke keer wanneer sy regering sy gereedheid verklaar om objektiewe en professionele spanne te ontvang om die beweerde gebruik van chemiese wapens te ondersoek. Hulle weet dat die gevolgtrekkings van die ondersoek nie hul slegte bedoelings teenoor Sirië sal bevredig nie. Hierdie lande het gereedgemaakte beskuldigings en scenario's om hul aggressie te regverdig. Dit was die geval toe die Verenigde State, Frankryk en die Verenigde Koninkryk in April 'n onbehoorlike aggressie op Sirië begin het. Hulle het beweer dat chemiese wapens sonder gebruik was.
Hy het ook gesê dat die terroriste-organisasie bekend as die "White Helms "- geskep deur Britse intelligensie onder 'n humanitêre dekking – was die belangrikste instrument wat gebruik word om die openbare mening te mislei en beskuldigings op te stel oor die gebruik van chemiese wapens. Hierdie organisasie is deel van die Al-Qaida-geaffilieerde Nusrah Front. Ten spyte van alle bewerings bly Syrië verbind om sy hele grondgebied te bevry sonder om bekommerd te wees oor die swart baniere van terroriste of die teater van die Withelms. Intussen steun die Turkse regime terroriste in Sirië. Dit het opgeleide en gewapende terroriste, draai Turkye in 'n spilpunt en 'n gang vir terroriste op pad na Sirië. Israel gaan voort om 'n deel van die land in die Siriese Golan te okkupeer en die Siriese mense gaan voort om te ly as gevolg van die onderdrukkende en aggressiewe beleid. Israel ondersteun selfs terroriste groepe wat in die suide van Sirië werk. Hy het ook sterk die veroordeling van die regering van die Verenigde State veroordeel om van die Iraanse kernooreenkoms te onttrek, wat weer die Verenigde State se verontagsaming van internasionale verdrae en konvensies bewys.
RI YONG HO, Minister van Buitelandse Sake van die Demokratiese Volksrepubliek van Korea, het opgemerk dat vrede en ontwikkeling wat wêreldwyd bedreig word, ook nuut geskep word op die Koreaanse Skiereiland. Kameraad Kim Jong Un, voorsitter van die staatskommissie van sy land, het in April vanjaar 'n nuwe strategie voorgestel wat alle pogings tot die sosialistiese ekonomiese wederopbouw konsentreer. Omdat sy land genoegsame nasionale verdedigingsvermoëns gekonsolideer het, is die regering besig om ekonomiese konstruksie te bewerkstellig en dit vereis 'n vreedsame omgewing. Kameraad-voorsitter Kim Jong Un het energieke top-diplomatieke aktiwiteite gedoen met 'n vaste besluit om die Koreaanse Skiereiland in 'n land van vrede vry te maak van beide kernwapens en bedreigings, en sodoende 'n belangrike deurbraak in die verbetering van Noord-Suid-verhoudings en verhoudings tussen die Demokratiese Volksrepubliek van Korea en die Verenigde State.
Die sleutel tot die bevordering van vrede en sekuriteit op die Koreaanse Skiereiland is om die gesamentlike verklaring wat in Junie op die historiese beraad in Singapoer aangeneem is, deeglik te implementeer, het hy beklemtoon. Daardie verklaring bevat alle kwessies rakende oplossings soos die beëindiging van die dekades lange vyandigheid tussen die twee lande en die vestiging van nuwe verhoudings tussen die Demokratiese Volksrepubliek van Korea en die Verenigde State wat daarop gemik is om 'n soliede vredesregime op die Skiereiland te vestig, terwyl hulle die volledige denuclearisering besef. Sodra dit geïmplementeer word, en deur alle belanghebbendes gesamentlike pogings aangewend word om die hindernisse van wantroue op te los en vertroue te herbou, sal die huidige neiging tot détente tot duursame vrede lei. "Die Koreaanse Skiereiland, die warmste plek in die wêreld, sal die wieg van vrede en voorspoed word," het hy gesê.
Selfs voor die top het sy regering beduidende welsynsmaatreëls getref, soos die stop van kern- en interkontinentale ballistiese missiel toetse, aftakeling die kerntoetsplek op 'n deursigtige wyse en bevestig dat hy onder geen omstandighede kernwapens en -tegnologie oorplaas nie, het hy voortgegaan. "Ons sien egter nie 'n ooreenstemmende reaksie van die Verenigde State nie," het hy gesê. Hy het sy inset op denuclearisering in die eerste plek, asook sy toenames tot die vlak van druk deur sanksies, opgemerk. "Die persepsie dat sanksies ons op ons knieë kan bring, is 'n pypdroom," het hy gesê. Hy het bygevoeg dat die onlangse dooiepunt is omdat die Verenigde State staatmaak op dwangmetodes wat dodelik is om vertroue te bou.
In minder as vyf maande , die leiers van die Demokratiese Volksrepubliek van Korea en die Republiek van Korea het drie keer ontmoet en deur hul vergaderings en gesprekke het hulle vertroue in mekaar gebring, het hy daarop gewys. Die dialoog op baie gebiede, insluitende politiek, militêre, humanitêre werk en sport, is baie aktief, en die atmosfeer van versoening is hoog soos nooit tevore nie. As die party tot die ontkennende kwessie die Republiek van Korea en nie die Verenigde State was nie, sou die ontkernisasie van die Koreaanse Skiereiland nie tot so 'n dooiepunt gekom het nie. Die Verenigde State, wat voor sy land kernwapens gehad het, is die enigste land wat hulle in oorlog gebruik het. "Ons het nie eens 'n klipsteen op die Verenigde State se grond gegooi tydens die Koreaanse oorlog nie," het hy gesê, maar die Verenigde State het gedreig om atoombomme in sy land te laat val en het steeds strategiese kernarsenale tot sy voordeur gebring. Op hierdie kritieke tydstip het hy bygevoeg dat die Verenigde State 'n vooropgestelde oordeel moet maak dat die implementering van die toewyding in Singapoer in sy beste nasionale belange sal wees.
Om sy regering se nuwe beleidslyn te konsentreer om alle pogings op ekonomiese konstruksie te konsentreer, het hy noem dit die regte politieke keuse, nie net om mense se lewens in die land te verbeter nie, maar ook om die gemeenskaplike begeerte van mense in die wêreld vir vrede te besef. Hy het bygevoeg dat die Verenigde Nasies 'n rol speel in die implementering van die gesamentlike verklaring van die Demokratiese Volksrepubliek van Korea en die Verenigde State. Die Veiligheidsraad wat eenkeer so gretig was om "besorgdheid" uit te spreek oor die gespanne situasie in die Koreaanse Skiereiland, hou nou stil oor die kosbare momentum vir vrede daar. Erger nog, die Raad verwerp die voorstel deur sommige van sy lidlande om 'n presidensiële verklaring uit te reik wat die top en die verklaring verwelkom. Hy het gesê die Verenigde Nasies versoek om ontwikkelings te ondersteun wat nuttig is om internasionale vrede te verseker.
ABDELKADER MESSAHEL, minister van buitelandse sake van Algerië, het gesê wêreldwye kommer oor kernwapens was nog nooit so groot sedert die koue oorlog nie. Klimaatverandering ontwikkel vinniger as wat die internasionale gemeenskap kan reageer en ongelykheid neem toe. Nasionalisme en vreemdelinge haat word erger. Die erns van hierdie uitdagings word verhoog deur 'n finansiële krisis wat nog steeds teenwoordig is. Dit is selfs meer kommerwekkend as gevolg van die opkoms van unilateralisme en proteksionistiese begeertes. Die internasionale gemeenskap kan hom nie bevredig met die voortbestaan ​​van die wêreldorde wat nie meer universele waardes van vrede en ontwikkeling bevorder nie. Eerder as om by te dra tot die verbetering van die lewens van mense, word finansiële hulpbronne in die hande van die paar gekonsentreer. Daar word 'n werklike wêreldwye morele krisis in die gesig gestaar. The theme for the seventy‑third session is particularly appropriate. Today, the United Nations must find a way to enable it to play the role that its founders assigned it.
The United Nations remains the forum for dialogue among all nations, but it must also provide the changes that are necessary to bring this about, he said. The reform of the United Nations itself is imperative and it must relate to the structures as well as the functioning of the Organization, particularly the Security Council and repairing the injustice done to the African continent in terms of representation in the two categories of members for the Council. The reform must also take into account the General Assembly and the strengthening of its authority. There is an ever greater consensus around this issue.
With regard to the Western Sahara, he said that resolving the issue cannot be done other than through the exercise of self‑determination by the people there. His Government supports the work of the Secretary‑General and the Special Envoy and he hopes that their action will contribute to the resumption of unconditional negotiations between Morocco and the Polisario Front to arrive at a mutually acceptable solution.
Algeria was the first target of terrorism at the turn of the last century, he noted. Now that threat has become a global scourge. Algeria’s experience, which his country is prepared to share, is based on the belief that any strategy to combat terrorism must address its root causes and must be accompanied by a fight against radicalization and violent extremism.
YLDIZ POLLACK-BEIGLE, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Suriname, said a rules‑based world order with the United Nations at its centre is needed to address global concerns. Noting that the mitigation of climate change requires the mobilization of funds, she pointed out that Suriname is among the most threatened countries that are directly impacted by the rise of sea levels. Approximately 80 per cent of its population resides in the coastal area, where its main productive activities are also concentrated. The forces of nature which recently struck again in the Caribbean and elsewhere are evidence the international community must move beyond the rhetoric and take immediate action.
As a commodity‑based export economy, Suriname is facing economic challenges, she noted. The downturn in gold and oil prices three years ago and the closure of the century‑old bauxite operations in 2016 have caused the economy to contract. The Government lost a third of its fiscal revenue. It put in place significant reforms that have borne fruit, but the country still faces obstacles that are unjustifiable, notably its classification as a middle‑income country. This classification based on gross domestic product (GDP) per capita does not reflect her country’s vulnerabilities. “We strongly reject this unrealistic classification which disregards the full set of challenges that we face,” she stated. Underlining that access to concessional financing is critical, she said an atmosphere of trust and political will is crucial to address all matters of concern through dialogue.
Suriname contributes significantly to the mitigation of the effects of climate change through its high forest cover and low deforestation rate, she pointed out. Yet, global commitments based on the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities have yet to be materialized. What is more, Suriname does not fully benefit from global arrangements associated with sound forest management even though it stores 18 per cent of tropical forest carbon. In that context, her country will host a high‑level conference on climate finance mobilization in February 2019, aiming to initiate and implement new models of eco‑sustainability to improve the quality of life for all.
Due to its open borders, Suriname is strengthening its cooperation with adjacent and other countries to effectively combat transnational organized crime and its consequences, she continued. International cooperation has been solicited to protect her country’s unique biodiversity that is threatened by poaching and the illegal trade in endangered species. Regarding trade, she said it is reprehensible that economically powerful countries resort to unilateral sanctions when they encounter ideological, political or trade differences, and voiced disapproval for the continuation of the financial and commercial embargo against Cuba and its people. Reaffirming that multilateralism remains essential, she stressed the need to make the United Nations more relevant by making it more democratic, transparent and accountable.
NICOLA RENZI, Minister for Foreign and Political Affairs of San Marino, said global developments are putting multilateralism at risk at a time when Member States must work together to adopt common and coordinated policies. San Marino believes that the United Nations — with its deeply democratic nature, its universal participation and its undisputed legitimacy — must increase its leadership role in managing global governance. He reiterated his country’s support for the Secretary‑General’s reforms, saying they will strengthen the Organization’s ability to produce more concrete results.
The Security Council’s inability to intervene in Syria and other conflict areas has undermined the United Nations’ credibility, he said, reiterating San Marino’s position that permanent members not use their power of veto in decisions involving genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. Emphasizing the relationship between peace and development, he said there remain strong inequalities in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, within and between countries. The principle of leaving no one behind requires specific measures to support those living in vulnerable situations.
He emphasized the need for children to grow up free of all forms of abuse and exploitation, as well as the importance of respecting international humanitarian law and human rights law in conflict situations. Gender equality must be translated into equality in educational opportunities, particularly in scientific areas. He added that San Marino is contributing at the international level to efforts aimed at combating the increasingly dangerous phenomenon of fake news, which is deceptive, uncontrolled and liable to incite hatred and to nurture prejudice.
As well, persons with disabilities and the elderly must be guaranteed full participation in social, economic and cultural life, he continued. Climate change is a global problem that needs globally coordinated solutions, including more international cooperation to help developing countries move towards a low‑emission economy. He added that implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration — “a clear example of what multilateralism can do” — will bring greater security, order and economic progress to the benefit of all.
KARIN KNEISSL, Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs of Austria, speaking in Arabic, French, Spanish and English, described multilateralism as a sophisticated form of diplomacy. She warned against favouring fine statements over action, losing contact with reality and losing the meaning of an exchange of views. All too often, multilateralism fades into a flurry of meetings that some rich diplomats turn into a comfortable game, with hackneyed arguments about conflict zones where people are just trying to survive. That is why Austria, with other countries, will contribute to mine clearance in Syria and increase its humanitarian commitment to Yemen. Condemning the use of chemical weapons in Syria and elsewhere, and rejecting biological weapons, she said there is no reason not to categorially ban the production and use of chemical weapons.
Noting the fiftieth anniversary of the Treaty on the Non‑Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which has suffered from inadequate implementation, she said disarmament treaties are not a moral matter, but a legal issue. Genuine progress must be made on the path to nuclear disarmament, with ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear‑Test‑Ban Treaty being of paramount importance. Describing her country as a steadfast supporter of the International Criminal Court, she welcomed the extension of the crime of aggression to its jurisdiction but regretted that its work is undermined by non‑surrender agreements.
Noting that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action was negotiated in Vienna, she said its preservation is a matter of respecting international agreements and, in the end, a matter of international security. Mutual trust is weakened if one of its parties walks away from it unilaterally. Emphasizing Austria’s focus on the women, peace and security agenda, the political and economic empowerment of women and the fight against gender‑based violence, she said multilateralism has failed millions of women around the world. The international community must stand up against female genital mutilation.
Turning to the Middle East, she said the collapse of the Ottoman Empire created a new map of the region based on pipelines, with recent wars fought in the name of oil. Syria is the victim of instability created by those wars, she said, emphasizing that it is time for courageous steps towards a diplomatic solution. In that regard, she encouraged decision‑makers from Washington to Moscow, via Tehran, Jerusalem, Ankara and Damascus, to seize the momentum, for which there is no alternative.
SHAIKH KHALID BIN AHMED AL-KHALIFA, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bahrain, said his country, keen to implement programmes, plans to keep up with international efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and raise the standards of living for its citizens. His country has succeeded in mitigating the impact of economic challenges, allowing it to become one of the fastest‑growing economies in the region. Further, Bahrain’s election to the Committee on Non‑Governmental Organizations for 2019‑2022 reflects international appreciation for its policies that consolidate rights and liberties and contribute to the advancement of the objectives and purposes of the United Nations. In addition, his country has put forward its candidacy to become a member of the Human Rights Council for 2019‑2021.
Achieving lasting peace, security and sustainable development in the countries of his region is a collective responsibility, he stressed. However, the Iranian regime aspires to impose its hegemony on the region by “packaging and exporting its miserable revolution under which the Iranian people suffer from tyranny, oppression and injustice”, he stated. The extremist ideology it disseminates is threatening the ambitions and aspirations of people who have coexisted for many centuries. In addition, at a time where it is imperative to establish common mechanisms for collective security, Qatar is another impediment threatening security and stability in the region through its dangerous tendency to spread and feed terrorism. He expressed hope that it will respond to the conditions put forth by Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Egypt — conditions consistent with international law, and the principles of good neighbourliness, mutual respect, and respect for the sovereignty and independence of States.
He welcomed the United States’ efforts in that regard, notably their cooperation to create the Middle East Strategic Alliance and their strategy vis‑à‑vis the Iranian regime. Iran must end its occupation of the United Arab Emirates islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb and Abu Musa and must seriously respond to the Emiratis’ efforts to restore their sovereignty on their territory. Iran should also seek resolution of this issue through the International Court of Justice. Regarding the situation in Palestine, he said “Jerusalem must remain, as it has always been, the historic symbol of coexistence and harmony among religions”, emphasizing the importance of the commitment not to alter the legal status of East Jerusalem. The international community must act to put an end to all Israeli measures concerning the inhabitants of Jerusalem, sacred sites, and places of worship.
He expressed hope that Iraq will resume its leading role in its Arab, regional and international environment. It is necessary that regional interference in Iraqi internal affairs, particularly that of Iran, come to an end. He reiterated support for all efforts towards the reconstruction of the State and the unification of the military in Libya. This would enable the army to protect the country and confront terrorism while preserving its unity and territorial integrity. In addition, he stressed that his country stands by Morocco against the flagrant Iranian plotting and interference in its internal affairs. It also supports Morocco’s serious and credible efforts to reach a solution regarding the Moroccan Sahara, based on the Moroccan initiative of autonomy and relevant Security Council resolutions, he added.
ERYWAN PEHIN YUSOF, Second Minister for Foreign Affairs of Brunei Darussalam, noting the increasing geopolitical and geo‑economic uncertainty, said that for a small country like his, such unpredictability can be daunting. It is crucial that the international community commit to an effective multilateralism that addresses global challenges, he said, adding that sustainable development depends on the consistency and stability underpinned by adherence to international obligations and the rule of law.
MAKHDOOM SHAH MAHMOOD QURESHI, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, noting his country’s elections two months ago, said the people had voted for reform, opting for a compassionate, peaceful and principled Pakistan. The Government is keen to pursue a policy of partnerships for peace and prosperity in its immediate neighbourhood and beyond. A peaceful environment is necessary to promote the country’s development agenda, both at the national level and in the region. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan, integrated policies and programmes have begun shaping a new Pakistan.
Observing that forces of protectionism, populism and isolationism are gaining currency, he said that intolerance is ascendant over acceptance, rhetoric over reason and power over principle. “Where the world needs bridges, we see fortifications,” he said, and “where it needs highways, we see blockades”. New forms of imperialism are emerging and multilateralism is retreating. The dark clouds of trade wars are looming larger on the horizon even as the challenges of climate change, environmental degradation, pandemics and transnational organized crime become more complex.
Pakistan desires a relationship with India that is based on sovereign equality and mutual respect, he stated. Recalling that the two countries were to meet on the sidelines of the General Assembly to talk, he said that India called off dialogue for the third time. “They preferred politics over peace,” he said, adding that for 70 years, the people of occupied Jammu and Kashmir have struggled for their rights to self‑determination in the face of oppression by the Indian occupation forces. There can be no lasting peace in South Asia without a just settlement of the Kashmir dispute, based on Security Council resolutions and the will of the Kashmiri people, he stressed. The recently released report of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) chronicles massive ongoing violations of human rights in Indian‑occupied Kashmir.
Turning to Afghanistan, he stressed that there is no military solution to the war in Afghanistan. Pakistan will continue to support an Afghan-owned and Afghan‑led process of peace and reconciliation. That country’s security has a direct spillover impact on Pakistan’s security. For the past 17 years, Pakistan has been combating terrorism, and with the deployment of 200,000 troops, it has conducted the largest and most effective counter‑terrorism campaign in the world. Further, Pakistan continues to face terrorism that is financed, facilitated and orchestrated by its eastern neighbour. India, in plain sight of the international community, perpetrates State‑sponsored terrorism, he said, expressing hope for a new consensus on peace and security and development.
DENIS MOSES, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago, said María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés’ presidency of the General Assembly is an impetus for global rethinking and acceptance of female leadership. Further, this year’s Assembly debate compels States to reflect on the nexus between the United Nations reform agenda and the shared pursuit of a sustainable future. With the push towards cost-saving reform, the Organization must not lose sight of its foundational principles. Recognizing the need to serve all people, his country developed the “Vision 2030” national development strategy, as it is imperative to ensure equal opportunities are available to the most vulnerable members of society.
Small island developing States are disproportionately affected by external shocks, he underscored, adding that the Samoa Pathway is an essential component in the development frameworks of those States. As part of efforts to achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda, regional partners are taking action to address the threat of non-communicable diseases. Climate change is the most pressing challenge of the time and casting doubt on its scientific truth delays urgent action needed to confront the existential threat. His Government is formalizing its commitment to the Paris Agreement, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 15 per cent by the year 2030 and supporting international efforts to tackle shared environmental challenges.
The labelling of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries as “non-cooperative tax jurisdictions” severely destabilizes the region’s financial sector, he warned, noting that the label stymies the region’s engagement in the global financial system. The United Nations recognizes the link between peace and development and persistent conflicts around the world are reminders of the need to promote a positive, dynamic and participatory international peace and security architecture. Illicit arms trading and transnational organized crime affect the social and economic fabric of the Caribbean, he said, noting his country’s subscription to the object and purpose of the Arms Trade Treaty.
International peace and security must be supported by a robust international legal system and Trinidad and Tobago remains a fervent supporter of the International Criminal Court, he said. The Court’s jurisdiction is only invoked when States are unable or unwilling to prosecute those accused of the most serious crimes. Efforts to strengthen multilateral peace and security will fall short unless there is real and significant reform of the Security Council so that body is able to address the challenges faced by small island developing States. The unifying power of dialogue is on full display in the Korean peninsula, he said, while voicing concern over the ongoing embargo against Cuba. More so, facing global challenges calls for deep partnerships, meaningful dialogue and an appropriate view of established mechanisms and institutions, he stressed.
ABDULLAH BIN ZAYED AL NAHYAN, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of United Arab Emirates, said the international order is being characterized by major changes, most notably the rise of armed terrorist groups, some of which have the support of rogue States. The United Arab Emirates must be more active in maintaining regional security through stronger partnerships. The Government has a comprehensive approach to regional security that addresses the different dimensions of threats. Key among those threats is interference in the affairs of the Arab world, where countries like Iran seek to undermine security efforts by spreading chaos, violence and sectarianism. The United Arab Emirates joined the Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen to put an end to the Houthi coup and to address Iran’s nefarious interference and pointed to the differences between illegitimate Houthi armed groups and the legitimate Government of Yemen.
Despite efforts to restore stability to Yemen, Houthi intransigence regarding peace initiatives has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the country, he said. In response, the Coalition launched military operations to liberate Hodeida from the grip of Houthis and to achieve a strategic shift that enhances the prospects of a political solution to the crisis. Operations in Hodeida bear in mind the work of relief organizations, he assured. The United Arab Emirates is also making progress in the fight against Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula. Concerns over Iran’s intentions are reflected in the decision of the United States to withdraw from the nuclear agreement with that country and re-impose sanctions. Iran has not ceased its aggressive behaviour in the region and has not abandoned initiatives to develop weapons of mass destruction.
The second major challenge facing the region is the spread of extremist and terrorist groups and their exploitation of modern technology, he said. The situation is exacerbated by States who establish media outlets that incite hatred, he stressed, stating that his Government is at the forefront of the fight against extremism. These efforts include participation in the G-5 Sahel Joint Forces as part of efforts to eliminate extremism and terrorism wherever it exists, he said, adding that the Forum for Promoting Peace in Muslim Societies is working to build an alliance of Abrahamic religions and world philosophies. Policies to counter supporters of extremism make no distinction between a group or a State, he said, noting that alongside close allies his Government has taken sovereign measures towards Qatar. A third challenge facing the region is the absence of a political solution to the Palestinian issue. The people of Palestine continue to wait for the international community to reach a comprehensive, just and lasting solution to end their suffering.
The region also faces a deterioration of economic, social and humanitarian conditions, he said. At the core of the Government’s foreign policy development efforts is the strengthening of economic opportunities and empowerment of women and youth in conflict-afflicted countries, he said, calling for the protection of Yazidi and Rohingya populations. He reiterated the vital role of United Nations reform in supporting political processes, strengthening dialogue and building conditions to maintain peace and security, adding that the international community must take a firm and consistent stance towards States that have hostile policies and violate international law. He reiterated his Government’s demand for its legitimate right to sovereignty over the islands of Great Turb, Lesser Turb and Abu Musa, currently under Iranian occupation.
JAN HAMACEK, First Deputy Prime Minister of the Czech Republic, said the United Nations purpose — the protection of peace, human rights, justice and social progress — is not a Western instrument, but one that forms universal ideals towards which all Member States should strive together. Multilateralism is increasingly undermined and questioned, he said, calling on policymakers to realize the difficult structural and political reforms required for the United Nations to promote shared global responsibility and robust international cooperation and regain common values. In recent years the Security Council has been characterized by blocking tactics rather than cooperation while failing to act on the world’s worst atrocities in ongoing brutal conflicts from Syria to Yemen. Fully supporting the Secretary-General’s proposed reforms and their budgetary requirements, he said the prevention of conflict is a vital point and Member States should adopt a comprehensive approach to peace and security which treats climate change as a security problem.
The Czech Republic took great pride in holding the one-year presidency of the Economic and Social Council from 2017-2018 and will continue to champion Sustainable Development Goal 16 as a cornerstone of the 2030 Agenda. The United Nations must seek more synergies between its humanitarian, development and security activities, he said, calling for special focus on post-conflict stabilization with more cooperation among United Nations agencies. Despite its importance, the human rights pillar of the United Nations is chronically under-funded, he said. Human rights are deeply rooted in the historical experience of his country, he went on, noting that the Czech Republic is currently running for a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2019-2021 term. He called for Member States to support his country’s candidacy.
Having an embassy in Pyongyang, the Czech Republic has a particular interest in improving the situation on the Korean Peninsula and is following the inter-Korean and United States-Democratic People’s Republic of Korea dialogue closely. Regarding the fight against terrorism, he said it is necessary to conclude the proposed Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism and called for an internationally recognized definition of terrorism that will hold perpetrators accountable.
It is not a given that all countries, including those situated in Eastern Europe, have the right to choose their foreign policy orientation without their sovereignty and territorial integrity threatened, he said, calling the annexation of Crimea a violation of international law. He noted that the use of force is allowed under the United Nations Charter only in self-defence, yet the Organization is the sole guarantor of international peace and security. Therefore, it is only through collective means that those goals may be achieved, he said. He reaffirmed his country’s support of the International Criminal Court and supported the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism set up to investigate the most serious crimes in Syria.
WILFRED ELRINGTON, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Belize, noting that the current year marks the thirty-seventh anniversary of the country’s independence, said that Belizeans have now enjoyed almost four uninterrupted decades of freedom, peace and democracy in a sovereign independent nation. During that period, the country’s leaders succeeded in making modest gains in sustainable development, notwithstanding a poisoned colonial legacy. Acknowledging the United Nations role in the country’s journey to independence, he remembered Assembly resolution 1514, and subsequent resolutions which mandated the British to grant Belize independence.
However, he said, thirty-seven years hence, Guatemala still maintains a territorial claim to the country. “Our voting public, in the finest democratic fashion is now seized of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to determine the fate of the country,” he said, noting that his Government has appointed 10 April 2019 as the date for the national referendum. All registered voters will be entitled to cast their ballots signalling either their consent or rejection to having the Guatemalan claim resolved once and for all by the International Court of Justice. In preparation, the Government has embarked upon a nationwide public awareness campaign, he informed the Assembly.
Simultaneously with the efforts to end the Guatemalan claim, he went on, the Government continues to promote economic development, job creation, education and health care. Poverty persists in Belize and current statistics reveal that 43 per cent of Belizeans live below the poverty line. The Government is targeting the problem with new programmes, including a food pantry and a job readiness course. Further, the Government is building 35 new schools and offering a high school subsidy grant. The recently launched Belize Youth Challenge Programme focuses on imparting life skills to youth at risk of involvement in crime.
Noting the range of natural disasters that ravage the Caribbean every year, he said that building resilience is an integral part of the country’s development planning, as evidenced by the National Climate Resilience Investment Plan. By dint of geography, he noted, Belize is located along the path frequented by criminal elements of every ilk as they journey from the South to the North to traffic their wares. Tackling transnational crime in Central America requires a truly collaborative approach, he said, expressing gratitude to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for helping implement programmes to address underlying social causes while building the capacity of protective and judicial institutions.
URBINO JOSE GONCALVES BOTELHO, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sao Tome and Principe, said the United Nations must manifest itself in fostering dialogue among nations and promoting concerted policies to address the migration crisis. He appealed to Member States to continue efforts to resolve tensions and conflicts around the world, particularly in the Central African Republic and the humanitarian crisis there. He saluted Guinea-Bissau and the Democratic Republic of the Congo on the upcoming elections in those countries and noted the positive steps towards reconciliation in Ethiopia and Eritrea, and in South Sudan. He supported the efforts of the Secretary-General and his Special Envoy to relaunch the political process concerning Western Sahara based on the parameters set by the Security Council in 2007 and welcome the adoption of Council resolution 2414 (2018), which calls for a political, pragmatic, realistic and long-lasting solution for the dispute.
He called for the continuation of negotiations in the Middle East and the normalization of relations between the United States and Cuba so the embargo on the latter may be lifted. He regretted terrorist acts around the world and condemned the acts of Boko Haram in Nigeria, which undermined the development and security of the entire Gulf of Guinea. He reaffirmed his country’s commitment to collaborate with regional and international partners to eradicate terrorism.
Turning to climate change, he said global efforts must continue under the auspices of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and put into practice the provisions of the Paris Agreement. He looked forward to the next Conference of the Parties (COP 24) in Poland to continue the dialogue and move forward to implementation. Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals will require the support of specialized United Nations agencies, he said, also highlighting and welcoming the efforts of the African Union in the implementation of the inclusive Agenda 2063. He noted his Government’s efforts to achieve both the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063, calling both the United Nations and the African Union important bilateral partners.
Looking forward to his own country’s upcoming elections, he invited the international community to join as independent observers to witness the strength of his country’s democracy. Sao Tome and Principe must assume its leadership role in the congregation of efforts for the development of all peoples, he concluded, reaffirming his country’s commitment to the ideals of peace and fraternity among people.
KALLA ANKOURAO, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Niger, reaffirmed Niger’s support of the Secretary-General reforms and welcomed the theme of this year’s General Assembly as a reminder of the United Nations founding ideals. The problems facing the world require greater global collaboration, he said, also welcoming the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. Combating irregular migration and illegal trafficking has been at the heart of numerous meetings; now the focus must be to implement those commitments. To that end, Niger had designed a doctrine that would enable it to achieve significant results and it has already seen a reduction in migrants over the past year, he said, also advocating for humane treatment of migrants. Niger will attend the international conference in Marrakesh this December and will support the adoption of the migration compact.
The Sustainable Development Goals are of particular interest to developing countries and offer an excellent opportunity for Niger to share the progress it has made in areas like education, health and security issues, he said. As part of development efforts, Niger has developed a strategy for inclusive growth that also takes into account the African Union’s 2063 Agenda. He supported the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which seeks to help countries overcome dependence on the export of basic products and find social and economic transformation for inclusive growth and sustainable development. Efforts to mobilize domestic resources have been made but challenges remain. Niger is a country that is two-thirds desert and feels the full brunt of climate change, a phenomenon that has a significant effect on its economy. The Paris Agreement on Climate Change must be implemented, and Niger will host a round table on technical and financial partnerships that will define ways to implement the Agreement in the region. Additional financing will allow countries in his region to better handle climate change, he stressed.
In response to Niger’s rapidly growing population, the Government bolstered up efforts to reverse the trend, and indeed, the birth rate shrank from 7.6 births per woman in 2012 to 6 in 2017, he said. If that trend continues, Niger would, within a few years, achieve demographic growth in line with the country’s GDP, but will need assistance with certain social programs to achieve that goal, like ensuring girls stay in school until age 16. Regarding the situation in the Lake Chad Basin, the deployment of troops had weakened the operational capabilities of Boko Haram there. Now the challenges are more socioeconomic than security related, he said. On the G-5 Sahel Joint Force, he said that thanks to the Brussels conference earlier this year, the Force’s financing needs for the first year have been met. Yet prospects are not reassuring to guarantee the requisite financing for the Force to complete its mission, he said, asking that the Force’s mandate be placed under Chapter VII of the charter.
He welcomed peaceful developments in other parts of Africa, including the Horn of Africa and in South Sudan, but said that international solidarity for the Palestinians has taken a step back this year and reaffirmed Niger’s support for their cause. Regarding Security Council reform, he encouraged Member States to speed up the process to adapt the Security Council to reflect today’s world. New forms of conflict lead to asymmetrical war, he said, calling to strengthen peacekeeping missions.
FRANCINE BARON, Minister for Foreign and Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Affairs of Dominica, said that there are moments in the history of a nation that captured its resilience. She noted that for Dominica, the moment came last year, when Hurricane Maria unleashed its fury of 180 miles per hour winds that brought the country to its knees. Immediately after, citizens began the daunting task of search and rescue, clearing roadways, and rebuilding. Applauding Dominicans far and wide for being part of the relief efforts, as well as members of the United Nations family, she thanked all who helped.
“Let this not be another moment to simply sharpen the rhetoric or to speak merely of redoubling current efforts,” she said. “We have done that too many times before — yet watched climate change ravage on, regardless.” It is no secret that the lack of motivation by some countries is rooted in the fact that those who gain most from the activities that create climate change remain most removed from its dire consequences. “Since climate change is the result of an economic calculus that will keep pushing global destruction further and further along, it must be accepted as the responsibility of our time,” she said, calling for collective efforts to stop it.
Within a few hours, Hurricane Maria caused damage equivalent to 226 per cent of Dominica’s GDP. Two years earlier, a tropical storm had wiped out 90 per cent of the GDP. The cost of building back better — of building a more resilient nation — comes with a price more than developing States can meet singlehandedly. The price of consumption and production of goods that contribute to climate change does not compensate for the losses. The “polluter pays” is an accepted principle and a golden nexus of morality, economics and environmental policy. On an international level, it is the victim who pays. The insurance model championed by many industrialized countries and international agencies as a solution to climate change asks island States on the front line to take out additional insurance against loss and damage, which are the direct results of a change in climate caused by others. “This is asking the victim to pay by instalment. This insane equivalent would be the arsonist saying to you that instead of trying to stop him setting fire to your house, you should take on fire insurance,” she said, adding that the game changer would be to establish a different kind of insurance, especially for vulnerable countries, that pays out quickly to the victims of climate disasters.
She proposed the United Nations oversee a “Climate Loss and Damage Insurance Fund” where premiums are paid by those who have contributed most and continue to contribute to climate change. She noted Dominica’s response to climate change, instituting a plan to make it the first climate resilient nation in the world. Dominica has drafted legislation to establish the Climate Resilience Executing Agency of Dominica and has identified $1 billion of critical projects. The plan is based around designing super-resilient networks, water-proofing the economy, and building resilient communities. The role of the United Nations is central to mobilizing resources, she noted, adding that official development assistance (ODA) must be re-engineered to take into account vulnerability.
JEAN-CLAUDE GAKOSSO, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Congolese Living Abroad of Congo, said peace is an invaluable treasure and the raison d’être of the United Nations. However, the current global landscape has seen a rise in intolerance, racism and violence at a time when multilateralism is being challenged. Threats include the spread of conflicts, terrorism and violent extremism, evolving trade wars and a migration crisis that continues to see thousands of people perishing in the Mediterranean Sea. Decisive and collective action must address those and other grave concerns, with a view to fostering peace.
As part of finding solutions to challenges facing Africa, Congo has hosted key debates on pressing problems, he said. The wider goal is ending violence and boosting development. Satisfied with regional developments, he commended the Democratic Republic of the Congo for its efforts to hold peaceful elections. Turning to the Central African Republic, he called on all parties to join the peace process. Calling for the restoration of peace across the continent, he emphasized that the United Nations must play its role in ensuring safe elections without violence. For its part, Congo is taking steps to pursue the ideals of peace and development. Young people and women have been brought into development processes, he said, underlining the importance of including all groups and of respect for their human rights. After all, he continued, these groups will be the drivers of economic growth today and into the future.
On climate change, he said efforts are under way to address environmental concerns, including preservation of the vast forests in Central Africa. Calling on sponsors and donors for assistance to the Governments of Congo Basin nations, he highlighted the importance of protecting these forest areas. The Paris Agreement and other global instrument must be boldly supported if they are to serve the cause of humankind and to protect life itself on this planet.
AHMED AWAD ISSE, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Somalia, said that since assuming office a year and a half ago, his Administration has made huge strides in security sector reform and political and economic transformation, yet is mindful of the enormous challenges ahead, particularly to overcome terrorism. New road networks and supply routes have been opened, liberating towns and villages from Al-Shabaab. Stressing the importance of a multi-faceted security approach, he said the Government and its partners have militarily dismantled terrorist hideouts, while also engaging religious leaders, elders, youth, women and civil society groups to dramatically reverse the twisted ideology of hate and religious intolerance. Joining Al-Shabaab is no longer appealing to young men and women; that group and Al-Qaida no longer have a ready stream of new and volunteer recruits in Somalia. Some have accepted the offer of amnesty, denounced violence and surrendered peacefully. Senior commanders, former sector heads and infantrymen also have surrendered unconditionally, weakening the terror network’s logistical and planning capabilities. The Government is now working with civil networks to flush out remaining terrorists.
ALPHA BARRY, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Burkina Faso, said his country was enacting efforts to strengthen democracy through measures including a new Constitution. Other progressive steps include abolition of the death penalty. Despite a difficult security and social context, his country has a growth rate of 6.7 per cent, due to cleaning up public finance, improved tax revenue measures and growth projects launched under a National Economic and Social Development Plan. A policy of free health care for pregnant women and children under the age of 5 will be gradually extended to the entire population.
He expressed deep concern that his country is the target of terrorist attacks, formerly limited to the northern region but now reaching the south-west and east, bordering Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Niger, Benin and Togo. In three years, 229 people have been killed by terrorist groups, with his Government mobilizing all resources to combat the threat. Unfortunately, terrorists are now using improvised explosive devices. In the past week, they blew up two vehicles killing 14 members of defence and security forces. Terrorists are also targeting civilians, students and teachers, forcing closure of 520 schools depriving 56,000 students of their right to education. However, he said the attacks have strengthened the country’s unity, solidarity and determination to defend its values. One thing is certain: no country can fight terrorism on its own. Pointing to General Assembly resolution 72/165, adopted in December, proclaiming 21 August the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, he called for the Security Council to support the G-5 Sahel Joint Force by placing it under the mandate of Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
Noting that poverty, exclusion and climate change are root causes of conflict, his country launched the Special Emergency Assistance Programme to the Sahel Member Countries and Sudan, addressing dual socioeconomic and security challenges. More than ever, the world must defend and encourage multilateralism. To that end, he noted Burkina Faso has 2,000 personnel involved in six peacekeeping operations. One of three countries maintaining troops in Guinea-Bissau, his country is also the largest troop-contributing country to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).
Turning to nations in crisis, he congratulated the Government and people of Mali on successful recent presidential elections despite the threat of terrorism. The peace agreement between leaders of South Sudan and renewed negotiations in Western Sahara were also a source of hope. However, he said the Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains a concern and he remains convinced it can only be resolved with a two-State solution. Dialogue on the Korean Peninsula is a good sign that needs the encouragement of the international community. He also called for an end to the embargo on Cuba. Pointing to the proliferation of small arms and light weapons as a threat to peace and security in several regions, he also condemned the resurgent use of weapons of mass destruction. With humanitarian issues also a concern given the refugee crisis, he hailed the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, noting the conference to adopt it will take place in Africa. As a country of immigration with 4 million citizens living abroad and 25,000 refugees on its soil, Burkina Faso will also adopt the Global Compact on Refugees. Calling for Security Council reform for a more inclusive body, he said it must remedy an injustice against Africa, which deserves permanent membership.
The representative of Qatar, exercising the right of reply, responded to the false statements made by his counterparts from the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. Qatar plays an active role in combating terrorism and fostering peace. These allegations have never been substantiated and they violate international human rights laws, he said, adding that these States do not practice what they preach when they terrorize civilians and interfere with the affairs of other nations, such as financing a coup attempt in Qatar and pretending to combat terrorism when terrorist activities have originated from inside their borders. Bahrain’s unilateral action against Qatar is only undermining regional economic growth. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates is violating the principles of good neighbourliness with its targeted actions against Qatar, such as implementing discriminatory policies against Qataris.
The representative of India, responding to comments made by her counterpart from Pakistan, rejected a number of allegations made against her country. The “new” Pakistan is not much different from the past, she said. Fake allegations and fake facts are counterproductive, she said, adding that Pakistan must make moves towards ending its misinformation and choosing a new path based on the truth.
The representative of United Arab Emirates, commenting on the statement made by Qatar’s representative, rejected several false allegations. Qatar has financed terrorist activities, threatening peace in the region and the world. Measures that have been taken are in reaction to Qatar’s actions, she said, reaffirming that the United Arab Emirates respects the provisions of the International Court of Justice.
The representative of Bahrain, responding to Qatar’s statement, said Qatar continues to finance and support terrorist groups, destabilizing several countries in the region. In fact, evidence demonstrates Qatar’s involvement in interfering with his country’s affairs. Having coordinated with other countries to constrain Qatar and force it to respect its commitments and end its support for terrorists in the Gulf and the Middle East, he said Qatar must stop interfering with the affairs of other States and engage in dialogue with the concerned countries.
The representative of Pakistan, responding to his counterpart from India, said the breeding ground of terrorism in the region is actually in India. Providing several examples of Pakistan citizens who were victims of terrorism in occupied Jammu and Kashmir and other areas, he said that in the India of today there is no room for dissent, as is apparent as the country continues to face 17 domestic insurgencies. On the issue of occupied Jammu and Kashmir, he wondered whether India could deny the fact that more than 100,000 civilians have been killed. The truth is that occupied Jammu and Kashmir is not a part of India and never will be, and India could no longer hide its actions against civilians there.
The representative of Qatar, responding to the statement made by the representative of the United Arab Emirates, said there is no basis to these repeated allegations. While Qatar suffers under an unjust blockade, the country has forged new international allegiances. Mentioning progressive national measures, he said Qatar will never impede international measures and it exercises restraint. Yet, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain do the opposite, taking an approach based on force, including digital piracy and cybercrime.
The representative of the United Arab Emirates, in response, called such allegations erroneous. She called on the Qatari regime to stop drawing attention from the real issue. Qatar is spreading false information about the roots of the crisis and is exploiting regional instability by promoting terrorism, she said, emphasizing that her country is at the forefront of fighting the challenges of the region.