YouSaid · the spoken record

Azali Assoumani

lines on the record: 159
first: 2003-09-24
most recent: 2023-09-24
sittings or episodes: 9
sources: un-general-debate

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“That is entirely wrong. What Islam are they referring to? Islam, our Islam, is a religion of peace and tolerance. It is therefore urgent to work together to strengthen mobilization efforts, in particular through information-sharing and the transfer of skills, to be able to effectively stamp out that threat. To that end, sustained efforts must continue to be made with a view to achieving a common consensual language, which, beyond defining the various aspects of the terrorism spectrum, will enable the establishment of cooperation processes and action aimed at reducing the threat of terrorism at the national, regional and global levels. We must therefore support the Group of Five for the Sahel, the United Nations forces and Operation Barkhane in their joint efforts to fight terrorism in the Sahel region.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“The Union of the Comoros welcomes the serious and creditable efforts of the Kingdom of Morocco to find a definitive political solution and supports the Moroccan initiative for autonomy. Building international peace and security is a constant struggle and the result of many concessions. In the current context, the risks of a nuclear detonation are very real. We have a duty to protect present and future generations from the danger of the use of nuclear weapons. The terrorist threat also continues to grow worldwide, and no country has been spared. Indeed, not a day goes by without there being victims somewhere in the world, owing to the madness of certain malicious people who use ideologies of all kinds to achieve their extremist ends and commit acts of unspeakable barbarity. Some say that they are acting in the name of Islam.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“That innocent population is the target of attacks and persecutions that contravene the values enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. To that end, I would like to make a solemn appeal to the Assembly to assume its responsibilities in order to help that population, which is in great danger. With regard to the question of Western Sahara, while we welcome the adoption by the Security Council of resolution 2414 (2018), which stresses the need to work towards a pragmatic, realistic and lasting political solution and calls on neighbouring States to cooperate fully with the United Nations, the Union of the Comoros wishes to express its thanks to the Secretary-General and his Special Envoy for succeeding in relaunching the political process on the basis of the parameters defined by the Security Council since 2007.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“In view of recent events and positions, Member States must spend some time in reflection so as to reach consensus on developing a new mediation mechanism to finally relaunch the peace process. In that regard, I welcome the adoption, in December 2017, of resolution ES-10/19, on the status of Jerusalem, as well as resolution ES-10/20, on the protection of the Palestinian people, which was adopted in June by a majority of Member States and requests that the Secretary-General submit proposals to ensure the security, protection and well-being of the Palestinian population, in addition to recommendations on an international protection mechanism for Palestinian civilians. In that vein, allow me to draw the attention of the members of the Assembly to the difficult situation that the Rohingya people continue to face.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“That is why the Union of the Comoros reiterates its steadfast support for the Palestinian people and remains convinced that any viable solution to that conflict must involve the creation of both an Israeli and a Palestinian State, living side by side, in complete security, within secure and internationally recognized borders, on the basis of the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as Palestine’s capital. However, our concern is all the more justified as we note that, unfortunately, the international community has gradually become a spectator of that peace process, which is stuck in a persistent stalemate that is likely to decrease the prospects for a just and lasting resolution.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“At the country level, we must assign importance to those problems and adopt appropriate and effective strategies to combat those diseases. The situation in the Middle East is extremely worrisome. Yemen, Syria and Palestine need the Organization’s unwavering support. In that regard, I would like to express the deep concern of my Government and of the Comorian people over the increase in arbitrary measures taken in recent months against the Palestinian people, the consequences of which not only significantly undermine the stability of the region but also weaken the collective effort towards a two-State solution.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“It is therefore important to stress that care must be taken to ensure that funding is predictable and that the poorest countries, in particular small island developing States, do not assume too great of a financial burden. I would like to welcome the initiative taken by the Assembly to attach particular importance to the consideration of topics relating to tuberculosis and non-communicable diseases. Need I remind those present that some of those diseases are no longer the prerogative of the poorest countries, in the sense that they are reappearing in the more affluent countries? We must strengthen the World Health Organization’s work in the world, including by making substantial resources available to the agency.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“By having equal opportunities to invest in the areas of peace and security, health, education, democracy and the rule of law, we will succeed in ensuring the harmonious development of our countries and in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, the founding objective of the new era in which the Organization is entering. My country also welcomes the relevance of the Secretary-General’s proposals as part of the reforms he is undertaking, which will better reflect the priorities and needs of countries and improve the functioning of the Organization. On the other hand, that rationale must in no way decrease the presence of the United Nations on the ground.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“To that end, the much-desired reforms, particularly within the main organs of the United Nations — which, when delayed, give rise to a sense of injustice and frustration among the regions that feel least represented — must be concrete in order to reflect, as closely and in the most balanced way possible, the current geopolitical realities, especially the recognition of the African continent. In that regard, the Union of the Comoros reiterates its support for the Ezulwini Consensus, which calls for the allocation of at least two permanent seats to Africa in the Security Council, with veto power.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“The theme chosen for the seventy-third session — “Making the United Nations relevant to all people: global leadership and shared responsibilities for peaceful, equitable and sustainable societies” — will make sense only if we translate our words into action. Today there is a need for shared responsibility. In order to meet all the challenges we face, we must begin by making the Organization more equitable and effective by providing it with the resources necessary to accomplish its mission.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“The year 2018 has seen upheavals, transitions, changes and many instances of disorder in manifold forms, in the face of which we must continue to show our resolve and unity. Whether climatic, economic, social, political, migratory, health-related or other in nature, those events must further mobilize the international community, which must become more solidary, committed and determined than ever. The current international context is increasingly demanding and requires that we react virtually immediately. The involvement of us all is therefore essential, given that all those situations can compromise peace and stability. That is what genuinely confers upon the United Nations its universality.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“First, I extend my warm congratulations to you, Madam President, on your election as President of the General Assembly at its seventy-third session. Your election as the fourth woman to be elected to lead the Assembly represents a further step towards the better representation of women within our Organization, and I am convinced that the breadth of your well-grounded experience will benefit our work and provide the energy needed to move forward more effectively towards the achievement of our goals. I am exceptionally pleased that my Government has made the advancement of women one of its priorities. I would also like to take this opportunity to commend and thank your predecessor upon the completion of his term; he deserves my delegation’s gratitude for his remarkable commitment during the previous session of the General Assembly.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“Beyond solidarity speeches, support for causes, the condemnation of attacks on friendly countries and peoples, the expressions of compassion for victims, and the calls for respect for the right of peoples, the sovereignty of States and the integrity of their territories, we must show greater commitment. In any case, the Union of the Comoros believes in the United Nations and its capacity to face today’s challenges. We believe that such an Organization is possible. We believe that we are able to build such a United Nations together. Before concluding my remarks, allow me to take the opportunity of the coming of the Islamic New Year 1439 to convey to the General Assembly my greetings and best wishes for peace, progress and prosperity.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“With regard to the Middle East, the lack of a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the current status quo are fuelling insecurity and destabilization in the region. The solution to that conflict lies in stopping the unacceptable colonization of the Palestinian territories, the end of injustice and violence against the Palestinian populations and the global settlement of the conflict, which is more than a half century old, on the basis of the two-State solution, which will fulfil the Palestinian people’s right to full sovereignty, with East Jerusalem as its capital.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“Its history links it to freedom, democracy, justice, respect for international law and the promotion of peace. It does not intend to divide or separate a people. Its interest, like ours, lies in a world of stability and a peaceful and prosperous Indian Ocean region looking towards a better future. In the Near East and the Middle East, the international community must mobilize further to end the martyrdom of the thousands of children crushed under bombs, the hunger imposed on populations, the use of chemical weapons, the chaos and the partition processes in countries at war. The international community must sanction the use of chemical weapons. We must act to ensure that hope is restored for the displaced and refugees and that the countries affected can recover their stability and territorial integrity.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“Forty-two years after my country acceded to its international sovereignty, and in the absence of a solution to the issue since 1975, that question continues not only to weaken stability but also to hinder the country’s socioeconomic development. I therefore welcome the continuation of the dialogue between my country and France in the quest for a just and equitable solution to the dispute over the Comorian Island of Mayotte, consistent with international law and respectful of the interests of each party. I pray to Allah the Almighty that He will keep us alive so that next year from this same rostrum I will be able to share with the Assembly the positive and consensual results of that dialogue. France is a permanent member of the Security Council.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“It is with their invaluable assistance that the country has returned to the path of peace and stability. The displacement of populations — in other words, migration — destabilizes both the countries of origin and the host countries. However, the Union of the Comoros refuses to allow the term “immigrants” to be applied to Comorians who visit the Island of Mayotte, which is an integral part of its territory, despite the fact that it unfortunately remains under French administration. Indeed, the thousands of my compatriots who die each year in their attempts to go to Mayotte, a part of their territory, is not an immigration issue. The question of the Comorian Island of Mayotte relates to territorial integrity.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“Its mission is to assess the past, draw lessons from it and plan for a better future under better conditions. I have therefore unreservedly embraced this participatory, inclusive and representative approach, and the debates will lead to conclusions on everything that will strengthen the peace, security, calm and stability of the country and determine its future by drawing lessons from the past. In order for that important event to come to the hoped-for historic conclusions for the benefit of our people, I ask for the partnership and support of the international community and international and regional institutions, to which I would like to reiterate here once again our gratitude and our most sincere thanks for their unfailing support, especially when the Comoros almost sank into chaos 20 years ago.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“Furthermore, there is a great deal of work under way to endow my country in the near future with adequate resources in terms of energy, road, port and airport infrastructure, economic recovery and the establishment of a framework for consultations. That will bring the private and public sectors closer together and will afford opportunities for civil society and political parties to fully play their roles. For that reason, at the initiative of the elders and leaders of our country, we have launched an inclusive dialogue among the various components and forces of the Comorian nation. There are plans to hold a national forum in December to take stock of our 42 years of independence. That is an inclusive, broadened national framework, one that includes all national life forces.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“The Union of the Comoros has returned to political stability after witnessing three peaceful transfers of power at the highest State level over the past 15 years. Today, we are offering an incentive policy and support measures with a more attractive investment code. My country, as a small island developing State, is subject to myriad risks. Nevertheless, my Government’s determination to work for the well-being of our people has prompted us to set a goal of making the Union of the Comoros an emerging country by 2030. There is great optimism driving us forward, and we hope that indicators will soon attest to our progress towards that ambitious and lofty goal. The main thrusts of our Government converge on the achievement of that goal, which is underpinned by a national development strategy.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“In the Union of the Comoros, in one year, we managed to end the electricity shortages and constant load- shedding that had plagued our economy, our businesses and our homes, and to emerge from a protracted energy crisis. However, now that the emergency is over, we need to ensure that those results can be made long-term through a medium- and long-term energy policy and through the development of renewable energy with a low-carbon footprint. To succeed in that and achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, we must rely on ourselves and our own resources above all. However, we need international solidarity, but also the solidarity of industrialists, bankers and international investors.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“The international community must absolutely act to end such acts and punish the perpetrators, at the risk of losing credibility before the people whose eyes are riveted on our institution, which has the right, duty and ability to provide them with protection, dignity and well-being. It is by guaranteeing peace, security and human rights that we can collectively promote the SDGs, especially for a decent existence, health for all, gender equality and education for new generations. Technological possibilities present immense potential for our young people. Goal 7 of the SDGs is geared to ensuring universal access to reliable, sustainable and modern energy services at an affordable cost. The lack of widespread access to electricity is a hindrance to sustainable growth, particularly in Africa.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“By no means can they be associated with our religion. We vehemently condemn the atrocities targeting minorities and communities — yesterday, unfortunately, in Bosnia and Herzegovina against Muslims and today in Burma against the Rohingyas, as well as atrocities perpetrated against minorities throughout the world. The inhumane and savage nature of such attacks is a shock to our conscience as we see attempts at ethnic cleansing committed against the poorest segments of society. I dare hope that our Organization will be able to uphold the most basic rights of the oppressed, regardless of origin, race, gender and creed. What priority do we attach to the human being in the face of such ghastly scenes where human rights are trampled upon on a daily basis?”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“Terrorism, which represents the absolute repudiation of the human being, has become a scourge that we condemn and that we must fight mercilessly on a global scale with all our strength. In that regard, I call for the rejection of the dangerous confusion and unfortunate association between the terms “terrorism” and “Islam”. There is no Islamic terrorism, just as there is no Christian or Jewish terrorism. Terrorists belong to no faith. Terrorists are simply barbarians. My country, the Union of the Comoros, which I have the honour to lead, is a country whose people are educated in the practices of a religion, Islam, which advocates love of one’s neighbour, tolerance and respect for human dignity. Those principles fly in the face of the cowardly, barbaric acts committed by groups acting faithlessly and lawlessly.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“The general theme of our discussion today focuses on people, the striving for peace and a decent life for all on a sustainable planet, and it incorporates many issues that lie at the heart of the concerns of the international community. They include migration, preventive diplomacy, conflict prevention, sustainable development and United Nations reform. Speaking about the human being also implies a reference to human rights, including human dignity, which are an uppermost priority for our Organization. Global warming, migrations, conflicts, wars and terrorism are all challenges that all continents, and Africa in particular, are facing and require urgent responses.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“I would therefore like to voice our commitment to the United Nations and commend its efforts to tackle present-day challenges and threats to peace, stability and collective prosperity. I welcome the relevance of the theme selected for this seventy-second session, which enables us to highlight the increasingly evident link between the environment, peace and security. Here, I would like to reiterate our tribute to the Governments of France and Morocco for the work accomplished at the twenty-first and twenty-second sessions of the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, encouraging each of our countries, particularly island States, to give utmost priority to everything that has to do with the survival of our planet.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“His predecessor, His Excellency Peter Thomson, also merits the admiration and gratitude of my delegation and all others for his remarkable energy in accomplishing his mission during the previous session. To Secretary-General Guterres and to all Members of our prestigious institution, we reiterate our readiness to make our modest contribution towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the upholding of peace and security, for which the United Nations is constantly working with selflessness and devotion. My country, the Union of the Comoros, on behalf of which I speak, appreciates the responsibility borne by the international community in the light of the gravity of the situation throughout the world and the concerns plaguing people in many countries.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“Those repeated natural catastrophes are a resonating call to climate sceptics to remind them that now is the time for commitment and action if we wish to mitigate, as far as possible, the causes of such devastating threats linked to global warming. I would also like to associate the voice of the Comoros with those who spoke earlier today to express our deepest condolences and full solidarity to the Government and the people of Mexico following the violent earthquake that recently struck the heart of Mexico, causing hundreds of deaths and disappearances, as well as tremendous damage. Allow me to commend the President on his election to the presidency of the General Assembly at its seventy-second session and to voice true optimism for success in our work under his leadership as a seasoned statesman.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“It is an honour to once again address the General Assembly. On this occasion, I would first like to join those who have spoken before me in this Hall to express the great compassion that the people and the Government of my country, the Union of the Comoros, feel for the people and the Government of the United States of America, the host country of the Assembly, in the aftermath of the hurricane that recently devastated Texas. As an island State, I would also like to extend our greatest sympathy to the French Government and the peoples and islands of the Caribbean for both the heavy loss of life and the magnitude of material damage wrought by Hurricane Irma.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“The success of the Conference will contribute to reducing insecurity, which is a destabilizing factor in many regions in the world, particularly in Africa, where people have been the most likely to resort to migration, which is a global concern that we addressed on the opening days of our session. Indeed, the success of the Conference will be reflected in improvements in our daily life and will provide a tangible contribution to people’s well-being and prosperity.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“His commitment and capacity for mobilization enabled the eventual adoption of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. My country signed the agreement and will submit it for ratification by the Parliament during its session in October. On this occasion, I wish every success to His Majesty King Mohammed VI, whose beautiful country, Morocco, will host, in Marrakesh in 2017, the twenty- second session of the Conference of the Parties . With the permission of my friend, His Majesty King Mohammed VI, I invite the entire international community to go on that occasion to Morocco, which fully deserves to host the twenty-second Conference of the Parties.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“As a small island developing State, the Union of the Comoros seeks to turn the private sector and civil society, together with the Administration, into drivers of the struggle to transform economic growth, in particular in Africa, so as to provide decent job prospects for young people, improve services, develop agriculture and reduce inequalities deriving from income, gender and living environments. All that is so we can deal successfully with the emerging problem of climate change. I want to end on an optimistic note. Getting back to the theme of the Sustainable Development Goals, I want to pay tribute to His Excellency Mr. François Hollande, President of the French Republic, and congratulate him on the success of the twenty-first session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“However, our Organization is increasingly perceived as inefficient in terms of defending the rights of the most deprived in relation to the most powerful. The Union of the Comoros is also in favour of broad reform of the United Nations, echoing the ideas of a large number of countries, in particular with regard to the need to grant Africa a permanent seat on the Security Council. We believe that respect for international law, the sovereignty of States and the integrity of their territories will contribute to greater peace and prosperity throughout the world. There are other challenges to be overcome before we can achieve sustainable development. We must eradicate poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all within the framework of the new Agenda within the next 15 years.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“I am convinced that the dialogue that I initiated with President Chirac in 2005, and which has been pursued by successive French and Comorian Governments, will help to solve our unpleasant dispute. We must engage in frank and intelligent dialogue, respecting the interests of both parties and, above all, international law, in order to make it possible for future generations of French, Comorian and Franco-Comorian people to live in peace and harmony and to be protected from the radicalization and extremism that have weakened regions all over the world. Today, the United Nations is the only place where the world’s population can come together and look towards a common future of shared peace and prosperity — for which we have high expectation from this Organization, which regulates the international system.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“And yet they descend into chaos on a daily basis — every year and every month, those trips lead to deaths of hundreds of our fellow citizens in the channel between the three islands and the island of Mayotte, to the indifference of the international community. The Assembly is fully aware of the issue concerning the island of Mayotte and has devoted no fewer than 15 resolutions to the issue since 1977. Unfortunately, it has yet to be resolved. We hope that, with the Assembly’s multifaceted support, a viable solution will be found to accommodate both the Comoros and France — two countries that, in spite of that dispute, have remained partners and have established friendly relations over the years.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“Allow me, at this stage in my address, to respectfully draw the Assembly’s attention to the need to draw a distinction between migrants and internally displaced persons. My country, the Union of Comoros, had its sovereignty recognized by the United Nations in 1975. It is made up of four islands, and, like other countries, we have observed the subsequent, unavoidable movement of our population within islands and between islands, including the island of Mayotte — which is, unfortunately, still under French administration. Those trips are made to visit family, celebrate marriages, go to the burial of a close relative and for various other reasons.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“Nothing can justify the arrogance of those who, from this very rostrum, defy the world by taunting this world body, an Organization that provides a framework for all to recognize the sovereignty of States, to participate in international affairs and to seek peaceful solutions to the problems afflicting us. For my part, I wish to convey the trust of my people in the United Nations, an Organization that has acknowledged our sovereignty and independence, and that, 41 years later, makes it possible for us to be here. I believe that finding a solution to the issue of the sovereignty of the Palestinian people and resolving that 70-year-old conflict will spur the resolution of other conflicts in the Near and Middle East.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“That is why my country, the Union of the Comoros, is willing to support all actions aimed at fighting the scourge of terrorism. It is also urgent that our Organization, that is to say every Member State, finally agree on a definitive, fair and sustainable solution to the Israel-Arab conflict, based on a two-State solution and in accordance with the relevant United Nations resolutions. Nothing can justify our silent response to the terror of that conflict with its toll of victims, which is fuelled both by the extremism that comes from all sides and by our culpable inertia.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“The theme of this session, “The Sustainable Development Goals: a universal push to transform our world”, comes at just the right time, as it allows us to envisage sustainable development and even to stabilize populations at home, so that they can move only out of choice and in perfect harmony. And so it is up to our Organization, and therefore each one of us, to take immediate action to stop the violence that is a result of all kinds of extremism and fanaticism, leading to heinous and barbaric acts around the world, particularly in Africa, which is currently experiencing terrorism that knows no borders. Terrorists are neither Muslim nor Jewish, neither Catholic nor animist. They do not belong to any religion or any civilization — they are merely barbarians.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“Furthermore, the ambitious new long-term programme that we adopted last year to improve the lives of our population and to protect the planet for future generations enables us to optimistically perceive a future when we can reduce poverty, improve health and education, build a more sustainable habitat, fight climate change and protect our oceans and forests. However, the issue of refugees and migrants, which has been the focus of our debate since the start of the current session, requires urgent action. We are all well aware that those migrant men and women do not put their lives at risk, perilously travelling over land and sea, for pleasure or for tourism; instead, they are fleeing from war, poverty and misery.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“The theme also encourages us to build on the considerable progress made in the years that have followed: a steady decline in poverty throughout the world, an increasing number of children in school, spectacular gains in lowering child mortality, greater access to drinking water, and progress in the fight against malaria, AIDS and tuberculosis, which has helped to save millions of lives. Indeed, considerable efforts have been made to help our world achieve greater prosperity, equality, freedom and respect for human dignity, and to become a place where research and peacekeeping tirelessly persevere.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“Let me lastly applaud all those who have spoken from this rostrum for their pertinent remarks, in particular His Excellency President Barack Obama, who is also approaching the end of his term. He perfectly represents the United States of America – the tolerant America, the generous America, respectful of the universal values of freedom and the rule of law, and the America that the world wants. The theme of the current session is “The Sustainable Development Goals: a universal push to transform our world”. It fits in perfectly with the decision taken by international leaders 15 years ago to establish a set of world objectives: the Millennium Development Goals.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“Mogens Lykketoft, for having brilliantly led the General Assembly at its seventieth session. Let me also hail the efforts of Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. He has shown great talent throughout his term. As he nears the time to relinquish his duties, I wish to join in the unanimous tributes to his commitment to promoting peace, development and fighting climate change. The people and the Government of the Comoros are deeply grateful for the interest he has always shown in the development of the Union of the Comoros and, in particular, for the special attention that he paid to our most recent electoral process, ensuring its smooth running and its final results, which were unanimously accepted.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“I thank the international community and all of our partners, and the United Nations system in particular, for having always stood by our side. I hope that after the election their assistance will help us to consolidate political stability and to preserve democracy and the rule of law, so as to bring about the economic and social development of the country and the well-being of our people. Let me take this opportunity to congratulate the President of the General Assembly, Mr. Peter Thomson, on his election to head this seventy-first session. I am convinced that his experience and his proven knowledge of international issues, added to his personal brilliance, will lead the Assembly to great success at this session. I cannot fail to pay tribute to his predecessor, Mr.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“I welcome this opportunity to address the General Assembly for the first time since my election as President of the Union of the Comoros. I am very grateful to the people of the Comoros, who have made it possible for me to speak here on their behalf. I would like, from this lofty rostrum, to congratulate the people of the Comoros, who have been able to turn the page in terms of achieving political stability and to put aside useless discord to work together for the benefit of future generations. I am indeed the fourth President in 20 years to have been elected in a free, transparent and democratic election with internationally recognized results. My country has experienced its third peaceful handover of power, in which the opposition replaced the legitimate incumbent following peaceful elections.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“I thank our partner countries and organizations, particularly the Republic of South Africa and the African Union, which have always had 10 confidence in the Comorian people and stand by them in their resolve to achieve stability and well-being for every citizen. Together, we have an opportunity to guarantee a more just and more humane world. The international system's weaknesses, the blindness and the deafness, and the ill-fated and suicidal networks must be overcome, allowing the emergence of an international conscience, the guarantee of unity, peace and solidarity. The world needs each of us, every country and every difference, to guarantee its future. Let us commit ourselves, all together, with resolve and determination.”
2003-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 58 (2003)
“I do not believe it is useful to return to the ups and downs that have marked my country's historical development particularly the past few years, characterized by a secessionist crisis with tragic consequences. Today, I welcome the new- found normality and the significant progress achieved. We owe that success to Comorian wisdom, to the national conscience and to the multiform assistance of all our bilateral and multilateral partners. Today, we must still establish the Assemblies. But the Comorians are convinced that only real economic development can guarantee national cohesion and ensure a secure future. The international community's support is needed more than ever before.”
2003-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 58 (2003)
“Debt which is a true burden and is truly stifling developing economies must be circumscribed and overcome to liberate the countries of the South and to give them the capacity for real involvement in global wealth creation. But, in order to support the survival and emergence of our economies, we must also put an end to agricultural product subsidies in the countries of the North and let the market have free reign. Our countries seek and need support so that they can emerge from economic marginalization. Our assets and our potential deserve to be valued. Our efforts must be encouraged. My country, which believes in Africa's ability to take charge of itself, is facing its future with determination and responsibility.”
2003-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 58 (2003)
“In its development, the world if it is to be harmonious and stable must concern itself with and bear in mind the most vulnerable regions and the most disadvantaged countries. Among those, the small island States deserve particular attention so that we can bridge the development gap inherent to their geographical situation. Only economic development and thus real solidarity between rich and poor countries will guarantee stability and peace in the world. Thus will democracy and the rule of law be consolidated and strengthened. The New Partnership for Africa's Development an ambitious project conceived in Africa by Africans for Africans must be a reality that is supported by and profitable for all.”
2003-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 58 (2003)
“The dialogue of cultures openness towards the other must be a permanent inspiration in the commitment to a peaceful and responsible international life. Multilateralism which is the guarantee of participation by every nation in the world's progress must be safeguarded and strengthened. Therefore, we support the proposals of the Secretary-General, Mr. Kofi Annan, for a restructuring of the Organization so that it will be effective and can meet current challenges. In that way, the moral authority of the United Nations will be gradually restored and maintained. As for the Security Council the body charged with maintaining peace and security it must be reformed and its role must be fine-tuned. That is an essential condition for ensuring the success of its diverse missions.”
2003-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 58 (2003)