YouSaid · the spoken record

Vassilakis

lines on the record: 733
first: 1994-04-21
most recent: 2006-12-20
sittings or episodes: 111
sources: un-security-council

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

“In the case of Ethiopia and Eritrea, the renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea (UNMEE) gave the Security Council the opportunity to address the stalemate in the settlement of the differences between the two countries. In the case of Cote d'Ivoire, the Security Council decided to reinforce the arms embargo. Individual sanctions have not yet been put into effect, in order to give the African Union's mediation effort time to bear fruit. With the security situation deteriorating, there is a strong feeling among Council members that individual sanctions should become effective. The Security Council earlier adopted a resolution on the Democratic Republic of the Congo arms embargo in order to better define and strengthen its scope and implementation.”
2005-03-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5156 (2005) · source
“No one should doubt the serious concern of the members of the Security Council as regards the Sudan, the largest country in Africa, where a two-decades-long war has claimed the lives of more than 2 million people. The adoption of the resolution authorizing the deployment of a United Nations Mission of more than 10,000 people represents a positive contribution to the effective implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement of Nairobi. It also gives rise to real hope that this agreement will serve as a model for the settlement of the conflict in Darfur. The continuation of the crisis in Darfur led the Council to adopt further measures to be taken if the parties do not comply with the relevant Security Council resolutions. The issue of impunity for crimes committed in Darfur is also of paramount importance.”
2005-03-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5156 (2005) · source
“This shows clearly the genuine concern that the Security Council has for Africa. At the same time, unfortunately, it proves also that significant parts of Africa continue to be affected by armed conflict. In certain parts conflict has only recently ceased, and in others the situation is so precarious that it might lead to conflict. Africa has indeed been at the centre of the Security Council's attention and action. It could be useful to describe very briefly some of the cases in order to emphasize their common characteristics and to draw lessons that could contribute not only to an improvement in the work of the Security Council, but also to a better approach to resolving the issues.”
2005-03-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5156 (2005) · source
“Mr. President, I wish to express our appreciation to you, to your colleagues and to your country for putting the item on the African dimension in the work of the Security Council high on our agenda. Today's discussion will enrich our perspective by enabling us to hear views from the broader membership of the United Nations. It will allow us to make observations and draw conclusions which will have a positive effect on the outcome of the work of the Council. Greece fully aligns itself with the statement made earlier by the Permanent Representative of Luxembourg on behalf of the European Union. During the month of March, as it had done previously, the Security Council continued to discuss many issues pertaining to peace and security in several African countries.”
2005-03-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5156 (2005) · source
“The recent dramatic incident in Logouale shows how volatile the security situation is and how easily violence could escalate further. We therefore call upon all the parties involved, in particular the Ivorian leaders, to face up to their responsibilities and to implement the terms of the peace process and the relevant Security Council resolutions. The upcoming meeting scheduled to take place in April in Pretoria will give them another opportunity, which they should grasp, in order to bring peace to their country.”
2005-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5152 (2005) · source
“In that respect, in my capacity as Chairman of the Committee established pursuant to paragraph 14 of resolution 1572 (2004), I would like to appeal to all Member States of the region that have not yet done so to submit to the Committee the relevant information on national measures that they have taken for the strict implementation of the arms embargo. The international community is following the situation in Cote d'Ivoire very closely. It would be particularly pleased to see the situation improve very soon, and the country return to peace and stability. If the situation continues to be volatile, there will be no other option but to proceed to the full implementation of resolution 1572 (2004) against those obstructing the peace process and committing Violations of human rights.”
2005-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5152 (2005) · source
“The implementation of resolutions 1572 (2004) and 1584 (2005) is of the utmost importance for the improvement of the security situation in the country. We are grateful to the United Nations Operation in Cote d'Ivoire (UNOCI) and the Licorne forces for their efforts to monitor the implementation of the embargo. Taking into account the lack of progress in the peace process, we fully subscribe to the suggestion of the Secretary-General to reinforce the capacity of UNOCI and to provide it with additional resources in order that it may more effectively be able to fulfil its difficult mandate. May I use this opportunity to recall that the arms embargo is an obligation binding on all Member States. That obligation is of particular relevance to the countries of the region.”
2005-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5152 (2005) · source
“His warning that, if the arming and the activities of militias are not controlled there will be a very real danger that events may spin out of control, with incalculable consequences for the people of Cote d'Ivoire and the subregion as a whole, is even more disturbing. It is regrettable that, despite the laudable efforts of President Mbeki on behalf of the African Union to advance the plan of action agreed upon by the parties in December 2004, important proposals contained in that plan have not yet been implemented. Unfortunately, progress has been limited and the country remains divided. The Ivorian parties, particularly those controlling militia groups, should exercise restraint and hold their leaders accountable for their attacks against civilians and peacekeepers.”
2005-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5152 (2005) · source
“I would like to welcome the presence of the Secretary-General and to express our appreciation for his recent and insightful report on the situation in C6te d'Ivoire (S/2005/186). Many thanks go also to Mr. Alan Doss for the clarity of his briefing. We would also like to express our thanks to President Mbeki of South Africa for his tireless efforts to bring peace back to a country that had for a long time been an example of peace and prosperity in the region. We also wish to thank Mr. Aziz Pahad for having taken the time to come to New York to brief the members of the Security Council. The observation of the Secretary-General that the security situation remains precarious makes us all feel deeply concerned.”
2005-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5152 (2005) · source
“The return home of the one-millionth refugee deserves to be seen as a turning point in the return process since the Dayton-Paris Peace Accords. The signature of a landmark memorandum of understanding between the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Council of Europe Development Bank for the permanent housing of displaced persons is also a very welcome development. Today, we have heard an encouraging assessment. Bosnia and Herzegovina is on the right track, and is very close to reaching the end of the journey. We encourage the authorities and the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina to find the strength and the will to complete this last mile.”
2005-03-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5147 (2005) · source
“It strengthens the capacity of the Bosnia and Herzegovina authorities to uphold the rule of law. The news from the point of view of economic reform is very positive. Progress towards the creation of a single economic area is well under way, and the impact on the everyday lives of the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina cannot be emphasized enough. Security sector reform and police restructuring remain key factors, essential missing elements in the overall picture of progress. The adoption of new laws on police officials, on a new immigration service and on the State Border Service, and the other reported progress at the structural level, are welcome developments. Nevertheless, implementation will be the criterion upon which judgement will be passed and on the basis of which results will be measured.”
2005-03-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5147 (2005) · source
“Greece welcomes the continuous progress of Bosnia and Herzegovina on the path of reform. The importance of the achievements made to date should not be underestimated or taken for granted. A new State is being created - from the beginning in certain areas. The country has come close to reaching its goals. It is imperative to tackle the areas where more progress and effort are required. Full compliance and cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for a Former Yugoslavia (ICTY) is a precondition for a European future. The recent surrenders of accused individuals are an encouraging sign that we cannot fail to welcome. This trend should continue. Progress in the establishment and operationalization of the War Crimes Chamber is another welcome sign of political maturity.”
2005-03-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5147 (2005) · source
“We too thank the High Representative for the Implementation of the Peace Agreement on Bosnia and Herzegovina, Lord Ashdown, for the report transmitted through the Secretary-General (S/2005/156, annex, enclosure) and for his briefing this morning. My delegation also welcomes the presence among us of Mr. Barisa Colak, Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Greece associates itself with the statement which will soon be delivered by the representative of Luxembourg on behalf of the European Union. The tenth anniversary of the end of the war is close. Bosnia and Herzegovina now faces a different time; a Euro-Atlantic future will reward the efforts of recent years. The launch of Operation Althea and its successful conduct so far epitomize this new era.”
2005-03-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5147 (2005) · source
“The international community has invested a lot of money and effort in making Timor-Leste a success story. We should not allow it to falter at the last stages. There are various ideas about how to continue providing assistance. We need to explore all available options and come up with the one most suitable, under the circumstances, so that the people of Timor-Leste can enjoy every chance to consolidate their achievements and successfully pursue their quest for peace, stability and development towards they future they dream of and deserve. The Secretary-General has submitted some proposals. Greece would have no difficulties supporting them.”
2005-02-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5132 (2005) · source
“Establishing sustainable State institutions, including in the judicial and financial sectors, border management and control, law enforcement, respect of human rights, and the promotion of democratic governance and rule of law. Timor-Leste and its people have traveled a long way in the past five years and the presence and assistance of the international community have been of crucial importance in the successful outcome of their efforts. The journey is not over yet. Dealing with the remaining challenges requires additional help on the part of the international community. The Timorese ask for that help and the Secretary-General thinks that it is necessary. In this case, Greece believes that the request for help cannot and should not go unanswered.”
2005-02-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5132 (2005) · source
“Dealing with the difficult problems of the past, especially human rights violations, and ending the perpetrators' impunity are necessary measures in order to create a solid base of confidence and stable conditions for further improvement in their relations. The Secretary- General's decision to establish a commission of experts to assist the parties in their quest for justice and reconciliation is highly commendable in that regard. The bitter past is behind them. The Timorese people can now focus on building their country and improving the conditions of everyday life, especially in the health, nutrition and education sectors. As in all similar cases, there is a lot still to be done.”
2005-02-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5132 (2005) · source
“The role of the United Nations Mission of Support in East Timor has been a central one in the preservation of peace and stability in the country. We are grateful for the hard work of all its personnel, as well as of all the development and humanitarian agencies and financial institutions of the United Nations system involved in the economic reconstruction, social advancement and general peacebuilding efforts in the country. The Secretary-General, in his report, records the current positive developments in the overall internal situation in Timor-Leste, as well as the continued positive trends in the country's relations with Indonesia. We warmly welcome all steps towards peace and reconciliation between the two neighbours. In that context, the establishment of the Truth and Friendship Commission is of particular importance.”
2005-02-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5132 (2005) · source
“Allow me first to express our deep condolences to the Government of Bangladesh for the loss of eight of its peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. I would like to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Sukehiro Hasegawa, for introducing the Secretary-General's report and updating the Council on the situation in Timor-Leste. Greece fully aligns itself with the statement to be made later by the Permanent Representative of Luxembourg on behalf of the European Union. I would also like to welcome among us the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Timor- Leste. It is always a pleasure to have him here. Since independence in 2002, there is no doubt that remarkable progress has been made in Timor- Leste, primarily due to the determination and the efforts of its citizens and the Timorese Government.”
2005-02-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5132 (2005) · source
“Moreover, as a member of the European Union, Greece has been actively contributing to overall efforts for peace, stability and development in the region. In concluding, I would like to reiterate our strong conviction that only through a close and coordinated partnership of all those involved, including civil society, will it be possible for the international community to reconcile immediate requirements with long-term goals.”
2005-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5131 (2005) · source
“The Secretary-General's report therefore rightly points out that the subregion continues to be confronted by the phenomenon of violent military adventurism aimed at seizing power, which constitutes a threat to stability and hinders the process of peacebuilding in individual West African countries. Greece therefore strongly supports the initiatives taken by ECOWAS and United Nations agencies in West Africa in introducing integrated policies to reform the security sector, thus enhancing stability and democratic governance in the region. My Government, recognizing the efforts made by ECOWAS, has recently made a substantial offer in order to promote ECOWAS activities. We will continue to do so to the extent of our ability.”
2005-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5131 (2005) · source
“We also acknowledge that the illegal trafficking of arms poses a serious threat to peace and stability in the region, and we affirm our support for the strict implementation of the relevant Security Council resolutions. We also welcome the extension for three more years of the ECOWAS moratorium on the import, export and manufacture of small arms and light weapons and encourage the efforts being made to transform it into a legally binding instrument. We believe that, by publicly naming those who violate the arms embargo and the ECOWAS moratorium in order to bring them to justice, we would not only demonstrate our determination to reinforce the implementation of the resolutions of the Security Council, but also create a factor of deterrence for those who might wish to violate them in the future.”
2005-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5131 (2005) · source
“African ownership of the whole endeavour is a basic element of our approach. West African States should be helped to enhance their capacity to pursue policies aimed at social and economic development in order to eliminate the possibility of future conflicts. Turning to specific cross-border issues, it is development which provides a guarantee for the successful reintegration of ex-combatants into society and for finding lasting solutions to youth unemployment, thus eliminating the risk of ex-soldiers' being recruited once again by parties to a conflict. Greece welcomes the call for a regional disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) plan of action, made at Dakar in August 2004 by United Nations peace missions, United Nations agencies and other development partners.”
2005-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5131 (2005) · source
“The victims of today's conflicts in West Africa have been predominantly civilians, regardless of their nationality. Improving regional integration and cooperation in all areas of conflict management, conflict prevention and peacebuilding will therefore be of significant benefit to the well-being of the people of the whole region. West Africa should be a high priority for all. As the Secretary-General points out in his report, while several States in the region have already embarked on a serious effort towards economic and democratic reform, there are still others where conflict persists, threatening the stability and security of all. Addressing, in an effective manner, the longstanding structural macro-economic, human rights and governance failure has therefore taken on new and more urgent meaning.”
2005-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5131 (2005) · source
“Greece fully aligns itself with the statement to be made at a later stage by the Permanent Representative of Luxembourg on behalf of the European Union. Civil conflicts and their severe humanitarian impact, the subsequent flow of refugees, the increasing use of mercenaries and child soldiers, the proliferation of small arms, the mismanagement of natural resources, failed economies and endemic corruption are prominent among the factors contributing to instability and requiring a wider and multifaceted approach covering the entire region. The development of a comprehensive regional approach to deal with those issues is a priority goal of increasing importance and could also contribute to treating the interlinked root causes of the region's complex problems.”
2005-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5131 (2005) · source
“First of all, I would like to express our appreciation to you personally, Mr. President, and to the Government of Benin for giving the item on cross-border issues in West Africa high priority on the agenda, thus underscoring the serious concern about the threat to regional peace and stability posed by cross-border problems and trans-national illegal activities. Greece welcomes the report of the Secretary- General and wishes to express its appreciation for the analysis of the main challenges and the relevant recommendations contained therein. I would also like to commend the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for his effective efforts in addressing the issue, and the representative of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for his insightful comments.”
2005-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5131 (2005) · source
“Cultural monuments are part both of the history and identity of the communities in Kosovo and of the common heritage of the region. Their preservation is not only a sign of respect, but a duty as well. We are certain that, with the assistance of the international community, the right framework of protection will be formulated and that reconstruction programmes will be promptly implemented. The road ahead for Kosovo has been clearly defined, within the parameters of Security Council resolution 1244 (1999). As we are nearing the time of the comprehensive review, progress has to be taken forward beyond the first encouraging signs and uneven results. A lot is still expected from the provisional authorities, as indeed the people of Kosovo expect a lot from the international community.”
2005-02-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5130 (2005) · source
“Covie to the Special Representative of the Secretary-General calling for a resumption of the meetings of the working groups on missing persons and energy, and we join the Secretary- General's call to the Kosovo Serbs for engagement in the local reform process. A key challenge in the whole process remains addressing the problems of the Kosovo economy. Progress in privatization is essential, along with the strengthening of institutional capacity and infrastructure. This is necessary in order to successfully tackle the explosive unemployment plaguing the society, particularly among young people, and potentially undermining efforts for stability and development. The restoration of all religious sites and property should be a priority for the provisional authorities.”
2005-02-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5130 (2005) · source
“The new notion, set out in the report, of differentiating between the reality and the perception of security for the minorities can be misleading. And in any case winning the battle against perception is sometimes winning half the war. A serious effort to revitalize the returns process and to improve freedom of movement and the public- sector employment rates of members of minorities, and, in general, a robust outreach to minorities by the provisional authorities at all governmental levels, would go a long way towards ensuring real and full progress. As the Secretary-General several times emphasizes in his report, there cannot be full progress in standards implementation without the participation of the Kosovo Serbs and, thus, without a resumption of the dialogue with Belgrade. In that spirit, we welcome the recent letter from Mr.”
2005-02-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5130 (2005) · source
“In the months to come, we should therefore ensure that due attention be paid not only to the observance of the listed actions and recommendations under the standards Plan, but also on how that translates in the reality of the lives of the communities on the ground. Encouraged though we may be by the early signs of progress, now is the time to focus on the obvious shortcomings. Progress, as amply demonstrated in the report, is for the most part limited to the central power institution structures, with the rest of the system unwilling or unable to follow. The report also rightly points to the fact that the Provisional Institutions have failed to embark on the crucial undertaking of rebuilding the confidence and trust of the minorities.”
2005-02-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5130 (2005) · source
“The new Government has indeed undertaken serious efforts to accelerate the implementation of the standards, prioritizing those most affecting minority communities. A number of elements from the Standards Implementation Plan are reportedly complete. A number of new mechanisms have been set up and a number of measures taken or are envisaged to be taken. And yet, we have to note with concern that, as the report recognizes, none of the standards has been fully implemented, while there is a discrepancy between the progress reported in the implementation of the standards and the equally verified widening of the gap in the ethnic divide among the two communities.”
2005-02-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5130 (2005) · source
“We agree with the analysis of the Secretary- General that, in the aftermath of elections and the creation of a coalition Government in October 2004, the international community is witnessing encouraging signs of commitment by the leadership of the Provisional Institutions to the implementation of the standards. We also share the Secretary-General's overall assessment that, while concrete steps have been taken in some areas, the progress is uneven. The transition from the elections to the installation of the new coalition Government was held in a smooth and democratic manner that showed increasing maturity on behalf of the Provisional Institutions and the Kosovar political parties. That maturity has, however, to be extended to all parts of Kosovar political life and especially to the implementation of the standards.”
2005-02-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5130 (2005) · source
“I would like to thank the Secretary-General for his report on the activities of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK). We also would like to thank his Special Representative and head of UNMIK, Mr. Jessen-Petersen, for his comprehensive briefing on the situation in the region. I would also like to thank the President of the Coordination Centre of Serbia and Montenegro and of the Republic of Serbia for Kosovo and Metohija, Mr. Nebosja Covic', for his participation in today's meeting. Greece associates itself fully with the statement that will soon be made by the Ambassador of Luxembourg on behalf of the European Union.”
2005-02-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5130 (2005) · source
“In concluding my remarks, I would like to congratulate Benin for keeping the issue of children and armed conflict high on the agenda of the Security Council by presenting a draft resolution destined to be our trigger for action that we hope to be able to agree upon at a later stage. We all share responsibility in taking action to stop the recruitment and all acts of abuse that children suffer in armed conflicts throughout the world. The perpetrators have to be made accountable for their crimes. There is no other way to protect the lives of our innocent children, our hope and our future.”
2005-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5129 (2005) · source
“We hope that the Security Council will soon be able to agree on the relevant resolution, currently under discussion. With regard to post-conflict situations, special attention should be given to ensuring that all children are included in all disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) processes and that their specific needs, such as medical support, education and reunification with their families, are being addressed. The vulnerable situation of girls also deserves special care. Greece is committed to contributing funds to the DDR programmes for children through the European Union's Plan of Action on Children and Armed Conflicts.”
2005-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5129 (2005) · source
“Therefore, having a complete set of the necessary legal and judicial tools at our disposal, what remains to be done is to take action. We welcome the strong focus on compliance in the Secretary-General's report, in particular the recommendation that the Security Council impose targeted measures against those parties named in the two annexes who do not meet their obligations for compliance. In that context the fifth report indeed paves the way, in the words of the Secretary-General, to an era of application. The Secretary-General's action plan to establish a systematic and comprehensive monitoring and reporting mechanism contains important elements that would enhance the protection of children in situations of armed conflict. It has the full support of Greece.”
2005-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5129 (2005) · source
“All States must become parties to this Protocol and must implement its provisions. Greece has ratified it and as a European Union member State is also committed to the implementation of the European Union Guidelines on Children and Armed Conflict adopted in 2003. Secondly, the international community must not allow impunity to prevail as regards serious crimes against children in armed conflict. The perpetrators of such crimes must be brought to justice. In that respect, we would like to underline the importance of the International Criminal Court in pursuing accountability. The Rome Statute provides a clear legal basis, as it stipulates that the use of children under the age of fifteen as soldiers in armed conflict is a war crime.”
2005-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5129 (2005) · source
“The current situation in the Sudan is just an example of the complexities of the issue. The information concerning sexual exploitation and abuse in the Democratic Republic of the Congo committed by United Nations peacekeeping personnel demonstrates how widespread and serious the situation is. The response of the United Nations must be unequivocally a zero-tolerance policy. All of us agree that we have to act and act soon. But how can we do that in order to get the long-awaited results? As the report points out, in recent years we have succeeded in establishing a comprehensive international legal framework for the protection of war-affected children. I have two comments on that issue. First, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child provides that no one under the age of 18 should be recruited by any army.”
2005-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5129 (2005) · source
“We would also like to commend the remarkable work done in the last seven years by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, Mr. Olara Otunnu. The report of the Secretary-General provides us with evidence and data on progress made towards reducing the number of child soldiers and redressing the horrendous acts of abuse inflicted upon children who are caught in armed conflict situations. However, children continue to be recruited, killed, maimed, abducted, sexually abused and exploited in armed conflicts. The report specifies 42 armed groups in 11 countries that are recruiting and abusing children in war zones. We witness progress in one war situation and at the same time there is a drawback in another armed conflict, even in the same country.”
2005-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5129 (2005) · source
“I would like to begin by thanking you, Mr. President, for convening this open debate on children and armed conflict. Your presence here manifests the commitment of the Government of Benin to this very important and sensitive issue. Greece fully associates herself with the statement to be delivered later by the Ambassador of Luxembourg to the United Nations on behalf of the European Union. Nevertheless, I wish to make the following remarks. The Secretary-General has presented a substantive report. In our View, the fifth report on children and armed conflict has fully addressed the recommendations of Security Council resolution 1539 (2004), and specific proposals have been submitted.”
2005-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5129 (2005) · source
“Last but not least, the Council should urge all Member States fully and effectively to implement all recommendations of the Secretary-General, who should also be requested to produce a further update on the matter when the Council is next seized with the question of small arms and light weapons.”
2005-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5127 (2005) · source
“If it is well implemented, it will enhance stability in conflict-torn countries. Measures also have to be taken to ensure strict compliance with United Nations embargoes and sanctions in conflict areas. The Council should spare no effort to stop the proliferation of small arms and light weapons or to identify potential links between the illicit trade in those weapons and the illicit exploitation of natural and other resources. Zero tolerance for smugglers has to be the rule. Countries also have to exert some restraint when they are exporting to conflict areas, even when an arms embargo has not yet been imposed.”
2005-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5127 (2005) · source
“One can nevertheless not overlook the fact that, in some instances, small arms and light weapons that start out legally ultimately arrive at illegal destinations. That loophole has to be effectively addressed through severe measures in the national legislation of all countries. Given that small arms are inoperable without ammunition, the flow of ammunition for small arms and light weapons must also be brought under control. My country has actively participated in the programme to destroy excessive ammunition in Albania. We support the view that the Security Council, in its consideration of peacekeeping operations, always has the duty to introduce a component dealing with the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of combatants into their local societies. That is a measure of paramount importance.”
2005-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5127 (2005) · source
“Another means to combat the illicit trade is the adoption of end-user certificates. Both the European Union and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe have relevant provisions in place that emphasize the implementation of that plan. End-user certificates will help to discover whether arms destined for legal uses have been diverted to illegal recipients, thereby limiting the flow of small arms and light weapons to unauthorized or undesired users. If such a measure is universalized, it will contribute greatly to our legal arsenal in the fight to eradicate the illicit flow of small arms and light weapons. In accordance with Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations, all countries have an inherent right to self-defence. The armed forces and police of States therefore need small arms and light weapons.”
2005-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5127 (2005) · source
“The first Biennial Meeting of Member States on the Implementation of the 2001 Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons was held in July 2003 to exchange experiences. The second such meeting will be convened in July 2005, and a review conference is planned for the following year. We hope that this ongoing effort will lead to a positive outcome. Pursuant to General Assembly resolution 58/241, an open-ended working group was established in order to negotiate an instrument on marking and tracing. The group made considerable progress in its first two sessions, although some substantial issues are still open. Greece hopes that all pending issues will be resolved during the next meeting. A new legally binding instrument on marking and tracing will greatly facilitate the eradication of small arms and light weapons.”
2005-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5127 (2005) · source
“The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons has contributed to their unlimited proliferation. Several million small arms and light weapons are illegally possessed by either transnational crime organizations or non-State actors. It is estimated that the victims of small arms and light weapons total 500,000 annually, a large proportion of them being children and civilians. Most affected by this modern scourge are developing countries. In order to contain this modern plague on humankind, in 2001 the United Nations adopted the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects. Its implementation is of paramount importance.”
2005-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5127 (2005) · source
“I would first like to thank you, Mr. President, for convening today's meeting on the very serious subject of small arms and light weapons. The mere fact that the Council is seized with the subject for the fifth time proves its relevance. We welcome the report of the Secretary-General on small arms. We would very much like to thank Under-Secretary-General Abe for the clarity of his presentation. We also welcome Ms. Kawaguchi. I would also like to thank my Japanese colleagues for their careful preparation of the draft presidential statement that the Council will adopt at this meeting. We associate ourselves with the statement to be made shortly by Ambassador Jean-Marc Hoscheit, Permanent Representative of Luxembourg, on behalf of the European Union. I would nevertheless like to make the following points.”
2005-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5127 (2005) · source
“The review of peacekeeping operations should nevertheless be carried out in accordance with objective criteria and the existing conditions on the ground and should be defined by factors of substance after assessment of the risks involved in each specific situation. Needless to say, the opinion and views of the host country play an important role and should be taken into consideration appropriately.”
2005-01-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5117 (2005) · source
“The Security Council has just adopted resolution 1583 (2005), extending the mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon for another six months. I would like to emphasize the cooperative spirit that prevailed during its preparation. The unanimous adoption proves the Council's feeling that the situation that continues to prevail on the ground is still threatening peace and security in the area. There is one element the resolution about which we would like to express some thoughts. It is well understood that the increased number of peacekeeping operations worldwide, with an ever-expanding range of activities to be carried out, has created an urgent need to review the structures of current peacekeeping operations so as to achieve greater operational efficiency through the utilization of limited resources.”
2005-01-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5117 (2005) · source
“Finally, we welcome the forthcoming fourth special meeting of the CTC with international, regional and subregional organizations, to be held in Almaty, Kazakhstan, in cooperation with the Commonwealth of Independent States and the Government of Kazakhstan. Such meetings enhance the current level of cooperation with international organizations, contribute to avoiding duplication of activities and increase the effectiveness of resource utilization.”
2005-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5113 (2005) · source
“Following resolution 1566 (2004), we support the development of a set of best practices, in consultation with relevant international, regional and subregional organizations and United Nations bodies, to assist States in implementing resolution 1373 (2001). Concerning the main tasks of the Committee over the next three months, Greece welcomes the decision of the Committee to undertake its first visit to a United Nations Member State. Such visits, carried out with the consent of States, could be useful in terms of establishing a better dialogue with such States and of providing a more accurate picture of the situation on the ground.”
2005-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5113 (2005) · source