YouSaid · the spoken record

Zackheos

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25
first
1998-04-24
most recent
2002-04-03
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4
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un-security-council

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  1. The Government and the people of Cyprus, who traditionally have strong bonds of friendship with both the Palestinian and Israeli peoples, stand ready to play a constructive role towards the achievement of this goal. It is in this context that my Government has offered to host, later this month, in Nicosia, the next meeting of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, which we hope will contribute in its own way to building the necessary bridges of understanding between the Palestinian and Israeli peoples.

    2002-04-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4506Resumption1 (2002) · source

  2. We also welcome the declaration adopted at the recent Arab League meeting in Beirut, and we reiterate our support for a just and lasting settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict, based on Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973). We support a solution that will put an end to the occupation of Arab lands and to the plight of the Palestinian people, ensuring the fulfilment of their legitimate rights, including their right to an independent State. The solution of the Middle East problem will bring stability to this sensitive region of the world, will ensure normal relations and the safety and security of all countries of the region, and will put an end to violence, strengthening the forces of moderation and cooperation. Finally, allow me to reiterate the unwavering support of Cyprus for the pursuit of peace in the region.

    2002-04-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4506Resumption1 (2002) · source

  3. The Cyprus Government will support any international initiative or effort aimed at preventing the conflict from escalating further, and we urge those who have the power to do so to assist in achieving an immediate ceasefire and the return of the parties to the negotiating table. In that respect, we will support an increased and urgent role by the "quartet", and we call for the parties to cooperate fully with Special Envoy Zinni and others towards the implementation of the Tenet work plan and the Mitchell report's recommendations. We fully support the establishment of a third-party monitoring mechanism.

    2002-04-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4506Resumption1 (2002) · source

  4. We are particularly alarmed at reports of an impending operation against Palestinians who have sought refuge in the Church of the Nativity. We urge the resolution of this issue in such a way as to respect the sanctity of that most important religious site. The same goes for all other religious sites which have unfortunately fallen Victim to attack and unwarranted destruction due to the hostilities. We call on Israel, as the occupying Power, to abide by its international obligations and to exercise maximum restraint. Let me also underline that we strongly condemn any and all forms of terrorism, for which there is no justification, and we support the right of Israel and all other States of the region to live in peace and security.

    2002-04-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4506Resumption1 (2002) · source

  5. In that respect, we join the entire international community in calling for the immediate and full implementation of Security Council resolutions 1397 (2002) and 1402 (2002). We urge Israel to desist from actions the thrust of which is the collective punishment and humiliation of the Palestinian population and to avoid a disproportionate response to violence. We condemn the extrajudicial executions of Palestinians, which are illegal under international law. We also believe that actions against medical and humanitarian institutions and personnel are absolutely unacceptable. We call for full adherence to international law and international humanitarian law, including the Fourth Geneva Convention. In that regard, we express our opposition to illegal Israeli settlement activities.

    2002-04-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4506Resumption1 (2002) · source

  6. I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Cyprus Government. We have also aligned ourselves with the statement delivered by Spain on behalf of the European Union. The Government and the people of Cyprus express their profound concern and sorrow at the worsening situation in the Middle East and condemn Violence and any actions resulting in innocent victims, be they Israelis or Palestinians. We express full sympathy and solidarity with President Yasser Arafat, whom we consider the legitimate leader and representative of the Palestinian people, and we call upon the Israeli troops to withdraw immediately from Ramallah and the rest of the Palestinian territories. We also call for an immediate ceasefire and for resumption of dialogue in order to rescue the peace process.

    2002-04-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4506Resumption1 (2002) · source

  7. Their contribution to rebuilding their societies is important and must be guaranteed. One final point I would like to make concerns the incorporation of the gender dimension in the approach of the United Nations, its specialized agencies and other actors involved in peacekeeping, peace-building and reconciliation efforts associated with situations of armed conflict. My delegation strongly supports the inclusion of a gender perspective in the provision of humanitarian aid and in the reconciliation efforts following ceasefire agreements. We would also like to pay tribute to the crucial role played by non- governmental organizations in highlighting the issue and in providing practical assistance on the ground. Before concluding, I should also like to thank Ms. Angela King and, through her, the Division for the Advancement of Women, and Mrs.

    2000-10-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4208Resumption1 (2000) · source

  8. The Representative of the Secretary-General on Internally Displaced Persons estimates that 40 million people live today as refugees or internally displaced persons. Close to 80 per cent of these people are women and children. Their tragic situation and their vulnerability do not usually stop with the end of armed conflict. The vast majority of them continue to face the threat of Violations of their human rights long after the conflict has ended. The phenomena of sexual exploitation and trafficking and child labour, including the use of children as soldiers, are realities that we cannot ignore. That is why it is of extreme importance that the rights of women in post-conflict situations be secured through constitutional means, so that the injustices and suffering inflicted on them not be allowed to continue.

    2000-10-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4208Resumption1 (2000) · source

  9. Another issue which I would like to stress, with regard to the positive developments that have taken place in the last few years on the accountability of human rights violators, is the question of impunity. Cyprus warmly welcomes the efforts undertaken by the community of nations to finally put an end to impunity, as demonstrated in the inclusion, in the international criminal tribunals for the former Yugoslavia and for Rwanda, of the obligation to prosecute those responsible for the crimes of rape and sexual Violence in civil war as perpetrators of grave breaches of international humanitarian law. The inclusion, as a war crime, of all forms of sexual violence against women in the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court has been a major achievement in our common pursuit to end impunity for these abhorrent crimes.

    2000-10-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4208Resumption1 (2000) · source

  10. Their role in facing the adverse consequences of the invasion, occupation and displacement and in rebuilding our economy, despite their suffering, has been immense. That is why we fully support the position that women's rights during and following armed conflict must be safeguarded, and their participation in efforts to rebuild war-torn societies supported by every means possible. In this respect, we fully subscribe to the recommendations proposed by the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) and in the significant report entitled "Impact of armed conflict on children", prepared by Ms. Graga Machel, to whom I take this opportunity to express our deep appreciation.

    2000-10-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4208Resumption1 (2000) · source

  11. We hope that this open debate of the Security Council will lead to practical measures on the role of women in peace-building and on humanitarian issues and the protection of women during peacekeeping and post-conflict support operations. One way to achieve this would be through the establishment of an independent panel of experts with the participation of the Secretariat, relevant agencies and civil society. One of the areas on which my delegation places utmost importance is the plight of refugees and internally displaced persons. The painful experience of the displacement of almost one third of the population of my country in 1974 demonstrated to the Government and the people of Cyprus the central role of women in post-conflict and peace-building situations.

    2000-10-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4208Resumption1 (2000) · source

  12. Great numbers of women are not only under the constant threat of sexual violence and death; but often have to endure the loss of parents, children or husbands and are forced to assume the role of main breadwinner and carry the heavy economic burden of the survival of their families. It is imperative for the international community, and constitutes a special duty of the Security Council, to assist and protect these women and children. The Security Council, in responding to such crises, should always take into consideration their situation and suffering, and pursue solutions that are based on its resolutions.

    2000-10-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4208Resumption1 (2000) · source

  13. The most tragic aspect of armed conflict has been the heavy toll that civilians usually bear when caught between opposing armies. The proliferation of conflict in many areas of our planet and the gross violations of the most basic human rights of civilians have been a major concern of the international community, as testified to by the open debates that have taken place in this very Chamber concerning the protection of civilians in armed conflict, the protection of children and the protection of humanitarian assistance to refugees and others in conflict situations. The most negative aspect of armed conflict, with both short- and long-term effects, is the plight of the most vulnerable groups of civilians, namely women and children. During armed conflict, the effect on families and traditional ways of life can be devastating.

    2000-10-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4208Resumption1 (2000) · source

  14. Although my delegation aligns itself with the statement made on behalf of the European Union, I would like to make a few additional remarks. I would like at the outset to express my appreciation to you, Mr. President, for convening this open meeting of the Security Council on this most important and relevant subject. This initiative of the Namibian presidency confirms the principled and important role that Namibia, and you personally, Sir, play with respect to international issues and, in particular, in the promotion of human rights. We welcome this initiative as yet another step forward in the efforts of the international community, as expressed through open discussion in the Security Council, on matters pertaining to conflict prevention, peacemaking, peacekeeping and peace-building.

    2000-10-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4208Resumption1 (2000) · source

  15. Being so close to Africa, we have always had strong ties with the African peoples. These special bonds were forged during the decolonization era and by the presence of Cypriot communities in many African countries. Cyprus, within its capabilities, has consistently offered assistance to African countries. In particular, the Cyprus Government is providing scholarships for graduate and post-graduate programmes in various fields, as well as special programmes such as nursing. We pledge our continued support to the efforts of the international community, in solidarity with Africa, to confront the AIDS pandemic and to strengthen peace, cooperation and development in the continent.

    2000-01-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4087Resumption1 (2000) · source

  16. Of course the United Nations role remains indispensable. Speaking about international cooperation on this issue, I would like to stress once again the need for helping Africa overcome its serious economic problems, which, despite progress in some countries, still persist. Noting the courage and the burden carried by African countries in pursuing economic reform, we believe that the international community should redouble its efforts to alleviate the suffering of millions of people in the continent. Special attention should be given to debt relief and the needs of the least developed countries and other African countries that are in danger of marginalization. Part of the savings resulting from debt relief can be effectively utilized for awareness campaigns about HIV/AIDS and for better infrastructure to assist the victims of this disease.

    2000-01-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4087Resumption1 (2000) · source

  17. Over the years, through the efforts of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and of international and regional conferences, many of the taboos and myths about HIV have been dispelled. It is important that, on such a sensitive issue, people be provided with the necessary knowledge and health information, which will act as the best preventive measure. While our specific discussion concerns the region of Africa, we must not lose sight of the fact that AIDS is an international epidemic which requires a global response based on a common strategy, solidarity and compassion, as well as close coordination between Governments, non- governmental organizations, including organizations dealing with people living with HIV/AIDS, religious organizations and the business community.

    2000-01-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4087Resumption1 (2000) · source

  18. We hope that the dialogue that is being initiated today in the Security Council will address not only the major scientific and medical challenges which remain but also the socio-economic consequences in many countries. We need, however, to go beyond discussions and pursue effective solutions and practical responses. Sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing a disproportionately high level of the epidemic, which is causing great human and material suffering. We must also address the need to invigorate the efforts to make scientific discoveries and to provide solutions to stop the transmission of the disease. Efforts to develop a vaccine which will not be costly and will not have severe side effects must be intensified. In this respect, I would also stress the need for HIV screening of blood donors.

    2000-01-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4087Resumption1 (2000) · source

  19. Cyprus considers the discussion in the Security Council to be a good opportunity for refocusing the attention of the international community and its commitment to confronting this pandemic, as well as to supporting Africa's endeavours for economic and social development, which is inextricably linked with strengthening regional peace and security. The AIDS epidemic is a serious threat to mankind, and especially to Africa, since, as was so grimly pointed out, it takes more African lives each year than all the conflicts in that region combined. We also express our particular concern about the rising number of infected children and women.

    2000-01-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4087Resumption1 (2000) · source

  20. My delegation aligns itself with the statement made on behalf of the European Union. However, I would like to make a few additional remarks. I wish at the outset to express my Government's appreciation for your initiative, Mr. President, to convene this open meeting of the Security Council. We are encouraged by the fact that the Vice-President of the United States, Mr. Al Gore, opened this first Council meeting of the year 2000 and by his pledge of increased United States contributions. We share the concern expressed by the Secretary-General at this grave humanitarian emergency facing the world, particularly in Africa, with the spread of HIV/AIDS.

    2000-01-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4087Resumption1 (2000) · source

  21. Being so close to Africa, we have always had strong ties with the African peoples, especially in our common goal to implement the provisions of the United Nations Charter, which has always been a major factor of our foreign policy. Cyprus, within its potential, has consistently offered assistance to African countries. In particular, the Cyprus Government is providing scholarships for graduate and postgraduate programmes, especially in the fields of tourism, management, forestry and nursing, where we have comparative advantages and experience. We have also participated in election-monitoring in some African countries. We pledge our continued support to the efforts of the international community, in solidarity with Africa, to strengthen peace, cooperation and development in the continent.

    1998-04-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3875Resumption1 (1998) · source

  22. While we note the progress made in some African countries, we observe that serious economic problems still persist. Noting the courage and burden of African countries in pursuit of economic reform, we believe that the international community should redouble its efforts to alleviate the suffering of millions of people. Special attention should be given to debt relief and to the needs of the least developed countries in Africa. Economic development and social justice need to be addressed as matters of high priority in order to enable Africa to meet challenges and take advantage of opportunities which have emerged internationally in recent years. My country, located at the crossroads of three continents, has long been a bridge of cooperation in the region.

    1998-04-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3875Resumption1 (1998) · source

  23. We note in this respect the contribution of Nelson Mandela, one of the greatest figures of the twentieth century. A major concern of the international community, however, is the alarming number of mostly internal armed conflicts in the continent, which, in addition to endangering peace and stability, cause extreme suffering, especially to women and children. In this respect, we welcome the realistic recommendations of the Secretary- General. In general, we support the close coordination for early action and prevention between the United Nations, the European Union and subregional groups. Our special preoccupation, in view of similar bitter experiences since 1974, is the plight of more than 8 million refugees and displaced persons. This problem needs to be addressed urgently on the basis of human rights norms.

    1998-04-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3875Resumption1 (1998) · source

  24. Cyprus considers this discussion in the Security Council as a good opportunity for refocusing the attention of the international community and its commitment to strengthen peace and security and to support Africa's endeavours for economic and social development. We believe that Africa, with its talented people and vast fertile lands, has the capability to face the challenge and emerge as a significant factor in world politics in the next century. Cyprus welcomes the positive developments taking place across Africa in the political field. We have been encouraged by the democratization process and the efforts of African countries in the field of protection of human rights. We have also rejoiced at the termination of the abhorrent policy of apartheid, which constituted an affront to human civilization.

    1998-04-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3875Resumption1 (1998) · source

  25. Allow me to extend to you, Sir, my congratulations and to express my confidence that, under your widely acknowledged wisdom and leadership, our deliberations will be successful. My delegation has aligned itself with the statement made on behalf of the European Union, but in view of the special significance of the item under discussion, I would like to make a few additional remarks. At the outset, I would like to pay tribute to the Secretary-General and extend our appreciation for his excellent, thorough report and to commend him for the special importance the Secretariat and he personally attach to the promotion of durable peace and sustainable development in Africa. His recommendations merit the most serious consideration and support of the international community.

    1998-04-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3875Resumption1 (1998) · source