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October 8-17, 2001
Back to the 2001 General Debate IndexAlgeria: "[Algeria] was pleased with the process that was combating the destabilizing effects of the illicit small arms trade. The measures formulated at the recent global Conference were as realistic as they were appropriate, and the action programme had his [government's] full support."
Angola (Jose Paulino Cunha da Silva, October 12): "Despite our effort and determination, small arms and light weapons continue to land in the hands of terrorist groups, rebels and other unlawful elements. ... The challenge we have before us is the strengthening of cooperation...that can lead us to the full implementation of the measures contained in the programme of action. ... Angola as a state party to the [Ottawa Convention]...is strongly committed to its effective implementation. ... Angola is also committed to strengthening this framework where it is possible to do so, and in our view a transfer ban on anti-personnel landmines would complement and reinforce existing instruments. In Angola, we have in place what we call the national programme of action against mines. ... Nevertheless, we are faced with the problem that in many areas already identified as mine areas [where] we have placed signs to avoid more victims...the UNITA rebels...are taking those signs out..."
Argentina: "[T]he United Nations Conference on small arms had marked a turning point in the attitude of States to the illicit trafficking of such weapons. The programme of action tried to put an end to their illicit transfer by making transfers more transparent. The Ottawa Conventions had succeeded in realizing the call for the elimination of landmines... Argentina had hosted a region-wide seminar on mine destruction last year. It was hoped that the next review conference on certain conventional arms would strengthen the legal instrument, and make it applicable to all conflicts, whether international or internal."
Armenia: "[Armenia] supported efforts to curb the trade of small arms, which was a priority for its own defence... In cooperation with international partners, Armenia had been working to adapt relevant national measures. In order to bolster international peace and security and stop the trade in small arms and light weapons, the international community should implement all measures agreed to in the programme of action adopted at the recent United Nations conference... [L]andmines posed a grave threat to international peace and security and the Ottawa Convention had made a significant difference in reducing the dangers of anti-personnel mines. Though Armenia supported the aims of the Ottawa Convention, its full participation was contingent upon similar level of political commitment by other States in the region."
ASEAN: "ASEAN countries [express the]...hope that the [small arms] programme of action...be implemented effectively. At the same time, we regret that the Conference failed to achieve agreement on two core issues..., i.e. strict control over private ownership of small arms and prevention of supplies of small arms to non-state groups. In this connection, we join the call made by the Secretary-General...on [UN] member states to double their efforts to work on a ban on supplying small arms to non-state actors."
Australia: "The programme of action includes 85 practical measures for addressing the problems posed by small arms. We must now fully implement the programme. Australia's efforts will focus on encouraging implementation...in our own region. A key objective will be to support the development of model legislation for a common approach to weapons control in the South Pacific, and to continue to provide practical assistance to facilitate more effective control over weapons stockpiles. Australia also welcomes the strong growth in the number of states which have joined the Ottawa Convention...over the past year. ... As the deadline for stockpile destruction draws near for many countries, we will also be working as co-Chair of the Standing Committee on Stockpile Destruction to support this important obligation under the Convention."
Bahrain: "The illicit small arms trade and its proliferation worldwide had thwarted human development, violated human rights, and compromised security and stability... That illicit trade was as dangerous to security as the risk posed by weapons of mass destruction. The action plan adopted at the small arms conference was a first step towards preventing the illicit small arms trade."
Bangladesh: "In the first ever [small arms] programme of action...clear commitments have been made by the participating states, with steps to be taken at the national, regional and global levels. We should not falter now in making good on those commitments."
Belarus: "Having eliminated, despite extreme economic and financial hardships, nearly 10% of all heavy military equipment...under the [Conventional Forces in Europe] Treaty, Belarus [has] made a significant contribution to the strengthening of regional and global trust and cooperation. Belarus was also the first OSCE member state to have ratified the CFE Adaptation Agreement in 2000. The consistency of our policies was also reaffirmed by the ratification by...Belarus of the Open Skies Treaty in 2001. ... Lacking the necessary financial and technological resources...Belarus at present is not ready to join the...[Ottawa] Convention...but has been considering a possibility of the joining...in future in the context of receiving international financial and technological assistance for de-mining and APL stockpile elimination activities."
Bulgaria: "The issue of eliminating the mine threat has always been a high priority for my country. In October 1998 Bulgaria proposed to the south eastern European states a political commitment not to use anti-personnel mines and not to deploy them in areas adjacent to their common borders. Bulgaria ratified the Amended Protocol II to the CCW on November 4, 1998, thus contributing to the timely entry into force of this important international instrument."
Burkina Faso (Michel Kafando, October 11): "Regrettably, the United Nations conference on the illicit small arms trade had run up against such basic problems as the sale of arms to groups not recognised by states. The control of anti-personnel landmines was also a critical issue. In many developing countries, mines were curbing agricultural development and many other social and economic activities." (UN Press Release GA/DIS/3202.)
Cambodia: "Lack of a framework of binding norms and global standards to curb [the] illicit trade and use of small arms and light weapons is of great concern which the world community must continue to address in the decades ahead. ... Although the [small arms] programme of action...did not meet its full expectation, nonetheless it provides guidelines for practical actions... As a country that has suffered a great deal from landmines, Cambodia attaches great important to this [issue]... Since the entry into force of the Ottawa Convention in 1999 we note with interest the progressive step[s] taken by the world community... In spite of some achievements, however, we believe that landmines continue to threaten many countries and people throughout the world... Hence continued assistance and increased financial support are needed to further tackle these humanitarian problems. ... We believe that universality of the [Ottawa] Convention would effectively contribute to the elimination of this type of cowardly weapon."
Cameroon: "[T]he July Conference on small arms had marked the end of a long process of consciousness-raising about the deadly effects of those weapons. It had also been the point of departure for a large-scale mobilisation of various international players to fight that scourge. Notwithstanding those tireless efforts, the Conference had not reached consensus on reducing individual ownership of small arms intended for the military, or landing in the hands of non-state actors."
Canada: "The tragedy of September 11 notwithstanding, small arms remain the weapons most commonly used by terrorists and other non-state perpetrators of mass violence. We need to curb the proliferation of small arms and reduce their numbers. We can start very well by implementing the programme of action agreed at the small arms Conference this summer. While more could have been accomplished, what we did achieve there was highly significant: the first global acceptance that small arms menace both international and human security and that governments are responsible for solutions. ... The success of the [Ottawa] Convention was underlined last month at the third meeting of states parties, held, fittingly, in Nicaragua, one of the most mine-affected states in the Americas. The job, though, is far from done. Canada calls on all states, including the three permanent members of the Security Council still not on board, to join this common effort. ... [W]hile the international community has done much to ameliorate the humanitarian impact of anti-personnel mines, our work to lessen the terror of war for civilian populations, peacekeepers and humanitarian workers should not stop there. We need to deal with other explosive remnants of war. At the conference late this year to review the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, we can find ways to prevent munitions from becoming unexploded ordnance in the first place, to clear infested terrain and to warn citizens of danger. Such essential progress is well within our grasp."
CARICOM: "We look forward now to early implementation of measures...articulated in the [small arms] programme of action... We share the view...that the outcome of this Conference represents a first, important step in the long journey toward the achievement of truly effective control of this illicit trade. That objective, we believe, will not be attained until we implement measures to regulate the legal trade in small arms and light weapons, including the improved monitoring of firearms dealers and secondary markets, the application of more rigorous standards for arms brokers, and strict import and export authorisation regimes."
Chile: "[T]he Ottawa Convention stands out as an example...of what it is possible to achieve in the field of international security and disarmament. The Convention shows that small and medium-sized states can achieve the critical mass needed to produce results that improve the lives of millions of human beings."
China: "Last July, the UN Conference on the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects was convened, marking a new stage of international effort in combating the illicit trade of small arms. China, always supportive of the international effort in this regard, participated constructively in the Conference. China will faithfully carry out the programme of action adopted at the Conference and work with others to press ahead with the relevant process. China welcomes the Firearms Protocol of the UN Convention against Transnational Organised Crimes adopted by the UN and is positively considering the question of signing the Protocol.
The Second Review Conference of the States Parties to the Convention of Certain Conventional Weapons will be held at the end of this year. China will actively participate in the relevant deliberations and, together with other delegations, try to find better ways and means to implement the obligations of the Convention and to resolve the humanitarian concerns caused by certain conventional weapons. It is our view that the most important task now is to concentrate our resources and attention to the enhancement of the universality and effectiveness of the Convention.
China always holds that the issue of landmines bears on both the humanitarian concerns and the sovereign state's legitimate need for self-defence. The two must be balanced and neither can be neglected. China understands the humanitarian concerns of the international community over civilian casualties caused by landmines and supports the international efforts in addressing this issue. China has taken an active part in the international assistance to mine clearance actions. This year, China has donated mine detection and clearance equipment to mine-stricken countries like Angola, Cambodia, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Namibia and Rwanda."
Colombia: "The [small arms] programme of action...constituted a field map which we must follow and identified the way forward... We must now work towards the full implementation of the measures...at the national, regional and global levels, the promotion of the international cooperation and assistance that states require to implement the measures, and towards ensuring adequate follow-up to the Conference."
Democratic Republic of the Congo: "With respect to the small arms conference, states should apply the principles of the recommendations... Reaching consensus on the outstanding issues through a rapid resumption of talks would be an extremely significant initiative."
Costa Rica: "Costa Rica had no weapons, no army, and their only security came from the United Nations' prohibition on the use of force... Costa Rica supported efforts to eliminate weapons with indiscriminate effects and supported demining programmes, as well as mine awareness education."
Cuba: "Of course, the traffic in small arms and light weapons...had to be controlled. Similarly, no one was against banning the indiscriminate use of anti-personnel landmines, but when would true measures be taken to prevent their use? ... ... [T]he inflexible position of one delegation had prevented the [small arms] action programme from including even a minimal reference to key questions, such as the unrestricted trade of small arms and light weapons and the need to provide them only to governments or authorised entities. Hopefully, the Committee could adopt a consensus text on that very important topic."
Czech Republic: "Although the approved [small arms] document does not completely fulfil our expectations, it contains a whole range of measures that need to be implemented as early as possible... It is my pleasure to inform this august forum that in June 2001 we completed the destruction of all stockpiled mines covered by the Ottawa Convention. ... The Czech Republic will...do its best to achieve a positive outcome to the Second [CCW] Review Conference... Especially we are ready to support proposals that enhance the applicability of the CCW to cover non-international armed conflict and to begin the process of considering how the CCW should deal with the issue of explosive remnants of war."
Ecuador (Mario Aleman, October 11) : "Implementation of the programme of action adopted at the United Nations Conference on small arms would certainly be decisive in enhancing national and international peace and security." (UN Press Release GA/DIS/3201.)
Egypt: "Egypt welcomes the success of the UN Conference [on small arms]... While understanding fully the wish of some affected states to see this question move beyond the regional level ...we cannot overlook the fact that international action in this regard is governed by [a] certain clearly agreed order of priorities... Egypt has suffered...from the problem of landmines for the last fifty years. ... [W]e deal with the problem of landmines from a practical and realistic, rather than an abstract, point of view. ... Egypt's position will remain unchanged despite our appreciation for the humanitarian objective of the [Ottawa] Convention. This is due to the severe shortcomings of the Convention, the fact that it does not take Egypt's concerns into account, and its failure to deal with all the aspects of the problem."
Eritrea: "The Eritrean delegation is...convinced of the urgent need to establish an internationally-sanctioned set of rules, standards and guidelines which can effectively regulate [the trade in small arms]... [Eritrea] is dismayed by the inconclusive results of the Conference on small arms and light weapons...and calls for the urgent convening of another conference in the near future. ... Although we had not acceded to the [Ottawa] Convention...until recently, we had scrupulously adhered to the humanitarian principles enshrined in its provisions... Unfortunately, Eritrean fields have once again been massively mined by an irresponsible and brutal government which is a signatory to the Convention... Once again it becomes evident that the signing of conventions alone will not eliminate landmines. ... The Convention will be a dead letter without sanctions to enforce respect for it and to punish first users, since their victims will have no alternative to using these weapons [themselves] when, as in the case of Eritrea, they are victimised by irresponsible governments."
European Union: "The European Union welcomes the adoption...of an Action plan [on small arms]... Although the European Union had hoped that the Conference would succeed in going further on certain aspects of the Action Plan, it particularly welcomes the follow-up process that has been put in place... The European Union underlines the importance of the UN Register of Conventional Arms... The EU reiterates its support for an expanded Register, for its scope to be extended as quickly as possible, and for its universalisation. ... The EU deplores any act contrary to the letter and the spirit of the [Ottawa] Convention and is deeply concerned by the allegations in the last report from the Landmine Monitor that certain states parties and non-state actors are continuing to use anti-personnel mines. ... The EU supports the idea of giving a mandate for the negotiation of a Protocol [to the CCW] on the 'explosive remnants of war'. ... We cannot turn a blind eye to the human and social cost of these remnants of war; furthermore, Protocol II as amended gives us a precedent which could be extended to the entire Convention, namely the applicability of these international standards to non-international armed conflicts. ... Since most conflicts nowadays are internal ones, the EU hopes that the Review Conference in December will be able to extend the scope of the entire CCW arrangement to cover non-international conflicts. The EU's aim is for the arrangements applicable to landmines other than anti-personnel mines to be stepped up."
Ethiopia (Abdulmejid Hussein, October 16): "Ethiopia commends the success at the UN [small arms] Conference... However, my delegation believes that it is of paramount importance for member states...to consolidate their efforts and mobilise their resources towards facilitating the full implementation of the programme of action. ... Ethiopia fully recognises the gravity of the problem of landmines and unexploded ordinances. ... We firmly believe that the landmine crisis is not an unbeatable challenge and hence we urge the international community to strengthen its endeavours to make anti-personnel landmines objects of the past."
Ghana: "While the Conference did not meet all our expectations and agree on the need to prevent sales of arms to non-state actors or stockpiling by civilians, Ghana considers the programme of action the beginning of a process whose implementation at all levels would ultimately help address outstanding matters."
Guatemala: "Though the United Nations Conference on...small arms was a step forward, it had failed to meet the expectations of all states involved, especially those nations that had suffered the destructive effects of those weapons first hand."
Holy See: "There are conflicts today in several regions that do not even receive world attention. With their ease-of-use and ready availability, small arms are the weapons of choice for today's combatants. The supply of almost limitless quantities of small arms and light weapons through areas of high tension has fuelled numerous civil wars and social chaos. Small arms kill upwards of 10,000 people per week. Most of these victims are civilians. ... The Conference on the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Lights Weapons in All Its Aspects has been attributed various degrees of success and failure. In terms of success, 189 countries were able to agree on a programme of action that urges governments to enact laws, regulations and administrative procedures to prevent the illicit trafficking in small arms and to make the illegal manufacture, possession, stockpiling and trade of these weapons a criminal offense. It was also decided that a review Conference is to be held no later than 2006 to examine progress in implementing the agreement, thereby ensuring that this would be the first step in what is expected to be a lengthy effort. The Conference has also been commended for placing a spotlight on the issue of mall arms and providing an important platform for civil society and concerned governments to press for serious action. However, the success of the Conference was limited from the beginning since it only set out to discuss the illegal aspects of the small arms trade. This focus has been criticised for ignoring the fact that most illicit weapons originate in the legal export market before being diverted. Moreover, the agreement that was reached is a non-binding voluntary declaration with no enforcement mechanism, thereby raising the question of how seriously it will be taken by its signatories. Unfortunately, the Conference's final document did not include provisions that would have regulated civilian gun ownership and restricted arms transfers to legitimate states."
ICRC: "The Second [CCW] Review Conference...provides a unique opportunity to extend the Convention's protection... By extending the scope of the application of the Convention to non-international armed conflicts, states parties will make clear that the rules of the Convention should be the minimum standards for all armed conflicts... Over the past two years, the ICRC has sought to document and raise awareness of the global humanitarian problem caused by explosive remnants of war. ... The ICRC therefore urges states parties to agree...on a mandate for a group of governmental experts to begin negotiations for a new protocol on explosive remnants of war, to be completed within a timeframe which reflects the urgency of the problem. ... The ICRC welcomes the steady increase in adherence to [the Ottawa Convention]...which now stands at 122 states parties. The Committee encourages all states which have not yet done so to adhere to this instrument which represents the only effective solution to the global epidemic of landmine injuries. ... The July United nations Conference...was an important step in drawing attention to the enormous human costs of the unregulated availability of small arms and light weapons. It is important that the Conference acknowledged that this trade 'undermines respect for humanitarian law, impedes the provision of humanitarian assistance to victims of armed conflict and fuels crime and terrorism' and that states undertook to put in place a wide range of national measures to combat this trade."
India: "The outcome of the [small arms] Conference fell far short of our expectations of dealing with the priority of breaking the nexus between small arms proliferation, international terrorism, drug smuggling, organised crime, money laundering, and the 'grey markets' that feed this link. Nevertheless, the modest programme of action...must be implemented expeditiously and fully as a first step in a multilateral process. ... The Second [CCW] Review Conference...promises not only to review the existing provisions on excessively injurious weapons but also presents the possibility of expanding the scope of the Convention to cover non-international armed conflicts. India has been active in the CCW process, having ratified all its Protocols, including the Amended Protocol II on landmines. ... The process of complete elimination of APLs will be facilitated by addressing the legitimate defence role of anti-personnel landmines for operation requirements under the defence doctrines of the countries concerned, through the availability of appropriate, militarily-effective, non-lethal, and cost effective alternative technologies."
Indonesia: "The [small arms] programme of action...is a substantive document... It sets out a realistic, achievable and comprehensive approach to addressing the relevant problems... And it succeeded in mobilising the political will of the international community and in establishing a follow-up and review mechanism. Implementation of its recommendations will make a constructive contribution to national and regional security."
Iran: "[W]e should be delighted that the [small arms] Conference was successful in producing a plan of action which provides the best possible effective measures...to prevent and combat the illicit trade... In the meantime, I would like to join a great number of states in expressing concern over the failure of the Conference to elaborate its position with regard to the regulation of domestic circulation of small arms...as well as the very crucial issue of such transfers to non-state actors, due to the position of one state."
Iraq: "At the small arms conference, the United States had rejected to the reference in the programme of action that would limit the trade of small arms and light weapons to states. That position had opened the door to the transfer of those weapons to non-state actors, such as secessionist and rebel movements. ... The use of depleted uranium shells against Iraq had greatly increased the incidences of cancer, miscarriages and deformed births, particularly in the southern provinces where those weapons had been used. The use of those weapons had led to the death of more than 50,000 children in the first year, in 1991, and even hit thousands of British and American soldiers, in what had been called 'the Gulf syndrome'. In view of the danger of that weapon, negotiations should start in the Conference on Disarmament on a treaty to ban its development, production, stockpiling, and use."
Japan: "The UN [small arms] Conference...adopted a very significant programme of action. Japan will actively contribute to its implementation. ... The [CCW] Review Conference...is expected to achieve significant results on such issues as the extension of the scope of application of the Convention and its protocols to internal conflicts, explosive remnants if war, and anti-vehicle mines. ... Japan will continue to urge those states which have not acceded to the Ottawa Convention to do so..."
Jordan: "Faced with the global scourge of small arms, the international community has now begun an important process of constructive global action. ... A programme of action is a beginning, not an end in itself. Implementation will be the true test. ... Jordan has been a staunch supporter of the UN Conventional Arms Register. ... However, we believe that the Register may not be effective unless its scope is enlarged to include military holdings and procurement through national production as well as weapons of mass destruction. We therefore regret the fact that the Panel of Governmental Experts failed to deal with this problem. ... Jordan has ratified the Ottawa Convention... Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan, in her capacity as patron of the Landmine Survivors' Network, is leading and contributing to the worldwide campaign to rid the world of APLs."
Kazakhstan: "[W]hile the [small arms] programme of action...did not fully meet the expectations of all countries we reiterate our readiness to undertake all bilateral, regional and international cooperation efforts to ensure its implementation."
Kenya: "[At the small arms Conference,] the African Group painfully agreed to the deletion [from the programme of action] of aspects dealing with private possession of weapons and the supply of arms to non-state actors, yielding to the opposition of a single state. It is hoped that the events of September 11 will tilt the balance towards the serious consideration and incorporation of these vital and crucial aspects in the programme of action in the future."
South Korea: "[T]he adoption of the [small arms] programme of action...was a veritable success. ... It must be stressed, however, that the programme of action is to be regarded as the start of a long term process with practical follow-up."
Laos: "[W]e regret that the [small arms] programme of action still lacks some important elements. In this regard, we hope that the follow-up measures will improve the gain of the Conference... We share the concern of the international community caused by the indiscriminate use of anti-personnel landmines. In this respect, while noting the Ottawa Convention, our view remains that states have the legitimate right to use such weapons for the defence of their national independence and territorial integrity as provided for in the Charter of the UN."
Libya: "[T]he United Nations Register of Conventional Arms was an important measure by which to consolidate trust. It should be broadened to ensure transparency and it should contain information about weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear weapons. ... The small arms Conference had produced an important document, but regrettably, it had not succeeded in reflecting the determination of the international community to resolve the problem completely. For example, agreement had not been reached on certain issues, among them the registration of the possession of small arms and the ban of sales of such arms to small groups."
Lithuania: "While recognising that the small arms problem is not amenable to a quick-fix solution, it is now important as quickly as possible to follow through the agreed measures in the programme of action and continue to build upon them in the follow-up process. Of no less importance is the elimination of glaring loopholes, such as unregulated brokering, financing, and transportation of small arms. It is equally necessary to increase transparency, bolster the arms embargoes, and develop an international code of conduct on arms transfers. ... The Ottawa Convention is a tremendous success in the making, both in eliminating worldwide stockpiles and being a powerful vehicle for demining, rehabilitation and mine awareness programmes. ... We also attach particular importance to the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons. Extension of the applicability of the whole Convention to non-international armed conflicts is a very pertinent and well-timed proposal given the shifting nature of conflicts. We also support addressing the issue of explosive remnants of war in the context of strengthening the Convention."
Republic of Macedonia: "The Republic of Macedonia welcomes the [small arms] programme of action...as a good starting point to build upon... As a state party to the Convention, we remain strongly committed to the Ottawa process. The strengthening of the process...should be measured not only by the increase in the number of signatories...but more by the faithful abandonment of these callous devices in practice by state and non-state actors."
Madagascar (Radafiarisoa Léa Raholinirina, October 12): "Despite deficiencies in its programme of action, recommendations from the Conference on small arms must be implemented as soon as possible to halt the devastating effects of those weapons. Africa looked forward to the speedy implementation of the programme, especially in the area of technical assistance. The continent had also known the agony of anti-personnel mines. ..." (UN Press Release GA/DIS/3203.)
Mali: "Mali had played a pioneer role in the area of micro-disarmament, and would continue to promote such progress. His country had initiated a project of recovering light weapons, which, in turn, financed collective economic activities for the benefit of those persons who had surrendered them. Mali had called for the free and voluntary disarmament of more than 400 light weapons and thousands of munitions, which had made a positive impact on consolidating post-conflict peace. ... [Mali] noted the recent renewal for three years by the heads of State of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) of a moratorium on the import, export, and production of light weapons. That measure had highlighted the Community's determination to contribute effectively to international security, and that should also be applied to all subregions. ... [Mali] would introduce a draft resolution in the Committee on assistance to states to halt the illicit circulation of light weapons and collect them. ..."
Malta (Julian Vassallo, October 9): "Malta attended the recent Third meeting of States parties to the Ottawa Convention for the first time as a ratifying state. It was greatly heartened to witness the sterling work of those delegations and members of civil society that have, in a few short years, transformed the anti-landmines movement into a workable Convention whose provisions are respected not only by the ever-increasing number of states parties but also by non states parties whose actions are coloured by the moral strength of the Convention."
Malaysia: "[The small arms] Conference marked a significant step... Malaysia believes that the issue of the proliferation of small arms and light weapons must be viewed from a holistic perspective of arms control and disarmament, conflict prevention and socio-economic development. ... My delegation is proud to announce that Malaysia became the first mine-free country in Asia in January this year, as we have completed our stockpile destruction of anti-personnel landmines and therefore...fulfilled our obligations under Article 4 of the Ottawa Convention."
Mexico: "We hope that discussions will continue between member states on those issues that could not be included in the [small arms] programme of action. We are convinced that to the extent that a consensus is reached on the need to approach the questions of the prohibition on the transfer of arms to non-state actors and legislation on restrictions on the possession by civilians of small arms and light weapons, we will succeed in making a significant impact on the illicit trade in these weapons. .... [I]n the Second [CCW] Review Conference... we will support...amending the Convention in order to expand its scope of application and the adoption of new protocols to prohibit the production, storage, use and transfer of conventional weapons which by their nature or design cause devastating humanitarian harm, such as anti-vehicle mines and explosive remnants of war. ... Mexico appeals to the major producers of anti-personnel mines to accede to the [Ottawa] Convention and to the states parties to conclude their programmes on the destruction of mines within the established timeframe and to respect the minimum thresholds for these weapons."
Moldova: "[T]he adoption [of the small arms] plan of action...was a welcome development. We believe that the full implementation of all measures contained therein will certainly facilitate ongoing efforts to achieve peaceful settlement of many conflicts around the world, including in the Transdnestrian region of the Republic of Moldova... We welcomed wholeheartedly the successful adaptation in 1999 of the [CFE] Treaty... As a result, tens of thousands of pieces of treaty-limited equipment [TLE] have been destroyed in our region... I would like to emphasise that my government is encouraged by the recent efforts by the Russian Federation to reduce its CFE TLE located in the Transdnestrian region... Given the considerable progress that has been made, we certainly hope that the process of destruction or removal will be completed before the Bucharest OSCE Ministerial Meeting this December. I would also like to express...our gratitude to those members of the OSCE which are contributing financially to an OSCE Voluntary Fund established in accordance with the [1999] Istanbul decisions to assist the process of weapon destruction or withdrawal."
Mongolia: "Mongolia attaches great importance to the outcome of the first ever UN Conference [on small arms]... [M]y delegation, like many others, regrets the failure of the Conference to reach agreement on controlling private ownership of small arms designed for military purposes, as well as their transfer to non-state actors, including to possible terrorists. Nevertheless, my delegation believes that the follow-up measures that have been reflected in the programme of action would strengthen the gains of the Conference."
Mozambique: "We are pleased with the adoption by consensus [of the small arms]...programme of action... This document provides the much-needed international framework for comprehensive action... Through its realistic, integrated and action-oriented approach, the programme of action is undoubtedly the best option at this point for concerted efforts towards curbing the destabilising accumulation and east availability of small arms and light weapons. ... Landmines continue to be a matter of concern to my country and they kill, maim and threaten the lives of innocent people in many countries of the world, including in [Mozambique]... The Third Meeting of the States Parties to the Ottawa Convention recently held in Managua reaffirmed the states parties' unwavering commitment both to the total eradication of anti-personnel landmines and addressing the insidious and inhumane effects of these weapons."
Myanmar (Burma), U Kyaw Tint Swe, October 15: "We now have a [small arms] programme of action... Although the outcome is not totally satisfactory to us all it is a good beginning. We must make good use of the forthcoming Review Conference to take more effective measures to address the two core issues: strict control of private ownership and prevention of transfer of small arms to non-state actors."
Nepal: "Nepal would have liked to see [a] prohibition on the sale of small arms to non-state actors and restriction on the possession of concealable arms by civilians included in the programme of action... Yet we take solace in the fact that the Conference has agreed to take measures to prevent, combat and eradicate [the] illicit trade...and [we] hope that controlling small arms is a work in progress."
New Zealand: "The [small arms] programme of action is no modest achievement. Unfortunately, there was no agreement to include measures dealing with some aspects of the legal trade of these ubiquitous killers where they impinge on illicit transfers. Prohibiting or restricting supply to non-state actors was also excluded. But it was an important outcome nevertheless. ... At least fifty countries have not yet joined the Mine Ban Convention. The treaty still has to test its procedures for fact-finding and clarification in cases of possible non-compliance. ... The 'can do' dynamic among the Convention's partners, however, is a pertinent reminder to the international community and to pessimists everywhere that leadership in disarmament can be a potent and positive force. ... Before [the CCW Review Conference]...are proposals to extend the scope of the treaty and its protocols to internal conflicts. New Zealand is strongly behind them. The international community must also address the problem of explosive remnants of war. ... Industry-driven improvements to munition or fusing design will never be enough. Our strong preference is for a legally-binding instrument on explosive remnants of war, if necessary after an expert process to explore appropriate modalities. And we would want this to be ready for signature before the next CCW Review Conference in 2006."
Nicaragua: "[Nicaragua] heralded the action plan of the small arms conference... Nevertheless, future progress must be made, especially regarding outstanding objectives, such as the control and sale of those arms to non-state entities. ... [Nicaragua wished to highlight] the demining work being done [on its territory]...especially the great progress made recently because of the promotion of a programme carried out with the support of the Organisation of American States (OAS) and other friendly governments. During the civil war, more than 135,000 mines had been sown. Now, some 50% had been destroyed."
Nigeria: "We...support the call for the creation of [a] Small Arms Fund to assist states in the implementation of the programme of action. ... We remain convinced of the need to prohibit the sale and transfer of small arms and light weapons to...non-state actors."
Oman (Taher Muquabil, October 17): "The United Nations Conference on small arms had made a contribution to international peace and security when it shed light on the destruction wrought by those weapons. The Conference had also made obvious the need to balance controlling the flow of those weapons with the legitimate right to self-defence." (United Nations Press Release GA/DIS/3206)
Pakistan: "The [small arms] programme of action...may not be perfect but it is a significant step forward. ... We have recently launched a massive campaign to collect illicit weapons, [have] stopped issuing licenses for new weapons and [have] imposed a ban on the display of weapons. Pakistan is examining the five proposals presently under consideration under the [CCW]...In doing this, we shall need to maintain a balance between humanitarianism and the legitimate security requirements of the High Contracting Parties. Pakistan attaches great importance to eliminating the irresponsible use of anti-personnel landmines and halting the annual toll of thousands of innocent victims. ... We believe that [the CCW] Amended Protocol II is an important instrument which, with universal adherence, could address most of the problems posed by landmines."
Paraguay (Eladio Loizaga, October 11): "The illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons was a great worry [to Paraguay]... In that respect, a draft bill against the spread of firearms had been presented in Paraguay's National Congress. Paraguay was not a producer of arms and had gradually reduced its imports of firearms to zero." (UN Press Release GA/DIS/3202.)
Peru (Oswaldo de Rivero, October 8): "With this [small arms] action plan we finally have an exceptional opportunity to effectively fight the daily violence and terrorism that no borders and violates the basic rights of the individual. ... Our country has been fully committed to the objectives of the Ottawa Convention... I have the pleasure of announcing that on September 13, Peru concluded the destruction of the 321,368 anti-personnel mines that formed the Peruvian arsenal... In his speech to the Congress of the Republic on the day...he assumed the presidency of Peru, President Alejandro Toledo proposed the limitation of military expenditures in South America [in order] to use these resources in the struggle against poverty. ... The sub-region has the highest rates of social inequality in the world. ... How then can democratic governments continue to spend [so much] on weapons in these circumstances? ... Our intention is...to persist in the proposal for the limitation of weapons in South America... As a starting point, we have undertaken an exercise of weapons equivalence and transparency with Chile. We hope that this process will be extended to the other South American countries."
Rio Group: "We share the view that it is urgently necessary to achieve the universalisation of the Ottawa Convention... We support the results of the Third Conference of States Parties, which was held in Managua, Nicaragua last September... We wish to take this opportunity to highlight the commitment that we have undertaken to convert our region into a zone free of this type of weapon. In addition, we wish to express our firm intention to prevent, combat and eliminate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons... We therefore support the programme of action adopted at the United Nations Conference held last July, which complements the progress achieved in our region in this area. The countries members of the Rio Group are determined to ensure the [productive] follow-up to the Conference. To this end, we have organised a seminar to be held in Santiago, Chile, in November of this year. ..."
Russia: "We are convinced that without resolving the problems of preventing and restricting the illicit proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the world it is impossible to settle conflicts, ensure security of people or maintain stable economic growth. The UN Conference on the Illicit Trade in Small Arms held in July this year identified major areas for action by the international community in this field. The most important thing now is to get down an active and concrete follow-up work. We would like to note the significance of the 1980 'Inhumane Weapons' Convention as an important international legal document regulating the use of concrete types of conventional arms. We are ready to support and facilitate in every way the implementation of all proposals put forward in the course of its review process with a view to further strengthening and ensuring the universal character of the Convention and its protocols. In our opinion, the CCW Second Review Conference to be held in December this year should become another milestone on the way towards achieving these objectives."
South Africa: "South Africa is pleased that Africa's leadership role ensured that the [small arms] Conference successfully adopted a realistic and implementable programme of action. ... The Conference could...not agree on the need to establish and maintain controls over private ownership of small arms and the need for preventing sales of small arms and light weapons to non-state actors. These issues remain of great concern to South Africa... The Mine Ban Convention continues to set new standards in disarmament... [T]he international norm established by the Convention is having a global impact as trade has almost disappeared and production [has] declined dramatically. ...South Africa acknowledges the humanitarian concerns related to the use of mines other than anti-personnel mines and would like to see a process being launched by the [CCW] Review Conference to consider a comprehensive instrument on such mines that would include issues related to detectability, self-destruction and sensitive fusing mechanisms. In addition, we support a process to urgently consider and develop an additional protocol to deal with explosive remnants of war."
Sri Lanka: "[We] welcome the consensus programme of action [on small arms] that was adopted. However, it is our view that this modest achievement should not be considered as an end in itself. ... In particular, brokering, tracing and modes of conveyance should not be treated merely as law and order issues. ... Moreover, in our view, [the] question of supply of ammunition and explosives is an important related issue and should not be put on the back burner. ... In fact, if we are unable to monitor and control the production and transfer of sophisticated explosives, a utility vehicle of conveyance such as a ship or air plane could easily be converted into a weapon of mass destruction with [a] sufficient amount of explosives packed into it."
Sudan: "Sudan welcomed the programme of action adopted at the United Nations small arms conference and its measures at national, regional, and international levels. It was regrettable that there was no provision forbidding the transfer of small arms to terrorist groups, or non-state actors. That flaw might open a gap for those weapons to pour into Africa, thereby destabilizing the continent."
Switzerland: "We welcome the [small arms] action plan [as]...the beginning of a process. My country endeavoured to substantially contribute ton this Conference; together with France...it launched an initiative on the question of the tracing, marking and record-keeping of small arms and light weapons. The action plan recognised the importance of this question and recommended undertaking a study in order to evaluate the possibility of working out an international instrument on the matter. This important step encourages us to continue our initiative."
Syria: "With respect to the small arms conference...[Syria] especially welcomed the paragraphs dealing with the right to self-defence and self-determination, as well as the right to resist force and occupation."
Tanzania: "[T]he adoption of a programme of action...is welcome. We believe that this is a big step on the long road towards a world free of the scourge of small arms. Despite these positive developments, my delegation wishes to emphasise the importance and urgency of prohibiting the supply of such weapons to non-state actors. ... [T]he achievements recorded since the entry into force of the Ottawa Convention are a clear testimony that words can be matched with deeds."
Thailand: "Although the results of the [small arms] Conference did not meet the expectations of all concerned, we nevertheless believe that the resulting programme of action (PoA) provides a good platform for an evolving process of enhanced international cooperation... We hope that the international community will be actively involved in the follow-up to the Conference, and particularly in providing assistance to states with limited resources in implementing the PoA. ... Thailand welcomes the results of the Third Meeting of States Parties to the [Ottawa Convention]... The establishment of an Implementation Support Unit, one of the key concrete achievements of the Meeting, will help facilitate the implementation of the Convention."
Turkey: "The Treaty on Conventional Forces in Europe (CFE) was of the utmost importance to the European security architecture... The impact of the CFE Treaty's entry into force had been remarkable and its full implementation was of vital importance, because it contained a number of confidence-building measures. Another measure that would add to the security of the region was the programme of action that had been adopted at the recent United Nations Conference on small arms. Stopping the illicit flow of such weapons to terrorists, criminals and drug traffickers were among Turkey's highest security priorities. Transparency in all transfers of conventional arms, such as the inclusion of small arms and light weapons in the United Nations Register of Conventional Arms, should be encouraged. ... Turkey had shown its support for the principles of the Ottawa Convention, though its security situation was very different from many of the states that advocated the Convention. Turkey had initiated contacts with neighbouring countries to keep their borders free of mines and wished to reiterate its intention to become party to the Ottawa Convention. Turkey and Greece would concurrently start procedures that would make both states party to the Convention."
Ukraine: "We believe that the process of implementation of the [small arms] programme of action will require common efforts of all member states and their civil societies as well as of international and regional organisations. In this regard we need to draw priority attention to enhancement of the effectiveness of UN Security Council arms embargoes and establishment of effectively functioning national export control systems..."
© 2001 The Acronym Institute.