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Joseph
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Saturday, September 29, 2012
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Friday, September 28, 2012
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AT UN, SAUDI ARABIA CALLS FOR DEEPENING OF DIALOGUE AMONG RELIGIONS TO PREVENT CONFLICTS
AT UN, SAUDI ARABIA CALLS FOR DEEPENING OF DIALOGUE AMONG RELIGIONS TO PREVENT CONFLICTS
New York, Sep 28 2012 10:10PM
United Nations Member States must spread a culture of tolerance and understanding and deepen the dialogue among cultures and religions to prevent conflicts, the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia, Prince Addulaziz bin Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz, said in his statement to the world body's General Assembly today.
"In order to maintain this noble humanitarian requirement promoted by all religions, we must disseminate and deepen the dialogue with a view to achieve peace between human beings, to avoid conflicts, to put an end to acts of aggression and arrogance, to respect religious, cultural, and civilizational particularity of peoples, and to encourage pursuit of positive interaction between civilizations, cultures, and religions," Mr. Bin Abdulaziz <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/SA_en.pdf">told the gathered delegates at the 67th Assembly's General Debate at UN Headquarters in New York.
Saudi Arabia strongly condemns the act of "an irresponsible group who produced an offensive movie about the Prophet Muhammad," he said – referring to an anti-Islam video produced in the US and which has led to a violent reaction in various cities across the world - and noted that in this context, his country renews its calls to enact laws and regulation that forbid the defamation of religious symbols.
Mr. Bin Abdulaziz stressed that Saudi Arabia also condemns the acts of violence that followed the release of the film against United States foreign missions, and underlined that diplomats around the world must be protected. The US Ambassador to Libya, Christopher Stevens, along with others, was recently killed in the eastern Libya city of Benghazi in violence believed to be linked to the anti-Islam video.
"Diplomatic envoys are protected by inviolability and immunity that is urged by our noble religion first and international treaties as well, due to the importance of diplomacy in preserving international interests," the Vice Minister said.
He also urged the international community to act on the Syrian crisis which has reached "exacerbated and complicated limits," and reiterated that Saudi Arabia stands ready to work through legitimate international frameworks in accordance to humanitarian law.
However, he noted with regret that the Security Council has not been able to reach agreement on united action to put a stop to the violence in the Middle Eastern country, in which more than 18,000 people have been killed since an anti-government uprising erupted 18 months ago.
"We regret that this regime continues to believe that it can proceed with its suppressive procedures to control the situation without any due regard to the high humanitarian losses," he said. "The Security Council, which is entrusted with the responsibility of keeping peace and security, has failed so far to take a decision about the Syrian crisis and to stop the bloodshed therein."
"This matter gave the Syrian regime a green light to proceed with its crimes against the Syrian people, in a race against time, to accomplish its objectives using the most advanced means of killing and destruction," the Vice Minister added.
A new strategy that aims to achieve a peaceful transition to power and that surpasses the previous plan put forward by the former Joint envoy of the UN and the League of Arab States on the Syrian crisis, Kofi Annan, is vital, the Saudi official said, adding that the current UN-Arab League Representative, Lakhdar Brahimi, will not be able to move forward unless the Security Council provides him with the support he needs to deal with the crisis at a political and humanitarian level.
Regarding the Middle East peace process, Mr. Bin Abdulaziz told the General Assembly that his country believes the way this protracted conflict can be solved is by responding to the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, particularly their right to establish an independent State.
"The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which grants the Palestinian issue top priority, urges the international community represented by the United Nations to swiftly put an end to the tragedy of the Palestinian people and to provide its National Authority with all forms of support and assistance," he said, adding that Saudi Arabia "is sparing no effort to meet all its obligations towards the peace process and towards our Palestinian brothers by the provision of various types of support and assistance."
The Saudi official is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 28 2012 10:10PM
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New York, Sep 28 2012 10:10PM
United Nations Member States must spread a culture of tolerance and understanding and deepen the dialogue among cultures and religions to prevent conflicts, the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia, Prince Addulaziz bin Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz, said in his statement to the world body's General Assembly today.
"In order to maintain this noble humanitarian requirement promoted by all religions, we must disseminate and deepen the dialogue with a view to achieve peace between human beings, to avoid conflicts, to put an end to acts of aggression and arrogance, to respect religious, cultural, and civilizational particularity of peoples, and to encourage pursuit of positive interaction between civilizations, cultures, and religions," Mr. Bin Abdulaziz <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/SA_en.pdf">told the gathered delegates at the 67th Assembly's General Debate at UN Headquarters in New York.
Saudi Arabia strongly condemns the act of "an irresponsible group who produced an offensive movie about the Prophet Muhammad," he said – referring to an anti-Islam video produced in the US and which has led to a violent reaction in various cities across the world - and noted that in this context, his country renews its calls to enact laws and regulation that forbid the defamation of religious symbols.
Mr. Bin Abdulaziz stressed that Saudi Arabia also condemns the acts of violence that followed the release of the film against United States foreign missions, and underlined that diplomats around the world must be protected. The US Ambassador to Libya, Christopher Stevens, along with others, was recently killed in the eastern Libya city of Benghazi in violence believed to be linked to the anti-Islam video.
"Diplomatic envoys are protected by inviolability and immunity that is urged by our noble religion first and international treaties as well, due to the importance of diplomacy in preserving international interests," the Vice Minister said.
He also urged the international community to act on the Syrian crisis which has reached "exacerbated and complicated limits," and reiterated that Saudi Arabia stands ready to work through legitimate international frameworks in accordance to humanitarian law.
However, he noted with regret that the Security Council has not been able to reach agreement on united action to put a stop to the violence in the Middle Eastern country, in which more than 18,000 people have been killed since an anti-government uprising erupted 18 months ago.
"We regret that this regime continues to believe that it can proceed with its suppressive procedures to control the situation without any due regard to the high humanitarian losses," he said. "The Security Council, which is entrusted with the responsibility of keeping peace and security, has failed so far to take a decision about the Syrian crisis and to stop the bloodshed therein."
"This matter gave the Syrian regime a green light to proceed with its crimes against the Syrian people, in a race against time, to accomplish its objectives using the most advanced means of killing and destruction," the Vice Minister added.
A new strategy that aims to achieve a peaceful transition to power and that surpasses the previous plan put forward by the former Joint envoy of the UN and the League of Arab States on the Syrian crisis, Kofi Annan, is vital, the Saudi official said, adding that the current UN-Arab League Representative, Lakhdar Brahimi, will not be able to move forward unless the Security Council provides him with the support he needs to deal with the crisis at a political and humanitarian level.
Regarding the Middle East peace process, Mr. Bin Abdulaziz told the General Assembly that his country believes the way this protracted conflict can be solved is by responding to the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, particularly their right to establish an independent State.
"The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which grants the Palestinian issue top priority, urges the international community represented by the United Nations to swiftly put an end to the tragedy of the Palestinian people and to provide its National Authority with all forms of support and assistance," he said, adding that Saudi Arabia "is sparing no effort to meet all its obligations towards the peace process and towards our Palestinian brothers by the provision of various types of support and assistance."
The Saudi official is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 28 2012 10:10PM
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HUMAN RIGHTS AND FAILURE TO UNITE OVER SYRIA ADDRESSED BY EUROPEAN MINISTERS AT UN DEBATE
HUMAN RIGHTS AND FAILURE TO UNITE OVER SYRIA ADDRESSED BY EUROPEAN MINISTERS AT UN DEBATE
New York, Sep 28 2012 9:10PM
Croatia's Prime Minister, Austria's Vice-Chancellor and Sweden's Foreign Affairs Minister lamented the lack of unity in the United Nations Security Council over the conflict in Syria as they addressed the UN General Assembly today, while Ireland's Deputy Prime Minister joined those speakers in speaking out on the need for strong human rights protections.
Differences between the Council's members over what steps to take amid Syria's unfolding violence formed the backdrop to the speakers' remarks at the 67th Assembly's General Debate.
"The lack of univocal action against the most severe violations of the UN Charter is deeply troubling," <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/HR_en.pdf">said the Prime Minister of Croatia, Zoran Milanovic. "We must resolutely counter this obsession with violence and repression. We should not shy away from our responsibilities."
Austria's Vice-Chancellor and Federal Minister for European and International Affairs, Michael Spindelegger, described the victims of Syria's violence, and its 2.5 million people who are in need of humanitarian assistance, as being a "stark reminder" for the United Nations to act.
"The Security Council in particular must assume its responsibility for the ever aggravating situation in the country," he <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/AT_en.pdf">said.
For the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sweden, Carl Bildt, the Syrian conflict reminded the world of a simple truth: "Violence is easy to start, but difficult to stop." He said the "divided" Security Council needed to put "global responsibilities above narrow national interests."
Ireland's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamon Gilmore, spoke extensively on the issue of human rights, while his colleagues from Croatia, Austria and Sweden also addressed that subject.
"Ireland's commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights has been shaped by our history," he <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/IE_en_0.pdf">said. "As a small island nation, which has experienced the impact of colonialism, civil war and conflict, we learned the hard way that human rights can never be taken for granted."
Ireland is seeking election for the first time to the UN Human Rights Council, in accordance with the country's pledge to do so this year at the Council's 2006 launch.
"We want to see a principled Council that provides real leadership," said Deputy Prime Minister Gilmore. "We also value and support the full participation of small states in the work of the Council."
Croatia's Prime Minister Milanovic spoke of the promotion of human rights internationally as being "one of the cornerstones of the UN role in the world."
Noting Austria became an elected member of the UN Human Rights Council in 2011, Vice-Chancellor Spindelegger said the body was best placed to react swiftly in case of human rights emergencies. "Its special sessions on Syria and Libya illustrated that the international community will not turn a blind eye on gross human rights violations and indiscriminate attacks against the civilian population," he said.
Foreign Affairs Minister Bildt, who highlighted that Sweden was the largest financial contributor to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), spoke of his country's upcoming candidacy for membership of the Human Rights Council – and pledged it would take every opportunity to champion online freedom of expression.
"The fight for freedom on the Net is the new frontline in the fight for freedom in the world," he <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/SE_en.pdf">said.
Though Foreign Affairs Minister Bildt did not make direct reference to the presence on the Internet and elsewhere of the anti-Islam video made in the United States which led to violent reactions in various cities around the world, both Prime Minister Milanovic and Vice-Chancellor Spindelegger addressed the violence that erupted around the production.
The two spoke specifically of the killing of the US Ambassador to Libya, Christopher Stevens, in the eastern Libya city of Benghazi in violence believed to be linked to the anti-Islam video.
"People come from different cultures, legal traditions, historical backgrounds and forms of government," said Croatia's Prime Minister Milanovic. "But violence can never be an acceptable response to the freedom of speech."
Vice-Chancellor Spindelegger expressed Austria's "strongest" condemnation of all the attacks that occurred against diplomatic missions and personnel. "To attack an embassy and its personnel is not only contrary to international law, but an attack on the very idea the United Nations stands for, namely, the peaceful cooperation of member states to jointly build a better future," he said.
All four speakers addressed an array of additional topics. Topics covered in their remarks included justice and the rule-of-law by Croatia's Prime Minister Milanovic; Vice-Chancellor Spindelegger's expression of Austria's concern about weapons of mass destruction; and development issues addressed by both Foreign Affairs Minister Bildt of Sweden and Deputy Prime Minister Gilmore of Ireland.
The four European government officials are among of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual, national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends Oct. 1.
Sep 28 2012 9:10PM
________________
For more details go to UN News Centre at http://www.un.org/news
Follow us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/UN.News.Centre) and Twitter (http://twitter.com/UN_News_Centre)
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New York, Sep 28 2012 9:10PM
Croatia's Prime Minister, Austria's Vice-Chancellor and Sweden's Foreign Affairs Minister lamented the lack of unity in the United Nations Security Council over the conflict in Syria as they addressed the UN General Assembly today, while Ireland's Deputy Prime Minister joined those speakers in speaking out on the need for strong human rights protections.
Differences between the Council's members over what steps to take amid Syria's unfolding violence formed the backdrop to the speakers' remarks at the 67th Assembly's General Debate.
"The lack of univocal action against the most severe violations of the UN Charter is deeply troubling," <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/HR_en.pdf">said the Prime Minister of Croatia, Zoran Milanovic. "We must resolutely counter this obsession with violence and repression. We should not shy away from our responsibilities."
Austria's Vice-Chancellor and Federal Minister for European and International Affairs, Michael Spindelegger, described the victims of Syria's violence, and its 2.5 million people who are in need of humanitarian assistance, as being a "stark reminder" for the United Nations to act.
"The Security Council in particular must assume its responsibility for the ever aggravating situation in the country," he <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/AT_en.pdf">said.
For the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sweden, Carl Bildt, the Syrian conflict reminded the world of a simple truth: "Violence is easy to start, but difficult to stop." He said the "divided" Security Council needed to put "global responsibilities above narrow national interests."
Ireland's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamon Gilmore, spoke extensively on the issue of human rights, while his colleagues from Croatia, Austria and Sweden also addressed that subject.
"Ireland's commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights has been shaped by our history," he <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/IE_en_0.pdf">said. "As a small island nation, which has experienced the impact of colonialism, civil war and conflict, we learned the hard way that human rights can never be taken for granted."
Ireland is seeking election for the first time to the UN Human Rights Council, in accordance with the country's pledge to do so this year at the Council's 2006 launch.
"We want to see a principled Council that provides real leadership," said Deputy Prime Minister Gilmore. "We also value and support the full participation of small states in the work of the Council."
Croatia's Prime Minister Milanovic spoke of the promotion of human rights internationally as being "one of the cornerstones of the UN role in the world."
Noting Austria became an elected member of the UN Human Rights Council in 2011, Vice-Chancellor Spindelegger said the body was best placed to react swiftly in case of human rights emergencies. "Its special sessions on Syria and Libya illustrated that the international community will not turn a blind eye on gross human rights violations and indiscriminate attacks against the civilian population," he said.
Foreign Affairs Minister Bildt, who highlighted that Sweden was the largest financial contributor to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), spoke of his country's upcoming candidacy for membership of the Human Rights Council – and pledged it would take every opportunity to champion online freedom of expression.
"The fight for freedom on the Net is the new frontline in the fight for freedom in the world," he <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/SE_en.pdf">said.
Though Foreign Affairs Minister Bildt did not make direct reference to the presence on the Internet and elsewhere of the anti-Islam video made in the United States which led to violent reactions in various cities around the world, both Prime Minister Milanovic and Vice-Chancellor Spindelegger addressed the violence that erupted around the production.
The two spoke specifically of the killing of the US Ambassador to Libya, Christopher Stevens, in the eastern Libya city of Benghazi in violence believed to be linked to the anti-Islam video.
"People come from different cultures, legal traditions, historical backgrounds and forms of government," said Croatia's Prime Minister Milanovic. "But violence can never be an acceptable response to the freedom of speech."
Vice-Chancellor Spindelegger expressed Austria's "strongest" condemnation of all the attacks that occurred against diplomatic missions and personnel. "To attack an embassy and its personnel is not only contrary to international law, but an attack on the very idea the United Nations stands for, namely, the peaceful cooperation of member states to jointly build a better future," he said.
All four speakers addressed an array of additional topics. Topics covered in their remarks included justice and the rule-of-law by Croatia's Prime Minister Milanovic; Vice-Chancellor Spindelegger's expression of Austria's concern about weapons of mass destruction; and development issues addressed by both Foreign Affairs Minister Bildt of Sweden and Deputy Prime Minister Gilmore of Ireland.
The four European government officials are among of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual, national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends Oct. 1.
Sep 28 2012 9:10PM
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Thursday, September 27, 2012
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Theme: The Economic Challenges of Sustainability
Dear colleagues,
The following invitation letter was sent to you since July 4, 2012, we haven't heard your response since then. Please, let us know as soon as possible if you will attend the upcoming conference(s) at New York City USA and Accra-Ghana. The Conference Organizing Committee
============================== CONFERENCE OVERVIEW ===============================
Conference Theme: The Economic Challenges of Sustainability
A range of challenges from volatile oil and food prices, financial, economic and debt crises to climate change are threatening global efforts to achieve development that is sustainable, or that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. These multi-dimensional challenges do not have purely economic solutions, nor purely social or environmental ones. They require integrated solutions that combine economic, social and environmental elements.
The International Sustainable Development Network by far the best analysis of how the financial, economic and debt crisis will affect humanitarian and development funding and how to develop a counter-cyclical strategy building. The conference programme is dedicated to the current situation and offers an open international forum for the discussion of this topic. The aim is to establish new design perspectives and actions through dialogue with representatives from civil society, politics, economics, and science, individuals amongst others.
Conferences dates and Locations:
• 12th – 16th November, 2012 in New York City, USA
• 19th – 23rd November, 2012 in Accra-Ghana
We expect participants from: Governments and international organizations, Civil society, The business public and private sectors, Academics institutions and leaders and private Individuals amongst others.
Registration: Please email the conference Organizing Committee at: isdevnet.conferences@secretary.net with copy to thesummitorganizingcommittee@secretary.net and request for the registration form and the registration modalities. Further information including a detailed timetable with task distribution and materials for discussion will be communicated to you.
The extended deadline for late registration is NO LATER THAN MONDAY, 15th OCTOBER, 2012 to ensure timely receipt of registration forms, processing and allotting of sponsorship packages to eligible delegates.
==========================================================================
A/ ISDEVNET .2012/1
General Distribution.
July 4, 2012
English
A/ISDEVNET .2012/FD0286
Conference Theme: The Economic Challenges of Sustainability
"Almost four years after the Lehman Brothers collapsed, we are still struggling to come out of this meltdown as unemployment continues to rise. Are we any safer than we were some years ago? How well paved is the road to recovery? Have we learnt our lessons from the global meltdown?" Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, UN General Secretary.
The threat of government-debt defaults in Europe also indicates that the economic crisis continues to have consequences. The U.S. government’s efforts to prevent another Great Depression have left it saddled with a serious debt problem that could impede efforts to stabilize the economy for a long time to come. The future is especially uncertain.
Countries all over the globe are experiencing worryingly high levels of debt, much of which has been caused by reckless lending. Unsustainable and illegitimate debt is impeding sovereign development and preventing poverty reduction in developing countries. The financial crisis has deepened the problems of sovereign debt. A fair and lasting solution to the debt problem is urgently needed.
The recent United Nations Conference has been widely perceived as a failure, while the consequences of global warming continue to mount. Weather patterns are changing radically, natural disasters grow more frequent and more devastating, sea levels rise, cultural and biological diversity becomes more endangered, and economic prosperity decreases. Despite two years of advance work, the meeting failed to convert a rare gathering of world leaders into an ambitious, legally binding action plan for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
More than 7,000 people responded to our last economic survey, which measured the impact of these difficult economic times on the nonprofit sector. Among respondents, nearly half were CEOs, executive directors, or presidents—our leaders in the nonprofit industry. The results are compelling:
- Some 40 percent of participants reported that contributions to their organizations dropped between January 1 and May 31, 2011, compared to the same period a year earlier.
- Eight percent indicated that their organizations were in imminent danger of closing.
- Sixty-three percent reported a total increase in demand for their organization's services between January 1, 2011 and May 31, 2011, compared to the same period a year prior.
The International Sustainable Development Network (ISDEVNET) is holding the first largest and most diverse international gathering, dedicated to The Debt, Economic Crisis in its implications on sustainable development with a theme: The Economic Challenge of Sustainability. You are cordially invited to contribute to the success of this event with your effective participation.
The international community is now challenged by the severe impact on development of multiple, interrelated global crises and challenges, such as increased food insecurity, volatile energy and commodity prices, climate change, a debt and a global financial and economic crises. The International Sustainable Development Network by far the best analysis of how the financial, economic and debt crisis will affect humanitarian and development funding and how to develop a counter-cyclical strategy building. The conference programme is dedicated to the current situation and offers an open international forum for the discussion of this topic. The aim is to establish new design perspectives and actions through dialogue with representatives from civil society, politics, economics, and science, individuals, etc.
The First 2012 ISDEVNET Annual Conference and Steering Meeting will take place from:
Conference dates and locations:
• 12th – 16th November, 2012 in New York City, USA
• 19th – 23rd November, 2012 in Accra-Ghana
Participants are highly encouraged to attend the entire conference. This will give the best opportunity to exchange of ideas and to further develop the conference programme while enhancing the collaboration between the different participating institutions.
Venue: The conferences will take place in two selected different host countries: one in one in High Income Country (United States of America) and the second in a Middle and Low Income country (Ghana). The conference in New York City – USA will take place at NYC Seminar and Conference Center. The conference in Accra-Ghana will take place at Accra International Conference Center (AICC). There are excellent hotels in nearby distances from these venues.
The International Sustainable Development Network background: The International Sustainable Development Network is a private, nonprofit, nonpartisan research institution devoted to the study of world economy and Sustainable Development. The Centre provides timely analysis, and concrete solutions to a wide range of international economic and financial problems. The pursuit of sustainable development requires adequate attention and interactions among the environment, society and the economy. As such, our organization explores how the environment is valued; how public policy instruments can be designed better; and how abject poverty can be addressed sustainably. Background documents and information are available on the ISDEVNET website.
Conference Methodology: The conference is organized as an open discussion forum and provides scope for participants to explore the ins and outs of the economic crisis and it implications on sustainable development. Presentations by acclaimed experts from different fields of knowledge during the first half of the conference will form the starting point of the subsequent discussions. In the second half of the conference, participants will be divided into groups to work out the core issues from the focus points of the conference. The results and recommendations from the groups will be presented in plenum, discussed and finally made available to the participants;
The Conference will also provide various opportunities to engage participants in sharing experiences and articulating perspectives on how to enhance their activities in the financing of their various projects, especially the NGOs/CBOs including round table panel discussions and break-out sessions, interactive dialogue, workshops, caucuses and other activities.
Call for papers:
The conference will welcome submissions from non-profits, NGOs, CBOs, CSOs, scholars, financial experts, policy makers, and other practitioners. Participants will be able to enjoy shows, attractions, activities, and tours available in host cities.
The following topics can be covered in your submission and presentation:
# Causes of the Debt Crisis and proposed solutions
# The impact of the economic crisis on the nonprofit sector
# The Economic Crisis and the Climate Change
# Where does the world’s climate now stand with respect to global warming? Are we already at or beyond the “tipping point” beyond which there is no return?
# What can economists tell us about the costs and benefits of mitigation policies? What measures are most efficient from an economic perspective and in terms of carbon reduction?
# The Impact of the Financial and Economic Crisis on MDG's
# The Impact of the Financial and Economic Crisis on Developing Countries
# How can we best address the employment effects of these diverse climate proposals given the fragile states of the world economies?
# Proposals include cap and trade, carbon tax, development of renewable energy, new technologies, energy efficiency and changing the patterns of consumption.
# How does international policy ensure justice and fairness in global warming policy measures? To what extent do the proposed measures imply a just distribution of burdens and benefits for developing countries?
# If mitigation policies are too little and/or too late, what are realistic adaptation strategies that address the needs of poor countries and poor areas of rich countries burdened more than others?
# Any other related topic
Instructions for submission of papers:
# Please note that your submission is not limited to the above-mentioned topics and cross-disciplinary works are highly encouraged.
# The deadline for submitting papers is October 15, 2012 and early submissions are welcomed.
# Notification of acceptance of paper along with comments will be on or before October 23, 2012.
# Final papers expected by October 28, 2012 for inclusion in the Conference Proceedings.
# All papers should be submitted by email to isdevnet.conferences@secretary.net
Participation and target groups. We expect participants from:
Governments and international organizations: Representatives of international organizations including the World Bank, IMF, WTO, the United Nations, top regional organizations and development banks, Government representatives including, ministers of finance and economy, and ministers of social welfare, Political decision-making bodies (parliamentary committees, ministries both national and foreign).
Civil society:
Leaders from national and international NGOs/CBO's, Activists and trade union leaders, Religious and faith community leaders, Human Right Organizations, Microfinance institutions, private philanthropists, foundations.
The business sector:
CEOs and board-level executives, Social Entrepreneurs, Leaders of the world’s most influential industry associations, particularly from developing countries.
Academics institutions and leaders:
Experts from a wide range of fields, Presidents of the world’s top universities, Leaders of the world’s top think tanks,
Individuals: interested in knowing how the economic crisis is impacting their daily lives and how to cope with it.
Media: Publishers, editors-in-chief, top columnists and economic editors
Note:
(i) Organizations: Delegates from NGOs and diverse not-for-profit organizations will benefit from the International Sustainable Development Network (ISDEVNET ) sponsorship package. These organization(s) can nominate up to three (03) of their members to benefit from the sponsorship package.
(ii) Individuals: It is not necessary to be affiliated to any organization before taking part in the summits(s). The Conference Sponsorship packages are available for individuals that are interested to attend the conference.
Financial Support Acknowledgement and Sponsorship: It is gratefully acknowledged that the Local Organizing Committee receives financial support from private philanthropists, foundations, banks, and international non-governmental organizations for the participation of delegates from middle and low income countries (World Bank classification). As a result, the Center will provide sponsorship for up to three (03) International delegates from selected organizations and individuals in low and middle income countries. However, each delegate is required to pay a registration fee of 290 Euro or its equivalent currency. The sponsorship package covers accommodation, travel, access to the conference plenary meetings and parallel sessions, exhibition, Per Diem, meals and refreshment during the conference and a delegate bag with conference documentation. The sponsorship package excludes all other personal demands including medical expenses and recreation after the conference sessions. The ISDEVNET conference committee will assist delegates to acquire Visas and/or any other travelling documents where applicable.
Registration: Please email the conference Organizing Committee at: isdevnet.conferences@secretary.net with copy to thesummitorganizingcommittee@secretary.net and request for the registration form and the registration modalities. Further information including a detailed timetable with task distribution and materials for discussion will be communicated to you.
The extended deadline for late registration is NO LATER THAN MONDAY, 15th OCTOBER, 2012 to ensure timely receipt of registration forms, processing and allotting of sponsorship packages to eligible delegates.
We encourage NGOs that intend to submit projects for financing to request the Project Guide at the Office of International Relations by fax +1-484-720-584 or by email: isdevnet.secretariat@secretary.net
In order to encourage a large participation in the forthcoming summits, we would greatly appreciate if you can circulate the Conference Invitation as widely as possible to individuals, groups, and networks who may show interest for the topics covered in the case you cannot personally take part in the events.
Due to time constraints, interested participants are urged to confirm attendance beforehand. In order to facilitate effective and interactive communication, we require you to provide us with your full contact details including your telephone (office, mobile) and fax number(s) when replying to this invitation. While we anticipate your response at your earliest convenience, please do not hesitate to contact us for further information. We look forward to your participation in the upcoming conference(s).
Sincerely,
Sarah Lynch, Ph.D.
The Organizing Committee, Intl Registration Secretariat
112 Spring St., Suite 208
Saratoga Springs, New York NY 12866
Phone: +1-484-720-5840
Fax: +1-1-484-720-5840
Email: thesummitorganizingcommittee@secretary.net
New York City (USA)
FROM GENERAL ASSEMBLY PODIUM, ALBANIAN PRESIDENT CALLS FOR UN REFORM
FROM GENERAL ASSEMBLY PODIUM, ALBANIAN PRESIDENT CALLS FOR UN REFORM
New York, Sep 27 2012 8:10PM
>From the podium of the General Assembly, Albania's President Bujar Nishani today called on the United Nations to reform itself to better tackle the multiple crises facing the world.
"Notwithstanding an unprecedented global awareness, climate change remains a major source of preoccupation," President Nishani <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/AL_en.pdf">told the 67th Assembly on the third day of its annual General debate, at UN Headquarters in New York. "The continued deteriorating global economic climate continues to be a permanent disturbing source of anxiety everywhere.
"Threats to peace and security in different parts of the world show how far we still are from achieving the desired global security," he added. "It is therefore only just that we expect the United Nations, the organization we have placed at the centre of international architecture, to be more responsive, efficient, effective and transparent."
President Nishani noted that Albania, in June, hosted the 5th High Level Conference on Delivering as One, the initiative aimed at enabling the United Nations and its various agencies and programmes to strengthen their collective capacity to support countries' efforts to overcome poverty, hunger, inequity and achieve other development priorities.
"A growing number of countries are looking more clearly and closely to the benefits of having the UN work and implement assistance program with more coherence and efficiency," he said.
"Delivering as One has convincingly shown in practice how the operational activities of the United Nations could be delivered with higher efficiency and how the UN system can do better and more with less, in reaching the national and internationally agreed development goals," he added.
Other topics covered in his statement to the gathering included the Middle East peace process, Iran's nuclear programme, the crisis in Syria and the status of Kosovo.
The Albanian President is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 8:10PM
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New York, Sep 27 2012 8:10PM
>From the podium of the General Assembly, Albania's President Bujar Nishani today called on the United Nations to reform itself to better tackle the multiple crises facing the world.
"Notwithstanding an unprecedented global awareness, climate change remains a major source of preoccupation," President Nishani <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/AL_en.pdf">told the 67th Assembly on the third day of its annual General debate, at UN Headquarters in New York. "The continued deteriorating global economic climate continues to be a permanent disturbing source of anxiety everywhere.
"Threats to peace and security in different parts of the world show how far we still are from achieving the desired global security," he added. "It is therefore only just that we expect the United Nations, the organization we have placed at the centre of international architecture, to be more responsive, efficient, effective and transparent."
President Nishani noted that Albania, in June, hosted the 5th High Level Conference on Delivering as One, the initiative aimed at enabling the United Nations and its various agencies and programmes to strengthen their collective capacity to support countries' efforts to overcome poverty, hunger, inequity and achieve other development priorities.
"A growing number of countries are looking more clearly and closely to the benefits of having the UN work and implement assistance program with more coherence and efficiency," he said.
"Delivering as One has convincingly shown in practice how the operational activities of the United Nations could be delivered with higher efficiency and how the UN system can do better and more with less, in reaching the national and internationally agreed development goals," he added.
Other topics covered in his statement to the gathering included the Middle East peace process, Iran's nuclear programme, the crisis in Syria and the status of Kosovo.
The Albanian President is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 8:10PM
________________
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ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE CRUCIAL TO WATER AND FOOD SECURITY, BAN STRESSES AT UN EVENT
ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE CRUCIAL TO WATER AND FOOD SECURITY, BAN STRESSES AT UN EVENT
New York, Sep 27 2012 5:10PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called again for urgent and concrete action on climate change, as high-level officials gathered at the United Nations to discuss the growing global concern over the impacts of the phenomenon on food and water security.
"Action on climate change remains a major piece of unfinished business," Mr. Ban <"http://www.un.org/sg/statements/index.asp?nid=6330">told an event hosted by Qatar on the sidelines of the General Debate of the 67th session of the General Assembly.
Last December, Member States agreed to reach a legally binding agreement on climate change by 2015, he said, referring to the decision taken by the 194 parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) at their conference in Durban, South Africa.
"Two days ago I called on Member States to make good on this promise. Time is running out on our ability to limit the rise in global temperature to 2 degrees centigrade."
It is vital for everyone to work together to make the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference, to be held in the Qatari capital of Doha from 26 November to 7 December, "a major stepping stone to a global, robust and legally binding climate regime," said Mr. Ban.
The world, he said, is witnessing the highest levels of emissions ever; the Arctic sea ice is again at an all-time low; and it is another record year for wild fires, droughts and flooding. Climate change is making weather patterns both extreme and unpredictable, contributing to volatility in global food prices, which means food and nutrition insecurity for the poor and the most vulnerable.
The Secretary-General has made food security a top priority through the Zero Hunger Challenge he launched at the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), held in Brazil in June.
The initiative aims for a future where every individual has adequate nutrition and where all food systems are resilient. Its five objectives are to make sure that everyone in the world has access to enough nutritious food all year long; to end childhood stunting; to build sustainable food systems; to double the productivity and income of smallholder farmers, especially women; and to prevent food from being lost or wasted.
Ending hunger will mean climate-smart, climate-resilient agriculture, as well as policies that are water-smart, energy-efficient, and that promote inclusive green growth, Mr. Ban said.
Also crucial is more private and public investment in science, innovation and applied research, as well as innovative partnerships among farmers, governments, businesses, academia, international organizations and civil society.
"But our efforts will come to naught if we don't work together to slow down the carbon emissions that are warming the planet," Mr. Ban stated.
He called on governments to adopt the second commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol when they meet later this year in Doha. The first commitment period of the Protocol, the legally binding treaty to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, expires this year.
"The emission reduction targets of the new Kyoto treaty are not sufficient – we know that – but they are necessary starting point from which to build a future global agreement by 2015," he stated.
It is also important to address the gap between fast-start finance and long-term finance so that by 2020 climate finance is being mobilized at the agreed level of $100 billion a year, he said, calling for accelerating efforts to make the Green Climate Fund, approved last year in Durban, fully operational.
"This is the path to water and food security," he stated.
Sep 27 2012 5:10PM
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New York, Sep 27 2012 5:10PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called again for urgent and concrete action on climate change, as high-level officials gathered at the United Nations to discuss the growing global concern over the impacts of the phenomenon on food and water security.
"Action on climate change remains a major piece of unfinished business," Mr. Ban <"http://www.un.org/sg/statements/index.asp?nid=6330">told an event hosted by Qatar on the sidelines of the General Debate of the 67th session of the General Assembly.
Last December, Member States agreed to reach a legally binding agreement on climate change by 2015, he said, referring to the decision taken by the 194 parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) at their conference in Durban, South Africa.
"Two days ago I called on Member States to make good on this promise. Time is running out on our ability to limit the rise in global temperature to 2 degrees centigrade."
It is vital for everyone to work together to make the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference, to be held in the Qatari capital of Doha from 26 November to 7 December, "a major stepping stone to a global, robust and legally binding climate regime," said Mr. Ban.
The world, he said, is witnessing the highest levels of emissions ever; the Arctic sea ice is again at an all-time low; and it is another record year for wild fires, droughts and flooding. Climate change is making weather patterns both extreme and unpredictable, contributing to volatility in global food prices, which means food and nutrition insecurity for the poor and the most vulnerable.
The Secretary-General has made food security a top priority through the Zero Hunger Challenge he launched at the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), held in Brazil in June.
The initiative aims for a future where every individual has adequate nutrition and where all food systems are resilient. Its five objectives are to make sure that everyone in the world has access to enough nutritious food all year long; to end childhood stunting; to build sustainable food systems; to double the productivity and income of smallholder farmers, especially women; and to prevent food from being lost or wasted.
Ending hunger will mean climate-smart, climate-resilient agriculture, as well as policies that are water-smart, energy-efficient, and that promote inclusive green growth, Mr. Ban said.
Also crucial is more private and public investment in science, innovation and applied research, as well as innovative partnerships among farmers, governments, businesses, academia, international organizations and civil society.
"But our efforts will come to naught if we don't work together to slow down the carbon emissions that are warming the planet," Mr. Ban stated.
He called on governments to adopt the second commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol when they meet later this year in Doha. The first commitment period of the Protocol, the legally binding treaty to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, expires this year.
"The emission reduction targets of the new Kyoto treaty are not sufficient – we know that – but they are necessary starting point from which to build a future global agreement by 2015," he stated.
It is also important to address the gap between fast-start finance and long-term finance so that by 2020 climate finance is being mobilized at the agreed level of $100 billion a year, he said, calling for accelerating efforts to make the Green Climate Fund, approved last year in Durban, fully operational.
"This is the path to water and food security," he stated.
Sep 27 2012 5:10PM
________________
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PALESTINE TO SEEK UN NON-MEMBER STATE STATUS, ABBAS TELLS GENERAL ASSEMBLY DEBATE
PALESTINE TO SEEK UN NON-MEMBER STATE STATUS, ABBAS TELLS GENERAL ASSEMBLY DEBATE
New York, Sep 27 2012 5:10PM
The President of the Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abbas, whose bid for full United Nations membership failed last year, announced today from the podium of the General Assembly that he would seek non-Member State status this year, accusing Israel of apparently rejecting the internationally endorsed two-state solution.
"In our endeavour, we do not seek to delegitimize an existing State, that is Israel, but rather to assert the State that must be realized, that is Palestine," he <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/PS_en.pdf">told world leaders on the third day of the Assembly's annual General Debate at UN Headquarters in New York, calling on the Security Council to urgently adopt a "binding reference" for achieving the two-state solution.
"Despite all the complexities of the prevailing reality and all the frustrations that abound, we say before the international community: there is still a chance – maybe the last – to save the two-state solution and to salvage peace," he said, reciting a long list of actions, including Israeli settlement activity in occupied Palestinian territory.
Such actions negated the possibility of the internationally-endorsed two-state solution which envisages Palestine and Israeli living side by side in peace within secure and recognized borders, President Abbas stressed.
"Despite our feelings of disappointment and loss of hope, we continue to sincerely extend our hands to the Israeli people to make peace," he said. "We realize that ultimately the two peoples must live and coexist, each in their respective State, in the Holy Land. Further, we realize that progress towards making peace is through negotiations between the PLO (Palestine Liberation Organization) and Israel."
There can only be one understanding of Israel's actions, the Palestinian leader said, adding: "That one understanding leads to one conclusion: that the Israeli Government rejects the two-State solution." Israel has said it is prepared to discuss all matters with the Palestinians without pre-conditions.
Among the actions the Palestinian leader cited were 535 attacks perpetrated by "terrorist militias" of settlers, which he called a by-product of the "racist climate fuelled by a culture of incitement in the Israeli curriculum and extremist declarations, which are rife with hatred and are rooted in a series of discriminatory laws created and enacted over the years against the Palestinian people."
He added that Israel has carried out a campaign of ethnic cleansing in Jerusalem by demolishing Palestinian homes, preventing construction and revoking residency rights and has continued to build and expand settlements throughout the West Bank while suffocating Gaza with a blockade and attacks.
Moreover, he noted, Israel's continued occupation of East Jerusalem, its de facto annexation of large areas of the rest of the occupied Palestinian territory, its refusal to engage in any serious discussion on Palestinian refugees, and its other actions on the ground would leave only small Palestinian enclaves surrounded by large Israeli settlement blocs, walls, checkpoints and vast security zones and roads devoted to the settlers.
The core components of a just solution to the conflict entail the establishment of an independent Palestine, with East Jerusalem as its capital, over all the territory occupied by Israel since 1967, and a just solution to the Palestine refugee issue, President Abbas said.
"The international community, embodied in the United Nations, is required now more than ever to uphold its responsibilities," he stated. "The Security Council is called upon to urgently adopt a resolution comprising the basis and foundations for a solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict that would serve as a binding reference and guide for all if the vision of two-States, Israel and Palestine, is to survive and if peace is to prevail in the land of peace."
As to the new status he is seeking, President Abbas said the Palestinians had already begun intensive consultations with various regional organizations and Member States for the General Assembly to adopt a resolution considering the State of Palestine as a non-Member State during this session.
"We are confident that the vast majority of the countries of the world support our endeavour aimed at salvaging the chances for a just peace," he added.
The Palestinian Authority President is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 5:10PM
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New York, Sep 27 2012 5:10PM
The President of the Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abbas, whose bid for full United Nations membership failed last year, announced today from the podium of the General Assembly that he would seek non-Member State status this year, accusing Israel of apparently rejecting the internationally endorsed two-state solution.
"In our endeavour, we do not seek to delegitimize an existing State, that is Israel, but rather to assert the State that must be realized, that is Palestine," he <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/PS_en.pdf">told world leaders on the third day of the Assembly's annual General Debate at UN Headquarters in New York, calling on the Security Council to urgently adopt a "binding reference" for achieving the two-state solution.
"Despite all the complexities of the prevailing reality and all the frustrations that abound, we say before the international community: there is still a chance – maybe the last – to save the two-state solution and to salvage peace," he said, reciting a long list of actions, including Israeli settlement activity in occupied Palestinian territory.
Such actions negated the possibility of the internationally-endorsed two-state solution which envisages Palestine and Israeli living side by side in peace within secure and recognized borders, President Abbas stressed.
"Despite our feelings of disappointment and loss of hope, we continue to sincerely extend our hands to the Israeli people to make peace," he said. "We realize that ultimately the two peoples must live and coexist, each in their respective State, in the Holy Land. Further, we realize that progress towards making peace is through negotiations between the PLO (Palestine Liberation Organization) and Israel."
There can only be one understanding of Israel's actions, the Palestinian leader said, adding: "That one understanding leads to one conclusion: that the Israeli Government rejects the two-State solution." Israel has said it is prepared to discuss all matters with the Palestinians without pre-conditions.
Among the actions the Palestinian leader cited were 535 attacks perpetrated by "terrorist militias" of settlers, which he called a by-product of the "racist climate fuelled by a culture of incitement in the Israeli curriculum and extremist declarations, which are rife with hatred and are rooted in a series of discriminatory laws created and enacted over the years against the Palestinian people."
He added that Israel has carried out a campaign of ethnic cleansing in Jerusalem by demolishing Palestinian homes, preventing construction and revoking residency rights and has continued to build and expand settlements throughout the West Bank while suffocating Gaza with a blockade and attacks.
Moreover, he noted, Israel's continued occupation of East Jerusalem, its de facto annexation of large areas of the rest of the occupied Palestinian territory, its refusal to engage in any serious discussion on Palestinian refugees, and its other actions on the ground would leave only small Palestinian enclaves surrounded by large Israeli settlement blocs, walls, checkpoints and vast security zones and roads devoted to the settlers.
The core components of a just solution to the conflict entail the establishment of an independent Palestine, with East Jerusalem as its capital, over all the territory occupied by Israel since 1967, and a just solution to the Palestine refugee issue, President Abbas said.
"The international community, embodied in the United Nations, is required now more than ever to uphold its responsibilities," he stated. "The Security Council is called upon to urgently adopt a resolution comprising the basis and foundations for a solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict that would serve as a binding reference and guide for all if the vision of two-States, Israel and Palestine, is to survive and if peace is to prevail in the land of peace."
As to the new status he is seeking, President Abbas said the Palestinians had already begun intensive consultations with various regional organizations and Member States for the General Assembly to adopt a resolution considering the State of Palestine as a non-Member State during this session.
"We are confident that the vast majority of the countries of the world support our endeavour aimed at salvaging the chances for a just peace," he added.
The Palestinian Authority President is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 5:10PM
________________
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LEADERS AT UN EVENT UNITE BEHIND FINAL PUSH TO ERADICATE POLIO
LEADERS AT UN EVENT UNITE BEHIND FINAL PUSH TO ERADICATE POLIO
New York, Sep 27 2012 5:10PM
World leaders, donors and experts today hailed a "once-in-a-generation" opportunity to eradicate polio, as they gathered at the United Nations to celebrate efforts that have already reduced the incidence of the crippling and potentially fatal disease by 99 per cent around the globe.
"Globally, we have the lowest number of cases reported this year," Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon <"http://www.un.org/sg/statements/index.asp?nid=6328">told the high-level event on polio eradication, which took place on the sidelines of the General Assembly debate at UN Headquarters in New York.
"But everything hinges on stopping polio in a few districts in Nigeria, Pakistan and Afghanistan," he said, referring to the three remaining countries where the disease is endemic.
The vaccine-preventable infectious disease raged in 125 countries when the global fight against it began in 1988 under the banner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI). While India had long been regarded as the nation facing the greatest challenges to eradication, it has been polio free for more than 18 months.
But Mr. Ban said the success of the final push depended on the "quality" of the world's efforts in those remaining areas.
He called not only for close cooperation from government, religious, traditional and community leaders, but also for belligerents to play their part in helping end the disease.
"Where there is fighting and insecurity, we need warring parties to allow aid workers to operate," he told the gathering, which included the participation of Presidents Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan, Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria and Asif Ali Zardari of Pakistan. "I appeal to all parties to provide safe passage for health workers to access and vaccinate children."
Polio is among five major afflictions Mr. Ban pledged to aggressively tackle during this, his second term as Secretary-General. He is also committed to tackling malaria, new paediatric HIV infections, maternal and neonatal tetanus, and measles.
"This is a matter of health and justice. Every child should have the right to start life with equal protection from these diseases," Mr. Ban said.
The World Health Organization (WHO) spearheads the GPEI, whose ultimate success would mark an early milestone in the Decade of Vaccines, which in turn represents a global vision to provide all children with the vaccines they need.
"No single one of us can bring this long, hard drive over the last hurdle," WHO Director-General Margaret Chan said. "But together we can."
A major GPEI donor is the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, whose co-chair, Bill Gates, also spoke of the significance eradicating polio would have for combating other diseases.
"When we defeat polio, it will motivate us to aim for other great health and development milestones," he said.
GPEI is currently developing a long-term roadmap for ending polio through a strategy whose investment legacy will benefit other vaccine-preventable disease goals. This comes after 194 States of the World Health Assembly declared the final push towards polio eradication to be a "programmatic emergency for global public health."
"Governments need to step up and honour their commitments," Wilfred J. Wilkinson, Chair of Rotary Foundation Trustees, told today's gathering. For its part, Rotary International, which already has contributed $1.2 billion to polio eradication, announced additional funding of $75 million over three years for GPEI.
Pledges, initiatives and simple reinforcement of commitments came from a host of leaders and senior government officials, including those of Australia, Canada, Japan, Pakistan, the United Kingdom and the United States.
The Islamic Development Bank, a new donor to the polio eradication effort, announced a three-year $227 million financing package to Pakistan, and a $3 million grant for Afghanistan.
Sandro Rosell, President, Football Club Barcelona (FCB) and FCB Foundation, announced the club's engagement on the polio issue in collaboration with the Gates Foundation and Etisalat, the largest telecomm operator in the Middle East.
Among significant related upcoming events, some 60,000 people are expected to attend a concert in New York's Central Park on 29 September. The organizers, Global Poverty Project, say their Global Citizen Festival aims to inspire a global movement to voice support for both eradicating polio and for advancing the group's core cause, ending extreme poverty.
Sep 27 2012 5:10PM
________________
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New York, Sep 27 2012 5:10PM
World leaders, donors and experts today hailed a "once-in-a-generation" opportunity to eradicate polio, as they gathered at the United Nations to celebrate efforts that have already reduced the incidence of the crippling and potentially fatal disease by 99 per cent around the globe.
"Globally, we have the lowest number of cases reported this year," Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon <"http://www.un.org/sg/statements/index.asp?nid=6328">told the high-level event on polio eradication, which took place on the sidelines of the General Assembly debate at UN Headquarters in New York.
"But everything hinges on stopping polio in a few districts in Nigeria, Pakistan and Afghanistan," he said, referring to the three remaining countries where the disease is endemic.
The vaccine-preventable infectious disease raged in 125 countries when the global fight against it began in 1988 under the banner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI). While India had long been regarded as the nation facing the greatest challenges to eradication, it has been polio free for more than 18 months.
But Mr. Ban said the success of the final push depended on the "quality" of the world's efforts in those remaining areas.
He called not only for close cooperation from government, religious, traditional and community leaders, but also for belligerents to play their part in helping end the disease.
"Where there is fighting and insecurity, we need warring parties to allow aid workers to operate," he told the gathering, which included the participation of Presidents Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan, Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria and Asif Ali Zardari of Pakistan. "I appeal to all parties to provide safe passage for health workers to access and vaccinate children."
Polio is among five major afflictions Mr. Ban pledged to aggressively tackle during this, his second term as Secretary-General. He is also committed to tackling malaria, new paediatric HIV infections, maternal and neonatal tetanus, and measles.
"This is a matter of health and justice. Every child should have the right to start life with equal protection from these diseases," Mr. Ban said.
The World Health Organization (WHO) spearheads the GPEI, whose ultimate success would mark an early milestone in the Decade of Vaccines, which in turn represents a global vision to provide all children with the vaccines they need.
"No single one of us can bring this long, hard drive over the last hurdle," WHO Director-General Margaret Chan said. "But together we can."
A major GPEI donor is the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, whose co-chair, Bill Gates, also spoke of the significance eradicating polio would have for combating other diseases.
"When we defeat polio, it will motivate us to aim for other great health and development milestones," he said.
GPEI is currently developing a long-term roadmap for ending polio through a strategy whose investment legacy will benefit other vaccine-preventable disease goals. This comes after 194 States of the World Health Assembly declared the final push towards polio eradication to be a "programmatic emergency for global public health."
"Governments need to step up and honour their commitments," Wilfred J. Wilkinson, Chair of Rotary Foundation Trustees, told today's gathering. For its part, Rotary International, which already has contributed $1.2 billion to polio eradication, announced additional funding of $75 million over three years for GPEI.
Pledges, initiatives and simple reinforcement of commitments came from a host of leaders and senior government officials, including those of Australia, Canada, Japan, Pakistan, the United Kingdom and the United States.
The Islamic Development Bank, a new donor to the polio eradication effort, announced a three-year $227 million financing package to Pakistan, and a $3 million grant for Afghanistan.
Sandro Rosell, President, Football Club Barcelona (FCB) and FCB Foundation, announced the club's engagement on the polio issue in collaboration with the Gates Foundation and Etisalat, the largest telecomm operator in the Middle East.
Among significant related upcoming events, some 60,000 people are expected to attend a concert in New York's Central Park on 29 September. The organizers, Global Poverty Project, say their Global Citizen Festival aims to inspire a global movement to voice support for both eradicating polio and for advancing the group's core cause, ending extreme poverty.
Sep 27 2012 5:10PM
________________
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UN COMMITTED TO ADDRESSING MOST PRESSING ISSUES IN CARIBBEAN COUNTRIES, SAYS BAN
UN COMMITTED TO ADDRESSING MOST PRESSING ISSUES IN CARIBBEAN COUNTRIES, SAYS BAN
New York, Sep 27 2012 4:10PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today reiterated the commitment of the United Nations to help Caribbean countries tackle some of the most pressing issues in the region, including climate change, organized crime and debt.
"I attach great importance to regional cooperation among States and between regional organizations and the United Nations," Mr. Ban told the heads of Government of the 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
"CARICOM and the United Nations are good partners. I am committed to ensuring that our cooperation – both with the CARICOM Secretariat and with Member States – is more targeted and more responsive to the needs of the region."
Mr. Ban said he would continue to call on members of the Group of Eight (G8) and the Group of 20 (G20) to fulfil their pledges to maintain international aid, to help Caribbean countries whose growth has been weakened by high levels of debt and barriers to trade.
The Secretary-General also underlined that climate change is an urgent challenge that is having a "disproportionate impact" on the Caribbean, and praised the region's leadership during the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) in June.
"Your efforts helped to produce a far-reaching outcome document with concrete deliverables. I will look to you to continue that dynamic engagement as we move toward establishing a set of Sustainable Development Goals and outline a post-2015 development agenda," he said.
Transnational organized crime is also a growing threat with devastating impacts on women and youth and with the potential to undermine development and stability, Mr. Ban said. He underscored that the region must continue to work with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to implement a regional strategy, including the possibility of re-establishing a small permanent office in the Caribbean to address this problem.
Mr. Ban thanked CARICOM members for their support to Haiti, which is set to assume the chairmanship of the organization in January and encouraged them to maintain their commitment to the country's recovery and well-being.
"Thank you again for your support at this challenging time for the region and the world. I look forward to working with you to achieve our common goals of peace and security, sustainable development and human rights for all."
Sep 27 2012 4:10PM
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New York, Sep 27 2012 4:10PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today reiterated the commitment of the United Nations to help Caribbean countries tackle some of the most pressing issues in the region, including climate change, organized crime and debt.
"I attach great importance to regional cooperation among States and between regional organizations and the United Nations," Mr. Ban told the heads of Government of the 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
"CARICOM and the United Nations are good partners. I am committed to ensuring that our cooperation – both with the CARICOM Secretariat and with Member States – is more targeted and more responsive to the needs of the region."
Mr. Ban said he would continue to call on members of the Group of Eight (G8) and the Group of 20 (G20) to fulfil their pledges to maintain international aid, to help Caribbean countries whose growth has been weakened by high levels of debt and barriers to trade.
The Secretary-General also underlined that climate change is an urgent challenge that is having a "disproportionate impact" on the Caribbean, and praised the region's leadership during the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) in June.
"Your efforts helped to produce a far-reaching outcome document with concrete deliverables. I will look to you to continue that dynamic engagement as we move toward establishing a set of Sustainable Development Goals and outline a post-2015 development agenda," he said.
Transnational organized crime is also a growing threat with devastating impacts on women and youth and with the potential to undermine development and stability, Mr. Ban said. He underscored that the region must continue to work with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to implement a regional strategy, including the possibility of re-establishing a small permanent office in the Caribbean to address this problem.
Mr. Ban thanked CARICOM members for their support to Haiti, which is set to assume the chairmanship of the organization in January and encouraged them to maintain their commitment to the country's recovery and well-being.
"Thank you again for your support at this challenging time for the region and the world. I look forward to working with you to achieve our common goals of peace and security, sustainable development and human rights for all."
Sep 27 2012 4:10PM
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AT UN, EQUATORIAL GUINEA LEADER STRESSES NEED TO BOOST ASSISTANCE TO DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
AT UN, EQUATORIAL GUINEA LEADER STRESSES NEED TO BOOST ASSISTANCE TO DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
New York, Sep 27 2012 3:10PM
Helping developing countries make progress in eradicating extreme poverty is the most pressing issue that the international community faces today, the President of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, told the United Nations General Assembly today.
"The annual victims of hunger and diseases, which are mainly in developing countries, surpass the number of casualties caused by military confrontations," President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo said in his statement at the 67th Assembly's General Debate, which began at UN Headquarters in New York on Tuesday.
He added, "The negative effects of illiteracy, lack of shelter and malnutrition, typical of underdeveloped countries, are greater than the effects produced by catastrophes and natural disasters."
The Equatorial Guinea leader called on the United Nations to adopt special programmes for the world's least developed countries, so they can build the basic infrastructure needed to boost development in their countries, and stressed that developed countries must commit to support these programmes, which would also serve as a cooperation platform among affected countries.
Equatorial Guinea is making strides in its economic development programme, he noted, adding that the country aspires to become an emerging economy by 2020.
A programme to improve the country's infrastructure is now in place, the President said, and added that other in-depth political reforms will help accelerate his nation's rapid evolution and guarantee that Government mechanisms give wide liberties to citizens while also protecting human rights.
In addition, President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, like many other African leaders addressing the General Assembly, voiced his support for Security Council reform so that it reflects African membership.
"Africa claims its rights to be included in the Security Council. Africa wants to participate in the decision-making processes that affect its future," he said. "With everyone's participation, we would be able to adopt measures that can decrease the tendency of unilateralism and hegemony in international relations and mitigate those policies that threaten peace and sovereignty and oppose the economic and social development of the peoples."
The Equatorial Guinea President is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 3:10PM
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New York, Sep 27 2012 3:10PM
Helping developing countries make progress in eradicating extreme poverty is the most pressing issue that the international community faces today, the President of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, told the United Nations General Assembly today.
"The annual victims of hunger and diseases, which are mainly in developing countries, surpass the number of casualties caused by military confrontations," President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo said in his statement at the 67th Assembly's General Debate, which began at UN Headquarters in New York on Tuesday.
He added, "The negative effects of illiteracy, lack of shelter and malnutrition, typical of underdeveloped countries, are greater than the effects produced by catastrophes and natural disasters."
The Equatorial Guinea leader called on the United Nations to adopt special programmes for the world's least developed countries, so they can build the basic infrastructure needed to boost development in their countries, and stressed that developed countries must commit to support these programmes, which would also serve as a cooperation platform among affected countries.
Equatorial Guinea is making strides in its economic development programme, he noted, adding that the country aspires to become an emerging economy by 2020.
A programme to improve the country's infrastructure is now in place, the President said, and added that other in-depth political reforms will help accelerate his nation's rapid evolution and guarantee that Government mechanisms give wide liberties to citizens while also protecting human rights.
In addition, President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, like many other African leaders addressing the General Assembly, voiced his support for Security Council reform so that it reflects African membership.
"Africa claims its rights to be included in the Security Council. Africa wants to participate in the decision-making processes that affect its future," he said. "With everyone's participation, we would be able to adopt measures that can decrease the tendency of unilateralism and hegemony in international relations and mitigate those policies that threaten peace and sovereignty and oppose the economic and social development of the peoples."
The Equatorial Guinea President is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 3:10PM
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=?Windows-1252?Q?AT=20UN, =20FORMER=20YUGOSLAV=20REPUBLIC=20OF=20MACEDONIA=20URGES=20COOPERATION=20TO=20RESOLVE=20=93NAME=94=20ISSUE?=
AT UN, FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA URGES COOPERATION TO RESOLVE "NAME" ISSUE
New York, Sep 27 2012 3:10PM
Highlighting the importance of the rule of law at the United Nations General Assembly today, the President of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Gjorge Ivanov, today called for closer cooperation with Greece to resolve the "name" issue between them.
"In the spirit of good neighbourly relations and our strong determination to overcome and resolve open issues, I take this opportunity to appeal to our neighbour to work together in this direction," President Ivanov told the 67th Assembly's General Debate, which began at UN Headquarters in New York on Tuesday.
"We are neighbours. But we wish to be more than just neighbours. We wish to be partners, allies and friends and be able to build together the present and future of our people, our countries and our region," he added. "We wish to work together with them and build a safe, prosperous and free world for our children."
A UN-brokered Interim Accord was signed by the two countries in 1995, providing for the establishment of diplomatic relations between them and addressing other related issues. Under the Accord, the parties agreed to continue negotiations under the auspices of Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon with a view to reaching agreement on their difference over the "name."
In his remarks, President Ivanov referred to a decision made last year by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) – the principal judicial organ of the United Nations – which found that Greece, by objecting to the admission of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, had breached part of the Interim Accord.
"Out of this place, out of the heart of the United Nations, I urge them to respect the judgment of the International Court of Justice and to respect its internationally assumed obligations from the Interim Accord," he stated.
Noting its relevance to the rule of law, the President said the concept faces a challenge if the processes it is supposed to improve or the solutions it is supposed to offer take too long.
"A solution has to be reached, in the interest of good neighbourly relations, in the interest of regional cooperation," he said. "And the best way to help is to provide full respect of the UN Charter, of the Interim Accord and of the judgment of the International Court of Justice. In other words, to provide uncompromised adherence to the framework offered by the resolutions."
"We ask for this because we have been prevented from using our constitutional name even at this very stand," he continued. "The International Court of Justice, in article 95 of the judgment, stated clearly: Macedonia has the right to refer to itself as the Republic of Macedonia in its relations with the other party and within international organizations."
The President added that the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia is keen to see Greece make its way out of its current economic crisis as soon as possible, and has proposed a series of measures on how to upgrade their economic and "good neighbourly" cooperation, including a bilateral agreement on the evasion of double taxation.
Other topics which President Ivanov touched upon in his statement included international mediation, sustainable development, youth and regional cooperation.
The President is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 3:10PM
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New York, Sep 27 2012 3:10PM
Highlighting the importance of the rule of law at the United Nations General Assembly today, the President of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Gjorge Ivanov, today called for closer cooperation with Greece to resolve the "name" issue between them.
"In the spirit of good neighbourly relations and our strong determination to overcome and resolve open issues, I take this opportunity to appeal to our neighbour to work together in this direction," President Ivanov told the 67th Assembly's General Debate, which began at UN Headquarters in New York on Tuesday.
"We are neighbours. But we wish to be more than just neighbours. We wish to be partners, allies and friends and be able to build together the present and future of our people, our countries and our region," he added. "We wish to work together with them and build a safe, prosperous and free world for our children."
A UN-brokered Interim Accord was signed by the two countries in 1995, providing for the establishment of diplomatic relations between them and addressing other related issues. Under the Accord, the parties agreed to continue negotiations under the auspices of Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon with a view to reaching agreement on their difference over the "name."
In his remarks, President Ivanov referred to a decision made last year by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) – the principal judicial organ of the United Nations – which found that Greece, by objecting to the admission of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, had breached part of the Interim Accord.
"Out of this place, out of the heart of the United Nations, I urge them to respect the judgment of the International Court of Justice and to respect its internationally assumed obligations from the Interim Accord," he stated.
Noting its relevance to the rule of law, the President said the concept faces a challenge if the processes it is supposed to improve or the solutions it is supposed to offer take too long.
"A solution has to be reached, in the interest of good neighbourly relations, in the interest of regional cooperation," he said. "And the best way to help is to provide full respect of the UN Charter, of the Interim Accord and of the judgment of the International Court of Justice. In other words, to provide uncompromised adherence to the framework offered by the resolutions."
"We ask for this because we have been prevented from using our constitutional name even at this very stand," he continued. "The International Court of Justice, in article 95 of the judgment, stated clearly: Macedonia has the right to refer to itself as the Republic of Macedonia in its relations with the other party and within international organizations."
The President added that the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia is keen to see Greece make its way out of its current economic crisis as soon as possible, and has proposed a series of measures on how to upgrade their economic and "good neighbourly" cooperation, including a bilateral agreement on the evasion of double taxation.
Other topics which President Ivanov touched upon in his statement included international mediation, sustainable development, youth and regional cooperation.
The President is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 3:10PM
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=?Windows-1252?Q?MYANMAR=92S=20DEMOCRATIC=20TRANSITION=20NEEDS=20CONTINUED=20SUPPORT, =20PATIENCE, =20PRESIDENT=20TELLS=20UN?=
MYANMAR'S DEMOCRATIC TRANSITION NEEDS CONTINUED SUPPORT, PATIENCE, PRESIDENT TELLS UN
New York, Sep 27 2012 2:10PM
While Myanmar is making progress in its democratic transition, it faces a number of formidable challenges that will require both the continued support and patience of its people, the United Nations and the wider international community, the country's President Thein Sein told the UN General Assembly today.
"Myanmar is now ushering in a new era," President Sein said in his <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/MM_en.pdf">address to the Assembly's General Debate, while noting that the democratic path has not been an easy one. "In the ongoing reform process, we are facing challenges as well as opportunities."
The people of Myanmar have been able to bring about "amazing" changes in a short period of time, he said. "Leaving behind a system of authoritarian government wherein the administrative, legislative and judicial powers were centralized, we have now been able to put in place a democratic government and a strong, visible parliament."
Other developments include the granting of amnesties to prisoners, the successful holding of by-elections this year, and the abolition of media censorship, the President said. In addition, opposition leader and Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi – who spent nearly two decades under house arrest, before her release in November 2010 – is now participating in the parliament.
Stating that the cessation of all armed conflicts is a prerequisite for the building of genuine democracy, President Sein reported that ceasefire agreements have been reached with 10 armed groups in the country. Talks will continue with the aim of reaching a final peace agreement that would completely end the armed hostilities.
"While the Government is resolutely pursuing political, social and economic reforms, some unfortunate and unexpected issues have come up in our way," the President stated, citing the recent communal violence in the western state of Rakhine as an example.
Recent tensions between Buddhists and Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine left at least a dozen civilians dead and hundreds of homes destroyed, as well as at least 64,000 people displaced.
President Sein established a 27-member commission to investigate the violence, comprising representatives from the Buddhist, Muslim, Christian and Hindu faiths.
"The issue at hand cannot be solved overnight," he noted. "It will be resolved by taking short-term and long-term measures through a multi-faceted approach taking into account political, economic and social aspects."
He said Myanmar's democratic transformation process would be a "complex and delicate" one that requires patience. "To complete this process, we certainly need the understanding and support from the United Nations and its Member States, the international community as a whole and, last but not least, the people of Myanmar."
The President of Myanmar is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 2:10PM
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New York, Sep 27 2012 2:10PM
While Myanmar is making progress in its democratic transition, it faces a number of formidable challenges that will require both the continued support and patience of its people, the United Nations and the wider international community, the country's President Thein Sein told the UN General Assembly today.
"Myanmar is now ushering in a new era," President Sein said in his <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/MM_en.pdf">address to the Assembly's General Debate, while noting that the democratic path has not been an easy one. "In the ongoing reform process, we are facing challenges as well as opportunities."
The people of Myanmar have been able to bring about "amazing" changes in a short period of time, he said. "Leaving behind a system of authoritarian government wherein the administrative, legislative and judicial powers were centralized, we have now been able to put in place a democratic government and a strong, visible parliament."
Other developments include the granting of amnesties to prisoners, the successful holding of by-elections this year, and the abolition of media censorship, the President said. In addition, opposition leader and Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi – who spent nearly two decades under house arrest, before her release in November 2010 – is now participating in the parliament.
Stating that the cessation of all armed conflicts is a prerequisite for the building of genuine democracy, President Sein reported that ceasefire agreements have been reached with 10 armed groups in the country. Talks will continue with the aim of reaching a final peace agreement that would completely end the armed hostilities.
"While the Government is resolutely pursuing political, social and economic reforms, some unfortunate and unexpected issues have come up in our way," the President stated, citing the recent communal violence in the western state of Rakhine as an example.
Recent tensions between Buddhists and Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine left at least a dozen civilians dead and hundreds of homes destroyed, as well as at least 64,000 people displaced.
President Sein established a 27-member commission to investigate the violence, comprising representatives from the Buddhist, Muslim, Christian and Hindu faiths.
"The issue at hand cannot be solved overnight," he noted. "It will be resolved by taking short-term and long-term measures through a multi-faceted approach taking into account political, economic and social aspects."
He said Myanmar's democratic transformation process would be a "complex and delicate" one that requires patience. "To complete this process, we certainly need the understanding and support from the United Nations and its Member States, the international community as a whole and, last but not least, the people of Myanmar."
The President of Myanmar is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 2:10PM
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NEW PUSH NEEDED TO ENHANCE SAFETY OF PASSENGER SHIPPING, SAYS UN MARITIME OFFICIAL
NEW PUSH NEEDED TO ENHANCE SAFETY OF PASSENGER SHIPPING, SAYS UN MARITIME OFFICIAL
New York, Sep 27 2012 1:10PM
As he marked <"http://www.imo.org/About/Events/WorldMaritimeDay/wmd2012/Pages/default.aspx">World Maritime Day, the head of the United Nations agency mandated to ensure safety for shipping called today for enhanced safety measures that take account of changes in the industry.
"Each new generation of vessels brings fresh challenges and, regrettably, accidents still occur, reinforcing the need for continual improvement," Koji Sekimizu, the Secretary-General of the UN International Maritime Organization (IMO), said in his <"http://www.imo.org/About/Events/WorldMaritimeDay/wmd2012/Pages/WMD2012message.aspx">message for the Day.
"Our efforts to promote maritime safety, not least of passenger ships, will never stop. We should respond quickly to accidents and we must be proactive."
Passenger-ship safety is embedded in the theme of this, the 35th World Maritime Day. "IMO: One hundred years after the Titanic" marks the ocean liner's sinking on 14 April 1912.
"As we look back on that pivotal disaster 100 years ago, I urge IMO member governments and the shipping industry as a whole to refresh their determination to improve and enhance the safety of passenger shipping today, and into the future," Mr. Sekimizu said.
"The lives of thousands of people are in the hands of the ship's management, the captain and crew and the operating staff. I therefore hope that this sector, in particular, will take the opportunity to lead the way, because 'safety' is the main product – not comfort, entertainment or leisure."
Mr. Sekimizu also warned that, without safety, the industry "will not survive, let along sustain its growth."
"Real safety," he added, "does not result simply as a consequence of regulation-compliance."
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon also referred to the Titanic tragedy in his World Maritime Day remarks, in which he saluted the achievements of the IMO, which emerged after the adoption of the first-ever International Convention on Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) – two years after the Titanic's sinking.
"Thanks largely to the IMO regulatory regime, shipping today is safer and more environmentally friendly than it has ever been," Mr. Ban <"http://www.imo.org/About/Events/WorldMaritimeDay/wmd2012/Pages/WMD2012UNSG.aspx">said, noting that regulations to ensure that all new passenger vessels are constructed to the highest possible standards were adopted by the IMO in 2006, and entered into force in 2010.
"A century after the Titanic was lost in the icy waters of the North Atlantic, the IMO is striving to ensure continual improvement in safety at sea."
The UN marked last year's World Maritime Day by warning of the high costs piracy was imposing on the shipping industry. This year, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) stressed the importance of tackling the piracy problem off the Horn of Africa at its source: on dry land.
"Piracy is also an issue of social and economic development as well as the rule of law and security," said Yury Fedotov, UNODC Executive Director. "This means adding UNODC's expertise on drugs and crime and terrorism to the overall promotion of democratic development of countries in the region."
Sep 27 2012 1:10PM
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New York, Sep 27 2012 1:10PM
As he marked <"http://www.imo.org/About/Events/WorldMaritimeDay/wmd2012/Pages/default.aspx">World Maritime Day, the head of the United Nations agency mandated to ensure safety for shipping called today for enhanced safety measures that take account of changes in the industry.
"Each new generation of vessels brings fresh challenges and, regrettably, accidents still occur, reinforcing the need for continual improvement," Koji Sekimizu, the Secretary-General of the UN International Maritime Organization (IMO), said in his <"http://www.imo.org/About/Events/WorldMaritimeDay/wmd2012/Pages/WMD2012message.aspx">message for the Day.
"Our efforts to promote maritime safety, not least of passenger ships, will never stop. We should respond quickly to accidents and we must be proactive."
Passenger-ship safety is embedded in the theme of this, the 35th World Maritime Day. "IMO: One hundred years after the Titanic" marks the ocean liner's sinking on 14 April 1912.
"As we look back on that pivotal disaster 100 years ago, I urge IMO member governments and the shipping industry as a whole to refresh their determination to improve and enhance the safety of passenger shipping today, and into the future," Mr. Sekimizu said.
"The lives of thousands of people are in the hands of the ship's management, the captain and crew and the operating staff. I therefore hope that this sector, in particular, will take the opportunity to lead the way, because 'safety' is the main product – not comfort, entertainment or leisure."
Mr. Sekimizu also warned that, without safety, the industry "will not survive, let along sustain its growth."
"Real safety," he added, "does not result simply as a consequence of regulation-compliance."
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon also referred to the Titanic tragedy in his World Maritime Day remarks, in which he saluted the achievements of the IMO, which emerged after the adoption of the first-ever International Convention on Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) – two years after the Titanic's sinking.
"Thanks largely to the IMO regulatory regime, shipping today is safer and more environmentally friendly than it has ever been," Mr. Ban <"http://www.imo.org/About/Events/WorldMaritimeDay/wmd2012/Pages/WMD2012UNSG.aspx">said, noting that regulations to ensure that all new passenger vessels are constructed to the highest possible standards were adopted by the IMO in 2006, and entered into force in 2010.
"A century after the Titanic was lost in the icy waters of the North Atlantic, the IMO is striving to ensure continual improvement in safety at sea."
The UN marked last year's World Maritime Day by warning of the high costs piracy was imposing on the shipping industry. This year, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) stressed the importance of tackling the piracy problem off the Horn of Africa at its source: on dry land.
"Piracy is also an issue of social and economic development as well as the rule of law and security," said Yury Fedotov, UNODC Executive Director. "This means adding UNODC's expertise on drugs and crime and terrorism to the overall promotion of democratic development of countries in the region."
Sep 27 2012 1:10PM
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=?Windows-1252?Q?AT=20GENERAL=20DEBATE, =20MONGOLIA=92S=20PRESIDENT=20CALLS=20FOR=20MORE=20WOMEN=20IN=20LEADERSHIP=20POSITIONS?=
AT GENERAL DEBATE, MONGOLIA'S PRESIDENT CALLS FOR MORE WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP POSITIONS
New York, Sep 27 2012 1:10PM
The vital role of women in society was a key feature in the speech of Mongolia's President Tsakhia Elbegdorj to the United Nations General Assembly today, with a particular call for more women in leadership positions.
"We need more women leaders. Women tend to see the whole picture. For society to advance, we need more women in public service at all levels – local to global. They bring a unique perspective often missing in global challenges," President Elbegdorj <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/MN_en_0.pdf">told the 67th Assembly's General Debate, taking place at UN Headquarters in New York.
"Have you ever heard of a woman bloody dictator or tyrant? I think not. If there were more women in power, I think we would have more harmony, more engagement and less suffering and less conflict," he added, noting that at his country last elections, it tripled the number of women in its parliament.
With mothers wanting a better life for their children, the Mongolian leader said too many of them suffer when their children struggle – whether it is for lack of human rights or economic opportunity – and highlighted their valuable role in society.
"My 92-year-old-mother reminds me daily to serve all people with respect – especially women, children and the elderly. Women are the backbone of the family and the bedrock of a nation," he said. "They bring life into the world. They sense the cries of an infant. Their instincts are to care for the old, the sick and those in need. Our mothers, sisters and daughters share a core value of caring for others."
Noting that education is the "most basic" human right and the fundamental building block for human development and free societies, President Elbegdorj said that the way to empower women is to ensure that girls share the same education opportunities as boys.
"The return on investment will be higher – for both the young men and women of tomorrow and for the world. Educated nations are more secure economically, respect human rights and have greater political freedom," he said, adding that instead of weapons, the world should invest more in education. "We owe our children – all of them – the doors that a strong education can open."
Citing the historic Mongolian leader Genghis Khan, President Elbegdorj reaffirmed his country's commitment to being part of the international community and its efforts to create a better world, despite the challenges involved in those efforts.
"Eight hundred and fifty years ago, our great King [Genghis] Khan was born. He built the largest land empire in the history of the world. This great King did not erect a single statute to himself. [Genghis] Khan famously noted, 'It was easier to conquer the world on horseback than to dismount and try to govern,'" the President said.
"Let's be frank. It's not easy to be a diplomat in a troubled world. It's not easy to fight for equal opportunities for all. It's not easy to shine a light on corruption. It's not easy to govern by the rule of law. It's not easy to build real democracy," he continued. "It is easier to build statues. It is easier to destroy. It is hard to govern well. But we all must dismount and govern and govern well."
Other topics covered in his statement to the General Debate included the crisis in Syria, the need to protect the environment and expanding human rights.
President Elbegdorj is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 1:10PM
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New York, Sep 27 2012 1:10PM
The vital role of women in society was a key feature in the speech of Mongolia's President Tsakhia Elbegdorj to the United Nations General Assembly today, with a particular call for more women in leadership positions.
"We need more women leaders. Women tend to see the whole picture. For society to advance, we need more women in public service at all levels – local to global. They bring a unique perspective often missing in global challenges," President Elbegdorj <"http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/67/MN_en_0.pdf">told the 67th Assembly's General Debate, taking place at UN Headquarters in New York.
"Have you ever heard of a woman bloody dictator or tyrant? I think not. If there were more women in power, I think we would have more harmony, more engagement and less suffering and less conflict," he added, noting that at his country last elections, it tripled the number of women in its parliament.
With mothers wanting a better life for their children, the Mongolian leader said too many of them suffer when their children struggle – whether it is for lack of human rights or economic opportunity – and highlighted their valuable role in society.
"My 92-year-old-mother reminds me daily to serve all people with respect – especially women, children and the elderly. Women are the backbone of the family and the bedrock of a nation," he said. "They bring life into the world. They sense the cries of an infant. Their instincts are to care for the old, the sick and those in need. Our mothers, sisters and daughters share a core value of caring for others."
Noting that education is the "most basic" human right and the fundamental building block for human development and free societies, President Elbegdorj said that the way to empower women is to ensure that girls share the same education opportunities as boys.
"The return on investment will be higher – for both the young men and women of tomorrow and for the world. Educated nations are more secure economically, respect human rights and have greater political freedom," he said, adding that instead of weapons, the world should invest more in education. "We owe our children – all of them – the doors that a strong education can open."
Citing the historic Mongolian leader Genghis Khan, President Elbegdorj reaffirmed his country's commitment to being part of the international community and its efforts to create a better world, despite the challenges involved in those efforts.
"Eight hundred and fifty years ago, our great King [Genghis] Khan was born. He built the largest land empire in the history of the world. This great King did not erect a single statute to himself. [Genghis] Khan famously noted, 'It was easier to conquer the world on horseback than to dismount and try to govern,'" the President said.
"Let's be frank. It's not easy to be a diplomat in a troubled world. It's not easy to fight for equal opportunities for all. It's not easy to shine a light on corruption. It's not easy to govern by the rule of law. It's not easy to build real democracy," he continued. "It is easier to build statues. It is easier to destroy. It is hard to govern well. But we all must dismount and govern and govern well."
Other topics covered in his statement to the General Debate included the crisis in Syria, the need to protect the environment and expanding human rights.
President Elbegdorj is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 1:10PM
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AT UN, COMOROS SPEAKS UP FOR SMALL ISLAND STATES THREATENED BY CLIMATE CHANGE
AT UN, COMOROS SPEAKS UP FOR SMALL ISLAND STATES THREATENED BY CLIMATE CHANGE
New York, Sep 27 2012 1:10PM
The leader of the Indian Ocean archipelago of Comoros, President Ikililou Dhoinine, took the podium at the United Nations General Assembly today to appeal for international help to help small countries like his confront the potentially devastating impact of climate change.
"The time has come to re-launch with greater resolve several international projects that have been suspended, notably those that favour mitigation and adaptation measure in the face of climate change," President Dhoinine told the 67th Assembly on the third day of its annual General Debate, at UN Headquarters in New York.
"We must react effectively to this phenomenon that affects the whole planet, but especially small island states like Comoros," he said, noting that two weeks of unusually torrential rains in April had delivered a disastrous blow to his country's economy.
Turning to the general world situation, President Dhoinine called for rapid action to put an end to the "terrible suffering" of the people of Syria, where over 18,000 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands of others driven from their homes since an uprising against President Bashar al-Assad erupted 18 months ago.
He called for full UN membership for a Palestinian state based on a two-state solution with Israel and Palestine living side by side within secure and recognized borders, and condemned attacks against civilians and the destruction of sacred sites in northern Mali, where Islamic militants seized control earlier this year.
As other African leaders have done at the General Debate, he also called for reform and expansion of the 15-member Security Council to give Africa the representation it deserves.
President Dhoinine is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 1:10PM
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New York, Sep 27 2012 1:10PM
The leader of the Indian Ocean archipelago of Comoros, President Ikililou Dhoinine, took the podium at the United Nations General Assembly today to appeal for international help to help small countries like his confront the potentially devastating impact of climate change.
"The time has come to re-launch with greater resolve several international projects that have been suspended, notably those that favour mitigation and adaptation measure in the face of climate change," President Dhoinine told the 67th Assembly on the third day of its annual General Debate, at UN Headquarters in New York.
"We must react effectively to this phenomenon that affects the whole planet, but especially small island states like Comoros," he said, noting that two weeks of unusually torrential rains in April had delivered a disastrous blow to his country's economy.
Turning to the general world situation, President Dhoinine called for rapid action to put an end to the "terrible suffering" of the people of Syria, where over 18,000 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands of others driven from their homes since an uprising against President Bashar al-Assad erupted 18 months ago.
He called for full UN membership for a Palestinian state based on a two-state solution with Israel and Palestine living side by side within secure and recognized borders, and condemned attacks against civilians and the destruction of sacred sites in northern Mali, where Islamic militants seized control earlier this year.
As other African leaders have done at the General Debate, he also called for reform and expansion of the 15-member Security Council to give Africa the representation it deserves.
President Dhoinine is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October.
Sep 27 2012 1:10PM
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Question about phoenix-local-news.blogspot.com
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=?Windows-1252?Q?LAUDING=20YEMEN=92S=20PROGRESS, =20BAN=20CALLS=20FOR=20CONTINUED=20SUPPORT=20TO=20PROTECT=20=91FRAGILE=20GAINS=92?=
LAUDING YEMEN'S PROGRESS, BAN CALLS FOR CONTINUED SUPPORT TO PROTECT 'FRAGILE GAINS'
New York, Sep 27 2012 12:10PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today congratulated Yemen for the progress it has made in its democratic transition and called on the international community to support the Middle Eastern nation so it can 'protect its fragile gains' and address its humanitarian needs.
"The people of Yemen have embarked on a path of change for their country. Today, the international community has an important opportunity to discuss how it can best help Yemen and its people to move forward towards a better future," Mr. Ban <"http://www.un.org/sg/statements/index.asp?nid=6324">said at the Friends of Yemen Ministerial Meeting, which took place on the margins of the 67th session of the General Assembly in New York.
Yemen has been undergoing a democratic transition, under the leadership of President Abdrabuh Mansour Hadi Mansour, who came to power in an election in February. This followed the agreement signed by warring factions in November 2011 on a transitional settlement in the wake of widespread protests similar to those seen across the Middle East and North Africa and the resignation of former president Ali Abdullah Saleh.
"One year ago, Yemen was on the brink of civil war. Now, despite the many challenges ahead, Yemen has a new, elected President, a Government of national unity and a framework for economic recovery. Yemenis from all walks of life are gearing up for a vibrant national debate to help shape the future of their country," Mr. Ban said.
In particular, he praised the President for his work since his election, and reiterated the UN's readiness to support Yemen in its new phase.
"I would like to commend you, President Hadi, for your efforts to reach out to all Yemenis to restore peace, stability and security, restructure the Yemeni armed forces, and free Yemen from terrorism," he said. "I expect all Yemenis to work constructively towards achieving these and all other transition goals in full and on time."
Mr. Ban stressed that to sustain the current pace of progress, it will be necessary to translate the $6.4 billion recently pledged by international donors into tangible results on the ground, especially to address Yemen's humanitarian needs.
More than 10 million people – almost half the country's population – are estimated to need food assistance, according to the World Food Programme (WFP). Child malnutrition rates are also among the highest in the world with close to half of its children under five years – two million children – stunted and one million acutely malnourished.
The country is particularly vulnerable to rises in food prices since it imports up to 90 per cent of its main staple foods, including wheat and sugar.
Mr. Ban said he would mobilize the entire UN system to back the President's efforts to ensure a successful political transition as well as prosperity for all Yemeni people.
"Yemen is making steady progress toward greater stability and development. We must do everything possible to protect the fragile gains," Mr. Ban said. "The reverberations of Yemen's transition will be felt beyond the country's borders. Success will also send important signals to other States facing similar challenges. Let us pledge our commitment to supporting the courageous Yemeni people as they build a more promising future."
Sep 27 2012 12:10PM
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New York, Sep 27 2012 12:10PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today congratulated Yemen for the progress it has made in its democratic transition and called on the international community to support the Middle Eastern nation so it can 'protect its fragile gains' and address its humanitarian needs.
"The people of Yemen have embarked on a path of change for their country. Today, the international community has an important opportunity to discuss how it can best help Yemen and its people to move forward towards a better future," Mr. Ban <"http://www.un.org/sg/statements/index.asp?nid=6324">said at the Friends of Yemen Ministerial Meeting, which took place on the margins of the 67th session of the General Assembly in New York.
Yemen has been undergoing a democratic transition, under the leadership of President Abdrabuh Mansour Hadi Mansour, who came to power in an election in February. This followed the agreement signed by warring factions in November 2011 on a transitional settlement in the wake of widespread protests similar to those seen across the Middle East and North Africa and the resignation of former president Ali Abdullah Saleh.
"One year ago, Yemen was on the brink of civil war. Now, despite the many challenges ahead, Yemen has a new, elected President, a Government of national unity and a framework for economic recovery. Yemenis from all walks of life are gearing up for a vibrant national debate to help shape the future of their country," Mr. Ban said.
In particular, he praised the President for his work since his election, and reiterated the UN's readiness to support Yemen in its new phase.
"I would like to commend you, President Hadi, for your efforts to reach out to all Yemenis to restore peace, stability and security, restructure the Yemeni armed forces, and free Yemen from terrorism," he said. "I expect all Yemenis to work constructively towards achieving these and all other transition goals in full and on time."
Mr. Ban stressed that to sustain the current pace of progress, it will be necessary to translate the $6.4 billion recently pledged by international donors into tangible results on the ground, especially to address Yemen's humanitarian needs.
More than 10 million people – almost half the country's population – are estimated to need food assistance, according to the World Food Programme (WFP). Child malnutrition rates are also among the highest in the world with close to half of its children under five years – two million children – stunted and one million acutely malnourished.
The country is particularly vulnerable to rises in food prices since it imports up to 90 per cent of its main staple foods, including wheat and sugar.
Mr. Ban said he would mobilize the entire UN system to back the President's efforts to ensure a successful political transition as well as prosperity for all Yemeni people.
"Yemen is making steady progress toward greater stability and development. We must do everything possible to protect the fragile gains," Mr. Ban said. "The reverberations of Yemen's transition will be felt beyond the country's borders. Success will also send important signals to other States facing similar challenges. Let us pledge our commitment to supporting the courageous Yemeni people as they build a more promising future."
Sep 27 2012 12:10PM
________________
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