A/43/PV.32 General Assembly

I have to info~ members of & change in our tentative programme of work. Agenda item 26, "Co-operation between the United Nations and the Organization of African Unity", originally scheduled for consideration today, will instead be taken up at a future meeting in order to allow time for the sponsors to submit the information required for the examination of the programme bUdget implications of draft reBolution A/43/L.l.

We ha~e conclu6ed our consideration of Agenda item 13. AG!NDA ITEM 20 CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE UNITED NATIONS AND THE ASIAN-AFRICAN LEGAL CONSULTATIVE Ca4MI'nEB (a) REPORT or THE SECRETARY-GENERAL (A/43/640) (b) DRAFT RESOLUTION (A/43/L.4) Th' PRESIDENT (interpretation from Spanish): In regard to this item, a draft resolution has been circulated in document A/43/L.4. I also wish to info~ the General Assembly of the following additional sponsors of draft resolution A/43/L.4t Australia, Canada, Mongolia and Thailand. I DOW call on Mr. Frant NjeDga, Secretary-General of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee, in accordance with General Assembly resolution 35/2, of 13 October 1980. Mr. NJIHGA (Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee (AALCC»: Pe~it me to ofier you, Sir, on behalf of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee and on my own bebalf, our wa~est congratulations on your election as President of the General Assembly at its forty-third session. We are confident that, with the benefit of your experience and wisdom, the forty-third session will be able to achieve historic success. For the first time since the creation of the United Nations mankind has great expectations and hope of the United Nations. The new initiatives launched by the United Nations in differenct conflict sones of the world deserve full support and encouragement. I pledge to you, Sir, and the United Nations thB fullest co-operation of the Asian-African Legal Coneultative C~ittee and its entire membership in the .fulfilment and realisation of these hopes and aspirations for international peace. I wish to take this opportunity to express our most sincere congratulations to Mr Javier Peres d~ Cuellar, the Secretary-General, whoBe tireless efforts have made this possible. "lbe award of the Nobel Peace Priae to the United Nations peace-keeping forces is a fitting tribute to the efforts that tbe Secretary-General and the United Nations have deployed in the quest for international peace and security. It may be recalled that at the forty-first ses8ion, in 1986, the General &saembly, in its resolution 41/5, while noting with seti.faction the progreas achieved during the preceding five years towards enhancing co-operation between the AALCC and the United Nations, requested the Secretary-General to submit to the two organizations. That requested report is before the General Assembly in document A/43/640. I wish to congratulate the'Secretary-General on this report and commend it to the General Acsembly for noting and adoption. I should like to highlight the fact that the Committee's work supportive of the efforts of the United Nations has hitherto proceeded in three directions, namely: first, inclusion of certain items and topics under consideration by the United Nations in the work progr6mme of the AALCC; secondly, assistance rendered to Governments in their consideration of the agenda items before the Sixth Committee and some of the topics in the humanitarian and economic fields, through the preparation of briefs and studies by the secretariat of the AALCC; and, thirdly, strengthening of the United Nations through promotion of the ratification and implementation of major conventions, as well as through intiatives for the improvement of functional modalities of the General Assembly and other organs inclUding the International Court of Justice. The Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee was established in 1956. It began with a mod&st membership of seven. Today its membership has grown to 40 member States, embracing the two continents of Asia and Africa. The Committee's activities, as envisaged in its statutes, were initially focused on the formulation of legal principles and the provision of advisory services on such issues to member Governments. Some of the topics on which the Committee made its recommendations included: first, the iSGue of the legality of nuclear tests, in 1964; secondly, principles concerning the status and treatment of aliens, (in 1961); and, thirdly, principles concerning the rights of refugees, (in 1966). Recommendations have also made on the question of the immunity of States in respect of. commercial transactions, principles concerning the extradition of offenders taking refuge in the territory of another State, free legal aid, dual nationality, enfurcement of foreign judgements, the service of process and recording of evidence in both civil and criminal matters, relief against double taxation and fiscal evasion, the status of South. West Africa, th6 Law of Treaties, the law relating to international rivers, review of the United Nations Charter. principles of coexistence and the law of outer space. One it~~ in which the Committee's involvement has been both intensive snd extensive is the law of the sea. The Committee has made signifIcant contributions towards projecting and protecting the interests of the developing world in this vital field. I may mention here in this regard the evolution of the exclusive economic zone concept, whose ori9in and elaboration were owed primar.i1y to the work and effort of the AALCC. Apart from its work in the field of international law, the Committee has also taken up for consideration several issues related to international economic and trade law matters. One of the major achievements in this area was the adoption of an integrated scheme for the settlement of disputes. This scheme envisages the development of national arbitration institutions, the establishment of regional arbitration centres and the provision of the services of the specialized arbitration institutions to the countries of the region, TWo regional arbitration centres have so far been established, one in luala Lumpur and the other in Cairo. Negotiations for the establishment of similar centres in Lagos and Tehran are at an advanced stage. Against this backdrop, therefore, I should like to give a brief resume of the current work programme of the Committee. Th. twenty-seventh se.sion of the Committee was held in Singapore In March thil year. ODe of the Itatutory functions of the ComMittee il to ....in. questionl under consideration by the International Law C~~i.sioD. Over the years this has helped to establish a close relationsbip between the two organisations. Tbe Singapore session wal honoured by the participation of the then Chai~aD of the International Law Commission, Mr. Steve McAffrey, who gave a comprehenlive overview of the work currently being done by the International Law COMMilsion. Tbe AALCC remains .el.ed of mo.t of the items on the agenda of the International Law CommiBe1on. The Committee has also been following wi~a keen intere.t the development of international lew relating to the status and tr.atnlent of refugees. Apart from examining the que.tion of State responsibility in this conte.t, the Committee il at present considering a novel concept of "Bc!ety .on.... for the displaced persons within their own country of origin. The fucus of deliberations on this subject has been the issue o~ the status of such aones and their operational framework in th. context of international law on refugee•• I wish to 8el•• this opportunity to congratulate th. Organisation of African Unity (OAU), the United NatioDs, the United Nations Development PrograMme (UMDP) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UMBCR) on their joint, successful efforts to ensure the convening of the International Conference on the Plight of Refugee., Return••• $nd Displaced Persons in Southern Africa, in Oslo, from 22 to 24 August 1988. We in the AALCC commend the Conference's recommendations to the international COMmUDity aimed at alleviating the dire plight of the victtms of the deliberate and calculated destabIization policies of the racist Pretoria regime. (Hr. Ni-AgO. w,cC) In this connection we consider it highly regrettable that the ra~ist regime in Pretoria continues to ignore and ~efy all international appeals to end its AParth.id policy, its destftbilisatioD policies and its illegal occupation of NaMibia. Ne applaud the recent visit to Pretoria of Mr. Javier Perez de Cuellar, our Secretary-General, to discuss with the South African authorities implementation of Security Council resolution 345 (1978), on the independence of Namibia. We very much hope that this time South Africa's promises are genuine, but we remain highly sceptical of the goodwill of that racist regime, in view of past experience. We shall, however, be the first to admit our error of judgement if South Africa finally delivers the goods and releases Namibia. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea is one of the most important achievements in the field of the development of international law. It is to us a matter of disappointment, however, that progress in the ratification of the Convention has so far been slow. We in the Committee, for our part, have been engaged in stimulating and accelerating this process among our member Governments. F~r the last five years the Committee has been pursuing a programme of work which has a two-fold objective. The first is to assist its member States in the preparation and adoption of national legislation on their maritime zones. Within this context the Committee has prepared draft model legiJlation on selected issues, such 8S the regulation of foreign fishing in the exclusive economic zone. The second is to assist the member States in followiog the progress of work in the Peparatory Commission. The Committee has been monitoring the work of the Preparatory Commission and studying the problems related thereto. We are, however, seriously concerned at the slow progress being made in the Preparatory Commission and the attempts by some delegations to turn the clock back regarding their obligation to transfer technology to the enterprise. (Mr. Hjen;a, AALCC) One of the items on the agenda of our Committee that may be of interest to Member States of the United Nations is that OD "Elements of a legal instrument on friendly and good-neighbourly relationo of States of Asia, Africa and the Pa~iflc". In considering this item, the basic objectives of the Committee are, first, to identify universally recognized principles and norms governing friendly and good-neighbourly relations among nations; secondly, to promote unifo~ understanding and interpretation of these principles and, thirdly, to facilitate strict adherence thereto by member States. On the debt crisis, I wish to recall the fact that it is nearly a decade and a half since the United Nations adopted the Declaration on the Establishment of a New International Economic Order and the Programme of Action. Each passing year has shown that efforts to build an equitable economic order have met with unending problems, and as a result the North-South dialogue is at a crossroads. Meanwhile, the problems of developing countries have piled up, to the eatent that they are on the brink of eaplosion owing to the eacruciating eaternol debt. We wish in thiG conteat to underline that the debt crisis of the developing countries is an issue of concern to the entire international community. If the prevailing situation leads to the collapse of the economies of the developing countries, the repercussions will bave devastating effects on the entire inte~national community. Tbe search for solutions, therefore, should be of concern to both the dev~l?ped and the developing countries. It may be ~~ interest to point out here that for the last three years the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee has been considering the issue of the debt burden of developing countries. Deliberations within the Committee have led to the conclusion that the United Nations should, inter alia, convene an international conference on debt. It is a matter of satisfaction, also, that the "Legal aspects of international loan agreements", to the entire membership of the Group of 77. We are also willing to distribute the same study to any other State which has an interest in this debt crisis. The Committee continues to work towards the formulatioD of nO~8 and legal principles relating to international debt relief. We believe that the recent developments on the international scene augur well for the taking of a dGcisive step towards convening the much-delayed InternatioDal Conference on the Indian Ocean. We recognize that the proposed Conference mayor may not achieve the immediate objective of creating a zone of peace in the Indian Ocean. It would, however, provide an impetus towards the evolution of new ideas for improvement of the political and security climate in that region. The Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee is prepared to play an active and constructive role in ensuring the attainmc 1~ of the objectives of the International Conference on the Indian Ocean. Prospects for peace in the Middle East, which is one of our major concerns, have remained and will remain elusive so loog as the Israeli occupation of Palestinian land continues and the right of self-determination of the Palestinian people is denied. The current uprising of the Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied territories further demonstrates the legitimacy of their defiland. In the meantime, Israel must be held responsible under the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949 for ensuring protection for the Palestinians in the occupied territories. During the Singapore s8ssion in Mcrch this year, our Committee decided to take up an item entitled, "Deportation of Palestinians in violation of international law, in particular the Geneva Convention of 1949". We condemn ~nreservedly the policy currently being pursued by Israel of deporting any person considered by it to be a leader of the popUlar uprisings of the masses in the occupied territories. (Mr. Hjenga, MLCC) Apart from being Illegal under the Geneva Convention of 1949 and the 1977 Protocol, such e.pulsions constitute a futile effort to s.tem the tide of destiny. Ho matter how many individuals are expelled, the mass uprisings will never stop until the root cause of the problem is eradicated: that is, until the legitimate right of the Palestinian people to their own distin~t identity within their own sovereign State is a reality. The Israelis should therefore concern themselves mo~e with the termination of their own illegal and illegitimate occupation of the Palestinian territories. The spate of terrorism has put the international peace and security of mankind in peril. The international community has responded to this menace through the enacting of a number ol conventions which obligate States either to extradite or punish the terrorists. The member States of the AALCC have been fUlly supportive of tbesa efforts. However, it is a matter of concern to us that in some quarters attempt8 are ~eing made to blur the distinction between the peoples' struggle for liberation and terrorist activities. We remaia vigilant against such attempts, which are clearly directed against the legit~acy of the struggle for self-determination and independence. (Hr. Hi-ago, AALCC) In this cont.at, therefore, it may be pointed out that the C~ltte8 bas been Jorking on these two interrelated subjects. It i. our cODv!ction that criteria for distinguishing between international terrorism and the struggle for national liberation are not only de.irab1e but also feasible. W. remain confident that our current effort. in this regard will constitute a significant contribution to Uaited Nations and other international efforts in combating the menace of int.rn~tioDal terrorim. Another of the other major concerns eapressed by most of the delegations taking part in the general debate during the past three weeks concerned the question of the dumping of industrial aad hazardous wast.. in large part. of the third world, which is one of the major causes of enviroamenta1 d.gradation. Moet Governments have stressed the grave dangers involved and suggested the strengthening of international co-operation to tbwar.t attempts to dump dangerous toaie wastes in the territories of developinq countries. The AALCC ahare. the.e concerns and is prepared to c~-operate with the organizations of the Unit~d NationG system in any measures being planned. Ke would particularly stra8S the need for positive, concrete steps leading to an international f~amewort convention OD the preservation of the environment and the strengthening of eaistiD9 international legal mechanisms. I wish to emphasize that the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee is prOUd of its record in the co-operation arrangements with the United Nations in our common endeavours. Ke shall spare no effort to enhance this co-operation and to help in the c~eatioD of a more just and equitable world. Before I conclude I wish to info~ the Assembly that the Goveremeat of the Republic of Kenya has kindly offered to host the twenty-eighth Bessien of the 18 February 1989. In this connection, 1 express the hope that the United Nations system will, as in the past, be fully ~epreBented at that session. Tbe PRES!DEHI (interpretation from Spanish)l I call on the represent~tive of Egypt to introduce draft resolution A/43/L.4. Mr. BAPAMl (Egypt)(interpretation from A~c\bic): First, it is a pleasure for me to extend lily congratulations to Mr. NjGll1ga on his election as Secretary of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee. I should also lite to thant him for his statement, in which he described the achievements of the Committ~e in its patient efforts to strengthen the role of the United Nations and its various bodies in all spheres. Egypt's interest in the strengthening of co-operation between the United Nations and the Consultative Committee and in the prospects for future co-operation results from our firm conviction of the need to expand the role of international ~aw in all its aspects so as to improve the incernational atmosphere, guarantee the establishment of just ond equitable international relations in the service of nations and build a better world for future generations. The United Nations expr9ssed its gratitude and thants for the constructive role of the Consultative Committee when it decided, at its thirty-fifth session, to accord it the permanent observer status and to invite it to participate as an observer in the sessions and wort of the General AssemblYI and when it decided. at its thirty-sixth session, to include this item on th" agenda of the General Assembly, with tho aim of strengthening the Committee's important role in supporting United Nations activities at the international and interreg!o~al levels. The Consultative Committee has p~oved that it deserves the confidence of the international community by increasing its efforts and activities in connection with the progr~ssive development and codification of international law, and in the economic and humanitarian spheres. It has also participated effectively in United Nations conferences, and submitted several studies in areas of vital interest to the United Nations. We havo noted with satisfaction the participation of several judges of the International Court of Justice, Presidents of the International ~aw Commission and representatives of specialised agencies in meetings of the Committ~e. This demonstrates tb~ shared interest in the problems and questions under cunsideration. Given its suppOrtive role with ~eg&rd to United Nations activities in the sphere of internfttional law, the Consultative C~~ittee has included in its programme of ~'ort such questions at present being cODsidered by the International Law Commission as the use of internatioDal waterways, for purposes other than navigation, and the jurisdictional immunities of States and their property. The Committee is now studying the legal aspects of these two questions to facilitate the work of the International Law Commission in this sphere. The Committee collaborates closely with the United Nations Commission OD International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) in helping member States to codify norms of international trade law and encourage members to accede to the international conventions of UNICTRAL. The Consultative Committee is praparing a legal guide on joiat industrial projects on the lines of that prepared by UNICITRAL. In the sphere of international economic co-operation for development, the Consultative Committee devised I formula for the peaceful settlement of dispute8 reSUlting from economic and trade relations and decided to set up for this purpose two regional centres for international commercial arbitration in Cairo and Kuala Lumpur. These two centres are now working very competently, with the main aim of assisting in the application of UNCITRAL ~rbitration system. In the last few years the Consultative Committee has expanded the base of its activities in several fields of vital interest to the international community by currying out studie. on .uch topical international rrobl... aa the foreign debt p~Obl.. of the developing cOUDtrie.~ the refug.. probl.. and the probleM Qf illicit drug trafficking. AA addition. it i. at pre.ent preparing a .tudy on tho i ••ue of the deportation of Pale.tlnianD beyond their frontierR, in violation of international la~,~B particular the Geneva Convention of 1949, It i. preparing of people. for independence. I cannot revie. here all the activities of the Con~ult&tive Co.Mltt.e snd it. pionoering role in enhancing the effectivene•• of the United RatioDI, ComMittee hos gained considerable legal and political experience. This has allowed it to strengthen its impact on the internatloaal scene and prove its effectiveness in all areas of inte~est to the internatioD~l community. We hope that the United Bations and its specialised agencies w1ll mate use of this e.perienc0 by strengthening their co-operation with the Consultative Committee and benefiting from the specialised studi.s it has prepared. Before concluding my statement, I wish to present draft resolution A/43/L.4, entitled "Co-operation betw&en the United Bations and the Asian-African Legal Consultative Coamitte.". I ~o 80 on b~half of the co-sponsors: China, Cyprus, Egypt, ShaDa, India, Indonesia, the Islamic Republic of Iran" Iraq, Jemaica, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Nepal, Bew Zealand, RomBD!a, Sudan, Thailand and the United Republic of Tanllania. This draft resolution, which is similar to that introduced on discussion of this agenda item, refers in the operative paragraphs to the efforts of the Consultative Committee to strengthen the role of the United Nations and its various organs, inclUding the International Court of Justice, through programmes and initiative. that it unaertak.s. In addition, the General Assembly noted with satisfaction the progress achieved towards enhancing co-operation between the United Nations and the Consultative Committee. Finally, the draft resolution requests the Secretary-General to submit to the General Assembly at its forty-fifth BeBslon a report on co-operation between the United Nations and the Consultative Committee. Hr. IAGANI (Japan): I Bhould like first of all to e.press my delegation'. sincere congratulations to Mr. Frant Bjenqa on his electicn as the nev Secretary-General of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee. Given the wealth of his ezperlence and knowledge in Asian and African a8 .ell aa United Nations affairs, we are confident that the Committee will make even further progress as a truly important legal body connecting countries of two major continents. At the same time, I wish to pay a special tribute to Mr. Sen, who has served with true distinction as the Committee's Secretary-General ever since its creation. Indeed, the steady development of the Committee in the past three decades is in large part traceable to his unflagging enthusiasm and outstanding leadership, which have been a source of encouragement to each of the Committee's members. As one of its founding members, Japan attaches great importance to the work of the C~itte8. The Committee was established in 1956 as a forum for the free exchange of views and the discussion of common legal problems among ezports from Asian and African countries having diverse political, economic and social systems. Since then, the Committee has become a major forum for Asian-African co-operation in legal matters. But it is not only the countries of Asia and Africa that have benefited from the activities of the Committee. An increasing number of GoverDa~Dts from outside the Asian-African region have demonstrated their interest in its work by attending the annual sessions of tile Committee as observers. Moreover, through its active co-operation with various organs and conferences of the United Nations, the Committee has strenQthened its supportive role regarding the work of the United Nations in wider areas. In particular, it has developed a close relationship over the years with such United Nations bodies as the International Law Commission, the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law, the Economic and Social Council, and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Special mention should also ba made of the ~portant recommendatioDs s~nltted to the Assembly in 1986 with a view to improving the functioning of the General Assembly and rationalising its procedures. As one of the dolegations that were actively engaged in the drafting of those recommendatioDs, we are gratified that they were widely supported in the Assembly and the Si.ath Committee. We are convinced that tha co-operative relations between the Committee and this world Organisation, which have now become a ragular feature, will greatly benefit not only the countries of Asia and Africa, but also countries in other regions. My delegation will continue to eatend its full support to the activities of the Committee and to its even closer co-operation with the United Nations. Mr. ZANANI (Islamic Republic of Iran): I should like to begin my statement by thenking the Secretariat for preparinq a report on co-operation between the United Nations and the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee (A/43/640), which we have found to be comprehensive and fruitful. We, the Asian and African countries, in our eagerness to participate actively in the progressive development and codification process of international law, e8tabli~hed the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee in 1956 for the e.change of views and info~ation on legal matters of common concern to the two regions. Therefore, the United Nations and the Asian-African Legal Consultative committee have common objectives with respect to encouraging the progressive development of international law ana its codification. It was this common objective that led to the commencement of co-operation between the AALCC and the United Nations immediately after the establishment of the AALCC. ~at c~-operation, which continues to this day, may be divided into two periods. The first includes the years before 1981, when the co-operation between the two forums, although it had not been institutionalised, was fruitful and constructive. For example, the AALCC undertook a systematic and permanent examination of the work of the International Law Commission from Asian and African perspectives, and its vi6ws and recommendations have been reflected directly or indirectly, in the work of that body. Its evaluation of, and recommendations on, a draft convention on diplomatic immunities and privileges are another example of its active participation in the process of codifying international law. The second period of co-operation between the AALCC and the United Nations started in 1981, when the arrangements were institutionalized and the AALCC was accorded permanent-observer status by General Assembly resolution 36/38. Since then, the co-operation has been consolidated, and the AALCC has included the following subjects in its programme of projects and studies: law of the sea, international protection of rafugees, international Gconomic co-operation, and, more important, annual preparation of notes and comments on items on the agenda of the aenoral Assembly likely to be allocated to the Sixth Committee. These notes are useful to representatives Qf States members of the AALCC in their active participation in the Sixth Committee. The Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee, at its twenty-seventh session, which was held in Singapore in March 1908, elected, as its Secretary-General, an experienced and skilled lawyer, who assumed duty a few months ago. We hope that under the leadenhip of Mr. Njeng8, who is a member of the Intetrnational Law Commis.ion, the AALCC will grow further and that co-operation between !t and the United Natione in fulfilling subparagraph (a) of paragraph 1 of Article 13 of the Charter - "prOflloting international co-operation ••• and encouraging the progressive developnsent of international law and its codification" wUl be further con80lidatGd. This is why my delegation has become one of the sponsors of the draft resolution on co-operation between the United Nations and the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee, and we hope that this resolution will be adopted by consensuB. Mr. GUPTA (India). My delegation is gratefUl to the Secretary-General for his excellent report on co-operation between the United Nations and the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee (AALCC). The AALCC was established in 1956 by seven Asian States - Burma, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Japan, Sri Lanka and Syria - to serve as an advisory body of legsl exrtrtc for consultation Gnd co-operation between its member Governments in the field of Int~rnstional law and economic relations, partiCUlarly the matters under consideration by the United Nations and its various organs and agencies. Forty States are DOW members to the AALCC. At its thirty-fifth session the General Assembly accorded permanent-observer status to the AALCC. At its forty-first 88ssioD the General Assemby, by its resolution 41/5 extended congratulations to the AALCC, on its 30th anniversary, for its highly commendable work in pr~~~ting inter-regional and international co-operation supportive of the efforts of the United NatioDs. The Assembly also noted with appreciation the continuing efforts of the Committee towards strengthening the ro!~ of the United Notions and its various organs through programmes and initiativos undertaken, and the commendable progress achieved during the past five years towards enhancing co-operation between the two organizations in wider areas. Following the series of consultations and meetings between the officials of the United Nations and the Secretary-General of the AALCC, a progrsmme of co-operation was drawn up which identified nine specific areasa the co-operative framework; representation at m~etings and conferences; Sixth Committee matters; law-of-the-sea matters; refugee question; efforts towards st~engthening the role of the United Natiom,s through rationalization of functional modalities; the illicit traffic in narcotic drugs; international economic co-ope~ation for development and zones of peace; and international co-operation. The co-operative framework initiated, and subsequently further developed, has now become a regular feature. The AALCC has also undertaken important initiatives with a view to strengthening the role of the United Nations. Its activities in these areas have not been confined to its own relationship with this Organization; they have involved all interested member States. Furthermore, the areas of co-operation have been enlarged to cover matters in the economic and humanitarian fields, in addition to progressive development and codification of international 10. The co-operation between the AALCC and the United Nations and its various orgaos and agencies has over the years, covered extensive fields, inclUding law, economic relations, the environment, the problem of refugees, and ocean resources. The work of the Sixth Committee of the General Assembly is of sp~cial interest to the AALCC. whose secretariat prepared notos on matters under consideration, in order to assist member States in their participation. The law of the sea is on area in which the AALCC's contribution, during the Third United Nations ConfGrence on t~e Lew of the Sea, is widely known and acknowledged. In the field of international trade law, the Committee maintains close collaboration with the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL). Since 1964, it has been engaged in the study of refugee law and problems of co-operation with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNBCR), cUlminating in the adoption of the Bangkok Principles, followed by oddendums thereto, at its annual sessions. (Mr. Gupto. IndiA) We note with great appreciation the work done by the AALCC Dnd encourage its activities. We note that the existing areas of co-operation between the United Nations and the AALCC will be not only maintained but also further strengthened and extended in tangible way•• Hr. KIRseR (Canada) On behalf of the delegations of Australia, Canada and Hew Zealand I am pleased to have this opportunity to address the General Assembly on this item, Co-operation between the United Nations and the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee. Our delegatioDs wish first of all to associate ourselves with the congratulations extended by previous speakers to Mr. Frank X. Njenga on his election as the new Secretary-General of the Committee. Mr. Njenga.'s 10Dg-standing contribution to the development of iQternational law is well known to members of this Assembly and it augurs well for th~ future work of the Committee. We wish also to pay a tribute to Dr. Sen for the extremely valuable work he has accomplished for the Committee since its establishment. We also express our appreciation to the Secretary-Gen.ral for his report on co-operation between the two organizations (A/43/640). Our three countries have followed the work of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee (AALCC) for a number of years. We have again this year been very much impressed by the degree and the quality of the close relationship between the United Nations and the Committee, as is clearly shown in the report. in this regard we welcome the ongoing efforts of the AALCC to strengthen the role of the United Nations and its various organs, inclUding the International Court of Justice, through the rationalization of their functions. We would like to emphasize that the rationalisation process that is DOW well under way hao been largely influenced by the valuable labours of the AALCC. As will be recalled, the Committee recommended, in a 1986 report to the General As.embly on reform, ways and (Mr. Gupta, India) ~eaae of improvinq the functioning of the United Nations. OD this particular subject I would refer to the statement made by the representative of Canada on 17 October 1986 on behalf of a number of delegations which were involved at that time in consultations on matters of procedural reforam in th& United Nations. In the same vein, we find particularly useful the 8Gsistance rendered by the committee to its member Gove~Dments for their active participation not only in the wort of the General Assembly but also in the wort of the Slzth Committee. Such assistance fosters a better quality of debate in thosa forumH. Since its inception in 1956 the Committee has focused its co-operation with the United Nations mainly on actively promoting the ~ccession of its member Governments to various international instruments. We are glad that, as is indicated in the Secretary-General's report, that co-operation is DO~ extend~d to legal matters in the economic and humanitarian fields. Aside from promoting, for example, the ratification and implementation of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Soa, the Committee now participates in the work of the Economic and Social Council, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law, the International Law Commission and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization. That is a most welcome development. In the 1ield of humanitarian law we have noted with interest the ongoing studies being conducted by the AALCC on the question of State responsibility regarding refugees and on the concept of safety zones for displaced persons in the country of origin. The foregoing are examples of the important supportive role of the AALCC in verioU8 areas of international law. As has already been pointed out by other delegations, the wort of the Committee is of considerable benefit not only for countries of Asia aud Africa but also for countries of other regions, and we would likft to ~mphasi~e that point. We hope that the AALCC will pursue its wort in close co-operation ;~~b the United Nations and we assure the Committee of our continuiu9 support in that area, as 13 reflected in the decision of our three countries to co-sponGor draft resolution A/43/L.4. Mr. ZEPQ& (Greece) (interpretation from French): I have the honour to speak on behalf of the 12 States membe~s of the European Community. The TWelve have always apprec.lated the ~uality of the work of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee (AALCC) and in particular the work it has already dona to strengthen the role of the United Nations and its principal bodies. The TWelve would lite to reiterate their appreciation of the important contribution made by Mr. Sen in carrying out his functions as Secretary-General of the Committee. We would like also warmly to congratulate the Dew Secretary-General, Mr. Frank X. Bjenga, and to wish him all success in his new post. We beard with great interest the statement ho made and have taken du~ note of the activities Which are under ~ay and those planned by the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee. It goes without saying that we attach great importance to questions dealing with the work of the Sizth Committee, questions which the AALCC is once again considering 4urinq the present session of the General Assembly. The TWelve have already had the opportunity in the past of supporting several initiatives of the AALCC, in particular those dealing with the rationalization of the procedures of the General Assembly. They especially welcome the fruitful co-operation which has ezisted for a D'Jmber of years between the AALCC and the United Nations and hope that such co-operation will become even closer and more effeetive in the years to come. (Mr. Kirsch. Canada) Mr. SKQTNlKOV (Union of Soviet Socialist Republics) (interpretation from Russian): In the Soviet Union we note with satisfaction the ~rowth of the activity of the countries of Asia and Africa in world affairs, their aspirations to independence and to constructive interaction on the hie ~er~l, regional and ~lobal levels. A unique and important contribution in the search for solutions to key problems of our day and ways to strengthen the role of international law is being made by the Asian-Afri'aD Legal Consultative Committee. ~/9r the more than 30 years of its existence, the Committe~ has ~ecome an authoritativv intergovernmental organ. Co-operation between it and the United Nations is doubtless a mutually enriching source of idea~ and experience. The re~ort of the Secret~ry-General on this question, which briefly lists the major areas of work of the Committee and areas of interaction with the United Nations, and also the statement made today by the Secretary-General of the Committee, reaffirm in our view the growing interdependence of universal, regional and national interests and a growing awareness of the integral unity of the world in which we live. We also see here a reflection of the philosophy and traditions of the Committee, which was established on the initiative of the Prime Minister .of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, after the Bandung Conference of 1955. The report of the Secretary-General most clearly illustrates the growing rol~ of international law in the regulation of the most varied areas of international relations. This is clear from the range of issues considered by the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee~ zones of peac~ and international co-operation, international economic co-operation for develcpmant, the question of refugees, the struggle with the illicit drug trade, the law of the sea and many other relevant problems, inclUding, of course, questions relating to the worh of the Sixth Committee of the General Assembly. We .consider dialogue with the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee as part of broad international discussion on the place and role of international law in today's world and on the need for radically enhancing its role for building a non-nuclear and non-violent world. Reaffirmatt~n of the primacy of international law in inter-State relations is a process which is absolutely necessary if mankind is to make progr&ss. We welcome the contribution of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee to resolving this problem and wish it all success in its noble ~ndeavours. Hr. KASINA (Kenya): Close co-operation has evolved between the United Nations and the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee (AALCC) since the Committee's foundin~ in 1956. The co-operation, 1~ich has continued to grow over the years, was given a formal basis in 1980 when the Committee was granted permanent observer status in the United Nations; indeed, it was with the intention of further strengthening those ties that. on the occasion of the.corMnemoration of the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Committee. the General Assembly adopted its resolution 36/38 of 1981. in which. inter alia. it ttrequests the Secretary-General to carry out consultatioDs with the Secretary-General of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee It also decided to include in the agenda of the General Assembly the item ttCo-operation between the United Nations and the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committeett - An item which since then has appeared annually On the General AS6embly's agenda. The importance of the annual inclusion of this item in the agenda each year cannot be over-emphasized. Suffice it to say that it symbolizes both the close co-oper~tion between the two organizations and the recognition of the importance of the Committee's work. The areas of co-operation between the United Nations and the tt. Committee have been vast and varied, covering international law, the debt c~lsis6 refugee problems, the environment, ocean resources and outer space, to nema but a few. 7he Committee's mandate has made it both possible and necessary to establish and develop working relations with organs and bodies of the United Nations other than the ~eneral Assombly. The Committee has in this way had occasion to work with the InternationAl Law Commission r the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL), the Unitad Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the Preparatory Committee on the International Sea-Bed Authority and the Law of tha Sea Tribunal. Of specific interest to the Committee has bean the work of the Sixth Committee of the General Assembly. The contributions of the AALCC in support of the work of the Sixth Committee are worth Doting. In addition, the Committee has been involved in the work of the International Law Commission, e8pecially in connection with the Conference on Diplomatic Relations, the Conference on the Law of Treaties and the Conference on the Succession of States. A particularly valued cont~ibution was made by the Committee in r6qard to the Law of the Saa. Aftar the adoption of the 1982 Convention on the Law of the Se8, the Committee worked towards assisting its member States in its implementation, as regards their rights under the Convention and the benefits that accrue under it. Collaboration between the Committee and UNCITRAL has long been fruitful6 as evidenced, for example, by the establishment, under the auspices of the AALCC, of centres of arbitration in Ruala Ll~pur, Cairo and Lagos, where the rules of arbitration of UNCITRAL are used. The Committee has also been supportive of the work of UNCITRAL in other areas, in partiCUlar in regard to the draft convention on (Mr. los1no« Kegyo) the international sale of goods and the CArriage of goods by sea, and legal guidance on the dra~ing up of contracts for the construction of industrial works. In addition to the consultations that have been routinely conducted on matters of common interest between the Committee and the competent organs and officas of the United Natio~s, the Committee has also undertaken initiatives with a view to strengthening the role of the United Nations. In conclusion, I should like to place on record my delegation's satisfaction with the Committee's wort. In this regard, the Government of the Republic of Kenya will be hosting the 1989 session of the Committee in Nairobi from 13 to 18 February 1989. I should also lite to extend to the Secretary-General of AALCC our warmest congrat~18t;~ns on his election. We ore confident that, with his well-known skills, the excellent work being done by the Committee will continue. My delegation hopes that the mutually advantageous no-operation that exists between the United Nations and the Committee will continue to grow. (Mr. Kasinae Kenya) a decision on draft resolution A/43/L.4. May I take it that the General Assembly adopts that draft resolution? Draft resolution A/43/L.4 was adopted (resolution 43/1). The PRESIDt61 (interpretation from Spanish): I call on the representative of Israel, who wishes to explain his position. Mr. NISSIM-ISSACUAROFF (Israal): Though my delegation did not request a recorded vote on draft resolution A/43/L.4, we would like to record our objection t.o paragraph 1 of that resolution, and in particular to paragraphs 24 and 25 of the Secretary-General's report (A/43/640). 1be PRESIDENT (interpretation from Spanish): This concludes our consideration of agenda item 20.

In connection with this item, the Assembly has before it a draft resolution (A/43/L.2). I call upon the Pe~anent Observer of the Organization of the Islamic Conference, in accordance to General Assembly resolution 3369 (XXX). of la October 1975. Mr. AUSAY (Organization of the Islamic Conference): It is indeed a privilege for me to address the General Assembly on a matter of particular significance to the Organization of the Islamic Conference and to the United Nations. namely co-operation between the United Nations and the Organization of the Islamic Conference. Allow me to begin, Sir, by congratulating you on your election to the high office of the presidency of the General Assembly. Your election is a tribute to your personal qualities, to your vast experience and stilled leadership and to your great country. I should also like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Florin, who served with distinction as President at the Assembly during the course of the difficult but none the less fruitful forty-second session. I also avail myself of this opportunity to express our ~r~~ appreciation to the Secretary-General, Mr. Jav!er Perez de Cuellar, for his invaluable work at the head of this Organization. I should like to associate myself with the nwnerous expresslons of appreciation and gratitude that have been addressed in this forum to the Secretary-General for his devotion to the cause of humanity and peace and for his untiring efforts to promote a climate of international peace, security and co-operation. His principles and determination, embellished by personal chenm and able leadership, have been instrumental in approaching and achieving those recent political successes that seemed so distant only a little while 8g0. Since its inception, the Organization of the Islamic Conference has been fully dedicated to the realization of the objectives and principles of the United Nations Charter. The charter of the Organization of the Islamic Conlerence underlines the determination of its membership of 46 States to make effective contributions towards the enrichment of mankind and the achievement of progress, freedom and justic~ all over the world by promoting global peace and security. The Organization of the Islamic Conference derives its inspiration from the eternal, noble mesGage of Islam. Its establishment was predicated on the principles of peace and harmony, tolerance, equality and justice for all. All members of the Organization of the Islamic Conference are also Members of the United Nations. It is natural, therefore, that the two organizations should work closely to promote the ideals, principles and objectives that they share. Co-operation bet~een the two organizations received an important boost in 1975, when the O~ganization of the Islamic Conference was granted observer status by the United Nations. By the late 19708 it was felt that the ever increasing interaction of the two organizations ahould be given an institutional framewort whereby the secretariats and the specialized agencies, organs and bodies of the two organizations could hold regUlar consultations to review their ongoing work and to examine the possibilities uf expanding and enlarging the!r areas of co-operation. It was in this context that the third general meeting of representatives of the secretariats of the United Nations system and of the secretariat of the Organization of the Islamic Conference was held in Geneva from 4 to 6 July 1988. As the report of the Secretary-General (A/43/498/Add.l) indicates, the consultation was highly successful. The meeting reviewed the progress made and put forward recommendations regarding seven priority areas for strengthening co-operation, namely: food and agriCUlture, development of science and technology, investment mechanisms and joint ventures, education and eradication of illiteracy, assistance to refugees, technical co-operation and development of trade. The meeting noted with satisfaction the progress achieved in these seven designated priority areas of co-operation, given the constraints on rosources, partiCUlarly the financial resources, which have affected the capacity of both organizations. The meeting decided to continue the bilateral and multilateral co-operation between the two systems, and agreed upon various conclusions and recommendations in the areas referred to. Since the adoption of General Assembly resolution 35/36, which was the first resolution on co-operation between the United Nations and the Organization of the Islamic Conference, a number of co-operation agreements have been signed by our organization with specialized agencies and other bodies of the United Nations system, such as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organ~zation, the World Health Organization, the United Nations Children's Fund, the Office of the Unitea Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the United Nations Fund for PopUlation Activities, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, and the bodies concerned with technical co-operation for development. Since its inception, the Organization of the Islamic Conference has aaopted numerous resolutions and declarations, both at the summit level and at the level of the conference of foreign ministers, addressing the issues that ct~front the Islamic world, as well as important global issues relating, inter alia, ~o international peace and security, human rights and social and economic issues, including the establishment of the new international economic order. On the question of Palestine and the explosive situation in the Middle Eost, the Organisation of the Islamic Conference reeffinms that a just and lasting peace in the Middle East cannot be established without the withdrawal of Israel from all the occupied Arab and Palestinian territories, inclUding the Holy City of Al Quds Al Sharif, end the restoration of the inalienable national rights of the Palestinian people, including their right to return, to self-dete~inationand to the establishment of an independent Palestinian State with the Holy City of Jerusalem as its capital. The Or.ganlzation of the Islamic Conference has expressed its full support for the national uprising of the Palestinian people in occupied Palestinian territories, and fully supports the early convenin9 of the international peace conference on the Middle East, as ~alled for by the United Nations General Assembly in its resolution 38/58 C, undar the auspices of the United Nations and with the participation on an equal footing of all parties directly concerned, including the Palestine Liberation Organi~ation, the sole and legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. The OrgAnization of the Islamic Conference welcomes the signing of the Geneva Accords as a step towards the comprehensive settlement of the problem of Afghanistan and calls for the establishment of a broad-based Government acceptable to the people of Afghanistan. This would usher in an era of peace and enable the AfghAn refugees to return to their homes in safety and honour. The Organisation of the Islamic Conference ezpresses its relief and satisfaction at the cessation of the conflict between Iran and Iraq and hopes thnt the negotiations being cond~cted by the two sides, uDder the auspices of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, on the full implementation of Security Council resolution 598 (1987) and on a comprehensive and just settlement will be succeseful. The fruitful co-operation between the Secretaries-Ge~eralof the United Nations and the Organization of the Islamic Conference, and the most commendable wort done by the high-level Islamic peace Committee to bring an end to this sad chapter, will always be cherished by the membership of the Organization of the Islamic Conference. The Organization of the Islamic Conference stands firmly behind the black people of South Africa and Namibia in their just and legitimate struggle against the abhorrent policy of APArtheid of the South African regime. The Organization of the Islamic Conference condemns the illegol occupation of .amibia by the Pretorie regime and demands the immediate implementation of Security Council resolutions 385 (1976) and 435 (1978), which constitute the only acceptable basis for the traDsition of Namibia to independence. The Organization of the Islamic Conference alDO stands firmly behind increased assistance to the countries of Africa for the implementation of the Programme of Action adopted by the special session of the United Nations Guneral Assembly on the critical economic situation in Africa. On the international economic situation, the Organization of the Islamic Conference supports luter alia the proposal which calls for the waiver of interest due on all loans. and reconsideration by the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank of their stringent conditions for development assistance for the development of human resources in developing countries and for the ezpansion of scientific and technical assistance, including the transfer of technology from the North to the South. Draft resolution A/43/L.2, now before the Assembly, which will be fo~ally introduced by the Ambassador and Permanvnt Representative of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, tha representative of the current Chairman of the Organization of the I81amic Conference, reflects the firm determination of both our organizations to collaborate in various political, economic and social fields and to continue to enhance the e.isting co-operation between the two organizations. I am confident that the draft resolution will have the unanimous approval of membars of the Assembly.

I call on the representative of Jordan to introduce draft resolution A/43/L.2. Hr. SALAB (Jordan) (interpretation from Arabic): It gives me much pleasure to introduce, on behalf of all member States of the Organization of the Islamic Conference, draft resolution A/43/L.2, dated 7 October 1988, which is entitled "Co-operation between the United Nations and the Organization of the Islamic Confereflce". T.he Organization of the Islamic Conference is based on the glorious humanitarian principles enshrined in the tolerant mes3age of Islam. These include the principles of co-operation, equality, justice and the pursuit of peace. The Organization of the Islamic Conf3rence addresses many issues of concern to the Islamic wurld, which are thus by definition international issues of concern to all mankind. These are, among other things, the issues of security, peace, progress and development in various spheres. All member States of the Organization of the Islamic Conference are also Members of the United Nations. Thus it is only logical that constructive co-operation be maintained between the two organizations, as such co-operation is beneficial to both and, indeed, to the entire world. Furthermore, the Charter of the United Nations encourages the activities in the context of regional co-operation to promote the purposes and principles of the United Nations. The Organization of the Islamic Conference recognizes the importance and significance of the co-operation that exists between the Organization of the Islamic Conference and the United Nations, and seeks to enhance and expand it. Draft resolution A/43/L.2 is an illustration of this orientation on the part of the Organization of the Islamic Conference. The text of the draft resolution is in large measure similar to texts of resolutions recently adopted by the General Assembly on this item. In operative paragraph 1 the General Assembly takes note of the report of the Secretary-General (A/43/498 and Add. 1). In operative paragraph 2 the General Assembly approves the conclusions and recommendations of the third general meeting between representatives of the secretariats of the United Nations and other organizations of the United Nations system and the secretariat of the Organization of the Islamic Conference, which was held in Geneva between 4 and 6 July 1908. These recommendations are contained in paragraphs 21 to 87 of A/43/498/Add. 1. In operative paragraph 3 the General Assembly notes with satisfaction the active participation of the Organization of the Islamic Conference in the work of the United Nations towards the realization of the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. In operative para9~aph 4 the Assembly requests the United Nations and the Organization of the Islamic Conference to continue co-operation in their common search for solutions to global problems. In operative paragraph 5 the General Assembly encourages the spe~ialized agencies and other organizations of the United Nations system to co~tinue to e.pand their co-operation with the Organization of the Islamic Conference. In operative paragraphs 6, 7, 8 and 9 the Assembly requests the Secretary-General to strengthen co-operation and co-ordination between the United Nations and other organizations of the United Nations system and the Organization of the Islamic Conference; e.presses its appreciation of the efforts of the Secretary-General in the promotion of co-operation between the two organizations; and requests the Secretary-General to report to the General Assembly at its forty-fourth session on the state of co-operation. In operativo paragraph 7, the General Assembly recommends that a co-ordination meeting of the focal points of the lead agencies of the United Nations and the Organization of the Islamic Conference should be organized during 1989 at a time and place to be dete~ined through consultations with the organizations concerned. In the tenth operative paragraph the Assembly decides to include this item in the provisional agenda of its forty-fourth session. On behalf of all member States of the Organization of the Islamic Conference. I call upon all members of the General Assembly to support draft resolution A/43/L.2, which envisages t~e promotion of co-operation between the two organizations with a vie" to achieving their lofty goals. We hope that the draft resolution will be adopted without a vote. ]be PRESIDENT (interpretation from Spanish): May I take it that the General Assembly adopts draft resolution A/43/L.2? Draft resolution A/43/L.2 was adopted (resolution 43/2). 1be PRESIDENT. (intepretation from Spanish): I now call on the representative of Israel. Mr. HISSIM-ISSACUARQfF (Israel): Although my delegation did not request a recorded vote on draft resolution A/43/L.2, we should like to record our reservations regarding the wording of operative paragraph 2.

We have now concluded cODsideration of agenda item 24. CO-OPERATICB BE'lWEEH THE UNITED NATIClfS AND THE LEAGUE or ARAB STATES (a) REPORT OF THE SECRETARY-GENERAL ~A/43/509 and Add.!) (b) DRAFT RESOLUTICIf (A/43/L.7)

In this connection, the Assembly has before it a draft resolution (A/43/L.7). I call first on the Deputy Permanent Observer for the League of Arab States, in accordance with General Assembly resolution 477 (V), of 1 November 1950, Hr. MAUSQURI (League of Arab States) (interpretation from Arabic): At the outset, Sir, I should like to congrat~late you on behal~ of the League of Arab States on your election to the presidency of the General Assembly at this historic time, when we see this Organization's effectiveness and credibility being strengthened and its Members rededicating themselves to the principles set out in the Charter. Your election to that important post is a tribute by the international community to your qualities and wisdom and to Argentina's international status. I should like also to express appreciation of the close relations between Argentina and all Arab countries. I take this opportunity, on behalf of the League of Arab States, to congratulate Mr. Peter Florin on his excellent guidance of the wort of the General Assembly at its forty-second session. I mttst also pay a tribute to the Secretary-General, Mr. Javier Perez de Cuellar, and convey to him the appreciation of the League of Arab States for his eff.orts in carrying out his duties and fulfilling his responsibilities, especially with regard to co-operation between the world Organisation and the League of Arab States, and in exerting his good offices on behalf of peace throughout the world. Co-operation between the secretariat of the League of Arab States and the United Nations goes back a long way - indeed, to the beginning of the establishment of the two organizations. The charter of each organization is based on such noble purposes and principles as non-intervention in the internal affairs of other States, co-operation in ensuring (or all men a prosperous future in which they can enjoy justice and fr.eedom in their own country, and the establishment of a stable, peaceful society conducive to international peace and security, which is the ultimate goal of both organisations. The League of Arab Stat~s works through its member States to strengthen the process of consultation and understanding between the two organizations and their different bodies. It is on this basis that this item has been included in the General Assembly's agenda for many y'~~rs, so that certain rules guiding this co-operation may be established. The Secretary-General'g report (A/43/509 and Add.l) clarifies the scope of this co-operation during the past five years and the results achieved. It also stresses the importance of continuing and strenythening this co-oparation in the futura. The League of Arab States looks forward to the realization of the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter. This stems from our belief in the principles upon which this Or~anization is based and the need for respect for its resolutions and the fulfilment by its Member States of the commitments and responsibilities emanating from rRembership of the Organization, the first of which is compliance with its reSOlutions. Only thus can they do their duty to the Organization and fulfil the collective responsibility to ensure the collective security that is our aim. The League of Arab States, through its various bodies and especially On the basis of the various Arab summits, strives to find wayq and means of establishing peace in the Middle East. The Arab summit at Fez, Mo,~~co, in 1982 laid down clear guidelines for the establishment o~peace in the Middle East region. The other summits, at ~.jan in 1987 and in Al~eria in 1988, reaffirmed the commitment of all Arab States to the resolutions adopted at the Fez summlt on peace in the Middle East and the need to implement these principles. The resolutions adopted at the Arab summits and those adopted by the General Assembly call for the speedy convening of a conference on peace in the Middle East as the appropriate means of achieving a just and lasting peace settlement in the region, including a solution of the Palestinian question and restoration of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people. The uprising of the Arab people in Palestine, which has entered its eleventh month, prove~ beyond any doubt that the Palestinian people reject the continued Israeli occupation and call for the restoration of their full rights, especially the right to self-detenmination and to an independent State. This uprising should be an object lesson that impels all States, particularly the permanent members of the Security Council, to hasten to fulfil their responsibilities and come to the help of the Secretary-General in his efforts to bring about the convening of an international conference on peace in the Middle East, under the auspices of the United Nations and with the participation of the five permanent members of the Security Council and all the parties to the Arab-Israeli dispute including the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), the sole, legitimate representative of the Palestinian people, on a footing of equality. The positive results of international detente which the world has now begun to witnes, as reflected in the current efforts to find peaceful solutions to the regional conflicts, should embrace the Middle East. While we laud the energetic attempts by the permanent members of the Security Council, in conjunction with the Secretary-General, to bring about the implementation of Security Council resolution 598 (1987), we hope that the same will be done to ensure implementation of the General Assembly's resolutions calling for the restoration of the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and demanding that Israel implement Security Council resolutions calling for the withdrawal of its forces from all Lebanese territory and the Arab Syrian Golan. The League of Arab States reaffirms its complete and total co-operation with the United Nations in all spheres and its continued desire to engage in intensive consultations in the search for ways and means to support and ensure the implementation of all the Organization's resolutions, whether on general disanmament, the peaceful settlement of disputes, the ending of DPartbeid, decolonization, the legitimacy of the right to self-determination, or the basic human rights of all peop].es and countries, as well as resolutions pertaining to development, the protection of the environment and humanitarian aid, among other things. In the Arab League we hove striven and continue to strive for the establishment of the ground rules of joint Arab economic development, taking into account the fact that we should plan for development, progress and stability within the framework of 8 long-te~ programme to raise the standard of living of our citizeas and ensure their welfare, freedom and dignity. It was with this aim in view that the strategy for joint Arab economic development was formulated and adopted at the Arab summit meeting held in Amman in 1983. Various specialized Arab agencies and organizations have become active in the implementation of this plan, in co-operation with each other and with the United Nations and its specialized agencies. The report of the Secretary-General (A/43/509 and Add.I) highlights this co-operation and the various stages that have been completed in the political, social and economic sectors. In this respect, we would like to express our appreciation of the technical co-operation extended by the United Nations system to our Arab specialized agencies and organizations. We also reaffirm our resolve to avail ourselv~s of all the available Arab expertise in the implementation of these projects in the Arab world. We urge the international specialized agencies to co-operate further with the Arab agencies in order to help in the completion of development projects in the Arab world, especially those that were adopted, together with a number of recommendations, in Tunis in 1983 and in Geneva in 1988. representative of Democratic Yemen, who will introduce draft resolution A/43/L.7. ~ AL-ALFI (Democratic Yemen) (interpretation from Arabic): On behalf of the delegation of my country, which has the honour of presiding over the Arab Group this month, and of the other Arab countries sponsors of the draft resolution on co-operation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States, I have pleasure in submitting to the General Assembly draft resolution A/43/L.7. The aim of this draft resolution is to encourage a spirit of co-operation and lay the foundations for joint action by the United Nations and the League of Arab States, in keeping with the resolutions adopted by the Arab summits and with the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and the charter of the League of Arab States. This draft resolution, in spirit and in content, attempts to strengthen relations with the United Nations in all areas, in particular the political, economic and social spheres, while respecting the primary obligation of the United Nations to maintain international peace and security, defend human rights, reject APartheid and all forms of racial discrimination and segregation and eradicate colonialism, to allow the peoples to enjoy their right to self-determination. In this draft resolution the Arab States are as one in their desire to ensure respect for the commitments undertaken as Members of the Organization. It is clear that the Arab countries and the League of Arab States attach particular importance to the strengthening of co-operation between the two organizations. This is made clear in operative paragraphs 3, 4, la and 11 of the draft resolution. For e~ample, in paragraph 3 the General Assembly requests the Secretary-General to continue to strengthen co-operation with the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States for the purpose of implementing United Nations resolutions relating to the question of Palestine and the situation in the Middle East in order to achieve a just, comprehensive and durable solution to the Middle East conflict and the question of Palestine, the core of the conflict. In paragraph 4, it requests the Secretariat of the United Nations and the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States, within their respective fields of competence, further to intensify their co-operation towards the realization of the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, the strengthening of international peace and security, disarmament, decolonization, self-determination and the eradication of all forms of racism and racial discrimination. In paragraph 9 it decides that, in order to intensify co-operation, a general meeting between the United Nations system and the League of Arab States should take place once every three years and inter-agency sectoral meetings should be organized annually on areas of priorities and wide importance in the development field of the Arab States, time and place to be determined by consultations between the two organizations. (Mr. AI-Alti, DemQcratic Yemen) Paragraph la recommends that the: Secretary-General of the United Nations and the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States take the necessary steps to conclude an agreement of co-operation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States when the text of such an agreement is finalized by the two organizations, as called for in operative paragraph la of General Assembly resolution 42/5. In the light of what I have said in going over the preambular and operative parts of the text, I appeal to Member States to vote in favour of draft resolution A/43/L.7, which is aimed primarily at supporting international legitimacy and pursuing co-operetion between the two organizations to give effect to the noble principles to the fulfilment of which all the peoples of the world aspire, so as to ensure a world of peace, co-operation, justice and fraternity. Tbe PRESIDENT (interpretation from SpaniE~h): I call on the representative of Israel, who wishes to ezplain his vote. I remind members that in accordance with General Assembly decision 34/401 explanations of vote are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats. Mr. HISSIH-ISSACBABQ[l (Israel): The General Assembly has before it once again a draft resolution regarding co-operation between the United Nations and the Arab League. Since the Arab League's establishment it has pursued objectives and activities against my country which clearly contradict the Charter of the United Nations. In the view of the delegation of Israel, therefore, such co-operation with the United NationB is clearly inappropriate. On the political level, the Arab League, 8S an organization, has consistently ~ejected any realistic or viable approach to the peaceful settlement of the (Mr. Al-Alfl. Democratic Yemen) Arab-Israeli conflict. This is reflected in the wording of operative paragraph 3 of the draft resolution before us which calls for the implementation of: "United NatioDs resolutions relatinq to the question of Palestine and the situation in the Middle East". These highly contentious resolutioDS of the General Assembly have never constituted any genuine basis for a negotiated and peacefUl sattlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict, in particular by those actively involved in the peace process. If anything, they undermine the very idea of direct negotiations between Israel and its Arab neighbours based on Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973). On the economic level, the Arab League has continued over the years its efforts to attempt to weaken and boycott Israel. Fortunately, most international companies are not intimidated by this blackmail. This blackmail, however, has become the singUlar trademark of the Arab Leaque. It is primarily for these reasons that my delegation will vote against the draft resolution A/43/L.7.

The·Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/43/L.7. I have to inform members that the Secretary-General does not foresee programme budget implications in the implementation of this draft resolution. We shall DOW begin the voting process. A recorded vote has been requested. h .•. A recorded yote was takep. In favour: Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangl&desh, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Bulg&ria, Burkina Faso, Burma, Burundi, Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, ChinA, Colombia, Congo, Costa Rica, Cote d'Ivoire, Cuba, Cyprus, Czechoslovakia, Democratic Kampuchea, Democratic Yemen, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gabon, Gambia, German Democratic Republic, Germany, Federal Republic of, Ghana, Greece, Grenada, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Iraq, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Lebanon, Lesotho. Liberia, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, MongQlia, Morocco, Mozambique, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Norway, oman, Pakistan, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Parag~ay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Samoa, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Somalia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Sweden, Syrian Arab Republic, Thailand, 70go, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, Union of Soviet Socialist Rep~lics, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom of Great Britain and" Northern Ireland, United Republic of Tanzania, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Viet Ham. Yemen, Yugoslavia, Zaire, Zambia, Zimbabwe Against: Israel, United States of America Draft resolution A/43/L.7 was adapted by 146 votes to 2. (resolution 43/3).*

I shall now call on representatives who wish to explain their votes. Miss BYBHE (United States of America): As in previous years, the United States again voted against the resolution on this item. This is not because we are opposed to the general principle of enhanced co-operation b~tween the United NatioDS and the League of Arab States. On the contrary, we fully endorse greater co-operation of this kind. * Subsequently the delegation of Swaziland advised the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour. Operative paragraph 3 of this resolution, ha_ever, requests the Secretary-General to attempt to implement previous General Assembly reso~,utions that the United States has consistently opposed as damaging to the prospects for peace end security in the Middle East. We cannot support adoption of a text that is so clearly inconsistent with United States policy. ~ ZOIS (Greece): I have the honour to speak on behalf of the twelve member States of the European Community. While we have all voted in favour of the resolution on co-operation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States just adopted, we wish, nevertheless, once again to mate a few general comments. Over the last few years the General Assembly has been faced with a growing number of resolutions relating to the co-operation between the United Nations and var.ious organizatioDs holding observer status, a tendency which will continue during this General Assembly. The Twelve are well aware of the benefits of such co-operation and have been happy to join in expressions of support and encour8qemant for the further development of such co-operation within the framewort of the Charter. However, the Twelve would prefer that a resolution of this kind deal with questions of co-operation in terms which avoid introducing contentious elemonts. In particular, with regard to operative paragraph 3 of draft resolution A/43/L.7, the Twelve wish to draw attention to the need to avoid prejUdicing the role of the Secretary-General, and also to the fact that the Twelve have not supported all the resolutions referred to in that paragraph. (Miss BYIne, United States) The Twelve also urge that, in view of the current financial constraints, efforts be made to limit the cost of such co-operation between the United Nations and various organizations with observer status. With regard to paragraph 12, we ~ould lite to state that its contents should not serve as a precedent for the future. The United Nations should be free to mate use, in its various projects, of the best and most economical expertise available to it. Mr. IAGANI (Japan)! The delegation of Japan is well aware of the extremely v&luable benefits to be derived from co-operation between the United Nations and the various organizations with observer status. Japan thus welcomes and fi~ly supports the co-operation of the United Nations with the League of Arab States. CODsequently, Japan voted in favour of draft resolution A/43/L.7. However, we would like to place on record our position concerning operative paragraph 3 of the draft resolution, which includes references to some of those United Nations resolutions that ve did not supp,ort. Japan also wishes to draw attention to the need for efforts to limit the costs of such co-operation between the United Nations and the various organizations with observer status, in view of the current financial constraints. Mr. BQREUAM (Australia): Australia has been a consistently strong supporter of instruments .of regional co-operation and of co-operation between such bodies and the United Nations. The Secretary-General's report (A/43/509 and Add.l) is a source of satisfaction. For this reason Australia has registered a positive vote on this res~lution. My delegaticn wishes to place on record, however, that, as with similmr resolutions in the past, again this year it encountered difficulties with the wording of operative paragraph 3 of the draft resolution on which we have just voted. My delegation, however, looks forward to substantive debates on the relevant questions under other items later in this session. Regarding operative paragraph 12, while understanding the sentiment expressed in this context, my delegation considers that the United Nations should continue to be mindful of the need for merit, efficiency and economy in the employment of staff. This principle applies in all resolutions where considerations of this kind are raised. ~ (New Zealand): My delegation supports the promotion of co-operation between this Organization and the League of Arab States. We accordingly voted in favour of the resolution that has just been adopted. Again, however, we have reservations about aspects of the resolution, in particular operative p~ragraph 3. I wish to place on record that our vote does not signify any change in our position on matters that are not relevant to the resolution. On operative paragraph 12, I wish to state my delegation's belief in the need for continued adherence to the Organization's existing criteria concerning the employment of staff. Mr. KIRSCH (Canada): As in the case of similar resolutions in previous years, Canada voted in favour of the resolution that has just been adopted. We are very much aware of the benefits derived from the ongoing co-operation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States. However, we would like to record that we have certain reservations with regard to operative paragraph 3, as it refers to previous United Nations resolutions that Canada did not support. Also, we view tho recommendation in operative paragraph 12 as bei~9 within the context of existing United Nations personnel policies, and as not setting a precedent. Mr. yon BARNEION (Denmark): I have the honour to speak on behalf of the five NordIc countries: Finland, Iceland, Sweden, Norway and Denmark. The Nordic countries voted for the resolution just adopted by the General Assembly on the understanding that the elements with political implications are not relevant to the issue and, obviously, cannot prejudice the positions of the Nordic countries on the substantive matter referred to.

The Observer for the League of Arab States has asked to be allowed to reply to a statement. In accordance with General Assembly resolution 477 (V), of 1 November 1950, I call on him. Mr. HANSQURI (League of Arab States) (interpretation from Arabic): We listened a while 8g0 to the representative of Israel as he tried to justify his negative vote on the resolution regarding co-operation with the League of Arab States. It would seem that there was no justification for his negative vote on the resolution, which was supported by the majority of States, the vote being 146 in favour and only two agBlinst. The representative of Israel tried to attack the League of Arab States by making false accusations. The League of Arab States has stated clearly its position on many issues, especially the issue of peace and security in the Middle East. It would have been better had the representative of Israel adopted a positive attitude to the offer made by the League of Arab States, which supports the settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict by peaceful means, as demonstrated at the first Arab summit and at subsequent Arab summits. He should also have accepted the General Assembly's resolutions on the subj9ct, all of which call for the convening of an international peace conference under the auspices of the United Nations. To be effective, that conference would have to have full powers and all the interested parties should participate, including the Palestine Liberation Organization, the sole, legitimate representative of the Palestinian people, on an equal footing with all the others. We in the Arab homeland work for, and look forward to, the social and economic development that will ensure the well-being and dignity of Arab citizens and their sovereignty over their land. In our march towards that goal we must strive to end Israel's occupation of Arab territories. Israel must withdraw from the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, Jerusalem, south Lebanon and the Arab Golan Heights. The League of Arab States seeks peace - that is the goal of all mankind, but especially of the Arab peoples - and we hope that Israel will r8&pond favourably to our demand.

This concludes our consideration of agenda item 25.

Prior to the Assembly's taking a decision on the draft resolutioD I call upon the representative of Belize. appreciation to the representative of Honduras for his precise presentation of the draft resolution A/43/L.8/Rev.l. The United Nations has always sought to wort with regional organizations - as well it should - for by so d01ng it increases the prospects for peace and development throughout the world. The Assembly has today adopted resolutions on co-operation between the United Nations and the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee, the United Nations and the Organization of the Islamic Conference and the United Nations and the League of Arab States. Draft resolution A/43/L.8/Rev.l on co-operation between the United Nations and the Organization of American States (OAS) encourage~ co-operation between those two organizations. The Belize delegation supports the idea of co-operation between the United Nations and the OAS but we believe such co-operbtion would be more meaningfUl if all the American States wers members of the OAS. As members of the Assembly will recall, article 8 of the charter of the Organization of American States prohibits Belize and Guyana from becoming members of that regional organization. If it were a matter of the OAS's being open to all American States and two having chosen not to be members, that would have been a different situation, but its charter itself closes the doors of the OAS to Belize and Guyana. It is in that context that the Belize delegation views this draft resolution with some degree of scepticism, particularly operative paragraph 4, on which I must reserve my Government's position until such time as all American States are members of both organizations. It is our view that the most genuine display of co-operation by the member States of the Organization of American States would have been for each member of that organization to have ratified the Cartagena Consensus before this draft resolution was put to the General Assembly this year. That would have opened the door of the OAS for Belize and Guyana. To date, 14 member States of the Organization of American States have not ratified the Consensus and 17 have done so. We have been informed by others that the process of ratification has started. It is our hope that by the time a similar draft resolution is presented to the forty-fourth session of the General Assembly member States of the OAS will have made it possible for Belize to support it unreElorvedly. On behalf of the people and Government of Belize it is my great pleasure to express our gratitude to those American States which have already ratified the Cartagena Consensus. At the same time I must call on those American States which have not yet done so to demonstrate their genuine desire for co-operation by the early ratification of the Consensus. That would clear the way for a truly regional Organization of American States and for greater co-operation between the United Nations and the Organisation of American States.

The Assembly will now take a decision o~ draft resolution A/43/L.8/Rev.l. In this connection I should like to inform members of the Assembly that the Secretary-General does not foresee programme budget implications in the implementation of the draft resolution. May I take it that the Assembly adopts the draft resolution? Draft resolution A/t3/L.8/Rev.l was adopted (resolution 43/4).

The Assembly has concluded its considerati03 of agenda item 27 • CO-OPERATICIf BB1WEEN THE UNITED NATIafS AND THE LATIN AMERICAN ECQfa4IC SYSTEM (a) REPORT OF THE SECRETARY-GENERAL (A/43/433) (b) DRAFT RESOLUTICIf (A/43/L.6) Th- PRESIDENT (interpretation from Spanish): In connection with the item OD co-operation betueen the United Nations and the Latin Amorican Economic System the ASSembly has before it a draft resolution (A/43/L.6) • Mr. ALZAMQRA (Peru) (interpretation from Spanish): It is a pleasure for me to introduce the draft resolution entitled "Co-oparation between the United Nations end the Latin American Economic System"~ contained in document A/43/L.5. Aa the AlIBembly knows, the Latin American Economic System (SELA), i. made up of the Z6 countries of Latin America and the Caribbean which establiahod it in 1975 in order to provide the region with an organisation that would be exclusively for the members of the region. SELA is therefore the only forum for co-ordination and co-operation among Latin American and Caribboan countrie9, and the annual dialogue of its foreign ministers has to date beon the highest level of regional consultation. The draft re90lution is therefore co-sponso~ed by all of the States members of SBLA. Its main purpose is to help broaden and strengthen the co-operation between the United Nations and the Latin American Economic System. Ever since SELA was established in October 1975, various organisations and agencies of the United Nations system have given it thoir support and co-operation and have taken part in various joint projects of interest to the Goveruments of the region. At its forty-second session, the General Assembly adoptod resolution 42/12 in which it called on the S~cretary-G,neral to report to it at the current sesaioD on the implemeDt~tlonof that resolution and on the evolution of co-operation between the United Nations system and SEtA. Through the adoption ef the draft resolution which we are submitting today, we are seeking to reDew the commitmant to broaden and strengthen that co-operation. In its preamble the draft resolution refers to decision 282 of the Latin American Council, which is the supreme body of SELA, and states that it considers General AS8embly resolution 42/12 to be an ~nportant step. In the oporatlve psrt: "Takes note with satisfaction of the roport of the Secretary-General" and "Expresses satisfaction with decision 282 of the Latin American Council of the Latin American Economic System". It also: "Expresses its gratitude for the constant efforts made by the Latin American Economic System in promoting co-operation among the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean, and consultatIon and co-ordination of their position~ on subjects of vital importance to the region, as well as in en.'lancIng their economic and social development". Fu~thermore, it: "Urges the Economic Commission for Latin Amedca and the Caribbean to broaden and deepen its co-ordination and mutual support activities with the Ll!\tin American Economic System" and: "Urges the United Nations Development Prog 'lfte to strengthen and broaden its support to the programme that the Permanent Secretariat of the L~tin American Economic System is carrying out within the framework of the 1989-1991 work progr8lMle approved by the Latin American Council". It further: "Urges the specialized agencies and other organizations and programmes of the United Nations system to continue to inteneify their co-operation with the activities of the Latin American Economic System". Finally, it: "Requests the Secretary-General of the United Nations to promote, in close collaboration with the Permanent Secretary cf the Latin American Economic System, the holding of a meeting in 1989 between their respective secretariats," - without financial implicatioD8 for the OrgAnisation - "with the aim of identifying those areas in which it will be pc.sible to "r',aden co-operation between the United Nations system and the Latin American Economic System". Bearing in mind that this draft resolution does not contain any controversial elsments and that it reflects the aspirations of the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean concerning the broadening and strengthening of co-operation between the United Nations and SELA, the Peruvian delegation hopes that this draft resolution, which is sponsored by all countries members of the System, may be adopted without a vote. %be PRESIDENT (interpretation from Spanish): I now call on the representative of Mexico, who vishes to ezplain his position on this draft resolution. Mr. MOXA FALENCIA (Mexico) (interpretation from Spanish): Mr. President, as you aptly said at the and of the Cleneral debate of this session of the General Assembly, the time has COMe for the question of development to be given a central place in our internAtional agenda. Only thus will we be able to consolidate the progress made in the a~ea of di.a~ament and the solution of regional conflicts. In the course of the wort of the Second Committee, my delegation expressed pleasure and satisfaction over the achievements made by the super-Powers in their dialogue Dnd over the progress made on political issues. However, we mention~d our concern over the lesser importance which the Powers attach to the development of the third world and to the urgency of the need to overcome the economic crisis which exists in developing countries and for the international community as a whole. We saId that peace was not merely the absence of war. In order for peace to be real, complete and lasting, a number of conditions must be met so that men and women everywhere in the world may live to the fUll, without lacking the basic essentials. At present, those conditions are not being mGt and, what ie even (Mr. Al;omoEa. Peru) worse, it would seem that there is no clear awareness of the urgency of meeting them. In the United Rations and in all international organizations efforts and refO~B should be directed towards strengthening the Organization's capacity to respond to the challenges of development ond poverty. Motivated as we are by our desire to promote multilateralisnl at the economic level, and not at the political level only, we consider it extremely important to support and promote a more effective relationship between the United Nations and the Latin American Economic System (SELA). Co-operation between those two organisations is of special importance since, as has been mentioned here, SELA is the only instrument for broad-based agreement and co-operation that exists solely for Latin American and Caribbean countries. Ever sinca its establishment, SELA has played a key role in the process of Latin American integration and in the search for more just and equitable international economic relations. Within its framework, several instrumenta of consultation and negotiation have been Agreed to, which have been of help in identifying shared goals and drawing up joint strategies. A new exercise, which no doubt will be of great importance in the future, Is the informal meeting of foreign ministers which was held at the end of the fourteenth session of the Latin American Council, and which enjoyed the participation of countries from the region which are not members of SEtA. This was the first time that ministers and deputy ministers for foreign affairs from the entire region had ~pt to analyse the international problems we face. In the area of regional co-operation, SELA haG undertaken various programmes and ~~tion. in priority areas with a view to meeting the needs reSUlting from the economic and .oc~al problems reaulting from the current crisis. Efforts at co-operation have been =tepped up in the area of foreign debt, which i. the major obotacle to the reactivation of ~evelopment in our countries. To this end, a regional mechanism has been established for the Ilchange of information and elperience in regard to debt management and negotiation. In addition to this, the Ministers of Latin America and the Caribbean, members of SEtA, convened a regional conference in Caracas, on foreign debt in order to consider new approaches and to discuss fair and lasting solutions to this serious problem. One aspect which has been given special attention is that of technical co-operation among developing countries, aimed at strengthening the following sectors: agricUlture, health, foreign trade, housing, science and technology~ and education. (Mr. Moy. Palapcia. Mellco) The countries of Iatio America and the Caribbean recently agreed a'l new mechanisms for 1II)re effective participation in the defining of pr ior ities and the drr..wing up of regional pcojects finance'! by the united Nations Dcwelopment Progranne. This means that the use and co-ordination of the resources available fer the operational activities of the united Nations system will be mexe consistent with the needs of the region. The report s.mmitted by the secretary-General in accordance with General Assellbly resolution 42/12 presents a pcomising picture of the co-operation efforts undertaken since 1975 and the immediate prospects for strengthening ties between the united Nations and the Latin American Economic System (SELA). Co-operation between SELA and the Economic Commission for Latin Amer iea and the Car ibbean (ECIAC) is a key element. The projects tha t have been de'leloped jointly by those institutions are many, and have covered a broad range of economic activities. Throughout its work, SELA has had the support of other agencies of the United Nations system. Co-operation between SELA and the united Nations Industrial Developllent Organization has made significant progress, including in areas such as capital dcwelopment and micro-electrcmics. we also wish to highlight co-operation with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development for the purpose of undertaJc 109 studies and prep~ing proposals on the best utilization of the region's purchMing power to strengthen intra-zma1 trade and to increase the regian's share of w«ld trade. In addition to these actions, and in accordance with General Assembly resolution 42/12, SEIA has been undertaking specific activities of co-operation with the United Nations Env!rClnmant Progr&lllle, the ~rld Intellectual Property (kganbatien Md the United Nations Centre for: Transnational Corpcxations. Purtheraore, in July a oo-operatlon agreement W&s eigned with the United Nations (Mr. !bp Palencia, Mexico) Bducational, Scientific and Cultural Organization to promote co-ordinated co-operation in the exact and social sciences, culture and communications. Co-operation has also been manifest in the work done by SELA action committees, in which regard we wish to highlight that of the Committee of Action and Support of Economic and Social Development in Central America, Which was established in 1983 to promote the development of the countries of the area without discrimination or political preconditions, and thus contribute to the peace and stability of the region. This list of activities shows the importance which the member countries of SELA attach to co-operation with the United Nations, and indicates their desire/to intensify these efforts. This will was expressed in decision 282 of the 14th Latin American Council, which reiterates the inte~est of Latin America and the Caribbean in broadening and strengthing co-operation with the United Nations. Given an international arena that increasingly opposes the goals of economic p~oqress of the third world, economic and technical co-operation among developing count~ies becomes all the more important to supplement efforts being made to open up Dew prospects and development opportunities and bring about a more just and equitable restructuring of the international economic oraer. The undertaking and consolidation of these initiatives by SELA will require close co-operation with the comp~tent bodies of the United Nations system. The countries of Latin America and the Caribbean have brought to this General Assembly a draft resolution on strengthening co-operation between the United Nations and the Latin American Economic System. We are convinced that adoption of this draft resolution will give important impetus to co-operation between those organizations. (Mr. Meya Palenoia, Mexico) In Latin America we understand that brood-based agreement is 0 key element in the solution of problems, and we recogni:e the work SELA has done. We direct our efforts towards 0 just and pe~ODent solution of the debt problem Bnd to our future development. On 27 October in Punta del Eate, Uruguay, there will be a meeting of the permanent mechanism for cODsultatioD and political agreement at the presidential level, with an agenda in which economic issues will hove a central place. The United Notions muat participate vigorously in efforts to strengthen co-operation Among developing countries and in search of international economic relations capable of benefiting all countries through shared responsibilities. The easing of world tensions must not cause the developing world to be forgotten or left out of the process that brings well-being, p~ogress and peace in its broadest sense. For all of us, the price would be too high. Mr. PEUALOSA (Colombia) (interpretation from Spanish): Co-operation between the United Nations and the Latin American Economic System (SELA) is an item that has acquired renewed importance, especially at a time of increased international dialogue to achieve solutions of peace and prosperity for the peoples of the world. We therefore welcome the Secretary-General's report on this item and his recognition therein of the need to strengthen already existing bonds of co-operation between the two organizations. Ever since its creation in 1975, SELA has been making progress and increasing its co-operation with the United Nations, in particular its Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). In each of SELA's two major areas of action, this co-operation has been clear: in the area of regional consultation, in the support given to initiatives which, inter alia, led to the meeting of Presidents in 1984, at whicn the key Ouito Declaration and Plan of Action were (Mr. Mayo Pa180cio, Mexico) adopted; and, more recently, in the area of commodities, in the agreement that led to the regional Plan of Action adopted in Guatemala in 1987. In regional co-operation, action by SELA has been supported by sp~ciali.ed agencies and other organizations and programmes of the United Rations system, .specially in the fields of industry, science and technology, and trade iDfo~ation. Last September's meeting in Caracas, at which the Latin American Council of SELA reaffi~ed the principles contained in the Panama agreement that established the organization, also recognized the importance of General Assembly resolution 42/12. The dialogue of foreign ministers of countries of Latin America and the Caribbean, held in conjunction with meetings of the Council, has enabled us to expand our political and economic exchanges, thus strengthening inter-regional co-operation. (Mr. PaGalosa. Colombia) As an expression of the importance attached tQ this new aspect of pQlitical dialogue among foreign ministers of the regiQn ColQmbia has offered tQ hQst the next meeting, tQ be held in Cartagena in 1989. Regional fQrums such as the Latin American EconQmic System (SELA), whQse secretariat plays an essential role, serve not only for the identification Qf CQmmon needs and the exchange Qf experiences, but also for the planning Qf initiatives and solutiQns which, because they CQme from those with greater experience, may be mQre like to succeed. These initiatives, brQu~~t to the broader fQrum Qf the United NatiQns, will be the basis for world-wide st:ategies to solve prQblems in the various systems of activity Qf the OrganizatiQn, and will benefit from a brQader exchange Qf information in a universal forum. Accordingly, the delegation of CQlombia recommends that the Assembly adopt by consensus the draft resolution just introduced by the delegation of Peru. Mr. INSANALLY (Guyana): As a member of the GrQup Qf Latin American States, Guyana attaches great importance tQ the role of Latin American Economic System (SELA) as a catalyst for regional development. We believe that the system, which was created in 1975 and bQasts a broadly based membership, can be an effective instrument for promQting eCQnomic co-operation amQng participating countries. We would therefore wish to encourage it in this direction so that its full potential may be realized. In the midst of the prevailing economic crisis our region has seen its developmental efforts frustrated at every turn. There is urgent need therefore to devise a commQn strategy for restoring economic growth in the Latin American and Caribbean community. The fQrum of SELA, built as it is on the premise of regional solidarity, is ideally suited to the formulation Qf such an approach. Through a prQcess of consultation and co-ordination, the system has been remarkably successful in stirring member States to joint politicsl action in tha face of their economic and social problems. Indeed, at the fourteenth regular meeting of the Lstin Amarican Council, which was held in Caracas from 19 to 20 September this year, this collective determination wag reinforced by the adoption of a number of decisions &~ad at protecting the region from further decline. They contemplate and provide for the deepening of the regional integration movement and the strengthening of its bargaining power in intern~tionol economic negotiations. In keeping with the Bolivarian vision of a united Latin America and the Caribbean, SELA has been specifically mandated to mazimize dialogue and co-operation among membllr States. This imp=.ovement in relatiDDs will inevitably lead to the strengthening of the regional and subregional integration process, to the achievement of greater economic complementarity and to enhanced regional self-reliance. The wide gSMut of responsibilities which SELA is called upon to bear will undoubtedly stretch its capabilities to the full. Fully cognisant of the system's limitations, the Latin American Caribbean Council was of the view that tha United Nations, as an Organization that shares SELA's objectives of peace, co-operation Bod development, could, by virtue of its esperience and ezpertise, assist SELA in the discharge of its mandates. That wes the baeis of decision 282, which records the Council's satisfaction with the institutional co-ordination and co-operation that has developed following the agreement signed last year between the permanent secretariat of SELA and the Economic Comission for Latin America and the Caribbean. The Council on that occasion further expressed a special interest in the e:pansion of that rolationship. That aspiration ie now reflected in draft resolution A/43/L.6, which is before the General As.embly for considoration. My delegation is fully persuaded that increased collaboration between the United Nations and SELA would serve not only to avoid unnecessary duplication of activities by the two organizations but also to hasten the economic revival cf Latin America and the Caribbean. Accordingly, as a sponsor of the draft resolutioD, we commend it for unanimous adoption by this body. Mr. TIYlRAS GVZMAI (Dominican Republic) (interpretation from Spanish)1 The delegation of the Dominican R~public strongly supports the inclusion on the agenda of the item entitled "Co-optifation between the United Nations and the Latin American Economic System". OUr delegation believes that any draft reSUlting from consideration and intellectual effort and aimed at improving our economic, social and political situation in strictly Latin American te~s constitutes a serious step forward in reasserting certain fundamental values and principles on the basis of which Latin America can and should recover its ability to grow and innovate, its creative capacitie8, its ability to deal with new circumstances and to produce new and appropriate responses to the realities of the region. While it is true that there i8 much variety and many different national characteristics in our re9ioB and that the Latin American and Caribbean countries all differ greatly in te~8 of the size of their territories and the structure and magnitude of their production of goodo and ~ervices, it is equally true that in the sphere of foreign relations there is more that unites our countries than that divides UB. Therefo~e, the delegation of the Dominican Republic once again praises SB~·. vorx, and thi. time will support he adoption of the draft resolution on Ihe PRESIDENT (interpretation from Spanish): The Assembly will now tate a decision on draft resolution A/43/Lo6. May I take it that the General Assembly adopts the draft resolution? Draft resolution A/43/L.6 yaG adopt6d (reGoluticn 43/5). The PRESIDENT (interpretation from Sp&nish)~ We have completed consideration of agenda item 26. AGINDA ITEM 142 OBSERVER STATUS FOR THE AGEifCY FOR 'rim PROBIBITICIf or NUCLEAR WEAPClfS IN LATIN AMERICA IN THE GD!RAL ASSBMBLY~ DRAFT RISOLUTiCli (A/43/L.3) %be PRlSIPIHT (interpretation from Spanish): In connection with this item, the Assembly he: before it a draft resolution (A/43/L.3). I call OD the representative of Me.ico to introduce the draft resolution. Mr. MOl" PALEtfCIA (Mexico) (interpretation from Spanish): The importance of yet another regional issue brings me to the rostrum. Twenty-five years ago, in resolution 1911 (XVIII), of 27 November 1963, the General Assembly noted with satisfactioD the initiative for the aonuclearization of Latin Arnerice. Today, on behalf of the 23 States parties to the Treaty for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin Americ~, better known aa the Treaty of Tlatelolco, I have the honour to submit to the General Ass~~ly for consideration draft resolution A/43/L.3, in which it would decide to grant observer status to the Agency set up under article 7 of that Treaty, namely, the Agency for the Prohibition of Nuclear WeapOlllS in Latin Amedca and the Caribbean (OPAHAL). It is sponsored by Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Boli~ia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, 11 Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Me.~co, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay and Venesuela. The strictly procedural nature of this draft resolution accounts for the brevity of the text. In the preambular part the General Assembly would take note of the desire of the Agency for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean for co-operation with the United Nations. In tbe operative part, the ABS~ly would decide to invito the Agency to participate in its work in the capacity of observer and request the Secretary-General to take the necessary action to implement tbe resolution, once adopted. It should be recalled that in resolution 2286 (XXII), of 5 December 1967, the General Assembly welcomed the Treaty of Tlatelolco and said that it "constitutes an event of historic significance in the efforts to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and to promote international peace and security". Bearing in mind that the General Assembly has included in its agenda items relating to the banning of nuclear weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean and has adopted numerous resolutions in this respect, this request that observer statUG be granted to the Agency for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean is a logical consequence of earlier actions that will formalize relations that have existed since the signing of the Treaty of Tlatelolco, which in its article 21 states that no provision shall be interpreted in such a way as to restrict the rights and obligations of the parties under the United Nations Charter. Last year we commemorated the twentieth anniversary of the Treaty of Tlatelolco. For the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean parties to the Treaty it is a source of pride that the United Nations recognizes the importance of nuclear-weapon-free zones. In the Final Document of the first special session of the General Assembly devoted to disarmament, which took place in 1978, it is stated that the establishment of such zones constitutes an important disarmament measure that should be encouraged in different parts of the world with the ultimate objective of aChieving a world entirely free of nuclear weapons. The Treaty of Tlatelolco has been a sourc~ of inspiration for Governments and peoples ill other parts of the world which wish to increase the areas in which nuclear weapons have been prohibited for ever. The sponsors of draft resolution A/43/L.3 believe that OPANAL's experience in the performance of its functions and in ensuring compliance with the obligations assumed by States in under the Treaty (Mr. MQya Palencia. Mexico) of Tlatelolco can ~upport such efforts and we hope that the General Assembly will adopt the draft resolution.

The General Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/43/L.3. May I take it that the General Assembly wishes to adopt the draft resolution? Draft resolution A/43/L.3 was adQpted (resolution 43/6).

I call on the representative of the United States, who wishes to explain her Government's position. Miss BYBNE (United States of America): The United States participated in the adoption by consensus of draft resolution A/43/L.3 granting observer status to the Agency for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America (OPANAL). The United States encourages co-operation between the United Nations and OPANAL. Considering the highly specific nature of OPANAL's conc~rns. however. we are surprised that it has been thought necessary ,r useful to establish formal relations of the nature con.sidered in the resolution. It is cur view that. even without observer status. ways are already available under the Charter for the participation of organizations such as OPANAL in United Nations activities related to their specific sphere of influence. In the light of this, we trust that in the future consideration will be given to these possibilities before such measures are embarked upon.

We have concluded our consideration of agenda item 142. The meeting fQse at 6.25 p.m• (Mr •. Moya Palencia. Mexico)