A/47/PV.79 General Assembly
35. THE SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST: REPORTS OF THE SECRETARY-GENERAL (A/47/672, A/47/673 and A/47/716) Mr. HATANO (Japan): Throughout the year 1992 the world's attention has been focused on the dramatic and tragic events unfolding in various parts of the world, particularly in the former Yugoslavia, Somalia and Cambodia. But of no less importance to the maintenance of the world's peace and security is the situation in the Middle East. The region's long history, its richly diverse cultural and ethnic heritage and its important international strategic position make its problems crucially relevant to the entire international community. Developments in the region this past year have been both encouraging and frustrating. As I survey the region, the area in which there are perhaps the fewest signs of progress is Iraq. Although nearly two years have passed since it was forced to withdraw from Kuwait, Iraq has yet to recognize the territorial integrity of Kuwait and continues its campaign against that sovereign State. And in refusing to comply fully with the relevant Security Council resolutions the Iraqi Government continues to deprive its people of the means to overcome their hardship and rebuild their lives. In March, and again last month, Iraq's Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Tariq Aziz, appeared before the Security Council. On each occasion, Japan and the other members of the Council had high hopes that he would convey a message from his Government that it would cooperate so that the United Nations sanctions could be lifted and the suffering of the Iraqi people eased. On each occasion, our hopes proved to have been in vain. Indeed, the Iraqi leadership even suggested that the resolutions calling for the future Iraq appears to interpret the Council's resolutions as attempts to interfere with its domestic policy. It must recognize, however, that the only way to alleviate the suffering of its people is to implement those resolutions. Until it does so there is no possibility that the sanctions will be lifted. Japan once again urges the Government of Iraq to comply fully and unconditionally with all the relevant resolutions without further delay. In the meantime, the welfare of the Iraqi people remains a matter of great concern. The Government of Japan feels particular sympathy for those in the South and in the North who are being victimized by their own Government. Japan is particularly dismayed by Iraq's unwillingness to export oil, as provided for by Security Council resolution, and provide relief to its people. In the meantime, United Nations and non-governmental agencies have been making heroic efforts to ease the suffering of the Iraqi people and they deserve our full support and profound admiration. On the other hand, we have witnessed promising developments this past year in the ongoing efforts to resolve the Palestinian issue. In view of the profound and age-old mistrust among the parties concerned, the fact that they have continued the talks initiated last year at the historic Madrid Conference is a source of encouragement. Indeed, apart from whatever progress is being made, the fact that the talks have not broken down is a positive demonstration of the political will of the parties concerned to resolve at last this long-standing and vexing issue. Of course, it would be naive to believe that the enmity among the parties could be dispelled in a year or two, but as long as they continue their dialogue the hope will remain alive that a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in the Middle East region is possible. The people of this region, and especially those of Palestine, have suffered so greatly and for so long; any ploy either from outside or from inside the region - to wreck the peace process will not be tolerated. Japan will continue to participate in multilateral talks in an effort to contribute to the welfare of all the peoples in the region. This year the world community again welcomed the release of Western nationals who had been held hostage in Lebanon. I believe that action greatly contributed to the creation of a more favourable atmosphere for peace and stability in the region. On the other hand, there continue to be disturbing reports of the use of violence and the threat of violence in southern Lebanon. Japan deplores such actions, which jeopardize the ongoing peace process. This process offers a precious opportunity to achieve a just. (Mr. Hatano. Japan) comprehensive and lasting peace. Japan urges all parties to end the cycle of violence and take maximum care to ensure that this opportunity will not be lost. The situation in Lebanon offers hope and promise. The world is pleased to note that Lebanon is now engaged in nationwide efforts under the Taif Agreement for national reconstruction and reconciliation. Japan wishes to encourage all sectors of the population in Lebanon to strengthen that effort and work together to implement that important Agreement. The policy of the Government of Libya continues to demand the attention of the international community. Its refusal to extradite suspected terrorists demonstrates a lack of regard for international expectations and for public opinion. Iraq's invasion of Kuwait two years ago has left indelible scars on the hearts of the people in the region. The peace talks have not yet produced results that are reflected in the lives of the Palestinian people. The situation remains a dangerous tinder-box that could be ignited by any careless or seemingly insignificant spark. But for the first time in many years there are signs of progress towards a solution of the situation in the Middle East. The peoples of the Middle East are thus at a great crossroads; it is up to them to seize the opportunity to restore peace and security to the region. I trust that within their historical, religious and cultural heritage they will find the wisdom to resolve their difficult problems. Japan calls upon the collective membership of this world body to support all efforts that will advance the cause of peace and security in the Middle East.
At the outset I should like to congratulate
37. Strengthening of the Coordination of Humanitarian Emergency Assistance of the United Nations
I would like to inform representatives that I have
asked the Permanent Representative of New Zealand, Ambassador
Terence Christopher O'Brien, to conduct consultations on my behalf, as
Chairman of an open-ended working group on agenda item 37, with all interested
delegations in order to prepare an agreed text of a draft resolution under the
item.
The meeting rose at 1.05 p.m.