A/58/PV.79 General Assembly

Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2003 — Session 58, Meeting 79 — New York — UN Document ↗

The meeting was called to order at 7.05 p.m.
Vote: A/RES/58/244 Recorded Vote
Show country votes
✓ Yes (126)
Vote: A/RES/58/245 Recorded Vote
Show country votes
✓ Yes (115)
The President #40792
Let me first apologize for the delay, which was due to circumstances entirely beyond our control. I am sure that members understand that we are endeavouring to make every effort to conclude this evening, rather than continue tomorrow. I thank members for their patience.

73.  General and complete disarmament Report of the First Committee (A/58/462) Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/646)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

26.  The situation in Central America: progress in fashioning a region of peace, freedom, democracy and development Draft resolutions (A/58/L.30/Rev.1 and A/58/L.38) Reports of the Fifth Committee (A/58/653 and A/58/654)

The President #40793
Members will recall that the Assembly held a debate on this agenda item at its 55th plenary meeting, on 4 November 2003. The reports of the Fifth Committee on the programme budget implications of draft resolutions A/58/L.30/Rev.1 and A/58/L.38 have been issued as documents A/58/653 and A/58/654, respectively. I give the floor to the representative of Mexico to introduce draft resolution A/58/L.30/Rev.1.

117.  Human rights questions (b) Human rights questions, including alternative approaches for improving the effective enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms Report of the Third Committee (A/58/508/Add.2) Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/650)

Vote: 58/246 Consensus

155.  Report of the Special Committee on the Charter of the United Nations and on the Strengthening of the Role of the Organization Report of the Sixth Committee (A/58/517) Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/647)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

12.  Report of the Economic and Social Council Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/588)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

132.  Financing of the International Tribunal for the Prosecution of Persons Responsible for Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law Committed in the Territory of the Former Yugoslavia since 1991 Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/580)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

134.  Administrative and budgetary aspects of the financing of the United Nations peacekeeping operations Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/582)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

120.  Programme budget for the biennium 2002-2003 Reports of the Fifth Committee (A/58/572 and A/58/572/Add.1)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

121.  Proposed programme budget for the biennium 2004-2005 Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/573)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

119.  Review of the efficiency of the administrative and financial functioning of the United Nations Reports of the Fifth Committee (A/58/571 and Add.1)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus
Ms. Anguiano Rodríguez MEX Mexico on behalf of sponsors [Spanish] #40794
It is an honour for the delegation of Mexico to introduce, on behalf of the sponsors, the draft resolution on the United Nations Verification Mission in Guatemala (MINUGUA), which is contained in document A/58/L.30/Rev.1. In addition to the countries listed in the version of the draft resolution that we are introducing today, Japan has joined the list of sponsors. With the signing of the Agreement on a Firm and Lasting Peace, on 29 December 1996, the Government of Guatemala and the Unidad Revolucionaria Nacional Guatemalteca put an end to more than three decades of armed conflict in Guatemala. The Agreement was the result of a six-year negotiation process sponsored by the United Nations. Since that time, at the request of the parties, the United Nations, through MINUGUA, has played a fundamental role in the peace process: verifying compliance with the commitments arising from the Agreement. That role has been widely recognized by the parties to the agreements and by Guatemalan society as a whole. The draft resolution that we are introducing today takes note of the reports submitted under this item. In particular, it responds to the request of the Government of Guatemala and of that country’s civil society that the Mission’s mandate be extended for one more year, until the end of 2004, so that it can accompany the peace process during the first year of the mandate of the Government that will assume its duties in January. Among the draft resolution’s new elements, I should like to highlight the appeal to those who will be elected on 28 December to support the peace agreements as State accords and to incorporate them into their governmental plans, in conformity with the commitment undertaken by the main political parties in July 2003. Also included is a reference to the meeting of the Consultative Group for Guatemala held in May 2003, in which all participants agreed that the peace agreements should remain the essential road map for Guatemala’s development. In addition, there is a reference to the recent agreement to establish an office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Guatemala. That will lend continuity to the verification work carried out by MINUGUA, once the Mission’s mandate has been completed. As already indicated, with the adoption of this draft resolution, the Assembly will authorize a final renewal of the Mission’s mandate from 1 January to 31 December 2004, in conformity with the recommendations contained in the Secretary-General’s report. In addition, we request the Secretary-General to submit to the fifty-ninth session of the Assembly a report on the implementation of the resolution and a final report on the Mission’s work. I wish to indicate an editorial correction to the English version of the draft resolution under consideration. So that it is consistent with the English version recorded on behalf of the sponsors, in operative paragraphs 2 and 12 of the text, the words “with satisfaction” after the word “welcomes” must be deleted. Guatemala is now in a time of political transition in which the international community’s support, through the Mission, remains very important. We trust that the political forces and Guatemalan society as a whole will maintain their commitment to the peace agreements and will commit themselves to completing the tasks remaining in the implementation of those agreements. In this, which will be the final extension of the mandate of the United Nations Verification Mission in Guatemala, we hope that draft resolution A/58/L.30/Rev.1 will have the Assembly’s unanimous support.

110.  Advancement of women Report of the Third Committee (A/58/501) Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/649)

Vote: 32/98 Recorded Vote
✓ 126   ✗ 5   30 abs.
Show country votes
✓ Yes (126)

113.  Promotion and protection of the rights of children Report of the Third Committee (A/58/504) Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/652)

Vote: 31/100 Recorded Vote
✓ 115   ✗ 20   28 abs.
Show country votes
✓ Yes (115)
The President #40795
The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/58/L.30/Rev.1, entitled “United Nations Verification Mission in Guatemala”, as orally corrected. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to adopt draft resolution A/58/L.30/Rev.1?
Vote: 58/238 Consensus

12.  Report of the Economic and Social Council Report of the Second Committee (A/58/495)

Vote: 32/413 Consensus
Draft resolution A/58/L.30/Rev.1, as orally corrected, was adopted (resolution 58/238).

94.  Environment and sustainable development (b) Implementation of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification in Those Countries Experiencing Serious Drought and/or Desertification, Particularly in Africa Report of the Second Committee (A/58/484/Add.2) Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/655)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus
Vote: 32/413 Consensus
Vote: 32/413 Consensus
Vote: 32/413 Consensus
Vote: 32/413 Consensus
Vote: 32/413 Consensus
Vote: 32/413 Consensus
The President #40796
I shall now call on the representative of Japan, who wishes to speak in explanation of position on the resolution just adopted. May I remind delegations that explanations of vote are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats.
Vote: 32/413 Consensus

52.  Oceans and the law of the sea

Vote: A/RES/58/240 Recorded Vote
✓ 156   ✗ 1   2 abs.
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✗ No (1)
✓ Yes (156)
Mr. Omura JPN Japan #40797
The Japanese delegation would like to provide an explanation regarding my Government’s support of the draft resolution contained in document A/58/L.30/Rev.1, entitled “United Nations Verification Mission in Guatemala”. Japan believes that continued support for and strengthening of cooperation with the United Nations Verification Mission in Guatemala (MINUGUA) are critical for the enhancement of cooperation relations with Guatemala and with the Central American region as a whole, and has decided to sponsor this draft resolution to extend its mandate. At the same time, my delegation would like to stress that, while the extension of this Mission will not immediately result in an increase in the United Nations budget, we are generally quite concerned about the budget’s continuing expansion. It is essential that, from this point forward, MINUGUA strive to accelerate its activities and to bring its final mandate to a conclusion expeditiously through closer coordination with the United Nations Development Programme and with other relevant organs of the United Nations system that are conducting activities on the ground.
The President #40798
We have heard the only speaker in explanation of position. Draft resolution A/58/L.38 is entitled “The situation in Central America: progress in fashioning a region of peace, freedom, democracy and development”. Before proceeding to take action on draft resolution A/58/L.38, I should like to announce that, since its publication, the following countries have become sponsors: Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Estonia, Germany, Grenada, Jamaica, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, the Republic of Korea, the Russian Federation, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Slovakia, Suriname and Switzerland. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to adopt draft resolution A/58/L.38?
Vote: 31/100 Consensus
Vote: 31/100 Consensus
Vote: 31/100 Consensus
Draft resolution A/58/L.38 was adopted (resolution 58/239).
Vote: 58/239 Consensus
The President #40799
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 26?
It was so decided.
Vote: 32/95 Consensus
Vote: 32/95 Consensus
Vote: 32/95 Consensus
The President #40800
Members will recall that the Assembly held the debate on this item at its 63rd and 64th plenary meetings, on 24 November 2003. The report of the Fifth Committee on its programme budget implications is contained in document A/58/648. We will proceed to consider draft resolution A/58/L.19. I shall now call on those representatives who wish to speak in explanation of vote before the voting. May I remind delegations that explanations of vote are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats.
Mr. Tekin TUR Türkiye #40801
Turkey will vote against the draft resolution entitled “Oceans and the law of the sea”, contained in document A/58/L.19. The reason for my delegation’s negative vote is that some of the elements contained in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea that had prevented Turkey from approving the Convention are once again retained in this year’s draft resolution. Turkey supports the international efforts to establish a regime of the sea that is based on the principle of equity and that can be acceptable to all States. However, the Convention does not make adequate provision for special geographical situations and, as a consequence, is not able to establish an acceptable balance between conflicting interests. Furthermore, the Convention makes no provision for registering reservations on specific clauses. Although we agree with the Convention in its general intent and most of its provisions, we are unable to become a party to it because of those serious shortcomings. That being the case, we cannot support the draft resolution, which calls upon States to become parties to the Convention on the Law of the Sea and to harmonize their national legislation with its provisions.
Mr. Pulido León VEN Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela [Spanish] #40802
My delegation wishes to explain its position in the forthcoming voting on the draft resolution entitled “Oceans and the law of the sea”, contained in document A/58/L.19. The delegation of Venezuela wishes once again to place on record its commitment to supporting, as it has always done in the past, efforts to promote coordination and cooperation with respect to oceans and the law of the sea. However, the difficulties that have prevented my country from becoming a party to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea remain unchanged and in effect, despite the fact that the Convention entered into force more than two decades ago. Its standards therefore do not apply to Venezuela, since my country is not a party to that international instrument. That is why my delegation wishes once again to place on record the fact that, for the reasons I have just noted, certain aspects of the draft resolution on the Convention on the Law of the Sea, contained in document A/58/L.19 under agenda item 52 (a), will compel us to abstain in the imminent voting.
Vote: 31/169 Consensus
Vote: 31/169 Consensus
The President #40803
The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/58/L.19, entitled “Oceans and the law of the sea”. I should like to announce that, since the introduction of the draft resolution, the following countries have become co-sponsors: Cyprus, Denmark, Malta, Mauritius, Sierra Leone and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Guyana informed the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour and the delegation of Azerbaijan informed the Secretariat that it had not intended to participate in the voting.]
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution A/58/L.19 was adopted by 156 votes to 1, with 2 abstentions (resolution 58/240).
The President #40804
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 52?
It was so decided.

Reports of the First, Second, Third and Sixth Committees

The President #40805
The General Assembly will now take up the following reports in order to take action on remaining draft resolutions, those dealing with the report of the First Committee on agenda item 73; the reports of the Second Committee on sub-items (b) and (f) of agenda item 94; the reports of the Third Committee on agenda items 110 and 113 and on sub- items (b) and (c) of agenda item 117, as well as the report of the Sixth Committee on agenda item 155. If there is no proposal under rule 66 of the rules of procedure, I shall take it that the General Assembly decides not to discuss the reports of the First, Second, Third and Sixth Committees that are before the Assembly today.
It was so decided.
The President #40806
Statements will therefore be limited to explanations of vote. The positions of delegations regarding the recommendations of the First, Second, Third and Sixth Committees have been made clear in the Committees and are reflected in the relevant official records. May I remind members that, under paragraph 7 of decision 34/401, the General Assembly agreed that “When the same draft resolution is considered in a Main Committee and in plenary meeting, a delegation should, as far as possible, explain its vote only once, that is, either in the Committee or in plenary meeting, unless that delegation’s vote in plenary meeting is different from its vote in the Committee”. May I remind delegations that, also 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. Before we begin to take action on the recommendations contained in the reports of the First, Second, Third and Sixth Committees, I should like to advise representatives that we are going to proceed to take decisions in the same manner as was done in the Committees, unless notified otherwise in advance. This means that where recorded or separate votes were taken, we will do the same. I should also hope that we may proceed to adopt without a vote those recommendations that were adopted without a vote in the Committees.
The President #40807
The Assembly will resume consideration of the report of the First Committee on agenda item 73 to take action on draft resolution I recommended by the First Committee in paragraph 82 of its report (A/58/462). The report of the Fifth Committee on the programme budget implications of draft resolution I is contained in document A/58/646. Draft resolution I is entitled “The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects”. In the Committee, draft resolution I was adopted with a recorded vote. However, it is my understanding that there is no vote requested in the plenary. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to adopt draft resolution I without a vote?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 58/241).
The President #40808
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 73?
It was so decided.
The President #40809
The General Assembly has thus concluded its consideration of all the reports of the First Committee before it.
The President #40810
The Assembly will resume consideration of the report of the Second Committee on sub-item (b) of agenda item 94 to take action on draft resolution I recommended by the Second Committee in paragraph 14 of its report (A/58/484/Add.2). The report of the Fifth Committee on the programme budget implications of draft resolution I is contained in document A/58/655. Draft resolution I is entitled “Implementation of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification in Those Countries Experiencing Serious Drought and/or Desertification, Particularly in Africa”. A separate vote has been requested on operative paragraph 14 of draft resolution I. Is there any objection to this request? There is none. I shall now put to the vote operative paragraph 14 of draft resolution I, on which a separate vote has been requested. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
Operative paragraph 14 of draft resolution I was retained by 161 votes to 1.
The President #40811
The Second Committee adopted draft resolution I as a whole. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 58/242).
The President #40812
I have one request for explanation of vote after the vote. I give the floor to the representative of the United States.
Mrs. Tamlyn USA United States of America #40813
The United States remains opposed to the financing of conference services for this treaty body from the United Nations on a non-reimbursable basis. In accordance with Article 17 of the Charter of the United Nations, the Member States of the United Nations are not responsible for expenses relating to treaty body activities. However, in the context of our overall deliberations on the 2004-2005 budget and in keeping with our position that in accordance with General Assembly resolution 41/213 the budget be adopted by consensus, the United States has not blocked provisions for this resource requirement from the contingency fund.
The President #40814
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 94? (f) Protection of global climate for present and future generations of mankind Report of the Second Committee (A/58/484/Add.6) Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/656)
It was so decided.
The President #40815
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Second Committee in paragraph 11 of its report (A/58/484/Add.6). The draft resolution is entitled “Protection of global climate for present and future generations of mankind”. A separate vote has been requested on operative paragraph 5 of the draft resolution. Is there any objection to this request? There is none. I shall now put to the vote operative paragraph 5 of the draft resolution, on which a separate vote has been requested. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
Operative paragraph 5 of the draft resolution was retained by 161 votes to 1.
The President #40816
The Second Committee adopted the draft resolution as a whole. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/243).
The President #40817
One delegation has requested the floor in explanation of vote after the vote. I give the floor to the delegation of the United States.
Mrs. Tamlyn USA United States of America #40818
As stated previously, the United States is opposed to the financing of conference services for this treaty body from the United Nations on a non-reimbursable basis. In accordance with Article 17 of the Charter of the United Nations, the Member States of the United Nations are not responsible for expenses relating to treaty body activities. However, in the context of our overall deliberations on the 2004-2005 budget and in keeping with our position that in accordance with General Assembly resolution 41/213 the budget be adopted by consensus, the United States has not blocked provisions for this resource requirement from the contingency fund.
The President #40819
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of sub-item (f) of agenda item 94?
It was so decided.
The President #40820
I now give the floor to the Rapporteur of the Second Committee, Mr. José Alberto Briz Gutiérrez of Guatemala.
Mr. Briz Gutiérrez GTM Guatemala [Spanish] #40821
I have the honour once again of addressing the General Assembly in relation to agenda item 12, entitled “Report of the Economic and Social Council”, assigned to the Second Committee. I wish to call to the attention of the plenary an omission in paragraph 18 of document A/58/495, where, as a recommendation of the Second Committee, a new decision should be included, after decision I. Thus the existing draft decision II, which concerns the Second Committee’s proposed programme of work for 2004, becomes draft decision III. The new draft decision II, entitled “Trust Fund for the United Nations Forum on Forests”, was adopted by consensus by the Second Committee and is contained in chapter I of the report of the Economic and Social Council (A/58/3 (Part I)) and in A/C.2/58/6. The text of the draft decision has been circulated informally to the delegations in the Hall.
The President #40822
If there is no objection, the Assembly will resume its consideration of the report of the Second Committee on agenda item 12, entitled “Report of the Economic and Social Council”, document A/58/495, to take action on draft decision II recommended by the Committee in paragraph 18 of its report, the text of which is contained in document A/C.2/58/6 in all languages and was reproduced and circulated in English in the Hall. Draft decision II is entitled “Trust Fund for the United Nations Forum on Forests”. May I take it that the General Assembly wishes to adopt draft decision II, recommended by the Second Committee?
Draft decision II was adopted (decision 58/554).
The President #40823
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 12. The General Assembly has thus concluded its consideration of all the reports of the Second Committee before it.
The President #40824
The Assembly will resume consideration of the report of the Third Committee on agenda item 110 to take action on draft resolution VII recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 43 of its report in document A/58/501. The report of the Fifth Committee on the programme budget implications of draft resolution VII is contained in document A/58/649. Draft resolution VII is entitled “Future operation of the International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently the delegations of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and South Africa informed the Secretariat that they had intended to vote in favour.]
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution VII was adopted by 126 votes to 5, with 30 abstentions (resolution 58/244).
The President #40825
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 110?
It was so decided.
The President #40826
The Assembly will resume consideration of the report of the Third Committee on agenda item 113 to take action on draft resolution III recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 65 of its report in document A/58/504. The report of the Fifth Committee on the programme budget implications of draft resolution III is contained in document A/58/652. Draft resolution III is entitled “Office of the Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently the delegation of India informed the Secretariat that it had intended to abstain.]
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution III was adopted by 115 votes to 20, with 28 abstentions (resolution 58/245).
The President #40827
May I take it that it is wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 113?
It was so decided.
The President #40828
The Assembly will resume consideration of the report of the Third Committee on agenda item 117 to take action on draft resolution XXVIII recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 131 of its report in document A/58/508/Add.2. The report of the Fifth Committee on the programme budget implications of draft resolution XXVIII is contained in document A/58/650. Draft resolution XXVIII is entitled “Ad Hoc Committee on a Comprehensive and Integral International Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights and Dignity of Persons with Disabilities”. The Third Committee adopted draft resolution XXVIII without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution XXVIII was adopted (resolution 58/246).
The President #40829
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 117. (c) Human rights situations and reports of special rapporteurs and representatives Report of the Third Committee (A/58/508/Add.3) Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/651)
The President #40830
The Assembly will resume consideration of the report of the Third Committee on sub-item (c) of agenda item 117 to take action on draft resolution II, recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 57 of its report in document A/58/508/Add.3. The report of the Fifth Committee on the programme budget implications of draft resolution II is contained in document A/58/651. Draft resolution II is entitled “Situation of human rights in Myanmar”. The Third Committee adopted draft resolution II without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same? I call on the representative of Myanmar, who wishes to speak in explanation of position on the resolution just adopted.
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 58/247).
Mr. Tun MMR Myanmar #40831
In the Third Committee, Myanmar disassociated itself from draft resolution A/C.3/58/L.63/Rev.1, as orally revised, contained in report A/58/508/Add.3 as draft resolution II. I would like to request that, for reasons already given in the Third Committee, Myanmar’s disassociation from the resolution be duly reflected in the official records.
The President #40832
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of sub-item (c) of agenda item 117?
It was so decided.
The President #40833
The General Assembly has thus concluded consideration of all the reports of the Third Committee.
The President #40834
The Assembly will resume consideration of the report of the Sixth Committee on agenda item 155 to take action on draft resolution I recommended by the Sixth Committee in paragraph 12 of its report (A/58/517). The report of the Fifth Committee on the programme budget implications of draft resolution I is contained in document A/58/647. Draft resolution I is entitled “Report of the Special Committee on the Charter of the United Nations and on the Strengthening of the Role of the Organization”. The Sixth Committee adopted draft resolution I without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 58/248).
The President #40835
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 155?
It was so decided.
The President #40836
The General Assembly has thus concluded its consideration of all the reports of the Sixth Committee before it. Reports of the Fifth Committee
The President #40837
The General Assembly will consider the reports of the Fifth Committee on agenda items 12, 118, 124 to 126, 131 to 134, 138, 140, 143 (a), 165, 166, 120, 122, 59, 121, 120 together with 121 and 161, and 119. I request the Rapporteur of the Fifth Committee, Mr. Fouad Rajeh of Saudi Arabia, to introduce in one intervention the reports of the Fifth Committee.
The President #40838
If there is no proposal under rule 66 of the rules of procedure, I shall take it that the General Assembly decides not to discuss the reports of the Fifth Committee which are before the Assembly today.
It was so decided.
The President #40839
Statements will therefore be limited to explanation of vote. The positions of delegations regarding the recommendations of the Fifth Committee have been made clear in the Committee and are reflected in the relevant official records. May I remind Members that by paragraph 7 of decision 34/401, the General Assembly agreed that when the same draft resolution is considered in a Main Committee and in plenary meeting, a delegation should, as far as possible, explain its vote only once, that is, either in the Committee or in plenary meeting, unless that delegation’s vote in plenary meeting is different from its vote in the Committee. May I remind delegations also 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. Before we begin to take action on the recommendations contained in the reports of the Fifth Committee, I should like to advise representatives that we are going to proceed to take decisions in the same manner as was done in the Fifth Committee unless notified otherwise in advance. I therefore hope that we may proceed to adopt without a vote those recommendations that were adopted without a vote in the Fifth Committee.
The President #40840
The General Assembly will now take action on the two draft decisions recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 8 of its report. Draft decision I is entitled “Delegation of formal authority in matters of personnel of the United Nations Population Fund”. May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to adopt draft decision I without a vote.
Draft decision I was adopted (decision 58/555).
The President #40841
Draft decision II is entitled “Report of the Economic and Social Council”. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to adopt draft decision II, recommended by the Fifth Committee?
Draft decision II was adopted (decision 58/556).
The President #40842
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 12.

118.  Financial reports and audited financial statements, and reports of the Board of Auditors Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/570)

The President #40843
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. The Fifth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/249).
The President #40844
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its recommendations of agenda item 118.

124.  Scale of assessments for the apportionment of the expenses of the United Nations Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/432/Add.1)

The President #40845
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. The Fifth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/1 B).
The President #40846
I shall now give the floor to those representatives who wish to speak in explanation of position on the resolution just adopted.
Mr. Alarcón CRI Costa Rica [Spanish] #40847
With respect to the resolution on the scale of assessments for the apportionment of the expenses of the United Nations that has just been adopted, I would like to thank all delegations that participated, with generosity and in good faith, in the negotiations leading to the more appropriate distribution of the assessments. As all delegations know, the methodology adopted in 2000 for application over the following three years, created significant distortions that were detrimental to certain countries, particularly developing countries. Unfortunately, the methodology that is in place does not produce fair or equitable results. Costa Rica, together with 14 other nations, experienced an increase in its assessment of more than 50 per cent. The negotiations on the scale of assessments made it possible to reduce the negative impact of the methodology, thanks to the voluntary increase agreed to by the Russian Federation, as well as to bilateral agreements between some of the worst-affected States and others that were interested in resolving this unjust situation. Costa Rica would like to thank the Government and the people of Spain for their solidarity and generosity. Thanks to them, the increase in my country’s assessment during the forthcoming period will be more reasonable — although it will still be significant. My delegation will never forget the noble and visionary initiative of the Spanish people. The difficulties we faced this year in negotiating the scale of assessments made it clear that we need to undertake an in-depth review of the methodology leading to a sound, fair and equitable calculation that is independent of political considerations. My delegation is prepared to start working to ensure that in 2006 we can adopt a new and better methodology. Likewise, we must provide the Committee on Contributions with clear technical, non-political criteria so as to enable it to evaluate the situation of each of the Member States with greater objectivity and with justice.
Mr. Ramlal TTO Trinidad and Tobago #40848
During my delegation’s statement during the meeting of the Fifth Committee on 15 October on agenda item 124, “Scale of assessments for the apportionment of the expenses of the United Nations”, we emphasized four issues, which we viewed as critical to our deliberations. First, we made clear our unswerving commitment to abide by the agreements contained in resolution 55/5 B, of 23 December 2000, which, among other things, fixed the elements of the scale methodology for two trienniums, namely, 2001-2003 and 2004-2006. Secondly, we emphasized the need for greater political commitment on the part of all Member States to pay their assessed contributions in full, on time and without conditions. Thirdly, we also emphasized the need for the General Assembly to extend sympathetic understanding to those who may be temporarily unable to meet their financial obligations because of genuine economic difficulties. Fourthly, we stressed that, consistent with the technical and political considerations inherent in the scale of assessments, due consideration would be given by the Assembly to ensuring adherence to the fundamental principles and processes which have guided the Assembly over the past 50 years in its deliberations on the scale of assessments. One of these long-standing principles has been the evolutionary nature of the scale methodology and the related need to ensure that there are no substantial increases in the individual rates of assessments of Member States over successive scale periods. Accordingly, in the context of negotiations on the draft resolution on the scale of assessments, Trinidad and Tobago sought to ensure full adherence to all the agreements contained in resolution 55/5 B, as well as to those principles which have guided the Assembly on this agenda item. We are pleased to have been a part of a consensus resolution on this important agenda item. We would also like to take this opportunity to place on record our appreciation to those delegations whose goodwill facilitated a decision on this agenda item, particularly the Government of Spain.
The President #40849
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 124.

125.  Pattern of conferences Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/575)

The President #40850
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 6 of its report. The text of the draft resolution is, for the time being, contained in document A/C.5/58/L.42. The Fifth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/250).
The President #40851
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 125.

126.  United Nations common system Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/576)

The President #40852
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 8 of its report. The Fifth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/251).
The President #40853
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude this stage of its consideration of agenda item 126?
It was so decided.

131.  Financing of the International Criminal Tribunal for the Prosecution of Persons Responsible for Genocide and Other Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law Committed in the Territory of Rwanda and Rwandan Citizens Responsible for Genocide and Other Such Violations Committed in the Territory of Neighbouring States between 1 January and 31 December 1994 Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/579)

The President #40854
The Assembly will now take action on the two draft resolutions recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. Draft resolution I is entitled “Second performance report for the biennium 2002-2003 on the International Criminal Tribunal for the Prosecution of Persons Responsible for Genocide and Other Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law Committed in the Territory of Rwanda and Rwandan Citizens Responsible for Genocide and Other Such Violations Committed in the Territory of Neighbouring States between 1 January and 31 December 1994”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution I without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/252).
The President #40855
Draft resolution II is entitled “Financing of the International Criminal Tribunal for the Prosecution of Persons Responsible for Genocide and Other Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law Committed in the Territory of Rwanda and Rwandan Citizens Responsible for Genocide and Other Such Violations Committed in the Territory of Neighbouring States between 1 January and 31 December 1994”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution II without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/253).
The President #40856
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 131.
The President #40857
The Assembly will take action on the two draft resolutions recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. Draft resolution I is entitled “Second performance report for the biennium 2002-2003 on the International Tribunal for Yugoslavia for the Prosecution of Persons Responsible for Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law Committed in the Territory of the Former Yugoslavia since 1991”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution I without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 58/254).
The President #40858
Draft resolution II is entitled “Financing of the International Tribunal for the Prosecution of Persons Responsible for Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law Committed in the Territory of the Former Yugoslavia since 1991”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution II without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 58/255).
The President #40859
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 132.

133.  Scale of assessments for the apportionment of the expenses of United Nations peacekeeping operations Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/581)

The President #40860
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 6 of its report. The draft resolution was adopted by the Fifth Committee without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/256).
The President #40861
We have thus concluded this stage of our consideration of agenda item 133.
The President #40862
The Assembly will now take a decision on the two draft resolutions recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 12 of its report and on the two draft decisions recommended by the Committee in paragraph 13 of the same report. We turn first to draft resolution I, entitled “Report of the Joint Inspection Unit on reforming the Field Service category of personnel in United Nations peace operations”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution I without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 58/257).
The President #40863
Draft resolution II is entitled “Report of the Office of Internal Oversight Services on the audit of the establishment and management of mission subsistence allowance rates”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution II without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 58/258).
The President #40864
We turn next to draft decision I entitled “Transfer of buildings to the United Nations Logistics Base at Brindisi, Italy”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft decision I without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft decision I was adopted (decision 58/557).
The President #40865
Draft decision II is entitled “Special measures for protection from sexual exploitation and sexual abuse”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft decision II without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft decision II was adopted (decision 58/558).
The President #40866
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 134.

138.  Financing of the United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/583)

The President #40867
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 6 of its report. The Fifth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/259).
The President #40868
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 138.

140.  Financing of the United Nations Mission of Support in East Timor Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/584)

The President #40869
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 6 of its report. The Fifth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/260).
The President #40870
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 140.

143.  Financing of the activities arising from Security Council resolution 687 (1991) (a) United Nations Iraq-Kuwait Observation Mission Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/585)

The President #40871
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft decision recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 6 of its report. The draft decision is entitled “Financing of the United Nations Iraq-Kuwait Observation Mission”. The Fifth Committee adopted the draft decision without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 58/559).
The President #40872
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of sub-item (a) of agenda item 143.

165.  Financing of the United Nations Mission in Liberia Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/589)

The President #40873
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 6 of its report. The Fifth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/261).
The President #40874
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 165.

166.  Admission of the International Criminal Court to membership in the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/590)

The President #40875
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 6 of its report. The Fifth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/262).
The President #40876
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 166?
It was so decided.
The President #40877
The Assembly will turn first to the report of the Fifth Committee contained in document A/58/572. The Assembly will take a decision on the four draft resolutions recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 19 of the report and on the three draft decisions recommended by the Committee in paragraph 20 of the same report. Draft resolution I is entitled “Report of the Joint Inspection Unit on the revenue-producing activities of the United Nations system”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution I without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 58/263).
The President #40878
Draft resolution II is entitled “Conditions of service and compensation for officials other than Secretariat officials: members of the International Court of Justice, judges of the International Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia and judges of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution II without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 58/264).
The President #40879
Draft resolution III is entitled “Salary and retirement allowance of the Secretary- General and salary and pensionable remuneration of the Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution III without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution III was adopted (resolution 58/265).
The President #40880
Draft resolution IV is entitled “Conditions of service and compensation for officials, other than Secretariat officials, serving the General Assembly: full-time members of the International Civil Service Commission and the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution IV without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution IV was adopted (resolution 58/266).
The President #40881
We now turn to draft decision I, entitled “Report of the Joint Inspection Unit on support costs related to extrabudgetary activities in organizations of the United Nations system”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft decision I without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft decision I was adopted (decision 58/560).
The President #40882
Draft decision II is entitled “Construction of additional office facilities at the Economic Commission for Africa”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft decision II without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft decision II was adopted (decision 58/561).
The President #40883
Draft decision III is entitled “Strengthening the Department of Public Information, within the existing capacity, in order to support and enhance the United Nations web site in all official languages of the Organization: follow-up”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft decision III without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft decision III was adopted (decision 58/562).
The President #40884
The Assembly will now turn to the report of the Fifth Committee contained in document A/58/572/Add.1. The Assembly will take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 5 of its report. The draft resolution is entitled “Final budget appropriations for the biennium 2002-2003”. The Fifth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/267).
The President #40885
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 120.

122.  Programme planning Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/574)

The President #40886
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 6 of its report. The text of the draft resolution, for the time being, is contained in document A/C.5/58/L.46. The Fifth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the General Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/268).
The President #40887
We have thus concluded this stage of our consideration of agenda item 122.

59.  Strengthening of the United Nations system Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/587)

The President #40888
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 6 of its report. The text of the draft resolution, for the time being, is contained in document A/C.5/58/L.47. The Fifth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/269).
The President #40889
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 59.
The President #40890
The Assembly will now take a decision on the five draft resolutions recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 59 of its report, which, for the time being, are contained in Part II, section IV, of document A/C.5/58/L.56. We turn first to draft resolution I, entitled “Questions relating to the proposed programme budget for the biennium 2004-2005”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution I without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 58/270).
The President #40891
Draft resolution II is entitled “Programme budget for the biennium 2004-2005”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution II. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 58/271).
The President #40892
Draft resolution III is entitled “Special subjects relating to the proposed programme budget for the biennium 2004-2005”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution III without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution III was adopted (resolution 58/272).
The President #40893
Draft resolution IV is entitled “Unforeseen and extraordinary expenses for the biennium 2004-2005”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution IV without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution IV was adopted (resolution 58/273).
The President #40894
Draft resolution V is entitled “Working Capital Fund for the biennium 2004-2005”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution V without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution V was adopted (resolution 58/274).
The President #40895
I shall now call on those representatives who wish to speak in explanation of position on the resolutions just adopted.
Ms. Goycochea CUB Cuba [Spanish] #40896
My delegation went along with the adoption without a vote of the draft resolution on the programme budget for the biennium 2004-2005, despite our reservations about a number of its provisions. Although my delegation understands that a budget resolution should not become an extensive policy document, we believe that it should include a number of provisions that put financial decisions in context. Therefore, we think a resolution text such as this, negotiated under exceptional circumstances, is inherently exceptional and should not be a precedent for future resolutions. That is without prejudice to the merits of the resolution just adopted, which are recognized by all delegations. In that context, my delegation would like to thank the Deputy Permanent Representative of Pakistan for his extraordinary efforts to arrive at this outcome. My delegation notes that the resolution once again imposes budgetary cuts on the amount of resources requested by the Secretary-General. We believe that everyone’s commitment to the Organization should include unrestricted support for reform measures and should be reflected in consistent and unconditional support for the budgetary requests that enable the Organization to function smoothly. That would be more coherent. The Cuban delegation is also concerned that the draft resolution has been used to promote certain reform decisions in the absence of specific decisions on the part of the relevant legislative bodies. It is in that context that we express serious reservations about the approval of the four posts requested by the Secretary- General in document A/58/569 for section 24, “Human rights”, related to the implementation of measures 3 and 4 of his reform plan. Although Cuba accepted the establishment of those posts, showing great flexibility, we have serious questions about them, in that their establishment constitutes a violation of paragraphs 8 and 9 of resolution 57/300. We shall carry out the necessary follow-up on this issue once the relevant legislative bodies have indicated their position.
Mr. Kennedy USA United States of America #40897
The United States remains opposed to the financing by the United Nations of conference services for treaty bodies when the treaty itself calls for the States parties to bear such costs. In accordance with Article 17 of the Charter of the United Nations, Member States are not responsible for expenses related to such treaty body activities. However, in the context of our overall deliberations on the 2004-2005 budget and in keeping with our position that — in accordance with General Assembly resolution 41/213 — the budget should be adopted by consensus, the United States has not blocked provision for several allocations from the contingency fund, but we shall continue to oppose such expenditures.
The President #40898
We have heard the last speaker in explanation of position. The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 121.

120.  and 161 Programme budget for the biennium 2002-2003 Proposed programme budget for the biennium 2004-2005 Financing of the United Nations Mission in Côte d’Ivoire Report of the Fifth Committee (A/58/586)

The President #40899
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resolution recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. The draft resolution is entitled “Financing of the United Nations Mission in Côte d’Ivoire”. The Fifth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 58/275).
The President #40900
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda items 120, 121 and 161.
The President #40901
The Assembly will turn first to the report of the Fifth Committee contained in document A/58/571. The Assembly will now take a decision on the five draft resolutions recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 14 of its report. Draft resolution I is entitled “Outsourcing practices”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution I without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 58/276).
The President #40902
Draft resolution II is entitled “Report of the Joint Inspection Unit on the management audit review of outsourcing in the United Nations and the United Nations funds and programmes”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution II without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 58/277).
The President #40903
Draft resolution III is entitled “Report of the Joint Inspection Unit on common and joint services of United Nations system organizations at Vienna”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution III without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution III was adopted (resolution 58/278).
The President #40904
Draft resolution IV is entitled “Report of the Office of Internal Oversight Services on the audit of the Investment Management Service of the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution IV without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution IV was adopted (resolution 58/279).
The President #40905
Draft resolution V is entitled “Review of duplication, complexity and bureaucracy in United Nations administrative processes and procedures”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft resolution V without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution V was adopted (resolution 58/280).
The President #40906
The Assembly will now turn to the report of the Fifth Committee contained in document A/58/571/Add.1. The Assembly will take a decision on the two draft decisions recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragraph 5 of its report. The texts of the draft decisions, for the time being, are contained in documents A/C.5/58/L.55 and A/C.5/58/L.54, respectively. Draft decision I is entitled “Biennial programme of work of the Fifth Committee for 2004-2005”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft decision I without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft decision I was adopted (decision 58/563).
The President #40907
Draft decision II is entitled “Questions deferred for future consideration”. The Fifth Committee adopted draft decision II without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft decision II was adopted (decision 58/564).
The President #40908
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 119. The General Assembly has thus concluded its consideration of all the reports of the Fifth Committee before it. Programme of work
The President #40909
Apart from organizational matters and items that may have to be considered by operation of the rules of procedure of the Assembly, and bearing in mind the action already taken by the Assembly thus far, I should like to propose that the following agenda items remain for consideration during the fifty-eighth session of the General Assembly: agenda items 3 (b), 10 to 12, 17, 18, 23 (a), 25, 28, 37, 38, 40 (b), 41, 44, 47, 49, 50, 55 to 60, 83, 85, 94 (e), 117 (b) and (d), 118 to 122, 124, 125, 131 to 134, 138, 140, 143, 160, 161 and 165. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly that those agenda items remain for consideration during the fifty-eighth session of the Assembly? It was so decided (decision 58/565). Statement by the President
The President #40910
It is now my pleasure to speak the words that, I am confident, we all want to hear: we have concluded our work for the first part of the fifty- eighth session of the General Assembly. Given the challenges we faced at the beginning and throughout the session, what we have been able to achieve together and the ambitious agenda we have set for ourselves for the remainder of the session, I believe it is safe to say that this session thus far has been nothing short of extraordinary. We started this session with a most dynamic and substantive general debate. The overall policy direction provided by the record number of heads of State or Government and other high-level participants in the general debate underpinned and stimulated the work of the Main Committees and of subsidiary bodies. Therefore, we were better prepared to address the myriad critical issues on our agenda, including HIV/AIDS, financing for development, humanitarian assistance, an enhanced role for the General Committee and the revitalization of the General Assembly itself. I was personally very optimistic at the beginning of this session that we were ready to move decisively to advance the process of revitalizing the General Assembly. I was ever conscious of the impact that a revitalized Assembly could have on the status of the United Nations in the global community. I am pleased that my reading of the readiness of Member States to move in that direction was right and that we have begun, with the adoption of a consensus resolution, a process for strengthening and revitalizing the General Assembly. On all the issues it has addressed thus far in this session, the General Assembly has put its shoulders to the wheel to accomplish the tasks at hand. We all know that it was not easy, and in fact at times it was exceptionally difficult. But each of our steps forward spoke volumes about our determination to reach accommodation, even when the challenges seemed intractable. I believe we have thus earned the right to be highly satisfied with our accomplishments. In particular, I am deeply appreciative of the support you have all provided in completing our work and the support you have given to me personally. In so doing, you have lightened my significant task. What we have accomplished redounds to the benefit of the General Assembly, of the United Nations and, consequently, of the various national constituencies that make up our global community. I want especially to express my heartfelt thanks to Permanent Representatives, delegates, chairpersons and members of regional and interest groups, and facilitators for the tremendous cooperation and support they have given me during this first part of the session. I look forward to their continued cooperation and support in the remainder of the session. The support of the Secretariat is integral to our collective effort to accomplish the goals and objectives of the General Assembly. I am especially indebted to the Under-Secretary-General and officers of the Department for General Assembly and Conference Management, who have spared no effort in assisting me and my Cabinet in every aspect of our work. The forthcoming period will be a demanding one, filled with challenge and great opportunity. We have laid out a very demanding agenda for what remains to be done during the rest of the session. On revitalization alone, our consensus resolution commits us to take up four key issues: the scheduling of future General Assembly sessions, including the work of the Main Committees and subsidiary and related bodies; the rationalization of the Assembly’s agenda; the biennialization, triennialization, clustering and elimination of items; and the rationalization of the working methods of the Main Committees. As members are well aware, revitalization is but one of the myriad issues to which we must turn our attention. Others, including planning and preparation for the major events of 2005, will also have to be taken up with the greatest of resolve. I have some good news: we will resume in January 2004. Technically speaking, that is next year, and we have all earned the right to rest, relaxation and recreation in the interim. I also have some not-so-good news: January 2004 is but a mere nine days away. Notwithstanding that fact, I hope that we will all be back in January, energized and, indeed, revitalized and ready to contribute to the fullest to the implementation of the courses of action on which we have agreed. On that note, I wish all delegations and their families a wonderful holiday season and a successful and very happy New Year. I am now pleased to declare this part of the fifty- eighth session of the General Assembly closed. I will ask members of the Assembly to join me in standing and giving ourselves a round of applause.
The meeting rose at 9.05 p.m.