S/PV.24 Security Council

The Council’s consensus decision to include Arabic among the official and working languages of the Security Council is a mileslone in the evolution of the principle of cultural universality. unity and diversity which is one of the United Nations’ most cherished goals in its efforts to bring about greater integration, friendship and amity among all nations and distinct areas of civilization, 5. The decision of the Council and the evidence of the friendly spirit in which it was arrived at unanimously will bc received with profound appreciation throughout the Arab world and far beyond. On behalf of Jordan and all the Arab countries which have striven so diligently over the past decades to achieve this cherished objective. I should like to express dcepcst appreciation, for its fulfilment. thanks to the favourable and friendly response of the Council and its members. The President of the Council. Mr. Natorf of friendly Poland, deserves particular commendation for the expeditious manner in which he has handled the sub.ject. as does the Secretary-General, who directed the various executive organs of the United Nations some time ago to prepare the functional aspects of the implementation of this decision in anticipation of its being adopted, which happily has been the case. 6. As the representative of Jordan and of the Group of Arab States in the Security Council. I personally feel privileged to have been associated with the consummation of this historic process and to be present on this occasion.

I take it that the Council has now concluded its consideration of the item on its agenda. 8. Mr. de PINIES (Spain) (i,7tr~/p~r,tr~tio/7.frwm Sptrr7- is/~): I simply wish to express the hope that the peace of the world will not be disturbed. especially in the coming days of holiday. 9. On the assumption that the Council will not meet again this year, my delegation wishes to thank all those IO. The Security Council. the principal organ of the United Nations. is a unique body. In my view. it is quite distinct from the Ccneral Assembly or any of the other main bodies. This is the second time my country has been a member of this Council. It is true that its actions have often been frustrated. as the Secretary- Gcnctnl has pointed out in his report.’ Perhaps greatet USC of the provisions of the Charter of the United Nations could allow it to operate more effectively. We continue to believe that the Council is an organ in which disputes should he discussed and settled and that perhaps greater use of preventive rather than curative action might make it more effective, I I. In any event. I wish to express to all members the grntitudc of my delegation. my country and my Government for the trust placed in us, I wish all mem- Litho in Unilcd Nations. New York 00300 88-60989-October 1989--?.oso

I am in a slightly difficult situation because. as President of the Council. I cannot be as optimistic as the representative of Spain and assume that we shall have no more meetings before the end of this month and this yeal-. I shall take the opportunity today to bid farewell unofficially to those that are leaving the Council, and if we have occasion to meet again I shall repeat it officially.