After a long period during which there has been a lack of progress in the Middle East peace process, there now seems to be reason for cautious optimism. The Palestinians have a new Government in place. In his inaugural address to the Palestinian Legislative Council, Prime Minister Qurei expressed a …
Anti-personnel landmines remain a serious cause of human suffering in many parts of the world. Since the entry into force of the Mine Ban Convention four and a half years ago, much has been achieved to relieve this suffering, but much still remains to be done.
Norway believes that, in order to prop…
In the years that have passed since the end of the armed conflicts in Central America, the main challenges facing the countries of that region have been the eradication of poverty and the protection of human rights. The key issues in that struggle, both past and present, are good governance, sustain…
Let me begin by thanking the Deputy Secretary-General for personally introducing the Secretary-General’s reports on United Nations reform. The Deputy Secretary-General’s commitment and dedication to United Nations reform are truly appreciated.
Allow me also to pay particular tribute to you, Sir, fo…
In late June, Annalena Tonelli received a 2003 Nansen Refugee Award in recognition of decades of quiet devotion and selflessness in helping the poorest of the poor in remote and difficult places in Somalia. She touched the lives of thousands of people. Yet two weeks ago, she was brutally murdered ou…
Norway has a strong commitment to Africa. We feel that there are many positive signs coming from the continent. We will continue our partnership with many African States and we will engage even deeper with African regional and subregional organizations.
Norway recognizes the important steps that ar…
Again, the situation in the Middle East is causing great concern. The implementation of the road map has stalled. The logic of violence is prevailing, as it has so many times before. Norway urges the parties to resume implementation of the road map, which has the backing of the international communi…
Today in Oslo, the Nobel Peace Prize was presented to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and to Al Gore. They are being awarded the prize for their efforts to build up and disseminate greater knowledge about man-made climate change and to lay the foundations for the measures that a…
