SECRETARY-GENERAL RECALLS MARITIME TRADITIONS OF HAMBURG AT LAYING OF FOUNDATION-STONE FOR LAW OF SEA TRIBUNAL
Press Release
SG/SM/6088
SEA/1533
SECRETARY-GENERAL RECALLS MARITIME TRADITIONS OF HAMBURG AT LAYING OF FOUNDATION-STONE FOR LAW OF SEA TRIBUNAL
19961018 Following is the text of Secretary-General Boutros-Ghali's statement delivered today at the laying of the foundation-stone of the future seat of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea in Hamburg, Germany:As we lay the foundation-stone of the building that is to house the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, I salute this great port city. Hamburg is a worthy venue for this important new international institution.
Hamburg is rightly proud of its maritime traditions. Its maritime legal system has existed continuously since the thirteenth century. It is the home of internationally recognized shipping lawyers, and of many venerable institutions connected with shipping and marine affairs. From shipbuilding to nautical engineering, and from oceanographic research to coastal protection, Hamburg's expertise is second to none -- and is an invaluable resource for the international maritime community.
As host city for the Tribunal, Hamburg is also helping to strengthen the regime of international law. International law is the language of international relations. It provides a way to develop shared norms and common standards. It offers a clear analytical framework for approaching problems of mutual concern. And it is a powerful basis for multilateral action. Hamburg's support for the Law of the Sea Convention -- which is one of the most comprehensive treaties ever completed -- thus helps to fulfil one of the main purposes of the United Nations.
The development and extension of international law is one of the greatest projects of modern times. We must not take its progress for granted. Too often, its principles have been violated. Too often, its relevance has been denied. Too often, its authority has been defied. This building is more than bricks and mortar. It is a foundation-stone for the continuing construction of an edifice of international law that the world of the future simply cannot do without.
- 2 - Press Release SG/SM/6088 SEA/1533 18 October 1996
I thank the German authorities who have so generously supported the Tribunal and who will construct on this wonderful location a building of great beauty.
I offer the Judges, the Registry my every good wish as they proceed to establish the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea.
The sea is the mother of all humanity. Let this building serve as a symbol of the spirit of peace and justice that those who work within its walls will give back to the sea.
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