GENERAL ASSEMBLY SPECIAL SESSION HEARS 32 SPEAKERS AS REVIEW OF 1994 BARBADOS ACTION PROGRAMME CONTINUES

Press Release
GA/9613
ENV/DEV/523

GENERAL ASSEMBLY SPECIAL SESSION HEARS 32 SPEAKERS AS REVIEW OF 1994 BARBADOS ACTION PROGRAMME CONTINUES

The security of small island developing States (SIDS) is increasingly threatened, the Minister of External Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago, Ralph Maraj, told the twenty-second special session of The General Assembly this morning, as the Assembly continued its review of progress achieved in implementing the Programme of Action adopted at the Conference on the Sustainable Development of Small Island States, held in Barbados in 1994.

Their very democracies were under attack, Mr. Maraj added. Resources which should be allocated to health care, education, food and employment had to be diverted to fighting drug traffickers, money launderers and terrorists.

John Briceno, the Deputy Prime Minister of Belize, said that his country was committed to capacity-building, but -- like all SIDS -- it could not accomplish its objectives alone. The assistance of developed country partners was essential, and so the significant decline in official development assistance in recent years was of great concern. International cooperation was fundamental to reducing the vulnerability of small island States.

The Minister of State at the Department of Environment and Local Government of Ireland, Danny Wallace, said the word vulnerable often arose in discussions of small island States, but there was a worrying lack of precision as to what was meant by vulnerability. It would be useful to share information to generate agreement on vulnerability indices, and on the uses to which they could be put. Development cooperation with small, remote and vulnerable communities must not be put at risk because of a plethora of uncoordinated strategies and programmes.

Other speakers this morning stressed the achievements that had been made, particularly by small island States themselves, in the five years since the promulgation of the Barbados Programme of Action. However, they also emphasized the need for greater financial commitment by donor countries. Most of the 32 speakers endorsed the need to reaffirm the international commitment to principles and actions established in the Barbados Programme of Action and in Agenda 21, the

General Assembly Plenary - 1a - Press Release GA/9613 Twenty-second Special Session ENV/DEV/523 3rd Meeting (AM) 28 September 1999

action programme of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED)(Rio de Janeiro, 1992)

Also speaking this morning were: the Deputy Prime Minister of Yemen; the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Singapore, New Zealand, Haiti, Comoros, Pakistan, Bhutan, Cuba, Sri Lanka, Senegal, Portugal and Lesotho; the Government Spokeswoman for International Development of the United Kingdom; the Philippine Secretary for Foreign Affairs; the State Secretary of Foreign Affairs of Denmark; the United States Under- Secretary for Global Affairs; the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Italy; the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs of Vanuatu; and representatives of El Salvador, Venezuela, Sweden, Turkey, Fiji, Luxembourg, United Arab Emirates, Belarus, Costa Rica, South Africa and Morocco.

The Assembly will meet again at 3 p.m. today to continue its discussions.

Assembly Work Programme

The General Assembly met this morning to continue its twenty-second special session to review implementation of the Programme of Action adopted at the Global Conference on the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States, held in Barbados in 1994.

JOHN BRICENO, Deputy Prime Minister of Belize: The new world economic order ushered in at the end of the Uruguay Round of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade was designed to increase the standard of living of all peoples. The Marakesh Declaration of 1994 recognized the need for provisions conferring differential and more favourable treatment of developing countries, including special attention to the particular situation of least-developed countries. While the challenges presented to us by mother nature are irreversible, we must continue to question and confront those detrimental situations created by some around us who measure success at the expense of the weaker.

The momentum fuelling globalization and trade liberalization has ignited a false sense of prosperity for some and is increasing the gap between developed and developing countries. We small island developing States (SIDS) must ensure that those institutions charged with regulating world trade secure opportunities for our growth and development, and that they be made to realize that continued sustainability of the greater developed world is tied to smaller developing nations.

Belize agrees that people are its most valuable resource, and for this reason has placed great priority on human development -- decent housing, adequate health services, access to clean water, proper education and proper nutrition. We are also committed to capacity-building. But we cannot accomplish all our objectives alone. We need the assistance of our more developed partners. In this respect, we must express concern over the significant decline in official development assistance (ODA) in recent years and call on our developed partners who have not done so to honour their commitment to designate 0.7 per cent of their gross domestic product towards development. The challenge is to reduce the vulnerability of small island States. To achieve this, international cooperation is fundamental. Most importantly we must renew our support for the Barbados Programme of Action.

DANNY WALLACE, Minister of State for the Environment of Ireland: Ireland is familiar with many of the questions that face small island States: How can small economies, far from major markets, deal with globalization? How does a small island State reconcile valuable tourism promotion with environmental protection? What are the best strategies for developing marine resources and protecting coastal regions?

The Barbados Programme of Action and preparations for this special session have identified the challenges and produced a strategy. What is needed now is specific concerted action and measurable results. Ireland is placing new emphasis on small island States, particularly the poorest and most vulnerable, in our overall multilateral policies. Ireland hopes to work closely with multinational agencies in the integration of developing economies, especially least developed countries, into the global economy and the building of partnerships between small island States and the European Union.

The word vulnerable often arises in discussions of small island States, yet there is a worrying lack of precision as to what is meant by vulnerability. We must also clarify and define the relationship between development assistance and

vulnerability. Further analysis is necessary before indices and the uses to which they can be put can be agreed upon, but we believe it would be useful for all participants in this area, including United Nations bodies, the World Bank and the affected States to share information on the subject.

We must not undermine our development cooperation with small, remote and vulnerable communities through a plethora of uncoordinated strategies and programmes.

ABDULKADER BAJAMMAL, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Yemen: Our task is not confined to the problems posed by nature and geography. The cruelty of the treatment inflicted upon some people is more oppressive than the cruelty inflicted on people by nature in the form of natural disasters. Most of the problems we face today are man-made.

Yemen stands at the crossroad between Asia and Africa. Our concern reflects our desire to develop strong regional relations and close cooperation in such areas as economics, trade, marine issues, culture and tourism. Undoubtedly, the violation of human rights and underdevelopment contribute to the destruction of societies and violence. Although there are many efforts in the field of economic and social development, those efforts are undermined by the lack of infrastructure and the absence of modern management systems. It is important to move from simply emergency relief to creating an environment of sustainable development, which would create a level of balanced partnership. The international community and all its agencies and bodies are called upon to contribute to the efforts of the governments and people, including Yemen, that are striving to achieve sustainable development. We hope this session will bring about the noble objectives sought in the Barbados Programme of Action and turn them into a reality.

SHUNMUGAM JAYAKUMAR, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Singapore: There has been no lack of commitment on the part of small island developing States (SIDS) in implementing the Barbados Programme of Action and Agenda 21 that arose out of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED). More than any other, island States understand the importance of protecting the environment. Rising sea levels resulting from global warming pose the greatest risks to us. Natural disasters are most devastating on us. Singapore too, has had to cope with many of the challenges laid out in the Barbados Programme. Our total land area is only 648 square kilometres, but our population is now more than 3 million people. The primary challenge, therefore, has been how best to use the limited land to sustain our economic growth and yet achieve a decent standard of living for our people.

Singapore understands only too well how small island States must cope with the numerous development problems, especially human resource development. In the early days of our development, we were fortunate to receive training from developed countries and international bodies. It is now our turn to help our fellow developing countries through the Singapore Cooperation Programme. Since 1992, more than 8,000 developing country participants have attended training courses in Singapore ranging from port development and civil aviation to information technology, productivity, environment control and the English language.

However, not many of these participants come from island States. Between 1995 and 1998, only 12 per cent of all participants hailed from SIDS. Therefore, over and above our existing courses, which are available to SIDS, I am pleased to announce today a customized five-year technical cooperation package of 300 training places for SIDS.

Baroness AMOS (United Kingdom), Government Spokesperson for International Development in the House of Lords: The United Kingdom is bound by a shared history and culture with many of the island countries represented here today. Our aim is to work closely with them towards a sustainable, secure and prosperous future. In our view, the Barbados Programme does not adequately stress the importance of the fight against poverty in the quest for sustainable development. Poverty eradication must be at the heart of efforts to implement the Programme. Even in small island developing States (SIDS) which have achieved middle-income status, there are vulnerable groups which have yet to benefit from their countries' greater prosperity. By making poverty elimination the central goal of our partnership with small islands, we aim to ensure that everyone will benefit.

Our development assistance programme also focuses on the capacity-building and institutional strengthening needed to help governments meet the needs of their people. Poverty eradication and sustainable development cannot be achieved by concessional financing alone. Trade, for example, is an area in which small islands find themselves particularly vulnerable. Some rely on a narrow range of exports, or are located far from centres of international financial decision- making. Many cannot afford representation at such centres. We are providing technical assistance to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to help it negotiate the best deal possible for the region in the successor arrangements to the Lomé Convention. We have led the call for the next World Trade Organization (WTO) ministerial meeting to take greater account of the needs of developing countries. We have pressed the case for small island banana producers to ensure that the outcome recognizes the special vulnerability of those who are heavily dependent on banana production.

The United Kingdom takes the problem of small island vulnerability to climate change very seriously. We are strengthening efforts to reduce our own carbon emissions, and working hard to make a reality of commitments made by developed countries at the Kyoto Conference on climate change. Finally, while aid budgets almost everywhere are falling, the United Kingdom's aid budget is shrinking. Progress in furthering education, in improving health and protecting the environment -- as well as advancing better governance and human rights -- can all contribute to the goal of international well-being and poverty elimination. We will play our full part in helping small islands achieve these vital objectives.

DON MCKINNON, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade of New Zealand: Five years ago we asked a great deal of small islands and the road since has not been easy, but the commitment to their own development among small island developing States (SIDS) has been evident. However, many SIDS have noted a weakened commitment on the part of their partners in the developed world. Partnerships on the international level juxtaposes large countries with very small ones and requires all parties to exercise tolerance and flexibility. Coming to grips with the smallness of SIDS can be a challenge in itself for international financial institutions.

As part of our partnership, donor countries must make the greatest possible effort to reverse the decline in ODA that occurred in the decade up to 1997. Beyond the level of resources, the donor countries need to coordinate their approaches with each other, with individual partner governments and with regional agencies. None of us can make it by themselves, and we fail to grasp this essential truth at our peril. Global problems such as marine pollution, sea level rise and ozone depletion do not recognize national boundaries. By the same token, the rest of the world cannot ignore the unique contributions of SIDS to global

sustainability through their rich biodiversity, their vast areas of marine resources and their coral reef ecosystems.

We do not need to search for new issues. The key constraints facing SIDS have already been clearly identified. We can certainly look at new ways of working together, but there is no getting around the need for more effort at targeted capacity-building, for additional finance, for transfers of environmentally-sound technology and, of course, for improved coordination.

FRITZ LONGCHAMP, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Haiti: I note the growing importance that governments attribute to sustainable development. Unfortunately, we have to observe that, in spite of considerable initiatives that have been developed, the danger of an ecological disaster cannot yet be ruled out -- particularly those affecting small island developing States (SIDS). Most of these islands are exposed to natural disasters. In the Caribbean, we are regularly swept by hurricanes -- George and Mitch last year, for example. And we must also remember volcanic eruptions, such as the one on the island of Montserrat. And, we must also note that desertification is gaining ground.

Also, at the end of the century, the problem of economic and political refugees is still growing. Haiti is continuing with its commitment to health and education. We recognize the initiative on biodiversity. This is why Haiti intends to participate in the various regional initiatives for the protection and conservation of natural resources.

The Caribbean Sea is a vital asset for the children of the region. We consider the serious repercussions environmental damage can have for the region. The Haitian Government is devoting special attention to vulnerable sectors of the population. The Government of Haiti expresses the wish that the programme for sustainable development will extend in all its dimensions.

SOUEF MOHAMED EL-AMINE, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Comoros: While we now recognize that the promotion of lasting sustainable development for all has become a priority, concrete application is crucial in light of global interdependence. The continued degradation of environment, energy problems, the vulnerability of States to external impacts on their economies, lack of resources and so on, must be constantly borne in mind when we consider lasting development. Small island States represent a particular case in the two key areas of environment and of development.

Comoros has environmental concerns, because of the volcanic nature of its terrain, the size and number of its islands, and its unique biodiversity and character. It has a national policy on environmental protection within the framework of economic development, to ensure the sustainable management of its resources. But it also has serious problems.

Access to resources to allow the effective exploitation of human potential is very important. Trade in agricultural produce is precarious, because of the decline in agriculture. New negotiations regarding agriculture at the WTO should account for the needs of small island States, to ensure liberalization does not have a negative impact.

SARTAJ AZIZ, Foreign Minister of Pakistan: The small size, isolation and vulnerability of small island developing States (SIDS) to forces of nature often create insurmountable problems. These factors also magnify the development challenges being faced by these States. Thus, support of the international

community becomes a vital element in their efforts to achieve sustainable development. While the SIDS had made serious endeavors to implement the Barbados Programme of Action, the international community has lagged behind in fulfilling its commitments.

It is not merely the issue of financial assistance that leads to the dependence of these States on global action. The threats of climate change and sea-level rise are posing problems which are far beyond their control. They rely on international trade more than most countries, as their limited land mass and resources require that they import virtually everything. To finance their imports, they need to raise foreign exchange through services, such as tourism, but in a global recession they are the first to suffer.

There is, therefore, an urgent need to facilitate the integration of the economies of the SIDS into the global economy in a sustainable manner. The existing mechanism for differential and special treatment of developing countries in providing market access should be further strengthened. The international community should also consider specific provisions and measures to compensate SIDS for their lost exports until their economies are restructured. We also need to promote the development of a comprehensive vulnerability index and its objective application. We also call on all States to respect the right of SIDS to ban or restrict the movement of hazardous and radioactive wastes through their seas.

RALPH MARAJ, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago: The market paradigm is based on the myth of the level playing field, and the reality of small island developing States (SIDS) explodes that myth. At the donor meeting last February, 312 projects were submitted by small islands of which twenty-two were submitted by Trinidad and Tobago. To date we have had no firm pledges by the donor countries for the implementation of these projects. Is it expected that the SIDS themselves will mobilize these resources?

The security of SIDS is increasingly threatened. In fact, their very democracies are under attack. Their coastlines are often open and not well protected and their limited resources make it impossible for them to provide adequate security measures. They are, therefore, very vulnerable to predators, such as drug traffickers, money launderers and terrorists. It is often the case that resources which should be allocated to ensuring proper health care, education for children, feeding of our citizens and to employment generation have to be diverted to fighting with drug traffickers. The SIDS feel particularly powerless in the face of this evil.

Trinidad and Tobago is dismayed at the lack of firm commitment on the part of the international community and donor agencies to live up to the obligations undertaken a mere five years ago in Barbados. There is little but the tedious reaffirmation of commitment, and doubts have arisen as to whether any resources will be forthcoming. Small islands do not bear responsibility for global warming and climate change, yet we are the ones who suffer most. It is our islands which will disappear from the face of the earth if nothing is done by those responsible for this threat to humanity. Because it has been done so many times before, it is now almost trite to call for decisive action.

LYONPO JIGMI THINLEY, Foreign Minister of Bhutan: As a small, landlocked developing country, Bhutan shares the same development aspirations and deep commitment to protecting the global environment as the small island developing States (SIDS), which constitute over 25 per cent of the United Nations and are a large, important part of the international community. Rich in biodiversity, SIDS

are the guardians of the galactic island, earth, against ever-spiraling threats. In the last five years, serious efforts have been made by the island States at the national and regional levels to implement the Barbados Programme of Action. The SIDS, however, are unable on their own to shoulder the responsibility of guardianship for essential global public goods.

Global warming is a serious problem for all countries. For the low-lying, small developing countries, the outcome could be devastating. Progress in negotiating and implementing measures to address global warming continues to be slow for want of international commitment. Reports indicate that the marine environment around many SIDS is deteriorating due to hazardous waste spills, sand extraction, seabed mining and nuclear material transport. The catastrophic implications have long-term consequences for human society.

Global economic integration is a powerful mechanism for growth and development. Many SIDS and other small developing countries benefit only minimally because their economies are based on a few key sectors, such as tourism, fishing and monoculture. International support for the commitments made in the Barbados Programme of Action has fallen short. Continuing decline in ODA does not make it easier to fulfil the objectives. As a single global community, it is incumbent on responsible members to take care of the environment and safeguard the future for mankind through the sustainable development of all nations and peoples.

DOMINGO L. SIAZON, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Philippines: The Philippines fully identifies itself with small island developing States (SIDS), for it is a nation of about 7000 islands, many of which are small. Small islands are vulnerable to the capricious onslaughts of nature's fury. They are especially vulnerable to rising sea levels and they immediately feel the impact of changing weather patterns. The recent El Niño phenomenon hit the Philippines hard, causing its agricultural sector to decline by 6.7 per cent and its gross domestic product to drop by .5 per cent last year.

The SIDS typify the challenges being faced by many developing countries, such as the pollution of air and water, vanishing forests, land erosion, depletion of coastal and marine resources and insufficient human resource development. In the five years since the adoption of the Barbados programme tangible progress has been achieved in certain key areas of work such as, the conservation of biodiversity. But SIDS countries continue to face inadequate financial and human resources for sustained efforts to address not only biodiversity, but also other urgent issues of sustainable development.

The SIDS countries remain highly vulnerable in energy, with most of them totally dependent on imported petroleum for their commercial energy needs. Sharp increases in fuel prices add stress on their economies in a big way. The SIDS may be remote, but not far enough to be unaffected by the sweeping tides of globalization or the changed economic fortunes of other countries.

ELLEN MARGRETHE LOJ, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark: Denmark recognizes the special vulnerability of small island developing States (SIDS), due to their small open economies and fragile ecosystems and their susceptibility to negative environmental impacts and natural disasters. There is broad political interest in these issues in Denmark.

Three areas deserve particular attention in the further implementation of the Barbados Programme of Action: the continued deterioration of the marine environment and its long-term effect on marine biodiversity and human health;

freshwater and land degradation issues in SIDS; and the increased frequency and severity of natural disasters, which erode the basis of agriculture. These should be given priority.

Attention should also be given to improving conditions for women and for the poorest target groups in SIDS. The least developed small island States also deserve special attention. Denmark strongly supports multilateral environment and development activities undertaken in partnership with SIDS. The Lome Convention is the centrepiece of cooperation between the European Union and small island States; the Union is committed to providing over 1 billion Euros of development assistance to Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific. Denmark is also involved with the South Pacific Environment Programme, the South Pacific Applied Geoscience Commission and the University of the South Pacific, and it supports development work in Maldives through its Mixed Credits Programme.

FRANK E. LOY, Under-Secretary of State of the United States: We are aware that globalization strikes fear in the hearts of many, but small island developing States (SIDS) have much to gain from it. Clearly, some developing nations have prospered more than others from it. Characteristics shared by those who have benefited include: good governance, strong and active participation in international deliberation, adequate levels of savings and investment and access by their populations to adequate food and health care.

For many SIDS, climate change is the transcendent issue. Of all the countries of the world, SIDS have the most to lose from global warming, and so have the greatest need of an agreement that sets up a system to encourage all nations to take steps to arrest climate change. Coastal and high seas fisheries are vitally important resources for SIDS; it is imperative that they be used sustainably. We urge countries to become parties to the Fish Stocks Agreement and the Food and Agriculture Organization's Compliance Agreement.

One of the great ecological tragedies of recent years is the continuing deterioration of coral reefs around the world. Earlier this year, the United States released a compelling report on the subject. Since the Barbados Conference, the International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI), proposed by the United States, has become an important forum for addressing threats to coral reefs.

VALENTINO MARTELLI, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy: Italy fully supports the European Union statement. Italy, with a vast coastal area and small islands characterized by fragile ecosystems, has enormous experience in environment-related problems. Italy’s friendship with the small island developing States (SIDS) has grown because of shared features and problems and it will continue to be a strong advocate of their needs in all forums, including the European Union and the United Nations.

Humankind recklessly endangers lives, important lands, beautiful towns, seas and landscapes. Climate change, sea level rise, land degradation and drought endanger the SIDS. These threats also increase the ranks of the poor. The Barbados Programme of Action, which had promised so much, has not led to a substantial increase in aid resources to the SIDS, nor has it been sufficiently implemented. More resources and better coordination are needed. Donor and recipient countries must pursue the same goals.

Italy has just approved financial contributions to two programmes aimed at the sustainable development of SIDS: phase two of the project of the global network of the Barbados Programme of Action (SIDSnet); and a United Nations

Department of Economic and Social Affairs programme to build capacity in public administration and civil service and to foster regional cooperation in three Caribbean SIDS. We need to tackle simpler projects and ensure quicker and more effective delivery of assistance. Contributions should not feed bloated bureaucracies and overstaffed organizations. To have a more direct and substantial impact, the focus should be on small centres and local communities.

CLEMENT LEO, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs of Vanuatu: Five years after the first small island developing States (SIDS) conference, we are here to review our efforts and to reaffirm our common will. We need to face the environment and development problems recognized at United Nations Conference on Environment and Development. It was recognized that the difficulties faced by small island States cannot be solved by these States themselves without international cooperation and assistance.

Vanuatu is small in size, it is isolated, it has a paucity of resources and natural disasters are common. Our country is vulnerable and exposed to hostile environmental conditions. Its agriculture is limited due to climate and soil conditions. Despite the difficulties, we are giving primary attention to certain areas -- to climate change and sea level rise; to waste management; to coastal and marine resource protection and management; to maintainence of fresh water; to our biodiversity resources; to legislative management and to institutional and administrative capacity.

We have made progress, albeit slowly. There are many obstacles still to be overcome. We need the support of donors, and look forward to seeing donor efforts continue into the next millennium.

RICARDO CASTANEDA-CORNEJO, Chairman of the Delegation of El Salvador: Five years after Barbados we recognize that some positive changes have been made in the environmental field, though many problems remain. Plans by the Caribbean countries to adapt to climate change, to monitor rising sea levels, to promote sustainable tourism, to take action under the Coral Reef Initiative and in fishing. We draw attention to the fact that multilateral assistance to these islands since 1994 has fallen. Central American countries and El Salvador share with the small island developing States (SIDS) a vulnerability to natural disasters. It is greatly important to redouble the efforts of the international community to deal with these problems.

Another problem facing SIDS is the issue of waste management, a big issue for these countries because of the density of population. Tourism and fishing are particular areas where this is a concern. Many SIDS suffer from a shortage of fresh water and have few options for remedying the situation. This discouraging situation falls within the context of globalization. Recent events in the liberalization of trade indicate that commercial preferences for SIDS will soon come to an end. Without them, SIDS have little hope that their products will be able to compete.

NORMAN PINO, Chairman of the Delegation of Venezuela: The Commission on Sustainable Development has stated that strong determined cooperation on the part of the international community is required to assist small island developing States (SIDS). Despite achievements, effective financing mechanisms have not been provided to allow these States access to the resources they need -- notably the new and additional resources specified in Agenda 21 and the Barbados Plan of Action. Venezuela notes the recent drop in ODA at the same time as developing countries are being asked to participate on an equal footing in international trade. We need to

strengthen the capacities of SIDS through the transfer of technology and to promote private sector investment in those States.

Venezuela has an extensive coastline and includes many islands. Its commitment to the Caribbean states is unswerving, and it actively collaborates and cooperates with them. In spite of its own economic difficulties, the Venezuelan Government has strived to contribute to the island States. We have an active programme to provide emergency assistance and to develop infrastructure.

Broader and more consistent efforts to assist small island States on the part of the international community are needed. We support the recognition of the Caribbean as a special area in the context of development, and the initiative of the Association of Caribbean States to declare it a zone of sustainable tourism.

HANS LINTON (Sweden): Sweden welcomes the determination demonstrated by small island developing States (SIDS) participating at this Special Session to mobilize resources, to facilitate participation and partnerships and to promote sustainability in their development efforts.

Sweden has a strong commitment to continued international development cooperation and we are among those four countries that meet the agreed target of 0.7% of gross domestic product (GDP) for official development assistance. To us, therefore, the steady decline in the global volume of development assistance is alarming, particularly in the context of worsening living conditions for the poorest people in the least developed countries -– some of whom live in the SIDS.

Swedish development cooperation aims at “achieving a higher standard of living and fairer conditions for poor people, to ensure that their fundamental needs are met and that they are involved in political decisions which determine the way society develops". One of the specific objectives is to promote “the farsighted management of natural resources and consideration for the environment”. Therefore, environmental sustainability is an integral part of all Swedish development cooperation.

VOLKAN VURAL (Turkey): The problems that small island developing States (SIDS) face are indeed enormous. They are clearly beyond the capacity of such vulnerable countries to tackle alone. It is true that globalization and liberalization in trade present unprecedented opportunities for most countries. Nevertheless, the economies of SIDS are liable to face great difficulties. Many fear that globalization might be a tidal wave -- albeit in a different form.

The SIDS have carried out far-reaching economic and social reform, which have affected and influenced changes in the relationships between people and their management of the natural resources around them. It is heartening to note that many SIDS score highly on the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Human Development Index. We feel that this testifies to the basic soundness of their policies.

Tourism in the twenty-first century will be the planet’s biggest industry. Along with the phenomenal growth and size, the tourism industry will also have to take on more responsibility for its extensive impacts. It is generally recognised that SIDS are more vulnerable to the impact of tourism than other destinations. More economic and technical support is therefore needed to ensure that the development of tourism in SIDS is sustainable.

AMRAIYA NAIDU (Fiji): Regrettably, very little progress has been made on the implementation of the Barbados Programme of Action. It has received little support from the international community. The developed countries should not and must not continue to be spectators, having initially agreed on the Programme of Action.

Fiji is facing a number of challenges towards the achievement of sustainable economic and social development. In response, the Parliament has approved a new strategic plan for 1999 to 2001. Sectoral policies had been realigned towards sustained natural resource utilization, development of human resource-based industries, provision of infrastructure and other essential utilities, and additional impetus on social services, such as education, health and housing. Programmes to arrest serious and increasing land degradation and threats to marine resources are also underway.

However, we find it difficult to effectively implement all plans for sustainable development when forces of globalization adversely impact our economy. Fiji calls upon the United Nations system and the international community for an equitable, rule-based international trading system. The uniqueness of small island developing States (SIDS) cannot be overemphasized. The effects of natural disasters cost millions of dollars, which otherwise could have been used for natural resource conservation and environmental concerns for sustainable development objectives. Fiji, unfortunately, does not have the capacity to attract the desired level of foreign investment, compared to other larger developing countries. One avenue widening the resource base is the exploitation of ocean resources. We call upon the international community to support our efforts in such areas as oceanic scientific research, increasing access fees for our fisheries resources, promotion and monitoring of commercial investments, policing and protection of our ocean resources and transfer of technology.

HUBERT WURTH, (Luxembourg): This special session provides the first opportunity for a summary of activities that have been taken since the establishment of the Barbados Programme of Action. Defining and implementing the decisions taken by small island developing States (SIDS) must be done with care, because those states cannot afford mistakes. Their difficulties must be highlighted.

What happens at the special session will have an impact, as the discussions have involved large numbers of delegations. Awareness of the problems of others are the trump cards of this Organization. We must combat ignorance and indifference, and ensure concrete effect is given to what we do.

Luxembourg is committed to the decisions about greenhouse gases taken in Kyoto. It plans to increase its ODA to attain the level of 0.7 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) by the year 2000, and thereafter the level will continue to rise until it reaches 1 per cent. Because of the size of our assistance, we have decided to limit the number of States with which we cooperate to 10. Cape Verde is the first of these partners. Our cooperation with Cape Verde represents the coming together of two small countries on different continents and is marked by warm and promising relations. All States must work to determine how they can contribute to our common objectives.

MOHAMMAD SAMHAN (United Arab Emirates): The holding of this special session presents a unique opportunity to analyse the qualitative and essential challenges faced by small island developing States (SIDS), at an international level. The world is now facing the needs of small island States and coastal States, since they are uniquely situated and they must be included in the list of vulnerable States.

Many States have tried to adopt measures to implement the Barbados Programme of Action, but national efforts are not sufficient. Globalization makes it difficult for them to compete on an equal footing. The United Arab Emirates has given great importance to the development of these islands and to the environmental protection of these States.

We remain worried by Iran, which has occupied three islands belonging to the United Arab Emirates, and is acting on them in such a way as to pollute the marine environment and land environment of the region and our territorial waters. Iran's practices are a violation of international law. We ask for cooperation to preserve the Gulf marine resources.

My country has tried to strengthen cooperation with other island States, so we can exchange experiences. We also provide financial and humanitarian assistance to them, to allow them to develop their natural resources. We wish to stress the need for developed countries and international financial institutions to increase all forms of assistance to these States, and we insist on the cancellation of their foreign debt.

ALYAKSANDR SYCHOV (Belarus): The world economy has become dynamic in the last decade of the century, notably as a consequence of the phenomenon of globalization. This process has delivered benefits, but has also increased the vulnerability of States and given rise to social and economic problems. This special session is, therefore, timely. Small island States face particular problems. The Secretary-General's reports on implementation of the Barbados Programme of Action have noted a range of achievements, but potential achievements have been thwarted by narrow economies. There is a need to increase international assistance, and Belarus would support such an increase.

Belarus has experience in sustainable development and would be willing to share this experience. It is pleased at the prospects for international cooperation in support of the implementation of the Barbados Programme. The process of implementation has been dynamic and donors have been active. The international community should focus on the economic and scientific potential of small island developing States (SIDS). Favourable external conditions must be created for implementation of programmes. Integrating small island States into the world economy on a just basis is most important. Actions must continue in support of the programmes, so the problems of SIDS do not get lost within the walls of United Nations.

BERND NIEHAUS (Costa Rica): Costa Rica is convinced that all countries, small and large, can and should contribute to the well-being of humanity. Costa Rica is fraternally united with the small island developing States (SIDS). Small States contain great natural resources -- the richness of coral reefs, the wildlife, animal and vegetable species that are unique in the world. Nevertheless, the responsibility for conserving these resources is not only ours. We support an international system that will reward those who protect the environment and punish those who destroy it.

The economic development of SIDS is possible and necessary. But, there are structural problems which make it difficult to achieve this objective. In order to support the development of small countries we need to create more open systems that will promote growth. We are frequently the victims of the blows of nature. In Central America, Hurricane Mitch is a recent example. The destruction caused by this hurricane has left profound scars on the economies of the Central American nations.

Small economies do not cause economic crises, but we suffer the adverse effects. We believe that we need to establish international financial mechanisms that will assist small States. Costa Rica is in favour of the creation of a contingency fund that will respond effectively to the financial emergencies of small States. Finally, Costa Rica supports the draft resolution to make the Caribbean Sea a special zone.

FELIPE PÉREZ ROQUE, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba: We are concerned to see how international economic and social problems, as well as environmental deterioration, far from being solved, are actually becoming more acute. The gap between the rich and the poor is becoming greater between countries, as well as within them. How can we speak of actions to preserve the environment in countries where poverty forces citizens to struggle for day to day survival?

Environmental damage as a result of a chaotic and totally unsustainable consumption model is advancing. It is necessary for the international community to adopt models that will allow our economies to integrate with the world economy in a sustainable fashion. In spite of the fact that Cuba has been subjected to economic and financial genocide by the United States for decades, our country has formed a policy that will help us to achieve sustainable development. Cuba attaches great importance to regional efforts to meet the goals of Barbados.

Cuba supports fully the initiative of the “Group of 77” developing countries and China to make the Caribbean a special environmental area. It is necessary for the developed countries to pay the ecological debt they have run up with the rest of humanity. We intend to continue making all possible efforts to attain the objectives of Barbados. We hope that this special session will lead to the making of decisions that will allow us to implement the decisions of Barbados in a more effective way.

LAKSHMAN KADIRGAMAR, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka: said that while my country is not a member of the Alliance of Small Island States, its development planners are preoccupied by many of the questions relating to sustainable development: energy-dependence on costly oil imports and the necessity of alternative energy sources; proper tourism management in light of environmental and cultural heritage needs; fragility of coastal ecosystems, including coral reefs; sea water seepage into sources of fresh water for household and agricultural use; rise in the level and temperature of the sea, with serious consequences for coastal communities; torrential rainfall at the wrong time of year; and the adequate management of the exclusive economic zone and the continental shelf.

There is also the awesome reality of rising seas submerging surface areas and possibly entire islands, he said. Thus the convening of the Special Session constitutes a vast and moving appeal from some 40 Member States for an understanding of the unique and very difficult circumstances of small island developing States (SIDS) and for such assistance as their fellow Member States could provide. While Sri Lanka is not in a position to be a source of funding, owing to other heavy demands on its resources, it is in a position and is eager to extend other relevant cooperation and assistance.

He said the channels for such cooperation include: the United Nations system, in particular the process of South-South cooperation; regional organizations such as in the Indian Ocean region; the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, of which the Maldives is a member; the Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation, which includes Bahrain, the Maldives,

Mauritius, Seychelles and Singapore; and the Commonwealth and its secretariat, encompassing a large number of SIDS which, like Sri Lanka, are former colonial territories.

DUMINASA KUMALO, (South Africa): The Barbados Programme of Action provides a firm and comprehensive basis for the sustainable development of small island developing States (SIDS). However, the international community is responsible for assisting SIDS in this by providing adequate resources to implement the Programme, particularly as sustainable development in SIDS is complicated by their size, limited resources, geographic dispersal, isolation and ecological fragility. Global warming and associated phenomena, such as a rising sea level, makes them more vulnerable than previously to natural disasters.

Their vulnerability is a main obstacle to sustainable development in these countries. The United Nations must facilitate an early conclusion of a vulnerability index that takes into account both the environmental and economic vulnerability of SIDS. In addition, the international system must assist SIDS in improving competitiveness, market access, diversification of economies and building their capacity to participate in multilateral trade. It is critical that the international community, including the monetary, financial and trading systems, not only recognize but address the limitations and vulnerabilities of SIDS to facilitate their integration into the world economy.

JACQUES BAUDIN, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Senegal: The Barbados Programme of Action contains a coherent set of short, medium and long-term measures which the small island developing States (SIDS) and the international community should take. Senegal notes so far that in various areas significant progress has been made in recent years. But much remains to be done. This points to the importance of increased mobilization of resources.

My delegation endorses the Secretary-General's conclusion calling for additional resources to be devoted to the Barbados programme. The SIDS are now real actors, bold actors tirelessly playing their part in a performance which is not fiction. In a world of interdependence, the natural beauty of the islands constitutes a common heritage which we must all protect.

JAIME GAMA, Minister of Foreign Affairs for Portugal: Small island states share a considerable number of disadvantages, namely small populations, narrow ranges of resources, susceptibility to natural disasters, scarce energy supplies and a loss of marine biodiversity. All these were recognised in the Barbados Programme of Action. Efforts to address them have been supported by the international community, which seems to be fully aware of their immense and indispensable cultural and biodiverse world heritage. Portugal shares the goal of sustainable development of small island States and their international participation.

Since Barbados, growing external factors have affected small island developing States (SIDS). Globalization and trade liberalization has had an undeniable impact on them, particularly those that are least developed. Portugal has assistance programmes and development policies in place focusing on some small island States, and it looks forward to developing similar relations with East Timor, as we believe it will soon be granted the right to join the group of small island States. Our bilateral programmes have been implemented within the framework of multilateral programmes.

We are satisfied with the focus of this special session and commit ourselves to the further implementation of the Barbados Programme and the opportunities for further action this session generates.

MOTSOAHAE THOMAS THABANE, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Lesotho: Lesotho fully supports the aspirations held by the small island developing States (SIDS) for economic development and improved living standards, as well as the conservation of their natural and cultural heritage. We are a small landlocked, developing country ourselves with a fragile mountain ecosystem and faced with the peculiar problems of lack of territorial access to the sea, remoteness and isolation from world markets and prohibitive transport costs associated with inadequate infrastructure. We feel the international community needs to embark on further measures to support these countries in such areas as capacity-building, transfer of environmentally sound technologies and resource mobilization.

It is our expectation that this review process will give an indication of progress achieved and more importantly identify the areas that require special attention for its further advancement. From the perspective of global sustainable development, this review process is critical, as it is likely to provide us with lessons learned and positive experiences that can be duplicated in other regions of the world.

The commitments, recommendations and measures agreed to have not been fully honored, as borne out by the fact that the special needs and vulnerabilities of the SIDS continue to impede the effective participation of these countries in the globalizing world economy. There is, therefore, an urgency in accelerating the comprehensive implementation of the Barbados Programme of Action in such areas as mobilization of adequate financial resources and the challenges posed by climate change, in particular the elimination of greenhouse gases.

AHMED SNOUSSI, Permanent Representative of Morocco: The holding of this important session of the General Assembly is proof that the international community has decided to try to implement the Barbados Programme of Action. The efforts of small island developing States (SIDS) to make progress face great difficulties. These countries deserve the assistance of the international community; because they are the custodians of important natural resources. Morocco calls on all donor countries to strengthen their cooperation with the SIDS, particularly in reversing the decrease in official development assistance funds.

It would be desirable to allow greater access by the SIDS to the international financial institutions. It was also be desirable to help them better cope with globalization. The SIDS should have preferential access to eco-technologies, so that they can conserve resources and fight pollution. Morocco would like to reiterate active solidarity towards the SIDS and encourage them to give their attention to improved South-South cooperation.

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