Skip to content .

Service navigation

Main Navigation

Area-Navigation

Further information

Link to slovenia.si opens in a new window

Services

Statements in International Organisations

30.05.2008

EU Presidency Closing Statement: Diplomatic Conference on Cluster Munitions

Delivered by Ms. Irina Gorsic, Minister Counsellor Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia

Mr. President,
  1. In my capacity as Presidency of the European Union, I would like to commend  you and the Government of Ireland for the results of this Diplomatic Conference. I extend this appreciation to all participating States and all observers, including civil society. After two weeks of work and intensive consultations we have just adopted a text for a convention banning cluster munitions that cause unacceptable harm to civilians. We call upon all those States which support this Convention to strive for its universalisation.
  2. The EU has repeatedly expressed the need to address urgently the humanitarian problems posed by these weapons and the need to conclude a legally binding instrument by the end of 2008.  The text in front of us, which reflects the numerous views and concerns expressed over these two weeks, will have a tremendous positive influence on the ground and does respond to the calls made by victims for a safer and better world. It provides a comprehensive framework for international cooperation and victim assistance and imposes strict destruction obligations on countries currently holding these weapons in their stockpiles.
  3. At the same time as welcoming the new convention,  the EU will continue to participate in parallel efforts within the CCW. These efforts are supported by all EU Member States, as well as by some major stakeholders which have not participated in our work here in Dublin.
  4. Finally, I congratulate you for the skilful way in which you undertook the work of the Conference during these two weeks. I extend my gratitude to all the members of your team and to all the facilitators who contributed to the success of our work.

Thank you

 

Accessibility     . Print     .


Date: 12.06.2008