Foreign Minister Jan Petersen’s statement during the General Debate of the 58th UN General Assembly

Foreign Minister Jan Petersen delivered Norway’s statement in the General Debate of the 58 ^th> General Assembly today. He focused particularly in the situation in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Middle East.

The Foreign Minister emphasised that the time has now come to focus on economic and political reconstruction that will benefit the people of Iraq. The UN should play a key role in facilitating a rapid political process towards a new constitution and a democratically elected Iraqi government. Mr Petersen also cautioned against assigning the UN tasks it cannot deal with.

"It is unacceptable that UN personnel are unable to conduct humanitarian relief operations without risking their lives," he said.

"Unless the security needs in Iraq are met, valuable time on the road to political stability, democracy, and economic and social development will be lost. Without a safe and secure environment, the United Nations is unable to help Iraq along that road," he added.

Mr Petersen noted that the UN is facing a formidable task in its efforts to promote security, development and human rights.

"By fighting poverty and promoting peace and development, we are making the soundest investment possible in Africa," he said, and confirmed that Norway will stand by the commitments set out in the Millennium Declaration.

The Foreign Minister emphasised that multilateralism has come under pressure and stressed the need for reforms in the UN system. He said that Member States must take this issue seriously, and that Norway stands ready to assist the Secretary-General in this effort.

"The aims and ideals of the United Nations enshrined in the UN Charter are as relevant today as they were when they were conceived in 1945. But whereas the world has changed since then, the United Nations has not changed with it," said Foreign Minister Petersen.