Fiji is proud to be amongst United Nations member states that voted in 2006 for the preparations of a robust and legally biding Arms Trade Treaty in 2012, says Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama.
He told the 65th session of the United General Assembly at the Big Apple that Fiji remained committed to the work of the UN in curbing illicit trade in small and light weapons.
“Fiji has also ratified the Convention on Cluster Munitions and regards this instrument as a welcome development in humanitarianism and international disarmament,” Commodore Bainimarama said.
“Fiji also remains fully committed to international efforts against terrorism.
“In the resolution of the world’s territorial and sovereignty disputes, Fiji stands firm with all international efforts aimed at peaceful resolution through genuine dialogue processes.
“Fiji welcomes the recent resumption of direct negotiations between the leaders of Israel and Palestine and hopes for a successful outcome.”
The PM said Fiji was also an active member of the UN’s Special Political and Decolonisation Committee.
“Following our participation in the ministerial mission of the Melanesian Spearhead Group to New Caledonia this year, Fiji subsequently sponsored the UN Special Committee’s 2010 resolution on New Caledonia,” the Prime Minister said.
“We urge all concerned parties to accelerate the progress of the provisions of the Noumea Accord.
“Over the past year, the Fiji Government has effected a number of legal changes that have not only modernised our laws and brought about gender and social parity, but has also ensured compliance with international conventions.
“These changes include but are not limited to the Crimes Decree, which removes archaic rules in respect of rape trials.”