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President Ilves speaks at the United Nations General Assembly

25.09.2009

Today, the 25th September 2009, President Toomas Hendrik Ilves delivered a speech at the 64th Session of United Nations General Assembly, focusing on Estonia`s view in world politics.

In his speech, the Head of State drew attention to the fact that even a year later the global economic crisis influences all of us on both the domestic and international level.

“Today, a year after the collapse of the financial markets, cyclical indicators point to economic stabilisation. The crisis is not over, however, and the need to restore confidence and repair the financial system remains. Moreover, each of us should make an effort to refrain from raising new barriers to avoid laying the foundations for new global imbalances in the longer run,” said President Ilves.

When speaking about the economic crisis, the Head of State also said that we should not forget other important global concerns: climate change, utilising green and renewable energy, international security, including cyber security, ensuring stability in Afghanistan, providing equitable humanitarian aid, and gender equality.

President Ilves also recalled the last years` conflict between Russia and Georgia. “I would like to reiterate our firm support for the security and stability of Georgia, based on full respect for the principles of independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

According to the Estonian Head of State, all nations should uphold the core principles of the UN Charter, making it possible for this organisation to fulfil its unique role in safeguarding international security.

“Compliance with the basic principles enshrined in the UN Charter, including the obligation of all Members to refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, needs to remain the fundamental basis of the United Nations agenda,” stressed President Ilves.

The President especially drew attention to cyber attacks, which are a wider international issue and can be fought through the cross-boarder co-operative efforts of governmental institutions and the private sector. President Ilves said that one important cornerstone for cyber security was relevant legislation which would help create a cyber culture.

When speaking about the situation in Afghanistan, the Head of State mentioned recently held elections there, acknowledging that only the Afghans themselves can change their situation and the international community can and should support Afghanistan. Estonia is a country that has continuingly contributed to the development of Afghanistan, supporting it with military and civilian missions, added President Ilves.

“The future of Afghanistan lies in the hands of the Afghan people; we, the international community, can only help,” said President Ilves.

The Head of State called upon states to change humanitarian aid systems to become more flexible and needs-based. He also expressed a concern that in conflict situations aid might not always reach the victims.

 

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