Statement By
Mr. Jeem S. Lippwe
Charge d'Affaires, a.i.
Permanent Mission of the
Federated States of Micronesia to the UN
Before the
28th informal meeting of the plenary on the intergovernmental negotiations on the question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council and other matters related to the Council
New York, 2 September 2009
Check Against Delivery
Mr. Chairman,
The Federated States of Micronesia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the distinguished representative of Papua New Guinea on behalf of the Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS).
We are grateful to you, Mr. Chairman, for convening today's informal plenary the primary focus of which is on the issue of United Nations Security Council membership.
In the opening round of negotiations it is fair to say that a general consensus exists for the reformation of the Security Council, and a broad agreement to a number of broad key issues that would guide the work of our renewed discussions on the reform of the Council. We believe our meeting accomplished its purpose as a forum to establish the broad construct towards a meaningful reform.
In Micronesia's view, the proposal that we share with a majority of countries speaking at these informal plenary meetings, namely an expansion in both the permanent and non-permanent categories of membership in the Security Council, is the best option for us to pursue. It would lead to a Council that is more broadly representative and reflects the political realities of today. Further, Micronesia views this proposal to be inclusive as it would also take into account the equitable geographical distribution of seats among members. While we favor the expansion in both categories, we must be mindful that an expansion does not compromise the effectiveness and efficiency of the Council. While the Council must be expanded, we must always keep in mind that as a body tasked with international peace and security, it should not be too unwieldy because that would prevent the Council from promptly and efficiently responding to international crises in the new century. Micronesia continues to support the notion that aspiring members must demonstrate the ability and capacity, as well as consistent and considerable contribution to international peace and security and to our Organization as a whole.
You were right, Mr. Chairman, when you stated in your letter of 16 July 2009 that when it comes to the issue of expansion in membership, the "expansion in both current categories", garnered the most support from delegations speaking on this issue during the earlier rounds of discussions. It is therefore our hope, Mr. Chairman, that this crucial fact is clearly reflected in your (Chairman's) report. This objective fact must also form the basis of our discussion in the next round of negotiations.
I thank you, Mr. Chairman.
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