Summary report, 7 November 1994

On Monday, 7 November 1994, the General Assembly held its debate on Agenda Item89(e), the Global Conference on the Sustainable Development of Small IslandDeveloping States (SIDS). On 13 October 1994, the General Assembly decided tohold the debate on this sub-item in the Plenary on the understanding that actionwould take place in the Second Committee. The Plenary had before it the followingdocuments: the report of the Conference, which took place from 25 April - 6 May1994 (document A/CONF.167/9); the report of the Secretary-General on action takento implement the programme of action (A/49/425 and Add.1); and studies by UNDPon the feasibility of developing SIDS/TAP, a technical assistance programme forSIDS to promote inter- and intra-regional cooperation for sustainable development(A/49/459), and on the feasibility of developing SIDS/NET, an information networkfor SIDS (A/49/414).

ALGERIA: On behalf of the G-77 and China, Amb. Ramtane Lamamra said thatthe SIDS Conference was the first of its type in sustainable development andrepresents an important follow-up to UNCED. While it is clear that the specificimplementation of the Programme of Action is the primary responsibility of SIDS,the efforts of these countries alone are insignificant without support from theinternational community, including the UN system. It is essential to establishwithin the Department for Policy Coordination and Sustainable Development (DPCSD)a qualified and competent entity that could provide secretariat services tointergovernmental and inter-agency coordination in implementation of theProgramme of Action.

GERMANY: On behalf of the EU and Austria, Gerhard Walter Henze said thatin adopting the Programme of Action in Barbados, the international community hastaken an important step towards implementing the commitments of Rio and Agenda21. The EU hopes that the Programme of Action will assist SIDS on the path tosustainable development by enhancing their international competitiveness andreducing their economic instability and ecological fragility. The role of theprivate sector and NGOs in the implementation of the Programme of Action isimportant. The report of the Secretary-General on progress since Rio indicatesthat the UN agencies are in the process of reorienting their programmes toimplement this strategy. Substantial financial and technical support is beingprovided by the EU and its member States. 620 million ECUs (US$775 million) arebeing channeled through the Lom‚ Convention. He called for a lasting commitmenton the part of all parties involved, improved regional cooperation, and donorcoordination to ensure effective implementation of the Programme of Action.

BARBADOS: Richard Cheltenham, Minister of Tourism, International Transportand the Environment, on behalf of the Caribbean Community, said that the BarbadosConference was significant because it was the first follow-up process to the RioSummit and because it marked the first time that a full-fledged UN Conference hasbeen held in so small a member State. The process begun in Barbados representsthe efforts of SIDS to translate the Rio goals into reality in response to theirspecial circumstances. He urged the international community to give its fullendorsement to the two outcomes of the Conference -- the Programme of Action andthe Barbados Declaration. It is vital that the UN Secretariat, through the DPCSD,be equipped to fulfill the monitoring and coordination mandate assigned to it inthe Programme of Action. A complementary response capacity within the relevantoperational organizations and programmes of the UN system must also beestablished. He also highlighted the role of the CSD for monitoring and reviewingthe implementation of the Programme of Action, and the importance of inter-agencycollaboration. He welcomed the reports submitted by UNDP on SIDS/NET andSIDS/TAP.

ICELAND: Amb. Gunnar P lsson, on behalf of the Nordic countries, said thatthe main accomplishment of the Conference was the adoption of the Programme ofAction. It is both ambitious and comprehensive and focuses on practical stepsat the national, regional and international levels to address crucialenvironmental and development concerns of SIDS. It identifies realistic meansand measures for increasing the capacity of SIDS to cope effectively with theirenvironmental and development problems.

INDIA: M.P. Chandrajeet Yadav said that India has set up an IslandDevelopment Authority to formulate policies and programmes for ecologicallysound, suitable and integrated development of the relatively remote islands inIndia that sustain small communities. In India's experience, the creation of jobsfor ecological restoration is a marginal investment with significant returns.Decentralization and involvement of local communities is an effective way ofmanaging the process. Advances in scientific understanding of nature andprocesses need to be shared with the more isolated communities. The internationalcommunity must determine how it can help reduce the vulnerabilities of SIDS tonatural and economic uncertainties. The challenge is to integrate SIDS into theglobal economic system, while ensuring self-sustaining development.

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO: On behalf of the Alliance of Small Island States(AOSIS), Amb. Annette des Iles expressed her appreciation to UNDP for the promptand timely submission of the two studies. But she noted that the Secretariat didnot act with similar dispatch in processing and disseminating these studies. Theimplementation of the Programme of Action must be pursued at three levels. At thenational level, the collective efforts of governments and all groups in society,including women, youth and NGOs, must be harnessed. At the regional level,cooperation is needed within and between regions. However, actions taken by smallislands will not guarantee the attaininment of the objectives of sustainabledevelopment without assistance from the international community. With the fullimplementation of SIDS/TAP, each State will be able to devise strategies toaddress common problems. SIDS/NET could create a concrete and practicalinformation sharing programme. These two programmes should be implemented beforethe 50th anniversary of the UN. She also called for the UN regional commissionsto concretize their support to SIDS. Within the DPCSD, a clearly identifiable,qualified entity should be put in place to provide secretariat support foractivities emanating from the implementation of the Programme of Action.

CHINA: Amb. Wang Xuexian said that both the Programme of Action and theBarbados Declaration called on the international community, especially thedeveloped countries and the relevant international agencies, to provide necessaryfinancial resources and technologies. Serious factors have constrained theefforts of SIDS to sustain their development. Many of the problems that they haveto face in their economic development and environmental protection are not oftheir own making, nor can they be solved by these countries alone. Consequently,the international community should attach importance to this issue. The developedcountries have a great responsibility in this respect.

REPUBLIC OF KOREA: The representative highlighted the role of the uniqueecosystems of SIDS as both a source of income generation and a safeguard ofbiological diversity. The two major threats to the sustainable development ofSIDS are internal development activities and the environmentally unsoundactivities of the external world. Resources may be overexploited for the basicsubsistence of the people, but the external factors are more detrimental and canincrease the frequency and intensity of environmental disasters. He added thatthe development of human resources should be given the highest priority since thelong-term sustainable development of SIDS depends ultimately on the islands'inhabitants themselves.

AUSTRALIA: On behalf of the South Pacific Forum member States, Amb.Richard Butler said that the implementation of the Barbados Programme of Actionrequires a partnership between governmental and non-governmental organizationsand international and national communities. Congratulations can come later, whenthe Programme of Action is effectively implemented. The island countries of theSouth Pacific have put into effect the commitments undertaken in the Programmeof Action, including national environmental legislation and environmentalmanagement strategies. A regional mechanism to coordinate and facilitate theimplementation of the Programme of Action has now been established with theconvening of an advisory committee of high officials, in conjunction with SPREPand ESCAP. He noted UNDP's feasibility studies for SIDS/NET and SIDS/TAP, whichare valuable contributions to implementing the outcomes of the Conference. It isunfortunate that these reports were not translated and circulated moreexpeditiously. He urged the international community to meet the commitments ofboth Rio and Barbados.

NEW ZEALAND: Amb. Colin Keating said the Barbados Conference was widelyviewed as a test of post-UNCED acceptance of global responsibility. Thesuccessful adoption of the Programme of Action represents an enormousachievement, but the international community must ensure that the effort put intoBarbados is carried forward. Although the primary responsibility forimplementation of the Programme of Action rests with SIDS themselves, they needregional and international support to make it happen. Development assistanceshould be managed in partnership with recipient governments. Strong regionalcooperation and robust regional institutions are essential. He called on the UNsystem to give higher priority to developing implementation strategies for theProgramme of Action. At this session of the General Assembly, a dedicated unitfor SIDS must be established within the DPCSD. The General Assembly must alsogive initial consideration to the UNDP feasibility studies for SIDS/NET andSIDS/TAP.

CANADA: Amb. Louise Fr‚chette welcomed the successful conclusion of theBarbados Conference and said that it is a model for operationalizing Agenda 21and adapting it to a particular set of circumstances. SIDS face a uniqueenvironmental and development situation and the Programme of Action and theDeclaration provide road maps for securing their future. To get there, however,the international community will need to follow through and carry out the actionsenvisaged, and Canada is ready to continue its assistance aimed at environmentalmanagement and protection, and to help build capacity in enhancing economiccooperation.

SAMOA: Amb. Tuiloma Neroni Slade said that for the first time small Statesengaged the international community in an informed dialogue to map out the scopeand priorities of the development of their islands. The Programme of Action isa blueprint for a global effort and incorporates a realistic and practicaltripartite approach of national, regional and international actions. Effectiveimplementation will be the true test of commitment and he warned against thesevere blow to the post-Rio optimism that he feared would be induced by theabsence of concrete commitments from the international community. While SIDS havebeen encouraged to explore "existing financial resources," they do not know what"existing financial resources" are there, how they should tap into them, and howthe UN should address the question of development resources management andeffective programme delivery and implementation. He expressed his appreciationfor the work of UNDP on SIDS/NET and SIDS/TAP and highlighted the manner in whichthe effort had been undertaken, including the full consultation with SIDS, theutilization of existing structures, the emphasis on capacity- improvement and theattention given to the requirements for suitability, efficiency andself-reliance.

PHILIPPINES: The representative noted that the Philippines contains over7,100 small islands and understands the concerns of SIDS. The SIDS Conference wasthe first test of the commitments made in Rio. He noted the vulnerabilities ofSIDS to the international economic climate, natural disasters and tourism. Hestressed the need to establish vulnerability indices. Important follow-up issuesinclude the provision of financial resources and the transfer of environmentallysound technology. No matter how exquisite the small islands, it is still theindividual person who is at the center of development.

FIJI: Graham E. Leung said that there is a real sense that when all therhetoric is analyzed, little new financial assistance is there for the SIDS. Thesincerity towards fulfilling the commitments of the Earth Summit are now beingcalled into question. History will not judge the success of Barbados on thenumber of statements made, but the commitments fulfilled. The Conference was notthe success it could have been. While Fiji welcomes the acknowledgment of theunique characteristics of SIDS, recognition itself will not solve all theproblems. The Barbados Conference did have valuable and constructive outcomes,such as UNDP's preparation of the feasibility studies for SIDS/TAP and SIDS/NET.The Declaration and Programme of Action are also significant achievements thatcan serve as a blueprint for SIDS to realize the goals of sustainabledevelopment. The international community must now continue to ensure that greatereffort is made to implement the Programme of Action.

SINGAPORE: Amb. Chew Tai Soo highlighted the special vulnerability factorsconfronting SIDS, which illustrate the special problems faced in the pursuit ofeconomic and social development. It is crucial for the international communityto implement the Programme of Action since the problems of developed countriespale in comparison to those of developing countries. He emphasized the importanceof the speedy establishment of an entity within the DPCSD and to ensure thatsufficient resources are made available for the implementation of the Programmeof Action.

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA: Amb. Lionel Hurst addressed the formulation of arange of indicators of economic and ecological vulnerability that are needed tomeasure sustainable development in a way that the "crude" GNP per capita devicecannot. This device does not reflect the dis-economy of scale caused by the smallsize of SIDS. The emerging Vulnerability Index is not intended for use as ayardstick of poverty or wealth, rather it will be a measurement device for thelack of economic resilience arising from the relative inability of a country toshelter itself from forces outside its control.

MARSHALL ISLANDS: Amb. Laurence N. Edwards supported the statements madeon behalf of the G-77, AOSIS and the South Pacific Forum States. He expressed hissatisfaction to see that finally the World's attention was placed on SIDS, sincehe feels that this group of countries is neglected in the UN family of nations.He also expressed his disappointment at the low level of turn-out from thedeveloped countries in Barbados, since this was after all supposed to be aConference on, and not of, SIDS. The goals of the Programme of Action cannot beimplemented without the assistance of the international community and the fundingaspects are an entirely inadequate section of the Programme. He urged thedeveloped countries to extend some of their ODA to SIDS and supported the callby the G-77 to ensure that the target of 0.7% of GNP for ODA is achieved. Hecommended the work carried out by the UNDP on SIDS/NET and SIDS/TAP and calledfor the creation of an appropriate entity within the DPCSD.

FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA: The representative endorsed the statementsmade by the G-77, AOSIS and the South Pacific Forum States. He said that a lotof effort had been put in the negotiation of the Programme of Action, but itsimplementation will be a tremendous task and will require the assistance of theinternational community, particularly the developed States. Many of themechanisms of the UNCED implementation are in place and the DPCSD should be hometo the focal point for the implementation of the Programme of Action. Thethematic work of the CSD should effectively integrate the outcomes of theConference.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA: The representative said that the Conference representsa milestone for the promises of Rio, but that the survival of SIDS depends on thecooperation of the international community. He welcomed the work of UNDP onSIDS/NET and SIDS/TAP, as well as the joint effort of UNDP, the UN Commission onHuman Settlements and the World Bank on urban settlements. Papua New Guinea isstrongly involved in the preparations of a regional convention on thetransboundary movements of hazardous wastes and other efforts relating tointer-island transportation. He said he looked forward to the report of the CSDand encouraged UN agencies to give greater consideration to the implementationof the Programme of Action.

JAPAN: Amb. Shunji Maruyama said that the Barbados Programme of Action andDeclaration are landmarks on the road from Rio and provide fresh impetus to thework of the international community on the sustainable development of SIDS. TheConference was the first step and now it is time for implementation. TheProgramme of Action emphasizes the importance of human resources development andthe need to enhance institutional and administrative capacity. This is anorientation that is in accord with Japanese development assistance policy. Hethanked the Secretary-General and UNDP for their reports. It is vital to conducta continuing review of plans and programmes. Japan also supports SIDS/NET andSIDS/TAP as a means of achieving South-South cooperation.

MALTA: Walter Balzan said that the SIDS Conference was the first concretestep in the implementation of the results of Rio. Investment in the humanresources of SIDS has consistently yielded high dividends. Malta welcomes theinclusion in the Programme of Action of its proposal to set up a vulnerabilityindex. Barbados does not mark the end of an exercise. It signals the commencementof an on-going process that monitors and ensures that the results obtained areconsolidated and enhanced upon.

GUYANA: Neil Pierre said that UNCED was unequivocal in its emphasis on theunique nature and vulnerability of small island States and those of low-lyingcoastal regions. The task is now to pursue with vigor and enthusiasm the full andurgent implementation of the agreements and decisions of the Conference. Butimportant as they are, these agreements will amount to very little unlessappropriate mechanisms are established for effective monitoring andimplementation on a system-wide basis. This responsibility should beappropriately located within the DPCSD, as provided for in the Programme ofAction.

BAHAMAS: Amb. Harcourt Turnquest said that the Programme of Actionrepresents a blueprint for a comprehensive and integrated approach to sustainabledevelopment, but that its successful implementation will need the full supportof the DPCSD. In this regard, the necessary resources must be provided to theSecretariat so that it may fulfill the functions outlined in paragraph 123 ofthe Programme of Action. He welcomed the quick response of UNDP on SIDS/NET andSIDS/TAP, but he highlighted the fact that SIDS themselves should be the primarygenerators of information for the network. He was particularly pleased with themanner in which the feasibility studies were prepared, in association with themembers of AOSIS themselves.

CYPRUS: Amb. Alecos Shambos said that the Conference can be characterizedas a success, however, recognition and awareness alone do not suffice to cure theacute problems faced by SIDS. Degradation of the environment, vulnerabilitiesto climate change and sea-level rise, and threats to unique ecosystems emergeas issues of great concern. Their mostly single product markets, small size andremoteness, small scale economies, lack of adequate endogenous capacity, andexposure to pollution and natural disasters further aggravate the overallchallenges confronting SIDS. He urged the international community to work jointlyto fulfill its obligations to present and future generations.

BRAZIL: Amb. Ronaldo Mota Sardenberg said that the characteristics of SIDShave made the international community recognize their significance to our planet.He noted that the international community is apparently still unwilling to meetthe financial obligations of both Rio and Bridgetown. Less than 10% of thefunding for environment-related programmes and projects agreed at UNCED have beenhonored. He welcomed the UNDP feasibility studies and expressed confidence thatsimilar studies will be prepared so that effective action can be taken toimplement the Barbados Programme of Action. Given appropriate assistance from theinternational community, SIDS can and will implement relevant plans andprogrammes to support their development.

VENEZUELA: The representative said that his country shares some of theSIDS responsibilities and commitments. He highlighted the need for more fundingfor the implementation of the Programme of Action. He added that Venezuela iscommitted to the Barbados Declaration and considers itself bound by the Programmeof Action. Human resources are the greatest assets of SIDS.

MALAYSIA: Amb. Razali Ismail said that it was urgent to address the issueof the survival of SIDS. The Programme of Action provides a blueprint for theirsustainable development and while all the countries need to make the transitionto sustainable development, the bulk of the burden of change should not be placedon the developing countries, including SIDS. Developed countries already possessand enjoy competitive advantages, compared with the severe handicaps of SIDS. Thesecurity of small States has been discussed in other fora and the economic,ecological and security challenges confronting SIDS must be effectively addressedto ensure their continued well-being.

UNITED STATES: Herman Gallegos said the Barbados Conference establishedan agenda to which the US is committed. The US will work with the internationalcommunity to follow up the Conference. The US is working to ensure theparticipation of developed and developing countries, international andnon-governmental organizations, academia and the private sector in this effort.In considering the issues of sustainable development in SIDS, there is nosubstitute for private sector economic growth. It is the private sector that willultimately determine the failure or success of a policy. In addition to its coralreef initiative, the US will follow up the Conference through bilateralprogrammes and multilateral assistance agencies, and ensure that the CSDundertakes the important reviews that will be necessary for the implementationof the Programme of Action.

PAKISTAN: The representative said that although Pakistan is not a smallisland, it shares many of the problems confronting SIDS. Pakistan is convincedthat the implementation of the recommendations of the Barbados Conference willgo a long way towards achieving sustainable development objectives. Since Rio,however, environmental degradation has continued unabated. Pakistan is committedto making sustainable development a reality. The developed countries have animportant role to play in the implementation of the Programme of Action and inassisting SIDS.

RUSSIAN FEDERATION: The representative said that the Programme of Actionhas a practical significance for preserving the ecosystems and stimulating theeconomies of SIDS. He also highlighted the importance of developing the humanresources potential. He said his country was ready to establish cooperation withthe small island States. He hoped that the Programme of Action will beaccompanied by the necessary political will for effective implementation.

DEBATE ON THE GLOBAL CONFERENCE ON THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF SMALL ISLAND DEVELOPING STATES

On Monday, 7 November 1994, the General Assembly held its debate on Agenda Item89(e), the Global Conference on the Sustainable Development of Small IslandDeveloping States (SIDS). On 13 October 1994, the General Assembly decided tohold the debate on this sub-item in the Plenary on the understanding that actionwould take place in the Second Committee. The Plenary had before it the followingdocuments: the report of the Conference, which took place from 25 April - 6 May1994 (document A/CONF.167/9); the report of the Secretary-General on action takento implement the programme of action (A/49/425 and Add.1); and studies by UNDPon the feasibility of developing SIDS/TAP, a technical assistance programme forSIDS to promote inter- and intra-regional cooperation for sustainable development(A/49/459), and on the feasibility of developing SIDS/NET, an information networkfor SIDS (A/49/414).

ALGERIA: On behalf of the G-77 and China, Amb. Ramtane Lamamra said thatthe SIDS Conference was the first of its type in sustainable development andrepresents an important follow-up to UNCED. While it is clear that the specificimplementation of the Programme of Action is the primary responsibility of SIDS,the efforts of these countries alone are insignificant without support from theinternational community, including the UN system. It is essential to establishwithin the Department for Policy Coordination and Sustainable Development (DPCSD)a qualified and competent entity that could provide secretariat services tointergovernmental and inter-agency coordination in implementation of theProgramme of Action.

GERMANY: On behalf of the EU and Austria, Gerhard Walter Henze said thatin adopting the Programme of Action in Barbados, the international community hastaken an important step towards implementing the commitments of Rio and Agenda21. The EU hopes that the Programme of Action will assist SIDS on the path tosustainable development by enhancing their international competitiveness andreducing their economic instability and ecological fragility. The role of theprivate sector and NGOs in the implementation of the Programme of Action isimportant. The report of the Secretary-General on progress since Rio indicatesthat the UN agencies are in the process of reorienting their programmes toimplement this strategy. Substantial financial and technical support is beingprovided by the EU and its member States. 620 million ECUs (US$775 million) arebeing channeled through the Lom‚ Convention. He called for a lasting commitmenton the part of all parties involved, improved regional cooperation, and donorcoordination to ensure effective implementation of the Programme of Action.

BARBADOS: Richard Cheltenham, Minister of Tourism, International Transportand the Environment, on behalf of the Caribbean Community, said that the BarbadosConference was significant because it was the first follow-up process to the RioSummit and because it marked the first time that a full-fledged UN Conference hasbeen held in so small a member State. The process begun in Barbados representsthe efforts of SIDS to translate the Rio goals into reality in response to theirspecial circumstances. He urged the international community to give its fullendorsement to the two outcomes of the Conference -- the Programme of Action andthe Barbados Declaration. It is vital that the UN Secretariat, through the DPCSD,be equipped to fulfill the monitoring and coordination mandate assigned to it inthe Programme of Action. A complementary response capacity within the relevantoperational organizations and programmes of the UN system must also beestablished. He also highlighted the role of the CSD for monitoring and reviewingthe implementation of the Programme of Action, and the importance of inter-agencycollaboration. He welcomed the reports submitted by UNDP on SIDS/NET andSIDS/TAP.

ICELAND: Amb. Gunnar P lsson, on behalf of the Nordic countries, said thatthe main accomplishment of the Conference was the adoption of the Programme ofAction. It is both ambitious and comprehensive and focuses on practical stepsat the national, regional and international levels to address crucialenvironmental and development concerns of SIDS. It identifies realistic meansand measures for increasing the capacity of SIDS to cope effectively with theirenvironmental and development problems.

INDIA: M.P. Chandrajeet Yadav said that India has set up an IslandDevelopment Authority to formulate policies and programmes for ecologicallysound, suitable and integrated development of the relatively remote islands inIndia that sustain small communities. In India's experience, the creation of jobsfor ecological restoration is a marginal investment with significant returns.Decentralization and involvement of local communities is an effective way ofmanaging the process. Advances in scientific understanding of nature andprocesses need to be shared with the more isolated communities. The internationalcommunity must determine how it can help reduce the vulnerabilities of SIDS tonatural and economic uncertainties. The challenge is to integrate SIDS into theglobal economic system, while ensuring self-sustaining development.

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO: On behalf of the Alliance of Small Island States(AOSIS), Amb. Annette des Iles expressed her appreciation to UNDP for the promptand timely submission of the two studies. But she noted that the Secretariat didnot act with similar dispatch in processing and disseminating these studies. Theimplementation of the Programme of Action must be pursued at three levels. At thenational level, the collective efforts of governments and all groups in society,including women, youth and NGOs, must be harnessed. At the regional level,cooperation is needed within and between regions. However, actions taken by smallislands will not guarantee the attaininment of the objectives of sustainabledevelopment without assistance from the international community. With the fullimplementation of SIDS/TAP, each State will be able to devise strategies toaddress common problems. SIDS/NET could create a concrete and practicalinformation sharing programme. These two programmes should be implemented beforethe 50th anniversary of the UN. She also called for the UN regional commissionsto concretize their support to SIDS. Within the DPCSD, a clearly identifiable,qualified entity should be put in place to provide secretariat support foractivities emanating from the implementation of the Programme of Action.

CHINA: Amb. Wang Xuexian said that both the Programme of Action and theBarbados Declaration called on the international community, especially thedeveloped countries and the relevant international agencies, to provide necessaryfinancial resources and technologies. Serious factors have constrained theefforts of SIDS to sustain their development. Many of the problems that they haveto face in their economic development and environmental protection are not oftheir own making, nor can they be solved by these countries alone. Consequently,the international community should attach importance to this issue. The developedcountries have a great responsibility in this respect.

REPUBLIC OF KOREA: The representative highlighted the role of the uniqueecosystems of SIDS as both a source of income generation and a safeguard ofbiological diversity. The two major threats to the sustainable development ofSIDS are internal development activities and the environmentally unsoundactivities of the external world. Resources may be overexploited for the basicsubsistence of the people, but the external factors are more detrimental and canincrease the frequency and intensity of environmental disasters. He added thatthe development of human resources should be given the highest priority since thelong-term sustainable development of SIDS depends ultimately on the islands'inhabitants themselves.

AUSTRALIA: On behalf of the South Pacific Forum member States, Amb.Richard Butler said that the implementation of the Barbados Programme of Actionrequires a partnership between governmental and non-governmental organizationsand international and national communities. Congratulations can come later, whenthe Programme of Action is effectively implemented. The island countries of theSouth Pacific have put into effect the commitments undertaken in the Programmeof Action, including national environmental legislation and environmentalmanagement strategies. A regional mechanism to coordinate and facilitate theimplementation of the Programme of Action has now been established with theconvening of an advisory committee of high officials, in conjunction with SPREPand ESCAP. He noted UNDP's feasibility studies for SIDS/NET and SIDS/TAP, whichare valuable contributions to implementing the outcomes of the Conference. It isunfortunate that these reports were not translated and circulated moreexpeditiously. He urged the international community to meet the commitments ofboth Rio and Barbados.

NEW ZEALAND: Amb. Colin Keating said the Barbados Conference was widelyviewed as a test of post-UNCED acceptance of global responsibility. Thesuccessful adoption of the Programme of Action represents an enormousachievement, but the international community must ensure that the effort put intoBarbados is carried forward. Although the primary responsibility forimplementation of the Programme of Action rests with SIDS themselves, they needregional and international support to make it happen. Development assistanceshould be managed in partnership with recipient governments. Strong regionalcooperation and robust regional institutions are essential. He called on the UNsystem to give higher priority to developing implementation strategies for theProgramme of Action. At this session of the General Assembly, a dedicated unitfor SIDS must be established within the DPCSD. The General Assembly must alsogive initial consideration to the UNDP feasibility studies for SIDS/NET andSIDS/TAP.

CANADA: Amb. Louise Fr‚chette welcomed the successful conclusion of theBarbados Conference and said that it is a model for operationalizing Agenda 21and adapting it to a particular set of circumstances. SIDS face a uniqueenvironmental and development situation and the Programme of Action and theDeclaration provide road maps for securing their future. To get there, however,the international community will need to follow through and carry out the actionsenvisaged, and Canada is ready to continue its assistance aimed at environmentalmanagement and protection, and to help build capacity in enhancing economiccooperation.

SAMOA: Amb. Tuiloma Neroni Slade said that for the first time small Statesengaged the international community in an informed dialogue to map out the scopeand priorities of the development of their islands. The Programme of Action isa blueprint for a global effort and incorporates a realistic and practicaltripartite approach of national, regional and international actions. Effectiveimplementation will be the true test of commitment and he warned against thesevere blow to the post-Rio optimism that he feared would be induced by theabsence of concrete commitments from the international community. While SIDS havebeen encouraged to explore "existing financial resources," they do not know what"existing financial resources" are there, how they should tap into them, and howthe UN should address the question of development resources management andeffective programme delivery and implementation. He expressed his appreciationfor the work of UNDP on SIDS/NET and SIDS/TAP and highlighted the manner in whichthe effort had been undertaken, including the full consultation with SIDS, theutilization of existing structures, the emphasis on capacity- improvement and theattention given to the requirements for suitability, efficiency andself-reliance.

PHILIPPINES: The representative noted that the Philippines contains over7,100 small islands and understands the concerns of SIDS. The SIDS Conference wasthe first test of the commitments made in Rio. He noted the vulnerabilities ofSIDS to the international economic climate, natural disasters and tourism. Hestressed the need to establish vulnerability indices. Important follow-up issuesinclude the provision of financial resources and the transfer of environmentallysound technology. No matter how exquisite the small islands, it is still theindividual person who is at the center of development.

FIJI: Graham E. Leung said that there is a real sense that when all therhetoric is analyzed, little new financial assistance is there for the SIDS. Thesincerity towards fulfilling the commitments of the Earth Summit are now beingcalled into question. History will not judge the success of Barbados on thenumber of statements made, but the commitments fulfilled. The Conference was notthe success it could have been. While Fiji welcomes the acknowledgment of theunique characteristics of SIDS, recognition itself will not solve all theproblems. The Barbados Conference did have valuable and constructive outcomes,such as UNDP's preparation of the feasibility studies for SIDS/TAP and SIDS/NET.The Declaration and Programme of Action are also significant achievements thatcan serve as a blueprint for SIDS to realize the goals of sustainabledevelopment. The international community must now continue to ensure that greatereffort is made to implement the Programme of Action.

SINGAPORE: Amb. Chew Tai Soo highlighted the special vulnerability factorsconfronting SIDS, which illustrate the special problems faced in the pursuit ofeconomic and social development. It is crucial for the international communityto implement the Programme of Action since the problems of developed countriespale in comparison to those of developing countries. He emphasized the importanceof the speedy establishment of an entity within the DPCSD and to ensure thatsufficient resources are made available for the implementation of the Programmeof Action.

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA: Amb. Lionel Hurst addressed the formulation of arange of indicators of economic and ecological vulnerability that are needed tomeasure sustainable development in a way that the "crude" GNP per capita devicecannot. This device does not reflect the dis-economy of scale caused by the smallsize of SIDS. The emerging Vulnerability Index is not intended for use as ayardstick of poverty or wealth, rather it will be a measurement device for thelack of economic resilience arising from the relative inability of a country toshelter itself from forces outside its control.

MARSHALL ISLANDS: Amb. Laurence N. Edwards supported the statements madeon behalf of the G-77, AOSIS and the South Pacific Forum States. He expressed hissatisfaction to see that finally the World's attention was placed on SIDS, sincehe feels that this group of countries is neglected in the UN family of nations.He also expressed his disappointment at the low level of turn-out from thedeveloped countries in Barbados, since this was after all supposed to be aConference on, and not of, SIDS. The goals of the Programme of Action cannot beimplemented without the assistance of the international community and the fundingaspects are an entirely inadequate section of the Programme. He urged thedeveloped countries to extend some of their ODA to SIDS and supported the callby the G-77 to ensure that the target of 0.7% of GNP for ODA is achieved. Hecommended the work carried out by the UNDP on SIDS/NET and SIDS/TAP and calledfor the creation of an appropriate entity within the DPCSD.

FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA: The representative endorsed the statementsmade by the G-77, AOSIS and the South Pacific Forum States. He said that a lotof effort had been put in the negotiation of the Programme of Action, but itsimplementation will be a tremendous task and will require the assistance of theinternational community, particularly the developed States. Many of themechanisms of the UNCED implementation are in place and the DPCSD should be hometo the focal point for the implementation of the Programme of Action. Thethematic work of the CSD should effectively integrate the outcomes of theConference.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA: The representative said that the Conference representsa milestone for the promises of Rio, but that the survival of SIDS depends on thecooperation of the international community. He welcomed the work of UNDP onSIDS/NET and SIDS/TAP, as well as the joint effort of UNDP, the UN Commission onHuman Settlements and the World Bank on urban settlements. Papua New Guinea isstrongly involved in the preparations of a regional convention on thetransboundary movements of hazardous wastes and other efforts relating tointer-island transportation. He said he looked forward to the report of the CSDand encouraged UN agencies to give greater consideration to the implementationof the Programme of Action.

JAPAN: Amb. Shunji Maruyama said that the Barbados Programme of Action andDeclaration are landmarks on the road from Rio and provide fresh impetus to thework of the international community on the sustainable development of SIDS. TheConference was the first step and now it is time for implementation. TheProgramme of Action emphasizes the importance of human resources development andthe need to enhance institutional and administrative capacity. This is anorientation that is in accord with Japanese development assistance policy. Hethanked the Secretary-General and UNDP for their reports. It is vital to conducta continuing review of plans and programmes. Japan also supports SIDS/NET andSIDS/TAP as a means of achieving South-South cooperation.

MALTA: Walter Balzan said that the SIDS Conference was the first concretestep in the implementation of the results of Rio. Investment in the humanresources of SIDS has consistently yielded high dividends. Malta welcomes theinclusion in the Programme of Action of its proposal to set up a vulnerabilityindex. Barbados does not mark the end of an exercise. It signals the commencementof an on-going process that monitors and ensures that the results obtained areconsolidated and enhanced upon.

GUYANA: Neil Pierre said that UNCED was unequivocal in its emphasis on theunique nature and vulnerability of small island States and those of low-lyingcoastal regions. The task is now to pursue with vigor and enthusiasm the full andurgent implementation of the agreements and decisions of the Conference. Butimportant as they are, these agreements will amount to very little unlessappropriate mechanisms are established for effective monitoring andimplementation on a system-wide basis. This responsibility should beappropriately located within the DPCSD, as provided for in the Programme ofAction.

BAHAMAS: Amb. Harcourt Turnquest said that the Programme of Actionrepresents a blueprint for a comprehensive and integrated approach to sustainabledevelopment, but that its successful implementation will need the full supportof the DPCSD. In this regard, the necessary resources must be provided to theSecretariat so that it may fulfill the functions outlined in paragraph 123 ofthe Programme of Action. He welcomed the quick response of UNDP on SIDS/NET andSIDS/TAP, but he highlighted the fact that SIDS themselves should be the primarygenerators of information for the network. He was particularly pleased with themanner in which the feasibility studies were prepared, in association with themembers of AOSIS themselves.

CYPRUS: Amb. Alecos Shambos said that the Conference can be characterizedas a success, however, recognition and awareness alone do not suffice to cure theacute problems faced by SIDS. Degradation of the environment, vulnerabilitiesto climate change and sea-level rise, and threats to unique ecosystems emergeas issues of great concern. Their mostly single product markets, small size andremoteness, small scale economies, lack of adequate endogenous capacity, andexposure to pollution and natural disasters further aggravate the overallchallenges confronting SIDS. He urged the international community to work jointlyto fulfill its obligations to present and future generations.

BRAZIL: Amb. Ronaldo Mota Sardenberg said that the characteristics of SIDShave made the international community recognize their significance to our planet.He noted that the international community is apparently still unwilling to meetthe financial obligations of both Rio and Bridgetown. Less than 10% of thefunding for environment-related programmes and projects agreed at UNCED have beenhonored. He welcomed the UNDP feasibility studies and expressed confidence thatsimilar studies will be prepared so that effective action can be taken toimplement the Barbados Programme of Action. Given appropriate assistance from theinternational community, SIDS can and will implement relevant plans andprogrammes to support their development.

VENEZUELA: The representative said that his country shares some of theSIDS responsibilities and commitments. He highlighted the need for more fundingfor the implementation of the Programme of Action. He added that Venezuela iscommitted to the Barbados Declaration and considers itself bound by the Programmeof Action. Human resources are the greatest assets of SIDS.

MALAYSIA: Amb. Razali Ismail said that it was urgent to address the issueof the survival of SIDS. The Programme of Action provides a blueprint for theirsustainable development and while all the countries need to make the transitionto sustainable development, the bulk of the burden of change should not be placedon the developing countries, including SIDS. Developed countries already possessand enjoy competitive advantages, compared with the severe handicaps of SIDS. Thesecurity of small States has been discussed in other fora and the economic,ecological and security challenges confronting SIDS must be effectively addressedto ensure their continued well-being.

UNITED STATES: Herman Gallegos said the Barbados Conference establishedan agenda to which the US is committed. The US will work with the internationalcommunity to follow up the Conference. The US is working to ensure theparticipation of developed and developing countries, international andnon-governmental organizations, academia and the private sector in this effort.In considering the issues of sustainable development in SIDS, there is nosubstitute for private sector economic growth. It is the private sector that willultimately determine the failure or success of a policy. In addition to its coralreef initiative, the US will follow up the Conference through bilateralprogrammes and multilateral assistance agencies, and ensure that the CSDundertakes the important reviews that will be necessary for the implementationof the Programme of Action.

PAKISTAN: The representative said that although Pakistan is not a smallisland, it shares many of the problems confronting SIDS. Pakistan is convincedthat the implementation of the recommendations of the Barbados Conference willgo a long way towards achieving sustainable development objectives. Since Rio,however, environmental degradation has continued unabated. Pakistan is committedto making sustainable development a reality. The developed countries have animportant role to play in the implementation of the Programme of Action and inassisting SIDS.

RUSSIAN FEDERATION: The representative said that the Programme of Actionhas a practical significance for preserving the ecosystems and stimulating theeconomies of SIDS. He also highlighted the importance of developing the humanresources potential. He said his country was ready to establish cooperation withthe small island States. He hoped that the Programme of Action will beaccompanied by the necessary political will for effective implementation.