Mr. President,
Let me first express Norway’s appreciation for your timely initiative. We believe it is important to build on the progress being made over the last year on the question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Coucil. The two reports by the facilitators of your predecessor have offered valuable ideas as to the way forward and have created an important momentum. Now is the time to take advantage of that momentum and bring the discussion on reform forward.
Mr. President,
During our previous consultations we have made our position clear, and it remains the same; Norways main priorities are to ensure that the Council operates coherently and and efficiently, and that the composition of the Council reflects the current configuration of the United Nations membership. Consequently we support an expansion in both categories. We would, however, welcome any constructive proposals that can break the current deadlock.
At this stage I would therefore like to make the following points:
- Firstly; If we are to succeed in completing the reform process initiated by our political leaders at the 2005 Summit, we need to look for a process that can bring us forward.
While we, the member states, need to show flexibility and seek compromise, it is also our view that in order to succeed we need to establish a process that commands the broadest possible support in order to ensure a legitimate and credible outcome.
- Secondly; We need concrete proposals in order to maintain focus and bring the discussions forward.
In this respect we are open for such discussions that do not prejudge any final arrangements.
Thirdly; it is our view that the President of the General Assembly should guide this transparent and inclusive process, ensuring the active participation of all member states, in an inter-governmental process.
Mr. President,
The overarching objective for Norway is to find solutions that will secure the continued legitimacy of the Council and provide a broader representation of the different regions - without at the same time compromising the efficiency of the Council. Norway is open to discuss all proposals that aim at achieving this. Reform is timely and necessary, and we appeal to all Member States to show flexibility and be open-minded.
Thank you, Mr. President