New Zealand Must Support France, Germany & Russia at UN Tomorrow

Auckland 18 February 2003: The New Zealand Ambassador’s speech to the UN General Assembly tomorrow must back a peaceful resolution to the crisis over Iraq – that means actively supporting the Governments of France, Germany and Russia.

“Helen Clark has so far failed to actively support the Franco-German proposal for peacefully disarming Iraq,” said Robbie Kelman, Greenpeace spokesperson.

“In times of crisis, the world does not need fence-sitters. The Prime Minister’s avoidance of active support for countries advancing the cause of peace is in stark contrast to her history as a peace activist.

“A pre-emptive strike against Iraq would be illegal and unprecedented. International leaders such as Helen Clark must stand up in opposition to the war machine headed by the US, Britain and Australia.

“New Zealand has an alternative proposal it could endorse. Helen Clark must instruct our Ambassador to the UN to stand alongside France, Germany and Russia,” Kelman said.

This morning Greenpeace again took action from aboard the Rainbow Warrior to prevent more US military equipment being loaded and shipped from Antwerp, Belgium. Ten Greenpeace activists climbed onto one of the harbour's lock gates to seal it shut. Other activists drove inflatable boats across the opening of the second lock gate to prevent four ships loaded with military equipment bound for the Gulf leaving the harbour, and a US navy vessel entering it to be loaded. Several activists were arrested but have since been released without charge.

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