NZ Voices Support for Small Island Developing Nations

New Zealand, in UN Address, Voices Support for Small Island Developing Nations

29 September 2014 – Not enough attention is focused on the challenges of small island developing nations, the Foreign Minister of New Zealand today told the annual United Nations General Assembly calling for greater efforts to share experiences and skills with the so-called SIDS regions.

Addressing the 69th high-level debate in New York, Murray McCully highlighted fisheries management as one potential area for greater cooperation, particularly since the tuna harvested from the Pacific last year was worth other $3.3 billion.

“Our objective is to see the owners of the Pacific tuna resource receive a significantly greater share of the value of that resource, and to ensure that it is sustainably managed for the future,” the Foreign Minister said.

The UN recently held the third international conference on SIDS partnerships in Apia, Samoa, in which New Zealand participated.

Among other issues highlighted in his address, the Foreign Minister noted the importance of action on climate change and shifting to renewable energies.

New Zealand is campaigning for one of the five seats on the Security Council. Member States that will hold the non-permanent two-year seats will be elected by the UN General Assembly on 16 October.

New Zealand has demonstrated in the past that it is a Council member that acts strongly, effectively and independent; champions the rights of small states and for the voices of all to be heard, Mr. McCully said.

ENDS

© Scoop Media