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A The UN Says RSS Feed A feed from The UN Says. en-gb Copyright The Government Says 2004-2005 rss@thegovernmentsays.com rss@thegovernmentsays.com Government news 1901-01-01T00:00+00:00 1 daily DAILY PRESS BRIEFING BY THE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON FOR THE SECRETARY-GENERAL http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm The following is a near-verbatim transcript of todays noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Associate Spokesperson for the Secretary-General. Okay, well try and keep this fairly quick, I know youve had a very extensive <a href="http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/081118_Doss.doc.htm">briefing</a> just now from Mr. Doss. Secretary-General in Geneva http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm In Geneva today, the Secretary-General <a href="http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2008/sgsm11933.doc.htm">spoke</a> at the inauguration ceremony for the new Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room at the Palais des Nations, which was donated by Spain.  Saying that human rights are a fundamental part of the work of the United Nations and of the Organizations very identity, the Secretary-General said that he was pleased to inaugurate the new room on the eve of the sixtieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights. He said that the Alliance of Civilizations is a very important and practical initiative that is linked intrinsically to human rights, adding that Spain and Turkey have played a dynamic role as conveners of the Alliance. Later, the Secretary-General met with the King and Queen of Spain and with Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero.  He also spoke with the Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany, in conjunction with her role as a Special Envoy to the Conference on Financing for Development. Earlier today, the Secretary-General met with the head of the World Intellectual Property Organization and had a town hall meeting with WIPO staff.  I also expect to be able to say something before this briefing is out about the Secretary-Generals upcoming trip to Doha.  Also, by the way, we do expect sometime this afternoon to have a statement from the Secretary-General regarding the recent violence in Darfur. Sudan http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm The UN-AU Mission in Darfur has received reports from various sources pointing to increased military activities throughout Darfur during the past few days.  These include reports of aerial bombings by the Government of Sudan in the Kutum area; UNAMID is trying to confirm these reports. Meanwhile, Ashraf Qazi, the Secretary-Generals Special Representative for Sudan, welcomes the National Assemblys approval of the appointment of a National Elections Commission.  Qazi congratulated the new Commissioners and pledged the UN Mission in Sudans readiness to support and assist with preparations for upcoming elections to ensure that they are carried out in accordance with the Comprehensive Peace Agreement. Meanwhile, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has welcomed the announcement by Sudans Minister of Humanitarian Affairs on the extension of the Moratorium facilitating humanitarian aid to Darfur until 31 January 2010.  And we have a Press Release on that upstairs. Gaza http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay today called for an immediate end to the Israeli blockade of Gaza.  She added that, because of the blockade, 1.5 million Palestinian men, women and children have been forcibly deprived of their most basic human rights.  Pillay said, This is in direct contravention of international human rights and humanitarian law.  It must end now. According to the Office of the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO), no fuel, humanitarian supplies or commercial commodities were allowed into Gaza today. The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is drawing attention to what it calls unprecedented levels of hardship.  For example, it says, mothers are being turned away from UNRWA food centres without powdered milk for their babies.  The agency also notes that it is unable to get in supplies even for blind children. Democratic Republic of the Congo http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm You just had an extensive <a href="http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/081118_Doss.doc.htm">briefing</a> by Mr. Doss concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  Meanwhile, the International Criminal Court says Congolese warlord Thomas Lubanga Dyilo will remain in its custody until the start of his trial in January 2009.  The Court earlier today lifted the stay of proceedings in the case against Lubanga after a status conference in The Hague.  The suspension was imposed in June when judges found Lubanga would not receive a fair trial because the Prosecutor had failed to share with the defense confidential information from the United Nations and other agencies that he has used in his case against Lubanga.  The Court now says that the reasons for imposing a halt have fallen away.  And there is more on the Courts website. Meanwhile, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the UN Mission (MONUC) says that some 25,000 internally displaced persons have gathered around its base in Bambu, about 80 kilometres north of Goma.  According to the Mission, the displaced civilians are without assistance, as there are currently no humanitarian workers in or around Bambu.  In the provincial capital Goma, the World Food Programme says it is stepping up food distribution to some 100,000 displaced people.  The agency also intends to cross into rebel territory to assist some 100,000 civilians.  UNICEF, meanwhile, says that some 150,000 school children have stopped going to school as a result of the insecurity. Deputy Secretary-General http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm The Deputy Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro leaves New York later today for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to attend the Second Meeting of the Africa Commission convened by the Government of Denmark from 20 to 21 November.  The meeting will focus on the creation of jobs and furthering economic growth in Africa as a way to enhance implementation of the Millennium Development Goals.  The Commission will examine underlying issues relating to education, youth and women employment and climate change. In addition, the Deputy Secretary-General will address the Sixth African Development Forum meeting, where she will give remarks on gender equality and the elimination of violence against women. Honduras/Guatemala http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that the reports it has received on Honduras following the floods there indicate that the living conditions for 313,350 affected people will remain precarious for several months, owing to the extent of damage to livelihood and infrastructure.  However, only 10 per cent of the $17 million requested in a flash appeal has been committed, and the limited resources available so far are slowing down the humanitarian response. UNICEF is providing cleaning equipment and material to the families that were sheltered in school buildings, in order for them to keep the premises clean, and it has also developed a work plan to restore the provision of safe water in the affected areas.  The World Food Programme, meanwhile, urgently needs at least 2,000 metric tons of food in order to start recovery activities. In neighbouring Guatemala, floods have affected 30,000 families.  UNICEF and WFP have sent in teams to plan response, and the UN Population Fund is distributing 2,000 hygiene kits.  WFP has already delivered food for more than 28,000 people. Kyrgyzstan http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm In Kyrgyzstan, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, with other UN agencies and NGO partners, is concerned about some 700,000 vulnerable people in that country facing the winter season without adequate shelter and facilities. This includes 250,000 people at risk of electricity and water shortages during the extremely cold winter months, and 580,000 people considered to be food insecure. To ensure minimum standards of critical services during the winter months, from this December to April 2009, the agencies are working to complement government efforts to ensure priority interventions through a Winter Response Plan.  The response plan requires some $18 million. International Court of Justice http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm The International Court of Justice (ICJ) reports that the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, known as FYROM, has instituted proceedings against Greece.  FYROM contends that Greece violated a previous agreement between the two States when it decided to veto FYROMs application to join NATO because of the name issue. FYROM requests the Court to order Greece to cease and desist from objecting in any way to its membership of NATO or any other organization of which Greece is a member. Meanwhile, the Secretary-Generals Personal Envoy for the talks between Greece and FYROM, Matthew Nimetz, says that the FYROM Government assured him that this latest action did not lessen its commitment to continue the process under the Secretary-Generals auspices to seek a solution to the name issue. In other developments at the ICJ, the Court today, despite Serbian objections, affirmed that it has jurisdiction to rule on a Croatian case alleging that Serbs committed genocide during the Balkans conflicts of the 1990s.  And we have more information upstairs. Secretary-General to Doha http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm As I mentioned earlier at this briefing, I have a note about the Secretary-Generals trip to Doha. At last weekend's summit in Washington, DC, the Secretary-General pressed world leaders to attend the upcoming Conference on Financing for Development, to be held in Doha beginning 28 November.  This meeting has since grown to be a full-fledged summit, with some 40 Heads of State or Government from the developed and developing world arriving to discuss the next steps for follow-up to the Monterrey Consensus and managing the global financial crisis. The Secretary-General's goal at Doha is to broaden the debate beyond the need for a global stimulus package -- the main theme in Washington -- to include 1) protections for the needs of developing nations, by maintaining international commitments on aid and trade and minimizing negative impact on global security and well-being of people, 2) to promote "green jobs" and "green economy" as an integral element in any stimulus package, and 3) to ensure that inclusive multilateralism be the watch-word for institutional financial reform. As the Secretary-General sees it, the world does not face a single crisis.  It faces a nexus of interrelated crises which can only be dealt with comprehensively.  Solutions to each challenge must therefore be solutions to all. Comoros http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Beginning tomorrow, international experts are meeting in the capital of Comoros for a three-day conference on managing and promoting the Karthala Volcano.  Covering two thirds of the countrys largest island, this active volcano has long been considered a threat to the population.  But recently, it is increasingly being recognized for its development and economic potential, in the areas of eco-tourism and geothermic energy.  We have a Press Rlease upstairs with more information, including press contacts. International Labour Organization http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Juan Somavía of Chile was elected to a third term as Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO) today. There was no other candidate for that position. Somavía is the ninth Director-General to hold the office, and formally begins his new five-year term in March 2009.  And we have a Press Release on that upstairs. Budget http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Lastly today we have an update on Member States status of contributions to the UN regular budget. As of 17 November, a total of 131 Member States have paid in full their assessments to the regular budget for 2008. With inclusion of current assessments, a total of approximately $4.3 billion is still outstanding as of today.  Of this, $533 million is for the regular budget and $3.6 billion relates to peacekeeping operations.  The remaining outstanding contributions consist of $52 million for the international tribunals and $79 million for the Capital Master Plan. And details on the contributions by each Member State are available online at <a href="http://www.un.org/ga/contributions">www.un.org/ga/contributions</a>. Thats it from me.  There wont be any briefing from Enrique.  Are there any questions?  Yes. Questions and Answers http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Question:&#160; It&#146;s about MONUC.&#160; We understand that the SG asked for an increase in terms of the soldiers to join MONUC.&#160; Is he also asking for a change in the mandate itself? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  At this stage, what were looking for, and as the Secretary-General and Mr. Doss have made clear repeatedly, is additional personnel with some additional capabilities for rapid deployment.  And so, this is what we want to see achieved.  The Security Council has been considering this request, and hopefully Member States will also consider this and see this as urgent.  This is certainly something we had asked for even prior to the latest flare up of fighting.  And we believe that the recent violence has made the situation and the urgency of this request all the more apparent.  Yes, Edie. Question:&#160; Farhan, two questions.&#160; First, is there a list of the 40 Heads of State and Government who said they&#146;re going to Doha? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  I dont have that, but well see whether we can try and get that for you. Question:&#160; And secondly, of this $4.3 billion that&#146;s outstanding.&#160; How much of that is owed by the United States? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  I dont have that figure with me, but it is available on the website, so we can go and look at that later.  But there is a contributions website.  There is a certain amount outstanding from them. [The Associate Spokesperson later added that $1.7 billion was owed by the United States.  That figure includes dues for the regular budget, peacekeeping, tribunals and the Capital Master Plan, he said.] Question:&#160; This morning, you announced about this Human Rights Room in Geneva and I am sure you&#146;re aware there is some controversy about how it was paid for.&#160; Yesterday it was said that the UN&#146;s understanding... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Question:  This morning, you announced about this Human Rights Room in Geneva and I am sure youre aware there is some controversy about how it was paid for.  Yesterday it was said that the UNs understanding is it was all paid for by a foundation.  But the Spanish Government has since said that 40 per cent of the money came from their Government, including over half a million dollars from a fund for development aid and international organizations.  So, I want to ask again -- does the UN think its appropriate for it to use development for the renovation of this $25 million ceiling?  What was the answer on that?  And why was it said that it was a foundation when in fact it was the Spanish Government? Associate Spokesperson:  I can only refer back to our understanding of this.  If the Spanish Government says some of the money is coming from them, I suggest that you ask them how theyre funding that money.  Certainly it would be Spains decision in terms of how to provide it.  But thats not a decision made by the United Nations. Question:&#160; But I guess what I want to know is, I mean this controversy has been growing over a number of days, so, it&#146;s surprising to me that the UN system, when it saw these major headlines saying &#147;Development... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Question:  But I guess what I want to know is, I mean this controversy has been growing over a number of days, so, its surprising to me that the UN system, when it saw these major headlines saying Development aid used to renovate UN premises, that nobody checked out where the money came from.  I guess what Im saying is if Spain had said openly that, if your understanding was yes, were using developing aid to fix this $25 million ceiling, would the UN have said fine, no problem? Associate Spokesperson:  Thats a hypothetical question.  The information we had gotten was that this had come from a foundation.  Ultimately its not that we investigate, what people say about this.  We get this information from Governments and like I said, I suggest that you inquire with the Government what the particulars are of this. Question:&#160; So, is the UN itself going to enquire?&#160; Because we were told it was coming from one thing, and now turns out to be something else. http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  If the information we initially got is not the case, well certainly try to get more information on this. [The Associate Spokesperson later clarified that the cost of the renovations for the new Human Rights Council and Alliance of Civilizations Room (Room XX) at Palais des Nations were entirely funded by the ONUART Foundation, which was established by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation to collect public and private money from Spanish society.] Question:&#160; Farhan, are you saying that -&#150; I wasn&#146;t here for the briefing yesterday. http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  Nor was I. Question:&#160; Okay.&#160; I don&#146;t know whether this question was asked, but was there no UN funds that went into this?&#160; No planning, no payment at all that went from the UN itself? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  No.  This is a room that has been donated by the Spanish Government for the United Nations.  So, this is not UN money thats going into this.  But its money that was provided, you know, its a room that was provided by Spain. Question:&#160; But I mean, you say you&#146;re not going to talk about a hypothetical, at least you told Matthew, but really, he does ask a legitimate question.&#160; What is the UN&#146;s position about money that is part... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Question:  But I mean, you say youre not going to talk about a hypothetical, at least you told Matthew, but really, he does ask a legitimate question.  What is the UNs position about money that is part of a country - okay, its up to the country to decide what it wants to do with the money, but if you make recommendations that this money was earmarked for African development and its now going up on a ceiling, so hows Associate Spokesperson:  Well, lets see where the money is coming from.  The information, like I said, is not the UN information.  Its from the Government of Spain and there is a couple of differing reports about what the money would have gone to.  But first lets get the information from the Spanish Government about what money this is before making any judgement about whether its appropriate or not. Question:&#160; But&#133; http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  But you can make the judgement once we have the accurate information about that. Question:&#160; I understand in that hindsight you can make a (inaudible), but is there a general UN policy when it comes to this?&#160; This isn&#146;t the first time that a nation has decided to give something to the... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Question:  I understand in that hindsight you can make a (inaudible), but is there a general UN policy when it comes to this?  This isnt the first time that a nation has decided to give something to the UN.  But is there a process of trying to determine where this money is coming from?  Is it being spent in a fashion that is sensible or not? Associate Spokesperson:  Well, in terms of sensible funding for projects, our general rule is that we dont like to see money directed away from development.  For example, whenever there are other sorts of projects, we try to make sure that existing aid commitments are not hindered and that would apply across the board.  But again, lets get what the accurate information on this is first before making any judgement about this particular money.  Yes? Question:&#160; There have been reports on the news this morning that these checkpoints into Gaza from Israel were opened and there were trucks of supplies going through.&#160; Is there a timing problem at least... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Question:  There have been reports on the news this morning that these checkpoints into Gaza from Israel were opened and there were trucks of supplies going through.  Is there a timing problem at least from? Associate Spokesperson:  No, the latest information is that the checkpoints as of right now are closed.  This is the latest information that we got from our people on the ground at UNSCO and UNRWA.  And, I dont know whether you were here for the start of this briefing, but theres a statement from the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navanethem Pillay, reflecting her views about this.  Yes? Question:&#160; Thank you.&#160; Does the Secretary-General have any comment to make about the latest act of piracy off the coast of Somalia, and in general, about the situation in Somalia?&#160; There are reports... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Question:  Thank you.  Does the Secretary-General have any comment to make about the latest act of piracy off the coast of Somalia, and in general, about the situation in Somalia?  There are reports that militants are 15 miles from Mogadishu. Associate Spokesperson:  In terms of that, I dont have anything specific to say.  The Secretary-General, in general, in recent months, has made clear his concerns about the rise in piracy in and off the coast of Somalia.  He has also made it clear his support for efforts to have the naval escorts so that, in particular, needed humanitarian goods can travel through those waters.  At the same time, I dont have anything specific right now on the latest incident. Question:&#160; There are some news reports claiming that the Secretary-General has sent a letter to the Iraqi Government and an organization known as MKO.&#160; Has he sent such a letter? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  No, the Secretary-General has not written to the Government of Iraq regarding that particular issue, which involves Camp Ashraf.  The letter that youre referring to, I believe was written by the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navanethem Pillay, and there is some relevant language on this that appears in the latest human rights section of the Secretary-Generals recent report on Iraq that came out last week.  Yes? Question:&#160; When you were talking about the dues and the figures that you gave; when is deadline for&#133; are we past the deadline for when those dues were due?&#160; Where are we in the process? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  The official deadline for when those dues are due was at the end of January this year.  So, yes, were a little behind that deadline.  At the same time, we understand the reality of different countries budgetary funding cycles, and we know that, with some countries, the money will come later in the year, depending upon how each nation deals with budgetary matters.  But, certainly this is money that is late, and we would expect to see it paid. Question:&#160; And what sort of pressure or mechanism do you bring to bear when it gets to a point in which it&#146;s starting to get painful in terms of the hold back and also, I was just wondering, is there any... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Question:  And what sort of pressure or mechanism do you bring to bear when it gets to a point in which its starting to get painful in terms of the hold back and also, I was just wondering, is there any consideration now that there is this global financial crisis that some countries may be in more difficulty a position to (inaudible) now? Associate Spokesperson:  Well, first of all, payment of dues is not a voluntary thing -- its a treaty obligation, and when countries are members of the United Nations, they are obliged to pay their dues in full, on time and without preconditions.  Beyond that, if a country falls so far behind in its dues that the amount that it owes is equivalent to the last two years worth of its dues, it will lose its voting rights in the General Assembly.  And thats a fairly stiff penalty.  There are some exceptions that are made.  The GA members can sometimes make exceptions for specific countries who are facing particular hardships, for example.  But that is the main penalty, yes. Question:&#160; (Inaudible)&#133;country losing its voting rights&#133;? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  Yes.  There is a number of countries; even now there is a number of countries that do not have their voting rights for the present session because of dues non-payments.  But, like I said, sometimes the GA makes exceptions under whats called Article 19 of the Charter.  So, those certain countries with a large amount of non-payment still have an exception where they get to maintain their voting rights. Question:&#160; Is there a list of those countries? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  Yes, there is a list that comes out regularly as a document of the General Assembly. Question:&#160; But you&#146;re saying across the board they&#146;re not allowed to vote?&#160; So, for instance, when we&#146;re watching these votes for Security Council seats of, you know, the recent one of Turkey and Austria... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Question:  But youre saying across the board theyre not allowed to vote?  So, for instance, when were watching these votes for Security Council seats of, you know, the recent one of Turkey and Austria and Iceland and we notice that there were some, you know, you had in favour and against, and then there is a tally and there was some, it never adds up to 192.  Are those some of the result of? Associate Spokesperson:  Some of those countries, yes, are countries that cannot vote. Question:&#160; So they didn&#146;t vote?&#160; It&#146;s not just because they didn&#146;t show up; they just didn&#146;t have a say in this? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  Yes.  Every year there is a certain number of countries - I dont know what the number is, its a fairly low number of counties whose dues non-payment are so severe that they lose their voting rights.  But there are regular lists that the GA puts out on the documents counter of countries that either do not have their vote or who have been granted the Article 19 exception to maintain their vote despite no-payments. [The Associate Spokesperson later clarified that the seven Member States currently in arrears had been granted voting rights by General Assembly resolution 63/4 (in connection with Article 19).  So currently there are no United Nations Member States that are without voting rights, he added.] Question:&#160; Just one follow-up on the sculpture in Geneva.&#160; Can we get some sort of official readout of what Secretary-General Ban thinks about this whole incident?&#160; I mean, it really has sort of ballooned... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Question:  Just one follow-up on the sculpture in Geneva.  Can we get some sort of official readout of what Secretary-General Ban thinks about this whole incident?  I mean, it really has sort of ballooned over the last days and we havent heard any guidance; youve tried the best you can to explain the position, but when it comes down to Associate Spokesperson:  Well, in terms of his official views, the Secretary-General did make comments at the unveiling of this exhibit today.  That is his official comment, and it is available upstairs on the counter. Question:&#160; But he didn&#146;t mention (inaudible) this is an appropriate use of&#133;&#160; That&#146;s why I am saying, it was asked yesterday&#133; http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  No, because that would be putting words into his mouth.  In terms of what his official views are, those are encompassed in his actual comments which is available upstairs. Question:&#160; And that&#146;s (inaudible)&#133; to the questions&#133; http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  That is to be read as his official views about the sculpture.  In terms of this particular issue, like I said, what I would suggest is that you get the information from the Spanish Government.  There have been some discrepant reports about where the money came from and you need to get what the solid information is about where the money came from. Question:&#160; But Farhan, you said that the Spanish Government doesn&#146;t answer the full question, you know, it only gets a portion of their decision in justifying their decision, but the UN played a role in... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Question:  But Farhan, you said that the Spanish Government doesnt answer the full question, you know, it only gets a portion of their decision in justifying their decision, but the UN played a role in this. Associate Spokesperson:  Well, this was gift made to the United Nations.  But in terms of our reaction, yes, we would need to see what the information is, what the last information is Question:&#160; I mean, when you and I receive a gift; if you and I receive a gift from someone, I&#146;ll put it in this context, but if you receive a gift and there is something a little funny about how the way... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Question:  I mean, when you and I receive a gift; if you and I receive a gift from someone, Ill put it in this context, but if you receive a gift and there is something a little funny about how the way that the gift got to you, youre going to speak up if youre a person who has some sort of sensitivity about such a thing you know. Associate Spokesperson:  Well, first of all, once we received it we were not aware that there was anything that was, as you put it, funny about it.  The initial information we had was what wed said.  Now, if there is any difference in that information, well have to react accordingly.  But first well wait for what that accurate information is, right? Question:&#160; (Inaudible) ceiling?&#160; I mean, how do they transfer, what, this renovation?&#160; Was it a call for a donation or did Spain offer, for some reason? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson:  As far as I am aware, this was a donation from the Government of Spain. Question:&#160; Without any (inaudible)&#133;? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081118.doc.htm Associate Spokesperson: As far as I am aware, yes.  This was something that Spain had proposed.  And with that, have a good afternoon. DAILY PRESS BRIEFING BY THE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON FOR THE SECRETARY-GENERAL http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm The following is a near-verbatim transcript of todays noon briefing by Marie Okabe, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General. Good afternoon. Press Conference http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm At 1 p.m. today, here in Room 226, there will be a <a href="http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/081117_Bolivia.doc.htm">press conference</a> by Evo Morales, President of Bolivia, and General Assembly President Miguel dEscoto Brockmann. Democratic Republic of the Congo http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm The UN Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUC) has strongly condemned the latest violation of the ceasefire by the rebel group CNDP, led by Laurent Nkunda.  Nkundas fighters yesterday seized control of a number of North Kivu localities following some of the worst fighting in more than a week.  The Mission says that the UN attack helicopters undertook reconnaissance flights over the area and are poised to respond to any and all eventualities.  It calls on the warring parties to uphold the ceasefire and to give the ongoing political process a chance to succeed. On the political front:  Over the weekend, the Secretary-Generals Special Envoy Olusegun Obasanjo met with Presidents Dos Santos of Angola and Kabila of the DRC, and later on with rebel leader Laurent Nkunda in North Kivu.  Nkunda reportedly raised some demands, including integration of rebels in the national army at the appropriate rank.  He also agreed to open a corridor for humanitarian assistance and to continue to observe the ceasefire. Special Envoy Obasanjo and African Union Co-Facilitator Benjamin Mkapa are in Nairobi, Kenya, today to brief President Mwai Kibaki, in his capacity as the Chair of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region, on their consultations with Luanda and Kinshasa.  Obasanjo, who earlier today called on both government and rebel forces to respect the ceasefire, is expected at UN Headquarters later this week to brief the Secretary-General. And back in the field, the UN Mission says that it is providing support to humanitarian agencies working to relocate some 60,000 displaced people from a UN camp at Kibati.  The Kibati camp is located some 10 kilometers north of Goma, just below rebel lines, and it would be firmly in the line of fire should the rebels advance on Goma.  The IDPs will be moved to another UN camp far from the frontline. We are finalizing arrangements for the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Alan Doss, to brief you tomorrow by video link from Kinshasa.  And well alert you to the precise time, once we have it confirmed.  Were aiming for noon, at the noon briefing.  Group of 20 Meeting http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm On Friday and Saturday, the Secretary-General was in Washington, D.C. to take part in the Summit on the world economy.  In a <a href="http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2008/sgsm11928.doc.htm">statement</a> welcoming the Summits Final Declaration, which committed leaders to joint action, the Secretary-General highlighted the agreement on the international coordination of stimulus packages, as well as new market regulation, more inclusive economic governance and the need to avoid trade and investment protectionism. In particular, the Secretary-General expressed appreciation for the Declarations commitment to:  continued cooperation and multilateralism; the Millennium Development Goals and development assistance commitments previously made; the development principles agreed at the conference on Financing for Development in Monterrey in 2002; and addressing other critical challenges, such as energy security and climate change, food security, the rule of law, and the fight against terrorism, poverty and disease. In his own <a href="http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2008/sgsm11927.doc.htm">remarks</a>, the Secretary-General emphasized the importance of inclusive multilateralism, so that countries not represented at the Summit can participate in shaping future international economic governance.  He also cited the opportunity to promote green economic development as part of the fiscal stimulus, and stressed the importance of strong participation at the Doha Review Conference on Financing for Development later this month.  And we have copies of that statement upstairs. Secretary-General Today http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm The Secretary-General, meanwhile, arrived this morning in Geneva, where he met at the Palais des Nations with High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay, and the regional heads of the field presences of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.  In the afternoon, he travelled to Montreux to participate in an annual seminar with his Special and Personal Representatives and Envoys. Gaza http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Turning to Gaza, the Office of the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO) reports that the Kerem Shalom crossing point between Israel and Gaza was opened today.  As a result, the World Food Programme was able to get nine trucks into Gaza.  But the fuel pipelines remained closed - meaning that Gaza is still experiencing power problems. Meanwhile, the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) managed to get eight trucks into Gaza, containing luncheon meat and powdered milk for babies.  But many of the powdered milk containers were opened with knives by the authorities, resulting in thousands of dollars worth of damage, according to UNRWA. UNRWA says its food distribution program will be able to resume as of tomorrow - but for days not weeks.  In that context, UNWRA stresses its need for consistent and large-scale influxes of supplies. Iraq http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm And on Iraq, the Secretary-Generals Special Representative for Iraq, Staffan de Mistura, has welcomed the Council of Representatives adoption of a law concerning the Independent High Commission for Human Rights. De Mistura said the High Commission is a milestone in the protection and promotion of human rights in Iraq. He called on the Government of Iraq and the Council of Representatives to make all necessary arrangements for the prompt establishment of a strong, credible and independent Commission, which, from the outset, becomes an institution responsive to the needs of all Iraqi citizens. Darfur http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm On Darfur, the United Nations, African Union and Government of Sudan officials convened yesterday in Khartoum a tripartite meeting on the deployment of the UN-AU mission in Darfur. The meeting was attended on the UN side by Under-Secretary-General for Field Support, Susana Malcorra. The meeting reviewed the outcome of the last meeting, which was held in October in Khartoum and also focused on logistical challenges affecting UNAMID deployment. Pakistan -- International Monetary Fund http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm The International Monetary Fund has announced an agreement in principle on a stand-by arrangement for Pakistan.  The plan, which is subject to approval by the IMFs board, would involve a loan of roughly $7.6 billion over 23 months. According to the IMF, the key objective of the arrangement is to support Pakistans plan to tighten fiscal and monetary policies, while ensuring a well-targeted and adequately funded social safety net.  And there is more on that upstairs as well. UNFCCC &#150;- Emissions Report http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm The UN Climate Change Convention (UNFCCC) Secretariat issued its report on greenhouse gas emissions in industrialized countries today.  The report finds that emissions in these countries continue to rise. Between 2000 and 2006, emissions of the 40 nations with reporting obligations under the Convention rose by 2.3 per cent.  But the biggest increases came from economies in transition, which rose more than three times as much. Yvo de Boer, Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC, says that the figures clearly underscore the need for political action at the climate change conference that opens in Poznań, Poland, in just two weeks.  We have a press release on this upstairs. Weather Insurance http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm The World Food Programme (WFP) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) are teaming up with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to provide poor rural farmers with weather insurance. The Foundation is providing nearly $1 million to support research and planning for this type of insurance.  The aim is to bridge the gap between emergency relief and rural development by shielding small farmers from the impact of natural disasters and climate change.  And there is more in a press release upstairs. UNEP &#150;- Paperless Conferences http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm And parties to the Montreal Protocol on protecting the ozone layer are meeting all this week in Doha.  In an effort to reduce greenhouse gases associated with this and other international conferences, a pilot programme is under way to make the meeting as paper-free as possible.  As part of the initiative, which is sponsored by the UN Environment Programme and the Government of Qatar, delegates have been issued laptops with special software that allows them to share and amend papers during the meeting.  Participants have also been given lessons on how to minimize the use of printed documents.  In an effort to reduce emissions linked to the publication and shipment of conference documents to and from meetings, UNEPs exhibition in Doha is handing out memory sticks and guides on downloading publications, rather than the reports themselves.  There is more on this upstairs. Environment Awards http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Three leading environmental and humanitarian agencies have launched a new type of award, aimed at honouring leaders in the response to large-scale environmental emergencies.  The Green Star Awards will honour individuals, organizations, Governments and corporations for their special efforts to respond to such emergencies.  The non-monetary awards are an initiative of the UN Environment Programme, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, and Green Cross International.  The first Green Star Awards will be given out next May in Brussels.  And we have more information on that. International Criminal Court http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Two more announcements:  The seventh session of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court opened this past weekend in The Hague and will last until November 22. The Court says two new States have joined it, the Cook Islands and Suriname, raising the number of the member States to 108. The Court also announced this morning that its Trial Chamber will hold a status conference tomorrow in the case of accused Congolese warlord Thomas Lubanga. Secretary-General Appointment http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm And I have one announcement. The Secretary-General has <a href="http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2008/sga1165.doc.htm">appointed</a> Margareta Wahlström of Sweden as Assistant Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction, and Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action in the Secretariat for the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction.  This new voluntary-funded post, based in Geneva, has been created to step up action and international cooperation on disaster risk reduction, as climate change steadily increases the number and intensity of natural disasters across the globe. Ms. Wahlström has 25 years of extensive national and international experience in disaster management and institution building for strengthening capacity for disaster preparedness and risk reduction.  We have more information and her bio upstairs. Press Conference Tomorrow http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Finally, as I mentioned, for tomorrow, we plan to have Alan Doss, the Secretary-Generals Special Representative for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, via video link from Kinshasa.  And we will confirm the time of the press conference later today, but were aiming for noon. And thats all I have for you.  There is a 1 p.m. press conference here, anything for me?  Yes, George. Questions and Answers http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Question:&#160; Marie, I am intrigued by this story about the opening of the powdered milk at the border crossing.&#160; You say that it was cut open with knives by the authorities.&#160; What authorities are we talking... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Question:  Marie, I am intrigued by this story about the opening of the powdered milk at the border crossing.  You say that it was cut open with knives by the authorities.  What authorities are we talking about?  This is a border.  It could be the Israelis, it could be the Palestithe Hamas Government in Gaza.  And should that not be routinely specified?  And you said there were thousands of dollars of losses.  Are you saying therefore that they not only knifed, cut open the containers, but they dumped a lot of it on the floor?  What happened there, as far as you know? Deputy Spokesperson:  George, I think I read to you everything that I know on the subject and I think the main concern expressed by the humanitarian agency was simply that powdered milk that was desperately needed by the infants, and the babies who needed it were no longer being able to be delivered to them.  For any other details you will have to get in touch with the agency later.  Masood? Question:&#160; Did you have any update on this Somalia, this pirating of ships by the Somalian &#133;the Saudi ship?&#160; The other thing on that&#133; http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Deputy Spokesperson:  I have nothing on specific incidents of on pirating of ships today. Question:&#160; I just wanted to have, to ask whether any decision has been made by the Secretary-General to visit Pakistan while he is going to be in Doha for this summit later this month. http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Deputy Spokesperson:  I have nothing further on his plans of travel other than what we have already announced to you.  Question:&#160; I was wondering, has the Secretary-General&#146;s Office received any complaints from any Mission regarding the Culture of Peace Meetings? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Deputy Spokesperson:  Not that I am aware of. Question:&#160; Nothing? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Deputy Spokesperson:  But I will look into that for you.  But you could also probably ask the General Assembly Spokesperson on that issue.  Question:&#160; In the report on UNAMI that was discussed by the Security Council on Friday, the SG expressed concern about this Camp Ashraf and the Iraqi Representative told reporters afterwards, you know, ... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Question:  In the report on UNAMI that was discussed by the Security Council on Friday, the SG expressed concern about this Camp Ashraf and the Iraqi Representative told reporters afterwards, you know, that their position is that they should leave the country but theyre not going to force them to go back to Iran.  Obviously, there is probably not going to be any other possibility for them.  And I notice that the sit-in outside is now suddenly gone.  Is the Secretary-General going to be following up with this issue in the future?  Where does it stand in terms of the UN, I mean we have got this pact thats been agreed by the US and the Iraqi Government.  How are they going to be following up on this? Deputy Spokesperson:  On this specific issue, I dont have anything for you right now, but I can look into it for you.  But if it involves refugees, you can also talk to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. Question:&#160; But I&#146;m more interested in, not the UNHCR side, but the SG side because the UNHCR has obviously been in contact with the Iraqi Government.&#160; But it was in the SG report, so I am wondering how... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Question:  But Im more interested in, not the UNHCR side, but the SG side because the UNHCR has obviously been in contact with the Iraqi Government.  But it was in the SG report, so I am wondering how he is going to follow up because its on a much higher level than UNHCR. Deputy Spokesperson:  I have nothing beyond the report as of now.  So, I will look into it for you.  Question:&#160; It&#146;s been reported that some Roma children died in Kosovo in camps that the United Nations built there, from lead poisoning.&#160; Do we know anything about that or to confirm, deny what happened... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Question:  Its been reported that some Roma children died in Kosovo in camps that the United Nations built there, from lead poisoning.  Do we know anything about that or to confirm, deny what happened? Deputy Spokesperson:  I am not aware of any reports from the UN Mission on this subject, but well certainly check with them for you. Question:&#160; Okay, one more question.&#160;&#160; There was a second school collapse in Haiti.&#160; So, I was wondering if we know if the UN Mission there is going to do something in order to ensure better construction... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Question:  Okay, one more question.   There was a second school collapse in Haiti.  So, I was wondering if we know if the UN Mission there is going to do something in order to ensure better construction practices. Deputy Spokesperson:  I dont know if the construction of buildings is in the mandate of the UN Mission.  But I do know that the UN Mission there has been assisting with the rescue and recovery efforts with these collapses.  In terms of what theyre doing in future construction projects specifically, I would have to look into that for you.  But as I said, I dont think there is a specific mandate for it to assist in construction, but of course, the UN is involved in a variety of areas in Haiti, including development.  So, I am sure that there is some angle of it that we can follow up for you, or you can also ask UNDP about it as well.  Yes. Question:&#160; This plan to teach diplomats how to use laptops sounds rather ambitious.&#160; Is the goal to get everybody, all the ambassadors here to use their own laptops and it seems to me they&#146;re not used ... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Question:  This plan to teach diplomats how to use laptops sounds rather ambitious.  Is the goal to get everybody, all the ambassadors here to use their own laptops and it seems to me theyre not used to that. I may be judging them too harshly, but it seems to me that UN diplomats are used to having stuff handed to them.  Printed paper or something like this, rather than having to get it themselves.  Do you know anything about the hopes for the success of this? Deputy Spokesperson:  Well, obviously since its a pilot programme, theyre there to see how it will work.  So, lets find out how it works in Doha and take it from there. Question:&#160; Do you have an idea how many delegates this involves in Doha? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Deputy Spokesperson:  Its a conference for the Montreal Protocol in Doha, so if you contacted the conference organizers Im sure they can tell you.  Question:&#160; I have some questions on the Congo that I&#146;d like to ask, I mean, I may ask Doss tomorrow, but I&#146;ll ask you.&#160; One is that the military head of MONUC for North Kivu Bipin Rawat has been quoted... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Question:  I have some questions on the Congo that Id like to ask, I mean, I may ask Doss tomorrow, but Ill ask you.  One is that the military head of MONUC for North Kivu Bipin Rawat has been quoted that the UN having to use white vehicles with UN painted on it has led to -- is one of the reasons that they have been unable to effectively combat with the forces of Nkunda.  He said the camouflage and concealment are needed.  Since he is a MONUC commander, what is the UNs response to one of its military commanders saying that he has the wrong equipment and it makes it impossible? Deputy Spokesperson:  I have not seen anything on MONUC on this.  Id have to look into it for you. Question:&#160; Okay.&#160; The other one is Mr. Obasanjo, the envoy was on the BBC saying that he believes Mr. Nkunda&#146;s statement that he is doing all this for minorities throughout the DRC.&#160; He was asked, &#147;Do ... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Question:  Okay.  The other one is Mr. Obasanjo, the envoy was on the BBC saying that he believes Mr. Nkundas statement that he is doing all this for minorities throughout the DRC.  He was asked, Do you believe him? He said, Of course I believe him.  Is he speaking in any way on the UNs behalf?  And has Obasanjo, given that he met with Nkunda right before these attacks, has he had any response to it?  Whats the coordination between the UN condemning the attacks and Obasanjo praising Nkunda? Deputy Spokesperson:  Well, the UN Mission, as you know, is on the ground, and it condemned the attacks as part of its reaction to what it is mandated to do on the ground.  Mr. Obasanjo is the Secretary-Generals envoy, as you know. He was presented most recently in Nairobi as the Secretary-Generals Envoy to the Great Lakes Region.  This weekend, as I just mentioned to you, he met with the Angolan President, the President of the DRC. He also met with Nkunda and his message to Nkunda was clear -- that the international community expects a durable ceasefire to address the issue of humanitarian crisis and tragedy, and then to move forward to find durable peace and stability that we need for the sustainable development in the DRC.  His message is clear; its the same message that the Secretary-General had and has repeatedly, echoed on this issue.  And as I just mentioned to you, Mr. Obasanjo is on an exploratory mission right now.  This is his first mission as a Special Envoy.  He will continue his efforts and then he will come back and report to the Secretary-General. Question:&#160; There is this thing&#133; http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Deputy Spokesperson:  Youve had two questions.  Question:&#160; In view of last week&#146;s developments in Burma, wherein pro-democracy activists were sentenced to prison for two years to 65 years, what&#146;s going to be the Secretary-General&#146;s role now, approach... http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Question:  In view of last weeks developments in Burma, wherein pro-democracy activists were sentenced to prison for two years to 65 years, whats going to be the Secretary-Generals role now, approach now, for his good offices role in Burma? Deputy Spokesperson:  The Secretary-Generals good offices role remains the same, and we did issue a strong statement regarding the latest in Myanmar last week.  Question:&#160; And do you have any information on Mr. Gambari&#146;s visit to Burma next month or this month? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Deputy Spokesperson:  I dont have anything specific to announce at this time.  One for you and the one for Matthew.  Yes? Question:&#160; Just a question about Turkmenistan.&#160; They send a request if the UN can monitor the parliamentary elections there in December.&#160; Do you have an answer whether the UN is going to do this? http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2008/db081117.doc.htm Deputy Spokesperson:  Well check for you. [The Deputy Spokesperson later added that the United Nations had received an invitation to send representatives to visit Turkmenistan on the occasion of the parliamentary elections scheduled to take place on 14 December.  The United Nations was reviewing the request, she said.]