Ministry Statements and Speeches 2009

Explanation of position on resolution on “the role of diamonds in fuelling conflict: breaking the link between the illicit transaction of rough diamonds and armed conflict as a contribution to prevention and settlement of conflicts”

Statement by Ambassador Jim McLay, Permanent Representative to the United Nations, 11 December 2009

New Zealand takes this opportunity to explain its position on the Resolution on the Role of Diamonds in Fuelling conflict (document A/64/L.26). New Zealand joined consensus on this Resolution because we strongly support the Kimberly Process. We are disappointed, however, that language on Zimbabwe, in particular, was removed from the draft resolution and it was for this reason that we did not cosponsor. We are concerned at the situation in Zimbabwe, which was found to be non-compliant with the minimum standards of the Kimberley Process. We welcome Israel as the incoming Kimberly Process chair and look forward working with them. We also look forward to constructive and consensus-based negotiations on this Resolution next year.

Finally, Mr President, New Zealand expresses concern at the procedural confusion – I could use stronger language – that preceded the adoption of this resolution.

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