2014 General Assembly Opening Session Speech H.E.

Veronika Vita Marinko Thank you, Presiding Officers Let me first congratulate you on your election as Presidents of the 2014 United Nations General Assembly session. I am convinced that this year`s session will be a fruitful one under your able leadership. When Republic of Korea became a member of United Nations, we solemnly pledged to take active part in shaping a new global order, a global order that is free, fair and prosperous, a global order where justice and the rule of law prevail. Unfortunately some states are in continuous violation of international law. In this view, I must draw your attention to the seriousness of DPRKs ongoing nuclear programs. North Korea has failed to acknowledge and to act by UN Security Council resolutions and continues conducting nuclear test and launching missiles. We urge the international community to step together and stop DPRK's nuclear weapons program. Ladies and gentlemen, Today, we are facing with new global challenges, such as climate change, terrorism and interstate conflicts. This calls for even further and stronger cooperation among states and the role of United Nations is becoming more important than ever. We believe that a united response to growing climate change is critical in achieving global happiness. The time for an international regime that would address environmental and developmental concerns on the global level has come. A global regulation is also necessary on other domains such is fur trade which is part of an international trade of numerous states. Banning fur trade would only lead to illegal hunt, illegal farming and illegal trade and therefore worsen the conditions for everyone involved in this industry, both humans and animals. Our country has set up a vision of global happiness. One of the pillars of this vision is promotion of human rights as one of the core universal values. Even though we do not have any national minorities we believe that all humans should be equal and none should be discriminated based on their race, sex, religion or other.

Honorable Presiding officers, Mr. Secretary General, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen, Today, the humanity is confronted with diverse and complex challenges that can only be overcome through international cooperation. This poses the need for ever closer cooperation among states. Expectations placed upon the United Nations are therefore higher than ever. However these expectations are also placed upon us, member states of United Nations. We should strive to reach beyond our responsibilities and be willing to help and reach out to others as well. In this regard the Republic of Korea will faithfully do its part. Thank you.