UN document is a missed opportunity

9.00.00am GMT Thu 15th Sep 2005

Agreement needed on UN summit goals

The United Nations World summit, which begins today may be set to end in disagreement as rows continue over a number of key issues, including the definition of terrorism, non-proliferation, and reform of the UN. The United Nations final draft document has little progress on plans for UN reform or on aid. There is no new money for aid or debt relief, and the language on fair trade has been weakened. Nor has there been movement on climate change, arms proliferation or expansion of the Security Council.

Sir Menzies Campbell, Liberal Democrat Shadow Foreign Secretary said "The heads of government have an awesome responsibility. Opinion throughout the world simply will not understand if they fail to reach agreement on the means by which to combat poverty, or a programme to prevent the spread of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction."

Sir. Menzies further said "It is a matter of profound regret that an opportunity has been missed. There are some positive measures, but the final draft has too many omissions and lacks commitment. The UN is only as strong as its members and they have failed to equip the organisation with the means to meet the challenges it will undoubtedly face."

Andrew George, Liberal Democrat Shadow International Development Secretary said "The UN Summit is a litmus test for our commitment to ending poverty, but is already riven with back-peddling and spin. The truth is we're not even close to meeting the Millennium Development Goals. Conditions in Sub-Saharan Africa are worse now than they were a decade ago. Tony Blair and G8 leaders promised action for Africa at Gleneagles; they must now deliver."