1 December 2000

The President made opening remarks at a special event in observance of World AIDS Day. In his statement on how men can make a difference, Mr. Holkeri said that educating young people about HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases is the best life insurance we can give them. He called on all of us to serve as examples and role models to cultivate the spirit of responsibility, tolerance, non-violence, gender equality and compassion for our children. The full text of his opening remarks is available in "Statements and Messages" page.

The General Assembly today completed its discussion on the Situation in the Middle East and adopted, after a recorded vote, two resolutions concerning Jerusalem and the Syrian Golan. The General Assembly also adopted four resolutions concerning the Question of Palestine. In the afternoon the Assembly discussed the role of diamonds in fuelling conflict and adopted a resolution by consensus.

The President attended a reception hosted by the Permanent Representative of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, H.E. Mr. Alounkeo Kittikhoun, on the occasion of the 25th Anniversary of the Founding of the Lao People's Democratic Republic.

The President made remarks at the unveiling of a gift to the United Nations by Ireland. In his remarks he spoke about the history of Irish emigrants and pointed out the valuable contribution of Irish people to the work of the United Nations. The full text of his remarks is available in "Statements and Messages" page.

The President met with the Representative on the Economic and Social Council of the United States, H.E. Ms. Betty. E. King to discuss the progress that has been made concerning arrangements for the Rio+10 Conference arrangements. Ms. King also assured the President of United States support for the process.