NEW YORK, SEPTEMBER 7, 2000

Madam President, Mr. President,

At the threshold of the 21" century, we live in a time of serious challenges and great opportunities. Today, there can be no doubt in our mind that a new phenomenon, globalization is on a strong march.

It is in this context that the United Nations should not spare any effort to unfold the hitherto hidden promises of globalization for the benefit of all mankind. By the same token, it is the common responsibility of the Member States to play their part effectively to counter the disadvantages of this new phenomenon, especially for those of us who are less fortunate so far.

In this regard, the Millennium Report of the Secretary-General deserves our full attention and deep appreciation. I am more than confident that his major conclusions will find their way to help us fulfilling the enormous tasks which this Summit faces.

Madam President, Mr. President,

It is often, but rightly said, that global challenges require global responses. In our time, nations can and will only be able to fight poverty, transnational organized crime, corruption, money-laundering, international terrorism and illicit drug-trafficking, if they act in concert. Hungary is ready and willing to play her part to this end.

One of the major concerns of the international community is the issue of the protection of the environment.

I believe that the time has come for us all to rededicate ourselves to address environmental issues, including degradation of the environment and, at the same time, exert redoubled efforts to preserve the blessings of nature on our planet for generations to come. The principle of polluter pays should find its proper place in all relevant international documents.

In this regard, Hungary is more than prepared to act regionally as well as globally towards this effect.

Madam President, Mr. President,,

For us, Hungarians, a nation proud of its history values represent the basics of our policies. The Republic of Hungary pursues a foreign policy also based on values. Consequently, universal values respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, including minority rights, democracy, the rule of law and social justice - remain close to our hearts and minds.

In this respect, I wish to recall that the United Nations played a more than commendable role in the international protection of human rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and various relevant conventions helped the flourishing of the dignity and fundamental freedoms of the individual.

As far as human rights are concerned, I believe that there is, however, a historical debt on the part of the United Nations. I hope and pray that international protection of the rights of minorities, including the relevant responsibilities as well as the accountability of the States concerned will also be drawn up in a legally binding comprehensive instrument. The sooner the international community acts, the better service we do to freedom., democracy and protection of human rights.

Madam President, Mr. President,

This Summit is a precious and timely opportunity to give new impetus to the reform of the United Nations. Our rapidly changing world needs a renewed United Nations. To better reflect the new political and economic realities, it is indispensable that the Security Council be enlarged also with new permanent members, including Germany and Japan among others.

Madam President Mr. President,

The anniversary of Hungary's one-thousand-year old statehood coincides with the New Millennium. I bring the message of celebration of our people to this forum. The values Hungary represents and the objectives we pursue will make it possible for us to take part in the renewal of the commitment to the noble purposes and principles the United Nations is called to act upon in the 21st century as well.

It is in this spirit that my country and my nation stand ready to contribute our share to work for a safer and more secure world with the help of the United Nations.

Thank you, Madam President. Thank you, Mr. President.