Speaking in Fiji’s capacity as Chair of the Group of 77 and China, Ambassador Peter Thomson (pictured) addressed the UN’s Third Committee today on the need for enhanced global action on the eradication of racism and racial discrimination.
He said the Group of 77 calls on the United Nations system and the international community to oppose religious intolerance and xenophobia and to enhance dialogue with the aim of promoting tolerance, mutual understanding and respect of ethnic, cultural and religious diversity. Ambassador Thomson said that respect for diversity was critical to combating the scourge of racism.
Fiji’s Ambassador said that the Group of 77 would be tabling a resolution this week at the United Nations calling for greater global efforts for the total elimination of racism and racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. He said he hoped that this important resolution would be adopted on a consensus basis by UN Member States.
Ambassador Thomson said that the Group of 77 reaffirmed its commitment to the full and effective implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action and the outcome of the 2009 Durban Review Conference. He said such commitment was aimed at the elimination of all forms of discrimination that hinder the full enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms of millions of people around the world.
Fiji’s Ambassador said that the struggle against racism and racial discrimination must be based on human solidarity, and be waged through cooperation, partnership and inclusion. Ambassador Thomson said the Group of 77 agreed that the struggle must also be engaged at all levels, saying that at the national level the equal participation of all individuals and peoples in the formation of just, equitable, democratic and inclusive societies continues to be an absolute necessity.
MINFO