Statement by Mr. Nectarios Soteriou
Resolution L.49/Rev.1 “Implementation of the Convention on Cluster Munitions”
Firstly, I would like to add my voice to those of delegations which have expressed their deepest condolences to the Russian Federation for the recent tragic airplane crash.
I take the floor in explanation of our abstention on resolution L.49/Rev. 1 entitled ‘Implementation of the Convention on Cluster Munitions’.
Cyprus attaches great importance to the application of restrictions and prohibitions of weapons deemed excessively injurious, or which may have indiscriminate effects. In this regard, Cyprus is a state-party to all Protocols of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons. In addition, national policy and legislation is in full compliance with European Union standards and regulations.
Cyprus signed the Convention on Cluster Munitions in 2009 and relevant legislation for its ratification was forwarded to Parliament in 2011. However, the ratification process is still ongoing, due to considerations related to the abnormal security situation on the island. We remain hopeful that these issues can and will be resolved, which would enable us to ratify the Convention and vote in favor of this resolution in the future.
Thank you Mr. Chairperson.