INTERVENTION BY MR. PRAYONO ATIYANTO, MEMBER OF THE INDONESIAN DELEGATION, CONCERNING THE ISSUE OF IMPROVING THE WORKING METHOS OF THE FIFTH COMMITTEE OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY

New York, 6 September 1998

Mr. President,

It would remiss if my delegation did not express a few words concerning the issue of improving the working methods of the Fifth Committee. Let me first, however, express our deep appreciation and thanks to His Excellency Ambassador Anwarul Chowdhury of Bangladesh as Chairman of the Fifth Committee of the 52nd Session of the General Assembly for his tireless efforts in leading the discussion on improving the working methods of the Fifth Committee. My delegation holds the view that we should not be disheartened that our consideration of this subject could not be completed during this session. Rather, we are heartened that discussion on this subject has received serious attention and great interest from many delegations.

Mr. President,

We do not believe that the importance of improving the working methods of the Fifth Committee could not be shared among delegations. We do not believe that the member states have the opinion that the work of the Fifth Committee could not be further improved. However, we do believe and understand that our discussion on improving the working methods of the Fifth Committee has not been a perfect one. Therefore, what has become fundamental for us is to find any common ground that could be understood by and meet the concerns of all. Our understanding must be one which is for the best interest of this Organization and a true reflection of the wishes of the member states.

Mr. President,

Having said that, my delegation, for one, and I believe also other members of the Group of 77 and China share the view, that it is important for us to continue our joint effort to make the work of the Fifth Committee better and more productive in the 53rd session of the General Assembly. In this regard, the collegial spirit and partnership which has permeated so far among delegations has in fact already proved to be an important asset, and therefore must be maintained.

Thank you.