Asia-Pacific meeting report

Last week we have been reporting on forming of Asia-Pacific coalition, which is including: China, Indonesia, Malaysia, India, Australia and the Republic of Korea. The purpose of the meeting, which took place on the 18^th April was to discuss this year’s GA agenda. Their positions are stated can deduced from the statement below:

"State representatives of the Asia-Pacific region had a meeting at the Faculty of Social Sciences on Thursday (18^th of April), just before the General Assembly opening session. The meeting was hosted by the Republic of Korea.

The meeting was attended by delegations of China, Indonesia, Malaysia, India, Australia and the Republic of Korea. The states of the Asia-Pacific region represent quite a large coalition within the General Assembly.

On the topic of the Security Council reform, we agreed that a 21^st century Security Council must be transparent and effective. We also agreed that the communication between General Assembly and Security Council must be more efficient and the objectives of the latter must be more precise. The states believe in the expansion of membership and a greater representation of Asia.

Regarding minorities, we strongly believe in protection of diversity and respect of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. We’re certain that the rights of minorities should be respected and protected, however we must avoid intervention in internal affairs and politicisation of this question. But still, we have confidence in dialogue, promotion and brotherhood among diverse people.

In the field of forced migration, the Asia-Pacific states call for a better coordination among institutions which is in their opinion a key to any successful solution of the problem. Sustainable development, that will reduce numbers of forced migrants, is also important. We believe in reintegration of forced migrants into society. Regional cooperation on different topics is also crucial especially on prevention of smuggling and trafficking of people - two important objectives of this region.

Even though the prevailing opinion is that Asia-Pacific region is too big and that states are too different, our intention is to cooperate on topics that are not on the given agenda as well. Due to the size and influence of our coalition, we can pursue great goals for humanity.”