NEWS RELEASES
AXWORTHY EXPRESSES SUPPORTFOR UN REFORM PACKAGE
March 18, 1997 No. 53
AXWORTHY EXPRESSES SUPPORT
FOR UN REFORM PACKAGE
Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy today expressed Canada's support for the
first phase of reform measures announced by United Nations (UN) Secretary-General
Kofi Annan.
"We welcome the wide range of reforms announced by Secretary-General Annan. They
are a worthy contribution to the overall reform agenda of the UN," said Mr.
Axworthy. "Canada has been at the forefront of UN members that are working to
renew the organization and to make it more effective, efficient and better
prepared to meet the challenges of the 21st century."
The measures announced at the UN General Assembly include proposals for a
reduction in the next UN regular budget; elimination of some 1000 positions;
merger of three economic/development departments; extension of common services
arrangements for administration, finance, personnel and procurement; improvements
in the UN's capacity to deliver its programs at the country level; and reduction
in documentation.
Noting the financial crisis that the UN has experienced in recent years, Minister
Axworthy underlined that Canada is one of a handful of members that always pays
its annual UN assessments on time, in full and without conditions. This has given
Canadian representatives added credibility in their efforts to promote UN renewal.
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Catherine Lappe
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
(613) 995-1851
Media Relations Office
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(613) 995-1874
This document is also available on the Department's Internet stie:
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca
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