October 21, 1997

Statement by H.E. Ambassador KHIPHUSIZI J. JELE

Permanent Representative of South Africa on Behalf of Member States of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which comprises: Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, the Seychelles, Swaziland, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa.

As to the diplomatic conference itself, allow me once again to express, on behalf of all the members of the SADC, our sincere appreciation to the Government of Italy for offering to host the diplomatic conference in Rome during June and July 1998. We note that six weeks have been set aside for its duration. Bearing in mind the fact that the classic diplomatic conferences of the past have been of a similar duration, we are of the view that provided the necessary political will is present, the Statute of the court can be adopted at that time.

In addition, whilst recognizing the obvious need for flexibility during the proceedings at the diplomatic conference, we do, however, wish to highlight the importance of the need to structure the debate in such a manner to ensure the optimal use of time by all delegates.

One of the goals in the establishment of such a court must be the universal adherence by all Member States to its Statute. For this reason, it is imperative that we encourage the widest participation possible at the diplomatic conference in Rome. We therefore welcome the decision by the Secretary-General, pursuant to General Assembly resolution 51/207 of 17 December 1996, to establish a Trust Fund for the participation of developing countries in the Preparatory Committee and in the diplomatic conference. We note further that seven Member States have made contributions to the Fund, which enabled 11 developing States to send representatives to meetings of the Preparatory Committee. We are convinced that more delegations would have made use of the Trust Fund if it had also been able to provide for cost of living expenses in attending these Preparatory Committee meetings. In view of the fact that the Diplomatic Conference will be taking place away from United Nations Headquarters, we appeal to all States to

contribute generously to this Fund to ensure that delegations from all Member States can attend the conference.

Mr. Chairman,

We have reached an important stage in the history of the United Nations. A window of opportunity now exists to bring a permanent international criminal court into existence before the turn of the century. Member States must redouble their efforts to ensure the diplomatic conference in Rome can complete its work successfully. Future generations will not look kindly upon us if we hesitate or fail in this task.

I thank you Mr. Chairman.