October 21, 1997
Statement by SOH TZE BIAN Representative of Singapore
Mr. Chairman,
While much comfort can be drawn from what has already been achieved, it seems clear to us that our sights must now be fixed on what lies ahead of us.
My delegation is of the view that in the light of the progress which has been made, we are on course for the diplomatic conference to be convened
next year. We join all delegations before us in expressing our deep
appreciation to the Government of Italy for their kind offer to host the
conference in Rome in June 1998. It seems to us fitting that the city whose
ancient empire is the source of many of our modem legal systems should be chosen as the venue for this momentous occasion.
We therefore urge delegations to accept this generous offer with gratitude and look forward to the active participation in it by the largest number of states, especially those from the developing world, so that the Court will indeed be a universally accepted institution.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.