October 21, 1997

Statement by the Representative of Finland, Ms. Marja Lehto

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Mr. Chairman,

The growing commitment to the Court was demonstrated last year by the adoption of resolution 51/207 which set the date for the conference of plenipotentiaries with a view to finalizing and adopting a convention on the establishment of an international criminal court. My delegation strongly supported that decision and we continue to be committed to the establishment, in the given timetable, of a court that is independent, effective and accessible.

Wider participation promotes the universality of the future ICC. Last year's resolution established to this end a special fund for the participation of least developed countries in the work of the preparatory committee and in the conference. Finland is one of the countries that have voluntarily contributed to that fund.

Mr. Chairman.

The Conference in Rome will be a unique opportunity to give proof of our commitment to the objective of effective international criminal justice. We are confident that the conference will successfully accomplish its mandate and adopt a convention on the establishment of the International Criminal Court. This will be an important step in transforming the powerful idea into a living reality.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman