Oct. 28, 1996

Statement by Mr Mathew Joseph representative of Singapore tho the Sixth Committee

Mr. Chairman,

[...] Turning to the convening of the Diplomatic Conference, my delegation has no difficulty, based on the scheme of work recommended by the PrepCom, with the Conference being convened in 1998. We are however strongly of the view that there should be a window of a least three and preferably four months between the end of the last session of the PrepCom and the convening of the Conference. This is to ensure that sufficient time is given for the distribution of the consolidated text of the draft Convention, for finalizing positions and obtaining the relevant authorizations and approvals in the respective capitals and for the necessary administrative work to be undertaken. If the last PrepCom session takes place in March or April 1998, we are of the view that it would be appropriate for the Conference to be convened some time between July and September that year.

[...] We have to be realistic in recognizing that the establishment of a permanent international criminal court will not in itself prevent the future commission of such atrocities. But it will provide a vital legal framework for the efforts of the promotion of international peace and security. To put it simply, justice is not of itself a guarantee of peace. But, as it is often said, there can be NO PEACE WITHOUT JUSTICE.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.