UN approves Philippines proposal on peaceful resolution of disputes

NEW YORK—A United Nations (UN) special committee has approved the Philippine’s proposal that called on all countries to settle disputes peacefully.

The approval was an important step forward in the UN’s continuing pursuit for a peaceful, secure and stable world, Philippine Permanent Representative to the UN Libran Cabactulan said of the Special Committee on the UN Charter’s decision.

“That consensus was achieved on the language of this draft GA (general assembly) resolution indicates the full awareness of all Member States of the United Nations about our individual obligation to settle disputes in a peaceful manner and the collective desire of all to maintain peaceful inter-state relations,” Cabactulan said in a statement issued last March 6.

“The consensus also demonstrates the recognition accorded by the international community to the Manila Declaration as a landmark document on the peaceful settlement of international disputes,” he added.

“Most importantly, the consensus language reiterates the call to all States to observe and promote in good faith the Manila Declaration in the peaceful settlement of their international disputes,” he also said.

The Manila Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of International Disputes also known as UN Resolution 37/10 was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1982. It is considered the first important instrument of the work of the Special Committee on the Charter of the UN and on the Strengthening of the Role of the Organization, and one of its significant achievements.

Last February, Cabactulan said UN member countries need to abide by and renew their pledge to these commitments. “Otherwise we go against the raison d’etre as members of the United Nations, he said.

In his March 6 statement, the Philippine Permanent Representative said “The Manila Declaration and its provisions on the peaceful settlement of international disputes — remains as relevant today as it did thirty years ago.”

He added the Philippines will undertake several commemorative activities at the UN as well as in Manila, as stated by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario in November 2011.

In that statement, Secretary del Rosario said the Philippines will hold events in Manila and at its United Nations missions, particularly in New York, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the adoption by the United Nations of the Manila Declaration to highlight the importance the Philippines gives to the peaceful settlement of international disputes.

“The Manila Declaration and the peaceful settlement of international disputes are important in helping make our world safer and more secure,” del Rosario said.

“A peaceful and stable world is important to all nations,” adding that, “For the Philippines, it is of even greater importance, for global peace can contribute to assuring the safety and welfare of Filipinos.”