CD/PV.762
27 March 1997
ENGLISH
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Mr. ACHENBACH (Germany):
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In the view of the German Government, it is high time that the Conference, after these lengthy and in-depth consultations, should arrive at consensus on the work programme. Germany has already stated its priorities for this work programme: the immediate start of negotiations on a fissile material cut-off and on an effective, legally binding international agreement to ban anti-personnel mines. The vast majority of delegations are indeed willing to treat these items. I appeal to all delegations to free the way for concrete negotiations on these topics immediately upon the resumption of the Conference session in May. Germany is open-minded as to the wishes expressed by other delegations. In a spirit of compromise and cooperation on all sides, it should be possible to reach consensus soon.
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