San Marino ‘dynamic contributor’ to UN’s work, says Secretary-General

Stressing that the reach of San Marino goes far beyond its size, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today hailed the numerous contributions made by the small European nation to the work of the United Nations in fields ranging from the rights of the disabled to reform of the world body.

“San Marino is an excellent example of indispensable role played by small States,” Mr. Ban said in a video message for an event on San Marino and international organizations.

“It is often among them that the United Nations – and its Secretary-General – can find the surest and most consistent support,” he added.

Mr. Ban noted that as Chairman of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, San Marino spearheaded a “vibrant” campaign to end violence against women, and thereby provided support for his own campaign on the same subject.

The country was also among the first countries to sign and ratify the Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol, he said, pointing out that “this is a landmark instrument and the latest in long list of human rights conventions that San Marino has joined.”

In addition, last year, the European nation organized an important event on Religions for Peace and Development with panellists representing the world’s great religions, highlighting the priority the country gives to the religious dimension of the intercultural dialogue.

Mr. Ban also noted that San Marino – a “driving force” on UN reform – has co-facilitated the important working group on revitalizing the General Assembly.

“The country is a dynamic contributor to the work of the United Nations, and an eloquent advocate of human rights, development and peace,” the Secretary-General said.