DATE=10/31/2002

TYPE=EDITORIAL

NUMBER=0-10223

TITLE=EDITORIAL: BUSH ON THE UNITED NATIONS

INTERNET=Yes

CONTENT=THIS EDITORIAL IS BEING RELEASED FOR USE BY ALL SERVICES.

Anncr: Next, an editorial reflecting the views of the United States Government:

Voice: The United States was one of the founders of the United Nations more than a half-century ago. As a founding member, said President George W. Bush, the U.S. "reaffirms our dedication to this vital organization and our hope that it will continue to fulfill the vision of its founders." This vision includes strengthening ties among member nations through improved communication and security, and development assistance.

Through its relief agencies, the U-N assists and protects millions of refugees and displaced persons worldwide. In 2001, the U-N's World Food Program provided aid to seventy-seven million people in eighty-two countries and helped to avert a severe famine that threatened Afghanistan. The U-N also seeks to improve living conditions around the globe by immunizing children, providing safe drinking water, and fighting disease.

"The United States," said President Bush, "remains committed to helping the U-N advance human rights, health care, security, and education throughout the world." The U.S. continues to work with the U-N to provide humanitarian and development assistance to people in need. The U.S. also continues to provide basic health care through U-N agencies, including UNICEF.

As the world faces new challenges and opportunities, the purpose of the U-N takes on a renewed significance. "The United States recognizes the U-N for its efforts to support and strengthen the international coalition against global terror," said President Bush. "And we hope the United Nations will fulfill its role in addressing...the threat now posed by Iraq."

For the sake of having an international body that is effective, said Mr. Bush, the United Nations "must resolve itself to be more than just a debating society [and] must resolve itself to help keep international peace."

The U-N must ensure that Saddam Hussein is disarmed. If it doesn't, as President Bush put it, "We will lead a coalition to disarm him for the sake of peace."

Anncr: That was an editorial reflecting the views of the United States Government. If you have a comment, please write to Editorials, V-O-A, Washington, D-C, 20237, U-S-A. You may also comment at www-dot-ibb-dot-gov-slash-editorials, or fax us at (202) 619-1043.