DANIELE D. BODINI (San Marino):  Mr. President, I take the floor today to present the position of my government on the Question of Palestine.  San Marino traditionally supports the respect for every culture and every country.  It has always encouraged all efforts toward a peaceful coexistence of peoples and has always firmly refused all kinds of provocation, violence and oppression.  San Marino would like to express its solidarity toward the people of Israel and Palestine, both treasured in old and novel history and strongly support the Road Map objective.
The history of San Marino is drenched with a search for peace and friendly cooperation with all peoples, refusing the logic of war and the incitement to violence or conflict.  Therefore, our country condemns all kinds of terrorism and any kind of justification to terrorist behavior.
San Marino commends Premier Sharon’s political courage and steady commitment to disengagement as well a President Abbas for his tough stand toward terrorist groups and for pursuing resolution to peaceful negotiations.  Our country hopes that Israel and Palestine continue their effort for the implementation of the Road Map.  We believe in the existence of two states living peacefully side by side is highly desirable and more importantly possible.  It is necessary, therefore, in such a difficult time of our history, the countries and international organizations will reject threats and blackmailing and work with the aim to encouraging every step to recognize the responsibility that each country has to the rest of the world.  
The world needs now more than ever stability, peace and security.  Last September our head of state decided to act upon these aims and to involve our government and our institutions in order to renew and affirm the universal meaning of the principle contained in the Charter of the United Nations.  San Marino honors this call and expresses its commitment to peace and understanding amongst all people.  I thank you, Mr. President.