Maginness – EU Needs To Work Closely With New US Administration To Make World a Safer Place

Monday 19 January 2009

SDLP European Election candidate Alban Maginness MLA has called for closer co-operation between the new US administration and the European Union.

Speaking to party members in Dublin, the North Belfast Assembly Member said there needed to be effective leadership from the two continents to fight the challenges facing the world such as environmental protection, nuclear weapons and the global economic crisis.

He said: "The SDLP are proud to be the only pro-European party in the North.

"As we have done in the past and will do so again in the near future we are determined to play a full role in protecting the interests of our community in Europe.

"In the recent past, as we moved towards peace in Ireland, we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of other conflicts throughout the world.

"And in light of how we dealt with our own problems we need to see a united response from democratic political forces both in Europe and the United States.

"Furthermore, we want a positive response to the call from Henry Kissinger and others for steps towards a nuclear-free world.

"Dialogue is required between the US and NATO with Russia on "a drastic reduction of nuclear weapons.

"There must be reinforcement of the non-proliferation treaty especially in terms of monitoring and the ratification by the US of the comprehensive test ban treaty.

"All short-range nuclear weapons should be destroyed with the strategic arms reduction treaty has to be extended after it expires at the end of this year.

"We must give an absolutely priority to our joint duty to make this world a better and safer place to live.

"The SDLP as a member of the influential Party of European Socialists is best placed to use our influence to ensure this becomes a reality."

ENDS

Further information:
Alban Maginness: 07890 878955
Or SDLP Press Office 028 9052 1364