Visitors now: 12
Host Country Issues Concern United Nations
The United Nations Committee on Relations with the Host Country presented its annual report through the Sixth Committee (Legal) November 12, 2007. Visa issuance by the host country and parking for diplomats were among the main issues.
Considering the preservation of appropriate conditions for the normal work of delegations and the observance of diplomatic privileges and immunities to be in the interest of the United Nations, the General Assembly requested the United States as host country to take all necessary measures to maintain smooth functioning of diplomatic work for the U.N.
The report outlines several specific areas relating to transportation and security in which the United States could improve. The representative of the Russian Federation was particularly concerned with issues relating to new parking fees imposed on diplomatic vehicles at JFK Airport and ensuring that New York authorities complied with rules exempting diplomatic missions from U.S. taxes.
The Committee also recommended that the application time for visa issuance by the host country for Member States be shortened. The current time frame is reportedly inhibiting the full participation of the Member States in U.N. meetings.
Additional draft resolutions concerning diplomatic protection, criminal accountability of United Nations officials and experts on mission, the responsibility of States for internationally wrongful acts, the Report of the Special Committee on the Charter of the United Nations and on the Strengthening of the Role of the Organization were also introduced at the meeting along with a report on the United Nations Programme of Assistance on the appreciation of international law. More specific coverage of the meeting can be found at the United Nations website. -- Genevieve Cohoon, legal assistant, Berliner, Corcoran & Rowe, LLP, Washington.
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