gravity of the problems before this Committee and the real human suffering that motivates our efforts demand that the Executive Committee of UNHCR not fall prey to what may be acceptable practice in political forums. All of us here have an obligation to work for humanitarian solutions to the tragic problems of refugees across the world. My colleagues and I join you in pledging our best efforts in this endeavour. More than 11 million refugees are entitled to expect that from us.
22.
Your outgoing Chairman, Mr. Chiba, who has been such a pillar of strength and wisdom to the Office in the last year and to me personally in my first nine months in office expressed the hope last week that I would find this session stimulating and worthwhile. I am confident that, with your co-operation, and under the leadership of our new Chairman, Mr. Charry-Samper, this Committee will indeed meet my expectations.
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3049b (E)
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