"We must be aware that women and children continue to be one of the most vulnerable categories in the context of HIV, particularly in conflict and post- conflict situations. They are frequently either combatants or victims of sexual exploitation by parties to conflict. The epidemic also negatively affects the potential of women to participate in conflict prevention and settlement.

"Unfortunately, Mr. President, we are still confronted today with an increasing number of cases of sexual violence in the context of conflict, at a time when conflicts are themselves growing in number and intensity. When combined with HIV/AIDS, these situations become particularly explosive ones."

"Portugal commends the collaboration between DPKO and UNAIDS in addressing HIV and AIDS awareness among peacekeeping personnel, and believes that the United Nations should take the lead in setting the highest possible medical standards in protecting both UN personnel and the local population from this epidemic."

"Likewise, the adoption of the comprehensive strategy to eliminate sexual abuse in United Nations peacekeeping and peacebuilding operations is a major step in the right direction. The zero tolerance policy in these missions stands also as a key factor in this area, while a comprehensive policy to prevent sexual abuse should extend to all fields of the United Nations' work.

"It is important that countries increasingly harmonize pre-deployment and in-country awareness programmes, as it is as important to raise awareness of peacekeeping and peacebuilding personnel of the medical risks in the mission area, as well as their capacity to deal with them.

"Indeed, when these two elements are brought together, they have the potential to generate devastating consequences for whole regions and states, striking the most vital elements of society, namely their youth, including in particular women and children, specially when rape is used as a weapon of war and intimidation."

"In this regard, we welcome the measures undertaken by DPKO aimed at improving the awareness programmes for peacekeepers and peacebuilders, and, in particular, having HIV and AIDS advisers and focal points in United Nations missions. We believe that DPKO and UNAIDS efforts will have to be further complemented by ensuring that the medical guidelines for operations are fully implemented."

"Furthermore conflict normally fosters the displacement of civilians, especially women and girls, increasing their exposure to HIV. In this context we believe there is a need to implement effective integrated programs that address both sexual violence, HIV prevention and AIDS treatment in conflict and post conflict settings."

"Do not doubt, Mr. President, that an effective response to HIV and AIDS through the prevention of sexual violence in conflict and post conflict situations, will greatly contribute to increase the capacity of UN missions in their tasks of protecting civilians and furthering human rights."

"As we know, there is a high prevalence of HIV among women who have been victims of sexual violence and we cannot disregard this fact and its lasting consequences when we address peacebuilding strategies in post-conflict societies."