A/RES/49/47
Page 2
Reiterating the view that such factors as territorial size, geographical
location, size of population and limited natural resources should in no way
delay the implementation of the Declaration, which fully applies to Tokelau,
Having examined the report of the United Nations Visiting Mission to
Tokelau, 1994, dispatched in July at the invitation of the Government of New
Zealand and of the General Fono (Council) of Tokelau, 2/
Having heard the statement of the representative of New Zealand, the
administering Power, 3/
Noting with satisfaction the continuing exemplary cooperation of the
administering Power with regard to the work of the Special Committee relating
to Tokelau and its readiness to permit access by United Nations visiting
missions to the Territory,
1.
Reaffirms the inalienable right of the people of Tokelau to
self-determination and independence in accordance with General Assembly
resolutions 1514 (XV) and 1541 (XV);
2.
Expresses its deep appreciation to the Ulu-o-Tokelau (highest
authority of Tokelau), the Elders of Tokelau, the Council of Faipule (joint
chairmen of the General Fono), the pulenuku (village mayors) and all other
representatives of the people of Tokelau, as well as the administering Power,
for the courtesies, cooperation and assistance extended to the United Nations
Visiting Mission to Tokelau;
3.
Takes note of the solemn declaration read by the Ulu-o-Tokelau, on
behalf of the people and their leadership, indicating a strong preference for
a future status of free association with New Zealand;
4.
Notes that the people of Tokelau, through the General Fono, the
Council of Faipule and other institutions, expressed their readiness to assume
full governmental responsibility and to conduct their own affairs within the
framework of a constitution which is currently being drafted;
5.
Also notes the determination of the people of Tokelau to exercise
their right to self-determination following the establishment and effective
functioning of all branches of government in accordance with their own
constitution;
6.
Welcomes the assurances of the Government of New Zealand to meet
its obligation to the United Nations with respect to Tokelau and to abide by
the freely expressed wishes of the people of Tokelau with regard to their
future status;
7.
Approves the report of the United Nations Visiting Mission to
Tokelau, 1994;
_________________
2/
A/AC.109/2009.
3/
A/C.4/49/SR.5.
/...