A/CONF.171/13 English Page 141 Economic and Social Council and the General Assembly for proper consideration. 17. The representative of the Syrian Arab Republic stated the following: I should like to put on record that the Syrian Arab Republic will deal with and address the concepts contained in the Programme of Action in accordance with chapter II and in full accordance with the ethical, cultural and religious concepts and convictions of our society in order to serve the unit of the family, which is the nucleus of society, and in order to enhance prosperity in our societies. 18. The representative of the United Arab Emirates stated the following: The delegation of the United Arab Emirates believes in protecting man and promoting his welfare and in enhancing his role in the family and in the State and at the international level. We consider also that man is the central object and the means for attaining sustainable development. We do not consider abortion as a means of family planning, and we adhere to the principles of Islamic law also in matters of inheritance. We wish to express reservations on everything that contravenes the principles and precepts of our religion Islam, a tolerant religion, and our laws. We would like the secretariat of the Conference to put on record the position we have expressed among the reservations that have been mentioned by other States on the final document. 19. The representative of Yemen stated the following: The delegation of Yemen believes that chapter VII includes certain terminology that is in contradiction with Islamic Sharia. Consequently, Yemen expresses reservations on every term and all terminology that is in contradiction with Islamic Sharia. In chapter VIII, we have some observations to make, particularly relating to paragraph 8.24. Actually, we wanted to delete the words "sexual activity". And, if we cannot delete them, then we wish to express our reservations. In paragraph 8.25, concerning "unsafe abortion", we find that the definition is unclear and is not in accordance with our religious beliefs. In Islamic Sharia there are certain clear-cut provisions on abortion and when it should be undertaken. We object to the expression "unsafe abortion". We wish to express our reservations on paragraph 8.35, relating to "responsible sexual behaviour". Written statements submitted on the Programme of Action 20. The written statements set out below were submitted to the Conference secretariat for inclusion in the report of the Conference. 21. The representative of Argentina submitted the following written statement: /...