YouSaid · the spoken record

Andris Bērziņš

lines on the record: 46
first: 2011-09-24
most recent: 2014-09-24
sittings or episodes: 4
sources: un-general-debate

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“Last but not least, the post-2015 agenda should be built on strong accountability mechanisms and a strengthened global partnership. That requires the active engagement of Governments, civil society, the private sector and the United Nation system. In the first half of 2015, Latvia will assume the presidency of the Council of the European Union. Europe needs the world as much as the world needs Europe. That is why the Latvian presidency will focus on strengthening the European Union’s involvement globally. We will actively work to promote Europe’s cooperation with its neighbours and with the countries of Central Asia. I affirm my country’s commitment to actively engaging in efforts to shape our common future.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“I thank the Secretary-General for his personal engagement in bringing together representatives of Governments, business, industry, finance and civil society to discuss climate change this week. Latvia supports the initiatives of the Secretary-General. The post-2015 agenda must be consistent with all human rights and be underpinned by the rule of law. It should address inequalities and discrimination, including by means of the advancement of information and communications technology. Those are key enablers for all spheres of development. Gender equality is essential to shaping respectful and equal relationships in society. Those values are important for Latvia. As an aspiring member of the Human Rights Council for the term 2015-2017, we will continue to promote such values globally.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Our societies need honest and accountable Governments that protect them from violence and crime and ensure fundamental freedoms and sustainable economic growth. Fourteen years ago, we, the States Members of the United Nations, made a historic commitment to eradicating extreme poverty and to improving the health and welfare of the world’s people within 15 years. The new development agenda should go further. We must address global challenges, such as conflicts, terrorism, inequalities, the absence of the rule of law, climate change and natural disasters. The social, economic and environmental dimensions of sustainability should be addressed in a balanced way.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“The parties involved, in particular Iran, must make every effort to use the extended time frame to find a solution. We must work towards revitalizing the global disarmament and non-proliferation agenda. The success of the 2015 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons depends on re-establishing trust and a common purpose among the States parties. Latvia was one of the first States to sign and to ratify the Arms Trade Treaty. We urge all United Nations Members to do the same. Peace and security are both enablers of sustainable development and objectives in their own right. Without peaceful societies, we cannot achieve sustainable development. Each country has its own responsibility for achieving that goal.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Latvia is concerned about the safety of journalists during political unrest and conflict. All imprisoned journalists must be released. Freedom of the media and free access to information, including online, are essential components of any democracy. Armed conflicts in Africa have an impact upon stability and the sustainable development of the people. Latvia takes part in peace and security operations in Mali and the Central African Republic in order to contribute to conflict settlement and to improve the security situation in those regions. Latvia is ready to commit itself to strengthening United Nations global peacekeeping. Latvia welcomes the ongoing dialogue between the E3+3 countries and Iran, which aims to negotiate a comprehensive agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“I am convinced that cooperation and confidence-building between Afghanistan and its neighbours, including in Central Asia, will be key to long-term security solutions in the region. The growing negative impact of violent extremist ideologies in Syria, Iraq and other countries is alarming. Militant fighters of the Islamic State in Iraq and the Sham (ISIS) have exploited instability in those countries and now pose a threat to ethnic and religious communities. In that context, Latvia joined the United States in coordinated efforts by the international community to counter ISIS. We strongly welcome the adoption of Security Council resolution 2178 (2014) on foreign fighters. Latvia has already begun to prepare measures to prevent the recruitment of and support to foreign fighters.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“At the same time, the French initiative, aimed at restricting the use of the veto, merits our joint attention. The completion of the International Security Assistance Force mission in Afghanistan this year will be an important step towards assumption by the people of full responsibility for peace and stability in the country. Despite all the challenges, the legacy of the mission is clear. Peace and security have been strengthened, including greater respect for human rights and greater opportunities for the Afghan people than ever before. The recent presidential elections clearly showed the will of the Afghan people to live in a peaceful and democratic society. The people of Afghanistan will not be abandoned after 2014. International support to Afghanistan, including security protection, will be continued.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“However, only an agreement on a two-State solution, achieved through direct negotiations, will accomplish those goals. We welcome the elimination of Syria’s chemical weapons and related materials. While easing the continuing human suffering of Syrians is the immediate goal, the international community must continue political efforts to find a solution to that horrific conflict. Those responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Syria must be held accountable by the International Criminal Court. The limited ability of the Security Council to address the urgent situations in Syria and Ukraine in a timely manner underlines the need to move forward with reform of the Council. Latvia supports the expansion of the Security Council in both categories of membership.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“There is no alternative to an international order based on the rule of law, democracy and respect for human rights and providing the foundation for long-term peace and security. The resolution of the protracted conflicts in Transnistria, Abkhazia, South Ossetia and Nagorno Karabakh should remain high on the international agenda. In addition, the security situation in the wider Middle East is very fragile. A solution to the Israeli- Palestinian conflict is paramount in order to establish lasting stability in the region. Following the escalation of violence in recent months, the international community, including Latvia, has helped to address the emergency humanitarian needs of the people of Gaza. We hope that the current ceasefire will be fully respected by both sides.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“The Baltic people made their choice. The Ukrainian people have the same right to choose their own democratic path, human rights and fundamental freedoms. Latvia supports the complementarity of efforts among international organizations at both the global and regional levels to use all instruments at their disposal to prevent the emergence of a frozen conflict in the eastern region of Ukraine; to help and support Ukraine; to uphold agreements and commitments and demand their fulfilment by all parties, including Russia; to maintain unity and reject attempts to divide Ukraine by reviving spheres of influence and establishing hidden support to terrorists as part of the new norms of Europe.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Latvia hopes that the ceasefire agreed to on 5 September will be implemented in a sustainable manner. Latvia therefore calls on Russia to immediately withdraw its armed forces from Ukrainian territory and stop sending weapons and mercenaries to the terrorist groups. We call upon Russia to return to respecting its international commitments and upholding international law. Seventy-five years ago, the decay of the international system proved fatal to the Baltic States. Two totalitarian regimes — one under Hitler and the other under Stalin — divided Europe, and we lost our freedom for 50 long years. Twenty-five years ago, more than 2 million people joined hands and formed a human chain across Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. The Baltic way clearly illustrated the people’s demand for freedom and restoration of their statehood.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“It has grabbed part of a sovereign European country, using previously unseen tactics of warfare and immense propaganda against its neighbour. It enabled the tragic shooting down of a civilian airplane. It has shown that agreements and commitments do not matter, and it wantonly ignores and manipulates international opinion. Those actions cannot be qualified otherwise than as a threat to global peace and security. The world, including the General Assembly, has supported Ukraine’s territorial integrity. The illegal annexation of Crimea and Sebastopol by Russia has been condemned and will not be recognized by the international community. Russia has a vital role to play in security and stability in Europe and should be part of the solution — not part of the problem.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“As we enter a crucial session of the General Assembly, we will define our post-2015 direction. Our way ahead must be based on the triangle of security, development and human rights. If one of those elements is not present, the other two will fail. This year, we commemorated the grim anniversaries of the First and Second World Wars. Both wars began in Europe, but quickly spread throughout the world, destroying the lives of countless millions. The League of Nations and the United Nations were built on the ashes of those wars. Today again, global security and peace are challenged by forces willing to rewrite the history and rules of the international order. The aggression of Russia against Ukraine has defied the basic principles of the United Nations, uprooting the very foundation of the international system.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Latvia has been working actively to protect and promote Internet freedom as an important element of freedom of expression for an open and democratic society. Latvia stands ready to contribute to the most fundamental goals that should figure on the post-2015 agenda, namely, promoting peace, human rights and fundamental freedoms. Therefore, we have put forward our candidacy for the elections to the Human Rights Council in 2014 and the Security Council in 2025. Latvia counts on the support of Member States and gives its assurance that it will contribute to the work of those bodies in a responsible manner.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“Quality education is the foundation on which peaceful, prosperous and dignified societies are built. Following the economic downturn in 2008, Latvia has been the fastest growing European Union economy for the past two years. We expect to maintain that strong growth trend at the level of at least 4 per cent annually for the coming years. Latvia is now ready for further integration into the global economy by introducing the euro in 2014 and by joining the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. An empowered civil society is a key engine of sustainable development. We are proud that the people of Latvia are actively engaged in the decision-making process at all stages. In the twenty-first century the public involvement’s must be ensured both directly and on line.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“In order to secure the progress achieved, the international community must remain committed to the country’s long-term development. Latvia will continue to support civilian policing and to train military personnel. We will also provide financial aid to the Afghan National Security Forces as of 2015. Sustainable development and prosperity go hand in hand. During times of recession, structural reforms and budgetary discipline, accompanied by economic stimulus, bring results. While we can observe signs of global economic recovery, there is no room for complacency. To ensure robust economic growth, we need to ensure that the young generation contributes to it. Quality education is the key to empowering people; it should reach all. Everybody should have lifelong learning opportunities.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“Latvia will continue to offer its expertise in such areas as the rule of law and fundamental freedoms, thereby contributing to good governance and further economic development in those countries. However, it is essential to keep in mind that national ownership is fundamental in any reform process, . Latvia is stepping up development assistance for Afghanistan and the Central Asian States, particularly in the areas of transportation and customs. We see potential for the further integration of those countries into the global economy by developing international trade routes. The Northern Distribution Network already connects the region with Europe through Latvia. We are confident that it can also become a commercially viable long-term transit corridor after 2014. We are approaching an important turning point in Afghanistan.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“Latvia welcomes the reopening of direct Middle East peace negotiations. Latvia praises the role of the United States as the mediator. Negotiations should demonstrate the commitment of both parties to a peaceful settlement. We anticipate a two-State solution — Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security. Latvia is convinced that the resolution of protracted conflicts in Moldova, Georgia and Nagorno Karabakh should remain high on the international agenda. Efforts to resolve the conflicts should be increased. Latvia accumulated extensive experience during its transition to a free, just and democratic society. As a European Union member State with that extensive experience, we share it with countries in the European Union’s Eastern Partnership and Central Asia.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“The detailed report by the United Nations inspectors confirms the use of chemical weapons against civilians on 21 August. Those who committed war crimes and crimes against humanity in Syria must face the International Criminal Court. The agreement reached by the United States and Russia on the framework to eliminate Syria’s chemical weapons should be reflected in a Security Council resolution with the clear indication that Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations would be invoked in case of non-compliance. We encourage the new Iranian leadership to address the concerns of the international community. We welcome the stated determination of the new Iranian Government to resolve the nuclear issue, thus building confidence in the peaceful nature of its nuclear programme.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“The new development framework for post-2015 will remain high on the United Nations agenda for the next two years and beyond. It should set out a comprehensive and coherent framework around a single set of global goals, driving action in all countries. A set of peacebuilding goals should be high on the post-2015 agenda, in which the United Nations should continue to play the leading role in promoting the settlement of disputes by peaceful means. The Middle East stands at a crossroads. Events there have global impact, and the international community must take decisive actions. We deplore the continuing humanitarian catastrophe in Syria. The easing of human suffering is the immediate goal, and we commend international efforts to that end. I would especially like to thank the neighbouring countries for hosting Syrian refugees.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“The three pillars of the United Nations — peace and security, sustainable development, and human rights — are interlinked and mutually reinforcing. Respect for universal human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law is a cornerstone of international peace and stability. Fragile, conflict-affected and least developed countries face the biggest difficulties in ensuring sustainable development. Growing evidence shows that progress on the Millenium Development Goals in those States is impossible without first achieving peace and security. That leads us to one of the cornerstones of the new post-2015 vision: peace and security are basic conditions for a decent life and for the enjoyment of human rights. The priorities of the Assembly’s sixty-eighth session are topical and very pertinent.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“Finally, Latvia looks forward to a fruitful sixtyseventh session of the General Assembly. Let us address the challenges with true political will.”
2012-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 67 (2012)
“The time has come to start real negotiations on reforming the Security Council. We support the enlargement of the Council in both the permanent and the non-permanent membership categories. Any enlargement of the Council should include at least one new non-permanent seat for the Eastern European Group. The world is going through a period of turbulence, as shown by recent violent events in the Middle East. We strongly condemn the attacks on diplomatic missions in several countries as unacceptable. Latvia fully supports the freedom of association and the right to demonstrate peacefully. We deplore any attempts to use religion to fuel extremism and violence. Tolerance and respect for our differences are the key to preventing conflicts and violence, both in our communities and internationally.”
2012-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 67 (2012)
“Latvia participates in capacity-building in several conflict and post-conflict countries. We actively support nations in transition in their efforts to strengthen the rule of law. We welcome the fact that those issues are now part of the Secretary-General’s five-year Action Agenda and we are committed to their implementation. Latvia believes that economic and social development will benefit from the introduction of the principles of open Government. Civil society in Latvia actively participates in the decision-making process at all stages and levels. Latvia fully supports the work of a strong and effective Human Rights Council. We have put forward our candidacy for the elections to the Council in 2014. In order to keep pace with the modern world, the United Nations needs to change.”
2012-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 67 (2012)
“We are pleased that the EU’s Commissioner for Development, Mr. Andris Piebalgs of Latvia, will contribute to the panel’s work. The current framework of the Millennium Development Goals has revitalized global action on development and improved its effectiveness. Latvia’s EU presidency in 2015 will evaluate the progress achieved and contribute actively to the agreement on post-2015 framework, which should remain people-centred, focused, time-bound and simple. In recent years we have witnessed a growing number of people in many countries demanding freedom and justice. The international community must support their aspirations. We must help build stable democratic institutions and establish the rule of law. We believe that respect for human rights, good governance and inclusive economic development will help to prevent future conflicts.”
2012-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 67 (2012)
“Looking to the OECD’s expected enlargement, Latvia is ready to offer its experience with transition and with the kind of decisive reforms that are leading us to recovery from the recent crisis. Overall, Latvia has emerged from the downturn stronger and more competitive, with a balanced economy and a positive business environment that positions us well for the next growth cycle. Above all, the sustainability of economic health must go hand in hand with the process of incorporation into the eurozone. Latvia believes that the challenges can be overcome and aims to introduce the euro in 2014. International peace and security are closely linked with two other pillars of the United Nations, namely, development and human rights. Latvia welcomes the establishment of the high-level panel on the post-2015 development agenda.”
2012-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 67 (2012)
“The world economy remains fragile, even if some positive trends can be observed. Latvia welcomes all efforts to stabilize the situation in the eurozone and supports recent steps in that regard. We are working hard to be part of the solution and to become a net contributor to global economic stability. Latvia’s own gross national product grew more than 5.5 per cent in 2011. That positive trend is set to continue in 2012. Over the past decade, we have achieved significant progress with respect to both income and structural convergence. The quality of governance and economic structures in Latvia is comparable to that of the member countries of the Office of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).”
2012-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 67 (2012)
“In addition, Latvia will provide a financial contribution to the international fund in support of the Afghan National Security Forces. The future of Afghanistan is closely linked to economic development and regional cooperation. We encourage the full engagement of the Central Asian countries in discussions on the region’s future. Afghanistan has the potential to become a regional hub for transportation and transit. Using our experience as an entry point to the Northern Distribution Network, Latvia is already engaged in training Afghan experts in the areas of transportation and anti-drug trafficking. The global economic and financial crisis has focused leaders’ attention on immediate measures to overcome it, often diverting their attention from long-term global challenges.”
2012-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 67 (2012)
“In addition, the restoration of a meaningful presence of the United Nations in Georgia is needed. We remain concerned about the increasing number of incidents at the contact line in Nagorno-Karabakh. The conflicting sides should abstain from hostile public rhetoric and should concentrate on confidence-building measures. The conduct of major military exercises in that volatile region should be avoided. Afghanistan has been at the centre of the world’s attention for much more than a decade. We believe that the international community is fully committed to assisting the Afghan Government in strengthening its public administration and the National Security Forces. Latvia will continue its involvement in the European Union (EU) and NATO missions in Afghanistan. We also intend to participate in the missions after 2014.”
2012-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 67 (2012)
“European regional organizations have also been actively working towards the resolution of protracted conflicts in the wider Europe. We see a positive trend towards a political settlement in Transnistria, Republic of Moldova. However, only with progress on the withdrawal of foreign troops will any settlement be sustainable. A multinational peacekeeping mission with an international mandate could be a rational way forward. The consequences of the conflict in Georgia in 2008 will have a long-lasting effect on the security situation in the region. The European Union Monitoring Mission in Georgia is presently the only international player that monitors the implementation of the sixpoint agreement. Gaining actual access to the occupied territories would contribute to lasting progress.”
2012-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 67 (2012)
“We call for strengthening the efforts to reach the goals of the the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and its action plan. In that regard, we applaud the steps taken by the United States and Russia towards global disarmament and transparency. We hope that they will trigger further efforts to reduce the reliance on nuclear weapons. Latvia also welcomes the consensus outcome of the second Review Conference on Small Arms and Light Weapons. We should redouble our efforts to find solutions on the Arms Trade Treaty as soon as possible. Latvia welcomes the increasingly active role played by regional organizations such as the African Union and the League of Arab States in the peaceful settlement of conflicts.”
2012-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 67 (2012)
“Let me speak about some concrete challenges that require strong will and decisive action by the international community. The conflict in Syria threatens security and stability in the whole region and beyond. Latvia urges all members of the Security Council to find the political will to unite and resolve that crisis. The lives of innocent people must be protected. The risk of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is one of the most serious global threats. The international community should be united in its commitment to prevent it. Latvia is seriously concerned about the potential use of Syria’s stockpiles of chemical weapons. We deplore the lack of progress in dialogue with Iran on the nature of its nuclear programme. We believe that its full cooperation to clarify all outstanding questions is needed.”
2012-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 67 (2012)
“I commend the Secretary- General for his immense efforts in leading the United Nations and its Secretariat to fulfil its mission and implement the tasks with which the Organization is charged. The theme of this session is very timely. The United Nations plays a leading role in the settlement of disputes by peaceful means. It possesses the legal and institutional framework to do so. States Members of the United Nations have committed themselves to the principles contained in the Charter. The peaceful settlement of disputes therefore primarily depends on the determination of the national and international leaders. Only if they are determined can the United Nations and other international organizations and institutions arrive at decisions and take action.”
2012-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 67 (2012)
“Latvia believes that members of the Human Rights Council must lead by example through full commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights. Latvia attaches the greatest importance to that commitment by putting forward its candidacy for the Human Rights Council elections in the year 2014. Challenges to global security, development and human rights can be overcome only by our joint efforts. Latvia looks forward to a fruitful sixty-sixth session of the General Assembly.”
2011-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 66 (2011)
“In that regard, let me emphasize the principled and consistent position of Latvia and the EU in supporting the peaceful settlement of conflicts and values such as democracy, the rule of law and the protection of human rights. Those lie at the core of the EU foreign policy strategy. This year, we carried out the review process of the functioning of the main United Nations human rights body — the Human Rights Council. Latvia saw that review process as a unique opportunity to improve the performance and credibility of that important body. We took note of the outcome of the review process (resolution 65/281, annex). However, we believe that much more could have been done to enable the Council to live up to the expectations of countries and people.”
2011-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 66 (2011)
“Joint action is needed to unlock economic opportunities, to strengthen regional security cooperation and to develop infrastructure and transport corridors in order to connect Afghanistan with the region and the rest of the world. In addition to the role of the United Nations in maintaining international peace and security, the importance of regional organizations is increasing. In that context, we draw attention to the protracted conflicts in Europe in Transdniestria, Abkhazia, South Ossetia and Nagorno-Karabakh. Regional organizations — in this case, the EU and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe — must continue working to seek peaceful solutions. Good cooperation with the United Nations is crucial.”
2011-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 66 (2011)
“This year, we commemorate the tenth anniversary of the tragic terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001. We express our solidarity and sympathy with the victims of 9/11 and others who have been affected by terrorism all over the world. As we combat terrorism, we must also analyse its root causes. Our aim in Afghanistan is to help to stabilize the security situation and to build local democratic institutions. That will empower the Afghan Government to take over responsibility for security throughout the country by 2014. A sustainable solution in Afghanistan can be found only if regional actors, including the Central Asian countries, are part of the process.”
2011-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 66 (2011)
“However, in the current situation the international community must once again act together and find sustainable stabilization measures in order to prevent another downturn in the global economy. My country, Latvia, was one of those hit first and hard by the crisis but now is among the countries that are steadily recovering. Our gross domestic product is growing again and unemployment is falling. The recovery of the Latvian economy can teach us several 11-50702 26 simple lessons. First is the importance of acting quickly and decisively in adopting austerity measures. Secondly, in order to carry out structural reforms, there is a strong need to communicate and to engage with society. The third and final lesson, of course, is the value of international solidarity. We face a large number of transnational threats, including terrorism.”
2011-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 66 (2011)
“In order to achieve sustainable development, protecting the environment and preserving a healthy society are most important. However, in the twenty- first century we face a new challenge: non-communicable diseases. We commend the High-level Meeting on the Prevention and Control of Non-communicable Diseases and the adoption of the Political Declaration (resolution 66/2, annex). We hope that we will have an effective follow-up process. The economic crisis has reminded us that we live in an interdependent world. We are deeply worried by the level of uncertainty and volatility in international trade and financial markets. The primary responsibility for prudent governance is at a national level.”
2011-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 66 (2011)
“Turning to sustainable development, I would like to stress that we have a responsibility to future generations for the preservation of the natural environment in the world. That responsibility includes an obligation to ensure that the resources available to us now are used in the most appropriate ways. In order to address the challenges posed by climate change, joint global action is needed with regard to emissions reduction and global warming. Later this year, the next United Nations Climate Change Conference, in Durban, will take important decisions. Any proposed agreement on climate change action should be a reasonable compromise that is acceptable for the majority of participating Parties and does not exclude any of the major economies.”
2011-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 66 (2011)
“Today the international community has a historic responsibility to make the Middle East a safer, more prosperous and more democratic place to live. We must support the Middle East peace process with the goal of two States, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security. Latvia strongly encourages both sides to resume dialogue without delay. Sustainable peace is possible only if the Israelis and the Palestinians reach an agreement that takes into account the legitimate interests of both sides. The international community — the United Nations, the Quartet, the Arab League and others — should act together to help both sides to return to the negotiation table.”
2011-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 66 (2011)
“Latvia has recognized the National Transitional Council of Libya and supported the General Assembly decision to allow the Council to represent Libya at this session. Joint action is crucial, and we hope that the United Nations, in collaboration with relevant regional actors, will continue to play a leading role in Libya. We support the Security Council presidential statement regarding the events in Syria (S/PRST/2011/16) and the Human Rights Council decision to urgently dispatch a special mission to Syria (A/HRC/RES/S-16/1). The message is clear: violations of human rights and the use of force against civilians are totally unacceptable and strongly condemned by the international community. We look forward to an appropriate follow-up on this issue in the Security Council.”
2011-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 66 (2011)
“Now we are able to share our transformation experience by helping other countries in their own development. Important changes, often called the Arab Spring, have started in North Africa and the Middle East. People have gone to the streets demanding democratic reforms and influence on the future development of their countries. The international community has to support those aspirations and assist in building stable and trusted democratic institutions and establishing the rule of law. We welcome the timely reaction of the United Nations to the events in Libya, such as the Security Council’s decision to provide humanitarian and security assistance and to refer the case to the International Criminal Court.”
2011-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 66 (2011)
“Latvia is ready to assume greater international responsibility and is planning to engage 25 11-50702 more actively in the Council’s work by putting forward its candidature for a non-permanent seat. This year marks the twentieth anniversary of Latvia’s joining the United Nations, after regaining independence. In those 20 years we have undergone a complete transformation. From a Soviet-occupied European country with no trace on the political map, Latvia has re-emerged as a country with stable democratic institutions and membership in the United Nations, the European Union and NATO. From a closed, regulated system we have developed an open, liberal market economy. From a totalitarian regime we have grown into a democratic society where the rule of law and human rights are respected.”
2011-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 66 (2011)
“The revitalization of the General Assembly and the reform of other principal organs are essential so that the United Nations can keep pace with the modern realities in the world and to make the whole of its work more effective. That will allow consistent adherence to the principles of sound budgetary discipline and a fair distribution of expenses among the Member States. In the context of the global economic slowdown, we welcome the initiative of the Secretary-General to cut the United Nations budget for 2012-2013 by 3 per cent, and we look forward to a constructive discussion on that matter. The reform of the Security Council is long overdue. We call on all partners to work sincerely on this important issue.”
2011-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 66 (2011)
“At the outset, I wish to congratulate Mr. Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser on his assumption of the post of President of the General Assembly at its sixty-sixth session. I assure him of the fullest cooperation of the Latvian delegation. I also congratulate the Secretary-General on his re-appointment to his honourable post for a second term. I wish him the greatest success and strength in guiding the Organization and the Secretariat in all their complex tasks. I warmly welcome the State of South Sudan as the 193rd Member of the United Nations. Latvia has always supported strengthening the United Nations as the only truly universal international organization. However, the United Nations must change and adapt to the new realities in order to deliver the best results and sustain its influence.”
2011-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 66 (2011)