YouSaid · the spoken record

Eler

lines on the record: 235
first: 2013-02-12
most recent: 2016-03-28
sittings or episodes: 32
sources: un-security-council

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

“As such, approaching security sector reform as part of a comprehensive and inclusive peacebuilding strategy and coupling our efforts with the broader framework of strengthening the rule of law is of utmost importance. Also, support to the security sector, especially in terms of resources, training and institutional capacity-building, should continue after the termination of peacekeeping operations, if needed. The role of the Peacebuilding Commission, the Peacebuilding Support Office and the Peacebuilding Fund in security sector reform is crucial in assisting national authorities to define and implement a credible security reform strategy. Every society has its own particular structures, needs and experiences with conflict. The experience of the past 20 years has shown that one-size-fits-all approaches do not produce viable results.”
2014-04-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7161Resumption1 (2014) · source
“We thank the Nigerian presidency for organizing an open debate on this important issue, and welcome the first-ever stand-alone draft resolution on security sector reform (SSR). One of the most important questions on post- conflict peacebuilding relates to the ways and means to ensure the viability of peace. Security sector reform lies at the core of this debate. A mismanaged and dysfunctional security sector can significantly challenge sustainable development, stability and peace. On the other hand, a comprehensive, coherent and coordinated approach to security sector reform will help form functional, effective and economically viable States.”
2014-04-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7161Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Our commitment to the needs of the United Nations regarding Afghanistan will serve as insurance in protecting the achievements of the past 13 years on the ground. I would particularly like to commend the valuable efforts of the United Nations and of UNAMA, which should be supported with sufficient means and resources. I would like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and colleagues of all victims of the heinous terrorist attack in Kabul in January, among which there were UNAMA personnel who lost their lives working for peace and stability in Afghanistan. Turkey will remain in solidarity with the Afghan people and will continue to contribute to a safe, secure and prosperous Afghanistan, as we have done for many decades.”
2014-03-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7139 (2014) · source
“There is heightened awareness of Afghanistan's problems among its regional partners, as well as increased ownership. The Istanbul Process maintains a comprehensive regional approach on integrating Afghanistan into the region and facing regional challenges as a whole, and therefore reflects that spirit. We look forward to the next Istanbul Process ministerial meeting in China. We also continue to support all trilateral, quadrilateral and multilateral initiatives aimed at the well-being of the Afghan people. In that context, the most recent trilateral dialogue among Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey that took place on 12 and 13 February, in Ankara, has been useful and successful. In conclusion, I would like to voice our strong support of the crucial role that the United Nations will continue to play during and post transition.”
2014-03-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7139 (2014) · source
“In addition, we must continue to support responses to the humanitarian challenges faced. We fully support the human rights mandate of UNAMA. Addressing matters involving grave human rights violations, particularly violence against women and girls, and the issue of civilian casualties should be prioritized, in both the short- and the long-term. Local ownership of human rights matters is essential to ensuring durable solutions in that area. As the fifty-eighth session of the Commission on the Status of Women took place last week, I would like to extend my great appreciation to the Afghan officials and human rights defenders who face daily threats and challenges in their work to enhance the human rights of Afghan women and girls.”
2014-03-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7139 (2014) · source
“Meanwhile, good governance, aid transparency and combating corruption will need to be prioritized, in line with the Tokyo Mutual Accountability Framework, while agreements on legal frameworks to define the nature of the international community's military assistance will need to be drawn up. The tasks that the newly elected Government will face are daunting in nature. At this vital juncture, the international community should continue investing in positive scenarios for the future of the country. In the short run, that entails the successful conduct of the April elections and the preservation of the current level of security. More crucially, perceptions of a power vacuum that could be filled by terrorist or organized crime groups must be broken. International support to capacity-building and good governance must continue.”
2014-03-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7139 (2014) · source
“Maintaining the comprehensive UNAMA mandate will provide tangible assurance of the United Nations continued assistance to the Afghan Government and people. We believe that Afghanistan's future should be based on a conscious strategy drawing strength from local ownership and seeking to pull together various efforts into a meaningful whole. That understanding is fully reflected in the resolution. Despite significant improvements in health, education, development, infrastructure and human rights, Afghanistan will continue to need the support of the international community for many years to come. Security, accessibility and inclusiveness will be the three grave challenges of the upcoming elections. Following the elections, security threats are likely to continue and even increase in the short run.”
2014-03-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7139 (2014) · source
“I would like to begin my statement by thanking Special Representative of the Secretary-General Jan Kubis for his comprehensive briefing. I would also like to extend my condolences to the Afghan people on the passing ofFirst Vice-President Mohammed Qasim Fahim, an exemplary Afghan leader who was known for his conciliatory approach and bridge-building capabilities. Afghanistan stands at a crucial crossroads, with key political, security and economic transformation processes under way. The coming months, especially after the 5 April presidential and provincial elections, will have an enormous impact on the way in which the next decade will unfold. Resolution 2145 (2014), on the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), arrives at a timely moment, when change and uncertainty dominate the Afghanistan agenda.”
2014-03-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7139 (2014) · source
“The Syrian crisis, which is resulting in the loss ofthousands of civilian lives before our very eyes, is a sad and striking reminder of the importance of unity and immediate joint action. In concluding, I would like to stress our appreciation to the hardworking personnel of the United Nations, whose courageous and tireless efforts help prevent the loss of the lives of thousands of civilians around the globe every day.”
2014-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7109 (2014) · source
“The Secretary-General's report (S/2013/689) highlights the comprehensive and cross- cutting nature of efforts relating to the protection of civilians and the importance of bringing together different actors towards that end. Mediation and other conflict-prevention mechanisms should be utilized to the fullest extent. As such, we welcome the relevant part of the concept note (S/2014/74, annex) prepared by the Lithuanian presidency, which emphasizes the need to consult a broad range of actors in the implementation of civilian-protection tasks and beyond. For protection-of-civilians mandates to be fully realized, the strong support of the international community is essential.”
2014-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7109 (2014) · source
“Disadvantaged categories of the population, such as women, children, people with disabilities and older persons, should be given special attention in the process of the design of protection-of-civilians mandates and strategies, as well as in the training programmes of military, police and civilian personnel. The prevention of sexual and gender-based violence in conflict, as well as the provision of services to those suffering from such violence, should be a particular area of focus. There is a compelling need, in working on such strategies, to listen more attentively to regional countries and organizations, troop-contributing countries and other relevant actors that are active in crisis areas.”
2014-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7109 (2014) · source
“From this perspective, we also fully support fact-finding missions and commissions of inquiry, and we believe that we should be able to make better use of their findings. To that end, States should provide full access to mandated missions to observe and report. Furthermore, the United Nations, its missions and its agencies could play a valuable coordinating role among the many actors involved, which could contribute towards realizing protection-of-civilians mandates. For United Nations missions and peacekeeping operations to achieve those goals, it is essential that they be provided with necessary support, equipment and resources.”
2014-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7109 (2014) · source
“The United Nations and the international community must assist them in this burdensome task, supporting them in terms of capacity-building and the provision of available resources in times of need, upon request, and taking the necessary measures when the actors primarily responsible fail to do so. Monitoring and reporting are among the most important contributions that peacekeeping and other missions can provide, especially in field missions where accessibility is a problem. United Nations and other missions can be crucial sources of trustworthy information, which can lead to awareness-raising as well as to better planning, protection and response. That increases the importance of objective, consistent and responsible reporting.”
2014-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7109 (2014) · source
“It is high time to start developing coherent and effective general strategies in order to respond to the ever-worsening situation of civilians in armed conflict. Those strategies should also respond to the changing international context and the new realities on the ground. States have the primary responsibility for protecting their civilians. Parties to conflict must uphold humanitarian and human rights principles and comply with their international humanitarian and human rights obligations, ensure accountability and provide the necessary support and services to those who are suffering or have suffered in situations of conflict.”
2014-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7109 (2014) · source
“However, the civilian death toll continues to rise, with recent alarming signals coming from Afghanistan, the Central African Republic and South Sudan, among many other places. The Secretary- General's report points out a multitude of challenges in Syria, ranging from attacks on civilians and civilian deaths to displacement, a lack and arbitrary denial of humanitarian access, the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, the indiscriminate use of heavy wepons and aerial bombardments, summary and extrajudicial executions, enforced disapperances and attacks on schools, hospitals and other public facilities, among many others. The role of peacekeeping and other missions in the protection of civilians in conflict is essential.”
2014-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7109 (2014) · source
“I would like to thank the Lithuanian presidency for organizing this important debate. The framework for the protection of civilians has increasingly advanced since the human tragedies of the Rwanda and Srebrenica genocides. The need to protect and assist civilians affected by armed conflict has been stressed in numerous Security Council resolutions since 1999. The latest report of the Secretary-General (S/20l3/689), the recommendations made by the Internal Review Panel on the United Nations Action in Sri Lanka, and the agenda entitled "Rights up front" have been the latest examples that have contrubuted to the elaboration of a conceptual and normative framework related to the protection of civilians. It is now time to look into how to translate that into practice.”
2014-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7109 (2014) · source
“I must clarify the facts regarding one particular accusation by one speaker. Recently, Turkish authorities confiscated material allegedly bound for Syria. Those incidents are a testimony to Turkey's commitment to international norms and is proof that Turkey is a State governed by the rule of law. Investigations are being carried out accordingly. Having said that, Turkey will stand by the Syrian people, and its humanitarian assistance to the Syrian people will continue. While the Middle East is going through a turbulent period, we may well be within reach of putting an end to the long-term Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It is time for us all to work together to achieve that goal and for both parties to show the necessary leadership and political will to prevent a failure, which we may not be able to afford.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“We call once again on the Security Council to devise an effective strategy under Chapter VII to end this, the biggest humanitarian crisis of the twenty-first century. Despite the full mobilization of the international community to implement resolution 2118 (2013), the first benchmark for the elimination of the chemical weapons declared by the Syrian regime has not been met. That is not acceptable. As we have legitimate security and environmental concerns, we shall continue to closely monitor the timetable devised by the Executive Council of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. We would also like to take this opportunity to underline once again that paragraph 4 of resolution 2118 (2013) envisages the complete destruction of Syria' chemical-weapons programme.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Reports of the eventual access of the humanitarian convoy to Yarmouk is only partially comforting, as we know that it is not a long-term remedy. Sadly, there are still hundreds of thousands of internally displaced persons who have yet to be reached. On the other hand, the burden of the humanitarian crisis on neighbouring countries has reached intolerable levels, posing a threat to not only domestic but also regional instability. We would recall that the Governments of Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Egypt and Turkey, together with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, in a meeting that took place in Sanliurfa, Turkey, on 17 January, appealed once again to the international community to boost solidarity with countries in the region hosting the majority of refugees fleeing Syria.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Turkey looks forward to a genuine process, through the establishment of a transitional governing body with full executive powers by the mutual consent of the two parties. However, just as important as the commencement of the Conference is the grim reality on the ground in Syria, where innocentpeople continue to be killed every day by bullets, indiscriminate aerial bombardments, ballistic missiles and, last but not least, epidemic diseases and hunger while under siege. The recent wave of escalating attacks against Aleppo is extremely worrisome. That brutality must end. There should be an immediate end to the hostilities and violence, and the presidential statement of 2 October 2013 (S/PRST/2013/15) should be implemented immediately in its entirety.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“We therefore call once again for an immediate lifting of the embargo on Gaza, in accordance with resolution 1860 (2009) and the ceasefire commitments of November 2012. The recent flexibility extended for access for materials for United Nations projects is welcomed by many, but declared not enough by many more, considering in particular the damage caused by the recent severe weather conditions in the region. Another source of optimism is the upcoming second Geneva Conference on Syria, wherein the countries invited and representatives of the European Union, Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, together with United Nations officials, will try to boost the chances for a political solution to the Syrian crisis, based on the Geneva communique of June 2012 (S/2012/522, annex).”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Two recent examples have been the transfer of $850,000 to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East to be used in the provision of fuel for generators for critical service sectors such as health, water and sanitation in Gaza, and the launching of the Jenin Industrial Zone Project, in the West Bank, which aims at creating business and employment opportunities for the Palestinians in the area. However, those initiatives can yield effective results only in an economy that is functioning at full capacity, where there are no restrictions on the access of goods and labour. Movements in and out of Palestine and the contiguity between Gaza and the West Bank are of vital importance.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Turkey therefore supports the inalienable right of the State ofPalestine to sit among us, under this roof, as an equal Member of the United Nations and fully recognized by the international community. Needless to say, Palestinian reconciliation constitutes an integral part of that strength. For our part, Turkey will continue to do its best in alleviating the difficulties of the Palestinian people through various multilateral and bilateral projects in Palestine.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“The basic prerequisite for progress in the peace process is to fully understand the linkage between security and a just peace. Only a just and comprehensive settlement to the conflict will provide a true, lasting peace and a secure, stable and prosperous Middle East. Meanwhile, the responsibility on the shoulders of the international community has not lessened. We will all be morally accountable if this window of opportunity for peace once again slips away. The General Assembly has proclaimed 2014 as the International Year of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. This should be a year for all of us to mobilize our means and capabilities to support Palestine in the economic and political realms. A politically and economically strong Palestine will surely be a stronger partner for Israel and the entire neighbourhood for years to come.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Turkey sincerely supports the ongoing talks between Israel and Palestine towards a just, comprehensive and lasting resolution based on the concept of two States, living side-by-side within the pre-1967 borders in peace and security, through a just settlement of all final-status issues on the basis of the relevant United Nations resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative. However, in order to achieve that most-desired outcome, the parties must refrain from actions that undermine the negotiations. At a period when we need to foster confidence-building measures, each and every step taken should be well-planned and taken with caution. For instance, the systematic coupling of prisoner releases with new settlement announcements is not helpful ifthe parties are sincere about the process.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Sadly, we continued to recite over and over again the litany of unacceptable settlement and demolition activities; acts of settler violence; violations of the basic rights of the Palestinians in the occupied territory; provocations against religious and holy sites, including the Al-Haram Al-Sharif and the Al-Aqsa Mosque; the continuation of the illegal embargo and the construction of the separation wall in defiance of international law and Security Council resolutions; and the most regrettable loss of lives and injuries on both sides. However, the initiative and dedicated efforts of United States Secretary of State Kerry encouraged us to welcome 2014 with optimism for a genuine chance that would lead to the two-State solution, which we have long yearned for.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“At the outset, allow me to express our sincere congratulations to Jordan for its membership in the Security Council for the 2014-2015 term and its presidency of the Council for the month of January. My delegation has full confidence that Jordan will make a significant contribution to the work of the Council in the coming two years. The year 2013 was another year that regrettably ended without any concrete advancement towards bringing an end to the oldest conflict in the Middle East.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“In the end, all Members of the United Nations deserve a more democratic, more transparent and more efficient Security Council, which we believe is also a requirement for maintaining the credibility of our Organization, the United Nations.”
2013-10-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7052Resumption1 (2013) · source
“We believe that those briefings are important in terms of conflict prevention and wish to see such meetings in all upcoming programmes of work of the Council. Finally, I would like to touch upon an aspect related to the Council's internal practice, which is again of particular importance. While taking note of presidential note S/2012/937, Turkey believes that the Council should act in due transparency and inclusivity in the appointment of the chairs of the subsidiary organs and the selection of the penholders. While fully acknowledging the positive developments related to the working methods of the Security Council, we believe that there is always room for further improvement.”
2013-10-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7052Resumption1 (2013) · source
“We also think that the Council should expand its consultation and cooperation with other international and relevant regional organizations, such as the Peace and Security Council of the African Union, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the League of Arab States. Thirdly, we are of the View that the Council should make better use of measures under Chapter VI of the Charter of the United Nations. Without any prejudice to its right to mandate measures under Chapter VII, the Council, as the primary responsible organ of the United Nations for the maintenance of international peace and security, should give some thought to utilizing different ways to reach a peaceful settlement of disputes. In that sense, we welcome the horizon-scanning briefings provided by the Secretariat.”
2013-10-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7052Resumption1 (2013) · source
“With regard to enhancing the transparency of the Council, we welcome the recently increased use of wrap-up sessions and encourage all members of the Council to hold such meetings at the end of their presidencies. At the same time, we are cognizant of the need for the Council's to conduct its own deliberations for decision-making. Secondly, we need a better structured dialogue and communication between the Council and other United Nations bodies and regional organizations. A regular and more substantive exchange of views among the Council, the General Assembly, the Economic and Social Council, and the Peacebuilding Commission would not only enhance the efficiency of the United Nations system, but also augment the transparency, openness and inclusiveness ofthe Council itself.”
2013-10-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7052Resumption1 (2013) · source
“In that sense, Turkey welcomes the steps taken in recent years, particularly through the milestone presidential note S/2010/507 and the subsequent complementary notes. On the other hand, there is still much to be done in terms of the implementation of the measures set out in those notes. First and foremost, Turkey believes that the Council's dialogue with non-Council members should be further improved. The entire membership expects more effective and frequent use of public meetings, informal interactive dialogues and Arria Formula meetings. That will enable better communication and interaction, and provide more opportunity to the wider membership to have more focused involvement in the issues ofcommon concern.”
2013-10-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7052Resumption1 (2013) · source
“Turkey attaches great importance to the efforts to improve the Council's working methods, which is an important component of the comprehensive reform of the Council. We have long advocated that the Council is in need of a change in terms of its structure and representation, as well as its working methods. The world is constantly changing and a number of developments are unfolding before our eyes with each passing day. That is why it is our sincere wish that the Council adapt itself to the current realities of the global political, security and economic scene. As it is our common responsibility to maintain the credibility of this body, we should spare no effort to enhance its efficiency and transparency, and work sincerely to ensure that its work is inclusive and effective.”
2013-10-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7052Resumption1 (2013) · source
“I would like to thank the Azerbaijani presidency for organizing this open debate on a subject that is ofparticular importance to the entire membership of the United Nations, and for preparing and circulating the concept paper (S/2013/6l3, annex) on the implementation of note S/2010/507. This debate has been very timely in terms of re-addressing the issues on the working methods of the Security Council, as we are fast approaching again a time of change in the membership of the Council. I would also like to express our appreciation to Ambassador Perceval for her work and efforts in her capacity as Chair of the Informal Working Group on Documentation and Other Procedural Questions.”
2013-10-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7052Resumption1 (2013) · source
“The success of future efforts mainly depends upon the Israeli Government's acceptance of the establishment of a viable, contiguous Palestinian State. There is also a need for the presence of a reconciled and unified Palestinian front under the leadership of President Mahmoud Abbas. Turkey is ready to contribute to all international efforts to that end.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“There is therefore an immediate need for a political solution that paves the way for a democratic transition in accordance with the legitimate demands of the Syrian people. We therefore repeat our support for the establishment of a transitional governing body with full executive authorities, in line with the provisions of the Geneva final communique (S/2012/522, annex). Let me conclude by reiterating that 2013 is a vital year for peace in the Middle East. It is now time for sincere and concrete action. We need to seize any momentum that would help to revitalize the talks between the parties and take concerted action towards a two-State solution in accordance with United Nations resolutions, the Madrid principles, the road map and the Arab Peace Initiative.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“We also welcome the establishment of the United Nations-Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons Joint Mission, tasked with guiding that process. However, we firmly believe that the rapid and unconditional implementation of resolution 2118 (2013) is crucial and that there should be consequences for noncompliance. Having said that, the conflict in Syria neither began with the use of chemical weapons, nor will it end with a resolution to eliminate them. The agreement to destroy Syria's chemical arsenal must not allow the regime to avoid responsibility for its other crimes. We should not lose sight of the fact that more than 100,000 people have been killed by regime's use of conventional weapons.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“The situation in Syria continues to be the greatest humanitarian tragedy of the twenty-first century. The crisis continues to threaten regional peace and security, while inflicting a grave burden on Syria's neighbours. The number of Syrians in neighbouring countries has reached more than 2 million, 600,000 of whom are currently in Turkey. The report of the investigation mission that was made public on 17 September serves to confirm our general evaluation of the 21 August incident with regard to the use of chemical weapons by the regime in Syria. We welcome the fact that, following that report, the Security Council was finally able to act in unity on the issue of Syria, with a view to the elimination of Syria's stockpiles of chemical weapons.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“As part of the peace efforts, we welcome the economic initiative of the Quartet, which aims at bringing economic growth to the Palestinian economy. However, any economic initiative alone cannot be regarded as a substitute for a genuine political settlement. Unless there is substantial progress towards a just and lasting peace based on a two-State solution, economic initiatives will hardly be a substitute for freedom, independence and full sovereignty. Only a political solution can pave the way to a sustainable economic life and prosperity in Palestine. In the meantime, Turkey will continue to fully support Palestinian reconciliation, which we believe constitutes one of the pillars for lasting peace in the Middle East. We strongly support the goal of establishing a unity Government that embraces the Palestinian people as a whole.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“We have noted with concern the recent reports by various international organizations, including the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund and United Nations agencies, that restrictions on Palestine are the primary source of the continued deterioration of the Palestinian economy. Turkey has taken urgent action to alleviate some emerging vital shortages, including providing fuel for generators for critical services such health, water and sanitation in Gaza. We have decided to send another urgent dispatch of flour supplies to Gaza, amounting to 10,000 tons this year, via the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, the transfer of which will start on 28 October.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“The international community must be firm in its condemnation and rejection of those and other unacceptable Israeli actions - inter alia, restrictions on the freedom of movement of people and goods - which constitute attempts to artificially change the demographic and multicultural identity of Jerusalem. The illegal blockade of Gaza is another issue of major concern. All restrictions on Gaza are unsustainable and counterproductive. As the ceasefire persists, a further easing of restrictions must follow. The deteriorating economic, social and humanitarian conditions in Gaza as a result of the restrictions adversely affect the already fragile situation in the region.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“We continue to be worried by Israeli settler violence, as reflected in land usurpation, the destruction of olive trees and provocative actions against the Al-Aqsa Mosque, together with the harsh measures taken by Israeli security forces. Those actions may trigger a widespread reaction and be detrimental to the ongoing talks. The situation of Palestinian prisoners, including children and women, under Israeli custody remains another source of concern. The Palestinian Ministry of Detainees recently announced that currently 5,200 Palestinians were being kept in Israeli prisons, detention camps and interrogation facilities. UNICEF's latest report reveals ongoing violations against children in Israeli military detention.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“We also believe that any provocative step against holy sites, especially the Al-Aqsa Mosque, must be avoided. I would like to reiterate once again that, as always, Turkey, is ready to contribute to all international efforts towards a just and lasting settlement. We are concerned, however, by Israel's continuing illegal settlement activities in occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem. Israel's expansionist policy remains a major obstacle to meaningful negotiations and undermines the prospects for a negotiated two-State solution. We are dismayed by the approval of more than 3,000 settlement units since the announcement of the resumption of the negotiations.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“We view as a positive development the statement issued by the Quartet in September on its determination to lend effective support to the efforts of the parties and commitment to reaching a permanent status agreement within nine months. However, it is also apparent that the window of opportunity for a comprehensive solution narrows as time goes by. We cannot afford to miss another opportunity for peace and stability in the region. We therefore encourage the parties to continue negotiations in a sincere, decisive and dedicated manner and to vigilantly avoid actions that might jeopardize the process. The parties must act in good faith, build confidence through a settlement freeze, prisoner release and security arrangements for both sides.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“The revival of the Middle East peace process and the successful completion of comprehensive peace negotiations between the parties for ajust and lasting solution have become increasingly critical against the backdrop of the recent developments in the region. The denial of the right of the Palestinians to have a State of their own has no justification on any moral, political or legal grounds. In the absence ofan immediate and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian question, the prospects for regional peace, cooperation and well- being will be only an elusive dream. In this respect, we welcome and support the ongoing peace talks that were relaunched last July by the Palestinian and Israeli leadership. We also appreciate the commitment and efforts of the United States Secretary of State.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“Allow me first to thank you, Sir, for organizing this open debate. I would also like to thank Mr. Jeffrey Feltman, Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, for his comprehensive briefing. Amid the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East, the Palestinian question continues to lie at the heart of the challenges that we face in the region. Turkey has always supported a two-State solution based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Palestine, sitting side by side with us on an equal footing under this roof and living side by side in peace and security with Israel.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“We must act urgently to stop the attacks of the regime, protect the people of Syria, ensure the withdrawal of foreign militia forces from Syria, and start the democratic transition process. In this vein, we once again call on the Security Council to assume its responsibilities and act urgently, resolutely and collectively. Let me conclude by reiterating that 2013 is vital for peace in the Middle East, and it is now time for sincere and concrete action. We need to seize any momentum that will help to revitalize the talks between the parties and take concerted action towards a two-State solution.”
2013-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7007 (2013) · source
“This is the third Ramadan that the Syrian people are living the inhumane and indiscriminate attacks by the Syrian regime. The situation in Syria is already the biggest humanitarian tragedy of the twenty-first century. The crisis is increasingly threatening regional peace and security, as well as posing a grave burden on Syria's neighbours. There is an immediate need for a political solution paving the way for a democratic transition in accordance with the legitimate demands of the Syrian people. However, the prospect for a peaceful settlement will remain elusive so long as the attacks of the regime continue unabated with heavy weapons, including ballistic missiles and chemical weapons. This is totally unacceptable.”
2013-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7007 (2013) · source
“In the meantime, Turkey will continue to fully support Palestinian reconciliation, which we believe constitutes one of the bases ofa lasting solution and peace in the Middle East. We strongly support the goal of establishing a unity Government, embracing the Palestinian people as a whole, within the timeframe determined in Cairo on 14 May. The achievement of Palestinian reconciliation and unity must enjoy importance and priority in the search for a fair, comprehensive and viable solution to save Palestine from the yoke of occupation. Turkey will continue to support the Peace Process, as well as the rightful aspirations of the Palestinian people to internationally recognized statehood in accordance with United Nations resolutions, the Madrid principles, the road map and the Arab Peace Initiative.”
2013-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7007 (2013) · source
“Unfortunately, Israel's illegal settlement activities in occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, remain a major obstacle to meaningful negotiations. It is time to seriously commit to and respect the established parameters ofthe peace process. The worrying situation of the Palestinian prisoners under Israeli custody continues to be yet another source of great concern. We are following closely the developments regarding the recent European Union guidelines banning funding and other provisions in relation to the occupied territories. It goes without saying that the blockade on Gaza is inhumane, illegal and unsustainable. We repeat our call on the Israeli Government to lift the blockade, in accordance with its bilateral and multilateral commitments.”
2013-07-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7007 (2013) · source