YouSaid · the spoken record

Frazier

lines on the record: 593
first: 2020-01-13
most recent: 2023-12-22
sittings or episodes: 103
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

“Arresting the crisis will require a response commensurate with the catastrophe itself, with more than 258 million people globally requiring urgent and sustained aid. From Afghanistan to Haiti and the Sudan, populations are already at crisis levels, with leading famine, food and agriculture and humanitarian organizations projecting that the world is likely to reach peak levels of global hunger this December. And as we know, this crisis is not gender-neutral. Food insecurity and gender inequality are interlinked, because women and girls often have less access to and less control over land, smallholder agricultural market support and humanitarian assistance.”
2023-08-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9392 (2023) · source
“Allow me to thank you, Madam President, for organizing today’s important debate, and to wish you and your team every success during your presidency of the Security Council. Let me also thank the United Kingdom for presiding over the Council for the month of July. I thank today’s briefers for their powerful testimony, analysis and direct calls to action. Malta welcomes the issuance of the presidential statement (S/PRST/2023/4) for today’s meeting. Today the world is experiencing an acute, alarming rise in food insecurity. It threatens not only the lives of millions, but the societal fabric in myriad countries across the globe, representing a grave threat to international peace and security.”
2023-08-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9392 (2023) · source
“In conclusion, Malta reaffirms its commitment to a just and comprehensive solution to the Middle East conflict based on a two-State Solution along the pre- 1967 borders, addressing the legitimate aspirations of both sides, with Jerusalem as the future capital of two States living side by side in peace and security, in line with the relevant Security Council resolutions and internationally agreed parameters. We remain firm in our belief that this is the only viable path to peace.”
2023-07-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9387 (2023) · source
“Bolstering the PA’s financial situation through implementing the commitments made in the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee is also essential to ensuring its ability to provide security and vital services to the Palestinian people. We call for renewed focus on inter-Palestinian reconciliation and for the PA to organize its postponed national elections. Taking such steps while allowing for a democratic and inclusive Palestinian civic space will strengthen the PA’s legitimacy and bring us closer to achieving lasting peace.”
2023-07-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9387 (2023) · source
“Malta also underscores the need for parties to refrain from unilateral actions and incitements that attempt to alter the status quo of the holy sites in Jerusalem, respecting Jordan’s custodianship role. Unilateral visits to the Temple Mount/Al-Haram Al-Sharif, such as the one that took place just this morning, provoke further tensions and escalation. Peaceful coexistence among the three monotheistic religions is essential. Turning to the political situation, it is evident from recent events that the lack of any form of constructive dialogue is preventing any prospects for peace. Recent declarations from the Palestinian Authority (PA) that it is ceasing contact with Israel are concerning. Malta urges both parties to resume coordination and recommit to implementing the commitments made earlier this year in Aqaba and Sharm El-Sheikh.”
2023-07-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9387 (2023) · source
“We equally condemn settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, which has also seen a worrisome upsurge recently. In that connection, we welcome remarks by senior Israeli officials condemning those acts. Israel’s recent decisions to advance planning of thousands of new illegal settlements and expedite illegal settlement expansion procedures in the West Bank are a flagrant violation of international law and the relevant Security Council resolutions. We reiterate our call on Israel to cease illegal settlement building, demolitions and evictions in the occupied Palestinian territories. Those unilateral acts constitute a major obstacle to the achievement of the two-State solution.”
2023-07-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9387 (2023) · source
“Malta continues to recognize the crucial efforts of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to assist, protect and advocate for Palestinian refugees. In the absence of a political solution, UNRWA remains an essential stabilizing force in the region, yet it is facing significant funding shortfalls. We appeal to the international community to bolster financial support in order to guarantee the Agency’s service provision. We are also alarmed by the persistent threats to Israeli civilians and security. Malta condemns all instances of discrimination, intolerance, hate speech, violent extremism and terror attacks, including indiscriminate rocket fire towards Israel’s territory. Such acts serve only to perpetuate a vicious cycle of violence and insecurity.”
2023-07-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9387 (2023) · source
“These past months have been marked by worrisome levels of violence and casualties in the West Bank following operations by Israeli security forces that left several Palestinians dead. In Gaza, urgent attention must also continue to be given to civilians, particularly children who suffer under these dire conditions. It is disheartening to see a generation of Palestinian children so devoid of hope and aspirations — a generation that knows only life under the blockade. The psychosocial repercussions of these circumstances must not be minimized or underestimated. Malta urges Israel to exercise maximum restraint in the use of live fire and explosives in populated areas, to abide by international humanitarian law, to prioritize the protection of civilians and to ensure unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza.”
2023-07-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9387 (2023) · source
“I would also like to thank Assistant Secretary-General Khiari for his insightful briefing. This debate comes at a critical juncture. At this year’s midpoint, we are witnessing a situation of precarious escalations, high levels of violence and dangerous rhetoric, which are pushing us further away from peace. The deterioration of the security situation on the ground is leading to tragic numbers of Palestinian and Israeli casualties, including children. Malta remains concerned about the high number of grave violations against children, as noted by the Secretary-General. We call on all parties to continue working to end and prevent such violations and ensure accountability.”
2023-07-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9387 (2023) · source
“It is another stark reminder of its devastating repercussions not just on the region but the rest of the world as well. We can only reiterate in the strongest possible terms the need for Russia to end its aggression and to immediately and completely withdraw all its forces and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine, within its internationally recognized borders.”
2023-07-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9382 (2023) · source
“By persisting in its instrumentalization of food resources, Russia is responsible for widespread disturbances in global grain shipments and for exacerbating inflation in food prices on an international scale. Reduced food supplies will have knock-on effects on the lives of millions, hitting them hard in the areas of health, education and social cohesion. Malta urges Russia to change course on its decision and immediately resume its implementation of the Black Sea Grain Initiative. Cooperation and stability where food products and fertilizer are concerned are vital to ensuring food security and alleviating the suffering of vulnerable populations in regions heavily reliant on those supplies. Today’s meeting once again illustrates the far- reaching consequences of this senseless, illegal and unprovoked war.”
2023-07-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9382 (2023) · source
“Russia must cease illegally blocking Ukrainian seaports and allow freedom of navigation on the Black Sea. Closing the Black Sea humanitarian corridor will affect crops for the upcoming season, because farmers in Ukraine will be reluctant to plant if there is no viable way to get their crops to market. That will be felt by the most vulnerable populations, who will have no choice but to pay higher prices for food. In that regard, I can confirm that the European Union’s solidarity lanes will continue to assist Ukraine in various ways to facilitate the export of its agricultural goods worldwide. Food security all over the globe is now at great risk.”
2023-07-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9382 (2023) · source
“The Initiative helped lower food prices by almost a quarter since March 2022. Every shipment contributed to reducing hardship in the world’s poorest countries, since bringing grain to world markets lowers food prices for all. Malta strongly condemns the recent Russian attacks on the southern Ukrainian port of Chernomorsk, which destroyed 60,000 tons of wheat destined for China, as well as grain export infrastructure. We also condemn the continued night-time bombings in and around the ports of Odesa and Mykolayiv. Those deplorable acts are designed to degrade the functioning of infrastructure essential to Ukrainian exports. We are also deeply concerned about official Russian statements indicating that all ships sailing to the Ukrainian Black Sea ports will be seen as potential military targets.”
2023-07-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9382 (2023) · source
“Since its creation, the Black Sea Grain Initiative played a vital role in facilitating Ukraine’s grain export to international markets. Since its implementation, the Initiative ensured the safe passage of over 32 million metric tons of food commodities from Ukrainian ports. The Initiative also enabled the shipment of a significant quantity of grain through vessels chartered by the World Food Programme, providing essential support to its humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Kenya, the Sudan, Somalia and Yemen. Despite the Russian Federation’s claims to the contrary, over half of the grain and two thirds of the wheat from the Initiative went to developing countries, including some of the most food-insecure regions of the globe like the Horn of Africa, the Sahel, Yemen and Afghanistan.”
2023-07-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9382 (2023) · source
“I thank Under-Secretary- General DiCarlo and Under-Secretary-General Griffiths for their briefings. Malta strongly condemns Russia’s unilateral decision to terminate the Black Sea Grain Initiative. We see that decision for what it is — yet another regrettable example of the politicization of humanitarian needs that will only exacerbate the global food security crisis. It is evident to all that the onus of this development lies squarely on the Russian Federation. The weaponization of food is completely unacceptable and unconscionable. It is essential to restore the Black Sea Grain Initiative, rebalance the global food market and contribute to Ukraine’s export of grains to the countries that need it the most.”
2023-07-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9382 (2023) · source
“Likewise, the integration of AI into national security, counter-terrorism and law enforcement systems raises fundamental human rights, transparency and privacy concerns, which must be addressed. In conclusion, Malta believes that the Security Council has an important anticipatory role to play on this issue. We have the responsibility to monitor developments closely and address any threats to international peace and security that may arise in a timely manner. It is only by promoting responsible governance, international cooperation and ethical considerations that we can harness the transformative power of AI while mitigating potential risks.”
2023-07-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9381 (2023) · source
“In that line, Malta strongly supports the work of the open-ended working group on security of and in the use of information and communications technologies 2021–2025 and underlines that confidence-building measures are essential to increase the level of dialogue and trust for more transparency in the use of AI to ensure better accountability. Malta expresses its concern regarding the use of AI systems in military operations, since machines cannot make human-like decisions involving the legal principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution. We believe that lethal autonomous weapon systems currently exploiting AI should be banned and only those weapons systems that are in full respect of international humanitarian law and human rights law should be regulated.”
2023-07-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9381 (2023) · source
“The framework is based on four guiding principles: first, build on a human-centric approach; secondly, respect for all applicable laws and regulations, human rights and democratic values; thirdly, maximize the benefits of AI systems while preventing and minimizing their risks; and fourthly, align with emerging international standards and norms around AI ethics. Malta is ready to work hand in hand on AI with all stakeholders involved to develop a global agreement on common standards for the responsible use of AI. Moreover, within the EU, we are working on an artificial intelligence act, which seeks to ensure that citizens can trust what AI has to offer. It takes a human-centric and innovation-friendly approach to AI, based on fundamental rights and the rule of law.”
2023-07-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9381 (2023) · source
“In that regard, the international community needs to develop universal instruments that focus not only on the articulation of values and principles but also on their practical realization, with a strong emphasis on the rule of law, human rights, gender equality and the protection of the environment. As governmental and non-governmental actors race to be first in the development of AI, governance and control practices must be developed at a comparable pace for safeguarding international peace and security. Therefore, the Security Council must push for strong AI governance and ensure its inclusive, safe and responsible deployment through the sharing of experiences and governmental frameworks. Since 2019, Malta has been developing an ethical AI framework, in alignment with the Ethics Guidelines for Trustworthy AI of the European Union (EU).”
2023-07-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9381 (2023) · source
“Malicious actors could exploit AI for cyberattacks, disinformation and misinformation campaigns or autonomous weapon systems, leading to increased vulnerabilities and geopolitical tensions. There can also be negative human rights consequences associated with AI, including through discriminatory algorithmic decision-making. We must address those risks collectively through international cooperation, frameworks and norms. Malta believes that the cooperation of multiple stakeholders across the various levels and sectors of international, regional and national communities is essential for implementing ethical frameworks regarding AI around the world.”
2023-07-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9381 (2023) · source
“I thank the presidency of the United Kingdom for holding today’s briefing on this highly topical issue. I also thank the Secretary- General for enriching our discussion with his thoughts and insights. Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the way we work, interact and live. Peaceful applications of AI can help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and support United Nations peacekeeping efforts. Such efforts include the use of drones for humanitarian assistance deliveries, monitoring and surveillance. On the other hand, the proliferation of AI technologies raises significant risks that demand our attention. The potential misuse or unintended consequences of AI, if not carefully managed, could pose threats to international peace and security.”
2023-07-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9381 (2023) · source
“We also join the Secretary- General’s call to instil a greater sense of urgency in renewing dialogue and engagement. Finally, we once again call upon the Council to ensure the implementation and efficacy of resolution 2231 (2015).”
2023-07-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9367 (2023) · source
“However, a number of questions remain unanswered, including the IAEA’s inability to verify Iran’s total stockpile of enriched uranium. We encourage further and enhanced cooperation between the IAEA and Iran in order to improve information-sharing, including by providing access to camera data that it is presently withholding, as well as addressing the gaps in recordings. We also urge Iran to resolve outstanding issues and to address concerns related to the expansion of its nuclear enrichment capacity and the production of highly enriched uranium. Malta believes that a revived JCPOA should succeed in providing the necessary assurances regarding Iran’s non-proliferation goals and promote regional stability. In that vein, we call on all parties to take steps to return to full implementation of the agreement and of resolution 2231 (2015).”
2023-07-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9367 (2023) · source
“Malta concurs with the Secretary-General’s view that the JCPOA is the best available option for ensuring the peaceful nature of the Iranian nuclear programme. We hope that the parties will renew dialogue and engagement in order to reach an agreement. A diplomatic solution remains possible, and we should strive for the full and effective implementation of commitments under the JCPOA by all sides. Time is of the essence, and we need to seize all available opportunities. We welcome the cooperation between the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Iran during the past six months, including high-level meetings and the joint statement issued in March. We also took note of the steps taken to install surveillance cameras at workshops where centrifuge parts are manufactured. Iran’s timely and full cooperation with the IAEA remains key.”
2023-07-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9367 (2023) · source
“I will now deliver a statement in my national capacity. I also thank Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo and Ambassador Skoog for their briefings. We welcome the Secretary-General’s fifteenth report (S/2023/473) on the implementation of resolution 2231 (2015), as well as the Report of the Joint Commission to the Security Council on the status of the Procurement Working Group’s decisions and on any implementation issues (S/2023/479). We have taken due note of both reports. At the outset, let me underline that Malta remains strongly committed to the restoration of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and its full implementation. The JCPOA and its endorsement, in resolution 2231 (2015), remain vital for regional and global non-proliferation.”
2023-07-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9367 (2023) · source
“As Chair of the Working Group on Children and Armed Conflict, Malta urges continued strong support for the children and armed conflict mandate in the Council and will do its utmost to ensure a consensus on the protection of children in all country situations.”
2023-07-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9366 (2023) · source
“As the drivers of conflict become more complex, including owing to both new armed actors and chronic crises, we call on Member States to cooperate at all levels to mitigate the impact of armed conflict on children, intensify efforts to preserve peace and find political solutions to war. We also call on all the parties to conflicts to conclude and implement action plans and comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law. It will be crucial to invest in United Nations efforts to prevent and respond to grave violations, including by monitoring and reporting on them. Humanitarian access must always be facilitated, and actors should be able to engage with all parties, including armed groups.”
2023-07-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9366 (2023) · source
“Moreover, as the Security Council, we must make sure that United Nations peacekeeping operations and special political missions have sufficient capacity and robust mandates to ensure that child protection concerns are addressed. That includes during the drawdown and withdrawal of any peacekeeping operation. Malta is actively collaborating with the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict on child-protection capacity- training and will continue to do so in the coming years. We further encourage the Special Representative to further deepen the analysis of how gender norms have shaped children’s exposure to each of the grave violations across various contexts.”
2023-07-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9366 (2023) · source
“It is equally worrisome that Government forces were the main perpetrator of the killing and maiming of children, attacks on schools and hospitals and the denial of humanitarian access. The Special Representative’s progress in engaging parties to conflict to protect children is encouraging. However, we are deeply concerned by the deterioration in many situations faced by children, such as in Myanmar, South Sudan and Burkina Faso. The high number of grave violations against children in Ukraine, which does not represent the full scale of incidents, is also shocking. Malta calls for the continued objective, impartial and transparent listing of perpetrators in the annex to the Secretary-General’s annual report on children in armed conflict (S/2023/363).”
2023-07-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9366 (2023) · source
“I would like to begin by thanking the United Arab Emirates for its excellent work in June as President of the Security Council, and I wish the United Kingdom all the best for a fruitful and successful presidency in July. I thank the United Kingdom presidency for convening today’s open debate. I also thank Special Representative Gamba de Potgieter, UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Abdi and Ms. Violeta for their insightful yet sobering briefings. We are alarmed by the growing number of grave violations against children that were verified in 2022. Threats and attacks against monitors, which prevent them from reporting on the full scale of violations against children, are unacceptable.”
2023-07-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9366 (2023) · source
“We urge the Russian Federation to halt hostilities, withdraw its military forces and proxies from the entire territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders and embrace constructive dialogue and diplomacy as the means to establish lasting peace, security and stability.”
2023-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9364 (2023) · source
“We call on all parties to abide by their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law. The result of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is not only impacting nearly 18 million people in Ukraine, but it is also having ripple effects all over the world. In conclusion, Malta stresses once again the overwhelming necessity for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine as a matter of utmost priority. The Security Council has the duty to distinguish between the victim and the aggressor and recognize Ukraine’s right to self-defence. Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity must be fully upheld.”
2023-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9364 (2023) · source
“Nearly one third of Ukraine’s entire population has been displaced, with 5.9 million people internally displaced and more than 8 million people — mostly women — forced to flee. That has increased their risk of sexual and gender-based violence, while facing perilous health conditions. Equally, we are alarmed by the high number of grave human rights violations, which include killings and maiming, abductions, rape and other forms of sexual violence against children, as well as attacks on schools and hospitals, perpetrated by Russian armed forces. We are also alarmed by the systematic mistreatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian hostages by Russia in the temporarily and illegally occupied territories of Ukraine and in Russia. We demand the immediate release of all individuals unlawfully deprived of their liberty.”
2023-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9364 (2023) · source
“Therealityisthat, on 24 February 2022, the Russian Federation — a permanent member of the Council, which is entrusted with safeguarding international peace and security — decided to invade its neighbour. It was Russia’s decision to illegally exert the use of force and the devastation that has come with it. The end of the war depends upon Russia and what it decides to do next. The same goes for the prospects for peace. In the meantime, Ukraine has a legitimate right to defend itself from the aggressor, as enshrined in Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations. Malta’s position remains unchanged. Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders must be fully safeguarded. The grave humanitarian crisis generated by the full-scale invasion of Ukraine should remain in focus.”
2023-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9364 (2023) · source
“I thank High Representative Nakamitsu for her briefing, and the other briefers for their contributions. Today’s meeting was requested by the Russian Federation to condemn the increasing supply of weapons to Ukraine. This is the sixth time that the Council is convened on this issue in an attempt to deviate the focus from the appalling acts and violations of international humanitarian law that Russian forces are perpetrating in Ukraine. As observed by other Council members, these meetings serve one purpose only: for Russia to cynically try to justify its unprovoked aggression against Ukraine. Despite those distractions, we must not lose sight of therealityontheground.”
2023-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9364 (2023) · source
“We must return to a political horizon that is conducive to a just and comprehensive resolution of the conflict, based on a two-State solution along the pre-1967 borders, addressing the legitimate aspirations of both sides, with Jerusalem as the future capital of two States, living side by side in peace and security, in line with the relevant resolutions of the Council and internationally agreed parameters. We firmly believe that this remains the only viable path to peace.”
2023-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9361 (2023) · source
“Immediate steps need to be taken to de-escalate the situation, reverse the negative trends and relaunch credible negotiations and dialogue between the parties. We appeal to both sides to hold further meetings in the Aqaba and Sharm El-Sheikh quintet format in a spirit of de-escalation, and to implement the commitments made in the respective joint communiqués. The international community should come together to participate in and support the international and regional diplomatic efforts aimed at salvaging the stalled peace process.”
2023-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9361 (2023) · source
“Malta strongly reiterates its concern about the Government of Israel’s decisions to expedite the expansion of settlements and advance the construction of thousands of settlement housing units in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Such actions take us ever further from a just and lasting peace and imperil the viability of an independent, contiguous Palestinian State. We would like to remind the parties that the expansion of settlements, the demolition of homes and the displacement of Palestinians violate international law and the relevant resolutions of the United Nations, including resolution 2334 (2016). They also have humanitarian repercussions on Palestinian lives. We call on Israel to halt and reverse such unilateral decisions, which breed division and further inflame tensions.”
2023-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9361 (2023) · source
“Malta urges Israel to exercise the greatest possible restraint, abide by international humanitarian law and prioritize the protection of civilians. We want to emphasize that too many women and children, on both sides, continue to unjustly suffer the consequences of this conflict. We are also concerned about the detention by Israeli forces of Palestinian children for alleged security offences, and reiterate that depriving a child of liberty should be a measure of last resort and should last only the shortest appropriate period of time. We also remain concerned about the involvement of Palestinian youths in terrorist activities.”
2023-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9361 (2023) · source
“There can be no justification for such appalling acts of violence or for inciting or glorifying them. The subsequent attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinian residents and properties in the West Bank are also unjustifiable and must not be allowed to continue to take place with impunity. We are disturbed by the number of casualties and injuries resulting from the operations of the Israeli security forces in the West Bank. Military incursions such as that in Jenin on 19 June, which left several Palestinians dead, including children, and more than 90 injured, are deeply concerning. The disproportionate use of live ammunition and explosive weapons in populated areas during those operations only contributes to the cycle of violence.”
2023-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9361 (2023) · source
“I too thank Mr. James Zogby for his remarks, as well as Special Coordinator Wennesland for his sobering briefing and his continued efforts to de-escalate the volatile situation on the ground. In 2016, the Security Council adopted resolution 2334 (2016), which provides a clear road map towards peace. Nevertheless, the conflict continues, and serious violations of the resolution persist, pushing us further away from a credible peace process in the Middle East. In recent weeks we have again seen alarming and deadly violence against civilians, which remains a tragic undercurrent in this prolonged conflict. Malta strongly condemns the terror attack that took place near the settlement of Eli in the occupied West Bank last week, resulting in the killing of four Israeli civilians.”
2023-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9361 (2023) · source
“It will be vital to ensure that the process is further extended and secured beyond July among all the parties to alleviate pressures on food security all over the globe. Malta strongly believes that there can be no peace without justice. We urge Russia to immediately cease all hostilities and to unconditionally and completely withdraw all its forces and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. That is the only step that can lead towards a just and lasting peace.”
2023-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9357 (2023) · source
“In addition to the ongoing International Criminal Court and International Court of Justice processes, in May Malta joined the Enlarged Partial Agreement on the Register of Damage Caused by the Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, set up by the Council of Europe. The devastating impacts of Russia’s war on children, women and men will be felt for generations. Cases perpetrated by the Russian Federation of indiscriminate killing of civilians, torture and other forms of cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment, as well as sexual and gender-based violence and the abduction and forcible deportation of children, have now been widely documented. I would like to conclude by highlighting the importance of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which extends beyond Ukraine and affects global food security.”
2023-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9357 (2023) · source
“The risks that the occupation of the nuclear power plant currently poses to nuclear safety and security in Ukraine are a direct consequence of Russia’s illegal, unjustified and unprovoked war. Malta calls for the return of full legitimate control over the facility to the competent Ukrainian authorities, including the full demilitarization and de-occupation of the plant as a first and urgent priority. That remains a key prerequisite for restoring nuclear safety and security as well as upholding international law. We remain supportive of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s continued efforts to find a permanent solution for the safety and integrity of the Zaporizhzhya plant.”
2023-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9357 (2023) · source
“The attack has also brought with it irreversible environmental damage, since the Dnipro River has now been contaminated with 150 tons of industrial lubricant. We are deeply concerned about the fact that the Russian Federation has so far declined the request of the United Nations for access to the temporarily occupied areas in order to provide humanitarian assistance to those who need it. We once again urge Russia to comply with its obligations under international law and to spare no effort to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those who are suffering as a result of that destruction. Ensuring accountability for the perpetrators responsible is essential. Let us also remember that the dropping water levels of the dam affect access to critical cooling water for the reactors of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant.”
2023-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9357 (2023) · source
“I too thank Under-Secretary- General Rosemary DiCarlo for her sobering briefing. Malta strongly condemns Russia’s continued escalation of the war and its blunt disregard for international law, international humanitarian law and human rights law. We deplore the continued killing of civilians. The international law is clear. Civilians and civilian infrastructure cannot and must not be targets. As things stand, the number of Ukrainians in need of emergency humanitarian aid and protection has now reached 18 million. That devastating situation has been further exacerbated by the massive flooding caused by the destruction of the Kakhovka dam on 6 June, which left behind a still uncertain number of people killed and injured. More than 700,000 people in Ukraine now face significant shortages of drinking water.”
2023-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9357 (2023) · source
“We continue to highlight the role of the 5+5 Joint Military Commission and welcome the holding of the first plenary session of the security working group of the Berlin process International Follow-Up Committee on Libya. The safety, stability and protections offered to Libyans must be a priority. In that regard, Malta also underlines the complementary importance of advancing accountability efforts to achieve long-term peace and stability in Libya. Progress on all fronts will also be needed to address the difficult socioeconomic conditions facing large segments of the Libyan population.”
2023-06-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9351 (2023) · source
“On this occasion, we also underline the key role of civil society and youth in mapping Libya’s future. The security situation in Libya continues to severely affect children and is undermined by the proliferation of weapons under the control of various State and non-State actors. Malta strongly believes in the full and rigorous implementation of the 1970 sanctions and in the full compliance by all Member States with the arms embargo. In that context, we emphasize the role of Operation IRINI and welcome the Council’s adoption of resolution 2684 (2023). Security is equally threatened by the continued presence of foreign fighters, foreign forces and mercenaries. Their full withdrawal should be prioritized. Efforts to stabilize the security situation are to be commended.”
2023-06-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9351 (2023) · source
“That includes the finalization of the relevant electoral legislation that will lead to free, fair, transparent, inclusive and secure elections. The international community has an important role to play and must be ready to provide the necessary assistance and political support to the United Nations and to the Libyan authorities for the holding of such elections. It is crucial that the High National Elections Commission be provided with the necessary resources to complete its mandated tasks in a timely manner. Malta also emphasizes the importance of gender equality and of ensuring the full, equal and meaningful participation of women in all political processes and electoral reforms, as well as women’s safe participation in elections. Women have a crucial role to play in the reconstruction of peace, stability and prosperity in Libya.”
2023-06-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9351 (2023) · source
“We take positive note of the work of the 6+6 committee to overcome the political impasse in Libya. We are also encouraged by the Special Representative’s efforts and consultations with a broad range of actors, which are aimed at generating the necessary impetus and consensus to address the political stalemate. We support all such efforts and their effective implementation to develop the political consensus and legal framework needed to advance the Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process, under United Nations auspices. To that end, it is fundamental that actors, including all Libyan political actors, engage with each other in a constructive and transparent manner, guided by a spirit of compromise, to address all outstanding issues.”
2023-06-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9351 (2023) · source