YouSaid · the spoken record

Gonsalves

lines on the record: 79
first: 2010-04-22
most recent: 2021-12-21
sittings or episodes: 12
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 this is the final statement my delegation will make as an elected member of the Security Council and, indeed, for the month of December, I wish to commend you, Ambassador Abarry, for the manner in which you and your team have led the Council this month, with the assistance of the Security Council Affairs Division. For our part, it has been an honour and a privilege for my team and I to work with everyone on the Council over the past two years on a professional and personal level.”
2021-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8940 (2021) · source
“We commend donors who are committed to supporting UNRWA and call for timely and predictable funding to allow the Agency to conduct its vital work. Further, as previously discussed, we remain deeply concerned about the Israeli designation of six civil society organizations as terrorist groups. Before making my closing remarks, I would also like to take note of the recent virtual meeting between the United States and the Palestinian Authority in order to discuss economic matters. That engagement must, of course, be grounded in international law and support the two-State solution. We welcome all engagements to that end.”
2021-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8940 (2021) · source
“As we are aware, the 14-year siege on Gaza continues to devastate its economy, restrict the movement of people and limit the provision of basic services, including electricity, affecting medical services and hospital operations. We therefore reiterate our call for the Israeli authorities to lift the blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip so as to allow for the reconstruction of Gaza in its entirety. The plight of Palestinian refugees in the Middle East is also dire. The financial situation of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is worsening, with December salaries for staff — most of whom are refugees themselves — hanging in the balance and with refugees facing a stark reduction in services.”
2021-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8940 (2021) · source
“Yet again, we reiterate that the establishment of settlements in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem, has no legal validity and constitutes a flagrant violation of international law. Furthermore, the continued demolition and seizure of Palestinian structures are also deeply concerning, and we condemn these acts. These practices must stop. It is time for the Security Council to take practical steps towards ending the occupation and realizing a negotiated two-State solution. We remain very concerned about the very fragile situation in Gaza. Now more than ever, humanitarian and economic support is needed to support the most vulnerable communities.”
2021-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8940 (2021) · source
“We need to address the following issues with urgency: the escalation of hostilities in the West Bank and Gaza; forced displacement through home demolitions; undue restrictions on the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association throughout the occupied Palestinian territory; extrajudicial killings of Palestinians; settler violence; the impact of the coronavirus disease pandemic on Palestinians; and the situation of Palestinian refugees. This month marks five years since the adoption of resolution 2334 (2016). Since then, as we have heard and as we all know, the situation on the ground has only deteriorated, owing to Israel’s non-compliance with its obligations.”
2021-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8940 (2021) · source
“We have repeatedly reaffirmed the vision of a two-State solution based on pre-1967 borders, with Palestinians and Israelis living peacefully side by side. This is, indeed, a vision backed by international law, resolution 2334 (2016) and numerous other resolutions of the Security Council and the General Assembly. We emphasize again the need for Israel to end its aggression, occupation and annexation. The lack of progress towards the two-State solution is, quite frankly, egregious.”
2021-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8940 (2021) · source
“I too would like to thank Special Coordinator Tor Wennesland for his comprehensive briefing. A resolution of the matter before us this morning is long overdue. The suffering of Palestinians and the injustice meted out for decades are etched into the hearts and minds of many people. Recently, we saw football fans display their solidarity with the just Palestinian cause at the Arab Cup, held in Qatar. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines continues to stand in solidarity with the State of Palestine in support of international law and is mindful that the world is watching and losing faith in the Security Council and our rules-based international order for failing to uphold the very rules that we adopt.”
2021-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8940 (2021) · source
“In conclusion, we reiterate our unwavering support for the work of UNAMI, and all efforts aimed at achieving peace, security and prosperity in Iraq, in line with the country’s sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity.”
2021-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8910 (2021) · source
“The coronavirus disease pandemic remains an issue with far-reaching consequences, and we welcome the joint efforts, including by the World Health Organization and UNICEF, aimed at supporting the Government of Iraq in its rollout of vaccines. On the issue of missing Kuwaiti and third-country nationals and missing Kuwaiti property, we take note of the pandemic’s impact on efforts to move forward in this area, yet we remain encouraged by the commitment of UNAMI, as well as the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Government of Iraq, to making progress and ultimately resolving this important matter.”
2021-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8910 (2021) · source
“We condemn the attempted assassination against the Prime Minister, as well as the ongoing threats against UNAMI and others, which risk eroding the political progress that has been made so far. We also express our concern over the continued attacks carried out by Da’esh, which undermine all ongoing efforts towards peace and security. We welcome that, amid the preparations for elections, the Government continued its efforts to achieve such national priorities as the strengthening of regional and international relations, an approach that is indispensable to successfully tackling challenges, including those that are common to the region.”
2021-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8910 (2021) · source
“We are hopeful that the newly formed and inclusive Government will prioritize the creation of a space for dialogue with the Iraqi people, so that their needs and aspirations can be met. Emphasis should be placed on the most vulnerable and marginalized, so that they may meaningfully participate in discussions about their future and the direction of their country. Regional and international stakeholders and partners of Iraq must also contribute to a constructive post-electoral environment. The right political will and momentum could open the door to effective governance and much-needed reforms. In that regard, we underscore the need for all actors within Iraq to contribute to an atmosphere of peace that facilitates a stable, secure and prosperous future.”
2021-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8910 (2021) · source
“In addition to UNAMI’s provision of technical electoral assistance and advice, and the provision of a strengthened, robust and visible United Nations team, in accordance with its mandate, UNAMI’s sustained efforts to build trust and keep voters informed about the electoral process, including through public outreach campaigns, are all indeed commendable. The slogan “Your country. Your future. Your vote” is one that we wholeheartedly support, as it advocated a people-centred approach to a process inherently inclusive of all voices, including, yes, women and minorities. The holding of elections was a much-welcomed step in the right direction; however, it was also the start of a long road to recovery, which must begin with the peaceful formation of a new Government.”
2021-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8910 (2021) · source
“Despite the myriad complex challenges that exist in Iraq, it is encouraging to witness the Iraqi people’s commitment to the national peace and security agenda and the democratic and inclusive framework within which this could be achieved. The milestone parliamentary elections that were held on 10 October, in advance of the constitutional deadline, exemplified the commitment of the Government and the Independent High Electoral Commission to the political, economic, social and democratic progress of Iraq. In this regard, we recognize the critical role played by the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) since well before the holding of elections.”
2021-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8910 (2021) · source
“Ms. Gonsalves: (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines): At the outset, we would like to express our appreciation to Special Representative of the Secretary-General Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert for her comprehensive remarks this morning, as well as her and her team’s continued support for the people of Iraq, particularly during the recent electoral period. We also welcome Ms. Amal Kabashi, whose work towards safeguarding women’s rights and strengthening gender equality must be not only commended, but also supported. In this vein, we thank Mexico, as President of the Security Council, for its commitment to including women civil society briefers in Council discussions and creating the space for this important exchange with Ms. Kabashi.”
2021-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8910 (2021) · source
“As the international community we must ensure that the parties’ obligations are upheld under international law and also build the capacity of local institutions to guarantee accountability. Before concluding, allow me to revisit the issue of the FSO SAFER oil tanker, which has been raised during every Security Council meeting on Yemen. It is imperative that the relevant parties prioritize a solution with a sense of urgency and that all stakeholders with influence encourage the parties to find a swift resolution to this issue. The catastrophic impact of an explosion or leak must be prevented while we still have time. In conclusion, we would like to reaffirm our support for the Special Envoy and for all partners working to end the war.”
2021-10-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8878 (2021) · source
“Between unpaid salaries, the depreciation of the currency, significant inflation and the curtailment of important economic sectors, many Yemenis lack the resources to survive on a day-to-day basis. External support is compulsory. The good-neighbourliness of countries in the region and the opening of ports for the entry of goods, including fuel, into Yemen are so critical to ease the humanitarian suffering. All parties in Yemen must act responsibility and fairly in the distribution of critical goods and fuel. As we emphasize the need for the resumption of the political process, we also stress that there can be no sustainable peace without accountability.”
2021-10-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8878 (2021) · source
“Until then, the dire humanitarian and economic situation will persist. A sustained humanitarian operation that can reach those most in need is critical to the everyday survival of people in Yemen. We welcome the high-level side event that was co-hosed by Sweden, Switzerland and the European Union last month, which gave the international community an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to the people of Yemen by providing additional funding for aid operations. In that regard, we welcome the pledges made and urge the early disbursement of the funds. The humanitarian situation is compounded by the state of the economy, which has been crippled by the conflict.”
2021-10-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8878 (2021) · source
“The recent car bomb attack at Aden airport is one of the many examples of the destruction that the conflict continues to wreak on the civilian population. In the face of these dire circumstances, however, there is opportunity for hope, due in part to the fact that we have a road map that facilitates an end to the war. We have repeated that there must be an immediate ceasefire that opens the doors to political dialogue and that, through various confidence-building measures, we can foster an environment conducive to that dialogue. We have recognized that the success of the dialogue necessitates a Yemeni-led, -owned and -focused process. The additional prerequisite is a genuine demonstration by the parties to the conflict of collective responsibility and political will to prioritize Yemen’s future and end the war.”
2021-10-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8878 (2021) · source
“We begin by welcoming the comprehensive remarks delivered by Special Envoy Hans Grundberg and Acting Assistant Secretary-General Ramesh Rajasingham. We also welcome Ms. Maysaa Abdulrahman Shujaa Al-Deen, whose research and assessment contributes to our comprehensive knowledge of the situation in Yemen, thereby buttressing efforts to address the complexities on the ground. As Saint Vincent and the Grenadines nears the end of its tenure on the Security Council, I must say that it is truly regrettable that hostilities in Yemen, as well as cross-border attacks on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, continue unabated and that the humanitarian situation is still one of the world’s worst. We deplore the continued fighting, the impact of which is felt deeply by Yemen’s most vulnerable people, including women, children and internally displaced persons.”
2021-10-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8878 (2021) · source
“Before concluding, we stress the need for concrete progress to be made on the issue of the FSO SAFER oil tanker. Its dilapidated condition increases the risk of a disaster, the occurrence of which has the potential to cause irreparable damage to the environment and the livelihoods of many in the Red Sea region. In that context, we recognize that a lack of trust can act as a barrier to compromise, and we encourage the parties to undertake confidence-building measures that can open the path to a pragmatic solution. We reaffirm our support to Special Envoy Grundberg and the people of Yemen and reiterate our commitment to work constructively towards a solution that ensures long-term peace, stability and prosperity in Yemen.”
2021-09-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8854 (2021) · source
“Any reference to the political process will be incomplete without recognizing the role of women, who make up a significant portion of the Yemeni population. Women are present and active on the ground in Yemen, including on the front lines, and were some of the first to call for a ceasefire in Yemen to respond to COVID-19 pandemic. Women in Yemen have demonstrated their resilience, strength and determination, and a peace process that marginalizes this group is destined for failure. Women must be included in all aspects of the peace process, not only when dialogue commences. We urge the Special Envoy to work with women’s groups and leaders in Yemen, and for the Security Council to continue inviting women briefers to enrich our meetings.”
2021-09-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8854 (2021) · source
“In that context, we recall the relevant provisions under international law to which the parties to the conflict are legally bound. We also call on the international community to sustain and increase its support for the humanitarian response plan. We hope that the humanitarian event to be organized by Sweden, Switzerland and the European Union this month will be seized as an opportunity for the international community to renew its commitment to the people of Yemen. However, we note that humanitarian aid is merely palliative. The only viable solution to the conflict is an inclusive Yemeni-led, Yemeni-owned and Yemeni-focused political solution that reflects the complexities on the ground and addresses the root causes of the conflict.”
2021-09-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8854 (2021) · source
“Hostilities and displacement threaten millions of people, and we are all acutely aware that fighting on many front lines across the country continues to destabilize an already fragile situation. The overall humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, in parallel with the economy, as many Yemenis lack the purchasing power needed to afford food and basic necessities. In that regard, we recognize the need for unhindered passage of humanitarian aid, particularly against the backdrop of a third wave of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic and an active rainy season that triggered, for the second time this year, the nationwide flood preparedness plan, as Yemen faces the climate crisis from a very vulnerable position.”
2021-09-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8854 (2021) · source
“We condemn these most recent attack, as well as indiscriminate air strikes and shelling of civilians, as well as objects critical to civilians, which have characterised the war in Yemen. Even before the dust settles, we ought to have an open and frank conversation about reconciliation between the parties, an indispensable component of which is accountability. Our role as a Council and as individual Council members is to do our utmost to facilitate the warring parties reaching a settlement and to act responsibly when providing support to one party or another. The impact of the protracted conflict is evident in the collapse of Yemeni institutions and the fragmentation of the social fabric. The brunt of that is borne primarily by those most vulnerable — women and children.”
2021-09-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8854 (2021) · source
“We thank our briefers for their insightful remarks and efforts to find a durable solution to the conflict in Yemen. The work being undertaken by Ms. Al-Qadhi, including through the Ma’rib Girls Foundation for Development and the Women Peacemakers initiative, is crucial to advance the safety and security of Yemen’s youth and is indispensable to the long-term prosperity of the country. We also extend congratulations to Special Envoy Hans Grundberg on his recent appointment to that position and welcome his presence with us this morning. We once again call for an immediate lasting ceasefire among the parties involved in the Yemeni conflict. The recent launch of attacks into Saudi Arabia from Houthis in Yemen only underscores the urgent necessity for all sides to truly commit to a ceasefire.”
2021-09-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8854 (2021) · source
“That is indeed a positive and important step to bridge the gaps and to ensure the full implementation of resolution 2118 (2013). It is our hope that preparations will be finalized soon. We reiterate the importance of pursuing consensus- based decisions to thwart further polarization and foster cooperation among States parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention. Political differences ought to be set aside in favour of a commitment to working together to realize our collective goal of a world free of chemical weapons. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines remains in support of the mandate of the OPCW, and we encourage all efforts aimed at strengthening its capacity to ensure that it always functions as an effective multilateral institution.”
2021-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8830 (2021) · source
“As such, the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) bears a great responsibility as the guardian of the Chemical Weapons Convention. We acknowledge the efforts to continue work on this file, despite the impediments created by the coronavirus disease pandemic. However, we remain concerned about the continued long-term lack of movement. Gaps, inconsistencies and discrepancies in the initial declaration remain unresolved and engagement is strained. Undoubtedly, there are many diverging views and trust deficits exist. It is therefore imperative that all parties prioritize dialogue and technical consultations to chart a practical and constructive way forward to make tangible progress. In that regard, we welcome the agreement between the OPCW and Syria to convene an in-person meeting to discuss relevant developments.”
2021-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8830 (2021) · source
“We join others in congratulating India on its assumption of the presidency of the Security Council. We wish the members of the Indian delegation the very best. They can count on our support. We also commend France for a well-organized and successful presidency last month. Chemical weapons do not discriminate between combatants and civilians, and their effects are horrifying. Their development and use remain a threat to international peace and security and constitute a grave violation of international law. Allegations of the use chemical weapons therefore ought to be given immediate attention, and investigations must be comprehensive, impartial, transparent and in keeping with international best practices.”
2021-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8830 (2021) · source
“At the same time, we fully appreciate that lack of consensus should not derail progress and that the legal requirements for the appointment of the new High Representative have been met. We hope that all parties can move past the differences surrounding the recent appointment of the newly selected High Representative and work together. In conclusion, we reaffirm our full support for the stability, political independence and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the role of the Office of the High Representative. It is crucial for all parties to work together to fully implement the Peace Agreement, as this represents the path towards stability in the region.”
2021-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8810 (2021) · source
“We have seen the value of our united and coordinated efforts over the past 25 years. This work is needed now more than ever, as the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina are trying to recover from the massive socioeconomic disruption caused by the coronavirus disease pandemic. In this regard, my delegation encourages the members of the Peace Implementation Council to work in a spirit of mutual collaboration and coordination and engage in constructive dialogue with all parties. Consensus in decision-making is desirable and should be our aim. Given the critical role the Security Council plays in the stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina, it would have been prudent to consult the Council on this most recent matter.”
2021-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8810 (2021) · source
“We take note of the recent decision of the Peace Implementation Council Steering Board to appoint Mr. Christian Schmidt as the new High Representative. We also take note of the difficulties the Office of the High Representative has had in fulfilling its mandate, and we hope that a climate can be created for all parties to work together and overcome these problems. We recognize and cannot understate the significant role that the members of the Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council have played and will continue to play in contributing to ensuring international support for the Dayton Peace Agreement. The value of the work of the Security Council to the stability and long-term security of the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina also cannot be overstated.”
2021-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8810 (2021) · source
“Saint Vincent and the Grenadines thanks The Officer-in-Charge of the Europe and Central Asia Division of the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Mr. Hervé Lecoq, for his briefing. We also recognize the presence of Ms. Turković, Deputy Chairperson of the Council of Ministers and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We begin by expressing our appreciation to the outgoing High Representative, Mr. Valentin Inzko, for his work and contribution to the security and stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as for promoting the political process and the full implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement. The Agreement remains a fundamental pillar to peace and stability, including through the creation of an environment conducive to the voluntary return and integration of refugees into communities.”
2021-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8810 (2021) · source
“Saint Vincent and the Grenadines commends the unstinting effort of the United Nations Mission in the Republic of South Sudan, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, the African Union, the Community of Sant’Egidio in Rome and the Government of South Africa, in particular Deputy President David Mabuza, South Africa’s Special Envoy to South Sudan, for their constructive role in helping South Sudan to reach this promising moment. In closing, we reiterate our unwavering solidarity with the people of South Sudan and remain enthusiastic about the country’s rebuilding process. Unity is pivotal for success. We call on the international community to continue to support South Sudan during this new phase of its history.”
2020-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8741 (2020) · source
“Though difficult to address, they are by no means insurmountable. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines therefore urges the South Sudanese leaders and all stakeholders within the State to seize this moment and continue to work together to ensure peace, security and development for the future of the country and all its children and to refrain from taking any adverse action that may undermine the progress already made. A return to conflict and widespread violence would not only compound the suffering on another generation of South Sudanese but also could cause irreparable damage, which would have dangerous ramifications for neighbouring countries and the broader continent.”
2020-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8741 (2020) · source
“In this respect, the full implementation of the Revitalized Agreement, including the permanent cessation of hostilities, the commencement of the National Dialogue Conference, the establishment of a permanent Constitution and the appropriate management of the Transitional Government within the next 36 months geared towards general elections, remain critical. My delegation is mindful that the promise of lasting peace faces daunting challenges, including the lingering impediments to security arrangements and transitional justice and the issues of poverty, corruption, the adverse effects of climate change, conflict-related sexual violence, the recruitment of children in armed conflict and a dire humanitarian situation. Such challenges run the risk of thwarting sustainable development for the people of South Sudan.”
2020-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8741 (2020) · source
“We also commend the effort to meet the 35 per cent quota for women in the formal implementation and monitoring mechanisms of the Revitalized Agreement, in particular the Ceasefire Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism and the reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission. As South Sudan ushers in a new dawn in nation-building, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines encourages all its leaders to assume their collective responsibilities and to ensure that the hard-won gains to form a transitional Government will be maintained and enhanced.”
2020-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8741 (2020) · source
“Notwithstanding these difficulties, we believe that South Sudan is on a productive course to ensure a prosperous future. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines applauds the decision by the South Sudanese parties to form the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity in South Sudan, in keeping with the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan. The spirit of compromise exhibited by the parties to put aside their differences for the benefit of the people is positive and reaffirms the significance of dialogue in resolving conflict.”
2020-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8741 (2020) · source
“Saint Vincent and the Grenadines thanks Special Representative of the Secretary-General Shearer for his briefing and for his efforts aimed at assisting in making progress in the peace process. We also thank Ms. Betty Sunday for her briefing. We acknowledge the presence of the Permanent Representative of South Sudan in the Chamber today. South Sudan is on a path towards a significant milestone in its nine-year history, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines stands with the people of South Sudan as they embark on this new chapter of their journey. We are conscious that the formation of a transitional Government will not resolve all of South Sudan’s challenges overnight, nor can it serve as a panacea for the devastation wrought on the country over several years.”
2020-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8741 (2020) · source
“We end by reaffirming our support to UNAMI and the Government of Iraq as they work towards achieving a lasting and positive peace.”
2020-03-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8739 (2020) · source
“Too many Iraqis have suffered at the hands of the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). We remain deeply concerned that ISIL’s remaining elements continue to carry out attacks. The complete eradication of those spoilers is critical in safeguarding reconciliation and redevelopment in Iraq. We wish to reiterate that issues related to conflict and development must be addressed concurrently. There is a need to combat poverty, unemployment and inequality, and for the urgent economic and social reconstruction of Iraq. Sustainable reconciliation and reconstruction are achievable only when accompanied by efforts to safeguard human security. The international community remains duty-bound to provide the Republic of Iraq with all of the support necessary to materialize its future possibilities across the peace, security and development nexus.”
2020-03-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8739 (2020) · source
“In our efforts to assist the Government of Iraq, we recall relevant international principles, namely, those of sovereignty, non-intervention and non-interference. Those are the pillars upon which we can peacefully coexist. Iraq, as a sovereign State, has full authority to oversee its domestic affairs in accordance with international law, free from any external interference. That right, deeply embedded in our rules-based system, must not be abrogated in practice. It must be respected by all States, including those that operate in Iraq, and, therefore, within the parameters set out by the Government. In that regard, the Government of Iraq’s commitment and efforts to work constructively with UNAMI are commendable. It is a mutually reinforcing and beneficial relation that should be encouraged.”
2020-03-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8739 (2020) · source
“Saint Vincent and the Grenadines commends the constructive cooperation between UNAMI and the Government of Iraq regarding missing Kuwaiti persons and third-country nationals. We note the success of those efforts, as catalogued in the most recent report (S/2020/133). We encourage the Government to continue building on the progress made with regard to the return of missing Kuwaiti property, including the search for Kuwaiti books and national archives. We remain concerned about the ongoing protests and the allegations of abuses. While the establishment of a committee to investigate reprisals against protesters is a positive move, we urge greater progress in holding individuals and groups accountable. In addition, we encourage steps towards the formation of a Government.”
2020-03-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8739 (2020) · source
“We welcome UNAMI’s engagement with the Women Advisory Group for Politics and National Reconciliation in Iraq to solicit input on the Government’s ongoing constitutional review. Meaningful participation by women in political processes and economic and social planning is essential for achieving peace that extends beyond silencing the guns. On that note, it would be remiss of me not to mention the appointment of a woman as Chief Executive Officer of the Independent High Electoral Commission as indicative of the kind of transformation required to secure a more just organization of Iraqi society and polity. Similarly, we recognize as progressive UNAMI’s engagement with young civil activists. We appreciate that UNAMI has created a platform for dialogue between local youth representatives and senior local political figures.”
2020-03-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8739 (2020) · source
“Saint Vincent and the Grenadines congratulates you, Mr. President, on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of March. We also recognize the presence of the representative of Iraq in the Chamber. We thank Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert for her insightful briefing. Since taking up our seat on the Council, this is the first time that we can officially extend our gratitude to the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) for its indispensable work. We therefore welcome this opportunity and reaffirm our support to her and her team. UNAMI’s mandate provides a platform to support the Government of Iraq in tremendous ways, including in the advancement of political dialogue.”
2020-03-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8739 (2020) · source
“We look forward to the 2020 Review Conference, and it is our hope that it will yield success. Indeed, nothing said in the Chamber today should operate so as to prejudge or pre-empt the outcome of the 2020 Review Conference. The most inclusive and representative organ of the United Nations — that is, the General Assembly — has the mandate to deal with that issue in the upcoming review. In closing, we highlight that the total elimination of nuclear weapons should remain a top priority on the agenda of the international community. We must return to a common vision and path leading to the total elimination of nuclear weapons. Let us work together to protect the future of humankind.”
2020-02-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8733 (2020) · source
“We emphasize the need for multilateral cooperation in effectively addressing the threat of nuclear weapons. We reaffirm the continued need for nuclear-weapon States to engage in in-depth and open dialogue on their respective nuclear doctrines and policies. Doing so increases mutual trust and confidence among all relevant parties. We maintain our respect for the sovereignty of all States, and in our pursuit of non-proliferation policies we reaffirm that they should not undermine the rights of States to peacefully use nuclear technologies. We continue to support the oversight that the International Atomic Energy Agency provides in that regard. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is committed to working with the international community to ensure that the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons is effectively implemented.”
2020-02-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8733 (2020) · source
“We are party to the 1967 Treaty for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America — the Treaty of Tlatelolco — which established our region as the first nuclear-weapon-free zone in a densely populated area. Furthermore, we proudly became the 24th State party to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in July 2019. We are committed to ensuring that our region remains a zone of peace, as declared by the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States in 2014. While the global number of nuclear weapons has declined, complete disarmament has not yet been achieved and geopolitical tensions are made worse by the existence of those weapons. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons is a significant step in the total elimination of that threat. It remains the cornerstone of the global non-proliferation regime.”
2020-02-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8733 (2020) · source
“I would like to thank High Representative Nakamitsu and Ambassador Zlauvinen for their informative briefings. We would also like to welcome to the Chamber the Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany, His Excellency Mr. Heiko Maas. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines remains committed to the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and to the full and effective implementation of the three pillars on which it stands. We urge those countries that have not yet become parties to the Treaty to do so in our collective pursuit of achieving a world free from nuclear weapons. Nuclear weapons have the capacity to decimate us and set us back decades in the achievement of our development goals. To that end, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has taken several positive steps to grapple with that existential threat.”
2020-02-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8733 (2020) · source
“In the end, the absence of virtue, a tendency to ignobility, irresponsibility and rank hypocrisy are clear and present dangers that attend both the powerful and the powerless, although not in equal measure. The metaphoric cards are stacked in favour of the powerful; accordingly, from those to whom much is given, much more is rightly expected. On behalf of the proverbial least of those among us, let us be steadfast in our commitment to the core principles and values of our United Nations and be a conscience in this unruly and chaotic world of much promise. Hopefully, a renewed grace in our United Nations may take us to a better, more peaceful, secure and prosperous place for humankind’s abode.”
2020-01-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8699 (2020) · source
“Similarly, we must acknowledge and act upon the security consequences of climate change, the misuse and abuse of the Earth’s resources, including the seabed, and the weaponizing of outer space. As I conclude, I want to say a few simple, straightforward things. The arrogance of power, however derived, too often imbues human beings and nation States with a sense that restraints on them are impermissible. This corrupting power is ignoble and slowly, even imperceptibly, deprives the powerful of much of the virtue that they possess. Powerlessness, too, can be, and often is, debilitating. Powerlessness invites cowardice and the opportunism of the meek; it is also a strong stimulus for solidarity.”
2020-01-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8699 (2020) · source