YouSaid · the spoken record

Jerry Matjila

lines on the record: 294
first: 2020-03-31
most recent: 2020-12-22
sittings or episodes: 37
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

“In that connection, we take note of the communiqué agreed to during the Conference on the Establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and Other Weapons of Mass Destruction, held from 18 to 22 November 2019. In conclusion, in the interest of the broader security of the region, South Africa will remain resolute in supporting efforts to resolve tensions between all stakeholders in the Gulf region and will always promote dialogue over antagonism in order to safeguard gains already made in support of the maintenance of broader international peace and security.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“South Africa wishes to remind the Council that nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation are mutually reinforcing processes, and that lack of progress on nuclear disarmament will inadvertently affect the gains made on nuclear non-proliferation. We further wish to underline the importance of respecting the inalienable right of States parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. South Africa is a staunch supporter of nuclear-weapon free zones as major contributors to nuclear non-proliferation and critical building blocks towards the goal of a world without nuclear weapons. In that regard, my delegation wishes to highlight the urgent need for the establishment of a Middle East free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“South Africa calls on the EU partners to accelerate the implementation of the Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges mechanism so as to ensure that Iran receives the economic benefits outlined in the JCPOA, particularly as humankind continues to be confronted with the persistent coronavirus disease pandemic, which, S/2020/1324 according to the World Health Organization, has affected more than 76 million people to date in confirmed cases and has resulted in more than 1.6 million deaths. While we commend the JCPOA as an essential instrument of nuclear non-proliferation, we reiterate that the total elimination of nuclear weapons is the only guarantee that they will never be used again by anyone under any circumstances.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“South Africa remains regretful of the decision by the United States to withdraw from the JCPOA, and we share the disappointment expressed by the Secretary- General on the matter in his reports with regard to the decision by the United States not to renew waivers for nuclear non-proliferation projects in the framework of the JCPOA. In our view, the decision by the United States inadvertently affects the ability of Iran to fully implement the provisions of the JCPOA and resolution 2231 (2015). It is important to recall that the lifting of sanctions, especially on certain nuclear- related materials, was part of the JCPOA. It is important that the United States reconsider its position regarding its withdrawal from the JCPOA.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“We therefore welcome the 21 December joint ministerial statement on the JCPOA. The JCPOA remains the only legitimate international agreement aimed at addressing the Iran nuclear issue, and also contributes to the realization of an effective global non-proliferation regime. My delegation therefore fully supports the Secretary-General’s view that such diplomatic efforts must be preserved and built upon. South Africa notes the concerns raised in the Secretary-General’s report regarding the steps undertaken by Iran to gradually and partially cease the implementation of some of its commitments under the JCPOA. South Africa urges Iran to fully implement its obligations under the JCPOA in order to preserve its prospect for success and to reassure the international community of the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“The JCPOA remains an excellent example of collective action to consolidate peace through cooperation and collaboration on the basis of a binding agreement. We are also of the view that the JCPOA has contributed significantly to the reduction of tensions over Iran’s nuclear programme and remains vital in promoting peace, stability and the normalization of relations. As a matter of principle and deeply rooted in its foreign policy, South Africa supports multilateral diplomacy, adherence to international law and the peaceful resolution of conflict. In that regard, we call on all parties to the JCPOA and all Security Council members to uphold and implement resolution 2231 (2015), which is essential for the Council’s fulfilment of its mandate to maintain international peace and security.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“Allow me first to express my thanks to today’s briefers, Under-Secretary- General DiCarlo for her briefing on the Secretary-General’s report (S/2020/1177); Ambassador Philippe Kridelka, as the Facilitator for the implementation of resolution 2231 (2015); and Ambassador Olof Skoog, Head of the Delegation of the European Union (EU), on behalf of the Joint Commission, for their insightful presentations. We join others in welcoming the tenth report (S/2020/1177) of the Secretary- General on the implementation of resolution 2231 (2015). South Africa continues to welcome the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) as one of most important diplomatic achievements in the area of nuclear non-proliferation since the signing of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“As I conclude my statement at this, South Africa’s last meeting on the question of Palestine, let me reiterate South Africa’s long-standing and dedicated support for Palestine’s right to fundamental freedoms, human rights and self-determination. South Africa will continue to make every effort to support the Palestinian people and their just cause. That includes advocating for political dialogue between the parties on an equal footing, based on internationally agreed parameters that take into account the needs and aspirations of the Palestinian people. No peace plan or initiative can have any merit or succeed if all parties to the conflict are not included in such political processes as equal partners from the very beginning. Conflicts can be resolved only by treating each party as part of the future solution, not as a potential adversary.”
2020-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1275 (2020) · source
“We call on Israel to end its inhumane treatment of the citizens of Gaza and honour its obligations under the Fourth Geneva Convention as an occupying Power. In that regard, we commend the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), its leadership and personnel for their dedication and unfailing support for the Palestinian people in truly challenging circumstances. The Agency’s financial situation is truly concerning, and we appeal to the international community to increase its financial support for UNRWA, which is a lifeline of support for millions of people.”
2020-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1275 (2020) · source
“Palestinians continue to live under occupation and are denied their most basic civil and human rights. Those bilateral agreements do not change international law; they do not change Security Council resolutions. While Israel’s annexation plans may have been suspended, de facto annexation continues with ongoing and increased settlement activity, as we have previously noted. The situation in Gaza is deeply alarming. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and the associated restrictions have further impacted the deteriorating humanitarian situation. The health-care sector is unable to cope with the increased demand, and patients with life-threatening non-COVID-19 cases are being denied permits to travel for critical medical care.”
2020-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1275 (2020) · source
“Indeed, 157 children are currently being held in Israeli custody, while two others are being held in administrative detention without charge or trial. South Africa reiterates its call for the Council to make the long-overdue field visit to the occupied Palestinian territory by those members of the Council willing to do so. That will provide an opportunity for them to witness for themselves the conditions, hardships and challenges faced by the Palestinian people on a daily basis. In recent months, we have seen bilateral agreements that have been hailed as breakthroughs for peace in the Middle East. However, those transactional agreements, which did not include Palestine, a significant stakeholder in Middle East peace, have not yielded tangible results for those most affected by the illegal occupation.”
2020-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1275 (2020) · source
“They should be afforded special protection from any form of violence”. This must stop. Bullets are not a reasonable or proportional response to rocks. Moreover, South Africa fully supports the call by Mr. Michael Lynk, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, and Ms. Agnès Callamard, Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, for an impartial and independent investigation into the killing of Ali Ayman Abu Aliya, a 15-year-old boy, by the Israel Defense Forces, where there was no threat of death or serious injury to the Israeli security forces. Equally concerning is the number of children held in detention.”
2020-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1275 (2020) · source
“Each and every one of those housing units is illegal under international law and a broken promise to the Palestinian people. In that regard, South Africa calls for the full implementation of resolution 2334 (2016). In addition, we call on the Council to address and take action against those who have continuously and overtly violated this and previous Security Council resolutions. It is the right, fair and just thing to do. The staggering number of civilian casualties in the occupied Palestinian territory as reported by the Secretary-General is truly appalling. In 2020 alone, six Palestinian children have been killed and 1,048 injured by the Israeli security forces. As stated in paragraph 87 of the Secretary-General’s report, “children should not be the target of violence or put in harm’s way.”
2020-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1275 (2020) · source
“Such actions serve only to incite hatred and violence, as evidenced in the Secretary- General’s most recent report. In two days’ time, on 23 December, it will be the four-year anniversary of the almost unanimous adoption of resolution 2334 (2016). However, during that time illegal settlements, seizures and demolitions of Palestinian property and structures have continued unabated. In the four years since the adoption of resolution 2334 (2016), more than 46,000 housing units have been announced, approved or constructed. All of those units are without legal validity, constitute a flagrant violation of international law and are a major obstacle to the two-State solution and a just, lasting and comprehensive peace. Yet no action has been taken to address those grave violations.”
2020-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1275 (2020) · source
“They have seen their land, heritage and birthright seized, demolished and resettled by strangers, house by house, village by village, olive grove by olive grove, until the prospect of a peaceful, independent and contiguous Palestine is now in serious jeopardy. The ultimate goal for all of us should be the establishment of a sovereign, independent, contiguous Palestinian State existing side by side with a safe and secure State of Israel, based on the 1967 borders and with East Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Palestine, as has been stated by the Secretary-General, his Special Coordinator and many of us on the Council. South Africa reiterates that the illegal occupation of Palestinian land and the seizure and demolition of the Palestinians’ land and structures are illegal.”
2020-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1275 (2020) · source
“Let me begin by thanking Mr. Mladenov for his sobering briefing on the situation in the occupied Palestinian territory and his concerted efforts to resolve the long-standing question of Palestine. I would also like to thank the Secretary-General for his written report on the implementation of resolution 2334 (2016) (S/2020/1234). Since the question of Palestine was first discussed in the Security Council, in 1948, the Council has adopted more than 100 resolutions on the issue, surely more than on any other agenda item on the Council’s agenda. However, it is the agenda item that has also seen the least amount of progress. Since 1948, the Palestinian people have seen no legitimate progress in the establishment of a sovereign State of Palestine.”
2020-12-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1275 (2020) · source
“The Mission’s work to facilitate dialogue with various stakeholders, including civil society groups, and its efforts to support conflict resolution and peacebuilding remain critical in uniting all Afghans towards a peaceful and sustainable resolution of the Afghan conflict. I thank the Permanent Representative of Indonesia and his team for their tireless efforts to contribute to creating a conducive environment for peace in Afghanistan, and I convey our best wishes to the incoming Chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1988 (2011). I also thank Ms. Zadran for her role in Afghanistan and reassure her that South Africa has faith in the youth and believes in their ability to contribute to peaceful negotiations and building a fair, equitable and inclusive society.”
2020-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1274 (2020) · source
“Mindful of the magnitude and complexity of the necessary measures, South Africa commends the United Nations and its humanitarian partners for their dedicated efforts to attend to all who require assistance. In conclusion, and noting that this will be South Africa’s last meeting on the situation in Afghanistan as an elected Council member, let me take this opportunity to extend my appreciation and gratitude to Special Representative Lyons and the personnel of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan for their dedication and commitment to the execution of its mandate.”
2020-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1274 (2020) · source
“In addition, all those responsible for grave violations in Afghanistan — particularly against children, women and the most vulnerable — should be brought to justice and held accountable, including through timely, systematic, impartial and independent investigations and, as appropriate, prosecution and conviction. On the humanitarian situation, a day or two ago we were informed of the worsening humanitarian situation in Afghanistan by the Acting Assistant-Secretary- General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator. It goes without saying that the coronavirus disease pandemic, climate change and the protracted conflict, which has lasted over a decade, have all contributed to this dire situation.”
2020-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1274 (2020) · source
“It is important, therefore, that all parties cease their hostilities. The men, women and children of Afghanistan deserve peace and a life of fulfilment. Sustainable peace requires active dialogue and negotiation, which, in turn, require a peaceful environment in order to thrive. For Afghan peace talks to be effective, all parties must cease their violence and hostilities in order to create an environment conducive to meaningful progress. In that regard, South Africa calls on all parties to the conflict to comply with their obligations under international human rights law and international humanitarian law.”
2020-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1274 (2020) · source
“More important, South Africa urges that the peace process be Afghan-led and -owned and include all Afghans. The progress and gains made in the rights of women and girls needs to be preserved. As Ms. Zadran demonstrated to us today, the women and youth of Afghanistan have a meaningful role to play and a real and existential stake in the future of Afghanistan — both in terms of its peace process and in mapping its reconstruction and development trajectory. On the security situation, regretfully, the soaring rates of violence and related high civilian casualties jeopardize Afghanistan’s prospects for peace and are of great concern to South Africa. The Secretary-General has stated that “the armed conflict in Afghanistan remains the deadliest conflict in the world for children”.”
2020-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1274 (2020) · source
“I thank Special Representative Deborah Lyons, Ms. Shkula Zadran and my colleague Ambassador Djani of Indonesia for their briefings. I would also like in particular to welcome and thank Ms. Shkula Zadran, Afghan Youth Representative to the United Nations, for her presentation. I will focus my remarks on the following three areas: the peace situation, the security situation and the humanitarian situation. With regard to the peace process, let me begin by welcoming the launch of the Afghan peace negotiations in September and the ongoing discussions. The agreement reached by the parties on rules of procedures for the negotiations is a welcome and important step in the right direction. South Africa urges all the parties to continue to build on that momentum and engage constructively towards a just, durable and inclusive peace.”
2020-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1274 (2020) · source
“I would also like to thank the Governments of Ethiopia and the Sudan for facilitating the Security Council’s visits to Addis Ababa and Juba, South Sudan, in 2019. I also thank the three African States members of the Security Council for 2019, namely, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire and Equatorial Guinea, and the configuration for 2020 comprising the three African States members of the Council namely, South Africa, the Niger and Tunisia, as well as Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, which supported and provided unwavering solidarity on African issues. I would like to also thank the South Africa team led by Ambassador Xolisa Mfundiso Mabhongo, the Deputy Permanent Representative, Mr. Marthinus Van Schalkwyk, the Political Coordinator, and Ms. Kgaugelo Thermina Mogashoa, Deputy Political Coordinator.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1258 (2020) · source
“I would like to thank all delegations for their support and active engagement in the work and activities of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Conflict Prevention and Resolution in Africa during my tenure as Chair. It is my hope that our successor will S/2020/1258 build on this solid work and on the good cooperation between the Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Ambassador Fatima Mohammed and her team at the Permanent Observer Mission of the African Union to the United Nations, Ms. Bintou Keita, the Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, and her team, Ms. Bience Gawanas, and her successor, Ms Cristina Duarte, at the Office of the Special Advisor for Africa. I also thank the United Nations Secretariat for its support.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1258 (2020) · source
“In conclusion, the mandate of the Ad Hoc Working Group is very specific, namely, to play a critical role in assisting and advising the Security Council on approaches to preventing and resolving conflict in Africa. Additionally, the Ad Hoc Working Group provides a platform for engaging and discussing difficult issues. Further, it provides an opportunity for the Council to engage in open, transparent and non-confrontational consideration of important peace and security matters. During its tenure as the Chair of the Ad Hoc Working Group, South Africa has sought to ensure that when the elected and permanent members of the Security Council engage in their collective task, they propose unique and innovative approaches towards preventing and resolving conflicts in Africa.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1258 (2020) · source
“At the fifth joint informal seminar, held on 29 September 2020, members of the two Councils exchanged views on strengthening cooperation between the United Nations as it marks its seventy-fifth anniversary and the African Union marks its own fifty-seventh anniversary. Members of the two Councils also reflected on the salient topic of silencing the guns, in particular the ways to create conditions conducive to Africa’s development. On the occasion of the fourteenth joint consultative meeting, which was held on 30 September 2020, members of the Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council reflected on two topics, namely, the situation in Somalia and the situation in Mali and the Sahel region. At the conclusion of this meeting, the two Councils adopted a communiqué to mark the occasion.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1258 (2020) · source
“However, the Ad Hoc Working Group’s activities were not spared the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the cancellation of a number of these plans. Nevertheless, the Ad Hoc Working Group did convene one important meeting, albeit virtually, to prepare for the fourteenth annual joint consultative meeting between the Security Council and the African Union Peace and Security Council. Subsequently, members of the Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council held their fourteenth annual joint consultative meeting on 29 and 30 September 2020 on a virtual platform. In accordance with previous practice, the members of the Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council discussed matters of peace and security in Africa.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1258 (2020) · source
“This joint meeting was held in the context of the third workshop, which focused on the issues of silencing the guns in Africa by 2020, conflict prevention and mediation, peacebuilding and sustaining peace, counter-terrorism, climate change and support for AU peace operations. These exchanges between the AU Peace and Security Council Committee of Experts and the experts from the Security Council ensure that we share and familiarize the AU experts with the working methods of the Security Council, which is critical to enhancing cooperation and partnership between the two Councils in the area of peace and security. With regard to the activities of the Ad Hoc Working Group in 2020, a number of the meetings were planned to consider important themes in line with its mandate.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1258 (2020) · source
“In accordance with the usual practice, the two Councils decided to hold two meetings in Addis Ababa, with the first day, 23 October 2019, set aside for the fourth informal seminar, wherein two topics were discussed: first, silencing the guns in Africa and, secondly, modalities for conducting missions on the continent. The S/2020/1258 S/2020/1258 second day, 24 October 2019, was set aside for the thirteenth annual joint consultative meeting, which focused on the situation in Libya, the situation in South Sudan, and the implementation of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic. Finally, the Ad Hoc Working Group also held important joint working sessions between the AU Peace and Security Council Committee of Experts and the Security Council’s own experts on 2 and 4 October 2019.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1258 (2020) · source
“Local ownership has also emerged as part of the key contemporary reality for successful and effective SSR. The Ad Hoc Working Group convened a third meeting on 9 August 2019 to consider preparations for the thirteenth annual joint consultative meeting between the Security Council and the African Union Peace and Security Council. The importance of this meeting was underlined by the imperative of members of the Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council to exchange ideas on common issues affecting the African continent, including developing joint recommendations and a shared approach to conflict prevention and resolution in order to address in particular the long-standing conflicts on the African continent.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1258 (2020) · source
“The second meeting of the Ad Hoc Working Group took place on 21 June 2019 and focused on the topic of security sector reform (SSR), in particular the role of local participation in and ownership of reform efforts. The rationale for focusing on this topic was predicated on the understanding that the United Nations and the African Union (AU) can draw on their comparative advantages to ensure they play a key role in supporting more effective conflict analysis in relation to security sector reform. The concept of inclusivity in SSR is essential; so too is overcoming the trust deficit between security forces and local communities. It is therefore important to develop dialogue mechanisms for rapprochement between the population and security institutions, making sure the former have input into the design and implementation of the SSR process.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1258 (2020) · source
“The rationale for focusing on this theme was that many of the conflicts in Africa are fuelled by the proliferation of illicit trade of natural resources, with enormous implications for regional stability and arguably for international peace and security. The direct connection between the illicit exploitation of Africa’s natural resources and the trade therein has been covered in many studies, including studies by the United Nations. It is also recognized as one of the major root causes and drivers of most of the intractable conflicts on the African continent. Both briefers and participants, including representatives from the Member States, academia, the United Nations system and civil society, provided important policy recommendations and relevant proposals.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1258 (2020) · source
“The Ad Hoc Working Group on Conflict Prevention and Resolution in Africa is an important subsidiary body of the United Nations Security Council. As Chair, I am briefing the Council on the work of the Ad Hoc Working Group, in particular the activities it undertook in 2019 and 2020. The latter period was shortened owing to the negative impacts of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. With regard to the activities of the Ad Hoc Working Group in 2019, its first substantive meeting took place on 29 May 2019 and focused on the issue of root causes of conflict in Africa, in particular the illicit exploitation and trade of natural resources as a key driver of conflict, what options exist for conflict prevention, as well as conflict management and resolution.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1258 (2020) · source
“We encourage the Government of Syria to cooperate with the OPCW in resolving all outstanding issues in order for the international community to have confidence in the peaceful nature of Syria’s chemical activities. We welcome the progress made by the Declaration Assessment Team in closing three outstanding issues related to Syria’s initial declaration during its recent visit to Syria. South Africa looks forward to additional progress being made in addressing the remaining outstanding issues. South Africa reiterates that the only sustainable solution to the Syrian question remains the achievement of a political solution through an inclusive Syrian-led dialogue aimed at achieving a political transition that is reflective of the will of the Syrian people, with guaranteed protection for all groups in Syrian society.”
2020-12-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1202 (2020) · source
“In order to ensure that States parties adhere to their obligations, it is imperative that they have full faith and confidence in the work and processes of the OPCW, without external interference or manipulation of its work. The States parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention should therefore unite in preserving the international norm against chemical weapons and the provisions of the Convention, along with its consistent and non-discriminatory implementation. South Africa will continue to work for the depoliticization of the relevant management and decision-making structures established under the Chemical Weapons Convention, and also towards ensuring that States parties are held accountable for any violations of their obligations, based on credible, impartial and incontrovertible evidence.”
2020-12-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1202 (2020) · source
“The alleged use of chemical weapons by a State party to the Convention is a very serious matter that would constitute a material breach of obligations under the Convention. South Africa strongly supports multilateralism and the international rule of law, which includes the non-discriminatory and consistent application of the provisions of relevant multilateral instruments and the preservation of international norms against weapons of mass destruction, including chemical weapons. The OPCW is the only technically competent international authority in the field of chemical weapons. We therefore appreciate the work that Director-General Arias and the OPCW continue to undertake in that regard.”
2020-12-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1202 (2020) · source
“I thank Mrs. Izumi Nakamitsu, High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, and Mr. Fernando Arias, Director-General of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), for their briefings. Let me begin by reiterating South Africa’s position against the use of chemical weapons under any circumstances. No cause can ever justify the use of any weapon of mass destruction. South Africa remains committed to its international obligations as a State party to the Chemical Weapons Convention and a member of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. The use of chemical weapons undermines those obligations as well as the international norms against the production, use and stockpiling of such weapons, as established under the Chemical Weapons Convention.”
2020-12-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1202 (2020) · source
“I would like to take this opportunity to welcome the combined briefings on the political and humanitarian situations in Syria. Discussing these two important aspects of the Syrian conflict together provides a comprehensive view of the situation on the ground in Syria and offers Council members an opportunity to be briefed on and discuss holistic options to make progress towards a peaceful, stable and prosperous Syria.”
2020-11-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1147 (2020) · source
“Many Council members have previously stated that it is Syrian civilians who are bearing the heaviest impact of the humanitarian situation. Surely, this should not be worsened by the additional weight of unilateral economic measures. An important aspect in making progress on the political process is the need for confidence-building measures, including the release of civilians, particularly women, children, the elderly and those with disabilities, from detention. These steps can assist in building trust and encourage the compromises that are necessary in any negotiation process. As we have said many times before, the situation in Syria can be resolved only through dialogue and negotiations and the full implementation of resolution 2254 (2015).”
2020-11-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1147 (2020) · source
“That includes using all available methods of aid delivery, including cross-border and cross-line assistance. We call on the Government of Syria to continue to strengthen its cooperation with the United Nations and its partners towards the improvement and enhancement of cross-line humanitarian deliveries, particularly in areas where cross-border assistance is limited. Without this crucial assistance, the Syrian people will continue to face growing food insecurity and the long-term effects of malnutrition, particularly with the harsh conditions of winter setting in. South Africa once again requests the Secretary-General and the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs to include in their reports to the Council the effects and impact of both direct and indirect unilateral sanctions on the humanitarian situation in Syria.”
2020-11-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1147 (2020) · source
“The severe economic difficulties, compounded by the continuing hostilities, the increasing spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic and the onset of harsh winter conditions, have created a unique set of circumstances that have contributed to the humanitarian situation in Syria. It is of great concern that the number of positive COVID-19 cases have more than doubled in the last month. South Africa reiterates its position that all those who require humanitarian assistance should be provided with it, no matter who or where they are. And, as we have heard here today and in previous briefings, millions of Syrians are in need. In this regard, the safe, unimpeded and impartial delivery of humanitarian aid and support, in line with international humanitarian law, is more important than ever.”
2020-11-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1147 (2020) · source
“South Africa urges the parties to fully adhere to the Idlib ceasefire agreement and to refrain from any actions that may escalate tensions even further. In this regard, South Africa fully supports Special Envoy Pedersen’s call for a complete and immediate ceasefire nationwide, in line with the Secretary-General’s call for a global ceasefire in the face on the ongoing global pandemic. In this regard, we appreciate the cooperation between Russia and Turkey in ensuring relative calm in the north-east. The third, and last element, that I would like address is the humanitarian situation in Syria.”
2020-11-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1147 (2020) · source
“Let me start by expressing my deep concern at the continuing violence, which has seen an increase in ceasefire violations and hostilities in the north-west of Syria. This has led to the death and injury of a number of civilians, including humanitarian workers. Reports of the deaths of eight civilians, including two aid workers, on 4 November in southern Idlib due to a number of airstrikes are truly alarming. I would like to take this opportunity to commend the dedication and strength of all humanitarian workers, who continue to deliver essential services in the face of these challenges. The use of improvised explosive devices, landmines and unexploded ordinance, in addition to the increasing reports of airstrikes and shelling, all contribute to the growing number of civilian deaths and injuries. When will enough be enough?”
2020-11-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1147 (2020) · source
“The progress made in agreeing on an agenda of national principles during the fourth round of talks, starting on 30 November, and on constitutional issues in the fifth round of negotiations is commended. We hope that this spirit of cooperation continues during these important discussions. South Africa calls on the parties to build on this momentum and engage in a constructive manner to further the political process. Real and tangible progress in the Constitutional Committee, as well as with regard to a cessation in hostilities, requires the withdrawal of all external interference, including in terms of support provided to armed groups. The sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Syria must be respected. The second element that I would like to address is the security situation in Syria.”
2020-11-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1147 (2020) · source
“I thank Deputy Special Envoy Khawla Matar and Acting Assistant Secretary- General and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator Ramesh Rajasingham for their briefings on the political and humanitarian situations in Syria. South Africa would also like to welcome our colleagues the Permanent Representatives of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Syrian Arab Republic and Turkey to today’s meeting. I will be addressing three elements in my statement today, namely, the political, security and humanitarian in Syria. First, on the political situation, South Africa welcomes the recent package of agreements agreed to by the Co-Chairs of the Constitutional Committee on the agenda and dates for upcoming meetings.”
2020-11-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1147 (2020) · source
“In conclusion, we appreciate the continued efforts of regional and subregional partners and the international community, including the United Nations, the AU, the European Union and IGAD, among others, in bringing political stability to Somalia and the region and in support of Somali-led and Somali-owned peace, security and peacebuilding processes.”
2020-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1136 (2020) · source
“We wish to underline the critical importance of soliciting and taking into account the views of relevant key stakeholders on the continent, including the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and troop- and police- contributing countries concerning future international support to Somalia beyond 2021. There can be no real progress in Somalia or elsewhere on the African continent without the active participation and contribution of its peoples in seeking solutions to African problems and in seeking to silence the guns.”
2020-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1136 (2020) · source
“The A3+1 supports the continuing presence of AMISOM and UNSOM in Somalia, as the current security situation remains volatile and is characterized by frequent terrorist attacks. We also concur with the observations of the Secretary- General that a successful transition is contingent upon Somalia having adequate institutions, the generation of forces and the enhancement of the oversight, management and sustainment capacities of the Somali security services, including through financial, operational and logistical support. More efforts must be directed towards the realization of those benchmarks. We also recognize the relevance of conducting regular assessments and reviews of the assistance provided to Somalia by the United Nations and the African Union.”
2020-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1136 (2020) · source
“We call for more contributions to those trust funds, as the lack of funding may erode the gains made by Somalia, as supported by the United Nations and African Union missions. We urge a continued and strengthened working relationship between AMISOM and UNSOM to assist Somalia in taking ownership of its own security challenges, as envisaged by the Somali transition plan. We look forward to the finalization of the updated transition plan, which will guide the handing over of security responsibilities from AMISOM to the Somali security forces. However, we reiterate that the withdrawal and eventual exit of AMISOM from Somalia should be conditions-based and dependent on the security situation in the country.”
2020-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1136 (2020) · source
“On the role of the United Nations and AU missions, we commend the sustained commitment of the United Nations through UNSOM and the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), AMISOM, the United Nations Mine Action Service, the Federal Government and the federal member states of Somalia and international partners for their continuing efforts and the progress in bringing about stabilization and deepening federalism and State-building in Somalia. We are concerned that the United Nations trust funds in support of AMISOM and the Somali security forces are seriously underfunded. That will have a negative impact on AMISOM and the Somali security forces pertaining to the provision by UNSOS of essential logistical support, training, mentoring and equipment to counter the threat of IEDs.”
2020-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1136 (2020) · source