YouSaid · the spoken record

Kobler

lines on the record: 436
first: 2011-12-06
most recent: 2017-06-07
sittings or episodes: 22
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

“Together with the Special Envoys of the African Union, the European Union and the United States, she has created a positive dynamic and brought together all the key stakeholders towards open and continuous dialogue for durable peace and sustainable stability. We are cooperating in an exemplarily close way. The year 2013 also marked important accomplishments for MONUSCO. We have been able to conduct more robust military operations. We have made it clear that there would be no cohabitation with armed groups - any of them. Our position is clear. We are in the Democratic Republic of the Congo not to react, but to act; we are there not to deter, but to prevent; and not only do we keep the peace, but we must also make peace a long-term reality.”
2014-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7094 (2014) · source
“After the security incidents of 30 December, the spirit of optimism following the conclusion of the national dialogue, the defeat of the Mouvement du 23 mars (M-23) and President Kabila's tour of the east, have given way somewhat to a sense of fragility. It is therefore more important than ever that we stay committed to preventing a rollback of what has been achieved. The year 2013 was marked by three significant milestones: the signature of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework agreement; the adoption of resolution 2098 (2013), which created the MONUSCO Intervention Brigade, with a robust mandate; and the unwavering international cohesion exemplified by the team of Special Envoys. Allow me to highlight the relentless efforts of the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General, Mary Robinson.”
2014-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7094 (2014) · source
“Previously, I spoke in the future tense, but now I can speak in the present and even the past tense. The Kampala dialogue has been concluded in Nairobi. The Forces armees de la Republique democratique du Congo, supported by the MONUSCO Intervention Brigade, are conducting operations directed against the armed groups. The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has adopted its disarmament, demobilization and reintegration plan and, at this very moment, MONUSCO is being fully deployed towards the east to bolster its civil presence in the conflict- affected areas. Naturally, much remains to be done, but there can be no doubt that we are making progress. (spoke in English) Nevertheless, we have to add a word of caution here.”
2014-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7094 (2014) · source
“Mr. Kobler: I would like to express, at the outset, my sincere congratulations to Jordan for taking up the presidency of the Security Council for the month of January. At the same time, I would like to extend my best wishes to all the new members of the Security Council and, to those who celebrate the birthday of the Prophet, my deepest respects today. (spoke in French) It was just a month ago that I briefed the Security Council on the most recent political and military developments in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which demonstrates the Council's deep interest in the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic People's Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). Today I will share with the Council an overview of the latest developments in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the outlook for 2014.”
2014-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7094 (2014) · source
“They are the backbone and the very flesh and blood of the Mission. The Mission is evolving. It is adapting to the situation and to the new vision of the international community. For that change to take place effectively, I am happy to be able to rely on the support of the Council and all our partners. I would particularly like to thank all the Permanent Representatives of the Council for their recent Visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Their determination and energy are important evidence of the commitment of the international community for sustainable peace.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“I would also like to present my sincerest condolences to the families of Major Mshindo Hatibu Shaaban and Private Munga Hugo Barnabas, members of the Tanzanian contingent who lost their lives during the fighting at Kibati. (spoke in French) As the Council will have understood, the Mission is in full swing. It is evolving at this very moment in order to fully respond to the mandate the Council has entrusted to it. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my predecessor, Roger Meese, for his immense knowledge and for having entrusted to me a well organized Mission. I am particularly impressed by and filled with admiration for the Congolese staff, who are often exposed to security risks greater than what we experience at the international level. Both men and women in all sections are working with impressive devotion and expertise.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“The cooperation of the Government in the road map for handing over responsibilities to the country team is of the utmost importance. To that effect, the establishment of a joint intersectoral task force will closely guide and monitor planning and implementing commitments. Those ideas will become part of the mission concept in the next few weeks and will be submitted to Headquarters. Before concluding, allow me to express my deepest appreciation and respect to the Governments of all troop-contributing countries of MONUSCO for their commitment to peace, stability and the protection of civilians in the Democratic Republic ofthe Congo. Imet courageous men and women among the troops. I thank the stroop-contributing States for their endeavours.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“For greater impact in stabilization activities, the Council will observe in the near future a major shift of our civilian staff in the east to deploy them closer to communities affected by conflict, in tandem with the force's deployment. The Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Abdallah Wafy, has already been permanently reassigned to Goma as Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for operations in the east. The operational substantive units still based in Kinshasa will follow him. Secondly, we are reconsidering MONUSCO's presence in the areas not affected by armed conflict. MONUSCO'S presence will be reduced. The weight of the country team should be increased. Thirdly, the future of the United Nations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo belongs to the country team.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“With regard to child recruitment, in the coming days I will publicly present our report on child soldiers of the major armed groups, namely, Mayi-Mayi Nyatura, the FDLR and the M-23. Almost 1,000 cases of child recruitment were documented between January 2012 and August 2013. The human misery behind those statistics remains staggering, moving and unacceptable under any circumstances. One child soldier is one child soldier too many. To better respond to the priorities that I have outlined, I intend to restructure the Mission along the following three lines. First, we need a strengthened operational presence in the east.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“Between May and June, Congolese judicial authorities issued 13 arrest warrants against senior M-23 officers and political leaders, for war crimes, crimes against humanity and participation in an insurrection. However, a number of important cases remain stalled. One example is the case of serious human rights violations, including mass rape, committed by FARDC soldiers in November 2012 in and around Minova as the Congolese Army retreated from the front lines. I recognize the steps taken by the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, the military justice investigation has so far registered limited progress. My colleagues and I are in regular contact with the Government to provide regular updates.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“Sixth, with the appointment of Abbot Apollinaire Malu Malu Muholongu at the helm of the Independent National Electoral Commission, the electoral process seems to be revived. Consultations with donor partners and national stakeholders have gradually brought forward a consensus on a road map and subsequent sequencing of the different elections. That road map will pave the way for the adoption of an electoral calendar and the development of a realistic budget, which together would be a clear signal that the electoral process is again on track. The seventh priority is zero tolerance for sexual terrorism and child recruitment. Over the past year, there have been some notable advances in the fight against impunity for sexual crimes, including cases involving some undisciplined elements of the national security forces.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“Despite a boycott by part of the opposition, the Security Council presence at the closing ceremony of the national consultations on 5 October emphasized strong support for the process. Both security sector reform and oversight over the national benchmarks are among the priorities of my Deputy, Mr. Moustapha Soumare. Fifth, the priority is to stimulate regional cooperation. As trust is still low, MONUSCO is working in close partnership with the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region, Ms. Mary Robinson, to encourage regional confidence-building. Rebuilding relations of trust among neighbouring States is paramount to hope for a prosperous and stable Great Lakes region. Military action and strengthening civilian capacities in the east will have to be supported by countries of the Great Lakes region.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“That coordination structure should considerably accelerate defence and security reforms. Fourth, the Mission will focus on the benchmarking of the national commitments under the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework. The Government is committed to an agenda of progress. In that context, MONUSCO supports the national oversight mechanism for the Framework. Stakeholders discussed and validated benchmarks for three of the commitments: security sector reform, consolidation of State authority and decentralization. On 19 September, President Kabila convened for the first time the steering committee of the national oversight mechanism to approve that set of benchmarks. We encourage the Government to integrate those approved benchmarks into national planning processes so as to ensure coherence and full implementation.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“Third, security sector reform (SSR), and especially army reform, are critical to the Mission, in terms of the implementation of both resolution 2098 (2013) and the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework. The benchmarks for security sector reform are clearly defined. Our approach must be practical. At the national level, the Mission is focused on providing good offices, coordination and technical advice. That way, we hope to advance the implementation of policies, build political will, and support dialogue between the Government and partners. During a meeting chaired by Deputy Special Representative Soumare on 11 October, international partners agreed to coordinate their SSR initiatives via an expanded SSR coordination working group, to be chaired by the Congolese Minister of Defence and supported by MONUSCO.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“The operations in support of the Forces armees de la Republique democratique du Congo (FARDC) assault on Kibati were a clear illustration of the approach of "one mandate, one mission, one force". We engage all our forces and assets with the objectives of protecting civilians and maintaining military pressure in support of reviving the political process. We aim to increase the force's flexibility so that it is able to deter violence by intervening in advance rather than reacting after events. We are also improving information gathering in support of proactive operations. Force Commander General Dos Santos Cruz, Deputy Force Commander General Jean Baillaud, who is with me today, and I are in contact with the troop-contributing countries on this threat.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“First, the restoration of State authority and the protection of civilians are central to all our efforts to stabilize eastern Congo. MONUSCO aims to help the Congolese State reclaim control of areas that armed groups and criminal networks have dominated, in some cases for decades. Building on integrated planning, a new concept is being developed to assist the Government in restoring State authority and stabilizing areas cleared of armed groups, known as islands of stability. Second, the military posture of the force must adapt to the new realities. The entire MONUSCO force must be deployed and operate with a proactive stance to deter violence and ensure the security of civilians, the core of our mandate.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“Resolution 2098 (2013) has given the Mission new tools and a renewed determination with which to address those challenges and grasp those opportunities. The Mission's organizational structure and core priorities must be better aligned with the mandate. The Mission priority must also be aligned to support all six national commitments of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region. Finally, the military and civilian structure in the eastern region also have to be aligned. As we move to redefine priorities, reconfigure the Mission's structure and align the resources needed, the Mission's senior management and I have identified the following drivers of change to guide our decision-making and planning.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“I would be grateful if the Security Council could lend its full support in bringing the Kampala negotiations to a swift end and foster a sustainable and irreversible solution to the conflict. Those situations are never easy, and the implementation of the agreement depends on the political will of the parties. But the M-23 is not our only concern. The Forces democratiques de liberation du Rwanda (FDLR), the Allied Democratic Forces, and many Mayi-Mayi groups that terrorize the population in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo also continue to represent a significant threat to civilians and to State authority. Let me take this opportunity to brief the Council on the priorities of the Mission as I see them after my first two months in office.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“I have myself spoken to those who stay in our disarmament, demobilization and reintegration camp in Goma. That and other kinds of external involvement must stop. Those developments also underscore the urgent need to seek a viable political solution. That process has to be accompanied by regional confidence-building measures. I have gone to Kigali several times in the past two months since taking up office, and I will continue to do so. It is important to strengthen confidence-building between MONUSCO and the Government of Rwanda. I feel encouraged that it is the view of the Government of Rwanda that peace and stability and the restoration of State authority in the east is better for the whole region than continued military confrontation, human suffering and illegal exploitation of mineral resources.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“It is not acceptable that the M-23 defies the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region, which established the confidence-building mechanism to reduce potential regional tensions. Information gathered indicates that the M-23 has also strengthened its front line in the South, near Goma. Another issue of deep concern is the persistent reports on the return of several hundred refugee families that have crossed the border into M-23-controlled areas, where apparently they are being constrained to settle. Reportedly, young men among the returnees are being recruited for training for the M-23. Since the emergence of the M-23, the Mission has sheltered almost 200 surrendering combatants, who consistently and credibly claim to have been recruited on Ugandan but mainly on Rwandan territory.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“The Special Envoy and myself have condemned those military attacks on peacekeepers in the strongest terms. However, for the sake of safeguarding an environment conducive to a negotiated settlement, I decided not to retaliate, in accordance with the rules of engagement. In an attempt to verify allegations that the M-23 is reinforcing its military positions in areas along the borders with Rwanda and Uganda, I have requested the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism to investigate a suspected ammunition site in M-23-controlled territory. The inspection was supposedto take place on 18 October. The military command of the M-23, however, prevented the inspectors from fulfilling their duties. The mission had to be aborted.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“Crispus Kiyonga, who left no stone unturned to make minds and intractable positions converge. In addition, I would like to thank in particular Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and the Francophony, Raymond Tshibanda N'tungamulongo, for his exceptional patience and unrelenting perseverance in leading the Congolese delegation towards the peaceful settlement of the conflict with an illegal armed group. Regardless of the progress in Kampala, the situation on the ground remains volatile and of great concern. In recent days, we have observed a considerable military build-up on both sides of the front line. At the same time, the M-23 has fired twice at unarmed United Nations helicopters, and has strengthened its offensive positions threatening United Nations peacekeepers.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“I urge the M-23 in particular to use the dynamics of the past two days to move more constructively and without delay to resolve the remaining issues in the next few days in order to restore peace to the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. I welcome the assurances of Minister for Foreign Affairs Raymond Tshibanda N'tungamulongo that the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo remains committed to concluding the remaining points of the agreement, and that he will be ready to return to the negotiation table once the negotiation teams clarify the outstanding issues. I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to and admiration for the President of Uganda, Mr. Yoweri Museveni, and of his Minister of Defence, Mr.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“Those guiding principles were communicated to both the Facilitator and the negotiating parties. With the permission of Council members, we will continue in that line during the ongoing negotiations here in Kampala. Last night ended with the Facilitator initialling eight out of the 11 paragraphs with the consent of the parties. Considerable progress has been made on the question of amnesty for M-23 combatants and on the security arrangements. I believe that the remaining gaps can be bridged; that is why it is all the more regrettable that this unique opportunity could not be seized upon to reach an overall deal.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“MONUSCO could not support an agreement at any price. Secondly, as the implementation of the agreement would fully depend on the goodwill of the parties, the overall responsibility had to remain with the negotiating parties. Thirdly, MONUSCO's role would mainly consist of providing support to the four phases of the transitional security arrangements and the subsequent disarmament, demobilization and reintegration process. Thus, despite not being party to the agreement, MONUSCO needed to agree on the practicalities mentioned in the annex relating to the transitional security arrangements, as the negotiating parties could not decide on those issues without MONUSCO's consent. Fourthly, the arrangements detailing MONUSCO'S potential role would remain subject to the approval of the Security Council.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“My main role in the process was to pledge the support of MONUSCO to any agreement, as such an accord would enable MONUSCO to fulfil its mandate to disband the M-23, to the protect civilians and to bring peace to eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Thus, in outlining any potential MONUSCO role in the implementation of the Kampala accord, I was fully aware of the dilemma - one also raised by some Council members - not to be complicit to an imperfect agreement or to be part of the negotiations, on the one hand, while contributing to effectively shape the details of the agreement on a potential role for MONUSCO is concerned, on the other. In so doing, I was guided by the following principles. First, only a fair agreement - not necessarily a perfect one - would form the basis for a sustainable solution and effective implementation.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“As of this morning, that objective has not been reached. I do not want to conceal my slight disappointment that, after four long days and nights of negotiations until the early morning hours of today, it has not been possible to reach a comprehensive deal despite the pressure of the five envoys as supportive observers. A joint meeting with President Paul Kagame on 18 October, the constructive attitude of the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in particular its Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Francophony, Raymond Tshibanda N'tungamulongo, and the incessant and patient efforts of the Facilitator, the Minister of Defence of Uganda, Mr. Crispus Kiyonga.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo ultimately decided to send a high-level delegation, including Foreign Minister Tshibanda. The five envoys, led by Special Envoy Mary Robinson, closely followed the proceedings of the negotiations and tried to instil the negotiating parties with a sense of urgency, given the unique momentum. Intensive talks on the margin of the plenary sessions ensued. The Special Envoy of the Secretary-General will give more detail. The objective was to bring the Kampala talks to an end by concluding a comprehensive agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Mouvement du 23 mars (M-23) to end the rebellion, disband the M-23 and allow its transformation into a political movement within the limits of the Constitution and the laws of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“(spoke in English) As the Council has just returned from its visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, let me focus on three topics:the Kampala talks, the mission Priorities and the endeavours to align the Mission structures to the revised Mission priorities. At the request of the Facilitator, the Ugandan Minister of Defence, Mr. Kiyonga, Ijoined the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General to the Great Lakes Region, Mary Robinson, as well as the other special envoys to the region, in the Kampala talks on 16 October. The previous week, I had extensive exchanges with the Congolese Minister for Foreign Affairs, Raymond Tshibanda N'tungamulongo, as well as other members of the Congolese Government, asking them to attend the talks in person.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“It is an honour and pleasure to address the Council today to introduce the second report of the Secretary-General (S/2013/581) following the adoption of resolution 2098 (2013). Before I address the most recent developments concerning the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, I wish to underscore my regret for being unable to be physically present in the Council Chamber today, due to the ongoing talks in Kampala. I am addressing members from Kampala itself, having participated as an observer in the talks into the small hours of this morning.”
2013-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7046 (2013) · source
“My admiration goes to each and every single one of them for their dedicated work - the support staff, air operators and engineers, cooks and cleaners, computer specialists and security personnel, without whom we cannot fulfil our political, human rights and development mandate. I leave with a feeling of professional and human satisfaction. A great deal of ground has been covered during the past years, but a great deal still needs to be done. UNAMI's role is more important than ever. I count on my colleagues to pursue the Mission's mandate with the same level of professionalism and dedication. I wish my successor the best of luck. I have tried to take the mandate the Council entrusted to me seriously - to advise, support and assist the people and the Government of Iraq.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“The direness of the situation requires that the international community dedicate far more attention to the region as a whole, as developments are interrelated. I wish to thank the Government of Iraq for its cooperation during 2013, as in the years before. I also wish to place on record my deep thanks to the Security Council for its continued support. But at the end of my tenure, my special thanks go to our team of the United Nations family, UNAMI and the country team, the hundreds of dedicated men and women who work in Iraq under extremely difficult circumstances, in a violent environment.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“Fear, frustration, helplessness - these feelings plague the youth of Iraq and run contrary to the spirit of hope, optimism and ambition that fuels their deep belief in their country. Young Iraqis seek a better life abroad because hope and optimism are fading. I believe that they would stay if they could just have a chance to shape their own futures in the land where they were born. Leaders need to act now to keep the promising young population in Iraq. The national youth strategy should not remain a piece of paper, but must be filled with life. I would like to conclude with a final appeal to the Council and the international community. As upheaval and uncertainty sweep through the Middle East, it is high time that the international community and regional actors develop a vision for the whole region.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“The depth of my concern for Iraq's young people is now a familiar topic to the Council. I would like to raise the issue of their plight with more urgency than ever. I have spoken of the devastating death toll that Iraq has seen in past months. Terror and violence have a deep and troubling impact on young people. Iraq has now seen decades of conflict and fear. Yet another generation is confronted with trauma and bloodshed. The traumatized children and young people of today are the traumatized adults of tomorrow. Insecurity is just one of the reasons they feel powerless. Young Iraqis want education and opportunities, but cannot find jobs. Young Iraqis are dynamic and political, but have no representation and no platform to raise their voices.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“As such, I welcome the launch of the United Nations Environment Programme's new regional programme to combat sand and dust storms. I would also like to welcome Prime Minister Al-Maliki's high-level initiative to set up a national commission to combat sand and dust storms in Iraq and to facilitate regional cooperation on this matter. It is imperative to reverse the environmental degradation in Iraq and the region now. My last point is that women represent more than half of the Iraqi population, but insecurity, discrimination and other factors still reduce the opportunities Iraqi women have to rebuild their country. I call on the Government to scale up and implement a national policy on women. Peace and progress will be achieved in Iraq only if both men and women can live without the fear of violence. Deeds have to follow words.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“Iraq is now the third largest oil exporter and the second largest oil producer of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries. The country's vast natural resources are like a trust fundamental - gold literally lying underfoot. However, Iraq needs to efficiently manage and share the revenues of its hydrocarbon resources. This is critical to Iraq's economic growth, social development and political stability. To ensure that all Iraqis benefit, I call on the central Government and the Kurdistan Regional Government to agree on the oil and gas and revenue-sharing laws without further delay. Thirdly, the environment should be protected. Iraq lies at the centre of the sand and dust storms that are damaging the well-being of its population and its economy. Its neighbours suffer equally.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“Shiites, Sunnis, Kurds, Turkomans, Assyrians, Christians, Shabak, Sabean Mandaens, Yezidis and others have all experienced suffering that will not and cannot be forgotten and must never be repeated. I know most Iraqis look to the future, and away from the past. They should embrace all of their communities as part of a peaceful coexistence. To ehlp them do so, I would like to highlight four principles I deem important at the end of my tenure. First, the Constitution should be upheld and implemented in full. The first articles of the Iraqi Constitution emphasize the need to protect the country's diversity and federalism. This is why Iraqis must return to the Constitution as the political framework for resolving all prevailing conflicts. Secondly, Iraq's resources should be utilized efficiently and distributed equitably.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“I call upon Camp Hurriya residents to accept our extended hand to help them pursue a new life. I would like to renew my call for all parties to continue to be patient and to find a peaceful resolution to outstanding issues. At the end of my tenure in Iraq, I would like to conclude with some personal observations. A striking feature about Iraq and its people is that Iraqis are enjoying new-found freedoms despite all of the violence. I have intentionally chosen the memorial in Halabja as the destination of my first and one of my last visits outside ofBaghdad as a symbol and reminder that the atrocities of dictatorship must never come back; as a symbol and reminder that the future of Iraq lies in peaceful coexistence; and as a symbol and reminder that choosing the right path now can ensure peaceful conditions for tomorrow.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“I urge the Camp leadership to fully respect the rights of the residents, to let those residents to leave the Camp if they wish to do so, to allow their freedom of movement within the Camp without supervision, and to permit residents to have free and unimpeded access to unsupervised telephone calls, email communications and internet access. Also, the Camp leadership does not allow unsupervised conversation with United Nations monitors. Some residents have reported to United Nations monitors that they face severe consequences for attempting to contact United Nations monitors without the permission of the resident leadership. I am also disappointed that United Nations monitors are often abused. Our colleagues do not deserve to be spat at. Our commitment is a humanitarian one.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“A significant number of residents have reported to United Nations monitors that they are not free to leave the Camp, to participate in the resettlement process offered by UNHCR, to contact family members outside Iraq, or to have contact with other relatives even within the Camp itself. Some residents reported that they had been denied access to medical treatment by the residents' leaders. Others reported having been subjected to verbal and other forms of abuse for disagreeing with the resident leaders or for expressing the wish to leave the Camp.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“There is no peaceful solution other than relocation to countries outside Iraq, and I appeal to all Member States to consider taking in the remaining residents. However, relocation to third countries requires the cooperation of Camp Hurriya residents with UNHCR. Since the terror attack of 9 February, Camp Hurriya residents have been boycotting interviews with UNHCR. As a result, UNHCR is readjusting its presence and will keep a reduced workforce in case the residents decide to restart the process and start cooperating, but also to allow for the possibility that additional countries will come forward with relocation offers. Of increasing concern are the human rights abuses in Camp Hurriya itself by the camp leadership. Hundreds of daily monitoring reports suggest that the lives of Camp Hurriya residents are tightly controlled.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“Unfortunately the Government has not yet fully responded to them. Secondly, the situation in Camp Ashraf remains tense. The remaining 100 residents are not willing to leave the camp without resolution of the property question. In the meantime, the Government has taken legal steps to evict the remaining residents and address the property question, and has requested the residents to nominate lawyers to represent them in the legal proceedings. The residents, however, have failed to do so. Thirdly, the Governments of Albania and Germany have offered to relocate 210 and about 100 residents, respectively, to their countries. The relocation to both countries has started, and I would like to thank both Governments for their generosity in offering relocation opportunities. We are, however, still looking to relocate 90 per cent of the residents.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“The other was consistent, confidential and constructive talks behind the scenes. My thanks also go to the United States and the European Union for their support. Allow me to add four brief remarks on the topic. First, our main concern is the security of Camp Hurriya residents. On 9 February and 15 June, the camp was attacked by rockets. I strongly condemn the attacks. Ten residents were tragically killed and 71 others wounded as a result. The Government is still investigating the incidents. Under the memorandum of understanding, the Government of Iraq is exclusively responsible for the security and safety of the residents. I have repeatedly reminded the Iraqi authorities at the highest levels, both in writing and orally, to fulfil the camp residents' requests for additional protective measures.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“Together, we have left no stone unturned in our quest to find a humanitarian solution, made possible through persistent negotiations among all concerned. I thank the Government of Iraq for its constructive approach and understanding. I know it is not yet satisfied with the overall success so far, but major bloodshed may be averted. I am also grateful to the residents of Camp Ashraf and Camp Hurriya and their leaders. I have always understood their feelings. It is hard for them to leave a place where they have spent most of their adult life - Camp Ashraf. I recall my many meetings with the Mojahedin-e Khalq leadership in Paris, and the more than 60 hours of negotiations needed to bring about the voluntary and peaceful relocation of all but 100 residents. Throughout the process, the world of propaganda was one side of the coin.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“On 16 April, Iraq executed 21 persons convicted under its anti-terrorism law. I am encouraged that no further executions have taken place since last April. Once again, I appeal to the Government to declare a formal moratorium on implementation of the death penalty. I would now like to turn to the issue of Camp Ashraf and Camp Hurriya temporary transit locations. Looking back at the end of my tenure, we have come a long way. A major crisis was defused in December 2011. Since then, almost all residents of Camp Ashraf have been relocated to Camp Hurriya. Of the residents, 1,600 have been recognized by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) as persons in need ofinternational protection, and 135 have been relocated to safe countries.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“For children, it has left one in three deprived of many basic services and fundamental rights. It is an area where grave violations continue. Minorities have also fallen victim to targeted acts of violence, including murder and kidnapping for ransom. In the last few weeks and months there have been specific atttacks on Yezidi, Christian and black Iraqi communities. No element has been spared. On 25 June, two suicide bombers in Tuz Khormato caused casualties among members of the Turkmen minority. Among those killed were two Turkmen leaders. At the same time, UNAMI continues to learn about abuse, mistreatment and torture in prisons, especially in facilities under the Ministry of Interior - an area that has come into greater focus because it is covered under the demonstrators' demands.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“Since March 2013, however, the crossing points have been completely closed, preventing Syrians from seeking refuge in Iraq. I appeal to the Government of Iraq to reopen the border as quickly as possible. The factors of instability I have mentioned are having a direct impact on the lives of Iraqis, especially in the area of human rights, one of grave concern for us. The worsening security situation is preventing many Iraqis from living a secure life, as anyone should. As the people of Kirkuk observed the holy month of Ramadan, dozens have been killed in cold blood as they celebrated Ramadan in crowded cafe's. I strongly condemn the brutal terrorist attacks that have killed hundreds of people in the past two weeks. The legacy of that conflict is prevalent throughout society.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“In order to respond to the Syrian crisis, Iraq's United Nations humanitarian agencies have issued the fifth Syria Regional Response Plan, amounting to $310 million, which will cover humanitarian operations until the end of this year. I call on Member States to contribute to this financial appeal and meet the humanitarian needs of the refugees. I would like to commend the Governments of Iraq and the Kurdistan region for what they have done so far for the Syrian refugees. I call on the central and Kurdish authorities to extend their generosity and hospitality by providing more resources and additional land needed for Domiz. I would also like to draw the Council's attention to the issue of border closure with Syria, which has increasingly limited protection space for those in need.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“Iraqi armed groups have an increasingly active presence in Syria. As such, the Syrian conflict is no longer only spilling over into Iraq. Instead, it has spread to Iraq, since Iraqis are reportedly taking up arms against each other in Syria and in Iraq. That violence could easily spiral out of control ifit is not speedily addressed. The Syrian conflict is having an impact on Iraq through the continued influx of refugees. As of 7 July, more than 160,000 Syrian refugees had been registered in Iraq, the majority in the Kurdistan region. A particularly urgent situation is arising at the Domiz camp in the Kurdistan region. The growing number of refugees entering the region has led to overcrowding at the camp. Domiz has a capacity of 28,000, but it is now housing some 42,000 people.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source
“By receiving the funds set aside with the United Nations for the compensation of Iraqi private citizens whose assets remained on Kuwaiti territory after the demarcation, the Government of Iraq was able to bring closure to resolution 899 (1994). UNAMI is looking forward to implementing resolution 2107 (2013), which transferred the obligations on missing Kuwaitis, third- country nationals and Kuwaiti property, including national archives, to the Mission. I similarly commend the visit of His Highness Prime Minister A1 Sabah on 12 June to Baghdad, which resulted in the signing of a number of bilateral agreements in various areas. I am confident that both Governments have now ushered in a new era of cooperation. The violence in Iraq cannot be separated from the civil war in Syria. The battlefields are merging.”
2013-07-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7002 (2013) · source