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

“During my most recent visit to Kirkuk, all the interlocutors, including the Governor, the Deputy Governor and the Provincial Council Chairman, emphasized the importance of holding provincial elections in Kirkuk as soon as possible and of the need for the United Nations to play a facilitation role in those and other outstanding issues. It goes without saying that there can be no true democracy without free, fair and competitive elections. This makes UNAMI's work of providing electoral support all the more important for consolidating democracy in Iraq. At the request of the Council of Representatives, UNAMI has been serving as adviser and observer in the selection process of the Board of Commissioners of the Independent High Electoral Commission before the expiration this month of the current Board's term.”
2012-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6747 (2012) · source
“I call on all Iraqi leaders to sit down together to address all their differences in a meaningful way. UNAMI stands ready to continue to support such efforts. Arab-Kurdish relations in general, and issues pertaining to the disputed internal boundaries in particular, remain at the heart of UNAMI's mandate. In that regard, the Standing Consultation Mechanism launched by UNAMI was an important forum for 12-28745 addressing the issue of disputed internal boundaries. Regrettably, the series of political crises has made it difficult for the Mechanism to convene. Redoubling our efforts to facilitate progress on the issue of Kirkuk, my Deputy and I have made it a priority to pay regular visits to the area to promote political dialogue between the parties.”
2012-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6747 (2012) · source
“Such political facilitation and outreach have become all the more important in the light of the tensions that have arisen between the main parliamentary blocs in Iraq, and which have developed into a political impasse. I have therefore encouraged Iraqi political parties and leaders to work together in a spirit of partnership towards finding the common ground that will help them resolve their differences. In that regard, Al-Iraqiya's decision to end its boycott of the Council of Ministers and the Council of Representatives was the right step. It was President Taiabani's suggestion to hold a national conference as a way to help put an end to the stalemate. So far, unfortunately, there has been no agreement on an agenda. An inclusive forum. however, is needed as a first step towards ending the political impasse.”
2012-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6747 (2012) · source
“I will continue to assist in expediting the normalization of relations between the two countries, including by further visits to Kuwait. The continuing violence in Syria is fraught with risks that could have dangerous spillover effects on Iraq, affecting its fragile balance of power and increasing communal tensions. In addition, it has already begun to have an impact on Iraqi refugees in Syria. The United Nations country team has therefore undertaken extensive contingency planning to mitigate possible problems. I took up my functions as Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq some six months ago. Since then, I have expanded my consultations with political leaders of all elements of Iraqi society and with representatives of the political parties, including several visits to the Kurdistan region and other governorates.”
2012-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6747 (2012) · source
“The meeting should provide both sides with an invaluable opportunity to review all pending bilateral issues, as well as Iraq's outstanding obligations under Chapter VII. I commend the Kuwaiti and Iraqi Governments for their efforts to improve bilateral relations. Officials in both countries relayed their positions to the Secretary-General during his visit to Kuwait and Iraq at the end of March. In their meetings with the Secretary-General, both countries welcomed Mr. Al-Maliki's visit to Kuwait as a historic and 12-28745 important step towards normalizing relations between them. During his visit, the Secretary-General urged the Iraqi Government to continue to work to fulfil all its obligations pursuant to all relevant outstanding United Nations resolutions under Chapter VII.”
2012-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6747 (2012) · source
“I am hopeful that this willingness to work together, and the practical steps already taken by the Government of Iraq to fulfil its outstanding obligations under Chapter VII of the Charter, will help bring closure to this long-standing problem. On 14 March, the Iraqi Prime Minister Mr. Al-Maliki undertook an important two-day visit to Kuwait. As a result, Iraq agreed to proceed with the pending Iraq-Kuwait boundary maintenance project, pursuant to resolution 833 (1993), and to transfer its share of funds allocated for the project's completion to the United Nations immediately after Prime Minister Al-Maliki's visit. Most significantly, during the visit the two Governments agreed to resume their high-level bilateral talks and to hold the second Iraq-Kuwait high- level cooperation committee meeting this month.”
2012-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6747 (2012) · source
“The historic presence at the summit of the Emir of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, also highlighted the significant improvement in relations between Iraq and Kuwait. Iraq now stands to play a positive role in the region as it assumes the chairmanship of the Arab League as a fully independent and sovereign State. This represents an important opportunity to play a leading role in addressing some of the pressing issues of concern to Arab States and improving cooperation among them. The recent steps taken by Iraq and Kuwait to normalize their relations and resolve all the issues remaining between them is encouraging.”
2012-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6747 (2012) · source
“It is true that domestic political issues and the potential fallout from regional crises, such as the one ongoing in Syria, continue to pose obstacles for Iraq as it marches on the road to full recovery. The continued delays in convening the national conference underscore the urgent need for Iraqi leaders to summon the political will and courage to work together to solve the 2 country's problems through an inclusive dialogue. In that regard, UNAMI will continue to remain steadfast in its commitment to assisting the Government and people of Iraq with addressing the major challenges facing their nation. In many ways, the holding of the twenty-third League of Arab States summit in Baghdad on 29 March was a measure of how far Iraq has come after decades of war, dictatorship and economic hardship.”
2012-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6747 (2012) · source
“Mr. Kobler: It is a great pleasure to introduce the second report (S/2012/185) of the Secretary-General pursuant to paragraph 6 of resolution 2001 (2011) on the activities of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), as well as the situation in the country. Since my last briefing of the Security Council (see S/PV.6675), there have been several important developments in Iraq. The United States completed the withdrawal of its armed forces from the country on 31 December. The withdrawal has provided the democratically elected Government of Iraq with the opportunity to turn a new page in its history and assert its country's full sovereignty. On 29 March, Iraq hosted the League of Arab States summit. That historic event marked Iraq's re-emergence as a major actor in the region.”
2012-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6747 (2012) · source
“I would also like to express my deepest appreciation for the security support provided to the United Nations by the Government of Iraq and the Member States contributing troops and police to UNAMI. Finally, I would also like to pay tribute to the United Nations national and international staff who work in Iraq, under the most challenging circumstances. I am confident that with their determination and the support of the Council, we can achieve more in Iraq, in line with our mandate. I appreciate, in this context, the openness of all my interlocutors and their stated expectation to see the United Nations engaging with the people and the Government of Iraq to consolidate the significant gains made thus far.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“In that context, I also welcome the readiness of the Islamic Republic of Iran to receive those residents of Camp Ashraf who express a desire to voluntarily return to their home country with the assurance that their welfare, security and safety will be respected. Let me say that the situation of Camp Ashraf is a complex one but that the problems are not insurmountable. A process is under way, and if all concerned act responsibly at this time, it will be possible to arrive at a peaceful, durable solution that respects both the safety, security and welfare of Camp residents and Iraq's understandable desire to assert its sovereignty. In conclusion, I would like to thank the members of the Security Council for their continued support.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“Clearly, the situation cannot be fully resolved before 31 December. I therefore appeal to the Government of Iraq to extend the deadline in order to permit adequate time and space for a solution to be found. I also appeal to the leadership and residents of Camp Ashraf to engage constructively and with an open mind to the proposed process. They should give serious consideration to the proposals under discussion. There should be no provocation or violence from their side nor a challenge to Iraqi sovereignty. Finally, I appeal to the international community to do more to help. A lasting solution cannot be found unless Governments step forward and offer to accept Camp Ashraf residents for resettlement in their countries. I will be travelling to Brussels today and will emphasize that point, in particular with my interlocutors there.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“Secondly, we believe that any workable solution must be acceptable to both the Government of Iraq and to the residents of Camp Ashraf. A solution must respect Iraqi sovereignty, on the one hand, and applicable international humanitarian, human rights and refugee law on the other hand. Thirdly, a solution must also respect the principle of non-refoulement. No resident of Camp Ashraf should be returned to his or her home country without his or her consent. While some progress has been made in our latest discussions in Baghdad, many obstacles remain to arriving at a plan that would meet the concerns and requirements of all interested parties. Subject to all conditions being met, UNHCR is ready to begin the verification and interviews for the purposes of refugee status determination. However, the process will take time to complete.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“Those visits provide the opportunity to listen to the concerns of the residents and to brief them on the proposals being discussed. The Secretary-General has spoken personally to Prime Minister al-Maliki to appeal for flexibility and full support for the United Nations efforts to facilitate the peaceful solution the Government has assured that it seeks. He has asked me to attach the highest priority to that issue. In trying to facilitate a solution, we are emphasizing a number of important points. First, we must keep in mind that lives are at stake and must be protected. The Government has a responsibility to ensure the safety, security and welfare of the residents. Any forced action that results in bloodshed or loss of life would be both ill-advised and unacceptable.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“The Government of Iraq is also committed to the principle of non-refoulement and gave assurances to the Secretary-General of its commitment to find a peaceful solution. There is, however, a real danger of confrontation and even violence unless a mutually acceptable solution is found. We are therefore calling on all concerned to act with restraint and flexibility to ensure that such a peaceful solution can be found. The United Nations efforts are being led on the ground by UNAMI and UNHCR. Those efforts have intensified in recent weeks in the context of a working group on Camp Ashraf, which has been meeting frequently with the Government of Iraq. UNAMI continues its regular visits to Camp Ashraf, the most recent of which took place this past weekend.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“We believe that such a solution is possible. However, the positions of the Government of Iraq and of the Camp residents and their leadership continue to remain far apart. The Government of Iraq repeatedly emphasized its intention to close down the camp by 31 December of this year and to transfer its residents to another location until countries are found outside Iraq where they can resettle. That deadline is fast approaching. The position of Camp Ashraf residents is to remain in the camp until countries are found to receive them. They still do not agree to be transferred to a new location outside the camp without the protection of Blue Helmets. I am pleased by the progress made so far and by the Government of Iraq's agreement to allow UNHCR to play the role it has under its mandate.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“I believe that UNAMI is well placed to help normalize Iraq's relations with Kuwait in the framework of concerted United Nations engagement and with the support of the Security Council. UNAMI and I, personally, stand ready to assist, including by exploring new avenues to address the standstill between the two countries and facilitate progress towards Iraq's full compliance with, and eventual exit from, Chapter VII, while providing Kuwait with the necessary safeguards and assurances it is looking for. I would now like to draw the Council's attention to the situation with regard to Camp Ashraf, which remains a matter of great concern. The Government of Iraq has asked the United Nations to help facilitate a peaceful and durable solution to the matter, and we are making an exhaustive effort to do so.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“During my recent meetings with Iraqi leaders, I was encouraged by the goodwill they have expressed towards improving relations with Kuwait. Similarly, during my recent visit to Kuwait, I was encouraged by the goodwill towards Iraq shown by my Kuwaiti interlocutors. While reiterating the importance they attached to a letter from Prime Minister al-Maliki reaffirming Iraq's land and maritime borders, in accordance with resolution 833 (1993), they responded positively to my suggestion that the focus for the time being should be on the implementation of Iraq's Chapter VII obligations on a priority basis, for example, border management projects, maintenance, and compensation and relocation of farmers.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“That in turn would open the door for the early normalization of Iraq's status in the international community by the Security Council, which is now long overdue. Further efforts are therefore needed to promote confidence between the two countries and facilitate solutions to deal with outstanding bilateral issues. I am encouraged by the resolve that both Iraq and Kuwait have demonstrated to improve bilateral relations, particularly through reciprocal high-level visits earlier this year and the establishment of a Joint Ministerial Working Committee. I hope that following the forthcoming visit of Prime Minister al-Maliki to Kuwait, the two sides will be able to resume the work of the Joint Ministerial Working Committee in the near future.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“A contingency plan has been prepared by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), with a view to addressing any movement of population into Iraq and is being regularly updated to take into consideration the fluid situation in Syria. Of particular importance are the relations between Iraq and Kuwait. Both countries share a difficult past. The 2009 report of the Secretary-General (S/2009/385) envisaged a road map for the normalization of Iraq's international status. There has been, however, little progress. In my recent discussions with the Iraqi Government, I have encouraged them to quickly implement Iraq's outstanding Chapter VII obligations, as outlined in that road map.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“As mentioned in the report of the Secretary- General, tensions escalated in northern Iraq following the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) terrorist attacks on 19 October against Turkish forces in the south-eastern province of Hakkari, which resulted in the deplorable loss of 24 lives and led to subsequent air and ground offensives by Turkish forces against PKK terrorists in Iraqi Kurdistan. Despite that difficult situation, the Governments of Turkey and Iraq, together with the Kurdistan Regional Government authorities, have proactively engaged in constructive crisis management. To date, those mitigating efforts have proven successful, and I would like to thank all concerned for those efforts. As one can easily imagine, unfolding events in Syria are of concern to many of my interlocutors, who fear possible repercussions in Iraq.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“They are at the core of Iraq's potential to realize sustainable development and achieve the Millennium Development Goals. I would also like to focus on question of improving the situation of women. Specifically, I will focus my efforts on three priority activities: first, promoting the participation of women and their role in building Iraq's sustainable and peaceful future; secondly, combating all forms of violence against women and girls; and thirdly, promoting education for women and girls, including vocational training. Democratic and economic development can prosper only in a stable regional environment and Iraq's stability depends on good-relations with its neighbours. Those relations, however, could be significantly affected by various unfolding events in the region.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“On the development side, the United Nations country team's partnership with the Government continues in the implementation of the United Nations Development Assistance Framework. The Government's efforts to allocate a specific line of funding for development projects within its investment budget for 2012 demonstrate its commitment to supporting the country's key development priorities. The United Nations stands ready to provide the Government with support in implementing those priorities. With respect to integrated development priorities, UNAMI will in the coming months focus on three issues with political, security and governance implications: youth, water resource management and environment. I strongly believe that these provide opportunities for a cross-cutting impact across Iraq's critical development challenges.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“More specifically, the confirmed recent killing of a human rights activist by an improvised explosive device attached to his car in Kirkuk on 20 November brings the number of reported violent incidents against human rights defenders to 11 since the beginning of October. Of equal concern are attempts against freedom of expression - a fundamental right in all democracies. During the reporting period, journalists continued to be the targets of attacks. UNAMI's Office of Human Rights continues, together with the Government of Iraq, to follow up each and every individual case. They will be included in the Mission's upcoming regular report on the situation of human rights in Iraq.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“I am pleased to report that the Council of Representatives has formally requested UNAMI to perform an advisory role in the selection process of the next Board of Commissioners. I turn now to the situation of human rights. Much has still to be done to address the difficulties faced by all Iraqis in their daily lives. Every month, an average of 600 to 800 incidents, resulting in at least 10 civilian deaths per day and many more injuries, continue to be reported. I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the victims of these atrocious acts, and I call on the Government of Iraq to do everything in its power to protect the victims of violence and to ensure that those who perpetrate such acts are held accountable according to law.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“After the withdrawal of the United States forces from Iraq, it will be of particular importance that democratic standards, including respect for the rule of law in relation to electoral processes and human rights, be safeguarded and further advanced. There must be no rollback. The transparency and professionalism of future electoral processes are essential to ensuring that Iraqi citizens accept the results. Iraq has a busy electoral calendar ahead, for which a professional and independent electoral commission is essential. The appointment of the new Board of Commissioners of the Independent High Electoral Commission, to be completed by April 2012, will be the foundation of the credibility of all upcoming elections.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“I have already initiated discussions with all concerned on the issue of Kirkuk, including holding elections and improving security, and a possible third- party role for UNAMI in the combined security mechanism. The recent deployment of the Iraqi Army around the Kirkuk airport was viewed with concern by leaders of the Kurdistan Regional Government and further underlined the need to ensure that the necessary mechanisms are in place for settling disputes. In this regard, I call upon the parties involved to use existing mechanisms to avoid confrontation and to provide the necessary space for UNAMI to assist.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“As called for by the Secretary-General in his report, Iraqi leaders should take the steps necessary to overcome the current stand still in the appointment of security ministers and 11-62375 to resolve other pending issues regarding the Government formation process. Arab-Kurd relations and issues pertaining to disputed internal boundaries have always been at the core of UNAMI's mandate. They represent a major element in the country's stability and remain one of UNAMI's top priorities. I am pleased that Prime Minister Al-Maliki has asked me for UNAMI's continued involvement and assistance on this matter. To this end, we are currently exploring ways to reinvigorate the standing consultative mechanism as a forum for addressing the issues of the disputed internal boundaries through dialogue.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“However, they continue to face armed opposition and terrorist groups carrying out complex mass-casualty attacks that affect the lives of hundreds of citizen across the country. As noted in the report of the Secretary-General, they also pose significant challenges to the delivery of United Nations assistance on the ground. Let me now turn to the latest political developments. As Iraq makes further progress in regaining its rightful place in the community of nations, it is even more crucial that its leaders from all sides work collectively to overcome their differences and promote confidence and tolerance. In my consultations, in particular with Kurdish interlocutors, I have sensed a growing discontent at delays in fully implementing the Kurdish-Arab agenda.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“The United Nations has a proven track record in assisting to build up strong institutions and mechanisms for good governance, including in the fight against corruption. I am pleased that Prime Minister Al-Maliki himself has made this topic one of his Government's priorities. I look forward to building upon the work that has already been done, especially with regard to human rights and electoral and legislative support, all of which could contribute to fostering political stability in the years to come. The task ahead should not be underestimated and will require further progress on the security front. For several months now, the Iraqi security forces have assumed full control of the security of the country.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“It 11-62375 will also be an important milestone in Iraq's history as the country rebuilds and strengthens its relations with regional and international partners. Yes, there will be challenges ahead and many seem concerned by what the future may entail. However, it is above all an opportunity for all Iraqis to prove to themselves and to the world that they can build a peaceful and better future for their children, and an opportunity for all political leaders and elected official to respond to the legitimate aspirations of their constituencies and bring democracy, political stability and economic prosperity forward. UNAMI and the United Nations country team stand ready to work with the Government and redouble its efforts to consolidate the country's democratic gains and economic recovery.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“Today, I would like to focus on the following five areas: first, the significance of the withdrawal of United States forces from Iraq for the Iraqi people and the United Nations; secondly, the current political situation; thirdly, United Nations activities on the ground; fourthly, the possible impact in Iraq of events unfolding in the region and the state of affairs between Iraq and Kuwait; and last but not least, the issue of Camp Ashraf, which has monopolized much of the attention and efforts of UNAMI and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) attention over the past several months. The withdrawal of the United States forces from Iraq by the end of the year will lead to a remarkable change for the Government and the people of Iraq.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“They are covered in greater detail in the report of the Secretary-General, and include wealth distribution, power-sharing, delivery and access to basic services, strained relations between communities that have lived together in Iraq for centuries, and unresolved issues between Iraq and Kuwait.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“I have visited all UNAMI hubs in Erbil, Kirkuk and Basra to better familiarize myself with the activities of the Mission and of the United Nations country team. Finally, on 23 and 24 November I travelled to Kuwait to discuss the outstanding issues and points of common interest between Iraq and Kuwait. During that initial period, I must say that I witnessed a great number of changes and improvements, and despite many obstacles ahead there is significant degree of good will and determination to achieve further progress. Yet, I also came to realize that some of the pressing challenges of yesterday remain the same today.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“Let me begin by condemning in the strongest possible terms yesterday's terrorist attack on Ashura pilgrims, which killed dozens and injured many more. My condolences go to the families of the victims. Iraqi religious and ethnic diversity is the ultimate strength of the country. That diversity is at the heart of the country's efforts to establish a peaceful, prosperous and all-inclusive society. It has been almost two months since I took up my assignment in Iraq - a country I left four years ago in a different capacity and under very different circumstances. Since my arrival, I have met with many Arab and Kurdish political and religious leaders, including in Najaf, to take the pulse of the country.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source
“Mr. Kobler: It is a great pleasure and an honour for me to be here today. I would like to thank you, Sir, for having invited me to introduce the report of the Secretary-General (S/2011/736) on the activities of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) and to brief the Council on the latest developments in that country. I am also grateful for the Secretary-General's decision, with your support, to entrust me with the responsibility of leading the activities of the United Nations in Iraq at a particularly historic moment. Like my predecessors, I look forward to fulfilling the mandate this Council has entrusted to UNAMI, in close cooperation with the Iraqi authorities. In that regard, I would like to express my deep and sincere appreciation to Iraqi leaders for their warm and cordial welcome and interaction thus far.”
2011-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6675 (2011) · source