YouSaid · the spoken record

Kubiš

lines on the record

502

first

2003-04-11

most recent

2021-11-24

sittings or episodes

34

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

1. “Deep disagreements between the major political parties of the region, however, threaten that. I have engaged Kurdish interlocutors extensively, encouraging them to swiftly reach a compromise solution, based on an inclusive political dialogue and democratic principles, to remain united for the critical task of fighting ISIL. Concerning Baghdad-Erbil relations, it is imperative that differences over the December 2014 oil- and revenue-sharing agreement be quickly resolved through dialogue. UNAMI is ready to support this.”

   2015-11-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7556 (2015) · source

2. “The stabilization of Tikrit has been a success, as nearly its entire displaced population-some 155,000 peopl-has returned home. Now, four governorates - Anbar, Diyala, Salah al-Din and Ninewa - have asked for additional assistance from the Funding Facility. The United Nations family in Iraq is ready to respond positively. As often is the case, funding is the problem. In areas reclaimed from ISIL, the Government must continue to make every effort to ensure that good governance and the rule of law are restored as quickly as possible. UNAMI is actively engaging with the respective authorities on that issue, as well as with the leadership of the popular mobilization forces. The Kurdistan Region of Iraq has long been a source of stability and development in Iraq.”

   2015-11-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7556 (2015) · source

3. “The Government, the Council of Representatives and the political forces should not lose sight ofthe need to proceed with the Government's national reconciliation programme, including priority legislation to promote a genuine, inclusive Iraqi political system based on equal rights for all Iraqis and to counter sectarianism and the radical ideology of the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). Progress on the Syrian file towards a political solution would also have a critical positive impact on national reconciliation in Iraq. The stabilization efforts led by the central and local authorities and supported by the United Nations Development Programme Funding Facility for Immediate Stabilization are progressing.”

   2015-11-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7556 (2015) · source

4. “The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) has continued its efforts to promote inclusive national reconciliation among the leaders of all Iraqi components and political groups, civil society and local communities, and neighbouring countries, in support of and coordination with the Government of Iraq. UNAMI stands ready to assist all efforts to promote an inclusive reconciliation process that upholds respect for Iraq's unity, sovereignty and constitutional order. There is a vital need to show political will, ownership and a commitment to historic compromise and national reconciliation, regardless of opposite views and political risk, to capitalize on signals from some Sunni leaders and groups outside of the political process that they are ready to join it.”

   2015-11-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7556 (2015) · source

5. “I have stressed to the Prime Minister and other political forces the need for openness, partnership, inclusiveness and broad consultations in decision-making to work in unity and to promote effective governance. Intensified political confrontation is the last thing the country needs at this point of time. In the wake of the steep drop in global oil prices, Iraq's fiscal crisis and growing budget deficit are of increasing concern and highlight the need for urgent economic reform in the country. I urge the Government, as well as its foreign partners, including international and regional financial institutions, to undertake urgent measures to address the pressing economic and budgetary challenges.”

   2015-11-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7556 (2015) · source

6. “Since taking office, the Prime Minister has been struggling to exercise his authority while his opponents grow bolder. Meanwhile, the scope and impact of the reforms have not met public expectations. Despite hopes that he would be able to move national reconciliation forward and bring the broader Sunni community into the political process, the Prime Minister's efforts have been obstructed by elements within all Iraqi components, the main reasons being lack of trust and vested interests. Yet, the majority of Iraqis believe that Prime Minister Al Abadi remains their best hope for a better, united, less sectarian and prosperous Iraq, and they support him. The Prime Minister has so far retained sustained political backing from the highly influential Grand Ayatollah Al-Sistani and the Marja'iya.”

   2015-11-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7556 (2015) · source

7. “Mr. Kubis: September 2015 marked one year in office of the Government led by Prime Minister Haider Al Abadi. The Prime Minister continues to actively lead efforts to fulfil the Government's programme and his reform agenda, even as the scope and complexity of Iraq's security, political, social, budgetary and humanitarian challenges increase. At the same time, the Prime Minister faces immense challenges to implementing his planned reforms, primarily due to disagreements and political polarization among political forces. Last week, the Council of Representatives unanimously voted to bar the Government from enacting key reforms that would infringe on the separation of powers between the three branches of Government and the Constitution.”

   2015-11-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7556 (2015) · source

8. “At this critical juncture, the Government of Iraq, its leadership and, most of all, Iraqis themselves need continuous and massive support and assistance from the international community.”

   2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

9. “From the lessons learned over the years from the implementation of UNAMI's mandate and through a consultative process, the Secretary-General has spelled out his recommendations on where emphasis should lie with respect to future UNAMI and United Nations country team mandates and activities. The Council's decision later this month on our mandate will provide clear guidance and establish a refocused political framework for the United Nations, including UNAMI. With the continued support of the Council, I remain confident that we can and we will work hand in hand with the Government of Iraq, political forces and civil society to achieve results in all areas, while in paraticular increasingly mobilizing regional support and cooperation.”

   2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

10. “I intend to visit Kuwait to discuss this matter. I would now like to turn briefly to the issue of the residents of Camp Hurriya. We need to alleviate Iraq's burden. I urge all countries to consider hosting the Camp's residents or to use their influence in assisting in their relocation. I have one more reminder to make: on our United Nations national staff member taken hostage. In his report, the Secretary-General urges the Iraqi authorities to redouble efforts to secure his release. I strongly support his appeal. We should remember that 88 days have already elapsed without having received any credible information about our colleague, with no positive resolution of the case.”

    2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

11. “We are encouraging the Government to take all the necessary steps to guarantee their safety by exerting further pressure on armed elements temporarily controlling liberated areas in order to prevent occasional revenge attacks and other violations committed against IDPs and establish effective local control over security. Permit me now to turn to the seventh report of the Secretary-General pursuant to paragraph 4 of resolution 2107 (2013) (S/2015/518), on the issue ofmissing Kuwaiti and third-party persons and property. Iraq-Kuwait relations are on the ascendant. Iraqi leaders and the United Nations have noted with gratitude the generous donation of $200 million for the needs of IDPs. There is much goodwill between the two sides, which can only grow if tangible results are achieved on the issue of the missing Kuwaiti persons and property.”

    2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

12. “We are very worried by reports that communities and families are being forced to look to ISIL for life-saving assistance, even as United Nations-sponsored programmes are closing for lack of funding. At the same time, internally displacedpersons (IDPs) in increasing numbers are starting to return to liberated areas. The stabilization efforts led by the Government with the support of the United Nations family using the United Nations Development Programme Funding Facility for Immediate Stabilization are commendable, but much more remains to be done to ensure that returns are voluntary, sustainable and dignified and that conditions are in place for people to be able to go out once they return to their homes.”

    2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

13. “The Government is continuing to lead the operation, providing resources for cash stipends, distributing assistance and helping to erect camps for populations fleeing violence. Humanitarian partners are working around the clock to provide assistance, but funds are running short. Close to 80 health facilities will be closing in the weeks ahead unless support is received. Food rations have already been cut and scores oflife-saving programmes are scheduled to shut down. The implications of this situation are enormous and profoundly worrying. I thank the donor community for its pledges in response to the recent humanitarian response plan launched in cooperation with the European Union in Brussels on 4 June, but I urge the international community to do more to help desperately vulnerable Iraqi communities.”

    2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

14. “Taking action to ensure the protection of diverse ethnic and religious minority communities and their full and equal participation in the economic, social and political life of Iraq will be challenging, but such action is required of the Government if the future cohesion of Iraq is to be assured. The humanitarian situation is of the gravest concern. At least 8.2 million, roughly one in four Iraqis, need urgent assistance, and half of them need food assistance. More than 3 million people are internally displaced, and partners estimate that nearly 1 million more are likely to be displaced by continuing conflict and Violence in the months ahead. Close to 300,000 refugees, mostly from Syria, have sought safety in the country.”

    2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

15. “These Violations and abuses have undermined trust among communities and eroded national identity. Exacerbating this sense of injustice are actions taken in the current phase of the conflict by ISIL and by some armed groups fighting against it, which aim at or result in forced demographic changes and the targeting of communities considered to be undesirable. To restore trust and to rebuild unity among the various communities that form the Iraqi people, it is necessary to ensure justice and accountability for violations and abuses, whenever they have taken place and by whomever they were perpetrated, and to eliminate discrimination and marginalization wherever it occurs.”

    2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

16. “UNAMI continues to receive widespread reports of attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, extrajudicial killings, abductions, rape and other forms of sexual violence, forced recruitment of children, wanton destruction and looting of civilian property, and denial of fundamental rights and freedoms. Minorities, women and children continue to be particularly vulnerable to the horrors and indignities inflicted by ISIL. The recent terrorist outrage during the Bid holidays near a Shiite mosque in Khan Bani Saad, in which over 120 civilians were reported killed and some 170 injured, bears further witness to this tragic fact. Iraq is a mosaic of different ethnic and religious communities. Each component of the Iraqi people has suffered from a range of violations and abuses perpetrated at various times over recent decades.”

    2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

17. “In the reporting period, the military offensives of the Iraqi security forces, with the critical support of the popular mobilization forces, tribal Sunni volunteers and the international coalition, have yet to significantly change the situation on the ground. Tikrit was liberated in March, but Ramadi fell in May. The Government's ongoing offensive in Anbar aims to reverse this setback. The human cost of the conflict remains far too high. Since I last briefed the Council, UNAMI recorded a minimum of 1,200 civilians killed and more than 2,000 wounded as a result of armed conflict or terror attacks.”

    2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

18. “Iraq and its people do not have the luxury of time. Effective partnership between Baghdad and Erbil is equally critical to Iraq's unity and stability in fighting ISIL. In the recent period, the two sides have increasingly expressed disappointment with the implementation of the oil and revenue-sharing agreement signed last year. The period was also marked by the taking of some unilateral steps that work against the interests of both sides and the country as a whole. Both sides urgently need to renegotiate the deal and reach a truly sustainable and comprehensive agreement. UNAMI supports any option that will provide for such sustainability, reinforce confidence and partnership among the two sides, and keep them united in fighting ISIL. One year after the fall of Mosul, a third of Iraq remains under the control and governance of ISIL.”

    2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

19. “In this regard, institutional and legislative reforms remain key to preserving Iraq's unity, encouraging political reconciliation and defeating ISIL. Regrettably, the absence of consensus has halted the reform process. The national reconciliation legislative package, which includes key bills such as the national guard, the general amnesty and the justice and accountability laws, has seen limited progress since my previous briefing to the Council. All three bills are currently before the Council of Representatives, but progress has been stalled due to lack of trust between Iraqi communities and the absence of the necessary political will. I have informed my interlocutors in Parliament and in the Government that painful compromises are needed to ensure that these bills are passed instead of being returned to the Council of Ministers.”

    2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

20. “Several plans and blueprints have emerged recently, promoted by key leaders and political forces. Also, the national reconciliation commission has developed an action plan, an initiative owned and led by the Government. The so-called Baghdad document is currently being widely consulted and will benefit from inputs from all Iraqi components, allowing for further ownership of and inclusion in the process. This could provide a starting point for further consultations, including with different opposition groups. The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) supports these processes. This development is most welcome, although political compromises are urgently needed to accelerate the implementation of the national political agreement and ministerial programme.”

    2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

21. “The Government has achieved many successes and deserves our acknowledgement and support. Prime Minister Al Abadi is seeking actively to fulfil the promises of the Government's programme, but has not always met with success. The political forces that have backed the Government and its programme often cooperate reluctantly, as if the existential threat posed by ISIL and the economic and social difficulties were already a thing of the past. The unity behind the creation of the current Government has not yet fully been translated into unity of purpose or action. There are signs ofa growing understanding, though, that the time has come for comprehensive political agreements, particularly for, as some leaders have described it, a historic national reconciliation.”

    2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

22. “Mr. Kubis: During my first briefing to the Council (see S/PV.7443), last May, I conveyed my initial impressions as mixed but cautiously positive. Two months later, my initial impressions remain valid, although I increasingly appreciate the scope, depth and complexity of the problems and challenges. Since last summer's onslaught by terrorists of the so-called Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), Iraq has been living through one of the most difficult phases in its modern history. While the problems may seem daunting and persistent, there is hope, and there are opportunities and, notably, a vision for the way out of the crisis, as expressed in the national political agreement. The real issue is its implementation. Iraq's political process is moving forward, but without the neededvigour.”

    2015-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7489 (2015) · source

23. “The plight of Iraq and its people is unjustly and unjustifiably overshadowed by other developments in the region, at a time when more support is needed to counter and degrade the terrorist group Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant and to work for the unity of Iraq based on balancing the rights and interests of its components. Yet opportunities exist as well. Continuous, long-term and adequate political, financial and material support for Iraq, its Government and its people by the international community, and notably by the countries of the region, is needed to turn those opportunities into reality for the benefit of Iraq, the region and beyond.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

24. “With regard to the question of missing Kuwaiti property, including the national archives, Iraq has found and turned over some objects such as books and artefacts belonging to Kuwait, a move that is sincerely appreciated. However, the issue of the archives remains one that is difficult to understand. Again, Government commitment must be urgently translated into action. To sum up, my first impressions after just several weeks in Iraq are mixed, but with a positive perspective. The complexities and complications are enormous, as are the constraints and risks. Progress is slow, regardless of a clear vision on the part of the Government and the political resolve of the Prime Minister.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

25. “The Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Valerie Amos, will speak on this matter, and I fully support her analysis and appeal, while commending the work of the humanitarian community. Allow me to turn to the sixth report of the Secretary- General pursuant to paragraph 4 of resolution 2107 (2013) (S/2015/298), on the issue of missing Kuwaiti and third-party persons and property. On 26 April, I visited Kuwait on my first regional visit, and I had to conclude that we run the risk that future generations will continue to carry this burden unless progress is made after so many years without tangible results, notably on missing persons. The respective Iraqi authorities are called upon to urgently take practical steps that will move this caseload forward. UNAMI will continue to assist.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

26. “The unpredictable and unstable security situation and violence continue to take a terrible toll on the men, women and children of all Iraq's communities. From June last year until the end of April 2015, over 44,000 civilian casualties have been reported, including at least 15,219 killed and 29,493 wounded. The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) was also affected when, on 26 April, a UNAMI national staff member was abducted by unidentified gunmen in Baquba, in Diyala governorate. The United Nations is increasingly concerned by the lack of progress on this issue, and strongly urges the respective authorities of Iraq to ensure his swift release. The humanitarian consequences of the conflict are enormous.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

27. “Currently, it contributes in a major way to the fight against ISIL and hosts over 1 million IDPs within its own estimated population of above 5 million people. Prime Minister Al Abadi's determination to strengthen Iraq's regional ties with its regional partners in mobilizing their support for Iraq and in the promotion of a common regional approach to the regional and global threat of ISIL has been received positively by Iraq's neighbours. During my recent visit to Kuwait and Jordan, I heard a clear message that a united, peaceful and stable Iraq would make for a stable and prosperous region - a message of support for the Government of Iraq and of readiness to coordinate closely with it in all areas.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

28. “All of these messages were echoed in my meetings with the leadership of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. As the implementation of the December 2014 joint agreement on energy exports and revenue-sharing takes hold, so the relations between both sides strengthen. Prime Minister Al Abadi's visit to ErbiI on 6 April was a clear expression of this goodwill to cooperate. I encourage both sides to continue working together towards resolving open issues and towards the enactment of the legislation that will be necessary to secure the sustainable management and fair distribution of Iraq's natural resources. And let us not forget that the Kurdistan Region of Iraq also needs international support.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

29. “Parliament is finalizing legislation to restore balanced representation in Iraq's institutions. The national guard law is under discussion. I urge Iraq's political leaders to work together to find consensus, while the Government and Parliament of Iraq need to take the steps necessary to accelerate the adoption and enactment of these laws. I therefore welcome the extension of Parliament's session. These efforts towards political dialogue must also be accompanied by efforts to promote reconciliation at the community level. Religious leaders, scholars and community, tribal and political leaders alike must promote the principles of non-violence, religious tolerance, inclusiveness and forgiveness, as well as accountability for crimes committed.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

30. “Lack of support, however, might eventually mar the existing opportunities to make Iraq successful in its fight against terrorism and to make it an example for other parts of the region and beyond, contrary to some trends prevailing elsewhere. Without such support, this fragile chance might disappear. Political processes and national reconciliation efforts are essential to overcoming the underlying challenges facing Iraq and its unity, and to creating sustainable solutions for the peaceful coexistence, cooperation and development of Iraq's diverse components. As such, more vigorous and productive efforts on the part of the Government and the political forces to adopt priority legislation that will aid national reconciliation efforts are needed. A draft amnesty law is with the Prime Minister.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

31. “Withdrawing resources from other areas of the country to meet these stabilization needs would put additional pressure on the already heavily impacted areas from the IDPs' influx and beyond. I strongly urge Security Council members and the whole international community to support the Iraqi Government's efforts and to provide funding for the multitude of needs. Despite being a middle-income country, Iraq is temporarily unable to cope alone with the challenges of the security and humanitarian crisis and the stabilization and rehabilitation efforts. Unfortunately, however critical the urgency of continuous and massive support for Iraq may be, the international community's response has been grossly insufficient, as if the existence of other old and new crises were enough to excuse a waning attention to the plight of Iraq and its people.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

32. “In addition, the Government needs, in coordination with the local authorities, to restore public services and rebuild basic infrastructure as soon as possible so as to facilitate the return of the displaced. Worryingly, however, Prime Minister Al Abadi has underscored to me his Government's great difficulties in responding to these urgent stabilization needs, in addition to meeting the massive humanitarian needs. The Government faces serious constraints in terms of funds and material for stabilization and rehabilitation. The liberated areas are in urgent need of clearance from explosive remnants of war. I hope in particular to see the United Nations Mine Action Service return in force to Iraq, and that cannot happen without donors' support.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

33. “If any military gains are to be sustainable, the Government of Iraq must also restore the confidence of disaffected communities that they will assume a share in governing their own affairs and in the State's ability to ensure their protection from violence, deliver justice and create conditions for their fair participation in society. Until the majority of IDPs conclude that conditions for the safe and sustainable return of civilians have been created, such returns will not happen. And one of the consequences might be the continuation of involuntary demographic changes, including in the disputed territories between Baghdad and Erbil. As a priority, the Government needs to urgently continue taking measures to restore civilian responsibility for security and the rule of law in the liberated areas.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

34. “I also welcome the determination of the Government of Iraq to exert firm control over all elements taking part in liberation operations across Iraq and to hold to account those who have committed crimes, as indeed some opportunistic and criminal elements continue to engage in atrocities, revenge killings, looting, expropriation and the destruction of property of the local population and returning of IDPs. I applaud both Prime Minister Al Abadi and His Eminence Grand Ayatollah al-Sistani, who have taken a firm stance against such transgressions. In the majority of my meetings with Iraq's political representatives, I have heard one message - a military solution alone will not be enough to defeat ISIL.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

35. “It is important that local fighters and authorities be properly empowered to take their share of responsibility for the liberation from ISIL and for holding and governing their areas. The Government's efforts to provide the necessary financial and material support to tribesmen and local authorities need to be expedited. All of that, and notably military supplies and assistance, must be coordinated with and sanctioned by the respective authorities of the State. In that regard, I welcome the recent establishment of a Government committee to oversee the implementation of support.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

36. “However, ISIL is far from being defeated and Government gains remain at times fragile. The ability to liberate a city or a territory does not necessarily mean an ability to hold it. Vast areas of Iraq and millions of Iraqis remain under the control and influence of ISIL, which continues to perpetrate horrendous crimes and human rights violations against the Iraqi people, in particular women, children and minorities. ISIL recently added to its crimes the barbaric destruction of Iraq's cultural and historical heritage in another attempt to destroy its national identity. Many areas not under ISIL control, including Baghdad, have been rocked by violence, terrorist and sectarian. Particularly appalling is violence against internally displaced persons (IDPs), who are increasingly targeted and criminalized.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

37. “While major differences of opinion and approaches exist, there is a general consensus that in order to successfully counter Iraq's common enemy, the so-called Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), unity and cooperation among all components of the Iraq society are needed, and that the way forward is to accelerate the implementation of the Government's ministerial programme and the national political agreement to start a process of national reconciliation. The Iraqi security forces, together with the Peshmerga, patriots of the popular mobilization forces and Sunni tribal volunteers, supported by the international coalition and countries of the region, are making advances and liberating territory from ISIL. I salute their bravery and commitment. They are saviours of Iraq.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

38. “Mr. Kubis: Since I arrived in Baghdad at the end of March, I have endeavoured to meet as broad a range of Iraq's political, community and religious leaders as possible, to hear their views on how Iraq and its different components can overcome the challenges and threats the country faces, and to set a steady course towards unity, cooperation, reconciliation, stability and development.”

    2015-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7443 (2015) · source

39. “I especially remember my close adviser, Vadim Nazarov, and others who have paid with their lives. The aim of all our work and that which keeps us committed in an often challenging, difficult and dangerous environment is to support the aspirations of the Afghan people for a more prosperous and secure future in a stable and united Afghanistan. It is those wishes that must be foremost at this critical juncture.”

    2014-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7267 (2014) · source

40. “It has been a challenging time to be in Afghanistan, but it has been my privilege to serve. The confidence placed in the United Nations by all parties, domestic and international, even in the midst of current events and in thinking about future peace efforts, has been inspiring. Going forward, the United Nations will continue to have an important role to play in both Afghanistan and the broader region. I would like to thank all of the members of the Council for the support and guidance provided to me, as well as by other Member States and international partners, since I started in January 2012. I also want to recognize my colleagues from the United Nations, in particular from the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, for their hard work, robust counsel and genuine commitment.”

    2014-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7267 (2014) · source

41. “Enhancing economic, infrastructure and security ties within the neighbourhood will be critical for Afghanistan's future sustainability and stability in a stable and prosperous region. I welcome the strong lead that China has shown in its preparations for the Tianjin Conference on the Istanbul Process/Heart of Asia initiatiave. One of Afghanistan's most important and challenging relationships is with Pakistan. Under a new administration a reset may be possible in moving forward on the shared challenges of border management, economic development and counter-terrorism. A new administration may also be a chance to breathe fresh life into Afghan-led reconciliation efforts, for which the United Nations stands ready to assist. This will be my last meeting here as Head of the Mission.”

    2014-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7267 (2014) · source

42. “Yet it is longer-term economic and governance reforms that will be vital to improving revenues and addressing the increasing fiscal gap. In reframing and refreshing the Tokyo Mutual Accountability Framework ahead of the London ministerial conference planned for November, the robust engagement of the new administration will be central to ensuring clear Afghan priorities and direction. I would urge a greater focus on a pro-poor, rights-based agenda, including policies that address a burgeoning and largely untaught youth population. Mainstreaming efforts to undercut the ever-expanding narcotics economy will also be vital, including through intensified regional efforts. Throughout my tenure I have placed particular emphasis on promoting regional cooperation centred on Afghanistan.”

    2014-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7267 (2014) · source

43. “The confirmation of the intent to provide ongoing support for Afghan security institutions at the NATO Summit in Wales was most welcome. With the conclusion of the International Security Assistance Force mission at the end of this year, I would also like to take this opportunity to recognize all of the nations that have contributed, as well as to pay my respects to those individuals who have been wounded and to the families of those killed. The prolonged deadlock has also contributed to economic stagnation in Afghanistan, with a dramatic drop in Government revenues. A new administration will need to undertake urgent action to avert a cash crisis and ensure the continued smooth functioning of Government. That will require emergency support from donors.”

    2014-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7267 (2014) · source

44. “With ground engagement emerging as the leading cause of civilian casualties, civilians continue to bear the brunt of the conflict. In the first eight months of 2014, civilian casualties rose by 15 per cent as compared with the same period in 2013, with 2,312 killed and 4,533 injured. Overall, 16 per cent more women and 24 per cent more children were killed and injured owing to armed conflict than during the same period in 2013. Afghan police and army personnel are responding courageously, and I honour all the brave Afghans killed or wounded in the service of their country. Afghanistan's security institutions will require sustained support. A new administration will need to rapidly conclude mutually agreed legal frameworks to ensure the necessary planning and preparations for continuity in international assistance.”

    2014-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7267 (2014) · source

45. “Our assessment was that the audit provided a comprehensive and credible check on the electoral process, one that was unprecedented in scale, depth and scrutiny. Significant levels of fraud were detected and eliminated. What was also confirmed was that millions of women and men had turned out to vote on 14 June in support of a peaceful, democratic transfer of power. They have eagerly waited for months for a long overdue agreement between the two leaders on establishing a Government of national unity. The serious and growing challenges that Afghanistan faces require swift agreement on, and the establishment of, such a Government. A tactical shift in the insurgency and the involvement of international terrorist groups have given rise to attempts not merely to disrupt but also to exert control over territory across the country.”

    2014-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7267 (2014) · source

46. “It was at the request of the two candidates and the Afghan authorities that the United Nations accepted a major role in support of the electoral process, even as the process itselfhas remained the responsibility of Afghan election management bodies. The United Nations accepted that role as a responsibility derived from the very core of its mandate to support conflict prevention. It was always understood that the Organization ran the risk of damaging its reputation. It was, however, a necessary risk. I want to underscore my appreciation for the massive support from across the United Nations family, especially the United Nations Development Programme and the Department for Political Affairs. With the Election Commission's final adjudication session last Sunday, the supervisory role of the United Nations came to an end.”

    2014-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7267 (2014) · source

47. “If there is no agreement by the time of the certification of the results, new dynamics will be set in motion with the potential to trigger further uncertainty, even the risk of conflict. The time remaining is now short, and by that I mean one or two days. A legitimate, broadly accepted political transition is needed in order to provide a robust mandate for tackling the country's many challenges, which include a burgeoning insurgency, a looming cash crunch and an expanding illicit economy, in particular one powered by narcotics. Finally, it is vital to ensure that the international community has a credible partner for sustained commitments of assistance in what remains one of the most aid-dependent countries in the world.”

    2014-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7267 (2014) · source

48. “There is quite simply no better way forward than a Government of national unity led by an elected President as certified by the Independent Election Commission, working in partnership with the new Chief Executive Officer. All other options are either accompanied by heavy risks or undermine the country's constitutional framework. Both candidates have previously committed to the concept of such an administration and to abiding by the election results, subject to an audit process. Agreeing on the modalities for such an administration has proved more difficult. The remaining sticking points include how best to communicate the results when supporters on both sides genuinely believe that it is their candidate who won and will accept no other result, regardless of the audit.”

    2014-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7267 (2014) · source

49. “Mr. Kubis: The Security Council is meeting today with the results of Afghanistan's presidential elections due to be announced within days but with no political agreement yet in place on a Government of national unity. Discussions in recent weeks stretching long into the night have brought the teams of Mr. Abdullah Abdullah and Mr. Ghani Ahmadzai close, but some vital issues still have to be bridged. The protracted deadlock deepens a crisis that has already taken a heavy political, security and economic toll on Afghanistan. That is the reason that I am once again briefing the Security Council from Kabul, where my presence has been requested in support of efforts to achieve a final breakthrough.”

    2014-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7267 (2014) · source

50. “I sincerely hope that the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan, observed in a spirit of compassion, can in its own way through contemplation and prayers, help pave the way for a peaceful and prosperous future for a stable and united Afghanistan. To my respected colleague Ambassador Tanin, members of the Security Council and all peace-loving people, I address the traditional congratulations, Ramadan Mubarak.”

    2014-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7208 (2014) · source