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2014-01-20
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2014-12-16
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un-security-council

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  1. SADC took the lead in mediating a solution and appointed the former President of Mozambique, His Excellency Mr. Joaquim Chissano, to try to mediate a political solution, a process that led to the holding of free and fair elections in Madagascar. This year, SADC further resolved several months of political stalemate in Lesotho. The mediation efforts were led by South African Deputy President, His Excellency Mr. Cyril Ramaphosa, on behalf of SADC. In conclusion, I would like to thank regional and subregional organizations for their valuable contribution towards our shared goals of maintaining international peace and security as set out in the United Nations Charter.

    2014-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7343 (2014) · source

  2. As such, SADC member States have committed themselves to strengthening the thematic group of the international cooperating partners on peace and security by enhancing capacity for implementation, monitoring, evaluation. They have also agreed to a mutual defence pact on military intervention to resolve regional conflict in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations. In that connection, in March 1998, the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation authorized an intervention to restore democracy and the rule of law in the Kingdom of Lesotho, after the disputed parliamentary election results had ruling Lesotho Congress for Democracy Party winning overwhelming, 79 out of 80 seats, and the opposition party alleged vote fraud. In 2009, following a coup in Madagascar, the African Union suspended the country's membership.

    2014-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7343 (2014) · source

  3. Paragraph 2 of the same Article goes on to invite Member States entering into such arrangements or disputes through such regional arrangements or constituting such agencies to "make every effort to achieve pacific settlement of local disputes through such regional arrangements or by such regional agencies before referring them to the Security Council." Namibia has experience in its own region through the Southern African Development Community (SADC). In that regard, we understand implicitly the comparative advantage that regional organizations can bring to conflict prevention, peacekeeping and peacebuilding. We fully subscribe to the complementarity of the roles of regional organizations and the United Nations in containing threats to peace and security.

    2014-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7343 (2014) · source

  4. Chapter VI, Article 33, paragraph 1, provides that parties to any dispute endangering international peace and security "shall, first of all, seek a solution by negotiation, enquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, judicial settlement, resort to regional agencies or arrangements, or other peaceful means oftheir own choice." Chapter VIII, Article 52, paragraph 1, stipulates that nothing in the Charter is to preclude "the existence of regional arrangements or agencies for dealing with such matters relating to the maintenance of international peace and security as are appropriate for regional action".

    2014-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7343 (2014) · source

  5. Therefore, the Council should engage more with regional organizations so as to enable them to deal effectively international peace and security issues. Although Chapter V, Article 24, of the Charter of the United Nations clearly vests the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security with the Security Council, the Charter also provides a role for regional organizations and arrangements in the maintenance of peace and security in their respective regions.

    2014-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7343 (2014) · source

  6. Such timely intervention averted the escalation of those conflicts, which could have lead to ethnic cleansing, and has contributed immensely to the later transfer of those missions to United Nations peacekeeping operations. The United Nations has extensive experience in best practices pertaining to peacekeeping operations. We believe that experience is central to the partnership and should be conveyed to the relevant regional organizations. Furthermore, the respective roles should be based on their comparative advantages. Regional and subregional organizations have the comparative advantages of geographic proximity and a deeper understanding of the root causes of the conflict and the cultural dimensions of the local community.

    2014-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7343 (2014) · source

  7. The United Nations faces increasing challenges from the emergence of uncontrolled militias and armed civilians, the collapse of State structures and the targeting of civilians during conflicts, with the attendant humanitarian disasters, which include mass movements of people, who become internally displaced persons and refugees. The importance of the partnership between the United Nations and regional and subregional organizations can be traced to the timely intervention of the African Union in the conflicts in the Sudan, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic and, recently, in Mali.

    2014-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7343 (2014) · source

  8. Namibia also joins the other delegations in condemning the horrendous attacks on the schoolchildren in Pakistan. We believe the Security Council has a duty to take action on that matter. Today's peacekeeping activities have both increased and strained United Nations resources and capacity owing to various changes in the operations, both quantitative and qualitative. Peacekeeping operations are more complex and demanding then ever, with various factors contributing to the changing nature of peacekeeping. They include the often intra-State nature of conflicts, the lack of full consent and cooperation on the part of the parties and the breakdown of law and order.

    2014-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7343 (2014) · source

  9. I congratulate you, Sir, on your assumption of the presidency of the Security Council for this month, and would like to thank you for convening this very important debate on cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organizations in the maintenance of international peace and security. I also thank Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the Head of the African Union (AU) Mission in Mali and the Sahel, former President Pierre Buyoya, for their insightful briefings. Let me use this opportunity to also thank the non-permanent members of the Security Council during 2013-2014 for their contribution to the maintenance of a peaceful world. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by the representatiave of the Islamic Republic of Iran on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement.

    2014-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7343 (2014) · source

  10. In conclusion, while this debate is devoted to conflict prevention, it should be highlighted that the international community, working in concert and motivated by the common objective of achieving international peace, should identify the root causes of conflicts in the world with the aim of finding lasting solutions. Namibia welcomes forums like this, where we can collectively take stock and exchange views on the state of conflict prevention in the world.

    2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source

  11. Protecting humankind from the scourge of war is the principle foundation of the United Nations. Namibia believes that this noble goal can be achieved only when all Member States refrain from the use or threat of the use of force in any manner inconsistent with the purpose and principles of justice and international law. The right to self-determination, non-interference in the domestic affairs of other States, respect for human rights and respect for equal rights for all without distinction on the basis of race, language, religion or cultural or social character are obligations under the Charter that should guide State conduct at the international level.

    2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source

  12. As a member of the committee of 10, we would like to underline the fact that, in order to become more effective, the comprehensive reform of the Security Council to make it more democratic and transparent and enable it to better serve humankind has become more relevant. We note that, faced with some of the current international conflicts, the choice of action or inaction by the Security Council is based only on self-serving political considerations, which may hinder the effective implementation of its mandate. Calls for the reform of the Council in order to create harmony can never be overstated. There is no doubt that the successful prevention of conflicts depends on the skilful identification of early warning signs and preventive diplomacy, mediation, reconciliation and confidence-building measures.

    2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source

  13. It is for that reason that my delegation supports the principle of complementarity between the Security Council and regional and subregional organizations in preventing conflict and thereby maintaining peace and security. In that context, Namibia commends the cooperation agreement between the United Nations Security Council and the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council, which is aimed at enhancing and strengthening closer cooperation between the AU and the United Nations in conflict prevention and resolution in Africa. That kind of cooperation will enhance Africa's institutional capacity for conflict prevention and resolution and ensure sustainable peace on the continent. International peace and security is critical for the promotion of the rule of law. The Security Council is at the heart of that endeavour.

    2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source

  14. We believe that such an environment can be created through the promotion of the rule of law, which is essential for peace, the prevention of armed conflicts and the enhancement of cooperation among States. It is worth noting that Chapter VIII of the Charter encourages cooperation with regional bodies in efforts to prevent, manage and resolve conflicts. Furthermore, it is important to note and to recognize that regional and subregional organizations are closer to erupting situations and are not only familiar with the issues, but also understand the dynamics of the conflict in any given region. Neighbouring countries also often bear the burden and consequences of conflicts in their surroundings.

    2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source

  15. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by the representative of the Republic of Zimbabwe on behalf of the Southern African Development Community and with the statement made by the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries. While it remains the primary responsibility of the Security Council to maintain international peace and security in accordance with the Chapter I ofthe Charter of the United Nations, conflicts continue to have a negative impact on social, economic and political development, particularly in Africa. There is therefore an urgent need to create an environment conducive to peace and development.

    2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source

  16. I wish to express my sincere congratulations to the United Kingdom on its assumption of the presidency of the Security Council for the month of August. I also wish to thank you, Mr. President, for organizing this important debate, which my delegation hopes will highlight the importance of cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organizations in accordance with Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations, in support of conflict-prevention and peacebuilding activities and forging greater regional and national ownership.

    2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source

  17. Real and lasting progress towards peace and freedom for Palestine can be achieved only through the implementation of all the relevant United Nations resolutions on the peaceful settlement of the question on Palestine. In conclusion, 2014 has been proclaimed the International Year of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, in accordance with General Assembly resolution 68/12, adopted on 26 November 2013. That is a commendable milestone on the path to the momentum and political will needed to make an Israeli-Palestinian peace a reality. It therefore remains the responsibility of the United Nations and the international community to make sure that the question of Palestine is resolved in all its aspects.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  18. We are pleased to note that the State of Palestine has acceded to 15 international conventions and that its signature is expected to enter into force on 2 May. In that regard, Namibia would like to call on the Security Council to resume its consideration ofthe State of Palestine's application for full membership in the United Nations and to make a positive recommendation on that to the General Assembly. We remain convinced that our deliberations here today are fruitful and will contribute to the search for a comprehensive, just and lasting solution that can bring the Israeli occupation to an end and enable the Palestinian people to exercise their inalienable rights in an independent State of Palestine, with Jerusalem as its capital.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  19. I wish to join others in reaffirming Namibia's unwavering support for the Palestinian people in their just and legitimate struggle for self-determination and independence, and I call on the Security Council to fulfil its mandate and take appropriate action to end Israel's continuing occupation of Palestine. The international community has an obligation to ensure that the people of Palestine realize their inalienable right to self-determination and the creation of an independent, sovereign State of Palestine, on the basis of the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. We must ensure that Palestine is unconditionally admitted as a full Member of the United Nations and its agencies and takes its rightful place in the global community of nations.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  20. The international community and the bodies of the United Nations should continue to play their crucial third-party role in dissuading Israel from taking unauthorized measures and in facilitating and fostering a climate of dialogue aimed at reaching a peaceful solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, including resolving the future status of Jerusalem. The humanitarian situation of Palestinians in the city must also be addressed. A very urgent key factor for peace in the region is that Jerusalem should be put back on the political map.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  21. We further call on Israel to withdraw from all occupied Palestinian territories, cease its settlement activities and allow the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East to perform its humanitarian activities unhindered. We also call on Israel to comply with the relevant Security Council resolutions. We are deeply concerned about the statement by the Israeli Prime Minister in which he calls for suspension of the peace talks because of the reconciliation agreement reached between the Palestine Liberation Organization and Hamas.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  22. Namibia wishes to remind the Security Council that it is the collective responsibility of the entire global community to consider practical steps to address Israel's actions, particularly in East Jerusalem, since those actions constitute a sophisticated type of ethnic cleansing and another form of apartheid. We condemn any attacks against civilians in Gaza and call on all parties to adhere to the terms of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. We also call on Israel to unconditionally lift the unjust blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip, since it deprives Palestinians of the most rudimentary requirements of a decent livelihood.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  23. Namibia is increasingly concerned about reports that the situation in the Palestine territories continues to deteriorate, and that Israel continues to undermine the possibility of a two-State solution through its actions in East Jerusalem, which include pushing Arabs out of the city, maintaining the separation wall and the imposition of a restrictive building-permit regime. Israeli policies in Jerusalem not only affect its Palestinian population but pose a severe threat to the possibility of resolving the Arab-Israeli conflict by political means.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  24. I wish to thank you, Mr. President, for organizing this important debate, which affords the broader United Nations membership an opportunity to contribute to the important deliberations on the situation in the Middle East, including the question of Palestine. I also wish to thank the Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process and Personal Representative of the Secretary- General for his briefing. My delegation aligns itself with the statement made by the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries. The Palestinian people continue to suffer from injustice and oppression and are denied freedom and peace in the land of their birth, which remains under occupation by Israel.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  25. As such, we fully support the inclusion of women in security systems, such as the armed forces, the police and peacekeeping operations and special political missions in support of various United Nations resolutions that recognize that important role. We remain convinced that for the achievement of comprehensive and sustainable peace, all efforts should be made to ensure the participation and contribution of women to peace negotiations and during the execution of post-conflict strategies and programmes. In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that Namibia condemns all forms of violence against women in armed conflict and calls for the full implementation of relevant Security Council resolutions. We also urge the parties to conflicts to abide by international legal instruments to protect women and other disadvantaged groups.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  26. Sufficient resources must be devoted to women-led civil society organizations, particularly those providing services to survivors and those that enable women to access justice and participate in decision-making. We recognize the work of non-governmental organizations in their role of training officials from Member States, as investigators of gender-based violence for rapid deployment to conflict areas. Namibia supports such initiatives as they can go a long way in assisting the international community in investigating those horrible crimes by bringing the perpetrators to book. Namibia wishes to re-emphasize the importance of the role of women in conflict prevention and post- conflict peacebuilding.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  27. In most cases victims, especially women, prefer to remain silent to avoid the stigma of being ostracized from their communities, cast out by their husbands and families, and left destitute with their children. Women's empowerment and mainstreaming gender equality in peacekeeping processes and ceasefire agreements are crucial in fighting the scourge. Furthermore, survivors and their families should be provided with sufficient medical, psychological and legal support and rehabilitation programmes. Capacity-building and technical support from the international community are relevant in helping national Governments deal with sexual violence matters. Governments lack adequate national capacities to investigate sexual violence cases and prosecute sexual violence offenders, and that, regrettably, impedes on accountability.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  28. In that regard, the adoption by the General Assembly of the Arms Trade Treaty was of critical importance, as it is the first international legal instrument that explicitly includes a gender criterion in arms transfers ifthere is a possibility that such transfers, would be used to commit violence against women and children. We celebrated the first anniversary of the historic adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty on 2 April and we look forward to its entry into force. The elimination of conflict-related sexual violence would not be possible without addressing the root causes of gender inequality and changing the mindset of the perpetrators, Victims and society at large. Victims should be encouraged to speak out and report violence.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  29. While recognizing that Governments bear the primary responsibility for the safety and rights of women and the protection of all citizens in their countries, the international community should support those efforts, while fully respecting national sovereignty and focusing on capacity-building and resolving funding and technical difficulties. Furthermore, it is important to ensure that sexual violence considerations are explicitly and consistently reflected in ceasefire and peace agreements, as well as in all security sector reform, disarmament, demobilization and reintegration processes that involve the United Nations.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  30. That is so because perpetrators are left unpunished and the culture of impunity aggravates conflict cycles. Fighting sexual violence in conflict is a shared responsibility that requires a broad-based approach that involves the international community, regional and national Governments, civil societies and other stakeholders. National Governments should foster national programmes that take measures aimed at preventing and stopping the occurrence of sexual violence and prosecute perpetrators. In that regard, national stakeholders should be fully engaged in order to foster national ownership, leadership and responsibility.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  31. The report (S/2014/181) before us clearly indicates that the prevalence of sexual violence during periods of conflicts often leaves lasting legacies, with acute consequences for the security ofwomen and children in the post-conflict era and beyond. That is demonstrated by high levels of rape and other forms of sexual violence perpetrated against women and children in some post- conflict settings, which ultimately has a direct impact on the durability of peace and prospects for sustainable development. The United Nations, and in particular this body, have convened meetings to deliberate on mitigating factors that can be employed to prevent and or curb such a scourge. However, despite all efforts, the scourge still persists and continues to terrorize communities, thereby posing a serious security concern.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  32. Namibia is pleased to participate in this open debate on sexual violence in conflict under the agenda item "Women and peace and security". I wish to congratulate you, Madam President, and your country, Nigeria, on assuming the presidency ofthe Council for the month oprri12014. I also wish to thank Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, and his Special Representative Zainab Bangura for their informative statements. Sexual violence has increasingly become a grave concern and has proliferated in conflict and post- conflict situations. Women and girls are raped, forced into prostitution and sexual slavery, and subjected to various sexual acts that leave them with severe physical, psychological and emotional trauma. Their lives are shattered, their hopes are destroyed and they are left with permanent stigma.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  33. In the same vein, Africa has provided a clear definition of an unconstitutional change of Government, which includes the manipulation of electoral laws. In that regard, we urge the United Nations to work towards adopting the same principle. At the subregional level the Southern African Development Community has scrupulously observed that principle with respect to Madagascar. While the policy of opposing the unconstitutional change of Government has been upheld, a new form of the unconstitutional change of Government has emerged where army mutinies become part of the so- called inclusive Government, which have proved not to be sustainable. Namibia believes that if that situation is allowed to continue, the African Union principle of zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of Government will be undermined.

    2014-01-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7105 (2014) · source

  34. We furthermore welcome the adoption by the General Assembly of the Arms Trade Treaty, the first international legal instrument that explicitly includes a gender criterion in arms transfers ifthere is a possibility that such transfers would be used to commit violence against women and children. In conclusion, I should like to recognize the important institutional partnership between the Council and regional and subregional organizations in the maintenance of international peace and security. In Africa, for example, we have adopted a zero tolerance policy for unconstitutional changes of Government. Coup leaders are isolated and their countries are immediately suspended from the African Union.

    2014-01-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7105 (2014) · source

  35. Our experience has therefore been one where compromises have had to be made and restorative justice balanced with retributive justice as well as the granting of amnesties. The role of women in conflict prevention and post-conflict peacebuilding is of great importance. Therefore, Namibia fully supports the inclusion of women in security systems such as the armed forces, the police and peacekeeping operations and special political missions in support of various United Nations resolutions that recognize that important role. We remain convinced that, for the achievement of a comprehensive and sustainable peace, all efforts should be made to ensure the participation and contribution of women in peace negotiations and during the execution of post-conflict strategies and programmes.

    2014-01-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7105 (2014) · source

  36. Cognizant of the contemporary rhetoric that there can be no real peace without justice, the focus of reconciliation shifts to victims and retributive justice. We may also have to agree that, in the uncompromising pursuit of higher standards of justice, a peace that is delicate may not be sustainable. That is especially our experience in the southern African region, but also in many other parts of the African continent. The challenge for us has been the reintegration of former combatants into mainstream society while at the same time bringing a sense ofjustice to the victims and defending the principles of the rule of law without provoking a destabilizing backlash, especially in situations where political stability has been fragile.

    2014-01-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7105 (2014) · source

  37. We therefore welcome the establishment of institutions such as the Peacebuilding Commission, which can go a long way to addressing the challenges that are associated with national reconciliation due to the diversity of the actors. In that regard, we wish to caution that there is no single model that is applicable to reconciliation at the national level. Therefore, a one-size-fits-all approach to national reconciliation is counter-productive. What works in one situation may not be applicable to another given the national and, to a certain extent regional, the dynamics of a particular situation. In Namibia, for example, at our independence we adopted a policy of national reconciliation that gave blanket amnesties to both sides. That policy has served us well, and the country enjoys peace, stability and democracy.

    2014-01-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7105 (2014) · source

  38. As many delegations that have already spoken have said, there is universal recognition that the United Nations has a major role to play not only in the immediate aftermath of the resolution of conflicts but also in conceiving and conducting long-term post- conflict initiatives. Those have included demobilization, disarmament and reintegration, thereby strengthening judicial systems and, as in our own case, the training of civil servants to provide services during the transitional period and the post-conflict era. Therefore, beyond conflict resolution and stabilization, the path must be charted for democracy, development and the strengthening of the rule of law. We are of the opinion that more attention should be given to the United Nations role in post-conflict reconciliation.

    2014-01-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7105 (2014) · source

  39. The Namibian nation was founded in 1990, after a bitter liberation struggle during which our people were subjected to numerous massacres. As such, our history is one replete with systematic human rights abuses. We achieved our independence with the active support and engagement of the international community. We are proud to be known as one of the success stories of United Nations peacekeeping and peacebuilding initiatives. Article 96 of the Namibian Constitution commits the country and its people to the promotion of international peace and security. For that reason, Namibia participates in various peacekeeping missions throughout the world as mandated by the Council.

    2014-01-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7105 (2014) · source

  40. Once again, I wish to congratulate you, Sir, on your country's assumption of the presidency of the Security Council for the month of January 2014, and further wish to thank you for organizing this very important debate, considering that heinous atrocities are committed on a daily basis throughout the world, posing a threat to the very existence of the social democratic order that we as the international community have developed over the years, a debate that seeks to draw lessons from an understanding of war in the quest to achieve lasting and sustainable peace. I also wish to thank Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs Jeffrey Feltman for his informative briefing on the role of the United Nations in promoting sustainable peace, and in particular the lessons learned and the challenges that remain in post-conflict situations.

    2014-01-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7105 (2014) · source

  41. Let me reiterate Namibia's strong support for the ongoing peace process and our appeal to both parties to commit themselves to and embrace this opportunity by abiding by their previous agreements and obligations concerning lasting peace between the Israelis and the Palestinians, living side by side. Let me conclude by further reiterating Namibia's unwavering support for and solidarity with the people of Palestine in theirjust cause for freedom, independence and social justice, and Namibia's steadfast support for the full membership of Palestine in the United Nations and its specialized agencies.

    2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source

  42. Namibia continues to believe that a real and lasting solution leading to the freedom of Palestine can be realized only through the implementation of all relevant resolutions ofthe United Nations regarding the peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine, and that peace in the Middle East can be achieved only by addressing the illegal occupation of the Palestinian territories by Israel, the creation of the Palestinian State, ending all conflicts and bringing lasting peace and security to Palestinians and Israelis alike and to the wider region.

    2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source

  43. It is incomprehensible that the question of Palestine remains a permanent agenda item on the Council's programme of work, considering that the General Assembly, the most representative organ of the United Nations, adopted a historic decision in 2012 by according Palestine non-member observer State status in the United Nations. We remain hopeful that this decision will constitute an important step towards the eventual accession of Palestine to the United Nations as a full Member State. It is therefore important for the Council to respect the wish of the international community by considering and approving, without further delay, the request made by Palestine for recognition as a full- fledged Member State, taking its rightful place among the community of nations.

    2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source

  44. In that context, Namibia welcomes the proclamation by the General Assembly of the year 2014 as the International Year of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, in accordance with resolution 68/12 of 26 November 2013. We are hopeful that the observance of this year as the International Year of Solidarity with the Palestinian People will help bring an end to the illegal occupation of Palestinian territories and the achievement of the independence of the State of Palestine, with full sovereignty and East Jerusalem as its capital. We wish to remind the Council of its obligations to furthering the just cause of the People of Palestine by adopting practical measures to end Israeli abuses and illegal policies against the Palestinian people.

    2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source

  45. Namibia believes that Israel's continuing flagrant contempt for international law demands urgent attention and responsible action by the international community, with a view to compelling the occupying Power to end all such grave breaches and salvaging the prospects for a peaceful solution in the Middle East region. As a country that experienced similar illegal occupation by the South African apartheid regime, Namibia continues to persistently extend its steadfast support for the Palestinian people in pursuit of their inalienable right to self-determination, independence and freedom. We will remain committed to that noble course.

    2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source

  46. Of great concern to my delegation is the increasing number of Israeli settlements, which is based on an illegal colonizing policy that has resulted in the blockade of the Gaza Strip, restricted access for much- needed goods, humanitarian aid, medical supplies and fuel. The sustained Israeli occupation severely affects the socioeconomic well-being of the Palestinians, which is a flagrant denial of their right to self-determination and of their exercise of their fundamental human rights as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations.

    2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source

  47. My delegation aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the Permanent Representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. We remain convinced that the main political problem in the Middle East is the systematic aggression by Israel against Palestine. That continues to pose a threat to peace and security in the region. Namibia remains concerned about the critical situation and the continued illegal Israeli settlement campaign in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, which continues to gravely undermine the integrity of the State of Palestine and threatens to make impossible the achievement of the two-State solution for peace on the basis of the pre-l967 borders.

    2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source

  48. I wish to congratulate you, Sir, on your country's election to serve on the Security Council for the period 2014 to 2015, and upon your assumption of the presidency of the Council for the month of January 2014. Equally, I wish to thank you for having organized this first open debate of 2014 on the Middle East, which affords the wider membership an opportunity to participate in these important deliberations. As 2014 has been declared the International Year of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, we look forward to participating in similar forums aiming to resolve the fragile security situation in the Middle East, in particular the question of Palestine. At the same time, I wish to congratulate the newly elected members of the Security Council and to extend my delegation's support to them during their tenure on this body.

    2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source