YouSaid · the spoken record

Pedersen

lines on the record: 597
first: 2012-10-15
most recent: 2023-12-21
sittings or episodes: 54
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

“At the same time, Member States and the relevant international organizations and bodies should encourage individuals or entities that seek removal from the Al-Qaida sanctions list to challenge their listing by first petitioning the Office of the Ombudsperson before the case is brought up at the national or regional level. Secondly, we propose to start reflecting on how to improve due-process guarantees in other targeted- sanctions regimes. We once again submit the idea that the Ombudsperson's process should be gradually extended, on a case by case basis, to other appropriate sanctions regimes. In so doing, the need for possible adaptations in the Ombudsperson's mandate should be explored.”
2014-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7285Resumption1 (2014) · source
“In the course of the review, a reasoned decision for a continued designation should be provided, if the individual or entity is to be kept on the list. If a listing is not reviewed and confirmed within the three-year period, it should automatically be deleted. Besides those four proposals for the immediate future, the group of like-minded States would also like to submit a few ideas for the longer term aimed at ensuring that targeted-sanctions regimes satisfy basic due-process guarantees and are in conformity with internationally recognized human rights standards. First, we recommend that the Ombudsperson be given the authority to decide, after having examined a request for a delisting, whether to maintain or discontinue the listing.”
2014-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7285Resumption1 (2014) · source
“All decisions, regardless of whether they maintain or discontinue a listing of an individual or entity, should be accompanied by adequate and substantial reasons Moreover, those reasons, as well as a redacted version of the comprehensive report of the Ombudsperson, should be published, allowing for legitimate privacy, security and confidentiality interests to be adequately protected. We welcome the steps taken in resolution 2161 (2014) as far as the provision of reasons for delisting and retention as well as the transparency ofthe process are concerned and encourage the Council to consider further steps in that regard. Fourthly, the Committee must continue to conduct the triennial review in a timely and thorough manner and regularly inform Member States about the results of all reviews provided for under resolution 2161 (2014).”
2014-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7285Resumption1 (2014) · source
“In order to further strengthen the effectiveness and due process guarantees of the United Nations sanctions regimes, the group of like-minded States on targeted sanctions re-invites the Security Council and Member States to consider the following proposals and ideas, which were submitted in writing on 17 April 2014. First, the Office of the Ombudsperson should be made permanent. That will give more weight and credibility to the work of the Ombudsperson. Secondly, information-sharing between Member States and the Ombudsperson, as well as among the Sanctions Committee and Member States, national and regional courts and other authorities, should be improved. Thirdly, transparency should be enhanced.”
2014-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7285Resumption1 (2014) · source
“As my contribution to enhancing the working methods of the Security Council, I will not read out my full statement, but it will be circulated. Norway aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representative of Sweden on behalf of the Nordic countries and by the representative of Switzerland on behalf of the Accountability, Coherence and Transparency (ACT) group. I have the honour to speak on behalf of the informal group of like-minded States on targeted sanctions, which comprises Austria, Belgium, Costa Rica, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Liechtenstein, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland.”
2014-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7285Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Norway is doing its part in the fight against violent extremism and terrorism, including through active support for the international humanitarian and military efforts in Iraq.”
2014-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7281 (2014) · source
“In the face of brutal and criminal acts by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant and other terrorist groups, the international community must unite against the threat they pose. At the same time, it is necessary to reach political solutions in both Iraq and Syria. Those conflicts, which kill and maim people and tear apart the social fabrics of both countries, cannot be brought to an end by military means alone. With respect to Syria, it is crucial that the United Nations and Special Envoy de Mistura succeed in engaging the parties and the region in a political process underpinned by the emerging convergence of interests among a broad spectrum of Syrians, as well as key regional powers. Norway fully supports his efforts.”
2014-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7281 (2014) · source
“Thirdly, the challenges faced in Gaza and the West Bank can be fully addressed only in a final status agreement that resolves all core issues between the Israelis and the Palestinians. Norway deplores recent announcements of settlement building, including in occupied East Jerusalem, and calls for a resumption of serious, committed and productive negotiations that can bring an end to the conflict and the occupation that began in 1967. Norway reiterates its call on the Security Council to give leadership and guidance both to the stabilization efforts after the military confrontations this summer and to the resumption ofthe peace process. Extremist forces bent on death and destruction in Iraq, Syria and beyond must be confronted head-on.”
2014-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7281 (2014) · source
“Therefore, the participants called on all parties involved to support a process that results in the Palestinian Authority regaining all its functions and effective control in Gaza. Norway calls on all Palestinian factions to cooperate for Palestinian unity under the leadership of President Abbas. Secondly, the reconstruction of Gaza will simply not be possible unless border crossings to Israel are opened, socioeconomic development is facilitated and economic recovery accelerated. The Palestinian private sector plays a key role in that regard. Norway welcomes the announcement made by a representative of Israel of decisive changes in the current restrictions, as the people of Gaza cannot live under blockade and in poverty and misery. Norway calls on Israel to make significant contributions to the reconstruction efforts.”
2014-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7281 (2014) · source
“Representatives of more than 90 countries and organizations participated and pledged an impressive $5.4 billion dollars - half of which will be allocated to recovery and reconstruction in Gaza. Just as important as the money pledged were the clear political messages given. First, the Gaza Strip constitutes an integral part of the territory occupied in 1967 and is part of a future State of Palestine. Efforts to benefit Gaza will be successful only if placed within the overall framework of support to Palestine. The donors emphasized the need for one single and legitimate recipient Government for Palestine. They made clear that reconstruction was not possible without conducive political and security environments in Gaza. Security must be ensured for all civilians.”
2014-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7281 (2014) · source
“The war in Gaza this summer took a terrible toll on civilians and left the Gaza Strip in ruins. The rockets fired out of Gaza terrorized people all over Israel. Once again, for the third time in less than six years, the international community was reminded that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a threat to international peace and security. Norway commends Egypt for its role in brokering a temporary cessation of hostilities. Absent a permanent ceasefire between the parties, however, all attempts at stabilizing the situation in and around Gaza are doomed to fail. Therefore, Norway urges the Israeli and Palestinian negotiators to take courageous steps when they meet again in Cairo later this month. On 12 October, Norway, Egypt and Palestine co-hosted the Cairo International Conference on Palestine "Reconstructing Gaza".”
2014-10-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7281 (2014) · source
“We plan to hold a new meeting of the donors group, the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee for the Coordination of the International Assistance to Palestinians, in late spring this year, in Brussels. There, we will review assistance for 2014.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“We call for the lifting of the restrictions in compliance with Security Council resolution 1860 (2009) in all its elements, including the need for security for all civilian populations. The institutional basis for an independent Palestine is already in place. However, the Palestinian Authority will continue to need generous financial support from donors in 2014 to support the efforts to achieve peace. Assistance to the Palestinian Authority amounted to $1.25 billion last year, a big improvement over the year before. That still leaves a budget deficit, which will add to Palestine's public debt. Norway urges donors to remain generous in their contributions to the Authority while the Palestinians strive to reach a negotiated settlement with Israel.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Norway aligns itself with the position of the European Union (EU), as set out in the December 2009 EU Council conclusions, regarding the parameters for a solution to the outstanding questions. The solution must be in accordance with the relevant United Nations resolutions, the Oslo Accords and subsequent agreements. We cannot allow the negotiations to be derailed. Norway condemns all use of violence. Norway calls for the parties to refrain from unilateral acts that could undermine the talks, change the situation on the ground or prejudge the outcome of the final-status negotiations. Settlement activities must stop. Norway is deeply concerned about the deteriorating economic and humanitarian situation in Gaza.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Norway believes that given the broader situation in the region, this is the time for Palestinians and Israelis to agree on ending the conflict. A two-State solution whereby Israel and Palestine can live side by side in peace and security is indeed within reach. The process shows how difficult the outstanding questions are: security, borders, the status of Jerusalem and refugees. Reaching agreement involves painful concessions and tough decisions, for both sides. Therefore, we urge the leaders on both sides to show courage and determination at this critical moment. This historic opportunity must not be squandered. Norway believes that such a historic compromise will be possible only if the core needs of both parties are duly addressed, and met, in a fair and balanced way.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Assistance to Syria's neighbouring countries must be stepped up. Norway pledged $65 million in humanitarian assistance and $10 million for assisting Syria's neighbouring countries at the second Kuwait pledging conference. The destruction of Syria's chemical weapons is well under way under the supervision of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons and the United Nations. Norway is proud to be a part of that joint effort to eliminate those deadly weapons. We urge all parties involved to fulfil their international commitments to ensure that the chemical weapons are removed from Syria and destroyed within the agreed time frames. The Middle East peace process is at a decisive phase. We commend President Obama and Secretary Kerry's leadership and dedication.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Remaining at the table is even more important. It is vital that the conference yield concrete results. Violence must end. Ceasefires must be declared. Immediate, full and unimpeded humanitarian access must be ensured and humanitarian principles respected. Syrian women and civil-society actors must be actively involved in the negotiations. That will increase the legitimacy ofthe process. The international community must come together in demanding an end to the conflict, as it did on the issue of the destruction of Syria's chemical weapons. In our view, taking steps of this kind could facilitate an agreement on a transitional governing body, as outlined in the Geneva communique of June 2012 (S/2012/522, annex). The humanitarian challenge is still enormous, and it will remain with us for years. We need to do even more.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“I have circulated my statement and will therefore not read it out in its entirety. There can be no military solution to the conflict in Syria. Pouring more weapons into the conflict will only prolong the human suffering. For this reason, Norway welcomes the Secretary-General's convening ofthe second Geneva Conference on Syria, and we look forward to attending. We also reiterate the Secretary- General's call to the Syrian parties to ensure the full and effective participation of women. The logic of peace must replace the logic of war. We urge both sides of the conflict to accept the invitation to the negotiating table and to embark on the challenging process of reaching agreement on an inclusive, Syrian-led transition and solution to the conflict. Going to the negotiating table is the first step.”
2014-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7096Resumption1 (2014) · source
“The meeting concluded that $350 million was required this year. It also called for additional support from generous Arab States to reduce the Palestinian domestic debt. The Palestinian Government is expected to further align its expenses to its resources. The Israeli Government is expected to lift restrictions to private sector development of the Palestinian economy. Both are expected to cooperate to further improve the business environment, trade, development, and the collection and transfer of taxes and duties. With renewed hope for a political solution to the conflict, the donors agree to stay committed to the State-building programme while negotiations are ongoing. We, as donors, should now deliver on our promises. At the same time, the donors call on the parties to do their part.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“Only the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian State, in accordance with the principles of the two-State vision of peace, can provide the State of Israel with internationally recognized and secure borders. Norway is concerned about any external events that threaten to undermine the talks. We condemn all use of violence. We call for restraint from unilateral acts on the ground. Settlement activities must stop and all parties must refrain from provocations and stay the course. Norway, in its capacity as Chair of the donor coordination group - the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee for the Coordination of the International Assistance to Palestinians-calls on donors to follow up on the positive spirit in the meeting held in New York on 25 September. Additional contributions to the Palestinian Authority's budget are urgently needed.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“The courage shown by the top leadership on both sides is truly commendable. It is encouraging that the talks are continuing, as time is of the essence. We urge both parties to make use of the opportunity presented and to agree on a solution within the parameters of the relevant United Nations resolutions, the Oslo Accords and agreements signed later. We of course understand that reaching an agreement involves painful concessions and tough decisions for both sides. But reaching agreement now is in the interests of the Palestinian people. This may be the last opportunity for a long time for the Palestinian people to realize their national aspirations. Reaching agreement now is also in the interests ofIsrael. Broader recognition of Israel's right to exist can only be achieved by ending the occupation.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“The goal must be to reach agreement on a transitional body that can prepare for free elections and a democratic constitution. Such a body could pave the way for a truly inclusive and democratic Syria and ensure respect for Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity. At the same time, we must not forget the suffering of millions of victims and the urgency of full, immediate, unfettered and unimpeded humanitarian access. Today, more than 2 million people are without access to humanitarian assistance. That is unacceptable. We call on the Security Council to see to it that the presidential statement of 2 October (S/PRST/2013/15) is fully implemented. Norway remains resolute in its support for the ongoing negotiations towards a final status agreement between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“Norway welcomes resolution 2118 (2013) as an important milestone in the efforts to address the issue of chemical weapons in Syria. Removing the chemical stockpiles in Syria and eliminating the risk of anybody using those horrendous weapons in Syria ever again is timely and necessary. However, we know that that turn of events will not end the war in Syria. Resolution 2118 (2013) should therefore be a stepping stone towards stopping the bloodshed in the country and finding a political solution to the conflict, for which there is no military solution. Norway urges the parties to participate in the planned "Geneva II" conference. The conference should build on the framework already established under the first Geneva Conference.”
2013-10-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7047 (2013) · source
“The Israeli occupation and Israeli settlement activities remain the main problem and must stop. Rocket attacks against Israel from Gaza must also stop. Donors need to see meaningful progress before the next AHLC meeting in September, which should be convened at the political level. We need to address the tough questions regarding the continued relevance of our efforts and strategies as donors. I appeal to the donors to continue to provide funding for the Palestinian Authority during this difficult transition.”
2013-04-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6950Resumption1 (2013) · source
“That could cover most of the Palestinian budget deficit this year, but it will not resolve the long-term challenges. More and more donors are questioning the sustainability of the current approach. They are asking whether we are not in fact financing a permanent occupation, given that there are no substantial improvements in those areas or signs of a rapid resumption of negotiations. The recent resignation of Prime Minister Fayyad reflects the increasing frustration of the Palestinians. I salute my good friend Mr. Fayyad for his steadfast work over many years on building up a sustainable Palestinian economy and laying a solid foundation for the establishment of a Palestinian State. The parties need to recommit themselves to achieving a two-State solution.”
2013-04-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6950Resumption1 (2013) · source
“Twenty years have passed since the AHLC was set up to build the foundations for a Palestinian State and to develop its institutions. To fully succeed, the State-building exercise may need to be accompanied by meaningful steps towards the two-State solution. If that vision is lost, the willingness of donors to contribute will indeed diminish. The financial situation is serious. Palestinian revenues are insufficient for a balanced budget, while donor contributions have declined in recent years. Last year, the Palestinian Authority's deficit reached $1.4 billion, with donor contributions covering only $826 million. At the meeting in Brussels, the donors promised that they would continue to provide funds, and contributions may reach $1 billion for 2013.”
2013-04-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6950Resumption1 (2013) · source
“The opposition groups are also guilty of serious disrespect for fundamental humanitarian principles regarding the protection of humanitarian personnel and installations. We therefore call on the Syrian Government and the opposition groups to respect international humanitarian law and fundamental human rights and desist from the despicable practice of gender-based violence. Those responsible for crimes against humanity and war crimes must be held accountable. Since March 2011, Norway has provided $75 million in humanitarian assistance to Syrian refugees and to those who are suffering inside Syria. Let me now turn to the Middle East peace process. On 19 March, Norway chaired the spring meeting of the donor support groups for Palestine - the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee (AHLC) - held in Brussels.”
2013-04-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6950Resumption1 (2013) · source
“In the current situation, Norway regards the Syrian National Coalition as the legitimate representative of the Syrian people. We are assisting the Coalition in building up capacities to provide practical help on the ground and to train people for a future pluralistic and democratic Syria. The litmus test is whether we succeed in making the situation better for all Syrian people, ensuring that the rights of all minority groups are protected. Thus, whether they are men or women, Alawite, Druze, Kurd, Sunni, Shia or Christian, all Syrians should be guaranteed a role in shaping the future of Syria. We are facing a humanitarian crisis of colossal proportions. The Syrian Government has shown a flagrant disregard for the humanitarian consequences of its indiscriminate warfare.”
2013-04-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6950Resumption1 (2013) · source
“Therefore, our message to Al-Assad is that he must start transferring executive power with a view to enabling a meaningful political transition towards a pluralistic and representative Syria. Our message to the opposition groups is that they must contribute to a meaningful political dialogue and negotiate within the framework of the Geneva communique (S/2012/523, annex). Our message to the Security Council members is that they must find a way to promote a political transition based on the Geneva communique. We must give our full support to the work of Joint Special Representative Brahimi. Norway is committed to a democratic, pluralistic and unified post-Al-Assad Syria. We support the efforts of the opposition groups to organize themselves on a more inclusive and representative basis.”
2013-04-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6950Resumption1 (2013) · source
“The paralysis of the Security Council makes the situation worse. As a result, the dynamic of the conflict is becoming entrenched in a logic of violence. Norway urges the Council to take a clear and unanimous stand against the continuing and gross violations of international humanitarian law. The international community must, at an absolute minimum, stand up for the basic principles of international humanitarian law, even if it is divided over how to achieve a political solution. We urge all countries to stop the flow of weapons into Syria. A political solution to the conflict is the only way to save the Syrian people from further suffering, for which the regime bears primary responsibility.”
2013-04-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6950Resumption1 (2013) · source
“In order for members to be able to go home before midnight, I have decided to circulate my speech but not read the whole thing. Members will thus have to promise to read it. The civil war in Syria is a catastrophe with no end in sight. The situation of the millions of civilians in Syria and in neighbouring countries continues to deteriorate and has reached unbelievable dimensions. The country is being reduced to rubble, and the Syrian State is gradually collapsing. Cities and neighbourhoods are being destroyed under constant fire from missiles and heavy artillery on an appalling scale. There seems to be no end to the suffering of the civilian population. We are witnessing brutal suppression and indiscriminate killings. The conflict is spilling across borders and threatening regional stability.”
2013-04-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6950Resumption1 (2013) · source
“We need to ensure clarity on the part of States regarding the scope and applicability of counter-terrorism laws and measures so that they do not undermine humanitarian commitments and in order to fully ensure complete and unimpeded humanitarian access.”
2013-01-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6900Resumption1 (2013) · source
“My sixth and final point is that, in certain situations, counter-terrorism measures and strategies constrain humanitarian action and can even criminalize humanitarian activities. As set out in the 2010 report of the Secretary-General on the protection of civilians in armed conflict (S/2010/579) and reiterated by the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the restrictions imposed by State and non-State actors on personnel and humanitarian supplies are indeed a major concern. Such restrictions include those imposed by donor Governments in relation to certain armed actors in armed conflict.”
2013-01-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6900Resumption1 (2013) · source
“Fifthly, a key element in the Strategy is to prevent the financing of terrorism. We support the close and constructive cooperation that has been developed between the Counter-Terrorism Committee, the Executive Directorate and the Financial Action Task Force. The Task Force has developed practical recommendations to prevent the financing of terrorism, and we urge all Member States to implement them. The recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force are also useful in the fight against international organized crime, which again plays a role in funding terrorism. Furthermore, United Nations organizations must strengthen their financial and other control mechanisms, especially in complex emergencies, in accordance with international standards in order to prevent terrorist financing or other illegal practices.”
2013-01-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6900Resumption1 (2013) · source
“The Nordic countries have provided voluntary contributions through the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force, the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and other United Nations entities to assist Member States in their counter-terrorism efforts and in implementing the Strategy. The United Nations plays a vital coordinating role. Important steps have been taken by the Counter- Terrorism Implementation Task Force and the Counter- Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate, in particular, but there is a continued need to increase efficiency and avoid overlap or gaps. It is also important to improve coordination with initiatives, such as the Global Initiative to Counter Nuclear Terrorism. Therefore, we welcome the proposal to appoint a United Nations counter-terrorism coordinator.”
2013-01-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6900Resumption1 (2013) · source
“In that respect, the strengthening of correctional capacities, such as the judiciary, police and border control, remains important to be able to combat transnational organized crime and terrorism. Thirdly, we are pleased to note that the mandate of the Ombudsperson for the Al-Qaida sanctions system was extended for 30 months in resolution 2083 (2012). We commend Judge Prost for her impressive work, and encourage all Member States to give their full support to her Office and to provide her with all relevant information. Fourthly, it is the responsibility of Member States to take all necessary steps to counter terrorism.”
2013-01-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6900Resumption1 (2013) · source
“I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic countries Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden and my own country, Norway. I will make six brief points. First, no country is immune to terrorism. Norway experienced it in July 2011. Preventing terrorism requires a comprehensive approach, including political, economic, legal and military means. It is also necessary to take a long-term perspective, while still addressing urgent issues without delay. That is the essence of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, as pointed out in the background document for today's meeting (see S/2013/3, annex). Secondly, respect for human rights and the rule of law is the starting point for all our efforts against terrorism, at both the domestic and the international levels.”
2013-01-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6900Resumption1 (2013) · source
“The continued impasse in the negotiations between the parties threatens the common vision of the two- State solution and is an obstacle to a peaceful future for the Palestinian and Israeli people. That is why Norway calls on both parties to resume negotiations on the final status issues. It is the only way to achieve a viable and just solution.”
2012-10-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6847Resumption1 (2012) · source
“The current political stalemate is, however, untenable. The Israeli occupation, which severely hampers Palestinian economic development, remains the main obstacle to the realization of Palestinian statehood. A self-sustaining Palestinian economy cannot be achieved as long as the occupation remains in place and illegal settlements continue to expand, encircling East Jerusalem and undermining the very concept of the two-State solution. Norway, as Chair of the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee, urges donors to honour their outstanding commitments and continue their assistance in helping to build a viable Palestinian economy that can sustain the institutions that are vital for statehood. Ifthe present fiscal crisis in the Palestinian territory is not resolved, there is a risk of growing social and political unrest that could spiral into chaos.”
2012-10-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6847Resumption1 (2012) · source
“While acknowledging that Israel has taken steps to facilitate growth in the Palestinian economy, the donors called on it to take further steps to improve access in the West Bank and Gaza, including in Area C and East Jerusalem. Further realization of the potential of the Palestinian private sector can be achieved by relaxing Israeli restrictions on access to land, a range of raw materials and export markets. While welcoming the Palestinian Authority's efforts to strengthen its fiscal position, the donors noted the importance of further mobilizing all available Palestinian resources in order to overcome the current crisis and continue to reform its institutions. The donors reaffirmed their willingness to continue to support the Authority, but only as part of an international effort to promote the two-State solution.”
2012-10-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6847Resumption1 (2012) · source
“The Ad Hoc Liaison Committee was established in accordance with the Oslo Accords to mobilize funding to promote the development of a Palestinian institutional structure upon which an independent and viable Palestinian State can be built. That aim has been achieved. The assessment made last year that the Palestinian Authority is ready for statehood still stands. However, the Authority should not be allowed to become a perennial client of the international donor community. The task of the donors will not be complete until the Palestinian economy can prosper and fiscal independence is assured. The reports to the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee meeting noted that the constraints on the Palestinian economy are limiting its prospects for reaching sustainability.”
2012-10-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6847Resumption1 (2012) · source
“It is indeed inexcusable that the Security Council has failed to act on its clear responsibilities and to use its collective weight to impose serious consequences in the event of the Syrian Government not ending the violence or complying with its responsibilities. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains deadlocked, with no political solution on the horizon. That deadlock must be broken and the negotiations on a two-State solution resumed. On 23 September, Norway once again hosted a meeting of the donor support group for the Palestinian Authority, the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee on Assistance to the Palestinians, in New York. The meeting was held against the backdrop of the serious fiscal crisis facing the Palestinian Authority, which may be looking at a financing gap of not less than $400 million at the end of this year.”
2012-10-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6847Resumption1 (2012) · source
“Such a plan has already been endorsed by an overwhelming majority of the General Assembly. A credible political transition must be inclusive and peaceful and must preserve the unity of the State, while protecting the rights of all constituencies in Syria. To make progress towards transition, the violence must end, Al-Assad's regime must cede power and the political opposition must unite around a road map for peace and shared principles. By staying engaged with all parties, the Joint Special Representative of the United Nations and the League of Arab States for Syria, Lakhdar Brahimi, plays a key role in helping to find common ground in order to move the political process forward. Norway fully supports his efforts. However, it is unfortunate that Mr. Brahimi's tasks have been hampered by a divided Security Council.”
2012-10-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6847Resumption1 (2012) · source
“It is our duty to end impunity for international crimes and to ensure accountability for the crimes committed. The Syrian Government bears the primary responsibility for the conflict. One tragic result of the conflict is the escalation of humanitarian needs both inside Syria and beyond. We commend Syria's neighbours for their generosity in receiving Syrian refugees and for their efforts to support them. Increased humanitarian support and access are necessary and all parties must protect the civilian population, ensure unhindered humanitarian access and protect health workers and medical facilities. As the level of violence intensifies, it is urgent to move forward with a meaningful political transition that meets the aspirations of the Syrian people and brings stability.”
2012-10-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6847Resumption1 (2012) · source
“Every Government has a responsibility to protect its people but Al-Assad chose to turn the deadly State apparatus against the Syrian population. The popular demands for meaningful change have never been given serious consideration by the Syrian regime. Syria's conflict has already spilled over into neighbouring countries and is destabilizing the region, as we have seen on the Syrian-Turkish border. We condemn the shelling by the Syrian forces and the continued violence in the strongest possible terms. All violence and atrocities in Syria, including the systematic use of sexual violence and torture against children, men and women, must stop. Crimes of that nature must never go unpunished. Even in times of war, there are rules. All parties to the conflict are bound by international humanitarian law.”
2012-10-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6847Resumption1 (2012) · source
“The international community must now help to consolidate those developments by providing political and economic support, while holding the new Governments accountable. Nineteen months ago, the conflict in Syria began not as a sectarian civil war but as a call for dignity, freedom and democratic change through the peaceful protests of the Syrian people. It was a genuine call by the Syrian people. It was not an external manipulation or a pretext for foreign intervention, as the regime is propagating. Tragically, the call for change was met by brutal military force, not dialogue. President Al-Assad and his regime decided to turn the legitimate struggle of the Syrian people into a sectarian war by redefining peaceful protests as terrorism and foreign conspiracy.”
2012-10-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6847Resumption1 (2012) · source
“We take the floor today to draw attention to the grave consequences of Syria's tragic path to civil war and to stress that we must not lose sight of the unresolved Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Both conflicts require a political solution. The historical changes and popular uprisings in the Arab world, in particular Tunisia, Egypt and Libya, have removed lifelong dictators and replaced them with representative Governments. Those changes were driven by the people demanding greater political freedom, which is their legitimate right. Governments that draw their legitimacy from the consent of their people, rather than from fear and repression, are best suited to delivering justice and lasting order, stability and peace.”
2012-10-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6847Resumption1 (2012) · source