YouSaid · the spoken record

Ravindra Raguttahalli

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49
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2021-01-21
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2021-05-17
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8
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un-security-council

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  1. In particular, we note with concern that its provisions on the withdrawal of foreign fighters and mercenaries continue to be violated, posing a serious threat not only to Libya but also to its neighbours and the region as a whole. India is also concerned about the violations of the arms embargo. Such violations have the potential to cause hindrances in achieving progress in the political process by threatening the security environment. India has traditionally enjoyed close and mutually beneficial bilateral ties with Libya. We genuinely wish to see enduring peace and stability return to the country, and we remain committed to supporting Libya and the Libyan people in this endeavour. We hope that all efforts by the international community, including the ICC, contribute towards achieving unity, peace, security and stability in the country.

    2021-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/483 (2021) · source

  2. These developments appear to substantiate the view that the ICC mechanism may not serve the purpose of justice when cases or situations are referred to the Court primarily for political reasons. We are encouraged to note that the ceasefire has largely been holding up, and the new Government of National Unity, charged with leading Libya to elections on 24 December, has been moving ahead with purpose. However, we also note that sources of instability still remain, and spoilers could still hinder the progress towards peace and stability in the country. It is imperative that the ceasefire agreement of 23 October 2020 be implemented in full.

    2021-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/483 (2021) · source

  3. I would like to join others in thanking the Prosecutor, Ms. Fatou Bensouda, for her briefing today. Let me state, at the outset, that India is not party to the Rome Statute. I would like the Security Council to recall that when resolution 1970 (2011), concerning Libya, was adopted, India, as a member of the Security Council, India called for a calibrated and gradual approach (see S/PV.6491). However, noting that several members of the Council believed that such a referral to the International Criminal Court (ICC) would have the effect of an immediate cessation of violence and the restoration of calm and stability, we did not stand in the way of consensus in the Council. It has been 10 years since then. The acquittals in recent years have cast a shadow on the credibility of the ICC.

    2021-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/483 (2021) · source

  4. The full implementation of UNITAD’s mandate would help secure justice for the survivors in Iraq and beyond. India stands ready to offer its support to UNITAD in that regard.

    2021-05-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/460 (2021) · source

  5. The full realization of UNITAD’s mandate will not be possible until the Team is able to share its large volume of evidence with the Iraqi authorities. It is unfortunate that, despite a lapse of almost three years, UNITAD has been unable to fully service its primary client. We hope this will be rectified soon, in keeping with the timelines indicated in the Special Adviser’s report (see S/2021/419). Delays in evidence-sharing will further delay justice to those victims and their loved ones whose lives have been devastated by the atrocities committed by ISIL. The people of Iraq have made immense sacrifices in their fight against ISIL. Justice will not be delivered to them until those responsible for the atrocities carried out are held to account.

    2021-05-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/460 (2021) · source

  6. Harnessing the benefits of technological innovation for the betterment of humankind is an important priority for India. We encourage UNITAD to continue its pursuit of advanced technological solutions to enhance the efficiency of its work. India also welcomes the technical and financial support extended by other Member States to UNITAD. Such efforts should also contribute to strengthening Iraq’s judicial system and law enforcement capabilities. Terrorists and terrorist groups affiliated with ISIL have committed crimes against humanity in an unprecedented manner. The perpetrators of those crimes should be brought to justice in their respective countries of origin. The sharing of information and evidence collected by UNITAD with other Member States will further strengthen those efforts.

    2021-05-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/460 (2021) · source

  7. Such joint work, along with the training of various Iraqi authorities, will ensure that national capacities are strengthened in order to ensure accountability in the long-term for the horrific crimes perpetrated by ISIL. That also holds true for the efforts of UNITAD to jointly develop case files with the judicial authorities of Iraq to prosecute such crimes. We note with satisfaction UNITAD’s innovative use of technology in fulfilling its mandate and in overcoming the challenges posed by the coronavirus disease pandemic. The Shuhud digital platform deserves special appreciation, as it enables the victims and other Iraqi people to submit information and evidence to support the Team’s accountability efforts in a much faster and easier way.

    2021-05-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/460 (2021) · source

  8. On many occasions, India has highlighted the serious threat to international peace and security emanating from the acquisition of weapons of mass destruction by ISIL and other terrorist groups, as well as the need for greater international cooperation to prevent it. We hope that UNITAD’s investigation will also provide valuable insights in that regard so as to help global non-proliferation efforts, including through the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1540 (2004). We appreciate the close partnership and excellent cooperation between the Iraqi authorities and UNITAD. This partnership has been central to the effective delivery of UNITAD’s mandate. The continued involvement of Iraqi experts in the work of the Investigative Team, alongside international experts, is crucial to UNITAD’s success.

    2021-05-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/460 (2021) · source

  9. The completion of initial case briefs by UNITAD in the attacks against the Yazidi community in the Sinjar region and the positive progress in case briefs on other communities are also important developments. We welcome UNITAD’s investigation into the development and use of chemical and biological weapons by ISIL in Iraq. We note with concern the Team’s observation that evidence collected and analysed confirms the repeated use of chemical weapons by ISIL against civilians. India firmly condemns the use of chemical weapons anywhere, at any time, by anybody and under any circumstances.

    2021-05-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/460 (2021) · source

  10. We are pleased to note that UNITAD, under the leadership of the Special Adviser, is fighting impunity and ensuring accountability for the crimes committed by ISIL in Iraq. Accountability for such crimes, especially those committed against various minority communities in Iraq, is critical for achieving smooth reconciliation and sustained peace in Iraq. In that regard, we welcome the adoption of the Yazidi Female Survivors Law. Implementation of that key law and the recent Sinjar agreement will help Iraq move closer to achieving justice for the victims and contribute to restoring normalcy in the lives of Yazidi survivors, as well as enhance their quality of life and pave the way for their safe return. UNITAD’s work also supports the Iraqi Government’s efforts aimed at national reconciliation.

    2021-05-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/460 (2021) · source

  11. India strongly believes that the credibility of our collective fight against terrorism can be strengthened only when we ensure accountability for the grave and inhuman acts of terror committed by terrorists and take strong measures against States that encourage, support and finance terrorism. The Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) has carried out inhuman atrocities against the people of Iraq. Victims of ISIL’s horrific crimes also include 39 Indian nationals. ISIL has systematically committed genocide, torture, rape, slavery and kidnapping throughout the territory under its control in Iraq and Syria. The Islamic State therefore cannot be seen as just another regional terrorist outfit; it is a global syndicate with affiliated terrorist groups across the world, including in our neighbourhood.

    2021-05-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/460 (2021) · source

  12. I welcome Special Adviser Karim Asad Ahmad Khan and the Permanent Representative of Iraq, Ambassador Mohammed Hussein Bahr Aluloom, to the meeting. I echo the appreciation of other colleagues for the Special Adviser’s contribution to the work of the United Nations Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Da’esh/Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (UNITAD). I wish him success in his next assignment as Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court. I also welcome Noble Peace Prize Laureate Nadia Murad and thank her for her briefing.

    2021-05-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/460 (2021) · source

  13. In this regard, we welcome the adoption of the Revised National War Crimes Processing Strategy. While there has not been much progress on implementing 5+2 agenda, we should not lose sight of positive developments, such as elections to the assembly in Brčko district. Bosnia and Herzegovina has come a long way in building a multi- ethnic, multilingual, multicultural and multireligious country. The problems that the country is facing are typical and bound to be encountered on the path of nation- building, especially when inhabited by people of different faiths, ethnicities and languages. We hope the Bosnian parties will continue their engagement in a spirit of compromise and maturity to address all outstanding issues.

    2021-05-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/436 (2021) · source

  14. At the same time, as mentioned in the report of Office of the High Representative, several areas remain where progress has been little or less than satisfactory, including bringing an end to ethnic-based discrimination and improving coordination among the State and entity-level institutions. The increasing number of illegal migrants transiting Bosnia and Herzegovina is a matter of serious concern, given its impact on internal security and the potential of radicalization. India stands ready to extend support in capacity-building to address this challenge. We pay homage to those who lost their lives during the 1990s. Having witnessed genocide in our own neighbourhood 50 years ago, we are convinced that the attempts to seek justice for those who were massacred or went missing must actively continue.

    2021-05-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/436 (2021) · source

  15. We are of the view that the issue of Office of the High Representative needs to be resolved through consensus. The reporting period has witnessed some positive developments, despite the negative impact of the coronavirus disease pandemic. The tripartite presidency has issued a joint statement marking the twenty-fifth anniversary expressing commitment to respect the provisions of the agreement and Constitution. The elections to the assembly in Brčko district and local assemblies in cities and municipalities in both the Federation and Republic of Srpska have taken place. This is a welcome trend reflecting people’s faith in democracy. The Council of Ministers, as mentioned by the High Representative, has met regularly and the presidency has also taken decisions within its competencies.

    2021-05-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/436 (2021) · source

  16. Towards this end, we also recognize the progress made in the last two and half decades and the important role played by the European Union Military Operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, EUFOR-Althea, and the contribution of the international community. These efforts have brought about peace and allowed the sustenance of a complex political governance structure. Of late, there have been some visible frictions though, including avoidable rhetoric and actions, which have hampered progress in the implementation of the agreement. We believe it is incumbent on the Office of the High Representative to continue to work with all parties objectively to build trust to overcome the impediments. The Office of the High Representative is an ad-hoc mechanism and expeditious implementation of the 5+2 agenda should continue to remain the top priority.

    2021-05-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/436 (2021) · source

  17. Let me begin by extending our best wishes to the Chinese delegation on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for this month, and I wish it all success. I would like to thank High Representative Valentin Inzko for his useful briefing and for this comprehensive and detailed report (see S/2021/409). The Dayton Peace Agreement remains the cornerstone for building enduring peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina. To this day, Dayton continues to define the framework to find solutions related to inter-ethnic conflict settlement through dialogue of the parties on the basis of equality and mutual respect, compromise and consensus. The Office of the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, as an ad- hoc international institution mechanism, has been overseeing the implementation of the civilian aspects of the agreement.

    2021-05-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/436 (2021) · source

  18. We are confident that both countries will successfully resolve all outstanding issues and continue to emerge stronger as major development success stories in Africa. India, as a long-standing partner, will continue to support Juba and Khartoum in this journey.

    2021-04-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/408 (2021) · source

  19. We have taken note of the lack of consensus in the Secretary-General’s “draw- down of UNISFA” report (S/2021/383) after intensive regional consultations with the Sudan, South Sudan and Ethiopia. We concur with the Secretary-General’s assessment that, pending consensus on this sensitive issue, a final decision should be deferred for the time being. In conclusion, let me highlight that India has long-standing and mutually beneficial friendly relations with both the Sudan and South Sudan. We have contributed to the development of both countries by means of bilateral assistance and projects in sectors, such as energy, transportation and agriculture. Our capacity- building, training and scholarship programmes have been deeply appreciated by both countries.

    2021-04-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/408 (2021) · source

  20. The humanitarian situation in the Abyei Area remains challenging, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. We appreciate the efforts of UNISFA and humanitarian agencies. UNISFA has carried out tasks related to the JBVMM in a commendable manner, despite operational challenges. We also welcome the innovative technological initiatives to improve the mission’s performance. Regarding operational issues concerning the mission, the early facilitation of visas for police personnel and agreement on a civilian deputy head of the mission will positively impact the mission’s operations. So too will the upgrade of the Athony airstrip. These are long-standing pending issues and need to resolved quickly.

    2021-04-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/408 (2021) · source

  21. Despite their tense relations, the Ngok Dinka and the Misseriya communities have responded to UNISFA’s efforts to resume the community grass-roots peace process. We need to be cognizant of the fact that these welcome developments have taken place amid coronavirus disease (COVID-19) challenges. We need to encourage both sides to continue efforts in the coming months. These efforts need to focus on the early convening of the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee and promoting intercommunity dialogue, which are essential to the peace process in Abyei. With respect to the security situation, the attacks on UNISFA troops and World Food Programme convoys, as well as increasing violent incidents involving the Ngok Dinka and the Misseriya communities, are a matter of concern. The mission must take adequate measures to ensure the safety of peacekeepers.

    2021-04-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/408 (2021) · source

  22. There has been some progress made in recent months, including the continued rapprochement between the Sudan and South Sudan, which we welcome. The role played by South Sudan in the Juba accords is having a positive impact. The African Union has also continued its mediation efforts and has offered support to the parties to resume Abyei Joint Oversight Committee meetings. Other notable positive developments include the signing of a protocol on the resumption of oil production in the Unity and Toma South oil fields in South Sudan and the convening of joint bodies related to the management of the border, including the Joint Political and Security Mechanism. The overall security situation in the Abyei Area has also remained relatively calm.

    2021-04-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/408 (2021) · source

  23. At the outset, let me begin by thanking Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under- Secretary-General for Peace Operations, and Mr. Parfait Onanga-Anyanga, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa, for their respective briefings on developments concerning the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) and its support to the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism (JBVMM) as well as progress in the implementation of resolution 2046 (2012). During our previous tenure in the Council in 2011, India was closely involved in the efforts that created UNISFA in June 2011. It is a matter of concern that the status of Abyei remains unsettled. Peaceful resolution of the final status of Abyei, in conformity with the comprehensive peace agreement, remains fundamental to durable peace between the two countries.

    2021-04-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/408 (2021) · source

  24. We have also called on all parties not to link the humanitarian and development work with progress on the political track. We stand ready to work with humanitarian relief agencies, led by the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and the United Nations Development Programme, in devising a suitable vaccination relief programme for the country and West Asia as a whole. Let me conclude by reiterating our support for efforts towards attaining lasting sustainable peace in Syria.

    2021-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/226 (2021) · source

  25. The Secretary-General’s latest report on the threat posed by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (Da’esh) (S/2021/98) alludes to the incubation of the terrorist threat in displacement camps and detention facilities in north-eastern Syria. Undoubtedly, the role of certain players in the Syrian conflict has re-energized terrorist activities in the region. India has consistently called for a comprehensive and peaceful resolution of the Syrian conflict through a Syrian-led dialogue, taking into account the legitimate aspirations of the people of Syria. We have also contributed to the return of normalcy and the rebuilding of Syria through humanitarian assistance and human resource development, most recently through the delivery of 2,000 metric tons of rice in February.

    2021-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/226 (2021) · source

  26. India is willing to work with other like-minded delegations towards fostering unity in the Council on all issues concerning Syria. As one of the worst sufferers of the scourge of terrorism, India continues to call on the Council to remain cognizant, at all times, of the dangers of weapons of mass destruction falling into the hands of terrorist groups. We have consistently underlined the need to prevent terrorist groups from taking advantage of the decade- long conflict in Syria and entrenching themselves, thereby posing a threat to the entire region. Reports of the resurgence of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Shams in the region are being heard with increasing frequency.

    2021-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/226 (2021) · source

  27. India has consistently underlined the need for an impartial and objective investigation into any alleged use of chemical weapons, scrupulously following the provisions and procedures laid down in the Chemical Weapons Convention. Any concerns or differences should be addressed on the basis of consultations among all the parties concerned. In our view, politicization of the issue will result in parties taking extreme positions, jeopardizing ongoing efforts towards resolution. Whether it be the alleged use of chemical weapons, humanitarian issues or political processes, we need greater efforts in seeking a congruence of positions, both within the Security Council and beyond, in order to see meaningful and tangible progress on the ground in Syria.

    2021-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/226 (2021) · source

  28. We hope that those consultations will help in addressing the reported gaps and inconsistencies in the declaration. We have also taken note of the extension of the tripartite agreement among the OPCW, Syria and the United Nations Office for Project Services. We hope that the six-month extension agreement will be signed soon. India has provided a financial contribution of $1 million to the OPCW trust fund for activities relating to the destruction of chemical stockpiles and related facilities in Syria. We believe that the continued engagement and cooperation between Syria and the OPCW Technical Secretariat is critical to the early resolution of all outstanding issues.

    2021-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/226 (2021) · source

  29. I would like to thank Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu for her briefing. We have taken note of the monthly report submitted by the Director General of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), entitled “Progress in the elimination of the Syrian chemical weapons programme” (see S/2021/200), which provides information about the activities of the OPCW in implementing resolution 2118 (2013), as well as the activities of its Fact-Finding Mission, the Declaration Assessment Team (DAT) and the Investigation and Identification Team. We are encouraged to learn that the twenty-fourth round of consultations between the DAT and the relevant Syrian authorities took place from 7 to 25 February.

    2021-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/226 (2021) · source

  30. India also provided emergency financial aid to Haiti in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew in October 2016. In July 2020, a project of $1 million was approved under the India-United Nations Development Programme fund for the installation of solar pumps in Haiti. India has also been assisting Haiti in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, having provided hydroxychloroquine, essential medicines and protective gear in July, and is now in the process of sending 10,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines. We look forward to continuing our support to the people of Haiti in their efforts to emerge more resilient from the current challenging times.

    2021-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/174 (2021) · source

  31. India has been a major troop-contributing country to United Nations peacekeeping operations in Haiti and contributed three formed police units to the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti in 2008 and the United Nations Mission for Justice Support in Haiti in 2017. The final batch of the Indian contingent of Assam Rifles departed Haiti in August 2019, and was awarded a medal by the United Nations in recognition of their valuable work in the country. India contributed to the efforts of the Haitian authorities to deal with the devastating earthquake in 2010. In the immediate aftermath of the earthquake, India contributed $5 million to the Government of Haiti for relief measures, including the construction of a housing colony known as Mahatma Gandhi Village, as a token of our solidarity with the people of Haiti.

    2021-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/174 (2021) · source

  32. India stands ready to work with the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti and the United Nations country team to carry out their mandate, especially in priority areas such as the delivery of justice, the convening of elections and the reduction of violence, through capacity-building and institution-building activities, with full national ownership. We join the call for all stakeholders to engage in national dialogue to bring political stability, usher in constitutional reforms and conduct elections peacefully in order to promote democratic institutions in the country with the support of international community. India has a long-standing relationship with Haiti and its people.

    2021-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/174 (2021) · source

  33. We also welcome steps to strengthen the Haitian National Police so as to empower it to deal with gang violence and improve its community approach. Thirdly, progress in justice reforms is critical to regain the trust of the people. In that regard, we note the role played by the General Inspectorate of the Haitian National Police with regard to police reform. Similar proactive initiatives in other spheres of public security and criminal justice would also be welcomed.Fourthly, on benchmark 5 — unemployment, youth and other vulnerable groups — and benchmark 6 — basic social service delivery and resilience — we take note of the activities of the mission to support Government efforts and encourage it to continue its activities, in line with the mandate.

    2021-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/174 (2021) · source

  34. In order to achieve long-term political stability, it is crucial that all stakeholders engage in national dialogue and work towards conducting peaceful and credible legislative and presidential elections. In that regard, let me make following observations. First, we have taken note of the appointment of the Independent Consultative Constitutional Committee. We hope that a consultative process, involving all stakeholders, will be undertaken to reach decisions that adequately reflect the hopes and aspirations of the people of Haiti. Secondly, the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration project being carried out under the Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund is helping to address the issue of armed gang violence. We hope for the early implementation of the national community violence reduction strategy by the Haitian authorities.

    2021-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/174 (2021) · source

  35. In addition, the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has also adversely impacted the economic and humanitarian situation. Recent developments reflect the fragile nature of the political situation and the lack of trust among political actors. Moreover, the fact that there is no agreed objective interpretation of Haitian constitutional law has only accentuated political differences, thereby adversely impacting institutional stability, good governance and the rule of law. This year will be critical for Haiti, in its efforts to build on the democratic gains made in the past decade. Political stability is fundamental to effective governance to stimulate overall socioeconomic development.

    2021-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/174 (2021) · source

  36. Haiti’s recovery from the earthquake and cholera epidemic, the holding of elections in 2010 and 2015, the peaceful transfer of power and increased policing capabilities reflect the resilience of the Haitian people. We also acknowledge the significant role played by the international community and bilateral partners in supporting the Haitian recovery. Nonetheless, the Haitian people continue to suffer from the effects of a multidimensional crisis that, unfortunately, has been prolonged for decades. Today more than ever, they require the unwavering support of the international community. As reflected in the Secretary-General’s latest report (S/2021/133) and as evident from recent political developments, Haiti is facing serious political and security challenges.

    2021-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/174 (2021) · source

  37. At the outset, let me welcome the presence of His Excellency Mr. Jovenel Moïse, President of Haiti, in the meeting. I would like to join others in thanking Ms. Helen Meagher La Lime, Special Representative of the Secretary-General, for her briefing on recent developments in Haiti. I also thank Ms. Vivianne Roc for bringing the perspective of civil society to today’s meeting. Today’s briefings provides us with an opportunity to assess the situation in Haiti and the activities of the United Nations mission in fulfilling its Chapter VI mandate, in particular with regard to the six benchmarks concerning the integrated strategic framework. My delegation takes positive note of all that Haiti has achieved in the last decade, following the devastating earthquake of 2010.

    2021-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/174 (2021) · source

  38. We have also contributed to the return of normalcy and rebuilding of Syria through humanitarian assistance and human-resource development. We now stand ready to work with humanitarian-relief agencies in devising a suitable vaccination-relief programme for the country and the Western Asia as a whole. Let me conclude by reiterating our full-hearted support to both the Geneva and the Astana processes for an expeditious resolution of the decade-long conflict in Syria.

    2021-02-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/109 (2021) · source

  39. India remains concerned about the possibility of such dangerous weapons of mass destruction falling into the hands of terrorist organizations and individuals. Terrorist groups have taken advantage of the decade-long conflict in Syria to entrench themselves, posing a threat to the entire region. Reports of the resurgence in the region of the Islamic State in Iraq and the Shams are being heard with increasing frequency. The world cannot afford to give these terrorists any sanctuary or desist in its fight against these terrorist groups. India has consistently called for a comprehensive and peaceful resolution of the Syrian conflict through a Syrian-led dialogue, taking into account the legitimate aspirations of the people of Syria.

    2021-02-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/109 (2021) · source

  40. Any concerns should be addressed on the basis of consultation among all parties concerned. In our view, politicization of the issue will result in parties taking extreme positions, jeopardizing the ongoing efforts towards any resolution. India attaches high importance to the Chemical Weapons Convention, which is a unique, non-discriminatory disarmament instrument and serves as a model for the elimination of an entire category of weapons of mass destruction. Under the Convention, India enjoys the distinction of becoming one of the first State parties to be declared “chemical-weapon free”. India has also provided a financial contribution of $1 million to the OPCW Trust Fund for activities relating to destruction of chemical stockpiles and related facilities in Syria.

    2021-02-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/109 (2021) · source

  41. We also hope that the OPCW Technical Secretariat will report on the outcomes of the inspections of the facilities of the Syrian Scientific Studies and Research Centre that were conducted between 8 and 13 November 2020. We also note the development concerning extension of tripartite agreement among the OPCW, Syria and the United Nations Office for Project Services. We hope that agreement will be signed soon. We encourage continued engagement and cooperation between Syria and the OPCW Technical Secretariat towards an early resolution of all outstanding issues. India has consistently underlined the need for an impartial and objective investigation into any alleged use of chemical weapons, scrupulously following the provisions and procedures laid down in the Convention.

    2021-02-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/109 (2021) · source

  42. I would like to thank Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu for her briefing. We appreciate the monthly report shared by Director General of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) with the Council today regarding the activities of the OPCW in implementing resolution 2118 (2013). India recognizes the continuing efforts of the Declaration Assessment Team (DAT), the Fact-Finding Mission in Syria and the Investigation and Identification Team mechanisms of the OPCW, especially in these challenging times. We appreciate the announcement that the DAT intends to deploy in the coming week to Syria for the next round of consultations. We look forward to receiving its findings.

    2021-02-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/109 (2021) · source

  43. While commending the role played by MINUSCA, we reiterate the importance of the Mission adhering to its mandate as per Security Council resolutions. We also want to underscore the importance of coordination among the security forces of the Central African Republic and the countries extending military support to those forces for coordination of their actions with MINUSCA. India supports the ongoing efforts of the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the two guarantors of the 2019 peace agreement, to defuse the crisis through negotiations. The countries having influence on the actors in the Central African Republic must also extend their support to the AU and ECCAS. The immediate and pressing priority is the early restoration of peace and stability in the Central African Republic.

    2021-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/76 (2021) · source

  44. We call on all opposition groups, particularly signatories to the peace agreement, to cease hostilities immediately and join the Central African Republic authorities in finding a peaceful solution to the current crisis. It is imperative for all stakeholders to respect the final verdict by Central African Republic’s Constitutional Court and settle their disputes through a peaceful process. We welcome the statement made by President Touadera underscoring the importance of reconciliation and that of willingness to work with the opposition. The authorities of the Central African Republic should also refrain from taking any action that would exacerbate existing tensions. MINUSCA has been playing a critical role in supporting the Central African Republic security forces in repelling the attacks by opposition groups.

    2021-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/76 (2021) · source

  45. We commend the Central African Republic authorities for conducting the elections, with the support of international and regional partners and Mission. However, the recent developments have the potential to derail the hard-earned progress made since 2019. We have seen similar post-electoral situations turning into a major crisis and affecting the larger region. Given the history of political instability and violence, the situation in the Central African Republic warrants immediate attention by the international community. On 18 January, the Constitutional Court validated the results and endorsed the outcome of the elections.

    2021-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/76 (2021) · source

  46. The incessant violence has forced nearly 60,000 people to flee the country, compounding an already dire refugee crisis. Schools and training centres remain closed outside the capital, and pastoralists and farmers can no longer carry out their activities because of insecurity and fear. Reports of the Coalition des patriotes pour le changement recruiting children for its work are deplorable. We remain concerned about the evolving humanitarian crisis due to attacks by the opposition groups, and we call on the opposition groups to lift the blockade on towns and allow the movement of essential supplies. The holding of the second democratic elections on 27 December 2020 despite persisting challenges was, no doubt, an important milestone in the Central African Republic.

    2021-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/76 (2021) · source

  47. There has been a dangerous escalation on the ground with the Coalition des patriotes pour le changement, armed groups opposed to President Touadera that have abandoned the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic, signed in early 2019, and launched attacks on the capital, Bangui, and other towns. While the 2019 peace agreement and the road map remain the fundamental edifice to move ahead, we understand that key parts of the deal have not yet been implemented and rebel violence has continued across the country. The illegal taxing of local populations, the trafficking in gold and diamonds and the levying of additional taxes on those involved in the supply and production of minerals continue to generate significant revenue for the rebels.

    2021-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/76 (2021) · source

  48. The deaths of seven MINUSCA peacekeepers as a result of the launch of the coordinated and simultaneous attacks by the coalition of anti-Government rebel groups is a tragic reflection of the deteriorating situation on the ground. Those attacks on peacekeepers are shocking and unacceptable. The perpetrators of those heinous attacks must be held accountable. We call on the Central African Republic authorities to take immediate action against the attackers and bring them to justice. The precarious security situation in the Central African Republic since the presidential elections held last month is a matter of serious concern.

    2021-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/76 (2021) · source

  49. Let me begin by thanking Mr. Mankeur Ndiaye, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Central African Republic, for his comprehensive briefing on the recent developments in the Central African Republic and for the action taken by the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) to address the security situation in the country. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families of the peacekeepers from Morocco, Gabon, Rwanda and Burundi who lost their lives during the attacks in the Central African Republic. We also wish the injured peacekeepers a speedy recovery.

    2021-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/76 (2021) · source