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2007-04-25

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2012-12-10

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un-security-council

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1. “In resolution 1593 (2005), the Council called upon the Government of the Sudan and all other parties in Darfur to cooperate fully with and provide necessary assistance to the Court and the Prosecutor. In that regard, we note with regret that there has not been any progress with regard to the ICC-issued arrest warrants. We therefore urge the Government of the Sudan and other parties involved in Darfur to cooperate fully with the ICC. There can be no sustainable peace without justice in Darfur, and it is vital to bring to justice those accused of bearing the primary responsibility for the crimes committed. We also note with disappointment that, since the Prosecutor's previous report to the Council, the situation in Darfur has not improved and civilians continue to be targeted.”

   2008-06-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5905 (2008) · source

2. “The ICC, through its ability to deter the further commission of international crimes, serves as an advocate of adherence to the rule of law, and thus we expect cooperation with its work. We are acutely aware of the challenges facing the Prosecutor, arising primarily from the fact that the ICC does not have its own police force or army to execute its warrants of arrest and is therefore entirely dependent on the cooperation of States in that regard. It would seem to us that there is a responsibility incumbent upon the Security Council to demand the cooperation of States, particularly in instances in which the Council has referred cases to the Court.”

   2008-06-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5905 (2008) · source

3. “At the outset, allow me to thank the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Costa Rica for his participation in this Council meeting today. We also wish to welcome the new Permanent Representative of Belgium to the Council. Allow me to express the appreciation of my delegation to the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Mr. Moreno-Ocampo, for his statement before this Chamber and in particular for the important work that he is doing. South Africa is a member of the ICC and we remain committed to supporting its work. As we have stated before in this Chamber, we see the Court as central to ending impunity for international crimes and to establishing conditions under which justice and the rule of law can be maintained.”

   2008-06-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5905 (2008) · source

4. “Most importantly, the Council should not lose focus on the bigger issue in Somalia, specifically the need to address the political, security and humanitarian situation on the ground. In that regard, we welcomed the adoption of resolution 1814 (2008) last month. That resolution sent a signal to the people of Somalia that the international community is serious about assisting them in resolving their conflict. We reiterate the Council's willingness to consider at the appropriate time a peacekeeping operation to take over the African Union Mission in Somalia once there is progress in the political process and improvement in the security situation on the ground, as provided for in resolution 1814 (2008). We are pleased that the Security Council's visit to Africa has begun with a discussion on Somalia.”

   2008-06-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5902 (2008) · source

5. “We congratulate you, Sir, on assuming the presidency of the Security Council, and we also congratulate the delegation of the United Kingdom on its excellent stewardship of the Council during the month of May. We welcome the adoption of resolution 1816 (2008) today. In negotiating and agreeing to the resolution, we were guided by the fact that it limits itself to the situation in Somalia. We should be clear that it is the situation in Somalia, not piracy in and of itself, that constitutes a threat to international peace and security. Piracy is a symptom of the situation in Somalia. Furthermore, the resolutions of this Council must respect the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The Convention remains the basis for cooperation between States on the issue of piracy.”

   2008-06-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5902 (2008) · source

6. “We hope that the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations will accelerate the deployment of an assessment mission to Somalia so as to facilitate further United Nations engagement. Given the seriousness of the situation, maintaining the status quo and withdrawal are not options. There can be only one option - a more focused United Nations approach to bring about security in Somalia.”

   2007-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5805 (2007) · source

7. “Once again South Africa expresses the hope that the Security Council will revisit the request of the African Union for an expedited deployment to Somalia. Unfortunately, there seems to be a subtle reluctance, if not resistance, to this request. The reality is that the international community has the responsibility not to abandon the people of Somali again. The way forward, it seems to us, if we are to stop Somalia from being a constant threat to international peace and security, is to encourage and support the political process as well as to deploy a peacekeeping operation. A conducive security environment has to be created to allow the political process to proceed.”

   2007-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5805 (2007) · source

8. “However, as the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs warned in his briefing earlier this month, "a robust humanitarian response cannot make up for the absence of desperately needed political and security progress" (S/PV.5792, p. 6). It is important that we continue to promote an inclusive political process and reconciliation in Somalia and seriously look into a contingency plan for possible deployment of a peacekeeping force in Somalia. Despite the often-cited admirable work that the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) has been doing, we all know that this has gone beyond sustainability and effectiveness. The problem is not just that of resources, but also the nature of the mandate. AMISOM. was deployed as a stop-gap until the United Nations can deploy.”

   2007-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5805 (2007) · source

9. “We welcome the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Ould Abdallah, and thank him for the sobering briefing. We also welcome the statement made by the representative of Somalia. Clearly, the situation in Somalia is not getting any better. It is still characterized by a grave humanitarian crisis, major political divisions, including within the Transitional Federal Government, and general insecurity in the country. We have been told that some 200,000 people have fled their homes recently as a result of increasing fighting, with the country being plunged into an unfolding disaster. The humanitarian situation remains fragile precisely because of insecurity and political divisions. We acknowledge the necessity of humanitarian assistance so as to alleviate the suffering of the people of Somalia.”

   2007-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5805 (2007) · source

10. “In conclusion, we once again wish to express our sincere gratitude to the Government and people of Timor-Leste for their hospitality, assistance and cooperation, as well as the entire staff of UNMIT for providing us with the necessary support during the Council's mission to Timor-Leste. We particularly wish to note the invaluable support from the Government of Indonesia for assisting the delegation with smooth transit to Timor-Leste. Appreciation and gratitude are also extended to the Security Council secretariat and United Nations security personnel for their tireless efforts and support during the mission's preparatory stage and during the mission itself. We commend this report for the consideration of the Security Council.”

    2007-12-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5801 (2007) · source

11. “The report clearly indicates that despite these challenges, the mission left Timor-Leste convinced that the country is on the right path towards sustainable 07-64195 peace, stability, unity and prosperity. In this context, the mission noted that political dialogue, national reconciliation and continuous engagement aimed at resolving challenges facing the country are the crucial to resolving the country's challenges. Much still needs to be done, and the engagement of the international community cannot be over- emphasized. In this regard, we urge the international community, as well as United Nations agencies and multilateral financial institutions, to continue providing resources and assistance for the implementation of projects towards sustainable and long-term development in Timor-Leste.”

    2007-12-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5801 (2007) · source

12. “The report presented to the Council (8/2007/711) covers the following key areas and issues: national reconciliation and democracy, the general security situation and security sector reform, capacity-building; justice and the rule of law, the situation of internally displaced persons, human rights and socio-economic development issues. From the report it is evident that, despite relative progress, Timor-Leste still faces enormous challenges associated with political differences among leaders in resolving critical issues facing the country and socio-economic difficulties associated with widespread unemployment and poverty. In the humanitarian sphere, the plight of the internally displaced persons remains a big task facing the people and Government of Timor-Leste.”

    2007-12-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5801 (2007) · source

13. “During the visit, the mission met with various interlocutors in the Government, including the President, the Prime Minister and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, and with members of the judiciary and the national parliament, and it held a meeting with the leader of the main opposition party and other political parties. The mission also held interactions with non-governmental organizations, women, youth and church representatives and representatives of UNMIT and other United Nations agencies on the ground. The mission also received a briefing from the International Stabilisation Force led by Australia and New Zealand.”

    2007-12-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5801 (2007) · source

14. “South Africa was honoured that Ambassador Kumalo was afforded the opportunity to lead the Security Council mission that visited Timor-Leste from 24 November to 30 November 2007. As was explained last week during our briefing (see S/PV.5791), the purpose of the Visit 2 was to address three issues: first, to encourage the Government, the parliament, the political parties and the people of Timor-Leste to continue to work together and engage in political dialogue and to consolidate peace, democracy and the rule of law, security sector reform, sustainable social and economic development and national reconciliation in their country; secondly, to discuss and exchange views with the Timorese authorities on ways and means to assist the country in developing capacities necessary to build on security and democracy and other gains achieved thus far and to express the Security Council's full support for the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) and the United Nations presence in Timor-Leste; and thirdly, to assess progress made on the ground relating to the implementation of UNMIT's mandate.”

    2007-12-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5801 (2007) · source

15. “It is important that the process continue to receive the full support of the Security Council, in line with Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations. We also join in the support expressed for the draft statement drafted by the delegation of France.”

    2007-11-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5786 (2007) · source

16. “South Africa will continue to contribute to the African Union special task force currently deployed in Burundi and do whatever else is necessary to finalize the facilitation process and bring an end to the conflict. We are aware of the impending deadline of 31 December 2007 for the completion of the facilitation process, after which we are confident that the Regional Initiative and the African Union will reconsider the situation and take appropriate decisions on the way forward. Finally, we commend the work done by the Facilitator, who we know has equally challenging tasks and responsibilities back home. We encourage him and his team to continue on that path, as determined by the Regional Initiative and the African Union.”

    2007-11-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5786 (2007) · source

17. “We therefore join the call for the return of the FNL to the Joint Verification and Monitoring Mechanism, without delay or preconditions, and for all parties to fully implement the Agreement. South Africa is encouraged by the efforts of the Government of Burundi to promote dialogue and national reconciliation, and we call on them to continue on that path. We call on the Security Council and the international community to act in unison in support of the Regional Peace Initiative and its programmes, in particular by supporting the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) of former combatants who have come forward in the DDR process, now estimated at 2,700 combatants. We also call on the international community to exert pressure on the FNL to rejoin the peace process.”

    2007-11-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5786 (2007) · source

18. “South Africa has always believed that only political dialogue and reconciliation can guarantee a sustainable and lasting political solution in Burundi. We will continue to do whatever is necessary to support the efforts of the Facilitator and his team as they undertake their responsibilities. The signing of the Comprehensive Ceasefire Agreement between the Government of Burundi and the PALIPEHUTU-FNL marked a significant milestone in the peace process and has contributed significantly to the overall improvement in the security and political situation in that country. Rightly, the Agreement brought hope to the people of Burundi, as there was a general expectation of peace dividends. We were encouraged by the major breakthrough of bringing the Government of Burundi and the PALIPEHUTU-FNL to sign the Agreement.”

    2007-11-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5786 (2007) · source

19. “We too join in welcoming the Facilitator for the Burundi Peace Process, His Excellency Mr. Charles Nqakula, and we thank him for his briefing to the Council. South Africa notes with appreciation the important role the countries of the region, through the Regional Peace Initiative under the leadership of Uganda, and the African Union have always played in steering the peace process in Burundi towards a lasting and sustainable political settlement. We commend them for the concerted effort they have made to help the people of Burundi realize their goals of peace, security and socio-economic development. South Africa has always been honoured to be called upon to contribute to this process, in order to help steer the peace process towards a sustainable political solution inclusive of all the Burundian people.”

    2007-11-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5786 (2007) · source

20. “Lastly, we continue to hold out hope that the tensions which have arisen in the relationship between the north and south will soon be overcome so that both parties will continue to fully implement the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA). We are convinced that full implementation of the CPA will contribute positively to the lasting resolution of the Darfur conflict.”

    2007-11-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5784 (2007) · source

21. “In this regard we want to stress the need for an ongoing dialogue between the United Nations, the African Union and the Government of the Sudan and, in this regard, we commend the recent meeting of the parties in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. We note the preliminary results of an investigation initiated by the AMIS Force Commander immediately after the attacks on the AMIS military group site in Haskanita. South Africa, which deplores this act, looks forward to the final report of the African Union-United Nations operation. It is important that when the perpetrators have been identified they be brought to justice.”

    2007-11-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5784 (2007) · source

22. “Concerning these outstanding critical capabilities it is clear that we, in Africa, are not in a position to provide them and we appeal to those who can to provide the required capabilities. We are also concerned about the slow pace of the approval of the budget for UNAMID. We agree with Mr. Guehenno's observation on the need to rapidly deploy a robust peacekeeping operation. In this regard, my delegation calls on Member States to consider and approve the Secretary- General's proposed budget for UNAMID. We need to act expeditiously to meet the timelines set out by the Council. Clearly the success of UNAMID depends on the cooperation of all the parties involved.”

    2007-11-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5784 (2007) · source

23. “We appreciate the progress that has been made so far with regard to the implementation of the United Nations-African Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID), especially the initial operating capability for the headquarters which is now established. We urge the United Nations and the African Union to further accelerate this process so as to ensure that the transfer of authority from the African Union Mission in the Sudan (AMIS) can proceed. At the same time, we are concerned at the continued delays with regard to some of the key areas that are critical for the implementation of UNAMID, in particular, aviation, ground transportation, as well as the force composition of the Mission.”

    2007-11-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5784 (2007) · source

24. “The Security Council should be able to take firm action against those who wilfully absent themselves from these negotiations and instead choose to engage in violent actions against the innocent people of Darfur. Another major issue of concern is the presence of the militia and rebel groups in and around some camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs), which has resulted in violence inside these camps. All necessary steps should be taken to ensure the security of the civilian population and the IDPs as well as women and children in Darfur. We must create conditions for humanitarian assistance to reach the sections of the population in need.”

    2007-11-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5784 (2007) · source

25. “South Africa believes that the Abuja Peace Agreement provides the framework for the peaceful resolution of the conflict in Darfur and we share the commitment for the speediest conclusion of the political negotiations and the need to ensure that all the armed groups in Darfur respect international opinion and participate in those peace talks. It is, however, distressing that some of the movements in Darfur decided to stay away from the recent peace conference held in Sirte, Libya. We urge the international community to do everything it can to ensure that everybody joins that process because these talks are a critical element in the solution of the Darfur conflict.”

    2007-11-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5784 (2007) · source

26. “We concur with the observations of the Secretary- General that the situation in Darfur is at a crossroads in that, whereas there is increasing violence in this region, there is also an opportunity for peace through political negotiation and through the deployment of a peacekeeping force that can help make a difference. As we have emphasized on several occasions, the solution in Darfur lies in a political settlement. It is for this reason that we welcome the commitment and the efforts by United Nations Special Envoy Jan Eliasson and African Union Special Envoy Salim Salim to find a political and peaceful solution to the problem in Darfur.”

    2007-11-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5784 (2007) · source

27. “We thank you, Mr. President, for convening this important meeting. We would like to welcome Mr. Jan Eliasson to New York and thank him for the briefing here today. We also thank Mr. Jean-Marie Guehenno for the presentation of the Secretary-General's report. The situation in Darfur has preoccupied the attention of the international community for a while now and I appreciate the efforts by the Secretary- General of making it a priority. The international community also continues to work in concert by trying to find a durable and lasting solution. Nonetheless, the reality is that the situation in Darfur is having a devastating impact on the humanitarian situation on the ground.”

    2007-11-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5784 (2007) · source

28. “In conclusion, we reaffirm our belief that closer cooperation with regional organizations strengthens the implementation of Security Council decisions by widening the collaborative effort of all interested parties in achieving a desired outcome. It is for that reason that we are pleased to be discussing ways and means of enhancing the role of regions in support of the Security Council. Our discussions here will serve as a useful resource on which we could build as we try to find solutions. Lastly, we support the issuance of the presidential statement prepared by the delegation of Indonesia.”

    2007-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5776 (2007) · source

29. “My delegation looks forward to the report of the Secretary-General, as requested by the Security Council in document S/PRST/2007/7, which we hope will include clear proposals on enhancing the relationship with regional organizations, including exploring ways on cost-burden sharing for maintaining international peace and security. Without such clear proposals, the report will not succeed in further advancing the debate beyond the scope of mere rhetoric. What is required are practical steps and concrete proposals on the role of regional and subregional organizations in the maintenance of international peace and security.”

    2007-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5776 (2007) · source

30. “The recent adoption of resolution 1769 (2007) by the Security Council, deploying the African Union- United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID), gives practical expression to the partnership between the African Union and the United Nations, which we hope will go a long way in providing a strong basis for strengthened cooperation between the two organizations. UNAMID represents one of the innovative models of cooperation whereby the African Union and the United Nations can collaborate politically, logistically and financially to resolve one of the intractable conflicts of our time.”

    2007-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5776 (2007) · source

31. “It is for this reason that the African Union has requested the United Nations to explore the possibility of funding, even through assessed contributions, peacekeeping operations that have been deployed with the consent of the United Nations. It is imperative that, as we further define the relationship between the United Nations and regional organizations, we be bold and ambitious in further exploring viable approaches to the question of cost-burden sharing. After all, peace and security in Africa are an integral part of global peace and security. Both the causes and consequences of conflict and instability in Africa have a significant linkage with global developments and relations in the international arena.”

    2007-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5776 (2007) · source

32. “7 At the subregional level, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) continues to play a critical role in ensuring subregional stability. In that context, its Organ on Politics, Defence and Security has undertaken mediation efforts in quelling potential conflicts. SADC has also recently launched the SADC Brigade consisting of military, police and civilian components from all SADC member States, which will form part of the African Union Stand-by Force for rapid deployment should the need arise. The scope for regional peace operations is limited by the lack of funds and logistical capabilities. Fundamentally, the lack of predictable, sustainable sources of funding often hamper well-conceived and well-timed peacekeeping initiatives, with disastrous implications for the communities affected by conflict.”

    2007-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5776 (2007) · source

33. “The African Peace and Security Architecture, launched in 2002, includes mechanisms such as the Peace and Security Council, a Continental Early Warning System, a Panel of the Wise, an African Stand-by Force and a Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development Framework. Those mechanisms articulate a wide range of underpinning norms and values, all aimed at engaging in conflict prevention, resolution and post-conflict reconstruction. It should be noted that the protocol that established the African Peace and Security Council also specifically stipulates that "in the fulfilment of its mandate in the promotion and maintenance of peace, security and stability in Africa, the Peace and Security Council shall cooperate and work closely with the United Nations Security Council".”

    2007-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5776 (2007) · source

34. “Those organizations have greater flexibility to intervene, especially during the initial stages of conflict, and can also be involved in mediation efforts when conflicts arise. The African Union has intervened in some situations in which the United Nations has been unable to intervene, as well as in situations in which rapid interventions by the United Nations have been necessary but not possible. In some cases, the United Nations processes take a long time to finalize at a time when security situations on the ground are deteriorating. In such situations, regional organizations can mitigate those shortcomings on the part of the United Nations through rapid response and intervention. The African Union has developed mechanisms to seek durable peace and sustainable development on the African continent.”

    2007-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5776 (2007) · source

35. “Experience has shown that cooperation between the United Nations and regional organizations can enhance the maintenance of international peace and security. However, that active role of regional organizations should not be perceived as absolving the United Nations, in particular the Security Council, of its Charter-mandated responsibilities for the maintenance of international peace and security. In that regard, we reiterate our belief that we should coordinate our collective security efforts through the United Nations. Regional organizations bring advantages to the maintenance of international peace and security, including through their proximity and an informed understanding of specific conflict situations.”

    2007-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5776 (2007) · source

36. “We would like first to express our appreciation to you, Sir, for participating and presiding over this meeting today. We also welcome the presence of the Secretary-General at this meeting. We welcome this opportunity to once again deliberate the role of regional and subregional organizations in the maintenance of international peace and security. We commend Indonesia for presenting us with another opportunity to further discuss this issue, which is becoming increasingly central to our collective efforts to maintain international peace and security. Over the past few years, the role of regional organizations in the maintenance of peace and security has become increasingly prominent, representing, in our view, a fuller articulation of the provisions of the Charter.”

    2007-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5776 (2007) · source

37. “The South African Government has expressed its deep concern at the recent violence and excessive use of force in Myanmar that led to the loss of life. South Africa is of the view that the long-term solution to the current challenges facing Myanmar lies in a negotiated, inclusive and peaceful political solution through dialogue between the Government and all political actors. We call on the authorities in Myanmar to exercise restraint and to refrain from further acts that may exacerbate the current situation. We welcome the expeditious and concerted manner in which the Human Rights Council acted in response to the situation. We urge the entire international community, in particular the Security Council, to rally behind the Secretary-General and his Special Envoy as they continue with their endeavours.”

    2007-10-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5753 (2007) · source

38. “We thank the Secretary-General for his statement. We also thank Professor Gambari, Special Envoy of the Secretary- General, for his comprehensive briefing on his recent visit to Myanmar. South Africa supported the decision by the Secretary-General to send Professor Gambari, his Special Envoy, to Myanmar, acting in the context of his good offices. We also welcomed the decision by the Government of Myanmar to receive the Special Envoy, and particularly to permit his visit to Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi. We applaud Professor Gambari for his tireless efforts since assuming his role as Special Envoy of the Secretary-General and particularly his efforts aimed at addressing the current developments in Myanmar.”

    2007-10-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5753 (2007) · source

39. “We encourage the Secretary-General of the United Nations and the Chairperson of the African Union Commission to continue to provide leadership and innovation to ensure that the hybrid force is deployed as soon as possible.”

    2007-07-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5727 (2007) · source

40. “Resolution 1769 (2007) gives practical expression to the partnership between the African Union and the United Nations, which, we hope, will go a long way in providing a strong basis for strengthened cooperation between the two organizations. We believe that the Darfur peace process provides the only sustainable chance for the resolution of this conflict, and we urge all parties to participate fully in the mediation meeting soon to be held in Arusha. The positive, forward-looking and constructive approach and the momentum gained through this resolution should be maintained as we embark on the challenging task of bringing peace to Darfur.”

    2007-07-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5727 (2007) · source

41. “We too welcome the presence of the Secretary-General at this meeting. South Africa welcomes the unanimous adoption of resolution 1769 (2007) deploying the first-ever African Union/United Nations hybrid peacekeeping operation. We commend the agreement of the Sudan for the hybrid operation to be deployed in Darfur, as detailed in the conclusions of the high-level African Union/United Nations consultations with the Government of the Sudan in Addis Ababa on 12 June 2007. We also commend the efforts of the African Union and the Government of the Sudan for the successful deployment of the African Union Mission to the Sudan (AMIS), as well as the efforts of Member States and regional organizations that have assisted in its deployment.”

    2007-07-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5727 (2007) · source

42. “South Africa, for its part, will be hosting the United Nations African Meeting on the Question of Palestine from 9 to 10 May 2007, and the Public Forum in Support of Israeli-Palestinian Peace on 11 May 2007, where, it is hoped, the high-level participants will generate ideas to help advance the peace process. South Africa is also willing to assist the Palestinians in their national reconciliation efforts.”

    2007-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5667 (2007) · source

43. “Regarding the situation in Lebanon, we reiterate that all the parties must abide by their commitments under resolution 1701 (2006), in all its aspects and without selectivity. We remain concerned at the fact that Israel continues to violate Lebanese airspace with impunity, and we stress the need for progress with regard to the release of prisoners by both sides. The key to resolving many of Lebanon's problems lies with the achievement of national reconciliation and the fair representation of all Lebanese confessional and ethnic groups in the Lebanese Government. We stress once again that the United Nations Charter has entrusted the Security Council with the mandate to maintain international peace and security.”

    2007-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5667 (2007) · source

44. “Thousands of Palestinian political prisoners remain in Israeli jails, and an Israeli soldier is still being held hostage by a Palestinian faction. We believe that the resolution of the issue of prisoners will contribute to the resumption of serious negotiations aimed at establishing a viable Palestinian State, existing side by side in peace with Israel, within secure and internationally recognized borders. We are also concerned about the continued Israeli incursions in Nablus and Jenin. We urge the Palestinians to uphold the ceasefire and believe that Israel should immediately and unconditionally end all military incursions, acts of collective punishment and the expansion of settlements, and that it should halt and reverse the construction of the separation wall, as required by the international community.”

    2007-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5667 (2007) · source

45. “Professor Dugard points out that the 1973 International Convention on the Suppression and Punishment of the Crime of Apartheid appears to have been violated by many practices, particularly those denying freedom of movement to Palestinians. We also note with deep concern the report submitted by the Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict following her recent visit to the region. The Special Representative reports on Israel's continued detention of Palestinian children and their denial of proper trials. Approximately 400 children are in detention, half of them for minor security or criminal offences. In addition, we would like to express our grave concern at the apparent lack of progress in bringing about an exchange of prisoners between Israel and Palestine.”

    2007-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5667 (2007) · source

46. “The report notes that: "Without a political resolution - and particularly removal of restrictions on movement - improvement in the humanitarian situation is unlikely and millions will remain dependent on assistance." Findings such as these illustrate the point that the United Nations has to deal with the situation in a more comprehensive manner and not merely address the humanitarian consequences of the occupation. The latest report by Professor John Dugard, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, details the systematic human rights abuses and discriminatory practices committed against the Palestinian people.”

    2007-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5667 (2007) · source

47. “The international community should pause to reflect on a situation in which a crippling sanctions regime freezing Palestinian funding that was not authorized by the Security Council or the General Assembly has been imposed on only one party to a dispute. It is a matter of grave concern that those sanctions are undermining the foundations of governance in a non-independent entity that, after 40 years, is still subject to military occupation, and that they are thereby eroding prospects for a two-State solution. My delegation notes that the World Food Programme and the Food and Agriculture Organization have recently prepared a Comprehensive Food Security and Vulnerability Assessment in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. The report presents a bleak account of the humanitarian situation in the occupied territories.”

    2007-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5667 (2007) · source

48. “We urge all parties to maintain and accelerate the momentum and to ensure that the initiatives undertaken thus far translate into tangible progress leading to the establishment of an independent State of Palestine, with East Jerusalem as its capital. It is now incumbent upon the international community to support the fully inclusive and democratic Palestinian Government, and for Israel and other countries to lift the economic and political siege on the Palestinians. Funds owing to the Palestinian National Authority and withheld by Israel, as well as other funding from the international community, are urgently required to alleviate the socio-economic hardships facing the Palestinian people and to support the deteriorating Palestinian institutions.”

    2007-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5667 (2007) · source

49. “We wish at the outset to thank Mr. Lynn Pascoe for his briefing. My delegation is encouraged by the formation of a Government of national unity in Palestine, the resumption of direct talks between the Israeli Prime Minister and the President of Palestine, and the progress made towards reviving the Middle East peace process. We welcome the reaffirmation of the Arab Peace Initiative and the subsequent formation of the Arab Ministerial Committee for that initiative, which was formed to resuscitate and promote the peace process. We look forward to direct interactions between that important Committee and the Security Council.”

    2007-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5667 (2007) · source