YouSaid · the spoken record

Spasse

lines on the record: 253
first: 2022-03-31
most recent: 2023-12-22
sittings or episodes: 56
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

“(S/2023/730, p.16) Albania is concerned that the continued confrontational rhetoric and accusations between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda over the persistent activities of armed groups and support for them can only endanger the fragile cessation of hostilities between the Mouvement du 23 mars and the Forces armées de la République Démocratique du Congo. The regional peace efforts, embodied mainly through the Luanda and Nairobi processes, remain critical for regional stability. We welcome the outcome of the twenty-second extraordinary summit of the East African Community Heads of State, held in Nairobi on 5 September, which reaffirmed the importance of sustainable security solutions through political processes and dialogue among all parties. We hope that the next inter-Congolese dialogue will take place soon.”
2023-10-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9440 (2023) · source
“Unfortunately, since then, the region has faced too many setbacks and has seen little substantial progress. In that respect, I would like to highlight three principal drivers of conflict that, if properly addressed, could become solutions. First, we could not agree more with the report of the Secretary-General in that: “[M]ilitary solutions alone are short-lived and fail to build strong and durable peace. Political will, good faith and a genuine desire to end needless suffering are needed ... in order to make a meaningful difference”.”
2023-10-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9440 (2023) · source
“I join other colleagues in thanking Special Envoy Huang Xia, His Excellency Mr. Caholo and Ms. Malimukono for their briefings. As this is the final biannual briefing to the Security Council on the Great Lakes region in which Albania participates, I would like to share the following messages that reflect not only the latest reporting period, but also an overview of what we have seen as a member of the Council. When Albania joined the Security Council two years ago, the region was witnessing some positive diplomatic momentum. However, back in April 2022, we warned that, despite the ongoing rapprochement between States, the root causes of the conflict were too complex to be considered redressed, and the challenges too steep to be fully overcome.”
2023-10-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9440 (2023) · source
“At this stage, it will be vital to urge regional actors to play a more proactive role in support of United Nations mediation efforts, since the potential risks of a political vacuum in Libya, for its own people and the whole region, are enormous. We must therefore redouble our efforts and support every possible measure that — in full respect for Libyan sovereignty and the intra-Libyan dialogue — can lead us to that objective. To that end, I want to reiterate Albania’s readiness for a smooth renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya later this month.”
2023-10-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9438 (2023) · source
“There is no doubt that the Libyan parties are aware of the need to act in good faith and to strive to reach a compromise for the good of the Libyan people, and that includes addressing the contentious issues through a political settlement. We are deeply concerned about the security situation in Benghazi and the armed clashes there that have caused civilian casualties and disrupted communication. Another reason that the stabilization process in Libya remains a key priority is its impact on the stability of North Africa and the Sahel more generally. We note with concern that the work of Libya’s 5+5 Joint Military Commission with the liaison committees from the Niger and the Sudan has slowed down, owing to the latest developments on the ground.”
2023-10-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9438 (2023) · source
“The Libyan people simply cannot wait indefinitely for the results of endless negotiations. Active and impartial mediation conducted by the United Nations is essential if we want to achieve sustainable stability through elections. We greatly appreciate Mr. Bathily’s efforts and look forward to his intensified engagement with Libyan parties with a view to reaching an inclusive political agreement that can finally pave the way for elections. All the parties involved in the Libyan electoral process must understand that this is not a zero-sum game and that everyone can play an important role in the reconstruction of a reunited Libya.”
2023-10-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9438 (2023) · source
“In the circumstances, we want to emphasize that civil-society organizations and humanitarian and media workers must have unhindered access to the areas affected by the floods. The Derna catastrophe is a dramatic reminder of the country’s desperate need for unified and effective institutions. Libya’s institutional and political fragmentation is a huge hindrance to its ability to provide immediate relief to the population, as we have seen during the aid operations on the ground. We therefore strongly support the establishment of a unified Libyan national mechanism to respond to the floods, and the role of the United Nations is essential in that regard. With the negotiations between the two Chambers at another impasse, we strongly support the initiatives taken by the Special Representative.”
2023-10-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9438 (2023) · source
“I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Bathily for his insights into the recent developments in Libya and for the mediation efforts he is making under the auspices of the United Nations. I would also like to thank Ambassador Ishikane of Japan, in his capacity as Chair of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011), concerning Libya, for his briefing. We were deeply shocked by Storm Daniel’s humanitarian impact and the magnitude of the destruction it caused in eastern Libya, claiming the lives of thousands of people, and we express our sympathy to the families of the victims. We commend the Libyan people for the solidarity they have shown one another — a solidarity that should have been met with humility by all actors across the political spectrum in eastern and western Libya.”
2023-10-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9438 (2023) · source
“Instead — and here is another stark difference — Russia has been using Iranian drones, illegally transferred and in breach of Security Council resolution 2231 (2015). There are serious allegations that Russia is also being supplied with weapons and ammunition by another country under Security Council sanctions — the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. Let us not forget that, while Russia is trying to divert attention to weapons supply to Ukraine, it is weaponizing food, energy, media and everything possible. To conclude, we reiterate our call on Russia to stop the war, withdraw its troops from Ukraine, respect that country’s territorial integrity and engage in dialogue in order to find a solution through negotiations.”
2023-10-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9436 (2023) · source
“Russia has initiated an unprovoked and unjustified military aggression against Ukraine, threatening European security, with an economic and humanitarian impact worldwide. We remain committed to supporting Ukraine politically, diplomatically, economically and militarily in its defence of its country, the Charter, peace and security in Europe and the international rules-based order. Article 51 of the Charter constitutes a clear legal basis for individual States to offer whatever assistance to a country exercising its inherent right to self-defence and defence of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. We reiterate that the transfer of arms to Ukraine has been conducted in accordance with national legislation, the Arms Trade Treaty, the obligations arising from those instruments and the assessment of the risk of diversion.”
2023-10-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9436 (2023) · source
“I thank Mr. Ebo for the briefing. Just a few days ago, the Security Council held an urgent meeting on the horrible attack in Hroza, Ukraine, which killed at least 52 innocent people. Today, once more, and in a déjà vu scenario, Russia is calling for another meeting on the same subject that has been discussed so many times. Let us be clear, in the very same way that we have been in every meeting on this issue. While the issue is the weapons supply, the core issue is what one does with the weapons, and the difference could not be starker. Russia is using its weapons to kill the people of another country, in disregard of international law and the Charter of the United Nations. Ukraine is using them for self-defence, on the basis of international law and the Charter. That is why Russia should be condemned, and Ukraine should be supported.”
2023-10-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9436 (2023) · source
“In that vein, we commend the Government’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with regional and international partners, with a focus on reinforcing economic connections and addressing climate change, water scarcity, terrorism and drug trafficking. We welcome the update on the handover of Kuwaiti property, which marks a positive development, and we call on the Government of Iraq to build on that momentum and intensify efforts to locate the remaining missing property. In conclusion, we commend the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq for its role in assisting Iraq in finding sustainable solutions, and we reiterate our appreciation and support for the valuable work done by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and her team.”
2023-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9432 (2023) · source
“Albania stands firmly for religious freedom and peaceful dialogue and emphasizes the role of political and religious leaders in countering hate speech, discrimination and religious hatred. Turning to Iraq’s security situation, Albania remains concerned about the ongoing attacks, particularly by Da’esh, and supports the Government’s endeavours to establish State control over armed militias. We firmly support Iraq’s territorial integrity and sovereignty and oppose any attempts to undermine its political independence and stability. Iraq’s engagement with its neighbours to enhance regional cooperation is commendable.”
2023-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9432 (2023) · source
“The contribution of all components of society, including women and young people, is essential for genuine progress and prosperity. In that context, we echo the High Commissioner’s emphasis that gender and women’s empowerment are universal values that should not conflict with culture, religion or tradition. The protection of human rights must also be integral to the Government’s reform initiatives. In that regard, we are encouraged by its efforts to compensate survivors eligible under the Yazidi female survivors law, as well as to care for the most vulnerable, especially returning Iraqis and internally displaced persons. We cannot but express concern about acts targeting religious symbols, such as Qur’an burnings, as they contribute to tensions and radicalization and may result in violence.”
2023-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9432 (2023) · source
“We encourage the Government to move swiftly in the key priority areas of the fight against corruption, the diversification of the economy, confidence-building for the private sector and the green transition. We applaud the Government of Iraq and the Independent High Electoral Commission for their determination to hold provincial council elections, scheduled for 18 December 2023, and parliamentary elections in the Kurdistan region of Iraq, scheduled for 25 February 2024. Albania also welcomes the workplan initiated by the relevant Supreme Committee, which includes various measures, such as addressing hate speech against women candidates and advocating for an electoral code of conduct among political parties. A democratic nation embraces diversity and offers equal opportunities, regardless of gender.”
2023-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9432 (2023) · source
“Let me start by thanking Special Representative Hennis-Plasschaert for her factual briefing on the current situation in Iraq. I also appreciate the insights shared by Ms. Al-Jarahi and welcome the representative of Iraq to this meeting. On behalf of Albania, I would like to offer our deepest condolences to the people of Al-Hamdaniya in the light of the tragic fire incident that occurred on 27 September. Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families, and we stand in solidarity with Iraq, wishing all those injured a swift recovery. Albania commends the Government of Iraq for its continued commitment to the reform agenda and its shift from a security focus to an economic one.”
2023-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9432 (2023) · source
“We commend the leadership shown by Kenya and the readiness of the Caribbean Community to take part in the Mission, responding to the Secretary-General’s appeal and Haiti’s request. Albania voted in favour of the resolution today, recognizing the vital role that the Mission will play in re-establishing security and creating the conditions for free and fair elections in Haiti. That is also a significant step towards addressing the humanitarian crisis in the country. We envision the Mission as working closely with the Government of Haiti in compliance with international law, international humanitarian rights law and international standards. In conclusion, Albania stands firmly with Haiti and its resilient people and is committed to assisting in the restoration of normalcy.”
2023-10-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9430 (2023) · source
“Let me start by thanking you, Sir, and the members of the Security Council who expressed their appreciation for the presidency of Albania. At the same time, I would like to congratulate Brazil on assuming the presidency of the Security Council and wish you and your team the best of luck. We welcome the presence of Minister Généus of Haiti and of the representatives of Kenya, Guyana and Jamaica. Albania expresses its deep appreciation to the United States and Ecuador as co-penholders for leading the negotiations and to Council members for engaging constructively in the resolution authorizing the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission to Haiti (resolution 2699 (2023)) to support the Haitian National Police in restoring security.”
2023-10-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9430 (2023) · source
“I would like to remind all speakers to limit their statements to no more than three minutes in order to enable the Council to carry out its work expeditiously. Flashing lights on the collars of the microphones will prompt speakers to bring their remarks to a close after three minutes. I now give the floor to the representative of Qatar.”
2023-09-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9418Resumption1 (2023) · source
“Here, we believe the role of international cooperation is very important. The implementation of Financial Action Task Force standards is vital in cutting off financing for terrorist purposes. In conclusion, Albania reiterates its commitment to fighting terrorism and to successfully implementing the four pillars of the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy, in particular the fourth pillar concerning human rights and the rule of law.”
2023-08-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9405 (2023) · source
“We welcome the United Nations work in this area, including the support provided by the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to Yazidi survivors who experienced conflict-related sexual violence. We must invest more in victims’ protection programmes. Countering terrorism is a priority we all share. Albania supports a whole-of-society approach that respects human rights, aligns with international law, is gender-sensitive and addresses the root causes of terrorism and violent extremism. We also welcome an emphasis on interreligious and intercultural dialogue as effective tools in preventing and fighting terrorism. In that respect, we should also focus our efforts on the implementation of resolution 2462 (2019) in order to counter the financing of terrorism.”
2023-08-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9405 (2023) · source
“That requires effective repatriation, prosecution, rehabilitation and reintegration programmes, in which gender considerations need to be incorporated. The use and consequences of sexual and gender- based violence committed by Da’esh are deeply concerning. The report of the Secretary-General on the threat posed by Da’esh to international peace and security and the range of United Nations efforts in support of Member States in countering the threat (S/2023/568) notes that many victims of terrorism, particularly those who have experienced sexual or gender-based violence perpetrated by Da’esh, continue to face stigmatization, with children born out of rape severely affected.”
2023-08-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9405 (2023) · source
“Despite significant leadership losses and United Nations coordinated efforts in fighting terrorism, Da’esh has continued to expand its activities, particularly in Africa, where it is nurtured by existing conflicts and local grievances. We remain concerned about the increase of such activities in Afghanistan. It is very important to prevent the country from becoming a haven for terrorists, and we urge the Taliban to adhere to their commitments made in that regard. We are concerned about the dire humanitarian situation of the detainees in Al-Hol and Al-Roj camps, particularly about the situation of women and children. They require the urgent attention of the Council and other United Nations agencies. We believe that United Nations members should repatriate their nationals in line with their obligations.”
2023-08-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9405 (2023) · source
“I thank Under-Secretary- General Voronkov and Executive Director Gherman for their briefings. I would also like to thank Ms. Farida Khalaf for sharing with us her bitter yet touching experience. Albania condemns all forms and shapes of terrorism. And we express our condolences to the families of victims of terrorist attacks. We share the Secretary-General’s assessment that the threat of Da’esh and affiliates to peace and security remains high in conflict zones. Terrorist organizations continue to find new ways to use emerging technology to carry out deadly attacks targeting United Nations peacekeepers, civilians and civilian infrastructure. That must be stopped.”
2023-08-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9405 (2023) · source
“While Russian missiles are destroying hundreds of thousands of tons of grain in the Odesa region, which should have been shipped through the grain corridor, hunger and poverty will hit the most vulnerable countries in Africa and South-East Asia. That is why this war must end. That is why Russia should put an end to it. Until then, the support for Ukraine should continue, with the hope that Russia will realize that the best solution is for it to withdraw all its troops from Ukraine and engage seriously in peace talks.”
2023-08-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9399 (2023) · source
“If the war continues, calculations show that in the next three to five years, Ukraine will lose approximately 2 million tons of agricultural production each year, which will amount to approximately $1.5 billion in losses. There are many ways to inflict pain on civilians during a war. Russia is using them all: killing them in their houses, destroying vital infrastructure and now assaulting their food. In that way, Russia is punishing not only Ukrainians but also many around the world who risk not having enough food for their families. Global prices are rising, and food security problems will only worsen in the short term. Countries with a heavy dependence on imports will continue to experience shortages, which could cause political instability in many parts of the globe through geopolitical conflicts and famine.”
2023-08-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9399 (2023) · source
“It cannot disguise the killing and suffering of innocent civilians. According to the recent report of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, 48 civilians have been killed and another 210 injured as a result of the aggression during the first two weeks of this month alone. Russia continues its attacks on Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure. After withdrawing from the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Russia is deliberately attacking ports and grain warehouses in order to make grain exports from Ukraine impossible in the future. It knows that those acts constitute war crimes, but they fit with its aims.”
2023-08-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9399 (2023) · source
“On the other hand, Russia, a permanent member of the Security Council, is using weapons illegally procured from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and Iran, thereby blatantly violating the resolutions of the Security Council. Let me emphasize that Albania has aligned itself with the decision of the Council of the European Union (EU) of 20 July on a new sanctions framework in view of Iran’s military support to Russia, which prohibits the export from the EU to Iran of components used in the development and production of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). It also provides for a travel ban and asset-freeze measures that could be imposed against persons responsible for supporting or involved in Iran’s UAV programme. No distorted narrative — however hard one tries to impose it — can change the reality in Ukraine.”
2023-08-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9399 (2023) · source
“We reiterate that Article 51 of the United Nations Charter provides a very clear legal basis for individual States to offer any kind of assistance to a country exercising its inherent right to self-defence in protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The arms transfer to Ukraine has been conducted in accordance with national legislation and the Arms Trade Treaty, and with the obligations that arise from conducting it, as well as an assessment of the risk of diversion. An ad hoc commission, established by the Ukrainian Parliament, is responsible for monitoring the entire process, so that weapons are used for defence purposes and do not fall into the wrong hands.”
2023-08-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9399 (2023) · source
“That is what 143 United Nations Member States have strongly and clearly spelled out — more than once. As we have heard several times here and just heard again from Under-Secretary-General Nakamitsu, the arms transfers to Ukraine are open data. Everything is legal, justified and for the right cause. The Ukrainian people are fighting fiercely, defending their country and its sovereignty, freedom and independence. Those are the core principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the Helsinki Final Act, including that borders may not be changed by force. The international community is helping Ukraine in that regard, based on international law and the United Nations Charter.”
2023-08-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9399 (2023) · source
“Let me start by thanking High Representative Nakamitsu for her briefing. Here we are at another meeting on Ukraine, on a topic that we have discussed many times before. The Security Council was unable to adopt a programme of work for this month because of the meeting planned on Ukraine. At least for now, two meetings have been scheduled on a subject that according to Russia cannot be allowed to be included in our programme of work. We wonder if this is not just a tactic to create a kind of inflation in the work of the Security Council on the issue and create a derogatory sense of Ukraine in the United Nations. It will not work. An unprovoked and unjustified military aggression against a United Nations Member State is not routine. And a threat to European security, with a worldwide economic and humanitarian impact, cannot be taken lightly.”
2023-08-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9399 (2023) · source
“That interaction helps them gain insights into regional and national causes of conflict, which can contribute to enhancing early-warning systems. To achieve lasting peace, the relationship with the host nation must be inclusive and multifaceted. In conclusion, we must continue to support and strengthen the efforts of United Nations peacekeeping missions in their vital role of preventing and responding to conflicts and to foster global peace and security. I have a question for our military colleagues: how do they adapt their strategies and tactics to effectively engage in dialogue and relations with local actors, including armed groups, to prevent violence against civilians?”
2023-07-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9389 (2023) · source
“Hence the need for enhanced collaboration between Member States and the United Nations to include the agencies, funds, programmes and other United Nations legislative bodies to develop and implement an integrated prevention strategy. United Nations peacekeeping understands that the most effective and sustainable way of protecting civilians is to address the root causes of conflict and ensure stability, peace and security. Those goals can be attained by implementing early-warning systems and conflict-prevention initiatives and by taking steps to address misinformation and disinformation. The presence of United Nations peacekeeping missions in outlying areas provides them with first-hand knowledge, enabling them to interact and communicate with local communities.”
2023-07-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9389 (2023) · source
“That complexity poses challenges for peacekeepers to ensure their own safety. If peacekeepers are not protected, they cannot protect civilians. In that context, we applaud the critical efforts made by United Nations peacekeeping missions to protect civilians, particularly women and children who live in displaced persons camps. To prevent violent conflict, all States must adhere to international humanitarian law, and Security Council members have a special responsibility in that regard. Strengthening the rule of law and societies’ resistance to violent conflict is also vital. Despite increasing efforts, conflict prevention and response remain inadequate.”
2023-07-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9389 (2023) · source
“I join my colleagues in expressing my condolences to Ghana on the loss of its peacekeeper earlier today. I thank Under-Secretary- General Lacroix and the Force Commanders of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon for their valuable insights. Albania supports the efforts of United Nations peacekeeping military components in preventing and resolving conflicts, safeguarding civilians and upholding peace. Their contribution to global peace and security, especially during times of war, uncertainty and crisis, is indispensable. However, the growing numbers of non-State armed groups, such as rebels, militias, criminal organizations and violent extremists, have added complexity to conflicts.”
2023-07-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9389 (2023) · source
“It requires respect for rights, freedoms and dignity, which in our view, can be achieved through the two-State solution, a secure Israel and a viable and democratic Palestine, living side by side with full and equal rights. It represents the best prospect for the stability, peace, security and prosperity of the more than 400 million people in the wider region and a precious contribution to peace and stability worldwide.”
2023-07-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9387 (2023) · source
“Everyone should condemn terrorism and violent extremism. We strongly condemn the settlers’ violence against Palestinian civilians and call for a full investigation and accountability for those responsible. In that regard, I would like to reiterate our concern for the impact the increase in violence is having on women and children. We also reiterate our concerns about the plans to advance settlements. They contradict international law and are an impediment to peace efforts. We call for the implementation of resolution 2334 (2016) and the strict observance of international law. All unilateral steps that obstruct peace and the viability of the two-State solution must be withdrawn. Let me conclude by recalling that the end of the conflict in the Middle East requires genuine and sustained efforts for peace, development and prosperity for all.”
2023-07-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9387 (2023) · source
“For that to happen, the parties must first commit seriously and resolutely to de-escalation, just as they did in Aqaba and Sharm El-Sheikh, where they committed to refraining from unilateral steps. But commitments have real meaning only if they are kept and implemented, not just because they are voiced or written. We condemn any and all acts of indiscriminate violence against civilians and recognize the right of Israel to self-defence. We reiterate that every security operation should strongly abide by the principle of proportionality and be in full respect of international humanitarian law. We call on the Palestinian youth to distance themselves from the instigation of violence and extremism. Young people should lead the change on the ground for themselves and for the future of Palestinian generations.”
2023-07-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9387 (2023) · source
“Let me start by thanking Assistant Secretary-General Khiari for the information he provided. The recent developments in the West Bank continue to be troubling and disturbing. We are almost at a loss for the words to deplore the pervasive cycle of violence and its consequences, but we will never lose the will and desire to call for restoring the political horizon as soon as possible. The fact is that the situation is not sustainable, and it can only lead to more violence and hopelessness if not properly and quickly addressed. We have said it many times, and we will reiterate it now. Only a clear perspective on peace for both sides, Israelis and Palestinians, will help reduce the violence, bloodshed and never-ending suffering.”
2023-07-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9387 (2023) · source
“We believe that it is time for this Council to act and work to address this issue. Attacks against civilian and critical infrastructure, including infrastructure related to grain exports, must come to an end. We also call on Russia to engage and remove its obstacles to the flow of grain exports through the Black Sea. Let us not forget that deliberate attacks against critical infrastructure constitute war crimes. Perpetrators must be held to account. This continued deliberate destruction policy only reinforces the need to continue supporting Ukraine militarily, politically, and economically for its self-defence until proper conditions for peace are created — a peace fully in line with the Charter of the United Nations that respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.”
2023-07-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9386 (2023) · source
“Russia’s intense drone and missile attacks against Odesa sought to damage the port infrastructure, including its grain and oil terminal. The bombardment inflicted serious damage to export facilities and destroyed at least 60,000 tons of grain. First, Russia withdrew from the Black Sea Grain Initiative, playing with the anxiety of millions unsure of having food in the coming days and weeks; now it wants to destroy ports, export facilities and even silos full of grain. By blocking and bombing Ukrainian seaports and preventing freedom of navigation in the Black Sea, Russia is not only preventing Ukraine from exporting its grain and agricultural products; it is condemning millions to food insecurity in many parts of the world, mostly in developing countries in the Global South, and is again trying to weaponize food.”
2023-07-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9386 (2023) · source
“As of 20 July 2023, UNESCO verified damage to 116 religious sites, 27 museums, 95 buildings of historical and artistic interest, 19 monuments, 12 libraries and one archive. Last week, Russian missiles destroyed the Odesa Transfiguration Cathedral, built in 1794. It was not the first time this Cathedral suffered a vicious attack. The Kremlin had already attacked it under Stalin, in 1936. Eighty-seven years later, illegally acquired Iranian drones, used by the Russian army, would hit it with the same intention, to destroy it. The cathedral is one of several historical parts of central Odesa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I wonder what explanations Russia will come up with, as it never wastes an opportunity to pretend that Russia never attacks non-military targets.”
2023-07-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9386 (2023) · source
“In a war that has lost its way, as part of a policy that has no meaning and as a terrible result of an erratic judgement since the start, Russia is targeting everything: innocent people, including children; residential areas; civilian infrastructure and cultural heritage. All these amount to war crimes. With its latest decision to kill the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Russia is again disrupting the food supply chain. As if that were not enough, it is intentionally targeting ports and grain storage facilities. Russia’s intention to target the Ukrainian national identity: its history, architecture, language and culture has never been a secret. It is fully in line with the Kremlin’s policy, according to which Ukraine is not a nation and does not have the right to exist.”
2023-07-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9386 (2023) · source
“It is just freedom — a fundamental right that Russia is trying to steal through sheer violence. Everything else is only a consequence of that brutal use of force. We believe that religious leaders anywhere should work for peace, social cohesion and peaceful coexistence. It is their commitment and their duty. We expect them to be a strong voice of reason and humanity and not become an extension and instrument of the State and its action. And, as we have seen to our regret, that is not done by blessing Russian tanks on their way to kill innocent people in Ukraine. They would better off trying to stop them in the name of the humanity for which they pretend to work.”
2023-07-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9385 (2023) · source
“We are used to the practice of what has proved to be “meetings of opportunity” that Russia has been calling regularly on Ukraine. Most of the time they fail to bring forward an issue worth the discussion and the attention of the Council, since the intention is to divert the attention away from the real issues — the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine and its disastrous consequences. Today’s meeting about the Ukrainian Orthodox Church falls into the same category. Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is clear — everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. Albania fully supports freedom of religion and belief anywhere, including in Ukraine. But the real problem in Ukraine today is not freedom of religion.”
2023-07-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9385 (2023) · source
“We commend ECOWAS for its tireless efforts and engagement with States to strengthen good governance and the rule of law, and we anticipate the recommendations of the Independent High-Level Panel on Security and Development in the Sahel.”
2023-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9384 (2023) · source
“Thirdly, the humanitarian situation remains dire. The Sahel is grappling with escalating food insecurity, climate change implications and displaced persons, with humanitarian assistance reaching unprecedented levels. Albania calls for a holistic approach that addresses the multifaceted challenges facing the region, spanning the security, governance and development nexus. We also stress the need to address the adverse impact of climate change and its implications for regional security. In that regard, we call on Council members to engage constructively on the presidential statement and demonstrate our united commitment to the region. In conclusion, I would like to express our dedication to achieving peace and stability in the Sahel region.”
2023-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9384 (2023) · source
“As reported by the Secretary-General, violations against civilian populations in the conduct of counter-terrorism operations remain of serious concern. It is frustrating that approximately 10,000 schools across Burkina Faso, Mali, the Niger and Nigeria were closed or non-operational due to violence. Women and girls are the most vulnerable to sexual violence and abduction. We call upon West African and Sahel States to enhance cross-border cooperation, working with the United Nations, the African Union, ECOWAS and the Group of Five for the Sahel to strengthen security and peacebuilding efforts. Strict adherence to human rights and international humanitarian law is crucial in all military activities. We express concern over the partnership with the Wagner Group, which poses a significant threat to those principles.”
2023-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9384 (2023) · source
“We urge the transition authorities to strengthen cooperation and advance outstanding benchmarks in order to ensure a return to constitutional order within the agreed timelines. Albania welcomes the Peacebuilding Commission’s advice of 20 July emphasizing the urgent need to address the region’s root causes of conflict by ensuring democratic consolidation and good governance, the rule of law, respect for human rights, gender equality, sustainable development and the inclusion of civil society. Secondly, the security situation is increasingly perilous, with expanding terrorism, transnational organized crime, intercommunal violence and illicit financial flows. Violent extremist groups in Mali and Burkina Faso continue to target military and civilian infrastructure, resulting in severe human rights violations.”
2023-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9384 (2023) · source
“However, the shrinking of the civic and political space remains worrisome. Albania underscores the importance of inclusive political dialogue and consensus-building among all stakeholders in order to sustain the progress achieved thus far. We express concern about the continuous underrepresentation of women in political processes and call on Governments and political parties to prioritize women’s empowerment through legislation and effective implementation of established mechanisms. In that respect, we commend the steps undertaken by Benin and Liberia aiming at increasing women’s representation in their respective parliaments. Furthermore, the ECOWAS mediation of political transitions remains crucial.”
2023-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9384 (2023) · source