YouSaid · the spoken record

Van Oosterom

lines on the record: 1,049
first: 2013-08-19
most recent: 2019-10-29
sittings or episodes: 159
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

“In that regard, the opening of crossings and easing of restrictions on the movement of goods and persons in and out of Gaza are also needed, while taking into account Israel's legitimate security concerns. We continue to express our full support for the efforts of the United Nations and Nickolay Mladenov to improve the situation in Gaza. We welcome the recent improvement in the electricity supply. The Kingdom of the Netherlands remains committed to doing its part. Let me give three examples: first, an additional contribution of â‚¬6 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East for this year; secondly, our continued investment in the Gas for Gaza project; and thirdly, through our trilateral meetings on water, energy and crossings.”
2018-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8405 (2018) · source
“They must refrain from any action that could provoke an escalation, that would put civilian lives at risk and that would jeopardize recent efforts towards reducing tensions and a long-term truce. We reiterate that all parties must comply with their obligations under international law. We condemn the indiscriminate firing of rockets. We reiterate that Israel must ensure that all its responses are proportionate and necessary at all times, in line with its obligations under international law. It has been said many times that the recent escalation cannot be seen in isolation and only reminds us that a sustainable solution for Gaza is needed, as Mr. Mladenov has also just said. The humanitarian and economic situation must be improved.”
2018-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8405 (2018) · source
“Allow me first to thank Mr. Nickolay Mladenov for his informative briefing and for his tireless efforts and those ofhis team, working sometimes under very difficult circumstances. Today, I will address three points: first, the situation in Gaza: secondly, the developments in the West Bank: and thirdly, the way forward. First, on Gaza, we are deeply concerned by the flare-up of violence that we witnessed at the beginning of last week. We welcome the efforts of the United Nations, Egypt and others that led to an agreement to restore calm. It is now up to the parties to maintain that restoration of relative calm. All parties must exercise maximum restraint.”
2018-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8405 (2018) · source
“Following the advice of the Group of Eminent Experts on Yemen, we also call upon the international community, including the countries of the League of Arab States, to stop delivering arms to this theatre of war and its main combatants. We must now focus on immediately addressing the famine and finding a peaceful and sustainable political solution to this terrible conflict. The Council should fully support the efforts of Mr. Lowcock and Mr. Griffiths. That is what the people of Yemen need from the Council.”
2018-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8404 (2018) · source
“Griffiths has already attended meetings with a number of women representatives. The fact that the men are the ones fighting does not mean that only the men must make peace. We need the proud women of Yemen to be fully involved in the peace process. They know what is needed for all of the people of Yemen. In conclusion, we are extremely concerned about the millions of Yemeni people on the brink of starvation. We call on all parties to work together to make humanitarian access possible and to bring about a humanitarian ceasefire now so that people in need can be reached. It is urgent that the Council support OCHA's five asks.”
2018-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8404 (2018) · source
“The countries with influence over the parties to the conflict should use their position to ensure successful talks. The talks must be inclusive and should also address local grievances in Yemen. We commend Sweden for its willingness to host the talks, we thank Kuwait for its offer of logistical support and we thank Oman for its constructive role. We thank Ms. Jarhum for her briefing, which underlined both the conflict's effect on women and the determination of women to contribute in a meaningful way to peace and a better Yemen. Resolution 1325 (2000) can guide us in that regard. First of all, the horrible violence against women and girls, as described by Ms. Jarhum, must stop, but that is not enough. We call on the parties to include women in their delegations. We are pleased that Mr.”
2018-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8404 (2018) · source
“Perpetrators must, and will, be held accountable, not only to provide justice for victims in the future but also to deter offences in the present. In that context, we are grateful for the ongoing work of the Human Rights Council's Group of Eminent Experts on Yemen and of the sanctions committee Panel of Experts on Yemen. My third and final point is the need for a political solution. To respond to OCHA's fifth ask, I can say that both the European Union and the Netherlands fully support the tireless efforts of Mr. Griffiths to achieve a sustainable political solution. As others have said, all parties should participate in the talks in Sweden without preconditions. And they should work with Mr. Griffiths in good faith and in a constructive manner.”
2018-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8404 (2018) · source
“We therefore welcome the announcement just made by the United Kingdom that it will circulate a draft resolution on Monday endorsing those five asks. It is the Council's responsibility to take a firm stance against the persistent violations of international humanitarian law, like the ones we see on a daily basis in Yemen. We need to stand up for the brave humanitarian personnel; they should never be the target of attacks. Humanitarian access must not be politicized by the parties to the conflict. And all parties should make it possible for the United Nations to collect objective data in order to draw up reliable needs assessments based on the real needs of the people. The international community should continue to raise its voice against impunity.”
2018-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8404 (2018) · source
“First, as an initial step towards the full cessation of hostilities, a humanitarian cease-fire is the only way to prevent mass starvation. Secondly, in order to protect the supply of food and essential goods across the country, all routes need to be opened for those goods. Thirdly, we need a larger and faster injection of foreign exchange into the economy through the Central Bank. We welcome the recent injection, as Special Envoy Griffiths just described. Fourthly, the humanitarian operation needs increased funding. The Kingdom of the Netherlands is doing its share in that regard. And, fifthly, there must be full engagement with the Special Envoy to end the conflict. The Council should support those five asks.”
2018-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8404 (2018) · source
“In the event of renewed escalation, the port of Al-Hudaydah might become inaccessible to any ship carrying commodities that are vital to a population in need. The port is an essential lifeline for millions of Yemeni people. On many occasions, we have also expressed our concern over Houthi missiles targeting civilians in Saudi Arabia. Those missiles attacks should stop. That brings me to my second point - the responsibility of the international community. Secretary- General Guterres has said it very clearly: it is time to act. The international community must do its utmost to protect civilians in times of conflict. The most effective way to do so is for the Council to fully support the five requests from the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). Let me reiterate them and express how we see them.”
2018-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8404 (2018) · source
“In that context, the end of extreme hunger in Yemen ultimately depends on our collective political will. The situation in Yemen is compounded by interference with United Nations depots, continued air strikes and indiscriminate shelling. Those attacks have led to damage to critical civilian infrastructure and to water, sanitation and health facilities, as Mr. Lowcock just described. In general, depriving civilians of objects indispensable to their survival - indeed, starving civilians intentionally as a method of warfare - is under no circumstance permissible; it may even constitute a war crime. We took note of Mr. Lowcock's remarks about the current lull in the fighting around Al-Hudaydah, which must become permanent. The year-long partial blockade is already creating essential shortages.”
2018-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8404 (2018) · source
“We thank Martin Griffiths, Mark Lowcock, David Beasley and Rasha Jarhum for their impressive and convincing briefings. They presented us with a grave description of the humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Their strong words underline the urgency of the Security Council's action and decision-making. They made it clear that we need a peaceful, sustainable political solution. In that context, I will focus on three issues - first, conflict and hunger; secondly, the responsibility of the international community; and, thirdly, the urgent need for a political solution. On my first point, there is a vicious cycle of conflict and hunger in armed conflicts around the world. In May (see S/PV.8267), the Council unanimously adopted a resolution we facilitated (resolution 2417 (2018)) that called on all of us to break that cycle.”
2018-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8404 (2018) · source
“The Kingdom of the Netherlands remains a committed partner of the countries of the Sahel in the areas of security, diplomacy and development. As our Minister for Foreign Affairs, Stef Blok, said during his recent visit to the Niger, we intend to increase our diplomatic presence and support for the region. As international partners, we must adopt a firm and modest attitude that respects the leadership and ownership of the G-5 Sahel countries.”
2018-11-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8402 (2018) · source
“Therefore, the success ofinitiatives in the Sahel will depend on key elements, such as boosting the confidence of local populations and ensuring accountability, respect for human rights, close cooperation between the Joint Force and strong national judicial systems, and the complementarity of development and security efforts. In conclusion, I would like to stress the importance of the role of the G-5 Joint Force in making the Sahel a more stable and secure region. That is precisely the model of regional ownership that is needed for the maintenance of international security and peace. The G-S donors conference for development initiatives scheduled for 16 December will be an important milestone. In particular, investment is needed in fragile border areas.”
2018-11-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8402 (2018) · source
“The security efforts of the Joint Force, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali and other actors, including European Union missions, will be insufficient. We must invest more in conflict prevention. To prevent violent extremism, we must attack the root causes of the conflict, including climate change, which leads to water scarcity and desertification and, as a result, food insecurity and competition between farmers and herders. Persistent inequalities and discrimination against particular regions or communities are also sources of conflict. In addition, we must keep in mind the enabling factors and triggers identified by the United Nations Development Programme in its report entitled Journey to Extremism in Africa, on the disproportionate use of State violence.”
2018-11-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8402 (2018) · source
“We reaffirm that it is not only resources that are needed. Force-absorption capacity and the coordination of support and requests are also factors to be considered. It therefore remains critical to strengthen the capacity of national armed forces. On my third point, the link between security and development, this week we held a discussion with Mr. Sidikou, the Ambassadors of the G-5 countries and interested Council members on preventing violent extremism in the Sahel. I am pleased to see the Ambassadors ofthe G-5 countries here today. It became very clear during that meeting that all partners in the Sahel are pursuing the same objective, namely, regional peace and stability.”
2018-11-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8402 (2018) · source
“The results obtained in recent months by the members of the G-5 Sahel are admirable, especially since they had to overcome serious problems, such as the attack on their headquarters in Sevare. We commend the leadership of the Nigerian presidency in that regard. The time has come to intensify efforts towards the standing up of the Joint Force. In particular, we advocate the operationalization of its police component and its cooperation with national anti-criminal networks. We welcome recent progress in the implementation of the human rights compliance framework. The prevention of human rights violations requires constant attention and commitment, and the members of the G-5 Sahel must fully take on that responsibility. Bilateral and regional partners are considering increasing their support for the Joint Force.”
2018-11-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8402 (2018) · source
“As a result, new regions are under threat, particularly the north and east of Burkina Faso - and even beyond the Sahel. In addition, the increase in intercommunal violence has complicated the situation. That is evident in central Mali, as the Council has been informed several times this year. The evolving threats calls for evolving responses. The emergence of violent local conflicts requires deeper knowledge of local dynamics, while the regional challenges require a regional approach and regional cooperation. Therefore, it is critical that the Council discuss today its support for the G-5 Sahel Joint Force. That brings me to my second point i the operationalization of the J ointForce.”
2018-11-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8402 (2018) · source
“Mr. Van Oosterom (Netherlands) (spoke in French): First and foremost, allow me to thank the briefers for their excellent statements, which give a clear picture of the cooperation of the United Nations, the African Union and the European Union with the Group of Five for the Sahel (G-5 Sahel). Given the current situation, such cooperation is critical. Today I would like to address three points. First, I will highlight concerns about the changing security environment. Secondly, I will mention the operationalization of the G-5 Sahel Joint Force. Thirdly, I will focus on the link between security and development in the Sahel. First, with regard to the security situation, the Kingdom of the Netherlands is concerned about reports of increased cooperation among terrorist networks in the Sahel.”
2018-11-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8402 (2018) · source
“We would like to thank France for its leadership in facilitating the negotiations for the renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). In recent weeks we have had extensive and important discussions on the situation in the Central African Republic, including on how to improve MINUSCA's role in the political process and its mandate to protect civilians. The Kingdom of the Netherlands fully supports the draft text that France initially put in blue. It maintains the Mission's troop ceiling and priority tasks, as well as its logistical support to the Central African Republic armed forces. We hope it will be possible for the Council to adopt that text as a draft resolution very soon.”
2018-11-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8401 (2018) · source
“However, political will and the efforts of all strata of Kosovar society remain necessary to push forward in strengthening the rule of law and improving the daily lives of citizens. High-profile cases must be treated with the utmost scrutiny and precision. We encourage Kosovo to keep reforming its judiciary. Kosovo needs to embrace its responsibilities and ensure accountability at the national level, as we encourage the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo to hand over responsibilities to Kosovar authorities. In conclusion, Kosovo has come a long way since its independence 10 years ago. We encourage Kosovo to keep building up its institutions. We have full faith in its ability to handle its affairs as a sovereign nation.”
2018-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8399 (2018) · source
“The Council set a welcome example by reducing the frequency of our discussions to twice a year. We call upon the Secretary- General to adjust his reporting cycle accordingly. Secondly, we believe that it is possible for the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) to downscale its operations. We therefore call once more for a strategic review of UNMIK, in coordination with all the relevant actors. Such a review should align the Mission to the situation on the ground. My third and final point is on the rule of law. We appreciate Kosovo's progress in strengthening its judiciary. We welcome the launch of Justice 2020 and the functional review. Those are positive examples of efforts to increase performance and accountability.”
2018-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8399 (2018) · source
“We thank Ambassador Tanin for his briefing just now; we also thank High Representative Mogherini and the European Union for facilitating the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina. Those efforts should, in turn, be rewarded with the strong commitment from Serbia and Kosovo, in good faith, towards the normalization of their relations. The Kingdom of the Netherlands believes that it is high time to recognize Kosovo's considerable progress since 2008. In that context, I will focus on three issues: first, the reporting cycle; secondly, the strategic review; and, thirdly, the rule of law. First, the current situation in Kosovo clearly allows for a reduction of the Secretary-General's reporting cycle. We also encourage a shift of format from briefings to closed consultations.”
2018-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8399 (2018) · source
“That includes its decision, stated in resolution 2023 (2011), by which Eritrea must cease using illicit means to collect taxes outside Eritrea. Finally, we welcome the renewal of the Somalia sanctions measures as essential support to the Somali Government in its efforts to deliver stability and security in Somalia. We especially welcome the addition of stand-alone sanctions criteria for sexual and gender-based violence. Those who commit such heinous acts should know that today the Council showed its commitment to responding to such practices. In conclusion, as others have done, we condemn in the strongest terms the horrific terrorist attacks in Mogadishu last Friday.”
2018-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8398 (2018) · source
“Those are important steps, and we encourage Eritrea to build on that momentum to give impulse to domestic governance reforms, including reform of the economy, the national service, democratization and human rights. In particular, we call on Eritrea to cooperate better with international mechanisms, especially those related to human rights. The positive developments in the Horn ofAfrica do not relieve the Council of its responsibility to monitor progress closely. In particular, we underline the need for concrete steps in the normalization of relations between Eritrea and Djibouti. That is why we welcome the Council's decision to remain seized of the matter by asking for regular reporting on this important issue. We also emphasize that the Council's other decisions and demands regarding Eritrea remain valid.”
2018-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8398 (2018) · source
“I would first like to welcome our colleagues from Djibouti, Somalia and Eritrea to the Council. The Kingdom of the Netherlands has a long-standing and strong commitment to peace and development in the Horn of Africa. That is why we voted in favour of resolution 2444 (2018) today. We see our decision as a tribute to the positive developments that have taken place in the region. The peace agreement between Ethiopia and Eritrea represents a historic step. It paves the way for improved bilateral relations and stronger regional peace and stability. We welcome Eritrea's decision to start engaging with the international community and working to consolidate the peace agreement.”
2018-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8398 (2018) · source
“The Kingdom of the Netherlands continues to support Bosnia and Herzegovina's Euro- Atlantic integration in order to ensure the future prosperity and security of its people and the region. That future depends on the political leaders of Bosnia and Herzegovina and their will to reconcile, cooperate and conclude highly needed political compromises. In short, it depends on their will to truly lead. The time to do so is now.”
2018-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8392 (2018) · source
“Thirdly and finally, I will address stability. It is a precondition for strengthening the rule of law and a precondition for upholding the civilian aspects of the Framework Agreement. The European Union-led peacekeeping force Operation Althea is key in supporting the authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina in maintaining a safe and secure environment for its citizens and maintaining stability in the region. We therefore welcome the unanimous adoption today of resolution 2443 (2018), renewing the mandate of Operation Althea. In conclusion, in his first report to the Security Council, the first High Representative, Carl Bildt, wrote that lasting peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina "requires a genuine commitment to the building of a future in common" (S/1996/J90, para. 104). That observation still holds truth today.”
2018-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8392 (2018) · source
“We also call on the authorities to amend the election law, and State institutions must continue to function properly. Secondly, I turn to the High Representative and his Office. With the rule of law under pressure and rhetoric thriving, upholding the civilian aspects of the General Framework Agreement for Peace becomes even more crucial, and the engagement of the Office of the High Representative becomes even more pertinent. The circumstances for closure of the Office are not yet there As was pointed out by Mr. Inzko, Bosnia and Herzegovina has made limited progress in completing the 5+2 agenda. The Kingdom of the Netherlands remains steadfast in its support for the High Representative and his Office. Twenty-three years after it establishment, the work is far from done - unfortunately, I would like to add.”
2018-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8392 (2018) · source
“We have seen some responsible steps taken since then, such as the passing of amendments to the criminal procedure code, but serious concerns remain. Erosion of the rule of law is a threat to any democracy. When in combination with divisive and revisionist rhetoric, such as that which we continue to see in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it becomes a toxic mix. We therefore call on the authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina to strengthen the rule of law in their country, and to do so convincingly and at all levels. Let me reiterate that the divisive and revisionist rhetoric of political leaders is conducive neither to reconciliation and cooperation, nor to the political need to make compromises. We underline the points on accountability in that context that were just made by our American colleague.”
2018-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8392 (2018) · source
“I would like to thank Mr. Valentin Inzko for presenting his twentieth report (S/2018/974, annex) as High Representative, a sobering milestone. We highly value his dedicated personal efforts and persistence in carrying out his mandate for the greater good of the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Kingdom of the Netherlands aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the observer of the European Union later this morning. I will focus on the following issues: first, the rule of law; secondly, the Office ofthe High Representative; and thirdly, the issue of stability. First, with regard to the rule of law, in the previous debate on this item in the Council in May (see S/PV.8248), we expressed concerns about the rule of law in Bosnia and Herzegovina.”
2018-11-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8392 (2018) · source
“They have been attacked on the ground by the Syrian regime while engaging in purely humanitarian efforts, and those attacks are unacceptable.”
2018-11-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8390 (2018) · source
“We must not allow ourselves to miss the Window of opportunity offered by the situation in Idlib for the actual convening of the constitutional committee. It should be used as the starting point of a broader, sustainable political process on the basis of resolution 2254 (2015). The Kingdom of the Netherlands pleads for the convening of the constitutional committee as soon as possible, before the end of the year and before the departure of Special Envoy Staffan de Mistura. We call on all parties, particularly the Syrian regime, to cooperate constructively with the United Nations to prevent further delays in the political process. In conclusion, with reference to the statement delivered earlier by our Russian colleague on the White Helmets, we reconfirm our point of view that the White Helmets are brave humanitarian workers.”
2018-11-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8390 (2018) · source
“We welcome the reduced level of violence in Idlib after the Turkish-Russian memorandum of understanding. We are concerned, however, by the recent statement of the Syrian representative here in the Council that "[we will] fully recover Idlib when we deem it necessary" (S/PV8383, p. 15). An escalation of violence in Idlib by the regime would lead to a humanitarian catastrophe. It would reconfirm that the regime in no way prioritizes protecting the Syrian people. Citizens in Idlib deserve protection. A military confrontation will undermine lasting stability and peace. We call on Turkey and Russia to involve the United Nations in the implementation of the humanitarian side of the memorandum of understanding.”
2018-11-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8390 (2018) · source
“As long as the Council is prevented from referring the situation in Syria to the ICC, we will continue our efforts for accountability elsewhere - in the OPCW, the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism, the commission of inquiry and the International Partnership against Impunity for the Use of Chemical Weapons. We emphasize that the archiving for the OPCW- United Nations Joint Investigative Mechanism Joint Investigative Mechanism's is done on the basis of the applicable United Nations rules and procedures, as Ms. Nakamitsu shared with us during a previous meeting on chemical weapons in Syria (see S/PV.8174). A letter from the Office for Disarmament Affairs or the Secretary-General has no added value, and for that reason we cannot support the Russian request for a letter. Thirdly, I will speak on political developments.”
2018-11-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8390 (2018) · source
“The Kingdom of the Netherlands welcomes the memorandum of understanding on cooperation between the Technical Secretariat of the OPCW and the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism to Assist in the Investigation and Prosecution of Persons Responsible for the Most Serious Crimes under International Law Committed in the Syrian Arab Republic since March 2011. The possibility for the OPCW to share information with the Mechanism can make an important contribution to combating impunity in Syria. It is therefore an important first step towards accountability. We remain convinced that a referral of the situation in Syria to the International Criminal Court (ICC) is by far the best option. It is the best way to achieve accountability for the most serious crimes that have taken place in Syria.”
2018-11-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8390 (2018) · source
“It also puts the overall functioning of the OPCW at risk. We call on the Russian Federation to engage constructively and to demonstrate support for the solemn purpose of the OPCW - and that purpose is to eradicate chemical weapons worldwide under a United Nations mandate. Secondly, I turn to the need for accountability. Syrians deserve justice. Impunity for chemical weapons use cannot be allowed. Accountability for chemical weapons used in Syria is neither optional nor negotiable. The use of chemical weapons is never permitted by anyone under any circumstance. Therefore, upholding the international non-proliferation regime is crucial. That norm has been endangered by the Syrian regime. We look forward to the final report on the attack in Douma on 7 April to be published before the end of the year.”
2018-11-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8390 (2018) · source
“The Kingdom of the Netherlands reiterates the importance of the outcome of the fourth special session of the Conference of the States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention on 27 June. An overwhelming majority of member States reconfirmed and strengthened the standard against the use of chemical weapons by deciding on the establishment of an attribution mechanism. The Kingdom of the Netherlands therefore praises the Director-General of the OPCW for his commitment to implementing that decision expeditiously. The Kingdom of the Netherlands expresses great concern about the obstructive attitude of the Russian Federation during the recent budget discussions in the OPCW. By frustrating the discussions on the OPCW budget for 2019, the Russian Federation is trying to delay the legitimate establishment of the attribution mechanism.”
2018-11-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8390 (2018) · source
“I thank Ms. Nakamitsu for her informative briefing. I will focus on three points: first, our support for the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW); secondly, accountability; and thirdly, political developments. First, I will address our support for the OPCW and the establishment of the attribution mechanism. We thank the Secretary-General for the sixty-first OPCW report (S/2018/971, annex), and we support the objective and professional work of OPCW Fact-finding Mission in the Syrian Arab Republic. It remains unacceptable that, almost five years after Syria joined the Chemical Weapons Convention, its declaration can still not be verified as accurate and complete.”
2018-11-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8390 (2018) · source
“Ensuring the implementation of these and all sanctions is key. We therefore draw the attention of all Member States to the Council's call in this resolution to implement the travel ban and the assets-freeze measures against those individuals and to report to the Committee on the steps they have taken.”
2018-11-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8389 (2018) · source
“Sexual and gender-based violence, particularly against migrants, constitutes an increasingly worrying problem in Libya that requires a strong response. The issue of sexual Violence in Libya is directly connected to the issues ofpeace and security in Libya that we are discussing here today. The addition of this designation criterion is an important step towards addressing the issue. The need for it was also underlined by many during the Arria Formula meeting on the issue on 22 October, not only in regard to Libya but across the Council's sanctions regimes and beyond. This year the Committee put sanctions in place against seven specific individuals. Six of them concern the first-ever sanctions on human traffickers. They were proposed by the Kingdom of the Netherlands and partners inside and outside the Council.”
2018-11-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8389 (2018) · source
“As this is my first public meeting here this month, please allow me to honour your presidency, Sir, by trying to say this in Chinese. (spoke in Chinese) Thank you, Mr. President. (spoke in English) First of all, let me take this opportunity to thank the United Kingdom for its diligent efforts in coordinating the drafting of resolution 2441 (2018). In our opinion, the Libya sanctions regime is a crucial element of the Council's efforts to support peace and stability in Libya. We welcome the fact that today's resolution extends the regime, including the mandate ofthe Panel of Experts of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011), by another 15 months. We welcome in particular the addition of a new sanctions criterion for sexual and gender-based violence, pursuant to a proposal made by Sweden and us.”
2018-11-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8389 (2018) · source
“We commend Morocco, the Frente Popular para la Liberacion de Saguia el-Hamra y de Rio de Oro, Algeria and Mauritania for their positive and prompt responses. We stress the importance of their continued constructive engagement with the Personal Envoy with the aim of resuming direct negotiations in good faith and without preconditions. We must now capitalize on the existing momentum to relaunch the political process, for which the continued engagement of the Council is indispensable. We also recognize the importance of the work of MINURSO in maintaining stability on the ground and creating the conditions for political progress to take place. We express our full support for the Special Representative of the Secretary- General for Western Sahara, Mr.”
2018-10-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8387 (2018) · source
“Our common ambition must therefore be to arrive at a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution that will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara in the context of arrangements that are consistent with the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations. In that regard, we reiterate our full support and appreciation for the efforts of the Personal Envoy of the Secretary- General for Western Sahara and former President of Germany, Mr. Horst Kohler. Significant steps have been taken since the last renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) in April. In that regard, we welcome the Personal Envoy's initiative to host a round table in Geneva in December.”
2018-10-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8387 (2018) · source
“We voted in favour of resolution 2440 (2018) and we thank the United States, as penholder, for the facilitation of the resolution. The fact that the resolution could not count on the unanimous support of the Council should not, in our opinion, distract us from what we believe is truly important, namely, the relaunching of the political process. That is something that - having listened to my colleagues who have already spoken - I believe all of us on the Council strongly support, because the relaunching of the political process is in the interests of the people, the parties involved and the wider region.”
2018-10-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8387 (2018) · source
“In the meantime, we call on all parties to take all the necessary measures to de-escalate military tensions in the Sea of Azov.”
2018-10-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8386 (2018) · source
“My third point centres on the security situation in the broader Black Sea region in the wake of the Russian Federation's illegal annexation and militarization of the Crimean peninsula. The Russian military presence in the Sea of Azov increased recently. The militarization of the Sea of Azov can only destabilize the delicate security situation in the wider Black Sea region. Additionally, the Russian Federation has started inspecting commercial vessels in the Sea of Azov heading to and from Ukrainian ports. The resulting lengthy delays only add to the economic damage inflicted on south-eastern Ukraine by the illegally constructed Kerch Strait Bridge. The Kingdom of the Netherlands welcomes Ukraine's decision to seek arbitration under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. We hope for a peaceful settlement of the dispute.”
2018-10-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8386 (2018) · source
“In its latest report, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights recorded a 30 per cent increase in civilian casualties as compared to the previous reporting period. Both landmines and unexploded ordnance remain an everyday threat to civilians in the conflict area. Civilian infrastructure has been heavily damaged. Power and water supplies are insecure. In the 6 June presidential statement (S/PRST/2018/l2), the Council called for United Nations agencies to address the humanitarian situation in eastern Ukraine. The Kingdom of the Netherlands calls on all parties to ensure that the United Nations and international humanitarian organizations can be fully operational in the non-Government- controlled areas. As Assistant Secretary-General Mueller said today, civilians are not a target.”
2018-10-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8386 (2018) · source
“Russia must play its part by ending its financial and military support to the separatists and by withdrawing its armed forces and military equipment from Ukrainian territory. My second point pertains to the humanitarian situation in the non-Government-controlled areas. The Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has made tireless efforts to ensure that all parties respect the Minsk agreements, including the ceasefire and withdrawal of heavy weapons. We commend the courageous work of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission in often dangerous circumstances. Meanwhile, the population in the affected areas continues to suffer.”
2018-10-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8386 (2018) · source
“In that regard, the so-called elections are not only illegitimate, but also run counter to the letter, spirit and commitments of the Minsk agreements and are a clear setback to the peace process. The Minsk agreements remain the only viable and accepted path to peace. The Kingdom of the Netherlands calls on the parties involved to refrain from any actions, such as the holding of so-called elections, that would obstruct the implementation of those agreements. We call on Russia to bring its considerable influence to bear to stop the so-called elections from taking place, in the interests of the peace process and of the civilians who suffer the daily consequences of the conflict.”
2018-10-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8386 (2018) · source