Ministry Statements & Speeches:
Mr President,
New Zealand is once again disappointed that a veto has blocked a resolution which had the near-unanimous support of the UN Security Council.
We acknowledge efforts to reach consensus in the Security Council, however we simply must do better.
The situation in Gaza remains untenable. An immediate ceasefire is urgently needed, including to facilitate a surge of essential humanitarian assistance throughout the Gaza Strip.
Ultimately, no military solution will bring about a just and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians. A negotiated political solution is needed to achieve lasting peace and security for Israel and Palestine. Diplomacy can work where there is political will.
New Zealand welcomes the recent announcement of a ceasefire in Lebanon and acknowledges the efforts of all the parties involved in the negotiations.
This breakthrough in Lebanon demonstrates the value of diplomacy and negotiation.
In Gaza however, the conflict continues, and Palestinian civilians continue to pay the price. They deserve an immediate ceasefire, unimpeded access to humanitarian aid, and an end to the spiralling tensions.
Mr President, any use of the veto is highly disappointing.
We underline that every time this outdated and undemocratic mechanism is invoked, it undermines the Council’s ability to fulfil its mandate to maintain international peace and security.
New Zealand has been a vocal and consistent opponent of any use of the veto since 1945.
We have actively supported the Veto Initiative from its inception, and we remain a proud proponent of 76/262.
The Council is not living up to its important ongoing responsibilities under the UN Charter. It’s credibility, and that of the United Nations as a whole, is at stake. We invite the Permanent Members to reflect on that responsibility.
Finally, Mr President,
If resolution 76/262 is re-activated in the future, it will once again be incumbent on members of the General Assembly to continue to exercise our collective political responsibility under the UN Charter to address matters of international peace and security.
Thank you.