Sofija Korac
Adviser
U.S. Mission to the United Nations
New York, New York
November 18, 2019
AS DELIVERED
Thank you, Chairperson.
The ideas underpinning this resolution have no basis in international law and do not advance the promotion and protection of human rights.
We emphasize the longstanding principle that it is the responsibility of States to protect and promote human rights and fundamental freedoms. The text of this resolution inappropriately challenges the sovereign right of States to determine their economic relations and to protect legitimate national interests, including taking certain related actions in response to national security concerns.
It also attempts to undermine the international community’s ability to respond to acts that are offensive to international norms. Economic sanctions are a legitimate means to achieve foreign policy, security, and other national and international objectives, and the United States is not alone in that view or in that practice.
For these reasons, we request a vote and we will vote against this resolution.
Thank you, Chairperson.
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