Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Syria (via VTC)

The United States has worked tirelessly with partners to push for a change in the political dynamics that afflict this Council and continue to deny the Syrian people a path toward peace, stability, and hope. This Council is failing millions of civilians of Syria, not just today but for more than a decade. It is …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Cooperation between the UN Security Council and the League of Arab States (via VTC)

The United States also values our important partnership with the League. We thank the League of Arab States for working with us as we mutually seek a stable, prosperous, and secure Middle East. This includes the League’s ongoing engagement in a range of protracted conflicts that continue to threaten regional stability and create multiple complex …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Yemen (via VTC)

I have to say, though, that the U.S. view is that it is sad, but true, that the political process, which has now been ongoing for many years, has produced limited results – despite the heroic efforts of the Special Envoy and his team. That compelled the United States to believe it had to look …

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Remarks by Ambassador Kelly Craft to Model UN Students in Taiwan (via VTC)

The United States believes that Taiwan is a force for good in the world, and that is very true. It is also true that young women and men, like you, deserve to pursue careers and opportunities, and on the international stage, including in organizations such as the World Health Organization, where your expertise has been …

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Remarks by Ambassador Kelly Craft before a Virtual Meeting with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen (via VTC)

Taiwan has been an inspiration for the region, and might I add, for the world. Your courage and your vision only reinforce Taiwan’s global reputation. There are quite a number of nations represented in the UN who should look at Taiwan – not for opportunities to exclude it, but for reasons to aspire to be …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on the 20th Anniversary of Resolution 1373 (via VTC)

Finally, it’s hard to believe it’s been 20 years since the horrific events of 9/11, but I just want to begin by remembering the innocent lives lost that day – all victims of terrorism. As well as remember, with gratitude, the heroic actions of the first responders who saved so many lives on 9/11.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in West Africa and the Sahel (via VTC)

This past fall, UNOWAS played an integral role in supporting free and fair presidential elections in five West African nations. The COVID-19 pandemic complicated the situation, and we extend our appreciation to you, and your team, for your tireless support of long-term stability and security in the region. Though much work needs to be done, …

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MEDIA NOTE: Ambassador Kelly Craft’s Travel to Taiwan

Ambassador Kelly Craft will travel to Taipei January 13-15 for meetings with senior Taiwan counterparts and members of the diplomatic community. During her trip, the Ambassador will reinforce the U.S. government’s strong and ongoing support for Taiwan’s international space, in accord with the U.S. one-China policy that is guided by the Taiwan Relations Act, the …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on Fragile States (via VTC)

Fragile states are often characterized by their vulnerability to armed conflict, large-scale violence, or other instability – including the inability to manage transnational threats. Fragility can result from ineffective and unaccountable governance, weak social cohesion, and corrupt institutions or leaders who do not respect human rights.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Chemical Weapons in Syria (via VTC)

The Security Council, we believe, has a responsibility to ensure that there are serious consequences for those who use chemical weapons. We cannot remain silent nor allow chemical weapons and their use to become normalized or acceptable. The United States condemns in the strongest terms the use of chemical weapons by the Assad regime, often …

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Explanation of Vote by Ambassador Kelly Craft on the 2021 United Nations Program Budget

Today, this body is poised to adopt a budget that reflects such an accommodation that extends a shameful legacy of hate, anti-Semitism, and anti-Israel bias. The United States rejects this effort and called for this vote to make clear that we stand by our principles, stand up for what is right, and never accept consensus …

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Explanation of Vote in the Fifth Committee on the United Nations 2021 Program Budget

My delegation would like to call for a recorded vote on draft resolution three, program budget for 2021 A/C.5/75/L.19. We do that because the United States cannot in good conscience support a budget that further perpetuates anti-Semitism and anti-Israel bias and refuses to recognize the rightful re-imposition of sanctions on Iran. We appreciate the tireless …

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Remarks to the Fifth Committee on the Implementation of Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015)

The United States made clear, both in statements and in a letter to the President of the Security Council in September, that previously lifted United Nations sanctions measures on Iran have been re-imposed, pursuant to the process outlined in Security Council Resolution 2231.

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Remarks to the Fifth Committee on the Program Budget Implications for the Durban Conference

Mr. Chairman, the United States remains firmly committed to combating racism and racial discrimination in all its forms and to working with civil society, international mechanisms, and all nations in pursuit of this goal. However, we cannot agree to the creation of an official event during the general debate of the 76th General Assembly commemorating …

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Explanation of Vote in the Fifth Committee on the International, Impartial, and Independent Mechanism for Syria

Those familiar with the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism for Syria – also known as the ‘Triple I-M’– know the critical nature of the work that it performs. And those familiar with this year’s negotiations in the Fifth Committee know that a small number of delegations have repeatedly insisted on depriving the Mechanism of the …

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Explanation of Vote on a Draft Resolution on the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur

The United States recognizes the contributions and leadership of the United Nations and the African Union, as well as the many troop and police contributing countries that helped protect civilians and advance peace in Darfur. We also recognize the 288 UNAMID personnel who paid the ultimate price in advancing peace and security for the region …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Resolution 2231 (via VTC)

Yet, as Iran continues to flout this Council’s resolutions, too many Council members, unfortunately, are eager to ignore or overlook Iran’s disregard for the restrictions that the Council has put in place, including those which the United States has re-imposed through our legitimate snapback process.

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Education for Democracy

The United States believes that education is transformational for individuals and societies, and that it creates pathways to better health, economic growth, a sustainable environment, and peaceful, democratic societies. On November 15, 2018, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) announced a new education policy aimed at focusing resources on programs that produce measurable learning …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Middle East (via VTC)

Recognizing the impasse we found ourselves in, President Trump presented a bold new vision for Middle East peace – a realistic, detailed plan to resolve the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, while making Israelis, Palestinians, and millions of others in the region both safer and more prosperous.

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Explanation of Vote on a Draft Resolution on the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The United States strongly supports the Council’s efforts to enhance the Force Intervention Brigade and strengthen MONUSCO’s performance, consistent with the request of the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for a better-equipped, better-trained and more mobile peacekeeping force.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on Cooperation between the UN Security Council and the International Court of Justice (via VTC)

We appreciate the opportunity to address the relationship between the Court and the Security Council and the complementary role these principal organs play in the maintenance of international peace and security. The ICJ plays a vital role in promoting and preserving the rule of law, and in advancing international peace and security through the peaceful …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Afghanistan (via VTC)

Sadly, just like our last session, the people of Afghanistan continue to face terrible violence in their country. The rocket attack on November 21, that killed eight people and wounded over thirty near Kabul’s Green Zone, is one of the latest crimes committed by ISIS. The last few months have also seen barbaric attacks on …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Political Situation in Syria (via VTC)

As 2020 comes to a close, there is little to celebrate in Syria, and much to mourn. More than nine million Syrians need food assistance, the largest number since the outbreak of the conflict nearly a decade ago. We must not forget that it was Russia and China that forced this Council to slash the …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in South Sudan (via VTC)

Mr. President, today the United States welcomes progress in implementing the Revitalized Peace Agreement, forming a national unity government and building institutions. We also welcome the December 9 announcement by South Sudan’s presidency of an agreement to promptly appoint officials to state and local government and the Transitional National Assembly. The United States looks forward …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (via VTC)

We remain extremely concerned about the Mechanism’s reporting about genocide denial, the non-acceptance of historical facts, and the glorification of war criminals. We must do more to fight such rhetoric, particularly in the Balkans, and we condemn efforts by political leaders to distort historical facts and to use their platforms to increase divisions and exacerbate …

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Fact Sheet: Reforming the Human Rights Council

It would be a grave mistake for the United States to return to the Council before it is reformed. History tells us that reforming the Human Rights Council from within does not work. The ideas below are commonsense and have broad and bipartisan support. As the General Assembly’s comprehensive review of the Human Rights Council …

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on Global Health and Foreign Policy and Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing

This month, we passed the one-year mark since the reported emergence of COVID-19, and it is unacceptable that we still have very little information on how it began and spread so quickly among the population in Wuhan, China.

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the Graduation of Vanuatu from Least Developed Countries Category

The United States would like to thank Fiji for its leadership on this important resolution. We would also like to congratulate Vanuatu on this milestone achievement. Vanuatu’s graduation from Least Developed Country status is an accomplishment to celebrate, even more so considering the unprecedented social and economic impact Vanuatu faced due to COVID-19 and Cyclone …

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Joint Statement on the Human Rights Situation in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea

The egregious human rights situation in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) is well known to the international community and has been documented, inter alia, by reports of the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights (OHCHR), the Commission of Inquiry on Human Rights in the DPRK (COI) as well as the Special …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Syria Chemical Weapons (via VTC)

Given the comments of our Russian colleague that proceeded my own, I need to begin by saying, the United States strongly supports the leadership and the impartial and independent work of the OPCW. We applaud the OPCW Technical Secretariat. We believe it conducts its work in a professional manner and carries out its mission in …

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MEDIA NOTE: Ambassador Kelly Craft to Propose Reforms for the UN Human Rights Council

On December 14 at 1:30 p.m., Ambassador Kelly Craft will join the Heritage Foundation and the American Enterprise Institute for a live conversation, entitled “How to Fix the Broken UN Human Rights Council.” Ambassador Craft will propose reforms the Council must make to merit U.S. membership. The event will be livestreamed.

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Explanation of Vote on a UN General Assembly Resolution on the Situation in Afghanistan

When the Taliban signed the February 29, 2020 agreement to enter into negotiations with the Islamic Republic, it publicly and explicitly agreed to prevent al-Qa’ida and other terrorist groups from using the soil of Afghanistan to threaten the security of the United States and its allies. The Taliban recognized the legitimate concerns about international terrorism …

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Remarks at a Meeting of the UN Peacebuilding Commission on Sierra Leone

As we have heard from other briefers and delegations today, Sierra Leone has persevered through adversity and demonstrated extraordinary progress in maintaining peace, strengthening democracy, and laying the foundation for economic growth. The people of Sierra Leone have shown tremendous resilience and the capacity to rebuild after crises, including a devastating civil war and the Ebola outbreak just years ago.   

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing by the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court on Sudan (via VTC)

We have been encouraged by the concrete steps parties in Sudan have taken to build a more stable, secure, and human rights-respecting future. We are particularly pleased that Sudan’s civilian-led transitional government, the Sudan Revolutionary Front, and other groups signed a landmark peace agreement aimed at ending almost two decades of conflict. This important step …

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Joint Statement on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, We, the above listed signatories of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, established and adopted in 1948, recommit ourselves today to the Declaration and its foundational ideal that certain principles are so fundamental as to apply to all human beings, everywhere, …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Arria-Formula Meeting on Local Implementation of Youth, Peace, and Security (via VTC)

The United States remains committed to enhancing the implementation of the Youth, Peace, and Security agenda, both within the UN system and externally with youth leaders and civil society through inter-generational dialogue. But, it is not just dialogue. I like the way it was put by one of the panelists today: an intergenerational co-leadership. I …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Central Africa (via VTC)

Of all the countries under your purview, as was noted earlier, perhaps one of the greatest concerns is Cameroon, where more than 6.2 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance – 2.3 million people more than at the beginning of the year. Cameroon is facing multiple crises, including terrorist attacks in the Far North, …

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Remarks at a UN General Assembly Debate on Oceans and the Law of the Sea and on Sustainable Fisheries

While our concern is global, freedom of the seas is especially threatened in the South and East China Seas. The assertion of unlawful and sweeping maritime claims – including through ongoing intimidation and coercion against long-standing oil and gas development and fishing practices by others – threatens the rules-based international order that has enabled the …

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Explanation of Position on the Adoption of the Second Committee Resolution Quadrennial Comprehensive Policy Review

The United States supports national ownership and leadership in setting a country’s development goals and priorities, and we expect UN entities to uphold UN values and principles in their work to support national development efforts. During humanitarian crises, it is important for the UN and national governments to embrace humanitarian principles and prioritize addressing the …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Looking forward, the United States is focused on three key areas of the Council’s work in the DRC: First, the need for more progress on disarmament, demobilization, as well as reintegration and security sector reform; second, the full implementation of reforms to improve peacekeeping performance; and third, strategic planning for MONUSCO’s responsible drawdown and transition.

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Introduction to the U.S. National Statement at a UN General Assembly Special Session on COVID-19

One of the most critical challenges before us all in confronting COVID-19 is a lack of transparency. It was a lack of transparency that prolonged the pandemic and compounded its death and misery. For almost exactly one year, we have been calling for full transparency and cooperation with the international scientific community.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on UN-AU Cooperation (via VTC)

The African Union has proven itself, time and again, an indispensable partner to the United Nations on the African continent. In recent years, we have deepened cooperation between the UN and the AU, recognizing each organizations’ distinct advantages, shared values, and common interests. Together, we are firmly committed to the spirit of the 2030 Agenda …

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Statement in a Meeting of the Fifth Committee on Agenda Item 141: Umoja

The United States would like to express its appreciation to all who worked on this, the twelfth progress report of the UMOJA project. The United States would also like to express its appreciation to all who have worked, and continue to work, to bring the Umoja enterprise resource planning platform to life.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on Security Sector Reform (via VTC)

Effective security sector governance is vital to any nation’s long-term growth, stability, and security. Additionally, successful security sector reform must encompass all elements of a country’s security sector, including the military, the police, border security, and justice systems.

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Joint Statement in Response to a Russian-Hosted Arria-Formula Meeting on Ukraine

Russia held a meeting at the UN today on what Russia claims is the status of the implementation of the Minsk agreements. This meeting was a transparent attempt to present a false and misleading narrative regarding the conflict in eastern Ukraine. We strongly reject Russia’s premise that it is acting as a mediator within an …

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Statement in Commemoration of All Victims of the Second World War

World War II inflicted unspeakable pain and suffering for tens of millions who fell victim to that horrendous chapter of mankind. And 75 years later, we still feel this impact. This is why the United States is proud to join the global community in commemorating the anniversary of the end of the war.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Arria-Formula Meeting on Sanctions (via VTC)

The United States imposes sanctions to address bona fide threats to national security and foreign policy interests, such as to deter threats to international peace, stability, and security, including to counter terrorism, deter nuclear and conventional weapons proliferation, constrain abusive and radical regimes, and to promote accountability for human rights abuse and corruption.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Political and Humanitarian Situation in Syria (via VTC)

The Assad regime and its allies, including permanent members of this Council, would greatly prefer that the world ignore your briefings, pretend that Resolution 2254 is obsolete, believe somehow that political and humanitarian conditions in Syria are stabilizing, and that the conflict is over. Sadly, the realities cannot be obscured and must not be ignored.

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Remarks at an Arria-Formula Meeting Commemorating the 25th Anniversary of the Dayton Peace Accords (via VTC)

The United States commends Bosnia and Herzegovina, like many of the other speakers, for reaching the milestone of 25 years of peace since signing the Dayton Accords. The agreement created a framework to rebuild and provide a stable and prosperous future for the people of the country. In that spirit, the United States envisioned a …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the Sustainable Development of the Caribbean Sea for Present and Future Generations

The United States refers delegations to our general statement, delivered on November 18, with respect to references to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Paris Agreement, climate change, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, and the Sendai Declaration.

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Explanation of Position on Operative Paragraph 10 Amendment in “Protection of Global Climate for Present and Future Generations of Humankind”

The United States offers a very simple amendment which reads “reaffirming the commitment to achieve sustainable development in its three dimensions – economic, social, and environmental – in a balanced and integrated manner.” These words should be very well known to everyone in the room as they come directly from the 2030 Agenda. We propose …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Iraq (via VTC)

Last fall, Iraqis took to the streets in unprecedented numbers demanding political and economic reforms, with many protestors killed and injured. One year later, the COVID pandemic, economic hardship, increased regional tensions, and rising security threats have only reinforced the need for those reforms. The Iraqi government has responded, in part, by calling for early …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Agriculture Development, Food Security, and Nutrition

The United States does not recognize any change in the current state of conventional or customary international law regarding rights related to food. The United States is not a party to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Accordingly, we interpret this resolution’s references to the right to food, with respect to States …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the New Urban Agenda and Strengthening of the United Nations Human Settlements Program

Regarding our position with respect to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, the Paris Agreement, climate change, the New Urban Agenda, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and inclusive growth, we refer you to our general statement delivered on November 18.

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on Combatting Sand and Dust Storms

As we noted last year, the United States would like to raise our concerns with the workload of this committee. We believe we can improve our ability to consider our work more thoughtfully if we were to address the issue of periodicity and triennialize and biennialize a number of resolutions. There is not enough meaningful …

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on Eradicating Rural Poverty

The United States is a leader in the alleviation and eradication of poverty in all its forms and dimensions, and it is unfortunate that this text undermines the international community’s good work focused on eradicating poverty and injects unneeded political distractions into our important conversation on this issue.

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on International Migration and Development

The United States objects to this resolution for a number of reasons, in particular its focus on a role for the UN in advancing global governance of migration and development, a role that impinges on state sovereignty and should be strictly reserved for member states, subject to their existing international obligations and commitments.

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the Promotion of International Cooperation to Combat Illicit Financial Flows

The resolution places too much attention on the return of confiscated proceeds of crime. Effective asset recovery requires detection, investigation, and prosecution as well as cooperation between Member States. Attention and resources must be devoted to establishing competent domestic legal and regulatory frameworks and institutions necessary to facilitating the proper detection and investigation of criminal …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Ensuring Access to Affordable, Reliable, Sustainable, and Modern Energy for All

Energy access is an extremely important issue for the Trump Administration, and we feel these paragraphs over-emphasize renewable energy to the exclusion of other affordable, readily available and durable options for improving energy access. Energy access should not become a vehicle for promoting green politics that will prolong and worsen the hardship of people who …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the Implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity

As we noted last year, the United States is concerned that language in this resolution does not accurately reflect decisions made by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Parties at the 14th Conference of the Parties in November 2018. Such approaches do a disservice to implementation of the Convention. Where language in this resolution is …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the Implementation of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

The United States urges once again that any future UNCCD-related resolutions must accurately reflect the will of the UNCCD Parties by recognizing and utilizing their agreed language. In instances where language diverges from relevant text decided by the UNCCD COP, we will only accept the COP text.

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Water for Sustainable Development

The United States joins consensus on this resolution with the express understanding that PP8 does not imply that States must implement obligations under human rights instruments to which they are not a party. The United States is not a party to the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESR), and the rights contained …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Financing for Development

The United States is proud to be a leader on financing for development. The scale and impact of private capital, domestic resource mobilization, philanthropy, remittances and other financial flows, and enhanced commerce and investment now dwarf the role of Official Development Assistance (ODA) in development finance.

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the Protection of Global Climate for Present and Future Generations of Humankind

We expect that future iterations of this resolution will advance the interests of all Member States and eschew narrow political messaging that undermines consensus, the work of this committee, and our ability to work together in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on Agenda 21

The United States supports the achievement of sustainable development and recognizes the role that sustainable consumption and production practices can play in it. However, we do not believe that changes made to this resolution advance Second Committee revitalization enough to warrant not voting against this resolution this year.

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on External Debt Sustainability and Development

Increased debt transparency is not only critical to maximizing the benefits of DSSI debt relief, but also helps prevent corruption, promote debt sustainability, and allow citizens to hold their governments accountable as the world seeks to recover from the pandemic stronger than before.

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on the International Financial System and Development

With respect to OP 16, we strongly disagree with the encouragement to provide “flexible, concessional, fast-disbursing, and front-loaded assistance” without regard to the financial sustainability of the institutions, the development impact and effect on poverty reduction of such assistance, or the presence of an appropriate macroeconomic policy framework. The concessionality of assistance should be determined …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Counterterrorism Coordination (via VTC)

Over the last year, the global terrorist threat has substantially evolved. Thousands of suspected foreign terrorist fighters and their families remain stranded in conflict zones. The threat from ISIS will likely increase if the international community does not meet its obligations under international law to repatriate their citizens. We encourage the Counterterrorism Executive Directorate and …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Somalia (via VTC)

The next months in Somalia are indeed particularly important for the future trajectory of the country. Constructive dialogue among Somali leaders over the last several months has led to the development of an electoral model. While we know the agreed-upon structure does not achieve the ‘one person, one vote’ model most Somali people want, we …

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on Missing Persons

The United States also agrees that avoiding harm to civilians can help prevent persons from going missing in armed conflict and that minimizing the military use of civilian infrastructure can be an appropriate measure in this regard. The United States notes, however, that there is no obligation under international law for States to minimize the …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the International Day for Peoples of African Descent

However, the United States must dissociate from preambular paragraph 5, because it distracts from the intent of this important resolution by focusing on the Human Rights Council’s divisive June 2020 resolution that targeted the United States’ record on policing and race. In his June 20 statement, Secretary Pompeo criticized the Council’s failure to urge authoritarian …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Extrajudicial Killings

While this resolution covers a variety of situations in which extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions occur, we do not want to lose sight of the fact that there are not one, but two, bodies of international law that regulate unlawful killings of individuals by governments – international human rights law and international humanitarian law. As …

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on the Universal Right to Self-Determination

The United States recognizes the importance of the right of peoples to self-determination and therefore joins consensus on this resolution. We note, however, as frequently stated by the United States and other delegations, that this resolution contains many misstatements of international law and is inconsistent with current state practice.

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on the Durban Declaration and Program of Action

The United States notes with concern that the resolution remains silent on the issue of oppression of members of ethnic minority groups in the People’s Republic of China, which regularly oppresses its own people, including members of minority groups of Asian, Turkic, and other descent. In Xinjiang, a merciless crackdown has resulted in the mass …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Indigenous Peoples

The United States reaffirms its support for the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. As explained in our 2010 Statement of Support, the Declaration is an aspirational document of moral and political force and is not legally binding or a statement of current international law. The Declaration expresses aspirations that the United States …

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on the Report of the Human Rights Council

Chair – As we have stated for years in this chamber, the United States sees the annual resolution on the Report of the Human Rights Council as procedurally unnecessary. More broadly, the United States continues strongly to object to the Human Rights Council’s disproportionate focus on Israel and has concerns regarding certain other resolutions adopted …

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on the World Summit for Social Development

It is our view that the United Nations must respect the independent mandates of other processes and institutions, including trade negotiations, and must not involve itself in decisions, interpretations, and actions in other forums, including the World Trade Organization. There should be no expectation or misconception that the United States would understand recommendations made by …

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General Statement in a Meeting of the Third Committee on Assistance to Refugees, Returnees, and Displaced Persons in Africa

The United States remains concerned over the increasing number of displaced persons either from conflict or natural disasters within the African continent. The global pandemic has only exacerbated the vulnerability and increased the needs of displaced persons in addition to limiting efforts to respond to and end displacement.

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Statement on the Introduction of a Resolution on the Human Rights Situation in Syria

The United States has co-authored this much-needed resolution that addresses the appalling human rights situation in Syria. We thank our cross-regional core group and all of the resolution’s co-sponsors for their support. We strongly encourage all United Nations members to vote yes in support of this resolution. Following my statement, I kindly ask the Secretariat …

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General Statement on the Human Rights Situation in Burma

The United States welcomes the work of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar and echoes the resolution’s call for all countries to grant the IIMM access and provide it with every assistance in the execution of its mandate. We also hope to see Myanmar authorities cooperate with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human …

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on the Permanent Sovereignty of the Palestinian People Over Their Natural Resources

The United States will once again vote against this one-sided resolution and encourages other nations to also do so. The United States will continue to oppose every effort to delegitimize Israel, and we hope other members will join us by voting “no” on this resolution.

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on the Oil Slick on Lebanese Shores

This perennial anti-Israel resolution recycles tired, habitual rhetoric that does nothing to advance the cause of peace. Indeed, it damages UN credibility by casting into doubt the impartiality of the UN. It is deplorable that the United Nations – an institution founded upon the idea that all nations should be treated equally – should be …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on South-South Cooperation

The United States supports efforts of the United Nations development system entities to facilitate South-South Cooperation in line with principles of effective development, which include a focus on results, inclusive partnerships and consultations, transparency and accountability, and full respect for human rights. These principles help ensure that the development efforts of all actors advance the …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Sustainable Tourism

We refer you to our General Statement delivered on November 18, 2020 to the 75th General Assembly Second Committee session, which addresses our concerns regarding the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, the New Urban Agenda, Official Development Assistance, the Paris Agreement, climate change, reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate …

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General Statement on the Adoption of a Resolution on the Human Rights Situation in Iran

The Iranian regime further engages in activity that raises human rights concerns, including targeting women, members of ethnic and religious minority groups, and those with opposing political views. The United States shares the Special Rapporteur’s concerns regarding the continued repression of members of religious minority groups. Gonabadi Sufis, Baha’is, and Christian converts face severe treatment …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the Third Decade for Poverty Eradication

The United States believes in legal protections for the unborn and rejects any interpretation of international human rights to require any State Party to provide safe, legal, and effective access to abortion. As President Trump has stated, “Americans will never tire of defending innocent life.” Each nation has the sovereign right to implement related programs …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Landlocked Developing Countries

The United States is pleased to join consensus on the resolution on the Follow-up to the Second UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries. We wish to make several clarifying points on the final text. Concerning the reference to the International Think Tank for LLDCs, we do not believe it is appropriate to mention a private …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Least Developed Countries

Finally, we refer you to our general statement, delivered today, which addresses our concerns regarding the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, the New Urban Agenda, illicit financial flows, Official Development Assistance, the Paris Agreement, climate change, reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and characterizations of inclusive economic growth, …

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General Statement on the Situation of Human Rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea

The COI findings describe human rights violations and abuses that are “systematic, widespread, and gross,” including those involving “extermination, murder, enslavement, torture, imprisonment, rape, forced abortion and other sexual violence, persecution of political, religious, racial and gender groups, the forcible transfer of populations, and the enforced disappearance of persons and the inhumane act of knowingly …

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on the New International Economic Order

The United States calls on member states to avoid the unnecessary politicization of resolutions. It is a waste of the UN’s time and scarce resources to consider this resolution and it should be retired. For other issues in the resolution, we refer you to the U.S. General Statement delivered today.

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism

Jesse Walter Advisor for Economic and Social Affairs U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 18, 2020 AS DELIVERED The United States is pleased to join consensus on the resolution “Global Code of Ethics for Tourism.” Regarding our position with respect to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Addis Ababa …

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development

With regard to science and technology education policies, we strongly support quality STEM education, but we note that in the United States, curricular and other education policies, decisions, and actions are taken as appropriate and consistent with our respective federal, state, or local authorities.

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Investments for Sustainable Development

Further, the United States is proud of the significant investments we have made both domestically and internationally to advance women’s equality and empowerment. While we are pleased to reaffirm this commitment, this resolution is not the proper venue in which to call for significantly increasing such investment.

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on International Trade and Development

Regarding unilateral economic, financial or trade measures, the United States believes economic sanctions – as an alternative to the use of force – can be an appropriate, effective, and legitimate response to gross violations of international human rights or violations of other widely accepted norms. Each Member State has the sovereign right to determine how …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the Information and Communication Technology for Sustainable Development

Courtney R. Nemroff Acting U.S. Representative to the Economic and Social Council U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 18, 2020 AS DELIVERED Thanks to Ambassador Rai as chair of this Second Committee session, as well as to the Vice Chairs, for getting us to this point of adopting resolutions, against …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Middle East (via VTC)

The Abraham Accords have made peace all the more possible. We are witnessing the accumulating fruits of the Accords with each passing day. It is no overstatement to say that the Accords have triggered a wave of commercial, educational, and cultural interactions in the Middle East that are without recent precedent.

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Remarks in a Meeting of the Fifth Committee on Agenda Item 141: Review of the Peace and Security Reform Implementation

U.S. strongly supports the Secretary-General’s efforts to reform the management, peace and security, and development structures. We are pleased with the efforts to mainstream a “whole of pillar approach” into the work of the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and the Department of Peace Operations, though we believe more work must be done to …

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General Statement in a Meeting of the Second Committee

Finally, the 2030 Agenda states that “no one” will be left behind. We believe any alteration from the 2030 language, such as “no country left behind,” erodes the people-centered focus of the Agenda and distracts from the many multi-faceted and multi-stakeholder efforts to advance sustainable development.

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on the Death Penalty

The United States urges Member States that support the resolution to address human rights violations that may arise from implementation of the death penalty in an extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary manner. Capital defendants must be provided with a fair trial before a competent, independent, and impartial tribunal established by law, with full and fair trial …

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on the Right to Development

Additionally, the United States cannot support the inclusion of the phrase “to expand and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation.” This phrase has been promoted interchangeably with “win-win cooperation” by a single Member State to insert the domestic policy agenda of its Head of State in UN documents.

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on the Enhancement of International Cooperation in the Field of Human Rights

However, we must dissociate from preambular paragraph 5, because of the incorrect assertion that the enhancement of international cooperation is essential for the effective promotion and protection of all human rights. International cooperation is a helpful instrument to promote the implementation of human rights, but each individual State maintains primary responsibility to promote and protect …

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on the Right to Food

This resolution rightfully acknowledges the hardships millions of people are facing, and importantly calls on States to support the emergency humanitarian appeals of the UN. However, the resolution also contains many unbalanced, inaccurate, and unwise provisions the United States cannot support. This resolution does not articulate meaningful solutions for preventing hunger and malnutrition or avoiding …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the Right to Privacy in the Digital Age

We hope that further work on this topic, including the work of the Special Rapporteur, can touch on other areas relating to privacy rights beyond the digital environment, including examination of how abuses of privacy may be implicated in broader repression of the exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms within States.

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution Entitled “Intensification of Efforts to Prevent and Eliminate All Forms of Violence Against Women”

The United States thanks France and the Netherlands for their resolution on increasing global efforts to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls. While the United States remains deeply committed to genuine and effective efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls, we regret that this resolution strays from the critical issue at hand.

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Child, Early, and Forced Marriage (CEFM)

We regret that the U.S. amendment(s) to PP23, OP14, OP17, OP18 and OP23f did not pass. The United States disassociates from PP23, OP14, OP17, OP18 and OP23f because of our concerns about wording that exceeds prior international consensus on issues related to reproductive health care.

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Literacy for Life

We take this opportunity to make important points of clarification on language related to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. We underscore that the 2030 Agenda is non-binding and does not create or affect rights or obligations under international law, nor does it create any new financial commitments.

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Female Genital Mutilation

The United States is committed to improving women’s health across their lifespan. However, we cannot accept references to “sexual and reproductive health, “sexual and reproductive health-care services,” “safe termination of pregnancy” or any similar language that would promote abortion or suggest inaccurately a right to abortion.

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Trafficking in Women and Girls

The United States recognizes and reaffirms its belief that decisions about whom to legally admit for residency or to whom to grant citizenship are among the most important sovereign decisions a country can make, and are not subject to negotiation in international instruments or fora. The United States maintains the sovereign right to facilitate or …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Obstetric Fistula

The United States supports the goal of having women and girls receive quality education. We note however that there is no “right to education of good quality,” as the resolution mentions, and also note that in the United States, decisions regarding curricular and other education policies, materials, and programs are made as appropriate and consistent …

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Explanation of Vote on a Resolution on Human Rights and Extreme Poverty

We take this opportunity again to make important points of clarification regarding the reaffirmation of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. Specifically, we note that much of the trade-related language in the Addis outcome document has been overtaken by events since July 2015; therefore, it is immaterial, and our reaffirmation of the outcome document has no …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on the World Drug Problem

The United States disassociates from OP81. Regarding references to the World Health Organization, on May 29, 2020, President Trump announced the United States is terminating its relationship with the WHO and redirecting foreign assistance funding planned for the WHO to other deserving organizations and urgent health needs around the world. The United States submitted a …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the G5 Sahel Joint Force (via VTC)

The United States agrees that the G5 Joint Force and its civilian component are key to addressing some of the root causes of the conflict. The United States, as with others, as we’ve heard, remains committed to bilaterally supporting the Joint Force with equipment, training, and supplies, and advisors. We, of course, encourage other partners …

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General Statement in a Meeting of the Third Committee

The United States understands that General Assembly resolutions do not change the current state of conventional or customary international law. We do not read resolutions to imply that Member States must join or implement obligations under international instruments to which they are not a party, and any reaffirmation of such Conventions or treaties applies only …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution Entitled “Follow-up to the Twentieth Anniversary of the International Year of the Family and Beyond”

Strengthening the capacities of children and their families is one of the best investments a society can make to eliminate extreme poverty, boost economic growth, and promote peace. When the family unit is strong, all other goals and outcomes for children are well within reach.

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Inclusive Development for Persons with Disabilities

The United States does not read this resolution to imply that states must join or implement obligations under international instruments to which they are not a party, including the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, or any other treaty or provision thereof, and the United States understands that any reaffirmation of that Convention …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution Entitled “Follow-Up to the Second World Assembly on Ageing” and General Statement on Cross-Cutting Issues

The United States believes each Member State has the sovereign right to determine how it conducts trade with other countries. Moreover, it is our view that the UN must respect the independent mandates of other processes and institutions.

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Explanation of Vote on a UN General Assembly Decision Entitled: Procedure for Decision-Making in the GA When an In-Person Meeting is Not Possible

The United States thanks Liechtenstein and the core group for their initiative. The UN General Assembly needs to be prepared to take essential operational decisions in the event that the General Assembly is unable to hold in-person meetings in the future. We hope that day will not come again, but it is important to ensure …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Women and Girls and the Response to COVID-19 (Spain)

We regret that the U.S. amendments did not pass, and accordingly health related wording that is problematic for us remains in the resolution. The United States therefore disassociates from operative paragraph 7 and operative paragraph 8. “Sexual and reproductive health” and “health-care services” are controversial terms which detracts from the resolution’s recommendations to address female …

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Explanation of Position on a Resolution on Strengthening National and International Response to the Impact of COVID-19 on Women and Girls (Egypt)

The United States has notified the United Nations of our intention to withdraw from the World Health Organization, and we dissociate from PP 21. It is inappropriate to single out specific partners in the global response to address COVID-19.

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Remarks at a Meeting of the Sixth Committee on Agenda Item 88: Responsibility of International Organizations

In light of the lack of significant developments in this area over the last three years, we reiterate the view we have expressed on past occasions that many of the rules contained in the Draft Articles fall into the category of progressive development rather than codification of the law, a point expressly recognized in the …

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Remarks at a Meeting of the Sixth Committee on Agenda Item 78: United Nations Commission on International Trade Law

We look forward to continuing our productive engagement with UNCITRAL this year. While there was no consensus on a decision to request additional resources for Working Group III’s work of ISDS reform as some delegations had proposed, we welcome the willingness of all delegations to engage in a discussion about the future work plan on …

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Remarks at a Meeting of the Fifth Committee on the Administration of Justice (via VTC)

While we are conducting our work during a challenging time of a global pandemic, this session offers an important opportunity to continue to strengthen the system, enhance its effectiveness and improve the working conditions of all United Nations staff. The United States looks forward to working with all member states in reaching consensus on this …

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Remarks at a Meeting of the Sixth Committee on Agenda Item 79: UN Program of Assistance in International Law

The United States recognizes the significant role of the Office of Legal Affairs, in particular the Codification Division, in implementing the Program of Assistance. We appreciated its nimble adaptation to the working conditions of Covid-19 this year. While it is disappointing that some of the Program’s courses and fellowship events could not be held in …

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Explanation of Vote on the Modalities Resolution for the UN General Assembly Special Session on COVID-19 (via VTC)

The United States constructively engaged throughout the negotiations and showed the utmost flexibility on several issues of concern. We were willing to accept the co-facilitators’ compromise text, including with regards to civil society participation in the UNGASS and the reference to the role of the World Health Organization in the modalities text.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Chemical Weapons in Syria (via VTC)

Assad’s enablers, including the Russian Federation, the People’s Republic of China, and the Islamic Republic of Iran, share this responsibility with all of us. How can these governments defend the grotesque reality that Syria’s air force has repeatedly dropped sarin and chlorine bombs on civilians; and claim that they support international norms against the use …

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Remarks at a Meeting of the Sixth Committee on Agenda Item 80: Report of the International Law Commission

The United States appreciates the difficulty faced by the ILC in conducting its business during the pandemic, and the complications presented by virtual meetings. We trust the ILC’s assessment of what is, and what is not, possible to accomplish on its substantive projects before it reconvenes in Geneva.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on Bosnia and Herzegovina (via VTC)

The United States commends Bosnia and Herzegovina for reaching an important milestone: 25 years of peace following the signing of the Dayton Peace Accords. This historic agreement provided an opportunity to end the ravages of war so that future generations can live in peace and security. But, as we all know, challenges still remain.

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Explanation of Vote on the Participation in the UNGA Fourth Committee Palestinian Resolutions

Samantha Sutton Political Advisor U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 4, 2020 AS DELIVERED The United States continues to lead on peace in the Middle East, taking active steps to build greater trust among our partners in the region by identifying their shared interests and moving them away from the …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Evolving Role of UN Policing in Peace Operations (via VTC)

he United States commends the tremendous progress made throughout the last 60 years of UN Policing. Today, UN Police are deployed to increasingly more complex, dynamic, and multidimensional missions. They play a critical role in protection, public order management, partnering with host-nation authorities, and preventing and investigating crime.

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Statement at the 75th UN General Assembly Sixth Committee on Agenda Item Number 87: Scope and Application of the Principle of Universal Jurisdiction

Despite the importance of this issue and its long history as part of international law relating to piracy, the United States’ view continues to be that basic questions remain regarding how jurisdiction should be exercised in relation to universal crimes, and States’ views and practices related to the topic.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council High-Level Event on Contemporary Drivers of Conflict and Insecurity (via VTC)

Sadly, we are living in a world where violent conflict is increasingly common after years of decline. We know that violence begets more violence. It distorts social norms, undermines institutions, and destroys countries and lives. Fragile states are particularly susceptible to destabilizing violence and armed conflict – and its everyday citizens that pay the price.

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Explanation of Position on the Adoption of a UN General Assembly Resolution on the International Criminal Court

The United States has historically been, and will continue to be, a strong supporter of meaningful accountability and justice for victims of atrocities through appropriate and legitimate mechanism. Perpetrators of atrocities must face justice, but we must also be careful to recognize the right tool for each situation.

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Joint Statement on the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists

On 2 November, the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, established pursuant to UN General Assembly Resolution 68/163, we commend the work of all journalists and media workers, online as well as offline, who daily risk their lives and health in the service of the general public, upholding a free, independent, plural …

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Explanation of Vote on a Russian Draft Resolution on Women, Peace, and Security

No nation is more committed to the Women, Peace, and Security agenda than the United States. We were the first nation to enshrine the objectives in UN Security Council Resolution 1325 in our national legislation and develop a whole-of-government effort to measure progress and maintain accountability across our domestic and global implementation.

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Explanation of Vote on the Mandate Renewal of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara

The United States commends the Council for affirming its support for MINURSO with today’s mandate renewal. While we share fellow Council members’ frustration with the lack of progress on the political front, we would like to highlight the importance of the daily work of the peacekeepers. In renewing MINURSO’s mandate, the Council is recognizing the …

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue on Protection Against Violence and Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity

Around the world, LGBTI persons are subjected to violence and bias-motivated crime. The United States stands against all forms of violence, including human rights violations and abuses against people on the basis of their sexual orientation and gender identity. All governments should uphold their commitment to protect and respect every person’s fundamental freedoms, and no …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Somalia (via VTC)

The United States remains focused on limiting the ability of al-Shabaab to conduct attacks against civilians, and is committed to partnering with Member States to utilize the 751 Somalia sanctions regime to its full extent. This effort includes technical assistance and capacity building to counter the financing of terrorism and the threat of IEDs.

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue on Contemporary Forms of Slavery, A.I. 72(b) (via VTC)

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Child Labor, Forced Labor, and Human Trafficking utilizes research, awareness raising, policy engagement, and technical cooperation to address child labor and forced labor. The Department publishes three reports on these subjects and provides tools such as the Comply Chain app to companies to combat exploitation in their supply …

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Remarks at the Fifth Committee Review of Management Reform Implementation (via VTC)

n the fall of 2017, President Trump, in one of his first engagements at the UN General Assembly, and the United States led the political call, along with 131 member states, in support of the Secretary-General and his efforts to reform the UN’s management, peace and security and development structures because we saw the world …

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Remarks at a Meeting of the Sixth Committee on Agenda Item Number 89: Protection of Persons in the Event of Disasters

Our view has not changed since this issue was last considered by this Committee. We continue to believe that this topic is best addressed through practical cooperation and guidance and focusing on real world actions rather than the negotiation of a new instrument. In that regard, we have been pleased to work with member states …

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue on the Promotion of Truth, Justice, Reparation, and Guarantees of Non-Recurrence (via VTC)

The United States strongly urges the Government of Burma to provide justice for victims and ensure accountability for perpetrators of human rights violations and abuses throughout the country. Civil society and victims must be included in transitional justice efforts if the nationwide peace process is to have hope of succeeding.

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue on the Situation of Human Rights in Belarus (via VTC)

The United States supports the democratic aspirations of the Belarusian people to choose their own path through free and fair elections. Unfortunately, the August 9 election was neither free nor fair. Authorities have detained thousands of citizens for the simple act of exercising their human rights. The crackdown on peaceful protestors, journalists, and opposition members …

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Joint Statement on the Human Rights Situation in Belarus

We support the democratic aspirations of the Belarusian people to choose their own path through free and fair elections; we are inspired by the people’s commitment to determine their own future, free from external intervention or threats, and in full respect of Belarus’s sovereignty. The 9 August 2020 presidential election was neither free nor fair.

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue with the Chair of the Commission of Inquiry on Burundi (via VTC)

We welcome the commitment President Ndayishimiye made in his inauguration speech to improve human rights, fight impunity, and advance political reconciliation. We encourage the new government to continue to engage with us and demonstrate through actions its commitment to improve human rights and to end harmful policies.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on the Situation in the Middle East (via VTC)

Once again, we find ourselves in the Council debating the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and members states will read statements packed with the same rhetorical fodder of hundreds of statements before them. It’s time to stop this unproductive practice. Jews and Arabs are Abraham’s children, they share Middle Eastern ancestry, culture and history, and deserve a future …

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue on the Situation of Human Rights in Iran (via VTC)

We strongly condemn the continued targeting and harsh sentencing of those detained for peaceful activism, such as Nasrin Sotoudeh and Narges Mohammadi who endure deplorable prison conditions, including exposure to COVID-19. Foreign nationals are also unjustly detained. We call on Iran to release these prisoners immediately.

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue on the Situation of Human Rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (via VTC)

We join your call for the immediate release of all those arbitrarily detained, including those imprisoned for their beliefs, and an end to severe restrictions on fundamental freedoms. We also urge the regime to end its repression of information and communication into and within the country.

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar (via VTC)

We call for unhindered access to life-saving humanitarian assistance in all areas affected by violence across the country. The COVID-19 pandemic increases communities’ vulnerability and the urgency of reducing violence. We call for the Government of Myanmar to create conditions that allow for the voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable return of refugees and internally displaced …

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Protection of Freedom of Opinion and Expression (via VTC)

Governments increasingly restrict freedom of expression of viewpoints with which they disagree, repress peaceful dissent, and stifle the free flow of information and ideas. Arbitrary detentions, threats of violence, and physical attacks are routinely used to target individuals and groups and silence their voices.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA)

In the near term, the AU and UN should strengthen their support to develop administrative and security arrangements for Abyei. They also should encourage the parties to support local communities to engage in meaningful dialogue. Regular meetings of the Joint Political and Security Mechanism should inform this process.

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Remarks at a UN General Assembly Debate on the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (via VTC)

The United States was very pleased to hear that despite the ongoing impacts of the COVID pandemic that affect all of us every day, the Mechanism has been able to carry out its important work and deliver results. We join others in commending the judges for their ability to adapt to these trying circumstances and …

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons (via VTC)

The United States supports the UN Secretary-General’s High-Level Panel on Internal Displacement and its efforts to develop new, bold, and concrete recommendations. We are pleased to hear of your close collaboration with the Panel.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (via VTC)

The agreements signed at the White House on September 4 spanned a range of economic normalization issues. They will bring growth, investments, and jobs to citizens in both countries and set a new tone of reconciliation in the pursuit of progress for the Western Balkans.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council High-Level Debate on a Comprehensive Review of the Situation in the Persian Gulf Region (via VTC)

As long as Iran and others support the terrorist activities of Hamas and Islamic Jihad, our sincere efforts to help Israelis and Palestinians reach peace and build a better future together will be threatened by terror and mired in meaningless and perpetual violence and conflict.

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Remarks at a Meeting of the Sixth Committee on Agenda Item 86: Rule of Law at the National and International Levels

Among the most concerning of the Secretary-General’s findings are those related to corruption. Corruption is a corrosive force. It erodes trust in institutions. It increases the imbalance between those with power and those without. And it goes hand-in-hand with the defiance of international norms. For these reasons, it is only appropriate that the Sixth Committee …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Central African Republic

We also urge the government to demonstrate its commitment to fighting impunity by expeditiously standing up and implementing justice mechanisms, including the Truth, Justice, Reparation and Reconciliation Commission and the Special Criminal Court. The United States will continue to help in these important efforts through our assistance in developing the country’s security and judicial institutions. …

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Statement during the Main Part of the 75th UN General Assembly on Agenda Item 143: Improving the Financial Situation of the UN

It hardly bears repeating that since the founding of the United Nations, the United States continues to be the largest contributor by far to the organization. Already this year, the United States has contributed $2.3 billion in assessed contributions. This is $1 billion more than the next largest contributor, and more than the total contributions …

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms While Countering Terrorism (via VTC)

We work with other governments, civil society, the private sector, and within international fora to increase cooperation on counterterrorism, including by strengthening information sharing. This cooperation includes developing good practices that enhance our shared commitment to human rights based upon respect for and protection off fundamental freedoms.

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Remarks at a Meeting of the Sixth Committee on Agenda Item Number 152: Administration of Justice

The United States appreciates the efforts of the UN Dispute Tribunal (UNDT) and UN Appeals Tribunal (UNAT) to continue their work through the difficult working conditions posed by the global pandemic and to make further progress on the reforms that have been the focus of this committee’s discussions in recent years.

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Remarks at a Meeting of the Sixth Committee on Agenda Item 90: Strengthening and Promoting the International Treaty Framework

The Committee’s discussion of this topic follows on the significant and extended work the Committee did in 2018 resulting in a consensus set of revisions to the Secretariat’s treaty registration and publication regulations. We welcome the chance to continue this discussion and thank the Secretariat for its useful discussion paper.

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Statement at the 75th General Assembly Sixth Committee Agenda Item Number 152: Administration of Justice

We welcome the continued progress made to reduce the backlog of cases before the tribunals, which is critical to delivering justice and maintaining the credibility of the system. We note that the UNDT must continue to focus on surmounting this lingering challenge. 

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Yemen

Despite the promise this agreement holds, I am deeply concerned that progress on the political front is stalled because of the Houthis’ failure to uphold their commitments. Their continued offensive on Marib demonstrates they are not interested in a political process, and only want more years of war for the people of Yemen. Marib is …

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Explanation of Vote on the Adoption of the UN Security Council Resolution on the Mandate Renewal of the UN Integrated Office in Haiti

This resolution ensures the UN has the mandate that it needs to continue its critical efforts to support democratic institutions, strengthen the rule of law, promote stability, and to protect human rights in Haiti, in partnership with the United States, Haiti’s neighbors, the Core Group, and the international community.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Colombia (via VTC)

The United States continues to stand with Colombia as we confront COVID-19. The Trump Administration has provided more than $23.6 million in assistance for Colombia’s response to COVID-19. The United States is helping Colombians prevent the spread of the virus, deliver water and sanitation supplies, care for COVID-19 cases, and provide emergency food assistance.

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner for Human Rights (via VTC)

In the People’s Republic of China, we are alarmed by the Chinese Communist Party’s detention of more than one million Uyghurs, ethnic Kazakhs, ethnic Kyrgyz, and members of other predominantly Muslim minority groups in internment camps in Xinjiang. Madam High Commissioner, we hope you will endorse the June 26 statement by 50 UN independent experts …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Great Lakes

Since we last met to discuss the situation in the Great Lakes, the COVID-19 pandemic has continued to turn our world upside down. The Great Lakes region, which was in the midst of overcoming the second most deadly Ebola epidemic in world history, is no different. Despite the obstacles to travel created by the pandemic, …

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Remarks at a Tribute to the Memory of His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah of the State of Kuwait

It is a solemn honor to join with so many others today in paying tribute to His Highness Sheikh Sabah. We extend our sincere condolences to his family and to the people of Kuwait. He will be missed not only by the people of his country, but also by his friends and admirers in the …

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Remarks at a Meeting of the Sixth Committee on Agenda Item 77: Criminal Accountability of UN Officials and Experts on Mission

We emphasize that the United Nations and its Member States must remain vigilant in protecting the credibility of the United Nations in carrying out this work, and clear-eyed about the effect incidents of criminal behavior by UN officials and experts on mission have on the public’s confidence in the United Nations.

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue on the Sale and Sexual Exploitation of Children, A.I. 72(b) (via VTC)

The United States agrees with your observation in your recent report that effective cross-border cooperation is essential to addressing the sale and sexual exploitation of children. The Department of State’s Child Protection Compact (CPC) Partnerships are examples of such cooperation.

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Remarks at a Formal Meeting of the Fifth Committee on Agenda Items 141 and 142: Proposed 2021 Programme Budget and Plan

Since the creation of WFP in 1961 at the request of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, a man who believed in the UN’s mission and understood that combatting hunger is critical not just because it is a moral thing to do, because it is the best way to build stability in the world, the United States …

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Statement at the 75th General Assembly Sixth Committee Agenda Item 77: Criminal accountability of United Nations

We emphasize that the United Nations and its Member States must remain vigilant in protecting the credibility of the United Nations in carrying out this work, and clear-eyed about the effect incidents of criminal behavior by UN officials and experts on mission have on the public’s confidence in the United Nations. The United States reiterates …

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U.S. Statement at the General Debate of the Second Committee of the UN General Assembly

There could not have been a better choice. WFP assisted nearly 100 million women, children, and men last year, and its operations have long been a model for the humanitarian community. WFP is often the first agency to arrive in conflict-torn communities or those devastated by natural disaster, and stays until those communities have the …

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue on Children in Armed Conflict (via VTC)

The United States remains fully committed to supporting the UN’s critical work to address the impact of conflict on children wherever possible, preventing the unlawful recruitment and use of children, assisting affected children in recovering from conflict, and facilitating their reintegration with their families and communities. We continue to work vigorously with UNICEF to promote …

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Remarks at a Third Committee Interactive Dialogue on Violence Against Women, A.I. 72(b) (via VTC)

Social distancing and quarantine pandemic requirements can increase intimate partner violence, due to extended proximity with one’s abuser.  Increased stress can contribute to child abuse.  Individuals are at higher risk of chronic disease, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, reduced educational achievement, and limited employment.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Arria-Formula Meeting on Mediation (via VTC)

Mediation is most successful when the right set of stakeholders is engaged – and I think that this has been highlighted throughout the conversation already today – and that the mediator is trusted. Increasing evidence also demonstrates that women’s meaningful participation is critical to successful and sustainable negotiations, reconciliation, and the transition processes.

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Remarks during a Panel Discussion Commemorating the 20th Anniversary of the UN Trafficking in Persons Protocol (via VTC)

It is remarkable to consider that the United Nations did not exist more than 75 years ago, and, alarming to think that just a couple of decades ago, there was no Palermo Protocol. Generations of victims were trafficked – abducted and forced into labor and sexual slavery – and there wasn’t the coordinated commitment of …

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Remarks at an Interactive Dialogue with Claudia Mahler, Independent Expert on the Enjoyment of All Human Rights by Older Persons, A.I. 72(b) (via VTC)

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) were signed into law last March. In April, the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Administration for Community Living announced $1.2 billion in CARES Acts grants to support older persons and persons with disabilities during the COVID-19 emergency.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Mali

ECOWAS and MINUSMA leadership have played vital roles in stabilizing the political situation created by the August 18 overthrow of Mali’s elected president. The United States condemned these actions and immediately halted our security assistance in Mali in response. Since August, progress has been made to return to constitutional order, but let me stress: the …

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Remarks at a Meeting of the Sixth Committee on Agenda Item Number 114: Measures to Eliminate International Terrorism

The U.S. National Strategy for Counterterrorism (NSCT) recognizes today’s terrorist landscape is more fluid and complex than ever and highlights the need for our partners to play a paramount role in the future of counterterrorism. We appreciate the United Nations’ critical role in mobilizing the international community and building capacity for Member States to implement …

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Statement on Human Rights during the General Debate of the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly

The United States is committed to protecting and promoting the fundamental human rights of all, including ethnic, religious, and other minorities. We take every opportunity to advance equality for women and girls, and we will always proudly defend life and human dignity.

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Statement at the 75th General Assembly Sixth Committee Agenda Item Number 114: Measures to Eliminate International Terrorism

The U.S. National Strategy for Counterterrorism (NSCT) recognizes today’s terrorist landscape is more fluid and complex than ever and highlights the need for our partners to play a paramount role in the future of counterterrorism. We appreciate the United Nations’ critical role in mobilizing the international community and building capacity for Member States to implement …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (via VTC)

The United States is deeply troubled by rising levels of violence in North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri, which were characterized by clashes between armed groups; tit-for-tat militia attacks against civilians, including many women and children; and the Allied Democratic Forces’ continued brutal campaign. We must use all tools at hand to work toward the …

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Joint Statement on the Human Rights Situation in Xinjiang and the Recent Developments in Hong Kong, Delivered by Germany on Behalf of 39 Countries

We are gravely concerned about the human rights situation in Xinjiang and the recent developments in Hong Kong. In June 2020, 50 UN Special Procedures mandate holders issued an exceptional letter of concern, calling on the People’s Republic of China to respect human rights. We share their grave concerns. We call on China to respect …

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Official Statement at the Organizational Session of the Fifth Committee during the 75th UN General Assembly Session

We have a consequential session before us in examining the functioning of the Secretariat and the reforms we have embarked upon in the management, peace and security and development realms. We will examine whether the reforms are delivering the expected benefits along with making the Organization more effective and efficient.

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Remarks at a Formal Meeting of the Fifth Committee on Agenda Item 145: Scale of Assessments (via VTC)

My delegation continues to believes that the Committee can provide a useful perspective on the peacekeeping scales methodology, allowing the General Assembly to make better informed decisions. We look forward to working with delegations to find a way to incorporate the Committee’s feedback on the peacekeeping scale of assessments into our deliberations.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Chemical Weapons in Syria

Let me start by saying, that the United States is committed to forthright and transparent discussions in the Security Council. We have no interest in allowing this Council to be used for propaganda. Regardless of what Russia has said, the additional briefer that was proposed, at the last minute, for this afternoon’s discussion, was removed …

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Remarks at a Formal Meeting of the Fifth Committee on the UN Office of Internal Oversight Services and Independent Audit Advisory Committee

Key to the proper functioning and maintaining trust in the Organization is rooting out fraud, misconduct and corruption and the timeliness of such investigations. The United States notes the efforts to bring down the average length of time for investigations and continue to encourage sustained efforts in this regard.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Haiti (via VTC)

While the Haitian government’s announcement of the members of the Provisional Electoral Council was a necessary step in that direction, there is much more work to be done, including the approval of an electoral law, an electoral budget, and an electoral calendar. The people of Haiti deserve peace, prosperity, and stability, which can only come …

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Remarks at a Global Cooperation and Training Framework Event on Advancing International Development through Public-Private Partnerships (via VTC)

Taiwan has a trusted friend in President Donald J. Trump, and an administration that champions the international role that Taiwan holds. That’s why the Trump Administration is partnering with Taiwan and Japan on the Global Cooperation and Training Framework. Taiwan deserves the highest platform where it can share its remarkable innovation and expertise in data …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Middle East (via VTC)

Last month, we opened our remarks by highlighting the most significant step towards peace in the Middle East in over 25 years – the agreement to normalize relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates. For the second month in a row, we are pleased to draw the Council’s attention to yet another momentous step …

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Joint Statements on UN Development System Reform Delivered at the UNDP/UNFPA/UNOPS, UNICEF, and UN-Women Executive Boards Second Regular Sessions 2020

Thank you, Mr. President. I am delivering this statement on behalf of Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Republic of Korea, Republic of Moldova, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United States of America and my own country, …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Sudan

The United States commends the efforts of the civilian-led transitional government, the Sudan Revolutionary Front, and the Sudan Liberation Movement – Minni Minawi, to reach an agreement that could – if upheld in earnest, and in a spirit of peace, reconciliation, and development – usher in a new era throughout Sudan. It is now up …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council High-Level Meeting on Maintenance of International Peace and Security: Post-COVID-19 Global Governance (via VTC)

The United States has been unrelenting in its efforts to combat COVID-19, both at home and abroad. President Trump noted in his address to the 75th General Assembly, our nation launched the most aggressive national mobilization since World War II to address the pandemic.

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Introductory Remarks during a Virtual Dialogue with the World’s Top Ten Donors on Global Humanitarian Needs (via VTC)

The already enormous challenge of responding to global humanitarian concerns has only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. And as we speak, nearly 170 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance around the world, and more than 90 million of those require food assistance.

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Remarks Introducing President Donald J. Trump at the 75th Session of the UN General Assembly

On this 75th anniversary of the United Nations, I have the awesome honor of introducing today someone who has taken to heart the core principle that this international organization was founded upon – peace. On September 15th, we all witnessed the results of President Trump’s vision and perseverance, which brought Israel, the United Arab Emirates, …

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Remarks at a State Department Press Briefing on Iran Snapback Sanctions

The actions we’re announcing today and our work in the Security Council over the last three months have been driven by a single purpose – the pursuit of peace. What makes America unique is that we stand up for what is right. As we have in the past, we will stand alone to protect peace …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Political Situation in Syria (via VTC)

During the Council’s last Syria political meeting to the start of the Constitutional Committee, I outlined three specific benchmarks that we had hoped the Committee would reach during the third round of the meetings. Those benchmarks were: A substantive discussion among the Syrian parties on specific constitutional reforms; meeting for longer than a few symbolic …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Conflict and Hunger (via VTC)

Just over two years ago, the Council passed Resolution 2417, which made clear the linkages between insecurity and hunger. These past two years have underscored that connection. Insecurity and violence borne of various sources, from terrorism to political violence, have a profound impact on vulnerable populations. Families are torn apart. Livelihoods are upended. Rule of …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council High-Level Discussion on Humanitarian Effects of Environmental Degradation on Peace and Security (via VTC)

In times of conflict, the illegal exploitation of resources is used to support and fuel the conflict, to the extreme detriment of the local populations. Indeed, the exploitation of natural resources and related environmental stresses frequently become part of the full range of the conflict cycle. Minerals, timber, wildlife, land, and water resources can quickly …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria (via VTC)

The Syrian people themselves continue to face a humanitarian disaster and remain in need of strong humanitarian response from the international community. There is no doubt that Syria’s humanitarian challenges would be lessened if the Assad regime was committed to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of the Syrian people. But the regime is not. …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in South Sudan (via VTC)

The United States fully recognizes the efforts – domestic, regional, and international – which support achieving these benchmarks. We applaud the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and other regional partners who continue to play a key role in achieving progress. We also recognize and welcome South Sudan’s role in brokering peace agreements for Sudan.

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Explanation of Vote on the Adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2543 on the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan

The United States remains deeply committed to Afghanistan and to SRSG Lyons’ work and leadership at UNAMA. As the mission sustains support to the people of Afghanistan during this pivotal period in the country’s history, and as the parties embark upon peace negotiations on a political solution to end the conflict, the United States supports …

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Statement on the Mandate Renewal for the UN Support Mission in Libya

The United States welcomes the renewal of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) mandate in UNSCR 2542 (2020), which includes the creation of a new UN Special Envoy for Libya position. A Special Envoy to lead UNSMIL, with the backing of the Security Council, will be well positioned to focus on mediation with Libyan …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Yemen

In that vein, the United States urges the Government of the Republic of Yemen and the Houthis to work with Special Envoy Griffiths towards agreement on the final draft of the Joint Declaration. We regret that this process has not yet made more progress. The Yemeni people, as we just heard so clearly – struggling …

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Statement on the Tenth Anniversary of the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women)

This year marks many important anniversaries for women’s equality and empowerment around the world. Here in the United States, we are celebrating the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote. In the United Nations, we are recognizing the 20th anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security, the 25th anniversary …

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Explanation of Vote on the Resolution on the Economic and Social Repercussions of the Israeli Occupation on the Living Conditions of the Palestinian

The only realistic path to end this conflict is through negotiations aimed at achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace. Biased and counterproductive resolutions and reports like these have no place in our discourse. Rather than perpetuating politicized resolutions and reports such as this, the international community should rally around productive and tangible efforts that improve …

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Explanation of Vote on the Resolution on Support to Non-Self-Governing Territories by the Specialized Agencies and International Institutions Associat

We agree in principle that UN funds, programs, and specialized agencies can provide useful support to territories that are not UN members. However, the Administering Power has the sovereign responsibility to determine the manner in which its territories can participate in the UN system. We reiterate that the domestic laws and policies of a territory’s …

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Explanation of Vote on the Resolution on the Situation of and Assistance to Palestinian Women

We remain concerned about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, including reports that Hamas authorities have undertaken efforts to limit women’s ability to appear in public and to move freely. We are also concerned that punishment of women for so-called “ethical” crimes continues unchecked.

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Explanation of Position on the New Strategic Vision of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia

Regarding the current resolution, the United States applauds the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia for its response to the Secretary General’s call to become more nimble, efficient, and effective as an organization. Furthermore, we welcome ESCWA’s prioritization of tasks and corresponding cost offsets to ensure a cost-neutral 2021 program of work. Moving forward, …

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Explanation of Position on the Resolution on the United Response Against Global Health Threats; Combatting COVID-19

The United States is also pleased that this resolution underscores the importance of sharing timely, accurate, and transparent information in the effort to combat the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Transparency is critical for a unified response to this pandemic. Effective mitigation of a public health crisis like COVID-19 requires government and international organization transparency and accountability, the full …

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Explanation of Vote on the Omnibus Resolution: Comprehensive and Coordinated Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

The United States has been and remains the largest bilateral donor of global health assistance. Over just the past few weeks, we have increased our funding for the development of vaccines and therapeutics, global preparedness efforts, and overseas economic, health, and humanitarian aid from $12 billion to more than $20.5 billion. Our steadfast and heartfelt …

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Joint Statement after UN Security Council Consultations on Myanmar

As committed supporters of Myanmar’s democratic transition, we recognise the efforts made by Myanmar’s government in the country’s democratization. The elections on 8 November are an important milestone in Myanmar’s transition, which the international community has supported with funding and technical expertise. We underline the importance of ensuring individuals of all communities, including Rohingya, are …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Syria Chemical Weapons (via VTC)

In 2013, this Council adopted Resolution 2118 welcoming the Framework for Elimination of Syrian Chemical Weapons. That Framework expressed the U.S. and Russian determination to “ensure the destruction of the Syrian chemical weapons program in the soonest and safest manner.” Further, the Framework set the first half of 2014 as the target date for completing …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on Children and Armed Conflict

The United States remains fully committed to supporting the UN’s critical work to address the effects of conflict on children. There is no issue more important than those affecting the next generations of leaders and citizens in the world. It is only when we support every child in reaching their fullest potential that we will …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Arria Formula Meeting on Youth, Peace, and Security (via VTC)

The United States recognizes the vital and diverse role that young people play in our governments, political processes, civil society, and international organizations in shaping a secure and prosperous future. Our focus on youth, peace, and security today could not be more timely. Youth are the most vulnerable victims when schools are shut down because …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Discussion on Resolution 2532 on COVID-19 (via VTC)

Since this pandemic began, the Trump Administration has been very clear that transparency and the timely sharing of public health data and information are essential to fighting it effectively. Unfortunately, however, failures at the outset of the pandemic by the People’s Republic of China, where COVID-19 originated and was first diagnosed have imperiled all of …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on the International Organization of the Francophonie (via VTC)

Since its creation, the OIF has used its good offices, its ability to mobilize French-speaking professionals and technical experts, and its coordination capabilities to help maintain peace, strengthen democratic institutions, and reinforce human rights. These efforts have played out not just in French-speaking countries, but all over the world.

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Remarks at the Initiative on Financing for Development in the Era of COVID-19 and Beyond Finance Ministers Meeting (via VTC)

As the world continues to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, its negative economic impact is becoming clearer across all sectors of our societies.  We must continue our coordinated effort to address the near-, mid-, and long-term consequences of the pandemic and return to growth and development.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Arria-Formula Meeting on the Human Rights Situation in Belarus (via VTC)

The Belarusian government must promote and protect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of its people. Instead, we see consistent abuses of the rights of peaceful assembly and freedom of association and expression – and these abuses must be addressed immediately. The United States vows to support Belarusian sovereignty and independence, and we call on …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Afghanistan (via VTC)

We urge all sides to move swiftly to deny spoilers the opportunity to shake the faith of those demanding peace now, when Afghanistan is closer than ever to advancing its peace process. President Ghani’s decree paving the way for the government’s release of members of the Taliban, following the brave decision of the Loya Jirga, …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Libya (via VTC)

Libya is at a critical juncture. With UNSMIL and international partners, we welcome the August 21 declaration by Libya’s Prime Minister and Speaker of the House of Representatives calling for a ceasefire, demilitarization, resumption of oil sector operations, and a return to UN-facilitated political talks.

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Explanation of Vote on the Renewal of Measures Found in Resolution 2374

The United States is deeply concerned about the recent developments in Mali and is monitoring the situation there closely. Although we have been made aware of reports of President Keita’s release, we call on the mutinous officers to immediately release the other officials they have extrajudicially detained in good health and to pave the way …

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Explanation of Vote on a UN Security Council Draft Resolution on Threats to International Peace and Security Caused by Terrorist Acts

There is no nation on earth more committed to confronting and defeating terrorism than the United States of America. Under the leadership of President Trump, the United States has crushed ISIS and taken out its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. In January, the United States rid the world of another dangerous terrorist – Iranian Quds Force …

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Explanation of Vote on the Resolution to Renew UNSOM

Today’s vote on the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) underscores the strong and continued commitment of the United States and international community to supporting peace, stability, and development in Somalia. UNSOM remains a critical partner to the Federal Government of Somalia and the federal member states in bringing political, security, and economic stability …

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Explanation of Vote on the Resolution to Renew UNIFIL

The United States is committed to an effective and accountable UNIFIL mission and supports the resolution today with that goal in mind. Today’s action is an important step in that direction, and I applaud my French counterparts for working diligently with us toward this outcome. Today we halt a long period of Council complacency on …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria (via VTC)

At this time of significant humanitarian need, the welfare of millions of Syrians remains at the mercy of the political calculations of the Assad regime and the Russian Federation. Due to the callous and inhumane Russian and Chinese vetoes earlier this summer, UN humanitarian access via the cross-border modality is forced to trickle into Syria …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Arria-Formula Meeting on Cyber Attacks Against Critical Infrastructure (via VTC)

The United States believes strongly that all UN member states must work together to safeguard the extraordinary benefits of cyberspace. UN member states have been considering the security of cyberspace for more than two decades, and remain focused on two areas of work: domestic cybersecurity policy best practices and how to achieve and maintain international …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Iraq (via VTC)

During their meeting at the White House, President Trump and Prime Minister Kadhimi reaffirmed that the strategic partnership between the United States and Iraq is based on a mutual desire for security and prosperity. We continue to work in close coordination to ensure ISIS is rendered incapable of posing a threat to Iraq or any …

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Additional Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Middle East (via VTC)

For months and months, we told the Council that President Trump would never allow the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism to freely buy and sell planes, tanks, missiles, and other kinds of conventional weapons. The countries of the Middle East most familiar with Iran’s terror pressed us to stay true to our commitment.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Middle East (via VTC)

The leadership and foresight of President Trump, as well as Prime Minister Netanyahu and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed made this momentous achievement possible. Opening direct ties between two of the Middle East’s most dynamic societies and advanced economies will transform the region by spurring economic growth, enhancing technological innovation, and forging closer people-to-people relations.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Counterterrorism (via VTC)

Last year, we saw how our collective efforts resulted in ISIS’s loss of territorial control and the death of its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. These victories in the battle against ISIS are a testament to the ongoing work of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS. The Coalition continues to pursue four main non-military lines of …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Somalia

Mr. President, Somalia sits before a moment of profound opportunity. The country faces difficult circumstances and security challenges to get there, however, including the attack on a hotel Mogadishu last weekend, which the United States condemns. We express our condolences to the victims and their families. This and other attacks highlight the need for Somalia …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Political Situation in Syria (via VTC)

I want to take a moment to note the irony in discussing this issue after the results of last Friday’s vote on renewing an arms embargo on Iran. Iran continues to engage in activity in Syria that is counter to the interests of the Syrian people, and yet many members of this Council voted on Friday …

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Explanation of Vote on the U.S. Resolution Extending the Iran Arms Embargo

One of the enduring truths of the last 75 years is that the United Nations rarely lives up to its own ideals, and far too often falls victim to the narrowest political interests of its membership. Well, today was one of those days. When the worst tendency of the United Nations was on display in …

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Statement by Ambassador Kelly Craft on the Introduction of a U.S. Resolution Extending the Iran Arms Embargo

Today the United States introduced a draft Security Council resolution to extend the existing embargo on conventional weapons sales to and from Iran. The resolution introduced by the United States follows months of active American diplomacy. It is a straightforward, common-sense measure requested by countries in the Middle East that have suffered the most as …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on Pandemics and Security (via VTC)

We adopted Resolution 2532 a little over a month ago, supporting the Secretary-General’s call for a global ceasefire to secure a respite for countries and regions that, weakened by violence and conflict, are especially vulnerable to the virus. We should now reflect on how the pandemic has affected particularly sensitive areas.

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Remarks at a Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Lebanon (via VTC)

The Lebanese people are among the most generous in the world. Over the last decade they have welcomed over 1 million refugees from Syria. And now, we are committed to do all we can to help the Lebanese people in their hour of need. We recognize the urgent requirements for emergency medical support, shelter materials, …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Guinea-Bissau

Guinea-Bissau faces a wide range of challenges, and the COVID-19 pandemic has brought new negative economic effects and further complicated the political landscape. The United States is particularly appreciative of you and your team’s efforts to execute a comprehensive and sustainable transition of the Mission’s responsibilities to the UN Country Team and other UN organizations …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Linkages between Terrorism and Transnational Organized Crime (via VTC)

It is clear that in some cases and some regions, terrorist and organized criminal groups exploit and benefit from weak democratic institutions and law enforcement and take advantage of porous borders and ungoverned or under-governed territories. In some parts of the world, these conditions provide opportunities for terrorists and transnational criminal groups to coexist in …

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Joint Statement on the Continued Russian Occupation of Georgia (via VTC)

The continuing Russian military presence in the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia as well as Russia’s recognition of the so-called independence of these regions violates the territorial integrity of Georgia and undermines Georgia’s sovereignty, as well as the Rules Based International Order.

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Statement at the 2nd Resumed Part of the 74th UN General Assembly

We appreciate the constructive spirit of compromise that we have seen from delegations this session. While we deeply regret that we could not find a more timely agreement on the secondment of active-duty military and police personnel, despite broad consensus, we look forward to working with all delegations to find a permanent solution at the …

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Statement at the Launch Event: Group of Friends of Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief

The international community must stand together in calling for the equitable treatment of all regardless of religion or ethnicity, and in urging governments to hold accountable perpetrators of abuses, to provide unhindered humanitarian access to all in need, and to ensure equal protection for all.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria (via VTC)

The Council’s adoption of Resolution 2533 provides a lifeline and hope to millions of internally displaced persons in northwest Syria, who have relied on the UN’s cross-border humanitarian aid deliveries day-in and day-out over the past five years. They know now they will continue to receive life-saving food, shelter, and medicine for another year, including …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Yemen

It is important the parties de-escalate the tensions on the ground and recommit to a UN-mediated political settlement. Cross-border Houthi attacks undermine efforts toward a settlement that can only serve to prolong the conflict – and the suffering of the Yemeni people. And as Mark has stated today, that this is leaving millions of the …

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Explanation of Vote on the Adoption of the Central African Republic Sanctions Resolution

Our governments hope the extension of the sanctions regime, and especially the territorial arms embargo, will keep pressure on the armed groups that undermine CAR’s peace and security by threatening its elected government and its people. It is an important element to accompany the CAR government on its way towards stability and peace.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Arria-Formula Meeting on Women and the Afghan Peace Process (via VTC)

We know that Afghan women, for far too long, have borne the brunt of this lengthy conflict and that they have been regularly excluded from discussions about Afghanistan’s future. We recognize there have been social, economic, and political impediments in Afghanistan that have hindered meaningful inclusion of women and girls.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on Climate and Security (via VTC)

The United States reaffirms our commitment to working with our global partners to enhance resilience to the impacts of climate change and prepare for and respond to natural disasters. Just as we have in the past, the United States will continue to research, innovate, and grow our economy while reducing emissions and extending a helping …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Political Situation in Syria (via VTC)

We need to see a real, genuine progress and negotiations. Not staged photo opportunities and elections that are far from being free and fair. The Trump Administration sees the July 19 parliamentary elections for exactly what they are – a false pretext to undermine the UN-led political process and another in a long line of …

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The General Statement of the United States in the Context of the 53rd Session of the Commission on Population and Development

We appreciate the final compromise text put forward by the Chair, which protected individual Member States’ sovereignty on sensitive issues such as abortion. We regret that this text did not move forward as it included agreed text that has been an ongoing necessity to make consensus possible both now and in the past.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Middle East (via VTC)

A number of factors contribute to the desperate situation in Gaza, however, the oppressive rule of a terrorist organization, Hamas, is at the center. Today, Hamas pretends to function as a government, employing violent intimidation tactics against any chance for free press, civil society, and freedom of expression. Hamas’ charter states “there is no solution …

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Statement on the “Report of the Secretary-General on the Economic and Social Repercussions of the Israeli occupation”

The United States shares with many members of the international community the same goal of a lasting and comprehensive peace between Israel and the Palestinians.  We continue to pursue the path that President Trump set out in January when presenting the U.S. Vision for Peace.  In our view, this plan is the best and most realistic framework …

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Remarks at the UN General Assembly Observation of the Annual Nelson Mandela International Day (via VTC)

Over the course of many decades, Nelson Mandela strove for justice in words and deeds. In addition to playing a leading role in defeating Apartheid and ushering in a new era for the people of South Africa, President Mandela was a global leader in ending stigma against persons with HIV/AIDS and promoting the search for …

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Remarks at the UN Security Council High-Level Annual Open Debate on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (via VTC)

We cannot discuss sexual violence in conflict without acknowledging the very serious impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on women and girls. When we discussed the pandemic on July 2, we talked about the impact of self-quarantine and stay-at-home orders as an exacerbating risk factor for gender-based violence, particularly intimate partner violence against women. We are …

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Statement by Ambassador Craft on the Report of the Commission on Unalienable Rights

This landmark report describes the American rights tradition and how we have evolved as a nation based on our founding principle of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. It has been a constant struggle, marked by historic breakthroughs, as we work toward achieving our central belief that every person possesses unalienable rights that must …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Yemen (via VTC)

Since March of 2015, the Safer oil tanker has been under Houthi control, and Houthi inaction has turned the Safer and its million-plus barrels of oil into a ticking time bomb. Any kind of ship that sits in the sea has to be regularly maintained. Without maintenance, rot sets in and the hull could breach. …

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Remarks at an Arria-Formula Meeting on Natural Resources in the Great Lakes (via VTC)

The illegal exploitation of the DRC’s natural resources impacts nearly everyone at every level in the country, from people whose lives and livelihoods are directly threatened by armed groups to people who could have seized the opportunity for education and formal sector employment if only there had been the option.

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Explanation of Position for the CSW Resolution Titled “Release of Women and Children Taken Hostage in Armed Conflicts

U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York July 14, 2020 AS SUBMITTED FOR THE RECORD Thank you, Chair. Thanks to the delegation of Azerbaijan for its effective facilitation of this important biannual resolution. Their successful facilitation promoted a constructive dialogue during the negotiations even on the most challenging issues, eventually leading to …

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Explanation of Position for the Commission on the Status of Women’s Resolution Titled “The Multi-Year Programme of Work”

U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York July 14, 2020 AS SUBMITTED FOR THE RECORD Thank you, Chair. The United States is pleased to join consensus on the resolution outlining the Commission on the Status of Women’s program of work for the next several years. We would like to thank the delegation …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Colombia

I’d like to begin by commending the government and people of Colombia, and the Verification Mission, for their efforts to continue implementing the peace accord against the backdrop of COVID-19. The pandemic has worsened an already complex humanitarian situation and it has negatively impacted the security situation of women and girls. It has strained health …

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Explanation of Vote on the Adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2533 on Syria Cross-Border Humanitarian Aid Deliveries

Today, the UN Security Council worked on behalf of the very people the Charter set out to protect. The United States thanks co-penholders Belgium and Germany for their responsible stewardship of this negotiation, and once again thanks all of those Council members who stood up for what was right. Today, we saved lives.

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Explanation of Vote on a Russian Draft UN Security Council Resolution on Syria Cross-Border Humanitarian Assistance

The text that Russia presented today was entirely predictable; it follows their now established pattern to obstruct, lie, deny, and distract. The Russian draft did not come close to meeting the humanitarian needs of the Syrian people. It is riddled with false and misleading language related to sanctions targeted at the Assad regime – clearly …

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Explanation of Vote on a Belgian and German Draft UN Security Council Resolution on Syria Cross-Border Humanitarian Assistance

Today, the United States again voted in favor of a draft resolution that would have enabled the UN and its implementing partners to deliver humanitarian assistance to otherwise inaccessible places inside northwest Syria through two border crossings. We cast our vote to save nearly 3 million Syrian lives, and we were proud to do it …

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U.S. National Statement to the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (via VTC)

The High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development is focusing on the world’s most pressing development challenges in the context of a devastating global pandemic. As we look forward to the Decade of Action, the achievement of sustainable development will be severely challenged by these and other disruptions. The United States is committed to the values …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in West Africa and the Sahel (via VTC)

With growing instability and the COVID crisis, 2020 has proven and is showing to be a critical year for the future of West Africa and the Sahel. West Africa will see five presidential elections from October to December, including in Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Niger. We look to UNOWAS to play a …

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Statement by Ambassador Kelly Craft on U.S. Opposition to the Russian Resolution on Humanitarian Aid to Syria

Yesterday Russia and China vetoed a compromise Security Council resolution that would have maintained two humanitarian border crossings into Syria – the bare minimum necessary to address the growing desperation of Syria’s civilian population. That resolution had the support of the thirteen other Council members, including the United States.

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Explanation of Vote on the Russian Draft UN Security Council Resolution on Syria Cross-Border Humanitarian Aid

The United States of America voted against the draft resolution authored by the Russian Federation today. We are disappointed, but not surprised, by Russia’s disingenuous attempt to put forward a resolution designed to protect the murderous Assad regime and divide this Council.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Libya (via VTC)

Since this Council last met to discuss Libya, we have seen dramatic shifts on both the military and health fronts. On the military battlefield, fighting has led to territorial gains for one side and losses for the other, and unfortunately a continued influx of foreign fighters, weapons, and materiel for both. And on the COVID-19 …

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Statement from Ambassador Craft on Russian and Chinese Vetoes of a UN Security Council Resolution to Extend Cross-Border Aid in Syria

It is sadly no surprise that Russia and China look for every opportunity to support the murderous Assad regime and its campaign of brutality against the Syrian people. Once again the voices of the Syrian people, humanitarian experts, and the Secretary General calling for increased cross-border assistance to Syria have fallen on deaf Russian and …

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Explanation of Vote on the Syria Humanitarian Mandate Renewal Resolution Drafted by Belgium and Germany

Today the United States voted in favor of Belgium and Germany’s draft resolution to renew the UN Security Council’s authorization of the cross-border humanitarian life-line into northwest Syria. In the midst of a global pandemic, this draft resolution would have made it possible for the United Nations and its implementing partners to continue to provide …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Human Rights and Peacekeeping (via VTC)

Human rights are universal, and defending them is non-negotiable. That’s why 154 member states, including the United States, endorsed the Secretary-General’s Declaration of Shared Commitments. These commitments in part recognize that lasting progress in human rights is fundamental to advancing political solutions to conflict. Integrating human rights into peacekeeping enhances the impact of peacekeepers while …

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Explanation of Position Regarding the Election of Iran to Represent the Asia Pacific Group on the UN Forum on Forests Bureau

Iran’s position as vice chair of the UN Forum on Forests represents a disservice to the importance of sustainable forest management. Iran’s targeting and detention of conservationists and environmental activists harms efforts to conserve natural resources.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on Pandemics and Security (via VTC)

Early on, President Trump rightly pointed out the unquestionable need for complete transparency and the timely sharing of public health data and information with the international community. Our recent experiences have only further underscored that important point. Timely age- and sex-disaggregated data collection and accurate, science-based analysis of the origins, characteristics, and spread of the …

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Explanation of Vote on the Resolution on COVID-19

While the United States generally supports the resolution voted on today, we would like to note that it does not include crucial language to emphasize transparency and data-sharing as critical aspects in fighting this virus. We consistently expressed this concern throughout the consultation process on this resolution.

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Explanation of Position Regarding the UN Forum on Forests 15 Omnibus Resolution

With respect to the Paris Agreement and climate change language in this document, the United States reaffirms its intention to withdraw from the Paris Agreement at the earliest opportunity. Therefore, the Paris Agreement and climate change language is without prejudice to U.S. positions. We affirm our support for promoting economic growth and improving energy security, …

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Statement by Ambassador Kelly Craft on Exposing China’s Gross Human Rights Abuses

The world has known about the Chinese Communist Party’s gross and systematic abuses of human rights for decades, but too often turned a blind eye. I salute the United Nations special rapporteurs and human rights experts for courageously breaking this silence and standing up for the Chinese people.

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Explanation of Vote on the Renewal of the Mandate for the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA)

The United States would like to thank Council members for their collaboration during the negotiations. We are grateful for France for conducting the negotiations. As we renew the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) for its eighth year, this Council and the international community must be honest about where we find ourselves in Mali …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (via VTC)

The GERD poses a unique opportunity for this part of Africa, where precipitation droughts, desertification, and economic underdevelopment have befallen generations of people. An agreement on the GERD has the potential to transform a region that is home to over 250 million people, expanding economic opportunities through transboundary cooperation and regional integration.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria (via VTC)

In only 11 days, the Council’s mandate for the life-saving cross-border humanitarian aid mechanism will expire. Eleven days. I can’t overstate how important this Council’s decision will be to millions of people throughout Syria. And the decision before the Council is simple: Will we do the right thing and save lives, or will we allow …

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U.S. Intervention on the Commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of the UN Charter

The United States joins with the international community today to commemorate the signing of the United Nations Charter.  This is an appropriate moment for reflection on the aspirations of the international community when this document was signed, how far we have come since, and yet, how far we have to go.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (via VTC)

The United States recognizes the efforts to date by the Government of the DRC and MONUSCO to develop a joint strategy and benchmarks to prepare for the eventual drawdown and transition of the UN peacekeeping mission out of the eastern DRC. We look forward to hearing the outcomes of these discussions and would encourage the …

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MEDIA NOTE: UN Ambassador Kelly Craft and Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook Brief UN Security Council on Efforts to Extend Iran Arms Embargo

Given that Iran has neither abided by current restrictions nor demonstrated a change in its threatening behavior, Special Representative Hook and Ambassador Craft called on Security Council members to extend the arms embargo.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Middle East (via VTC)

Peace between the Israelis and Palestinians is the primary reason we are gathered here today and President Trump has dedicated so much time and energy into developing the Vision for Peace. The United States cares deeply about the people in the region and we believe that the status quo hurts both the Israelis and the …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on Children and Armed Conflict (via VTC)

Fifteen years after the Council established its working group on Children and Armed Conflict and the UN-led monitoring and reporting mechanism, the United States remains fully committed to supporting this critical work – because the impact of conflict on children remains all too real around the world. Far too often, and sadly, we still see …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in South Sudan (via VTC)

The United States remains concerned about increasing violence in Jonglei State, including widespread sexual and gender-based violence. This has already killed at least 600 individuals this year and resulted in the abduction of 150 women and girls. The violence, which is spreading to other parts of the country, risks eroding gains in the peace process …

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Statement on the Agenda Item 3: Annual Report of the Executive Director at the UN Women Executive Board Virtual Annual Session

We categorically reject efforts by a self-appointed and narrowly drawn group of activists to overturn and supplant the delicate consensus reached by Member States at Beijing and to circumvent the multilateral process that supports global progress for women. We have repeatedly urged UN Women to address the serious problem.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (via VTC)

First and foremost, today, we want to congratulate the Government of the Central African Republic on its efforts to advance preparations for credible, free, and fair elections. We were especially heartened by the Constitutional Court’s recent decision emphasizing that, quote, “any slippage of the electoral calendar should derive from broad national consultations seeking a consensual …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Haiti (via VTC)

As we all know, COVID-19 has placed significant stress on Haiti’s already fragile healthcare system. Reports of attacks on COVID-19 patients, and on medical facilities treating them, are deeply concerning, as fear and distrust will only worsen the situation. In this challenging time, the United States stands with Haiti: to date, we have committed over …

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Statement on the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict 

The United States remains strongly committed at the highest levels to prevent sexual violence in conflict, hold perpetrators accountable, and support survivors. We continue to promote equality and accountability by leveraging the full weight of the U.S. government including through the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) strategy to promote human rights and dignity for all …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing by the High Commissioner for Refugees (via VTC)

The United States commends UNHCR’s efforts to assist and empower millions of refugees and internally displaced and stateless people around the globe. Especially in times like this, we would be remiss not to acknowledge the thousands of aid workers in the field who are not only “staying and delivering” assistance to the most vulnerable, but …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Political Situation in Syria (via VTC)

The United States reiterates its call for the Assad regime to immediately release the thousands of civilians being held arbitrarily in detention centers, where – as we’ve noted before – crowded and inhumane conditions significantly increase the risk of a rapid spread of COVID-19. Equally important is progress on the Constitutional Committee, whose stakeholders have …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing by the UN Investigative Team for Accountability of Da’esh/ISIL (via VTC)

The United States’ commitment to UNITAD is unwavering. Not only did we contribute $2 million nationally in support of UNITAD’s first exhumations of mass grave sites in the Yezidi Sinjar region, but we provided an additional $1 million to UNITAD’s work with Iraqi religious minority communities, including Christians and Shabaks.

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Remarks at the “IMF and COVID-19: The Global Economic Response” Event

Our urgent priority is to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic and its intertwined health, social, and economic impacts. We are determined to protect lives, safeguard people’s jobs and incomes, support the global economy, and ensure the resilience of the international financial system. In response to the pandemic, the U.S. continues to be the largest global provider …

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Cross-Regional Statement on “Infodemic” in the Context of COVID-19

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus and declaration of the pandemic, the UN Secretary-General and other senior leaders of the UN and its institutions have increasingly drawn attention to the challenge of the “infodemic” [1] or misinformation and disinformation pandemic. Quoting the UN Secretary General, “as COVID-19 spreads, a tsunami of misinformation, hate, scapegoating …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Central Africa (via VTC)

The United States is committed to supporting COVID-19 response efforts in the subregion, and we share your concern regarding the ability of national health systems to prevent the spread – especially in countries already experiencing humanitarian crises. To that end, we have committed more than $1 billion for emergency health, humanitarian, economic, and development assistance …

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Statement on the Humanitarian Affairs Segment of the Economic and Social Council

The United States is pleased to join other Member States in supporting the “Call to Action in support of humanitarian response in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic,” put forward by this year’s Chair, Morocco. During these unprecedented circumstances, all of our best efforts must focus on addressing this pandemic to ensure recovery and progress toward a …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Mali (via VTC)

I wish to congratulate you and your country’s courageous forces for killing the leader of Al Qaida in northern Africa, Abdelmalek Droukdel, along with members of his inner circle, last week. This daring operation and others, such as the capture of a senior Islamic State group commander in Mali last month, are exacting severe blows …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing by the International Criminal Court Prosecutor on Sudan (via VTC)

Despite the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which are being felt everywhere, we are heartened to see continued positive developments in Sudan over the past few months. The civilian-led transitional government (CLTG), in their discussions with armed opposition, are demonstrating that they are committed to justice for victims of atrocities in the Darfur conflict.

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Statement on the International Day to Protect Education from Attack

U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York June 9, 2020 Statement on the Resolution for the International Day to Protect Education from Attack The United States joins consensus on this “International Day to Protect Education from Attack” resolution, and strongly believes that education in emergencies can provide life-saving safe spaces, access to …

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Remarks at the Meeting of the UN Steering Committee on Partnerships for Small Island Developing States (via VTC)

The United States has acted swiftly to respond to and mitigate the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic among SIDS. I want to highlight our some key assistance data, but to echo as well some of the calls for action today. To date, the U.S. government has allocated over $122 million in health assistance to Pacific Island countries. 

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (via VTC)

The United States wishes to congratulate the Residual Mechanism, the Government of France, and all the other national and international bodies that collaborated to bring about the recent arrest of Rwandan businessman, Félicien Kabuga, who was indicted for genocide, crimes against humanity, and other serious violations of international humanitarian law.

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U.S. Statement on the Impact of Women Leaders in the Fight Against COVID-19

We have seen COVID-19 quickly unleashed interconnected health, social, and economic consequences that affect all member states. As the world prepares for the associated second- and third-order effects of the disease, women around the world are serving on the frontlines of this crisis. In the United States today, one in three American women hold a …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the G5 Sahel Joint Force (via VTC)

The G5 Sahel Joint Force remains the long-term solution to reestablishing security in the Sahel. The United States is committed to supporting the Joint Force by providing equipment, training, and advisory support to fill critical capability gaps on a bilateral basis and continue to call on other countries to do the same. We commend the …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on UN Peacekeeping Operations (via VTC)

The pandemic has challenged UN peacekeeping missions in new and unforeseen ways, including through suspended troop rotations, restrictions on movement of personnel and equipment, the need for quarantine and isolation facilities, and access issues in countries such as South Sudan. Force Commanders have re-prioritized mandate implementation while dealing with movement restrictions on troops. But even …

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Statement by the United States of America for the first meeting on Treaty Body Reform (via VTC)

The United States has been integrally involved in conversations about treaty body reform since well before Resolution 68/268. The treaty body system plays a critical role in holding States accountable for their human rights obligations. We firmly support efforts to strengthen it and to enhance coordination among the bodies.

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U.S. Statement on the Proposed Resolution for the 2020 ECOSOC Humanitarian Affairs Segment

We appreciate the Chair’s efforts during negotiations of this resolution to bring delegations to consensus under unprecedented circumstances. However, we are disappointed with the approach the Chair chose to take for this year’s resolution, specifically that the vast majority of this year’s text is a cut-and-paste job from previous text, key elements of which garnered …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Syria Chemical Weapons (via VTC)

Last month, when we gathered to discuss this issue, we were briefed by OPCW Director-General Fernando Arias and IIT Coordinator Santiago Onate. They provided the Council with an important overview of the IIT’s first report, which explicitly attributed responsibility to the Assad regime for three chemical weapons attacks in Syria in March 2017. They did …

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Protesting China’s Unlawful Maritime Claims at the UN

I have the honor to convey a letter to you regarding Note Verbale No. CML/14/2019 sent by the Permanent Mission of the People’s Republic of China to you on December 12, 2019 in response to the submission by Malaysia to the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS) dated December 12, 2019. The …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council AOB on Hong Kong (via VTC)

In 1984, the People’s Republic of China made a promise to the United Kingdom and the People of Hong Kong. It was a binding promise. A solemn promise witnessed by this very community and registered here at the UN as a formal treaty. But today, the Council must confront the shameful fact that China’s promise …

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Statement by Ambassador Kelly Craft at Today’s UN Security Council Discussion of the Situation in Hong Kong

For decades, Hong Kong has flourished as a bastion of freedom and enterprise – dynamic, prosperous, and secure. In 1984, the People’s Republic of China made a promise to the United Kingdom and the people of Hong Kong. It was a binding, solemn promise made in the presence of the international community and registered here …

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Call for UN Security Council Meeting on Hong Kong

The United States is deeply concerned by actions taken by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) National People’s Congress that fundamentally undermine Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy and freedoms as guaranteed under the Sino-British Joint Declaration of 1984, which was registered with the UN as a legally binding treaty, and the Basic Law. This …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict (via VTC)

The United States has already provided over $1 billion in health and humanitarian aid to combat COVID-19. Our foreign assistance is saving lives and helping address economic devastation around the world. Consistent with the U.S. strategy on Women, Peace, and Security, we are working to ensure our assistance includes local strategies to mitigate COVID-19’s acute …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Arria-Formula Meeting on Cyber Stability and Responsible State Behavior in Cyberspace (via VTC)

The United States remains committed to working with all member states to safeguard the extraordinary benefits of cyberspace. We must all redouble our efforts – and not just in New York and Geneva – to create accountability for state actions in cyberspace. Cyberspace has become a central and indispensable domain of global activity, and its …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Somalia (via VTC)

The United States welcomes the positive developments Somalia has made so far this year. Debt relief has opened new access to international grants to support economic growth, development, and reform. The Somalia National Army forces and AMISOM have continued to gain ground south of Mogadishu against Al-Shabaab. And the meeting between President Farmaajo and Somaliland …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Venezuela (via VTC)

The letter from the illegitimate Maduro regime that prompted today’s meeting is – as such letters always are – a long-winded compilation of fantastical accusations and demonstrable falsehoods. Unfortunately, for the second time in less than a month our Russian colleagues have indulged their client regime’s habit of blaming others for its appalling choices.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Middle East (via VTC)

Today, I want to speak about what needs to be done to move in the direction of meaningful progress in the Middle East. We listened closely to what each Council member will be saying about this matter and what they have said in February, March, and in April. So, I want to note, as I …

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Statement by Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet at the Operational Activities ECOSOC Segment

Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet Acting Deputy Permanent Representative U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York May 29, 2020 AS DELIVERED Mr. Secretary-General Thank you for your support in creating a robust Operational Activities Segment with a diverse set of colleagues contributing global, regional, and country level perspectives. We greatly appreciate Mexico’s leadership …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Syria (via VTC)

The United States remains deeply concerned about the spread of COVID-19 in Syria. This Council knows full well that the virus is worsening the existing humanitarian crisis, and that the country’s already fragile health system, continuing displacement, high population density, and low levels of sanitation heighten the risk of a severe outbreak. Left unaddressed, an …

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Joint Statement on the Disability-Inclusive Response to COVID-19 – Towards a Better Future for All

The COVID-19 pandemic represents a human crisis of unprecedented scale, seriously affecting health and disrupting the livelihood and overall wellbeing of people all over the world. It impacts human rights and exacerbates inequalities already in existence. Persons with disabilities have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, and we need to ensure that they are not …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Libya (via VTC)

To begin today, I want to be clear about the following points: all actors involved in the conflict in Libya must immediately suspend military operations; they must halt the ongoing transfer of foreign military equipment and personnel to Libya, including, as the UK mentioned, Wagner Group mercenaries; and they must allow local health authorities to …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Syria (via VTC)

What is becoming increasingly clear is that the Assad regime is intent on exploiting the COVID-19 crisis to its own strategic political and military advantage. When Russia and China forced the reduction of cross-border aid points from four to two, they said that the UN should engage the regime to facilitate cross-line aid from Damascus …

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Statement on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOTB)

In recognition of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, the United States Mission to the United Nations reaffirms its commitment to the principle that “the inherent dignity and … the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world.” Under …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Burma (via VTC)

The United States remains concerned about the situation in Burma, and the many factors there with the potential to affect the peace and stability not only of Burma, but of the wider region. The significant number of internally displaced persons, as well as people living in refugee camps in neighboring countries, continue to face great …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Working Methods of the Security Council (via VTC)

The Security Council has demonstrated its resilience and flexibility in adapting its working methods during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been impressive to see us continue to conduct the Council’s important and lifesaving work during such a difficult time, and it is a testament to the commitment and professionalism of every delegation around this virtual …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Yemen (via VTC)

In light of these hardships, we welcome the Saudi-led Coalition’s extension of its unilateral ceasefire in support of the UN peace process and efforts to fight COVID-19. The U.S. strongly urges the Houthis to join the Government of Yemen in halting offensive operations in support of this ceasefire. This is so that all parties may …

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Media Note: Statement on Iran’s Defiance of UN Security Council Resolution 2231

This launch was carried out by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a terrorist organization responsible for decades of violence and thousands of deaths throughout the Middle East. The IRGC’s leading role in Iran’s space program puts to rest Iran’s absurd claims that its space program is solely civilian in nature. It is not.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Lebanon (via VTC)

Late April saw a disturbing turn of events in Lebanon. Peaceful protests that began in October became violent, amid economic distress and major public health concerns. Lebanon’s currency has collapsed. Its banking system is reeling. And inflation is spiraling out of control. We welcome Prime Minister Diab’s reform efforts, and we encourage him to undertake …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Syria (via VTC)

Last month, the Council received from the Secretary-General the first report issued by the OPCW’s Investigation and Identification Team. The report explicitly attributed to the Assad regime responsibility for three chemical weapons attacks in Syria in March of 2017. Now, today, we have heard in person from the leaders of the OPCW and its IIT …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Iraq (via VTC)

Last week’s confirmation of Prime Minister al-Kadhimi by Iraq’s Council of Representatives marks a tremendous achievement. In the face of COVID-19, low oil prices, and long-standing economic and security challenges – including state control of armed groups – Iraq could not have asked for a more capable leader.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina (via VTC)

The U.S. envisions a modern, multi-ethnic, stable, and prosperous democracy in Bosnia and Herzegovina – one that is responsible for its own destiny. Valentin, your latest reports demonstrates that while there are encouraging signs, there is still much work to do – and that is another thing that you were very honest about this morning …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Lebanon (via VTC)

The United States is closely following the situation in Lebanon, which finds itself in an unprecedented crisis. The need for reform – reform that provides economic opportunity and ends corruption – is especially acute given the extraordinary economic and public health challenges now facing the country. The Trump Administration remains committed to its partnership with …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Libya (via VTC)

It is shameful that several of the most notorious perpetrators of crimes against the Libyan people this past decade continue to enjoy impunity. Saif al-Islam Qadhafi, Mahmoud al-Werfalli, Al-Tuhamy Mohamed Khaled, and Abdullah al-Senussi should face justice for their alleged crimes. We call on those who harbor Saif al-Islam Qadhafi and Mahmoud al-Werfalli to deliver …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria (via VTC)

The Secretary-General’s report clearly states that the process to gain a response from the Syrian government for a request to deliver medical supplies to the northeast by land or air takes three to four months. Not days, months. In that same amount of time, COVID-19 has spread across the globe and more than 3 million …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Syria (via VTC)

In its report released on April 6th, the UN Board of Inquiry found it was “highly probable” that the Assad regime and its allies launched attacks that destroyed medical facilities – an utterly inexcusable action. We also note and welcome the Secretary-General’s stated intention to appoint a senior independent advisor to address the recommendations of …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on UNISFA (via VTC)

The United States recognizes Ethiopia’s leadership, and we welcome the Ambassador today, in supporting UNISFA, as well as some positive steps Sudan and South Sudan have undertaken to address insecurity in Abyei, such as joint security monitoring, and we welcome the Ambassador to Sudan here today as well. However, despite these steps, the United States …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Youth, Peace, and Security (via VTC)

In so many conflicts, youth continue to be caught in the crosshairs. Ninety percent of the 1.85 billion young women and men in the world today come from developing countries. Twenty five percent of them – more than 400 million people – are directly affected by violence or armed conflict. Surely this cannot continue to …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the UN-African Union Mission in Darfur (via VTC)

The United States stands in solidarity with the Sudanese Government as it continues to engage in the Juba Peace Process, especially in the face of economic challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic. We condemn, as other have today, the assassination attempt last month against Prime Minister Hamdok, and we remain concerned about continued insecurity, including ongoing …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the UN Mission in Kosovo (via VTC)

The United States supports a stable, secure, and prosperous Western Balkans, and we are committed to helping countries in the region advance their integration into Western institutions. Furthermore, it has been encouraging to hear continued statements from both Kosovo and Serbian leaders that they remain committed to the normalization of relations.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Middle East (via VTC)

Israel is suffering from over 13,000 cases of coronavirus, and we understand that there are more than 300 cases in the West Bank and 15 in Gaza. Because of its limited medical infrastructure and fragile economy, Gaza is especially vulnerable to this virus. Fighting the pandemic must remain the focal point of regional authorities. But …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Arria-Formula Meeting on Climate Change and Security Risks (via VTC)

The United States supports a balanced approach that promotes economic growth and improves energy security while protecting the environment with affordable and reliable clean energy technologies. This includes sharing voluntarily, and on mutually-agreed terms, world-class knowledge, data and tools to help countries predict, prepare for, and adapt to change.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Great Lakes Region (via VTC)

Special Envoy Xia, this is a difficult moment and your role is more critical than ever. We urge your office to innovate, including by using videoconferencing technology to support Great Lakes governments. They will need this support especially as they balance their focus on both the COVID-19 response and the political, security, and economic needs …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Conflict-Induced Hunger (via VTC)

Today’s conversation is especially important, as we approach the two-year anniversary of the adoption of Resolution 2417, which acknowledged the clear connection between conflict and hunger. In a perfect world, our discussion today would focus on the positive trajectories we are beginning to see in some countries, where there has been progress in the decoupling …

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Explanation of Position on resolution “International Cooperation to ensure global access to medicines, vaccines and medical equipment to face CO

U.S. MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS Office of Press and Public Diplomacy April 20, 2020 Explanation of Position on resolution “International Cooperation to ensure global access to medicines, vaccines and medical equipment to face COVID-19” The United States remains deeply committed to working with the global community to respond to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. …

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Explanation of Position on the UN General Assembly Resolution on the Rwandan Genocide

Ambassador Kelly Craft Permanent Representative U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York April 23, 2020 Explanation of Position on the UN General Assembly Resolution on the Rwandan Genocide Since the 1994 Genocide in Rwanda and the establishment in 2003 of the “International Day of Reflection on the Genocide in Rwanda,” April 7 …

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Joint statement on safety of journalists and access to information during the COVID-19 crisis

In the light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the undersigned chairs and members of the Groups of Friends on the Safety/Protection of Journalists are calling on all states to protect journalists’ and media workers’ safety, safeguard a free and independent media and ensure unhindered access to information, both online and offline. Free, independent and pluralistic media …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Yemen (via VTC)

Unfortunately, as is too often the case in Yemen, many areas of concern remain. In Marib, internally displaced people and host communities remain equally vulnerable to continued ground fighting and the very real danger of a COVID-19 outbreak. The Houthis’ ballistic missile attacks on Riyadh are unacceptable and directly contravene their stated support for the …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Colombia (via VTC)

The United States stands with Colombia as we all confront the challenges posed by COVID-19. This being personal commitment for me as well, as when I visited Colombia back in November, I would be remiss not to compliment and acknowledge Colombia’s behavior and their full treatment of respect and acknowledge the dignity that they gave …

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Statement in Response to the UN Secretary-General’s Call to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls During the COVID-19 Pandemic

In addition to those women leading their communities in the fight against COVID-19, many women and girls around the world are battling the virus themselves. Moreover, in contexts where women and girls are already at risk of violence, the necessary public health measures put in place to battle the spread of the virus, such as …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on COVID-19 (via VTC)

The United States reiterates today the need for complete transparency and the timely sharing of public health data and information within the international community. The most effective way to contain this pandemic is through accurate, science-based data collection and analysis of the origins, characteristics, and spread of the virus. We cannot stress enough how important …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (via VTC)

As we approach MINUSMA’s mandate renewal in June, the Council needs to reflect on why the situation has continued to deteriorate so rapidly, and what changes should be made to the mandate to more effectively achieve MINUSMA’s objectives. The new mandate must further encourage the Government of Mali and the signatory armed groups to swiftly …

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Statement at the Conclusion of the First Resumed Part of the 74th General Assembly

Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet Acting Deputy Permanent Representative U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York April 3, 2020 AS DELIVERED My delegation would like to express its sincere gratitude to Lionel Berridge and the Fifth Committee Secretariat team for facilitating our first resumed session under unique and difficult circumstances amidst the COVID-19 …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the UN Assistance Mission to Afghanistan (via VTC)

Afghanistan has now suffered through 40 years of war. The United States remains committed to helping Afghanistan achieve a political settlement to end this constant state of conflict. That is why the Trump Administration efforts to create the conditions for Afghans to begin Intra-Afghan Negotiations, which we believe can result in a durable peace.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Middle East (via VTC)

I understand that in the current environment, much of our attention rightly remains focused on minimizing the impact of COVID-19 on communities around the world. We also recognize that this is not the time for a complex discussion of the granular details of the Trump administration’s Vision for Peace. There will be another day to …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Syria (via VTC)

We’ve all seen how disruptive and deadly this virus can be, which is why there is no place where their calls for mercy and restraint are more urgent than in Syria. We reaffirm our full support for you, Geir, as you launch this effort to implement the ceasefire requested by the Council in Resolution 2254. …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Libya (via Video Teleconference)

The Security Council now has even greater reason to ensure Libya finds a political path to stability, as continued conflict threatens to fuel the spread of COVID-19. The United States strongly opposes the renewed fighting in Tripoli this week. This is not the time for violence, but rather for all actors to immediately suspend military …

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U.S. National Statement of the United States Delegation to the 64th Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women

Women’s active role in American political and public life has fundamentally changed the economic, political, and security sectors of our nation.  We know that countries that empower women to participate fully in their societies are more prosperous and successful because we live that reality every day.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Yemen

Once again, we are forced to bring specific attention to Houthi obstruction of humanitarian operations, which has become the unacceptable refrain of these briefings. We reiterate our message from last month to the Houthis: time is running out. Please do not make it impossible for us to continue providing aid in the areas where you …

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Explanation of Vote After the Renewal of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)

The United States reiterates its support for the decision by South Sudan’s leaders to form a new transitional government. We also recognize the hard work of implementing the peace agreement is just beginning, and we urge the transitional government to begin this reform process immediately.

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Statement in the Fifth Committee on Accountability in the UN Secretariat

Anca DiGiacomo Adviser for UN Management and Reform U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York March 11, 2020 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States appreciates the Secretary-General’s Ninth Progress Report on Accountability, as well as the Report of the Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions. We are encouraged …

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Explanation of Vote on the UN Security Council Adoption of a U.S.-Draft Resolution on the U.S.-Taliban Agreement

On February 29th, the United States took a decisive step toward a negotiated peace in Afghanistan with the announcement of a joint declaration with the Afghan government and an agreement with the Taliban. We were pleased to introduce this resolution endorsing the U.S.-Taliban agreement and the U.S.-Afghanistan joint declaration, and we appreciate the Security Council’s …

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CSW 2020: U.S. EOP For Political Declaration (As Delivered)

Ambassador Norman Chalet Acting Deputy Permanent Representative U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York March 9, 2020 AS DELIVERED Thank you. Recognizing the limited time, a longer more complete statement will be posted online, https://go.usa.gov/xdssF . But I would like to highlight a few key points this morning. Enhancing women’s participation in power …

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CSW 2020 Political Declaration: U.S. EOP for Submission to the UN (As Prepared)

Enhancing women’s participation in power structures across economic, political, and social spheres, and from the local to the international level, is critical to advancing individual human dignity. When governments protect and promote the human rights of women and girls, societies prosper. The United States is proud to be leader in the promotion and protection of …

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Remarks at a UN Arria-Format Meeting on Crimea and Human Rights

Russia’s occupation of Crimea translates into a grim reality for many Ukrainians living on the peninsula. Occupation authorities have severely restricted fundamental freedoms, including of expression, association, and peaceful assembly. Nearly all independent media and civil society have had to flee the peninsula, and those that remain operate at great risk to their safety and …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI)

Iraq still stands at a crossroads, as it did when we were briefed last December and in fact, as you said, are still in the headlines. Iraqis are choosing their new political leaders as a result of their legitimate demands regarding economic opportunity, good governance, electoral reforms, and responsiveness to all Iraqis.

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Statement by Ambassador Kelly Craft on U.S. Humanitarian Assistance for the Syria Crisis Response

On behalf of President Trump and Secretary Pompeo, I am here to show American solidarity with the people of Syria.  To date, the generosity of the American people has facilitated a total U.S. humanitarian response to the crisis in Syria of $10.5 billion.  To express our continued commitment, today the Trump Administration is announcing an …

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U.S. Statement at the Fifth Committee of the First Resumed Part of the 74th General Assembly

My delegation is pleased to see the progress made on the Information and Communications Technology strategy and the many accomplishments that have been achieved including the reduction of a significant number of applications and the consolidation of ICT units;  the implementation of security mechanisms to address cyberattacks; the modernization of important functions in the areas …

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Statement by Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet at the First Resumed Part of the 74th UN General Assembly

While my delegation will address the human resources management items in greater detail later this week, we would like to underline that the inability of this committee to reach decisions on critical agenda items, particularly those with policy considerations, inhibits advancement of the Secretary-General’s reform agenda and the important goals set by member states. 

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U.S. National Statement at the High-Level Panel on International Financial Accountability, Transparency, and Integrity for Achieving the 2030 Agenda

The United States appreciates efforts made to address Member States’ concerns in the Panel’s Terms of Reference.  Specifically, we welcome Annex 2 which includes the Financial Action Task Force, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the UN Convention Against Corruption Conference of States Parties, and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime as important …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Emergency Meeting on the Situation in Idlib, Syria

We have now seen Russia and the Assad regime violate Astana ceasefire agreements on three separate occasions: first in Eastern Ghouta, then in Dara’a, and finally in Idlib. This attack should serve as the final nail in the Astana Format’s coffin. It is a format broken beyond all repair and we cannot return to it.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Somalia

The United States is encouraged by the Coordinator of the Panel of Experts’ recent travel to Somalia and meeting with the National Security Advisor to the President. We hope the visit will serve as a building block to re-establish important information sharing and constructive working relations between the 751 Committee and the Federal Government of …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Syria

“There’s nothing that will protect a baby against the bombs being dropped on the tent they’re sleeping in.” Those were the words of Mark Lowcock two days ago when asked what could be done to end the catastrophe in Idlib. It is a wretched image. But for so many Syrians, tragically, he is describing what …

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Statement of the U.S. Special Committee on the Charter of the United Nations and on the Strengthening of the Role of the Organization

As we celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the signing of the UN Charter in San Francisco, we reaffirm our commitment to the Charter, and the spirit of multilateral cooperation embodied in that landmark occasion. In this milestone year, examining and strengthening adherence to the Charter through the work of this Committee takes on renewed importance.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty

As we approach the 50th anniversary of the entry into force of the NPT, we look forward to celebrating this historic occasion together here at the UN on March 5th. Over nearly five decades, the NPT has proven to be critical to the maintenance of international peace and security. It has made us all the …

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Explanation of Vote on a UN Security Council Resolution Extending Yemen Sanctions

The United States voted today in favor of the resolution to extend the Council’s sanctions against the Houthis and others responsible for the conflict in Yemen. These sanctions support the UN’s efforts to find a political solution to this war, and they help us hold spoilers accountable.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Somalia

Mr. President, 2020 is a critical year as Somalia seeks economic growth and development promised by debt relief, inclusive, peaceful, and credible national elections, and progress towards the transfer of security responsibilities from AMISOM to Somali forces. While these developments each hold tremendous promise for the Somali people, realizing them will require the full commitment …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Arria-Formula Meeting on Reprisals Against Women Human Rights Defenders and Peacebuilders

The United States strongly supports women’s human rights defenders and peacebuilders and their participation at the UN Security Council and in subsidiary bodies. Civil society representatives have valuable and unique perspectives on issues that the Security Council faces. Their critical insights cannot be ignored. To uphold justice for victims and accountability for perpetrators, human rights …

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Remarks at a UN General Assembly Briefing on the Situation in Ukraine

The Trump administration reaffirms its unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. We welcome this opportunity to discuss Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, including its ongoing violations of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the Donbas and occupied Crimea.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Syria

Nearly one million Syrians have been forced to flee their homes in the past 90 days. One million people in 90 days. And so, I ask, how much longer will we tolerate these headlines. The unyielding military campaign of the regime, Russia, Iran, and Hizbollah amounts to a wholesale rejection of UN and Council efforts …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Ukraine

The United States’ position is clear: we continue to support the Minsk agreements as the way forward in eastern Ukraine. We fully back the Normandy Format process. The resolution to this conflict must be a diplomatic one, and we will continue to engage with allies and partners to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

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Remarks for General Assembly Opening Debate on C-34

The United States views missions and peacekeeping reforms through the lens of our five principles.  Peacekeeping missions must have the consent and cooperation of the host country; support political solutions; adjust to progress and failure; possess realistic and achievable mandates; and have an exit strategy. 

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Guinea-Bissau

The United States commends Guinea-Bissau for having held peaceful first round and run-off elections in December, with the help of the international community. Free, fair, and transparent elections are the cornerstone of democracy, and we are encouraged by how far Guinea-Bissau has come in empowering its citizens to choose their own leaders.

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Media Note on the United Nations Yemen Panel of Experts Report

Iran attacked Saudi Arabian oil facilities on September 14, 2019. It was an attack not only against a sovereign state but against the global economy as well. The evidence pointed to Iran, despite unsubstantiated claims of responsibility by Houthi rebels in Yemen. Now, a report from the United Nations Security Council’s Yemen Panel of Experts confirms the truth …

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Remarks at the 58th Session of the UN Commission for Social Development

We commend the Commission for Social Development for turning its focus this year, for the first time, to affordable housing and social protections to address homelessness. The issues are at the core of the Sustainable Development Goals and affect cities around the world, including here in New York.

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Statement by Ambassador Craft on the Release of a Database of Companies Doing Business in Israeli-controlled Territories

UNITED STATES MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS OFFICE OF PRESS AND PUBLIC DIPLOMACY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 13, 2020 Statement by Ambassador Kelly Craft on the Release of a Database of Companies Doing Business in Israeli-controlled Territories Earlier this week the Security Council met to discuss President Trump’s Vision for Peace, and used that opportunity …

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Explanation of Vote on the UN Security Council Resolution on Libya Ceasefire

However, I do want to note that we are disappointed that today’s vote did not garner unanimous support among the Council members, despite commitments agreed to by leaders in Berlin, including the Russian Federation. It’s also very unfortunate that foreign mercenaries, including from the Kremlin-linked Wagner Group, are making an inclusive political solution harder to …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Children and Armed Conflict

There is perhaps no group of people harmed more by the absence of peace and security than children. In most cases, they are the most vulnerable among us. And so, we deeply appreciate the efforts of Belgium to highlight global child protection, including through leading consensus on conclusions on Syria, Burma, and Sudan, and by …

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Remarks at the Annual Meeting of the UNICEF Executive Board on Private Fundraising and Partnerships

The United States has long supported strong private sector engagement across the UN and sees private sector engagement in three  key dimensions: 1) the private sector as a source of investment;  2) the private sector as a source of know-how – business models and practices, innovative ideas, and efficiency and effectiveness in achieving outcomes; and …

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Remarks at a Press Availability on the Situation in the Middle East

We are, we are here today, we’re going to be there tomorrow, and, you know, there’s not been a resolution that has carried us this far. Today, we’re all together, we’re talking about peace and security from an international standpoint, and I think that’s what’s really important is this is a beginning today.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Middle East

It is the beginning of a conversation – not the end of one. The United States stands willing to support all efforts to begin this conversation, and moving forward, we hope all parties will keep an open mind, listen, and engage. I’m optimistic all Council members will give this approach a fair hearing, rather than …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Northwest Syria

The Trump Administration condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the Assad regime, Iran, Hezbollah, and Russia’s barbaric and unjustified military offensive. To be quite clear, what we are witnessing is deliberate, lethal violence against thousands of innocent children, women, and men.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing by the Organization for the Security and Cooperation of Europe

Nowhere is the OSCE’s presence more important than in Ukraine. Russia’s ongoing aggression has led to the deaths of more than 13,000 people, displaced 1.4 million people, and left 3.4 million in need of humanitarian assistance. This poses the greatest threat to European security since the Cold War.

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Explanation of Vote after the Renewal of Sanctions in the Central African Republic

The United States is pleased to join the large majority of Council members in voting in favor of this resolution renewing the sanctions regime in the Central African Republic. We hope the extension of the arms embargo, asset freeze, and travel ban will keep necessary pressure on the armed groups that continue to undermine CAR’s …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on UN Cooperation with ASEAN

The United States’ and ASEAN’s deepening economic relationship has resulted in explosive growth and tangible, tangible benefits on both sides of the Pacific. U.S. collective investment in ASEAN Member States stands now at $271 billion dollars, and American businesses strengthen ASEAN communities where they operate.

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Libya

We join the UN in calling on countries to live up to their Berlin commitments and we demand that Member States comply with their obligations to implement the UN arms embargo. This entails an immediate and permanent halt of all deployments of personnel, fighters, and military equipment to Libya. We also call on Libyan parties …

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Remarks at a Press Availability on the Vision for Peace in the Middle East

Ambassador Kelly Craft Permanent Representative U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York January 30, 2020 AS DELIVERED QUESTION: [INAUDIBLE] AMBASSADOR CRAFT: You know, I’m not going to prejudge, because I, nothing’s happened as of yet, but I am open to conversation with the Palestinian PR. This is an opportunity, it’s a very …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Political Situation in Syria

The assault on Idlib that is underway represents the largest violation of Resolution 2254 to date, with humanitarian consequences that will prove both devastating and lasting. Attacks on the people of northwest Syria by forces of the Syrian regime, Russia, Iran, and Hizballah are unjustifiable, and will directly lead to life-threatening shortages of food, medicine, …

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Remarks at the UN Holocaust Memorial Museum Opening Exhibition

Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet Acting Deputy Permanent Representative U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York January 29, 2020 AS DELIVERED Good afternoon, everyone, and thank you for being here with us today. It is a great honor for all of us at the United States Mission to be co-hosting the opening of …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria

The United States offers its full support to the UN Board of Inquiry mandated to investigate attacks that have struck UN and UN-supported facilities in northwest Syria, for which the regime and Russia are overwhelmingly responsible. We will continue to support the Board of Inquiry in its work and encourage all member states to do …

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Remarks on the Agenda Item 110: Report of the SG on the work of the Organization in the Trusteeship Council Chamber

Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet Acting Deputy Permanent Representative U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York January 22, 2020 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. President, for convening this important briefing today. Mr. Secretary-General, thank you for clearly outlining your top priorities and challenges we face for 2020, and for your leadership and drive …

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Remarks at a Press Availability Following a UN Security Council Open Debate on the Middle East

You know, once again today, for decades of having the same meeting in the Security Council and everything on the Middle East and the challenges and, once again decades of this unrelentless criticism of Israel, and today I really called upon the Council to, let’s change this dialogue, let’s talk about what really does promote …

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Opening Remarks at a UN General Assembly Meeting for the UN Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations

Courtney Nemroff Acting U.S. Representative to ECOSOC New York, New York January 20, 2020 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair. We welcome our fellow Committee members, states that are non-members of the Committee, and civil society representatives to this regular session. The United States reiterates its call on NGO Committee members to recommit ourselves to …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on the Middle East

I have said before that Israel has no better friend than the United States, and will I say it again today. Whether it is reminding the world of what Israel has done to make the substantive contributions to global peace and prosperity, or of what Iran is doing to frustrate efforts towards peace. President Donald …

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Remarks at an Arria-Formula Meeting on Syria Chemical Weapons

The United States categorically objects to Russia’s blatant attempt to use a Security Council meeting to weaken the credibility of the OPCW and its findings on the Douma attack. This is a brazen disinformation campaign, waged in advance of the anticipated release of the OPCW Investigation and Identification Team’s first report.

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Remarks for the United Nations Security Council Briefing on Yemen

We call on the Houthi authorities to reduce the significant and detrimental impediments to the delivery of humanitarian assistance. This includes the lifting of access restrictions and the elimination of illegitimate levies on aid projects, both of which heavily delay the delivery of essential assistance and place an undue burden on humanitarian partners attempting to …

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Remarks on the Situation in Mali and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA)

This Council though has spent years asking the signatories to make meaningful progress toward implementing the Agreement, even providing them with achievable benchmarks. Despite our robust support, we continue to witness inaction and a deteriorating security environment. And so, it is time for this Council to begin developing an alternative approach to address growing instability …

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Remarks at a General Assembly Plenary Meeting on Agenda Item 123: Strengthening the UN System

My delegation wishes to express our deep concern regarding the action of the G-77 and China to table this resolution in this forum, ignoring the clear prerogative of the Fifth Committee and without any attempt to reach consensus. This action demonstrates bad faith on the part of the penholders and sets the precedent that any …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Press Stakeout on Syrian Humanitarian Cross-Border Mandate Renewal

I want to very clear about who must bear responsibility for this outcome.  It is the Russian Federation that brought us to this point.  It is the Russian Federation that vetoed a compromise proposal on December 20th, and has since worked tirelessly to divide the Council.  The only reasonable conclusion to draw from these actions …

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Explanation of Vote on the UN Security Council Resolution on the Syria Humanitarian Cross-Border Mandate Renewal

In truth, we do not find ourselves in this situation because the conditions on the ground no longer allow for aid delivery; as we have heard over and over again from the UN officials, the existing cross-border aid mechanism is working. Nor are we here because of lack of willingness among the other Council members …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel

Ambassador Cherith Norman Acting Deputy Permanent Representative U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York January 8, 2020 AS DELIVERED Thank you Mr. President. At the outset, I’d like to join colleagues in welcoming you and the other incoming Council members to the chamber—the new members. And to extend our congratulations to you …

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Media Note: Attack on U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, Iraq

UNITED STATES MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS OFFICE OF PRESS AND PUBLIC DIPLOMACY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 6, 2020 We appreciate the 27 United Nations Member States that spoke out against the December 31 Iran-orchestrated attack on the U.S. embassy in Baghdad. They clearly recognize the importance of a host country’s obligations under the 1961 …

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Statement in Explanation of Vote on the Syria Accountability Mechanism – UNGA 74 Main Session of the Fifth Committee

Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet Acting Deputy Permanent Representative U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York December 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The General Assembly, in resolution 71/248, established the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism in Syria to help provide prosecutors and investigators with the evidence needed to make the …

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Closing Statement – UNGA 74 Main Session of the Fifth Committee

Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet Acting Deputy Permanent Representative U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York December 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you Mr. Chairman. I want to thank you for your leadership in guiding us to a good conclusion this session. It wasn’t easy, but your steady and wise hand kept us …

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Explanation of Vote on the UN Security Council Resolution on the Syria Humanitarian Cross-Border Mandate Renewal

The United States of America voted against the draft resolution authored by the Russian Federation today because it mocks our values and principles; it defies the recommendation of the Secretary-General, OCHA, international NGOs; and, most importantly, it has from the start been a disingenuous attempt to keep this life-saving mechanism functioning for Syrian civilians.

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Explanation of Vote on Security Council Resolution 2449

The consequences of the Russian Federation and China’s vetoes of this Security Council resolution will be disastrous. This decision is reckless, irresponsible and cruel. Right now, in Syria, four million people depend on the UN’s cross-border assistance mechanism for medicine, shelter, and food. There is no justification imaginable for any member of this Security Council …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Middle East (Syria)

Due to Special Envoy Pedersen’s determination, the willingness of the Syrian parties to step forward, and support from the international community, especially the Small Group, Turkey, and Russia, we witnessed a notable political breakthrough after almost two years of negotiations. After the successful October launch of the Constitutional Committee, the United States – and many …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Iran, Resolution 2231

We appreciate the Secretary-General’s detailed report on the September 14 attacks on Saudi Aramco oil facilities. As we have said numerous times, Iran is responsible for these attacks. The United Kingdom, France, and Germany have joined us in that assessment. There is simply no other plausible explanation. Only Iran could have carried out an attack …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria

The United States rises alongside the Secretary-General; OCHA; the millions of Syrians who depend on this resolution; and UN implementors to demand the renewal of the resolution’s provisions for all existing crossings. As we set our intentions for the new year, we do see several achievable steps this Council can take to demonstrate our commitment …

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Explanation of Vote after the Adoption of the UNDOF Mandate

The United States believes UNDOF continues to have a vital role to play in preserving stability between Israel and Syria. We respect and recognize the Mission’s impartiality. This Council should be under no illusion however, that there is any equivalence between the noted violations on the Israeli and Syrian sides.

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Explanation of Vote after the Adoption of the MONUSCO Mandate

The United States fully supports this revised mandate, which should improve the Mission’s performance, consistent with the request of the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo that the Mission become leaner, better equipped, and better trained with a stronger Protection of Civilians mandate.

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Media Note: Decriminalizing Sexual Orientation

UNITED STATES MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS OFFICE OF PRESS AND PUBLIC DIPLOMACY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 19, 2019 Yesterday U.S. Ambassador to the UN Kelly Craft, joined by U.S. Ambassador to Germany Ric Grenell, hosted the side event: “Decriminalizing Homosexuality in Solidarity with LGBTQ People” at the United Nations. At the event, panelists discussed …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Sudan

We’ve been encouraged by concrete steps parties in Sudan have taken to build a more stable, secure, and human rights-respecting future. The formation of the CLTG this summer, the signing of the Juba Declaration in September, and ongoing negotiations between the government and armed opposition forces have increased the prospects for an enduring peace across …

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Press Release: USUN Panel Discussion on Trafficking in Persons

UNITED STATES MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS OFFICE OF PRESS AND PUBLIC DIPLOMACY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 17, 2019 Ambassador [Cherith Norman Chalet], U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, hosted a panel discussion today on trafficking in persons to illustrate the importance of documentation as a tool for combatting modern slavery. She reaffirmed the …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in South Sudan

The United States and the international community are losing confidence that South Sudan’s leaders have the will to guide their country to genuine peace and security. We are losing confidence that they share the best interests of their people, who are calling for peace amid a devastating, conflict-induced humanitarian crisis. This Council visited Juba to …

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United States Statement: Annual Discussion on International Year of Indigenous Languages

Jason Mack Counselor U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York December 17, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair. And thank you to all of the civil society speakers, including representatives of the native Hawaiian and Cherokee Nation Communities. The United States recognizes that validating, revitalizing, and sustaining indigenous languages strengthens indigenous …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA)

The United States remains deeply committed to Afghanistan. As Afghanistan continues its process of auditing votes to ensure the credible outcome of the presidential election, we call for the continued support of the electoral bodies, and we continue to call on all Afghan candidates to engage with the audit process, file any complaints through legal …

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United States Statement: UN General Assembly Humanitarian Debate

Courtney R. Nemroff Acting U.S. Representative to the Economic and Social Affairs Council U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York December 16, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. President. Two weeks ago, the United Nations released the Global Humanitarian Overview for 2020. It paints a sobering picture of the challenges and human …

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Explanation of Position on Resolutions under Agenda Item 15 “Culture of Peace”

Theodore Ho Advisor U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York December 12, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you Madam President, Distinguished Facilitators of the Resolution, Esteemed Colleagues and Delegates, The United States strongly believes in encouraging a culture of peace through the promotion of justice, democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms, as well …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Nonproliferation and the DPRK

The United States and the Security Council have a goal – not a deadline. We have outlined this goal, in detail, in a series of unanimously adopted Security Council resolutions. We want to use this timely briefing to make crystal clear to the DPRK that its continued ballistic missile testing is deeply counterproductive to the …

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United States Explanation of Position on Agenda Item 126: Global Health and Foreign Policy

Courtney R. Nemroff Acting U.S. Representative to the Economic and Social Affairs Council U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York December 11, 2019 AS DELIVERED The United States takes the floor to speak to the Global Health and Foreign Policy resolution and its theme this year of “An inclusive approach to strengthening …

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Statement at a Joint Debate on Agenda Items 74(a) and (b) on Oceans and the Law of the Sea

Emily Pierce Counselor for Legal Affairs U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York December 10, 2019 AS DELIVERED President, Distinguished Delegates, My delegation is pleased to co-sponsor the General Assembly resolution on oceans and the law of the sea. The United States underscores the central importance of international law as reflected in …

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Statement for the International Day of Victims of Genocide

Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet Acting U.S. Deputy Representative to the United Nations U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York December 9, 2019 AS DELIVERED The United States pays tribute to victims of genocide and is pleased to participate in today’s commemoration to ensure we end these and future atrocities. We recognize the …

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Remarks at a High-Level Event on Improving Peacekeeping Performance: One Year since UNSCR 2436

That’s what today is all about: accountability. And Resolution 2436 calls for the accountability we need: clear, objective performance standards for all UN peacekeeping personnel; measures to address underperformance; incentives and recognition for outstanding performance; improved reporting on performance; and deployment decisions based on performance data.

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Remarks by Ambassador Kelly Craft at a UN Press Conference on the U.S. Program of Work for the December Security Council Presidency

This morning I’m going to walk us through a number of key elements of this month’s Program of Work as well as the events that are occurring outside the Council during the month of December. And I hope after this briefing, you’ll have a clearer sense as to what we’ll be addressing this month, and …

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Statement on the Political Declaration of the Midterm Review on the Implementation of the Vienna Programme of Action for Landlocked Developing…

Rebecca Wallace Senior Economic Advisor U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York December 5, 2019 AS DELIVERED Excellencies, distinguished delegates, it is an honor to be here today to review the progress made since the adoption of the Vienna Program of Action for Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC). On behalf of the United …

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Media Advisory: Ambassador Craft to Hold Press Conference to Preview U.S. Security Council Presidency

Ambassador Kelly Craft, the U.S. Representative to the United Nations, will hold a press conference at the United Nations on Friday, December 6, 2019. Ambassador Craft will outline the program of work for the U.S. presidency of the UN Security Council in December, highlighting U.S. priorities for the month.

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Statement at a Peacebuilding Commission Session on the Sahel, Lake Chad Basin, and Manu River Union

Courtney R. Nemroff Acting U.S. Representative to the United Nations Economic and Social Council U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York December 4, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair, and thank you to the briefers. We are pleased the Peacebuilding Commission is taking up this important issue today. We agree that …

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Explanation of vote on the General Assembly Palestinian Resolutions

Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet Acting U.S. Deputy Representative to the United Nations U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York December 3, 2019 AS DELIVERED The United States once again, opposed the five resolutions voted upon today, which are entirely biased against Israel. These are in addition to the ten other resolutions in …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Press Stakeout following the Adoption of the December Program of Work

My theme will be a credible Council and I think it’s really important to expound upon Ambassador Pierce’s presidency the month of November that she really held people accountable for their engagement, their remarks, because you know even though we are speaking to one another in the open chamber we are speaking to the world. …

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Press Release: Statement by Ambassador Kelly Craft

On World AIDS Day, the U.S. Mission to the United Nations joins the international community in support of those living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Today, we honor those who have lost their lives to AIDS. We celebrate the progress we have made together in countering this disease. And we …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 22d “Eradicating rural poverty to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”

Emma Locatelli Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED Madame chair, The United States agrees entirely with the statement and recommendations provided by the European Union and others. We too are disappointed with the outcome of this resolution and the approach that led us to this …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 22b “Women in Development”

Danielle Maniscalco Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED The United States is committed to advancing the status of women and promoting their role as agents of transformation in the economic development of their countries, and therefore the world. The United States joins consensus on the …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 20a “Role of the United Nations in promoting development in the context of globalization and interdependence

Emma Locatelli Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED The United States regrets that we cannot join consensus on this text and would like to highlight our concerns. With regard to this resolution’s references to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item “Sustainable Mountain Development”

Emma Locatelli Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York City November 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED Madame Chair, The United States refers you to our remarks delivered on November 7, 2019 in the Third Committee and November 21, 2019, in the Second Committee regarding our positions with respect to the t2030 Agenda, the Addis …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 19h “Education for Sustainable Development”

Emma Locatelli Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York City November 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair, We are pleased to join consensus on this “Education for Sustainable Development” resolution. The United States is firmly committed to providing equal access to quality education. We note that States have a wide array …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 19f “Implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity and its contribution to sustainable…&#82

Emma Locatelli Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED Good afternoon and thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States is pleased to join consensus on the resolution: Implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity and its contribution to sustainable development. We would like to clarify several …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 19e “Implementation of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification in Those Countries Experiencing Serious..

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States is pleased to join consensus on the resolution: Implementation of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification in Those Countries Experiencing Serious Drought and/or Desertification, Particularly in Africa. We would …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 19d “Protection of global climate for present and future generations of humankind”

Courtney R. Nemroff Acting U.S. Representative for Economic and Social Affairs U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED The United States is disappointed by the inclusion of language in paragraph 9, which promotes the domestic political priorities of a single Member State. Regrettably, such language detracts and …

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Second Committee Statement on the Implementation of Agenda 21 and the outcomes of the World Summit on Sustainable Development and of the UN…

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED Mr. Chair, The United States supports the achievement of sustainable development, and we maintain that Second Committee should make meaningful contributions to global development priorities. The Agenda 21 resolution advances neither goal. We could better spend our …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 19 “Strengthening cooperation for integrated coastal zone management for achieving sustainable development”

Kathryn Bacher Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair. While we recognize the importance of integrated coastal zone management to some countries, the subject does not warrant a biennial resolution in an already over-burdened Second Committee agenda. The issue is better considered …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 18 “Follow-up to and Implementation of the Outcomes of the International Conferences on Financing…&#82

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair, We would like to thank the facilitator for their leadership on this resolution. We are pleased to join consensus on it today. We refer you to our remarks delivered on November 21 regarding …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 17f “Promotion of international cooperation to combat illicit financial flows & strengthen good practice

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair We refer you to our remarks delivered on November 21 regarding our positions with respect to illicit financial flows, the 2030 Agenda and Leave No Country Behind. The United States firmly believes that …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 17 “Promoting investments for sustainable development”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 27, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair. On behalf of the United States, we are pleased to join consensus on this resolution. However, we take this opportunity to make important points of clarification on some of the language contained therein. …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 21 (b) “Follow-up to the second United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED The United States is pleased to join consensus on the resolution on the Follow-up to the Second UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries. We wish to make several clarifying points on the final text. Regarding the reference …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 19 (g) “Report of the United Nations Environment Assembly of the United Nations Environment Programme”

Courtney R. Nemroff Acting U.S. Representative to the Economic and Social Council U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED In joining consensus on this resolution, we reiterate the position of the United States, delivered on November 21, 2019, with respect to references to the 2030 Agenda for …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 19 “International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste”

Daniel Fogarty Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED We are pleased to join consensus on this resolution and refer you to our remarks delivered on November 21 regarding our position with respect to the 2030 Agenda. ###

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 17 (a) “International Trade and Development”

David Messenger Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED Mr. Chairperson, the United States has had to vote against this resolution now for the third year in a row because of problematic language we have previously highlighted that remains in this year’s resolution. The United States …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 19 (i) “Harmony with Nature”

David Dreilinger Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED While we strongly support sustainable development and environmental protection and recognize that the concept of Harmony with Nature is important to several Member States, we also note that this resolution changes little from year-to-year and its function …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 19 (k) “Combatting Sand and Dust Storms”

Dina Schorr Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York City November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. The United States would like to raise our concerns with the workload of this committee. I think many of us have noticed in this year, where we have resolutions – more than ever before, …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 19 (b) “Follow-up to and implementation of the SAMOA Pathway”

Jesse Walter Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED On behalf of the U.S. government, I would like to extend our thanks to the co-facilitators from Cabo Verde and Trinidad and Tobago. Their leadership and collegiality resulted in a resolution that addresses the very important issues …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 17 (e) “Financial Inclusion for Sustainable Development”

Jesse Walter Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED On behalf of the U.S. Government, I would like to extend our thanks to the facilitator for his successful shepherding of the biannual review of the resolution on Financial Inclusion for Sustainable Development. The United States appreciated …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 10 “Agricultural technology for sustainable development”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED We wish to thank the facilitators for their flexibility and constructive approach in negotiating this resolution. We are pleased to vote in favor of this resolution and refer you to our remarks delivered on November 21 regarding …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 19 “Sustainable tourism and sustainable development in Central America”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED We are pleased to join consensus on this resolution. We refer you to our remarks delivered on November 21 regarding our position with respect to the 2030 Agenda, Addis Ababa Action Agenda, technology transfer, and the Paris …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 17 (d) “Commodities”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Chair. We regret that we cannot join consensus and would like to highlight our concerns with this text. As in previous years, we must express our concerns over portions of this resolution which make obsolete …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 17 (c) “External Debt Sustainability and Development”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Chair. While we are joining consensus on this resolution, we take this opportunity again to clarify important points, in the hope that the Second Committee can do better the next time this item is on …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 17 (b) “International Financial System and Development”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED Mr. Chairperson, the United States is disappointed to see there has not been sufficient change in this resolution this year, and we must therefore vote against it for the third year in a row. A significant number …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 16 “Information and communication technologies for sustainable development”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED The United States is pleased to join consensus on this resolution. We refer you to our remarks delivered on November 21 regarding our position with respect to the 2030 Agenda, Addis Ababa Action Agenda, and technology transfers. …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the UN Investigative Team for Accountability of Da’esh/ISIL (UNITAD)

it is our solemn responsibility to speak the truth about what ISIS did, to document this truth, and to answer the prayer for justice for those whose lives have been turned upside down by ISIS. This is what makes UNITAD’s work so important. With the support of the Iraqi government, UNITAD is moving quickly, carefully, …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 20 (b) “Science, technology and innovation for sustainable development”

Daniel Fogarty Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED We are pleased to join consensus on this resolution and refer you to our remarks delivered on November 21, 2019 regarding our positions with respect to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 24 “Agriculture development, food security, and nutrition”

Emma Locatelli Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED Mr. Chairperson, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Australian delegation for their leadership, creativity, and collegiality in facilitating this resolution.  The United States, as the single largest bilateral donor to programs to reduce …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 22 (a) “Implementation of the Third United Nations Decade for the Eradication of Poverty”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair.  The United States would like to thank the facilitator for their leadership on this resolution.  We are pleased to join consensus on this resolution, however we would like to make several points on …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 20 (d) “Development cooperation with middle-income countries”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States would like to thank the facilitator for their leadership on this resolution.  We are pleased to join consensus on it. We refer you to our remarks delivered on November 21 …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 19 (j) “Ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States is pleased to join consensus on the resolution: Ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.  We refer you to our remarks delivered on November 21 regarding …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 24 “International Tea Day”

Dina Schorr Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Chair. During these negotiations, we have been clear about our issues regarding this text.  However, regretfully the United States cannot join consensus on this text due to language contained in preambular paragraph 4, which elevates …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 23 (b) “South-South Cooperation”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED The United States is pleased to join consensus on this resolution, and we refer you to our remarks delivered on November 21 regarding our positions with respect to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Addis Ababa …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 23 (a) “Operational activities for development of the UN system”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED We are pleased to join consensus on this resolution and refer you to our remarks delivered on delivered on November 21 regarding our position with respect to the 2030 Agenda, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, the Paris …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 22 (c) “Human Resources Development”

Emma Locatelli Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED Mr. Chairperson, On behalf of the United States, I would like to extend our thanks to the facilitator for his successful shepherding of this resolution on Eradication of Poverty and Other Development Issues: Human Resources Development.  The …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 21 (a) “Follow-up to the Fourth United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries”

Jason Lawrence Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED On behalf of the United States, I would like to extend our thanks to the facilitator for the successful shepherding of this resolution on the Follow-up to the Fourth UN Conference on the Least Developed Countries.  The …

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Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 20 (c) “Culture and Sustainable Development”

Daniel Fogarty Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 26, 2019 AS DELIVERED The United States believes strongly that the protection of cultural heritage in countries of origin promotes regional stability and good governance.  We also understand the importance of cultural heritage to sustainable development and well-being among indigenous peoples.  …

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Statement on Agenda Item 137: Strategic Heritage Plan Main Session of the Fifth Committee, 74th General Assembly

Cherith Norman Chalet Ambassador for UN Management and Reform U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 25, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States appreciates the Secretary General’s update on the Strategic Heritage Plan (SHP) and the significant work done over the last year. Transparency and good governance …

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Remarks for a UN General Assembly Plenary Meeting on UN Security Council Reform

As we’ve previously stated, the United States remains open, in principle, to modest expansion of the Security Council for both permanent and non-permanent members. We believe this must be pursued in a way that will not diminish the Security Council’s effectiveness nor its efficiency, and that will not alter or expand the veto.

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Statement on ‘Unilateral economic measures as a means of political & economic coercion against developing countries’

Courtney R. Nemroff Acting U.S. Representative to the Economic and Social Council U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 21, 2019 AS DELIVERED Mr. Chairperson, as we’ve noted in prior years where this resolution was considered, the United States believes that each member state has the sovereign right to determine how …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Syria

James F. Jeffrey Special Representative for Syria Engagement and Special Envoy to the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 22, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Madam President. Ms. Al-Halak, that was a very commendable and very moving presentation of the problems to the civilians and …

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Statement on the 30th Anniversary Commemoration of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

Ambassador Elisabeth Millard U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 21, 2019 AS DELIVERED The United States is proud to participate in today’s Commemoration for this milestone in promoting and protecting the human rights of all children. As we stated at the Convention’s adoption 30 years ago, the United States continues …

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Statement on the UN Peacebuilding Commission’s Launch of the 2020 Review of the Peacebuilding Architecture

Courtney R. Nemroff Acting U.S. Representative to the United Nations Economic and Social Council U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 22, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair, for gathering us here today for the launch of the informal phase of the 2020 review of the peacebuilding architecture. I also …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Somalia

Michael Barkin Senior Policy Advisor U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 21, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Madam President, and thank you to our briefers for joining us today. We’d like to add our condolences for the tragic death and urge justice and security for all of Somalia Civil Society …

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United States Second Committee Global Explanation of Position

Courtney R. Nemroff Acting U.S. Representative to the Economic and Social Council U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 21, 2019 AS DELIVERED On behalf of the U.S. government, I would like to extend our thanks to Senegal as chair of this Second Committee session. I take this opportunity to clarify …

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Statement on Agenda Item 24- ‘Natural Plant Fibers and Sustainable Development’

Courtney R. Nemroff Acting U.S. Representative to the Economic and Social Council U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 21, 2019 AS DELIVERED We congratulate Bangladesh on this new resolution, and for your skill-full and stalwart facilitation to bring us to consensus today on this exciting new text. Thank you so …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Peace and Security in Africa

The G5 Sahel states must make progress toward effective governance, respect for human rights, accountability, and inclusiveness, including the meaningful participation of women, youth, and marginalized groups. Our collective efforts to stabilize the region depend on this progress – and our combined endeavors can achieve durable peace and stability and unleash the potential of this …

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Media Note: Readout of Ambassador Kelly Craft’s Trip to Bogota and Cucuta, Colombia from November 16-20

UNITED STATES MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS OFFICE OF PRESS AND PUBLIC DIPLOMACY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 20, 2019 United States Ambassador to the United Nations (USUN) Kelly Craft traveled to Bogota and Cucuta, Colombia, November 16-20. Ambassador Craft reaffirmed our strong bilateral partnership with Colombia and expressed the United States’ deep appreciation for President …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the Middle East

The United States remains committed to the cause of peace, and Monday’s announcement does not alter this fact. We continue to believe that discussion between the Parties is the path to finding a solution that works for both sides and promotes and protects the welfare of Palestinians and Israelis alike. But just as we are …

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Media Advisory: Ambassador Kelly Craft Travels to Haiti

UNITED STATES MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS OFFICE OF PRESS AND PUBLIC DIPLOMACY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 19, 2019 Ambassador Kelly Craft, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, will travel to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on November 20, 2019 to underscore U.S. support for a more peaceful, secure, prosperous, and democratic future for the Haitian people. …

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Statement on Agenda Item 25 (b), ‘Policies and Programmes Involving Youth.’

Courtney R. Nemroff Acting U.S. Representative to the Economic and Social Council U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 19, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair. We thank Cape Verde, Kazakhstan, and Portugal for introducing their resolution on Youth. The United States joins consensus on the resolution. With regard to …

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Statement on Agenda Item 70 (b) ‘Strengthening the role of the UN in enhancing periodic and genuine elections and the promotion of democratization’

Courtney R. Nemroff Acting U.S. Representative to the Economic and Social Council U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 19, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Chairperson. The United States is pleased to introduce this resolution on strengthening the role of the United Nations in enhancing periodic and genuine elections and the …

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Statement on Agenda Item 70 (b) ‘Protection of and assistance to internally displaced persons’

Mordica Simpson Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 19, 2019 AS DELIVERED The United States is pleased to cosponsor this resolution on “Protection of and assistance to internally displaced persons.” Our co-sponsorship reflects our deep concern about the plight of the more than 40 million persons internally displaced across …

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Statement on Agenda Item 70 (b) ‘The safety of journalists and the issue of impunity’

Mordica Simpson Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 19, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Chairperson. The United States thanks Greece, Argentina, Austria, Costa Rica, France, and Tunisia for introducing a strong resolution that emphasizes the importance of this issue, and the need to combat impunity. We share the commitment …

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Statement on Agenda Item 70 (b) ‘National Human Rights Institutions’

Mordica Simpson Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 19, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Chairperson. The United States thanks Germany for introducing this resolution that emphasizes the important role that such national institutions play and will continue to play in promoting and protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms. The …

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Statement on Agenda Item 70 (b) ‘Human Rights Defenders’

Mordica Simpson Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 19, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Chairperson. The United States is proud to again co-sponsor this important resolution recognizing the vital role of human rights defenders and the need for their protection. We sincerely thank the main sponsor, Norway, for its …

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Statement on Agenda Item 69 ‘Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination’

Mordica Simpson Adviser U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 19, 2019 AS DELIVERED The United States recognizes the importance of the right of self-determination of peoples and therefore joins consensus on this resolution. We note, however, as frequently stated by the United States and other delegations, that this resolution contains …

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Statement on Agenda Item 68 (b) ‘Follow-up to the Durban Declaration’

Jason Mack Counselor U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 19, 2019 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States remains firmly committed to combatting racism and racial discrimination. Indeed, we recognize a special obligation to do so given historical injustices perpetrated during past eras of colonial expansion into indigenous …

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