Statement by Ambassador Amar Bendjama at UNSC on the situation in Ukraine
Mr. President,
I thank Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo and Director Edem Wosornu for their briefings.
Algeria is concerned about the continued deterioration of the humanitarian situation resulting from the ongoing military activities in Russia and Ukraine, impacting heavily and tragically civilian populations, with its consequences that are felt both regionally and globally.
The loss of civilian lives, the suffering of refugees and internally displaced persons, and the destruction of civilian infrastructures including residential areas, hospitals, universities, energy and transport networks, both in Ukraine and in Russia, are still a source of deep concern.
At the same time, the situation on the ground remains also an issue of great concern as attacks keep occurring both in Ukraine and Russia and tensions did, unfortunately, not decrease.
Against this backdrop, Algeria is convinced of the urgency of addressing the following elements:
First, it is of utmost importance to intensify diplomatic efforts to put an end to the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine without discrimination in treating human suffering. It is also imperative that all parties de-escalate hostilities, prioritize civilian protection, and fully comply with the UN Carter and International Law, including International Humanitarian Law.
Second, it is also urgent and critical to abandon the logic of confrontation and to exercise restraint while creating the conditions for inclusive and constructive dialogue and negotiations guided by the principle of peaceful settlement of disputes.
It is in this context that Algeria engaged, in good faith, an effort of good offices, within the framework of the Arab Contact Group which met, at an early stage of the conflict, the two parties calling the international community to refrain from any action likely to hinder the negotiations and prolong the crisis. Algeria remains committed to support any peace effort aiming at creating conducive environment to a steady and peaceful solution of this dispute.
Third, Algeria is deeply concerned about the exacerbation of the phenomenon of polarization which contributes to the prolongation of the crisis and the risk of escalation with its repercussions on international peace and security, as well as economic and social consequences, including in terms of food and energy security.
Even though the situation is challenging, Algeria still believes that peace is not out of reach. Efforts towards a peaceful settlement that have been unfortunately unsuccessful so far need to make their way forward.
Algeria calls for the intensification of international diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving this crisis to avoid the collapse of diplomatic norms and to achieve a just and lasting peace, based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the legitimate security concerns of all parties.
I thank you.