Statement by the Micronesian delegation New York, 23 March 2022
Mr. President,
I like to first express the sincere sympathies condolences to the government and people of the United States on the passing of Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright; and to the Irish Mission on the loss of their DPR, Mr. Jim Kelly.
I align this statement with the statement delivered this morning by the distinguished representative of Fiji on behalf of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF). In my national capacity, I would like to add a few points.
Three weeks ago, the Eleventh Emergency Special Session of the General Assembly adopted a resolution on the Aggression against Ukraine. Since then, the war has intensified, casualties have risen and the humanitarian situation in Ukraine has taken a turn for the worse; indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure are being intensified by the Russian Federation.
The despair caused by Russia’s invasion of the sovereign territory of Ukraine is illegal. The indiscriminate nature of its military attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure has shocked us all. Already, over ten million people have been displaced with over 3 million fleeing the country for safety. We express our appreciation to Ukraine’s neighbors who have stepped up to help the most vulnerable, and who provide them with food, shelter, and safety.
But even more, needs to be done. After several rounds of negotiations, the suffering of the population continues. Humanitarian corridors are essential to allow for aid to reach those most in need and to facilitate the departure of innocent civilians from hostilities but their agreed terms are repeatedly violated by the aggressor.
Mr. President,
Today we are pleased to consider a draft resolution by France and Mexico entitled, “Humanitarian consequences of the aggression against Ukraine”. It is clear to the root cause of the conflict and to who is responsible. We appreciate that it calls for ensuring the protection of all civilians, including third-country nationals seeking to flee Ukraine without discrimination based on race, nationality, or religion. It also condemns any acts of racism or xenophobia committed against those fleeing Ukraine.
The resolution further calls to ensure sufficient humanitarian funding to enable a robust UN humanitarian response. Micronesia wishes to demonstrate its appreciation and support for the initiative, and therefore, will consider how best to contribute. To the government and people of Ukraine, Micronesia continues to stand in solidarity with your people.
We believe that the international community should rally behind the draft by France and Mexico as it is focused on pressing humanitarian objectives and needs, the fulfillment of which may make the difference between life and death for many brave Ukrainians. The proposed resolution is a timely one, and its adoption by this body would not only be an act deeply appreciated as a humanitarian gesture, but also an encouraging sign of the broader resolve of this Body and its members. For these reasons, Mr. President, my delegation joins all cosponsors of the draft resolution contained in A/ESS-11/L.2 and calls for its adoption.
I thank you!
