– As delivered –

Statement by H.E. Mr. Volkan Bozkir, President of the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly

23 February 2021

Distinguished delegates,

Dear colleagues,

75 years ago, the United Nations was founded, to “save succeeding generations from the scourge of war.”

We all pledged, to strive for peace and security. We all pledged, to adhere to the values and principles of international law, as stated in the Charter of the United Nations.

As signatories to the Charter, and members of this United Nations, we have a responsibility, to refrain from the threat, or use of force, against the territorial integrity, or political independence, of any state, as provided in the UN Charter. Member States, are under obligation, to respect each other’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, freedom and political independence.

I welcome the ceasefire, that came into force in Ukraine in July last year, and urge all parties to continue to respect, and uphold the agreement. And I strongly urge all parties, to pursue a peaceful resolution of the conflict, on the basis of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, through direct political dialogue, and other peaceful mechanisms.

As we all work to address the challenges, arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, I would also like to echo herewith, the call, by the UN Secretary-General for a global ceasefire.

Thank you.