PRESS BRIEFING
BY MONICA GRAYLEY,
SPOKESPERSON FOR GENERAL ASSEMBLY
PRESIDENT DENNIS FRANCIS
United Nations Headquarters, New York
4 March 2024
Good afternoon, everyone!
GA HOLDS DEBATE ON USE OF VETO, SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST
The President of the General Assembly, Mr. Dennis Francis, opened the plenary debate this morning on the Use of the Veto of the Security Council, cast on 20 February, under the agenda item “The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.”
In his remarks, the PGA highlighted “Member States’ responsibility to exert every effort to avert further violence and to save lives.”
Mr. Francis described the situation in Gaza as “catastrophic”, and recalled that since 7 October, over 30,000 people have lost their lives.
He reiterated his appeal for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and for the end of the bombardment.
The PGA also asked for all parties to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians and civilian facilities.
Mr. Francis then appealed for all hostages to be immediately and unconditionally released, as well as for full and unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance for all in need.
There were 75 speakers inscribed to deliver remarks.
Statements will continue during the 60th plenary meeting tomorrow, 5 March, at 10 a.m.
As usual, the Office of the PGA’s will share a summary with the President of the Security Council and the entire UN membership, as an outcome of the deliberations.
PGA TO CHAIR INFORMAL MEETING FOR BRIEFING ON UNRWA
This afternoon, President Dennis Francis will return to the GA Hall to chair the informal meeting of the plenary to hear a briefing on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, UNRWA.
There is no list of preestablished speakers for this afternoon.
After the PGA delivers remarks, he will be followed by the Commissioner-General who will also be seated on the podium.
Mr. Lazzarini will take the floor again at the end of the meeting to address questions, if needed.
Individual statements are limited to 3 minutes and 5 minutes for statements made on behalf of groups. As usual, remarks on behalf of groups are delivered first.
The meeting will conclude at 6 p.m. and will be webcast by UNTV.
This is everything we have for today. Do you have any questions?
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