Ladies and Gentlemen,

Thank you very much for your presence.

It is good to see all of you again. I hope you managed to get some time away. But as you know, our world has been far from quiet. 

There is much anxiety around the globe. In particular, tensions related to the Korean peninsula are at levels not seen in decades.

We remember the enormous suffering caused by the Korean War that began 67 years ago. More than three million people were killed – with a civilian death rate higher than World War II. The Korean peninsula was left in ruins. Many nations were directly engaged and experienced heavy losses. 

We need to heed the lessons of history – not to repeat the mistakes. 

The Security Council was united in adopting resolution 2371 on 5 August. 

This resolution sends an unambiguous message regarding the peace and security obligations of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. 

It is obviously my role as UN Secretary-General to support the comprehensive implementation of Security Council resolutions, namely this last one. I call on all Member States to fully fulfill their related obligations.

But all concerned parties should also recognize that the unified adoption of resolution 2371 represents an opportunity for diplomatic engagement and renewed dialogue to solve this crisis. 

There are many possible avenues for this dialogue – from various bilateral formations to the 6-party talks. 

As tensions rise, so does the risk of misunderstanding, miscalculation or escalation. 

That is why it is so important to dial down rhetoric and to dial up diplomacy. 

For my part, I want to repeat that my good offices are always available – and I conveyed this message yesterday to the representatives of the 6-party talks. 

I will remain in close contact with all concerned parties and stand ready to assist in any way.

Consistent with resolution 2371, through words and actions, the international community must send a clear, coherent message to the leadership of the DPRK: fully comply with international obligations, work towards reopening communication channels and support efforts to deescalate the situation. 

I welcome the continued critical engagement by Member States and support the call of the Republic of Korea to the DPRK to engage in a credible and meaningful dialogue. 

This includes through confidence-building measures to defuse tension and to enable steps aimed at the de-nuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

The solution to this crisis must be political. The potential consequences of military action are too horrific to even contemplate.

Thank you. I am available for a few questions.