Ministry Statements & Speeches:
Madam President,
It is to New Zealand’s deep disappointment that we meet again to discuss the use of the veto.
New Zealand is a long-standing opponent of the veto.
We are a strong supporter of Resolution 76/262, and are disappointed that it has been triggered so frequently.
The Security Council’s legitimacy lies in its ability to fulfill its responsibility under the UN Charter to maintain international peace and security and to address issues of pressing concern to Member States.
When a resolution is blocked through the use of the veto, the Council is deprived of that ability and its effectiveness and credibility are undermined.
In this instance, two permanent members have prevented the Council supporting an effort to ensure safe and secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
The closure of the Strait is deeply damaging, not only to supply chains, but energy markets and food security, and is causing suffering around the world, especially among the world’s most vulnerable.
The resolution in question also contained important affirmations of navigational rights and freedoms. These are cornerstones of global security and prosperity that benefit every country.
New Zealand was pleased to co-sponsor Resolution 2817 last month – as one of a record number of Member States – which reaffirmed the important concepts of freedom of navigation and maritime security. We welcome the continued efforts by Bahrain and the international community to restore safe passage to the Strait of Hormuz.
As reaffirmed in Resolution 2817, and by the International Maritime Organisation Council, the exercise of navigational rights and freedoms by merchant and commercial vessels, in accordance with international law, must be respected.
We were therefore disappointed that the Council could not adopt the resolution last week.
We particularly regret that in this instance, the two permanent members which exercised the veto did so despite extensive efforts by the resolution’s proponents to revise the text to accommodate the concerns of Member States.
New Zealand strongly reiterates the importance of ensuring that all ships and aircraft can exercise their right of transit passage through the Strait of Hormuz without interference, in accordance with international law as reflected in UNCLOS.
New Zealand remains deeply concerned about this conflict. Civilians and the global economy are being directly affected. It is critical that all parties uphold their commitment to the ceasefire and work to find an urgent diplomatic solution.
Thank you.