A3+ EXPLANATION OF VOTE BY H.E. AMBASSADOR PEDRO COMISSÁRIO REPRESENTATIVE OF THE REPUBLIC OF MOZAMBIQUE
Madam President,
I have the honour to deliver this explanation of vote on behalf of the A3+, namely Algeria, Guyana, Sierra Leone and my own country, Mozambique.
The A3+ expresses its appreciation to the penholder, the United States, for their efforts aimed at producing a balanced text, and address the main concerns raised during negotiations.
It is, however, our belief that additional effort could have been made in order to fully reconcile the positions of Council members and foster a unified voice within the Council regarding this pivotal matter.
Madam President,
When we met, earlier this year, to discuss the situation in South Sudan, we had an almost unanimous assessment that South Sudan, the youngest member of the United Nations family, was at a critical moment in her history. In our view, this assessment remains valid.
In this context, as the country prepares to hold its first democratic elections, it is compelled to address several compounding challenges. Among them, the economic crisis, the appalling humanitarian situation, the influx of refugees and returnees from the Sudan, intercommunal violence and the effects of climate change.
These challenges limit the country’s ability to effectively carry out the activities necessary to hold elections that can ensure an outcome broadly reflective of the will of the electorate, as per the Revitalized Peace Agreement. As a consequence, we believe continued and strengthened assistance from UNMISS is vital now more than ever.
The A3+ voted in favor of this resolution so as to ensure that South Sudan continues to have the assistance it needs to prepare for the elections while addressing other challenges facing the country.
While we recognize the importance of UNMISS’ support, we also call on the South Sudanese stakeholders to honour their commitments and expedite the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement. This is critical for achieving progress that is truly South Sudanese-led and owned.
We take this opportunity to reiterate our strong support to UNMISS and to the Troop and Police contributing countries for their efforts and ultimate sacrifice for the peace and stability of South Sudan.
To conclude, Madame President, the A3+ stands in firm solidarity with the people and Government of South Sudan at this critical juncture in their history. Our unwavering commitment remains steadfast, as we continue to support this young country in overcoming its challenges and build a more just, united, stable and peaceful society.
I thank you, Madame President!
