Mr. President,
I thank the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, for his presentation.
In six months, we will convene for the Summit of the Future. Among other things, this will be an occasion to reaffirm the importance of collaboration between the UN and regional organizations for the maintenance of international peace and security. In accordance with Chapter VIII of the UN Charter, these organizations play an essential role in strengthening the architecture of peace, both globally and regionally. The partnership between the United Nations and the European Union provides numerous examples to illustrate this point:
First of all, this partnership is essential for conflict prevention, crisis management, and peacekeeping. As we have heard, the European Union is committed to peace in various regions, such as the Middle East and the Horn of Africa. Similarly, in the Western Balkans, the EU supports the implementation of Security Council mandates, notably through the EUFOR Althea operation, in which Switzerland actively participates.
Secondly, the partnership with the European Union is crucial for addressing major global and regional challenges. The principles and rules of international law, shared by both the UN Charter and the founding documents of the European Union, form the bedrock of a peaceful international order, respectful of human rights and focused on development. These elements are interdependent and cannot be fully realized individually. The UN and the EU, like Switzerland, are committed to the rule of law, international criminal justice, democracy, and sustainable development. And like the EU, Switzerland pays particular attention to the protection of civilians in armed conflicts and respect for international humanitarian law. In the context of Ukraine, Switzerland also shares the priority of implementing respect for these fundamental principles. It is high time to take concrete steps towards a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in this country.
Switzerland also shares the EU's priorities on climate, peace and security with the aim of mitigating humanitarian and security impacts. Like the EU, we believe that enhanced cooperation is crucial for conflict prevention. In this regard, it is essential to develop and use early warning and rapid response mechanisms that integrate climate and environmental aspects. To be effective, these efforts must be coordinated between national and regional institutions, as well as between the EU and the UN. This is also one of the recommendations of the New Agenda for Peace. Across the board, the EU is also an important partner in promoting the "Women, Peace and Security" agenda in various contexts on this Council's agenda.
Mr. President,
In less than six months, we will adopt a Pact for the Future. The stakes for multilateralism are clear: laying the groundwork for a peaceful and sustainable future for all humans, in full dignity.
The partnership with the European Union – and with regional organizations in general – is crucial for revitalizing multilateralism. While reforms of global governance are necessary, we must not ignore the successes achieved, particularly in conflict prevention. Thanks to their local roots, their ability to detect tensions, and the increased trust among their members, regional organizations can actively contribute to these difficult-to-measure successes.
Mr. President,
A peaceful and sustainable future for all human beings, in full dignity.
Switzerland will continue to collaborate closely with the European Union and the United Nations, within and beyond the Security Council. For this is the vision of the United Nations, it is the vision of the European Union, and it is our vision too.
Thank you.