A3+ statement delivered by H.E. Amar Bendjama, Permanent Representative of Algeria at the Security Council Briefing on the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI)
Madam President
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the A3+ members, namely, Guyana, Mozambique, Sierra Leone and my own country, Algeria.
We thank Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNAMI for her briefing. We also welcome the participation of the representatives of Iraq and Kuwait in today’s meeting.
We commend the steadfast commitment and tireless efforts of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) as it continues to play a crucial role in supporting Iraq's national priorities and endeavors towards peace, stability, and the advancement of democratic governance.
Today we will focus on three important areas: the political, security, and human rights situations.
1. On the political front,
The A3+ congratulates Iraq for holding, as scheduled, on 18th December 2023, the Governorate Council elections, in 15 federal provinces, for the first time in ten years, and the provincial council elections in Kirkuk, which have not been held since 2005.
We commend the Independent High Electoral Commission, and the security forces for their efforts and contribution to the successful elections, despite a challenging environment.
We also note from the report of the Secretary-General that there were over 1600 registered female candidates, nearly one-third of the total. Such engagement of women should be highlighted.
The A3+ is encouraged by the commitment of the Government of Iraq to improving public services, and carrying out important economic and financial reforms.
The efforts of Iraq to pursue economic diversification and social protection are encouraging, and in keeping with the implementation of the SDGs, to meet the aspirations of the Iraqi people.
We welcome UNAMI's advisory support to Iraq's constitutional and legislative processes, strengthening governance and accountability, fostering support for internally displaced persons, and enhancing the role of women and youth in peacebuilding and nation-building initiatives.
2. The security situation
The A3+ commends the continued commitment of the Iraqi Security Forces in responding to Da’esh threats.
We note with deep concern the continued attacks by Da’esh; including the attacks on the Iraqi Security Forces’ personnel and assets.
It’s important in this regard to highlight the significant progress made by the Iraqi forces in combating the scourge of terrorism. This fight is not just for Iraq, it's for all of us.
By standing together, by supporting the Iraqi people and their government, we can ensure that Da'esh's shadow fades, and Iraq emerges stronger.
It is in the interest of the whole region and the international community to see a safe and stable Iraq.
Further, the A3+ remains gravely concerned about the increasing strikes against Iraq’s sovereign territory. The regional spillover of the ongoing situation in Gaza, including in Iraq, risks undermining and undoing the country’s progress.
We call for all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to take urgent steps for the de-escalation of tensions in the Middle East, further, we reiterate our call for an immediate ceasefire and full, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza, which is of paramount importance to ensure regional stability.
3. On human rights
The A3+ wishes to commend the efforts of UNAMI to promote human rights in Iraq. In this vein, the A3+ takes positive note of the progress made by Iraq in upholding the rights of the child.
However, we remain deeply concerned by the instances of child casualties due to the explosive remnants of war.
In this regard, the A3+ underlines the importance of continuing technical support to Iraq, in the removal of war remnants, and unexploded ordnances.
We believe that addressing ongoing humanitarian needs and achieving durable solutions for internally displaced persons are critical for Iraq’s long-term stability and prosperity.
Thus, we congratulate Iraq on the progress made in returning the displaced persons from the Syrian camp: Al-Hawl to the Iraqi camp: Al-Jadaa, and we support the rehabilitation operations for their return and safe social integration.
As Iraq navigates a pivotal phase in its history, characterized by ongoing recovery and state-building, we urge the international community to continue to support the people of Iraq and their legitimate aspiration for peace and prosperity.
Finally, the positive changes achieved over the last two decades are evident. Iraq today is an important partner in the fight for regional development and stability in the Middle East.
We remain encouraged by UNAMI's ongoing efforts and stand committed to supporting actions that advance progress and sustainable development in Iraq in keeping with the priorities of the government and the people of Iraq.
I thank you
