Statement by Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett at Security Council Briefing on Cooperation between the United Nations and the European Union

Mr. President, 

Guyana thanks Japan for organizing this meeting on cooperation between the United Nations and the European Union.  This annual briefing provides a platform through which areas of mutual interest and concern can be reviewed and discussed. I, therefore, thank the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell Fontelles, for his insightful briefing.

Mr. President,

Guyana and the European Union share a strong partnership based on shared values, our commitment to the principles of the UN Charter, including the principle of territorial integrity, and the political independence of Member States.

We, therefore, see the EU as an important partner of the United Nations, and in this context, the Security Council.

We extend our appreciation for their efforts to enhance collective security, promote conflict prevention, post-conflict stabilization, and in peacekeeping and peacebuilding processes. We note too, that the EU is a major troop and police contributing bloc, amounting to over 4,000 personnel across 11 civilian missions and nine military operations.

As a collective, the EU member states are among the largest financial contributors to the UN System and UN peacekeeping missions. In this regard, I take this opportunity to welcome the EU’s support for the African Union Peace Support Operations (AUPSOs), including resolution 2719 (2023), which was co-sponsored by EU member states.

Guyana also recognizes the EU as the world’s leading donor of humanitarian assistance. We also note their consistent representation of prominent thematic issues including climate change and the women, peace and security agenda.

Mr. President,

As outlined in Resolution 1631 (2005) regional organisations have a critical role to play in international peace efforts. Guyana believes that enhanced cooperation between these bodies and the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, will be vital in realizing a world of greater peace and stability. 

As generic threats to global peace and security remain and new threats emerge, including unregulated artificial intelligence, other cyber tools, and the rollback in democracy, among others, the cooperation between the UN and regional organizations, including the EU, is even more critical.  

The increasing risks climate change poses to peace and security in specific contexts is also another area for strengthened EU-UN cooperation. Guyana views addressing climate-security risks, including in relation to food insecurity, as an urgent objective.

Mr. President, I believe this Council is unanimous in its recognition of the intrinsic link between peace and security and development.  In this regard, Guyana recognizes the EU’s leading role in the provision of development assistance. We encourage continued attention to the development needs of countries, with full consideration of their cultural and other local contexts.

In closing, the EU remains a critical partner to the United Nations.  This partnership must be strengthened as we maximize complementarity for a more peaceful and secure world.

I thank you.