November 16, 2022
Mr. President, let me begin by thanking USG Rosemary DiCarlo for her briefing and update of the situation in Ukraine.
- India continues to remain concerned about the situation in Ukraine including the targeting of civilian infrastructure and the deaths of civilians. Since the beginning of the conflict, India has consistently called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and an end to the violence. We have called upon both sides to return to the path of diplomacy and dialogue, and also expressed our support for all diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. We thus stand ready to support all efforts aimed at de-escalation. India’s Prime Minister has said unequivocally that this cannot be an era of war.
- We hope that the international community will continue to respond positively to the call for humanitarian assistance. India has so far dispatched twelve consignments of humanitarian aid to Ukraine and stands ready to do more.
- The impact of the Ukraine conflict has not just been limited to Europe. The Global South is especially facing serious economic consequences. We are also seeing growing concerns on energy and food security from the conflict, that follow the severe stress created by two years of the Covid-19 pandemic.
- In so far as specific initiatives pertaining to issues like food grains and fertilizer shipments are concerned, we hope that the UN facilitated Black Sea grain and fertilizer package deal will be renewed in the coming days and will be implemented by all parties earnestly in all its aspects.
- India’s approach to the Ukraine conflict will continue to be people-centric. We are providing both humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and economic support to some of our neighbours in the Global South under economic distress.
- Let me reiterate that the global order is anchored on the principles of the UN Charter, international law and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states.
Thank you.