In accordance with the instructions issued by H.S.H. the Sovereign Prince, on the invasion of Ukrainian territory by the Russian Federation, Monaco avowed its firm commitment to respect for international law, the sovereignty of Ukraine and its territorial integrity within internationally recognised borders, speaking out at international organisations (notably the United Nations, Council of Europe, and Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)). The Principality also called for dialogue and diplomatic negotiations to continue, while hailing the courage shown by the Ukrainian people and their leaders.
In this context, the Principality of Monaco was an active participant at the emergency special session of the United Nations General Assembly, convened by the Security Council and held in New York from 28 February to 2 March 2022. This was the first emergency special session to be convened by the Security Council on an issue of peace and international security in 40 years.
The member states of the United Nations adopted a resolution titled Aggression against Ukraine, which “deplores in the strongest terms the aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine” and “demands that the Russian Federation immediately cease its use of force against Ukraine”.
The resolution was adopted by a significant majority of member states, with 141 (including Monaco) voting in favour and just five voting against. This overwhelming vote demanding the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory illustrates the international community’s support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression, and its strong commitment to the preservation of a global order based on international law.
H.E. Ms Isabelle Picco, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Monaco to the United Nations, spoke to reiterate the Principality’s commitment to respect for international law and the United Nations Charter, as well as the importance of resolving disputes through peaceful means. She also deplored the Russian Federation’s violation of the Olympic truce and the many repercussions of the conflict on the civilian population.
In addition, an urgent debate on the situation in Ukraine was held at the UN Human Rights Council on 3 and 4 March.
A resolution co-sponsored by Monaco and nearly 70 states across all continents was adopted on 4 March 2022 following a vote by the 47 member states, with 32 supporting the resolution and two voting against. The resolution seeks to set up an international commission to investigate the situation in Ukraine. The commission will be charged with carrying out investigations, and collecting and preserving witness accounts and evidence of violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.
In her speech, H.E. Ms Carole Lanteri, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Principality of Monaco to the Office of the United Nations in Geneva, called on all parties to the conflict to respect human rights and international humanitarian law. In concrete terms, this is about protecting civilian populations and infrastructure, especially schools and hospitals. On behalf of the Principality, she also urged the parties to resume dialogue in a bid to find a political solution to the conflict.
Source: www.gouv.mc