GCC countries call to uphold international law to resolve Russia-Ukraine crisis
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Salma Hossein
- . February 23, 2023
- . Update: February 23, 2023 3:23 pm
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries called for adherence to the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter to resolve the Russia-Ukraine crisis.
Mohamed Al-Hassan, Oman’s permanent representative to the UN, urged upholding the principles of international law, especially the principle of sovereignty and territorial integrity of states and the non-interference in their international affairs, in solving the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.
Mohamed Al-Hassan’s remarks came at an emergency session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to mark the anniversary of the start of the war on Ukraine. He showed concern over the increase in the number of refugees and displaced people in Ukraine due to war.
During the session, Al-Hassan highlighted Article Two of the UN Charter, which highlights the principle of the sovereign equality of all its Members and they must settle their disputes by peaceful means. Al-Hassan said, “We encourage international and regional efforts to resolve the Ukraine issue in accordance with international law and based on the principles of the UN and its charter.”
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He further noted that GCC member states have good relations with all parties. He also urged nations to facilitate rapid and safe access to humanitarian assistance for all people in need.
During the session, a resolution drafted by the European Union (EU) called for an end to the conflict and demanded that Russia withdraw its troops from Ukraine. Member states would vote on the resolution. The voting is expected to take place on Thursday following speeches by representatives from over 80 countries.
During the session, Al-Hassan thanked the UN secretary-general for supporting the Black Sea Grain initiative, an agreement between Russia and Ukraine made with Turkey and the UN during the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The initiative helped in restoring stability to the prices of food and establishing food security for many countries.
