Tag: Foreign Office

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 January 2024.

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council meeting on West Africa.

Thank you, President. I’m grateful to SRSG Simão and Dr Théroux-Bénoni for their briefings this morning. Let me make four points on security, democracy, climate change, and humanitarian need.

First, as we’ve heard, security across the Sahel is deteriorating. The UK is particularly concerned about the situation in Mali, where UNOWAS has a crucial role to play after MINUSMA’s withdrawal. We encourage UNOWAS, through its good offices, to help bring all signatories to the 2015 Algiers Accords back to the negotiating table.

The UK welcomes ECOWAS contributions to regional security and supports the potential of the Accra Initiative. We also stand ready to support the region and the UN for the upcoming Africa Counter Terrorism Summit. We reiterate that the region’s security challenges are only exacerbated by the destabilising chaos of Russian mercenary group Wagner.

Second, democracy is under pressure. Timelines for the restoration of constitutional governments in Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea continue to slip. We echo ECOWAS’ calls for a return to constitutional order, and we encourage recommitment to transition timetables. We call on Niger to agree a transition timeline with ECOWAS.

The United Kingdom congratulates Liberia for its recent peaceful transfer of power, and welcomes the Peacebuilding Commission’s role supporting this process. We urge redoubled efforts on UNOWAS’ regional work to prevent election-related tensions.

Third, the Security Council has recognised the adverse effects of climate change on security and stability in the region. We welcome UNOWAS’ work in the climate-security nexus. The UK is supporting work in the region to build the resilience of those most vulnerable to climate change.

Fourth, the humanitarian situation remains dire. Since 2019, UK aid has supported over 15 million in the Sahel with life-saving assistance, but humanitarian needs are still going unmet.  We call on all actors to ensure safe and unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance.

In closing, President, in light of the regional challenges we’ve all set out here today, we should recommit to even closer work with UNOWAS and the regional organisations. We join others in calling for a presidential statement of the Council to reflect this commitment.

I thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 10 January 2024.

Explanation of vote by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 10 January 2024.

Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine.

Thank you, President, and I thank Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo and Director Wosornu for their briefings today.

Amid New Year celebrations elsewhere, Ukrainians entered this New Year in darkness, without heating, without shelter, and with air raids ringing.

Ninety drones were fired at Odesa, Lviv and other cities on New Year’s Eve. Another massive assault took place on Monday as temperatures across Ukraine dropped as low as minus 20. Over 1,000 towns and villages in nine regions were left without power.

Responders are rapidly making repairs and I do not doubt the resilience and the determination of Ukrainians to defend their freedom and their territory. But these attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure must stop.

In addition, Russia’s use of ballistic missiles from the DPRK is a sign of recklessness and desperation. It violates multiple resolutions.

All UN Members have an obligation to implement UN resolutions. So I call on Russia, a P5 country, to halt its trading in arms with the DPRK, and to implement all UNSC resolutions in full, and to restate its commitment to the global non-proliferation regime.

I also call on Iran, the DPRK, and any third party that is providing material support to the Russian war machine to cease immediately. Ending Russia’s access to foreign weapons will help end this war.

Now more specifically, President, near the front lines in Ukraine, the situation is even worse. The UN’s Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan for 2024 refers to entire communities pummelled daily, regions where no hospital or clinic has been left untouched by war. People have been without water and gas in their homes for over a year now.

As we heard from OCHA, over 14.6 million people, about 40 percent of the Ukrainian population living in Ukraine, will need humanitarian assistance in 2024.  The UK has committed $472.72 million in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and the region since 2022 and our support will continue.

But as I heard during my visit to Kyiv, Russia continues to impede humanitarian access for millions of people living in the temporarily controlled territories.  Civilians are struggling to access water, food, shelter and other essential services. And the situation is expected to get worse as the cold weather intensifies.

So Russia must, as this Council has said repeatedly, allow humanitarian organisations safe and unimpeded access to these areas immediately.

Mr President, New Year is a time for resolutions. We suggest Russia make three. To abide by the UN Charter and Council resolutions, to stop its attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, and to withdraw its military from Ukrainian soil.

Thank you, President.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 10 January 2024.

The UK government launched the International Science Partnerships Fund worth £218 million of Official Development Assistance designed to help unlock potential and foster prosperity.

The International Science Partnerships Fund, which is open to countries including Malaysia, puts research and innovation at the heart of UK international relationships, supporting researchers and innovators to work with peers around the world on the major themes of our time: planet, health, technology, and talent.

ISPF directs government investment and effort into the science and research issues that really matter. It builds partnerships based on excellence to share knowledge and research infrastructure, cultivate strong diplomatic ties, promote global standards and values, and foster mobile talent in Southeast Asia and in the UK.

Today, the British High Commission Kuala Lumpur (BHC KL) organised the ISPF Malaysia launch to disseminate the information to the wider science and innovation community.  ISPF will explore programmes in the themes of resilient planet, healthy people, animals and planets, transformative technologies, and tomorrow’s talent.

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, YB Tuan Chang Lih Kang who attended the launch said:

The International Science Partnership Fund marks a key collaboration between Malaysia and the UK, driving a new phase in Malaysia’s science and technology journey. This partnership fosters innovative research and sustainable advancements that will enrich both nations. Our joint efforts exemplify the strength of international cooperation in advancing science and technology for global well-being.

British High Commissioner to Malaysia, Her Excellency Ailsa Terry CMG added:

The UK and Malaysia share a longstanding research partnership through the Newton-Ungku Omar Fund and Global Challenges Research Fund. The launch of the International Science Partnership Fund in Malaysia is the next chapter of our ambitious science and technology partnership with Malaysia, and our joint commitment in developing talent and capabilities, strengthening our research network and tackle some of greatest challenges we face today.

ISPF worldwide is deployed by the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. Its implementation in Malaysia is facilitated by the BHC KL. ISPF programmes are delivered by a consortium of the UK’s leading research and innovation bodies, which includes UK Research and Innovation (comprising the 7 research councils, Innovate UK and Research England), the UK Academies, the British Council, the Met Office, the National Physical Laboratory, the UK Atomic Energy Authority, and Universities UK International.

Some of these organisations will work with their Malaysian counterparts to publish calls for research proposals to which researchers or universities can apply through a competitive process.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 9 January 2024.

Statement by Ambassador Archie Young at UN General Assembly 51st plenary meeting 78th Session.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Colleagues, we have heard the repeated warnings from humanitarian experts on the ground in Gaza that nine out of ten people are only getting one meal a day. That over half a million people are projected to be facing catastrophic levels of hunger. And that disease is spreading in overcrowded areas as people go without basic healthcare, shelter and clean water. So it is devastating to hear that aid is still piling up outside Gaza, undelivered to those in desperate need.

The UK reiterates our strong support for Security Council resolution 2720, for which we voted in favour, and reiterates our thanks to the UAE for their leadership. The resolution set out the urgent demand for expanded humanitarian access, the release of hostages and steps towards a sustainable ceasefire where Hamas can no longer pose a threat to Israel.

The UK, as a P5 member, considers the veto a heavy responsibility, to be used in the interests of securing the peace and security that people around the world seek.  It should be exercised responsibly, and with caution.

United Nations Security Council resolution 2720 is definitive. It demands that the parties to the conflict “allow, facilitate and enable the immediate, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance” throughout the Gaza strip. We call on all parties to implement this resolution in full.

We want to see at least 500 aid and private sector trucks enter Gaza every day, far more than the 150 currently taking place. Israel should accelerate and rationalise its screening, clear the backlog of loaded trucks in Egypt, and do everything else it can to facilitate aid into Gaza. Israel should also open more entry points for longer, for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, if security allows.

The UK warmly welcomes the appointment of Sigrid Kaag as the UN’s Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator. She brings a vast wealth of experience to this crisis. All parties to the conflict should cooperate fully with her and her team. The UK is also clear that Israel should renew visas for UN and NGO staff.

The Foreign Secretary has consistently raised these issues with his Israeli counterparts, including Foreign Minister Israel Katz and Minister for Strategic Affairs, Ron Dermer. The Foreign Secretary has also appointed Mark Bryson-Richardson in December as his Representative for Humanitarian Affairs in the Occupied Palestinian Territories to coordinate our efforts to relieve the suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza.

Thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 January 2024.

The FCDO has issued a statement following elections in Bangladesh.

An FCDO spokesperson said:

“The United Kingdom notes the results of the 12th Parliamentary Elections in Bangladesh, which took place on 7 January 2024.

“Democratic elections depend on credible, open, and fair competition. Respect for human rights, rule of law and due process are essential elements of the democratic process. These standards were not consistently met during the election period. We are concerned at the significant number of arrests of opposition party members before polling day.

“We condemn the acts of intimidation and violence that took place prior to and during the campaign period. Such conduct has no place in political life.

“Not all political parties took part in the elections. The Bangladeshi people did not therefore have the fullest range of voting options.

“The United Kingdom and Bangladesh share a deep and historic friendship. Creating the conditions for a sustainable political settlement and vibrant civil society will enable long-term growth.  We encourage all political parties to address their differences and find a common way forward in the interests of the people of Bangladesh. We will continue to support this process.”

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 January 2024.

The UK, Canada, Sweden and Ukraine have issued a joint statement on the initiation of dispute settlement proceedings before the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) against Iran.

The International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752 today issued the following joint statement:

We, ministers representing Canada, Sweden, Ukraine and the United Kingdom, have taken another step on the road to transparency, justice and accountability for Iran’s unlawful downing of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 which killed 176 people including nationals and residents of our countries.

Today we have jointly initiated dispute settlement proceedings before the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) against the Islamic Republic of Iran for using weapons against a civil aircraft in flight in breach of its international legal obligations under Article 3bis of the Convention on International Civil Aviation (known as the Chicago Convention).

For four years now, Iran has refused to take full legal responsibility for the downing of Flight PS752 despite our numerous attempts to engage in negotiations on this matter. As a result, we have referred the dispute to the ICAO Council for a decision pursuant to Article 84 of the Chicago Convention.

Initiating these proceedings today reflects our commitment to the families who deserve justice. It also reflects our trust in the ICAO council, and the international community writ large, as guardian of the safety and security of civil aviation, including by settling disputes when they arise. It is necessary that those who violate the rules are held accountable. Our common hope is that this action alongside our continued pursuit of justice at the International Court of Justice can lead to real change and prevent similar tragic losses in the future. Justice shall prevail.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 January 2024.

Lord (Tariq) Ahmad, Minister of State for the Middle East, South Asia, UN and the Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict arrives in India today (Monday) where he will launch two new UK-funded sustainability projects.

• UK’s Minister of State, Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon, will visit Chennai in Tamil Nadu and Ahmedabad in Gujarat on a three-day visit to India.
• Attending the Tamil Nadu Global Investors Meet (TNGIM), he will announce two new UK-funded sustainability projects.
• His visit will include attendance at Vibrant Gujarat, an innovation-focused summit.

Whilst in Chennai, the Minister will launch a Heat Mitigation project alongside Tamil Nadu’s State Planning Commission. The project will provide recommendations to the Government of Tamil Nadu to address extreme heat related deaths and the loss of vital ecosystems.

With the Tamil Nadu Department of Environment and Climate Change, he will also launch an Electronic and Battery Waste Management project, which will develop a plan to reduce battery waste.

As the states of Tamil Nadu and Gujarat are two of India’s largest economies, the Minister will use his trip to highlight the strong UK-India trade partnership and explore new opportunities to collaborate, including on clean energy growth.

Lord Ahmad Minister of State for the Middle East, South Asia, UN, and the Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence said:

Tamil Nadu and Gujarat are leading the way in the development of emerging technologies, and I am delighted to see first-hand British businesses pioneering innovation in the region.

During my visit I look forward to further promoting joint innovation projects alongside dynamic Indian businesses – from renewable manufacturing to financial services.  These are made possible through the close trade partnership we have between our two countries.”

Attending the TNGIM in Chennai, a flagship investment summit, Lord Ahmad will deliver a keynote speech on the success of innovative UK-India projects in climate and energy.

He will continue to showcase the sustainable success of British businesses overseas at a GREAT reception and will see first-hand how British business is supporting clean growth in India.

At the Biennial Investors’ Summit, Vibrant Gujarat, the Minister will celebrate the close ties between the UK and India through business, culture, and our great links between our peoples.

While at Vibrant Gujarat, he will witness the signing of an MoU between the UK’s Abertay University and India’s École Intuit Lab. The partnership agreement will see teaching, research and innovation expertise shared between the two organisations.

Strengthening the UK-India relationship is a key pillar of the UK’s long-term foreign policy, as part of its enduring engagement in the Indo-Pacific set out in the Integrated Review Refresh.

Further Information

• The 2030 Roadmap for India-UK future relations was launched in 2021. Since then, significant progress has been made, including on health collaboration, advancing the transition to clean energy, cyber-security cooperation and the expansion of our defence and security partnership.
• The UK Government Advanced Manufacturing Plan is supported by £4.5 billion in funding, including £3 billion for automotive and aerospace, the plan focuses on driving innovation and supporting the transition to net zero.
• Launch of UK-funded projects in Tamil Nadu: as part of the ongoing climate and energy collaboration between the UK and Tamil Nadu, notably on offshore wind, green hydrogen and forests, two new collaboration projects will be launched:
  • Heat Mitigation Strategy for Tamil Nadu Project, which will work with the Government of Tamil Nadu to develop a strategy and action plan to address extreme heat related deaths and loss of ecosystems. The project will work towards the common goals of India and UK to address pressing climate challenges, particularly climate induced extreme weather events.
  • Electronic and Battery Waste Management Project, which will work with the Government of Tamil Nadu to develop a strategy and action plan on circular economy for electronic and battery waste to address the issue of increasing e-waste, including batteries, in a leading industrial state.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 January 2024.

• UK’s Minister of State, Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon, will visit Chennai in Tamil Nadu and Ahmedabad in Gujarat on a 3-day visit to India
• attending the Tamil Nadu Global Investor’s Meet (TNGIM), he will announce 2 new UK-funded sustainability projects
• he will also attend Vibrant Gujarat, an innovation-focused summit

Lord (Tariq) Ahmad, Minister of State for the Middle East, South Asia, UN and the Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict arrives in India today (Monday 8 January) where he will launch 2 new UK-funded sustainability projects.

Whilst in Chennai, the minister will launch a Heat Mitigation project alongside Tamil Nadu’s State Planning Commission. The project will provide recommendations to the Government of Tamil Nadu to address extreme heat related deaths and the loss of vital ecosystems.

With the Tamil Nadu Department of Environment and Climate Change, he will also launch an Electronic and Battery Waste Management project, which will develop a plan to reduce battery waste.

The minister will meet with national and local government representatives and talks will be wide ranging, from clean energy to human rights. He will also discuss progress towards an ambitious trade deal, for which there is strong political will on both sides.

As the states of Tamil Nadu and Gujarat are 2 of India’s largest economies, the minister will use his trip to highlight the strong UK-India trade partnership and explore new opportunities to collaborate, including on clean energy growth.

Lord Ahmad Minister of State for the Middle East, South Asia, UN, and the Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence said:

Tamil Nadu and Gujarat are leading the way in the development of emerging technologies, and I am delighted to see first-hand British businesses pioneering innovation in the region.

During my visit I look forward to further promoting joint innovation projects alongside dynamic Indian businesses – from renewable manufacturing to financial services. These are made possible through the close trade partnership we have between our 2 countries.

Attending the TNGIM in Chennai, a flagship investment summit, Lord Ahmad will deliver a keynote speech on the success of innovative UK-India projects in climate and energy.

He will continue to showcase the sustainable success of British businesses overseas at a GREAT reception and will see first-hand how British business is supporting clean growth in India.

At the Biennial Investors’ Summit, Vibrant Gujarat, the minister will celebrate the close ties between the UK and India through business, culture, and our great links between our peoples.

While at Vibrant Gujarat, he will witness the signing of an MoU between the UK’s Abertay University and India’s École Intuit Lab. The partnership agreement will see teaching, research and innovation expertise shared between the 2 organisations.

Strengthening the UK-India relationship is a key pillar of the UK’s long-term foreign policy, as part of its enduring engagement in the Indo-Pacific set out in the Integrated Review Refresh.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 4 January 2024.

The UK has issued a statement in response to Russia using weapons sourced from North Korea against Ukraine.

A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson said:

The UK strongly condemns Russia’s decision to use ballistic missiles sourced from North Korea in recent attacks against Ukraine. We urge North Korea to cease its arms supply to Russia.

Russia is turning to North Korea for its weapons in pursuit of its cynical and ill-conceived military aims in Ukraine. This is symptomatic of its isolation on the world stage and a sign of its desperation. Furthermore, this activity is in violation of multiple UN Security Council Resolutions – which Russia supported as a Permanent Member.

Any support for North Korea’s own illegal weapons programmes risks significantly undermining the UN’s long standing commitment to security, and further destabilising the region.

North Korea is subject to a robust sanctions regime, and we will continue to work with our partners to ensure that North Korea pays a high price for supporting Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine.