Tag: Foreign Office

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 December 2023.

Statement by UK Legal Adviser Chanaka Wickremasinghe at the UN Security Council meeting on the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals.

Thank you Mr President.

I’d like to start by thanking President Gatti Santana and Prosecutor Brammertz for their briefings today and for the latest Report of the Mechanism.

I’d also like to take the opportunity to pay tribute to the Ambassador of Gabon and his team for their leadership of the Council’s informal working group on tribunals.

Mr President, today I want to make three points.

First, the Mechanism’s work has continued effectively and efficiently over the past six months. Most recently, this has included the confirmation of the death of the fugitive, Mr. Aloys Ndimbati. We commend the Office of the Prosecutor for its work and echo the report’s call for continued cooperation between all states to secure the arrests of the remaining two Rwandan fugitives as soon as possible.

My second point is that the Mechanism’s work remains critical. In the Western Balkans, we’ve seen heightened ethno-national tensions, and concerning use of hate speech by some political figures. Such language entrenches division and holds back countries from providing safe, inclusive, and prosperous environments for their citizens.

The Court has played an essential role in delivering justice for all, which has in turn, has promoted peace and reconciliation. We therefore welcome progress in the mechanism’s discussions with the government of Croatia on the establishment in Zagreb of an information center on the ICTY. Such centers can promote knowledge and understanding of history which is important in challenging the denial of atrocity crimes.

Further, the mechanism’s ongoing work with the government of Rwanda remains essential as Rwanda looks to commemorate 30 years since the genocide against the Tutsi in April next year. Given the Mechanism’s critical role, the UK is proud to demonstrate its support through enforcing sentences and in doing so it takes seriously its duty of care to detainees under the supervision of the Mechanism.

My third point is there remain several abstanding issues which impact the Mechanism’s ability to deliver its mandate and which must be addressed. In particular, we are disappointed by reports of some states blocking cooperation in the Western Balkans. We call on Serbia to fulfill its obligation to arrest and transfer Petar Jojić and Vjerica Radeta to the Mechanism following years of requests.

The UK is also concerned by the situation of the Rwandan individuals relocated to Niger who have been rendered stateless since 2022 and remain under house arrest. We would welcome further updates on efforts to find a durable solution regarding these individuals.

Mr President, to conclude, the Mechanism has much important and sensitive work to do, ensuring sentences are properly enforced, its legacy is preserved, and national prosecutions are supported. We see that the Mechanism is well placed to deliver on these ongoing functions, and that it is taking seriously the need to do so in a streamlined way. We look forward to reviewing the Mechanism’s mandate over the coming months.

Thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 December 2023.

The fifth meeting of the Specialised Committee, co-chaired by the European Commission and the UK government, discussed issues relating to the Sovereign Base Areas in Cyprus.

Joint statement by UK government and European Commission:

The fifth meeting of the Specialised Committee on issues related to the implementation of the Protocol relating to the Sovereign Base Areas in Cyprus was held on 12 December 2023, co-chaired by officials from the European Commission and the UK Government.

The Committee was established by the Withdrawal Agreement to facilitate the implementation and application of the Protocol.

The EU and the UK reviewed the operational phase of the implementation of the Protocol since its last meeting in July 2022.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the smooth implementation of the Protocol and confirmed the need to finalise technical discussions with the objective of reaching a common understanding on the correct implementation of the Protocol in the area of fisheries (Article 6 of the Protocol) and taxation (Article 3 of the Protocol).

The co-chairs confirmed that the technical discussions should include legal experts from both sides and be completed promptly.  The Specialised Committee will revert to this issue immediately afterwards.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 December 2023.

The British High Commission, Accra has presented 8 ambulances to the Ghana Armed Forces to improve medical outreach in the Northern border regions.

The official handover ceremony which took place on Friday, 12 December at the Burma Camp in Accra is a testament of the strong security and defence ties that the UK and Ghana share.

The event brought together:

• the UK Minister of State for the Armed Forces, Rt. Hon. James Heappey
• the Chief of the Defence Staff, Vice Admiral Seth Amoama from the Ghana Armed Forces
• British High Commissioner, H.E. Harriet Thompson
• representatives from the UK government
• representatives from the Ghana Armed Forces

Together, they demonstrated a collaborative effort to bolster peace and security in the Northern regions.

Ghana, like her neighbours, appreciates the importance of civilian cooperation in the Northern regions as the Armed Forces work alongside non-governmental organisations in the fight to prevent and limit violent extremist organisations. The ambulances provided are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to aid the Ghana Armed Forces in their medical outreaches in the 5 Northern regions, as part of the UK-Ghana Civilian Military Cooperation Programme.

Speaking at the handing over ceremony, the UK Minister of State for the Armed Forces, Rt. Hon. James Heappey said:

Ghana is a key partner for the UK. We work together to tackle shared challenges from violent extremism in the Sahel to maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea and this donation underscores the strong partnership between the UK and Ghana.

We are proud to contribute to Ghana Armed Force’s capacity to protect and serve its civilians in the 5 Northern regions to counter violent extremism, and we will continue to foster long-lasting partnerships through our annual security dialogue.

The ambulances will be distributed in the Wa, Bolgatanga, Sandema Mechanical Brigade Headquarters and the Armoured Regimental Headquarters in Damango respectively.

The UK continues to work closely with the Ghana Armed Forces to support Ghana’s leadership position in the sub-region and to strengthen the capability of Ghanaian security services to take the lead in responding to instability in the region, particularly those related to that of violent extremists emanating from the Sahel.

Further information

About The Rt. Hon. James Heappey

The Rt. Hon James Heappey is the UK’s Minister for the Armed Forces. Prior to his appointment, he previously served as the Minister for Defence Procurement and a former Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Prime Minister.

About the UK-Ghana Security Dialogue

The UK-Ghana Security Dialogue is one of the many platforms which exhibits the UK and Ghana’s longstanding relationship, particularly in defence and security. The relationship is underpinned by shared principles of democratic governance and respect for international humanitarian and human rights law as well as mutual concerns about regional instability and a desire to support regional and international peace and security.

The governments of both countries affirm their commitment to the partnership in the face of complex and evolving regional and global threats including terrorism, conflict, human trafficking, serious and organised crimes, drug trafficking, cyber-crime and piracy, and recognising the prominent role Ghana plays in countering these threats.

Through these annual dialogues, the UK and Ghana agree to enhance strong existing cooperation in the following areas:

• defence cooperation and maritime security
• serious and organised crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking and border security
• countering terrorism and violent extremism

They also seek to promote:

• civil-military cooperation
• human security led approaches to mitigating risks of instability
• combatting mis- and disinformation
• effective use of intelligence
• regional cooperation to address transnational security threats

About the Civilian Military Cooperation Programme (CIMIC)

The system of interaction involving exchange on information, negotiation, de-confliction, mutual support and planning at all levels between military elements and humanitarian organisations, development organisations or the local civilian population to achieve respective objectives.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 December 2023.

On the 23-year anniversary of the Algiers Agreement, the FCDO gave a statement to reiterate its support.

A Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) spokesperson said:

Twenty-three years ago today, Ethiopia and Eritrea, with the support of the international community, concluded the Algiers Agreement to establish peace and demarcate a common border. In 2018, in a historic peace agreement, both countries recommitted to respect the border as established by the Algiers Agreement and its subsequent Boundary Commission.

On this anniversary it is more important than ever that the sovereignty and territorial integrity as defined by these agreements is respected. The UK reiterates our full support for the Algiers Agreement and the border as established by its subsequent Boundary Commission, and remains committed to working with all Horn of Africa countries toward the shared goal of a peaceful and prosperous region.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 December 2023.

Statement by UK Political Coordinator Fergus Eckersley at the UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 December 2023.

UK statement in response to Chinese escalation against the Philippines in the South China Sea.

A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development spokesperson said:

The UK condemns the unsafe and escalatory tactics deployed by Chinese vessels against the Philippines on 9 and 10 December in the South China Sea. The UK opposes any action which raises tensions, including harassment, unsafe conduct and intimidation tactics which increase the risk of miscalculation and threaten regional peace and stability.

The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea sets out the legal framework that governs all activities in the oceans and seas. We oppose any claims that are not founded in UNCLOS.  Both China and the Philippines must adhere to the findings of the 2016 Arbitral Award proceedings, which are legally binding on both parties.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 December 2023.

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

Thank you, President. Let me begin by thanking SRSG Keita and Ms Lusamba for briefing us today. I welcome the participation of the representatives of the DRC and Rwanda at this meeting.  President, the United Kingdom reiterates its full support for the work carried out by MONUSCO and SRSG Keita in challenging circumstances. I would like to make three points in response to what we have heard today.

First, the UK commends the Government of the DRC and MONUSCO for their collaboration on the Force disengagement plan, which includes, where appropriate, the transfer of tasks to the UN Country Team and other international partners. We welcome the Government’s commitment to a gradual, responsive, responsible and sustainable withdrawal process.

Second,  with the departure of MONUSCO, the DRC must assume its responsibilities to protect the civilian population. We urge the Government to step up preparations in this regard, and we encourage MONUSCO to continue its capacity-building efforts with the government to ensure a smooth transition. Intensifying violence, changing movements of regional forces on the ground, soaring numbers of victims of conflict-related sexual violence, particularly in IDP camps in eastern DRC, and a deteriorating humanitarian situation highlight the urgency of getting this process right.

Third, we continue to urge restraint and dialogue from all parties given the very real risk of miscalculation and the horrendous cost of further escalation. In particular, we urge all parties to recommit to the Nairobi and Luanda regional peacebuilding processes which are the best roadmaps towards a peaceful DRC. We commend the contribution of the East African Community and the East African Community Regional Force.

Dialogue, not violence, is the way to achieve lasting peace. We urge all parties and countries in the region to fulfil commitments to revitalise these political processes and deliver tangible action to address shared security challenges, improve humanitarian access and reduce violence.

Finally, President, we look forward to peaceful, credible and inclusive elections on 20 December, which will provide a chance to anchor democracy in the DRC. The UK looks forward to working with the new Government.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 December 2023.

The British Government announced today the 51 winners of 2024 Marshall Scholarships – the largest class in the history of the scholarship program.

Washington, DC (11 December 2023) – The British Government announced today the 51 winners of 2024 Marshall Scholarships, the largest class in the seven decades-running scholarship program. The recipients, considered among America’s most accomplished undergraduate university students and recent graduates, were chosen following an intense selection process and will begin graduate studies at top universities across the United Kingdom next year.

The Marshall Scholarship program was created by an Act of British Parliament in 1953 as a living memorial to former US Secretary of State General George C. Marshall and the USA for assistance under the Marshall Plan. The scholarship allows for up to three years of graduate study in any academic topic at any university in the UK, home to 17 of the top 100 universities in the world.

Dame Karen Pierce, British Ambassador to the USA, said:

Nearly 70 years after the first group of American students journeyed across the Atlantic, the Marshall Scholarship program remains an integral part of the UK-US relationship. The British Government is excited to welcome this diverse and incredibly talented group of students to our shores, who embody the spirit and values that have animated the bilateral relationship.

Twelve scholars were selected in the original 1954 class (eight men and four women) becoming one of the first co-educational national scholarships in UK history and 21 years before the British Sex Discrimination Act of 1975 banned the exclusion of women in education. Since that time, over 2,200 American men and women have received graduate degrees through the Marshall Scholarship before going on to play leading roles in American society.

Among this year’s class are aspiring diplomats, doctors, fighter pilots and scientists. Half of the 2024 class will pursue STEM-related degrees, including several who will study issues relating to the ethics and advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The focus on attracting America’s top young scientific minds reflects the UK Government’s effort to transform Britain into a ‘Science & Technology Superpower’ by 2030. Last month, the UK hosted the first-ever global AI Summit, which saw 28 nations reach a landmark agreement to collaborate on the challenges and opportunities of AI. Earlier this year, the UK and US also agreed to a new economic partnership known as the ‘Atlantic Declaration’, pledging joint collaboration and investment in developing advanced technologies like AI, quantum and 6G.

John Raine, Chair of the Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission, said:

The Marshall Scholarship has a proud history of helping to drive scientific innovation. From Ray Dolby’s revolutionary advancements in audio engineering to Dr. Dan Barouch’s critical role in spearheading the development of a COVID-19 vaccine, Marshall Scholars are continuing to push the scientific boundaries of what’s possible.

The program received 1006 applications this year, from candidates representing academic institutions across the United States. 34 US universities across 21 US States and the District of Columbia are represented, nearly a third of which are state or public universities and military service academies. Mississippi State University, Washington & Lee University (VA) and the University of Hawaii at Hilo will send Marshall Scholars to the UK for the first time ever. Awards were extended to scholars representing the University of Denver and the University of Mississippi for the first time in two decades.

The program is principally funded by the British Government, but also benefits from generous support through partnership arrangements with world-leading British academic institutions, allowing winners to pursue graduate degrees in almost any academic subject at any university in the UK. The 2024 class will take up their studies at 18 different institutions across the UK starting next September, ranging from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine to Loughborough University in Leicestershire.

The scholarship program also continues to receive generous support from the Association of Marshall Scholars (AMS), the official alumni organisation of the Marshall Scholarship. The British Schools & Universities Foundation (BUSF) also provides generous support and funds for a scholarship.

The full list of 2024 winners are:

About the Marshall Scholarship

Named for Secretary of State George C. Marshall, the Marshall Scholarship Program began in 1953 as a gesture of gratitude to the people of the United States for the assistance that the UK received after World War II under the Marshall Plan. Since that time, it has remained uniquely positioned among national scholarships for its prestige and scope: offering talented young Americans the chance to study any academic subject at UK universities of their choice for up to three years. This has given rise to an unprecedented breadth of expertise in almost every academic field, producing numerous university presidents, six Pulitzer Prize winners, one Nobel Laureate, fourteen MacArthur Fellows, two-academy-Award nominees, two US Supreme Court Justices and a NASA Astronaut.

With over 2,200 scholarships awarded to date, Marshall Scholars are leading the conversation and direction of some of the most critical issues of our time. Notable winners of the scholarship include:

• Supreme Court Associate Justices Stephen Breyer (ret.) and Neil Gorsuch
• William Burns, Director of the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency
• Pulitzer Prize-winning authors Anne Applebaum, Tom Friedman, Jeffrey Gettleman and Dan Yergin
• Dr. Dan Barouch, Leading COVID-19 vaccine researcher and William Bosworth Castle Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School
• Kurt Campbell, Deputy Assistant to the President and Coordinator for the Indo-Pacific, White House National Security Council; Nominee for Deputy Secretary of State at US State Department
• Reid Hoffman, Philanthropist and founder of social networking platform LinkedIn
• Lisa Cook, Economist and currently the first African-American woman and first person of color to sit on the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.
• Congressmen Derek Kilmer (WA-6th CD) and Gabe Amo (RI-1st CD)
• Kris Kobach, Attorney General of the State of Kansas
• Jocelyn Benson, Secretary of State for the State of Michigan
• Anne McClain, NASA Astronaut who served aboard the International Space Station in 2018
• Roger Tsien, 2008 Nobel Prize Winner in Chemistry
• Ray Dolby, Founder of Dolby Laboratories and 1997 winner of the National Medal of Technology and Innovation
• Rebecca F. Kuang, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Babel and The Poppy War book trilogy

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 December 2023.

A Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office spokesperson gave a statement following the Hong Kong District Council elections on December 10.

In local elections yesterday, many voices from Hong Kong’s District Councils were excluded from participating. Meaningful opposition in Hong Kong’s electoral system is being eliminated.

We strongly urge the Hong Kong Government to uphold its international commitments and respect the civil rights and freedoms of Hong Kong citizens.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 December 2023.

At an FCDO stakeholder event to mark Human Rights Day and the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Lord Ahmad gave a statement.

Lord Ahmad opened his address by reflecting on the importance of this landmark anniversary, and how, 75 years ago, the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was a bold statement of intent and a formidable responsibility for the generations to follow.

The Minister quoted Martin Luther King Jr: ‘We are not makers of history, we are made by history’ – and reflected on the role the UDHR has played in protecting the vulnerable and cementing fundamental freedoms.

Lord Ahmad stressed that with the terrible challenges the world faces today – humanitarian crises, conflicts and more – we must carry the torch handed to us by those pioneers 75 years ago and do all we can to protect life and dignity.

Lord Ahmad discussed the global human rights landscape. On the deeply shocking recent events in Israel and Gaza, he raised the need to seek peace and a pathway to end this conflict, as well as avoid regional escalation. He also stressed the urgent need to ensure daily aid gets into Gaza as quickly as possible to tackle the humanitarian crisis, and noted that the UK has contributed another £30 million towards this.

Lord Ahmad also highlighted reports of appalling sexual violence committed by Hamas, and emphasised that reports must be fully investigated and documented, the perpetrators held accountable and survivors supported. He underlined the UK’s commitment to a viable Two-State Solution that must be delivered to provide peace, justice and security to Israelis and Palestinians alike.

On Russia’s illegal war of aggression in Ukraine, Lord Ahmad emphasised that the UK is determined to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice, and survivors of some of the most hideous abuses are supported. He explained how UK funding has helped deploy Mobile Justice Teams to the scenes of potential war crimes, trained more than 150 judges and delivered 30,000 forensic medical kits for police officers investigating conflict-related sexual violence.

Lord Ahmad also gave an overview of the UK’s work to champion thematic human rights, including chairing the first High-Level Meeting of the International alliance on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict, to hosting the Global Conference for the International Day for the Universal Access to Information and continuing to grow the International Religious Freedom of Belief Alliance, as we promote the right to freedom of religion or belief for all.

Lord Ahmad underscored the UK’s unwavering support for human rights defenders who find their lives and livelihoods at risk due to their courageous efforts and announced the UK’s renewed funding commitment to the Lifeline Embattled CSO Assistance Fund, to support civil society organisations and human rights defenders in crisis.

The Minister also highlighted the recently published International Development White Paper, which sets out the UK’s vision for supporting open societies, with accountable, effective and inclusive institutions around the world over the next seven years.

Lord Ahmad closed by repeating the importance of the universality of human rights and called on everyone to come together in a spirit of unity ensure that the promises of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights are fulfilled always and everywhere.