Tag: Foreign Office

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 26 June 2026.

The UK is releasing an initial £2 million in humanitarian funding to support the response to devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, including a deployment of specialist search and rescue personnel.

• UK deploying 68‑strong search and rescue team, including specialist dogs, to support life‑saving efforts in Venezuela
• £2 million UK humanitarian funding will support immediate response and coordination
• UK Emergency Medical Team (UK EMT) is also sending an advance team to assess urgent health needs and inform further UK medical support

The UK is releasing an initial £2 million in humanitarian funding to support the response to devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, including a deployment of specialist search and rescue personnel.

Supported by the Royal Air Force, the UK’s International Search and Rescue (UK ISAR) team of 68 personnel, including six specialist search dogs, departed today to assist efforts to locate and rescue people trapped in the wake of the earthquake.

The team set off from RAF Brize Norton on a Voyager aircraft, carrying specialist drones able to help assess structural collapses safely, identify hazards such as compromised roofs, and direct rescue teams. RAF personnel, including aircrew and logisticians, worked rapidly to prepare the aircraft and coordinate the deployment, helping deliver the much-needed support.

The flight also carries members of the UK’s humanitarian field team, including supply chain, humanitarian and security specialists, with further personnel joining in country to support the delivery and coordination of UK assistance.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

My thoughts are with the people of Venezuela following this week’s devastating earthquakes. The UK stands in solidarity with all those affected, particularly those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods.

We are making £2 million of emergency humanitarian funding available and are working closely with international partners to ensure vital support reaches those most in need as quickly as possible.

The deployment brings together firefighters and specialists from 14 UK Fire and Rescue Services across the UK, led by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service. The UK team is highly experienced and worked tirelessly on the ground in Türkiye and Morocco in 2023, helping to rescue survivors trapped under the rubble.

UK ISAR is part of the UK’s National Resilience capability and is on permanent standby to respond to disasters overseas. The team will work alongside local and international partners to support life-saving search and rescue operations.

Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper said:

The UK today has sent support to Venezuela following these devastating earthquakes.

Our specialist search and rescue teams are deploying to help save lives, and we are providing a £2 million package to support the humanitarian response.

We continue to work closely with international partners to ensure help reached those affected as fast as possible

FCDO funding ensures the UK ISAR team is trained, equipped and ready to deploy at short notice to support countries affected by natural disasters, helping to rescue those trapped, coordinate efforts on the ground and strengthen the wider international response.

Experts from the UK’s Emergency Medical Team are also travelling to Venezuela to determine how the UK can best help save lives in the crucial coming days and weeks as part of the FCDO‑funded response.

The UK EMT members are travelling to Venezuela to assess urgent health needs. Their analysis will inform any further UK medical deployment and support wider international coordination.

Minister for the Armed Forces Louise Sandher-Jones MP said:

Our Armed Forces have moved quickly to support the UK’s humanitarian response to the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, transporting specialist search and rescue personnel and equipment to assist life-saving efforts on the ground.

The RAF plays an important role in getting people and capabilities where they are needed most, and our Armed Forces stand ready to support humanitarian missions around the world alongside our international partners.

The UK’s £2 million package will support immediate life-saving activity and the wider international response. The UK works in partnership to rapidly respond to humanitarian disasters and is a major contributor to global emergency funds, including the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies’ Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) and the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), which underpin rapid multinational responses.

DREF has allocated funding for the Venezuelan Red Cross to deliver a fast and local response to by rapidly releasing funds to National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to carry out their role as first responders following a disaster. An allocation has also been made by the CERF and will provide immediate, life-saving humanitarian assistance to address the most urgent needs of people affected by the earthquakes.

Notes to editors

• The UK International Search and Rescue team (UKISAR) respond to disasters on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. UK ISAR is a partnership between the FCDO and UK Fire and Rescue Services, providing a 24/7 deployable search and rescue capability for international emergencies.
• The team is made up of firefighters and specialists from 14 Fire and Rescue Services across the UK and this deployment is led by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.
• UK‑Med is the delivery partner of the UK Emergency Medical Team (UK EMT), funded by the FCDO.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 26 June 2026.

UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on Venezuela. Delivered at the 62nd Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Thank you

We reaffirm our support to the Venezuelan people, who are in our thoughts following Wednesday’s devastating earthquakes and resulting casualties.

Mr Vice President,

We thank the High Commissioner for his recent report and the continued engagement of his Office in Venezuela.

Some encouraging measures have been implemented, including the release of political detainees and the announcement of reforms.

We also welcome recent dialogue between the Venezuelan authorities and representatives of the opposition, and encourage continued engagement to support progress towards a return to democratic norms.

These developments represent a positive step and have the potential to improve the human rights situation on the ground.

We hope that the coming months see continued progress on remaining challenges including restrictions on civic space, arbitrary detention and concerns around due process.

In this context, we reiterate our call on the Venezuelan authorities to release those who remain arbitrarily detained, to continue to strengthen the rule of law, and to ensure an environment in which civil society, media and political actors can operate freely and safely.

We also underline the importance of constructive cooperation with the Office of the High Commissioner and other international mechanisms, including by facilitating their full access, in support of accountability and sustainable reform.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 26 June 2026.

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Sudan.

The United Kingdom is deeply concerned by developments in and around El Obeid, and the immediate and escalating risks they pose to the civilian population.

I will make three points.

First, civilians must be protected and able to leave El Obeid, as called for by this Council on June 20.
The Rapid Support Forces must halt their assault, and civilians must be able to leave.

And all parties, including the Sudanese Armed Forces, should ensure that they are able to do so.

All parties must comply fully with their obligations under international law to protect civilians.

We are deeply concerned at the risk of large-scale atrocities.

Civilians face increasing constraints on movement, deteriorating access to essential services, and the threat of intensified violence, including from continued drone strikes and attacks on critical infrastructure.

As my Foreign Secretary has made clear, El Obeid is on the precipice of an atrocity that would deepen the wounds already inflicted on Sudan in El Fasher.

All parties must act now to prevent further harm to civilians.

Second, humanitarian actors need to be able to operate safely and without obstruction.

All parties must facilitate rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access, and provide the security guarantees needed for humanitarians to deliver lifesaving assistance.

Attacks on humanitarian personnel are unacceptable.

Without urgent action, those able to leave the city will not be able to access the aid they need.

And finally, this conflict cannot be resolved by military means.

Developments in El Obeid underscore the urgent need to halt the fighting and create space for a political pathway.

We support efforts towards a humanitarian truce as the most credible route to reducing harm and enabling progress.

We commend US leadership and Senior Advisor Boulos’s tireless efforts on this, as well as the work of the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General, Mr Haavisto, to support de-escalation.

External support continues to sustain this conflict. 

And we call on those fuelling the conflict to cease, and those with influence must exercise it now to avoid further bloodshed.

The suffering of the Sudanese people cannot continue.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 26 June 2026.

UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on Anti-Personnel Mines. Delivered at the 62nd Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Thank you, Chair.

Anti-personnel mines injure and kill long after conflicts have ended and continue to pose a threat to the full enjoyment of all human rights.

The Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention provides a key framework for addressing this issue. It bans the use, stockpiling, destruction and transfer of landmines and obligates their destruction. The Convention is one of the world’s most widely accepted treaties.

Strong national ownership and a whole of government approach are critical to implementing the Convention’s obligations. Mine action should be integrated into national development plans due to its potential to drive humanitarian and development outcomes – it saves lives, prevents injuries and is a vital enabler of SDGs in multiple contexts.

Through the UK’s Global Mine Action Programme, we expect to spend over £50m from April 2026 to March 2029. This will continue to fund demining and risk education, through partnerships, and technical support to mine affected states. Through this work we remain committed to innovative financing and support to Women and Girls.

The Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention’s Siem Reap Angkor Action plan provides a clear roadmap to face the threat of anti-personnel mines. The UK remains unwaveringly committed to the Convention – our support, its humanitarian purpose and its norms remain firm.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 26 June 2026.

Discussions focused on the UK’s support for the Lebanese Armed Forces and progress towards a durable ceasefire.

The Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), General Rodolphe Haykal, ended a two-day visit to the United Kingdom 24-26 June, his first official visit to the country. The visit provided an opportunity to further strengthen collaboration on shared priorities, including regional stability, border security, and institutional resilience.

During his visit, General Haykal held meetings with UK counterparts, including the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Sir Richard Knighton at the Ministry of Defence, and toured the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. He also met with Minister for the Middle East Hamish Falconer and UK National Security Adviser, Jonathan Powell. Discussions focused on the UK’s support for the Lebanese Armed Forces and progress towards a durable ceasefire, and the UK’s readiness to support LAF deployment to the south.

The UK continues to support the Lebanese Armed Forces as the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon. Since 2009, the UK has committed over £180 million to support Lebanon’s internal and border security, including £69 million to the Internal Security Forces and more than £120 million to the Lebanese Armed Forces in training, equipment, and capacity-building programmes.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 26 June 2026.

UK provides a voluntary report to the OSCE’s Human Dimension Committee on domestic efforts to tackle antisemitism.

Thank you, Madam Chair.

Could I express a belated thank you to today’s speakers for their insights on addressing intolerance and discrimination based on religion or belief. Forums such as this are essential for sharing practical experiences and strengthening our collective response. While this is not a new challenge, it is one that is particularly acute today. Regrettably, just last week, there was an appalling incident in Edinburgh, which appears to have been motivated by anti-Muslim hatred. All forms of religious and racial hatred are completely abhorrent and have no place in our society. No one should be targeted because of their faith or the colour of their skin.

Dear colleagues, I would like to use this opportunity to provide an update on the UK’s domestic efforts to tackle antisemitism. Across the OSCE region, we are witnessing a worrying rise in antisemitism, alongside other forms of hatred and intolerance. Recent attacks targeting Jewish individuals and institutions in the UK have underlined both the scale of the challenge and the urgency of action.

The UK Government treats antisemitism as a national challenge and a test of our values. It is recognised clearly as racism – anti‑Jewish hatred – and our approach is one of zero tolerance. We are using the full force of the state to protect Jewish communities and confront this hatred wherever it appears.

Our approach is guided by three priorities: protecting communities, enforcing the law, and addressing root causes.

First, on protection. The safety of Jewish communities is a core responsibility of the state. The UK has committed record levels of funding for protective security at Jewish schools, synagogues and community sites, including an additional package this year to strengthen local security, policing and preventative measures. We have increased visible police patrols, expanded specialist deployments, and invested further in counter‑terrorism capabilities. Our objective is that British Jews are not only safe, but feel safe.

Second, on enforcement and deterrence. Antisemitic abuse and violence are criminal acts. Those responsible will be held accountable in our courts. At the same time, we are strengthening powers to prevent extremist actors from spreading hatred – by restricting entry to the UK, tackling harmful online content, and addressing malign foreign state activity. Institutions are also being held to account: universities, public bodies, and publicly funded organisations are expected to act decisively and transparently to confront antisemitism.

Third, on prevention. We are addressing the drivers of antisemitism across society. This includes targeted work in schools, universities and public institutions, backed by dedicated funding for education and awareness on antisemitism. Holocaust education remains central, ensuring that future generations understand the consequences of hatred. We are also implementing a broader national cohesion and counter‑extremism approach, recognising that antisemitism must be tackled alongside other forms of extremist ideology.

These domestic measures are underpinned by our international commitments. The UK was the first country to adopt the IHRA working definition of antisemitism, and we support the Global Guidelines for Countering Antisemitism.

Earlier this year, our Foreign Secretary announced the appointment of Jon Pearce MP as the UK Special Envoy for Post-Holocaust Issues. His appointment not only demonstrates the UK’s continued leadership and dedication to Holocaust remembrance, education, and research, but also represents our unwavering commitment to the protection of the Jewish community in the UK and abroad, championing UK policy and supporting the fight against the scourge of antisemitism.

Colleagues, we must also address the external factors that fuel antisemitism. In an attempt to justify its illegal war of aggression against Ukraine, Russia has distorted Holocaust memory and misused historically loaded language. This cynical weaponisation of history dishonours the victims of the Holocaust, undermines truth, and contributes to a climate in which antisemitism can flourish. We strongly condemn it.

In conclusion, the UK is determined to confront antisemitism in all its forms. Antisemitism is not only a threat to Jewish communities; it is a threat to our societies as a whole. Addressing it is a shared responsibility.

Thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 25 June 2026.

Norwegian Ambassador Ellen Svendsen delivers a joint statement on behalf of six countries marking the 2026 International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.

Thank you, Mr Chair.

I am delivering this statement on behalf of Canada, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and my own country Norway.

On 19 June we marked the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. We pay tribute to survivors and to those around the world working tirelessly to prevent and respond to conflict-related sexual violence.

Mr Chair, the global picture remains deeply concerning. Recent UN reporting has shown a sharp rise in verified cases of conflict-related sexual violence, marked by increasing brutality which disproportionately affects women and girls, while continuing to impact men and boys.

Such violence is not incidental to conflict. It is used deliberately as a tactic of war, terror, and repression, with devastating consequences for individuals, communities, and long-term stability.

These trends are compounded by shrinking humanitarian access, reduced funding for survivor services, and persistent stigma that prevents reporting and denies justice. Escalating and protracted conflicts continue to create conditions in which the risks of sexual violence grow.

Mr Chair, in Ukraine, UN reporting, successive Moscow Mechanism reports, ODIHR Interim Reports and other independent monitoring continues to document conflict-related sexual violence linked to Russia’s ongoing aggression, including in detention settings where it has been used as a form of torture and ill-treatment. Survivors include women, men, and detainees subjected to serious abuses. These cases underscore the use of sexual violence to intimidate, punish, and extract information, and highlight the urgent need for accountability and survivor support.

Sexual violence in conflict is a violation of international humanitarian and human rights law, and a threat to international peace and security. It must stop. Perpetrators must be brought to justice. Survivors must be supported.

We emphasise the importance of a survivor-centred approach in all prevention and response efforts. This means placing the safety, dignity, rights and needs of survivors at the heart of action, ensuring access to justice, protection, and essential services, including psychosocial support.

Efforts to prevent and respond to conflict-related sexual violence should also fully address the needs of children affected, including child survivors, children born of such violence and those affected indirectly. Children experience conflict-related sexual violence in distinct ways, and responses must be child-sensitive, survivor-centred and integrated into existing systems. Addressing their needs is essential to breaking cycles of violence, stigma and exclusion.

Accountability is central. Without justice, there is no deterrence. Without accountability, cycles of violence continue. We must strengthen national and international mechanisms to investigate and prosecute these crimes, and ensure that survivors have access to redress and reparations.

The OSCE has a vital role to play. Its comprehensive approach to security, its field operations, and its autonomous institutions contribute to prevention, monitoring, and accountability efforts. The OSCE’s work on gender equality and on combating sexual and gender-based violence in armed conflict remains essential, and should continue to be prioritised by participating States.

Mr Chair, addressing conflict-related sexual violence must form part of broader international efforts: to uphold the Women, Peace and Security agenda; to tackle gender inequality and discrimination; and to ensure the meaningful participation of women in peace processes and decision-making at all levels.

As we mark this International Day, we reaffirm our collective responsibility. We must act together through multilateral cooperation to prevent these crimes, to support survivors, and to end impunity.

Thank you, Mr Chair.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 25 June 2026.

Deputy Ambassador James Ford underlines support for Montenegro’s Euro Atlantic path and progress in strengthening democratic institutions, and welcomes and the Mission’s work supporting the government’s national strategic objectives ahead of the transition to national ownership of functions by the end of 2027.

Thank you, Ambassador Haukaas, for your report, and for the work of your team over the last year.

The United Kingdom continues to strongly support Montenegro’s Euro Atlantic path. Montenegro is a valued partner and Ally of the UK. Its sustained commitment to regional stability, constructive diplomacy, and multilateral cooperation continues to make a positive contribution to security across the Western Balkans. We also welcome Montenegro’s principled stance in response to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.

The United Kingdom also welcomes the progress Montenegro has made in strengthening its democratic institutions and advancing reforms – particularly in strengthening the rule of law, enhancing judicial independence, and tackling corruption. We also value Montenegro’s openness to partnership and dialogue – including with civil society – critical to ensuring reforms are inclusive and enduring. The UK will continue to work with the government of Montenegro in support of these efforts.

In this context, we welcome the Mission’s work supporting the government’s national strategic objectives, in line with the Mission’s mandate and OSCE commitments and principles. The Mission’s priorities fit well with the UK’s own engagement supporting Montenegro’s reform agenda and broader regional stability.

We particularly support the Mission’s focus on: strengthening the functioning and transparency of Montenegro’s parliament; supporting the authorities in tackling serious and organised crime and corruption; and supporting media freedom and the safety of journalists. All these activities contribute to strengthening Montenegro’s democratic resilience, underlining the tangible value of the Mission’s work and its alignment with Montenegro’s reform priorities.

We see Montenegro’s request to transition to national ownership of OSCE functions by the end of 2027 as a positive reflection of the progress Montenegro has made in recent years, and a sign of the government’s commitment to driving forward and sustaining momentum on reforms. It is also an indication of the success of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, and the exemplary support it has provided, over the last 20 years. We look forward to engaging with the government, OSCE Mission, Secretariat and autonomous institutions to ensure a smooth and well-prepared transition to new forms of OSCE engagement with and support for Montenegro.

In closing, the United Kingdom reiterates its strong support for Montenegro’s reform trajectory. We wish the Mission every success in its work over the next 12 months.

Thank you, Mr Chair.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 25 June 2026.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper announces a new support package at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Gdańsk.

• New UK support for Ukraine’s recovery and energy security in the face of Putin’s war  
• UK continues to bear down on Kremlin having sanctioned over 3,400 Russia-linked targets, while supporting Ukraine’s long-term prosperity  
• UK’s total commitment to meeting Ukraine’s non-military needs now stands at £5.6 billion since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion

The Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, has announced a new package worth almost £290 million to bolster Ukraine’s recovery and energy security as she attends the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Gdańsk, Poland. 

Yvette Cooper will make clear the United Kingdom’s ironclad commitment to Ukraine not only in its ongoing battle in the face of Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion, but in ensuring it has the strength to rebuild for the future for the benefit of the UK and Ukraine. Ukraine’s security is vital to the UK’s own and supporting Ukraine today means a thriving partner for the UK in the future.

Today’s package will help strengthen Ukraine’s energy security through the signing of a £210 million deal for UK-based Urenco to provide nuclear fuel to Ukraine’s national power company Energoatom, to help Ukraine resist Russian attacks on critical energy infrastructure and keep the lights on. The deal will also boost the British economy, as Urenco employs more than 650 people in the UK and its Chester site supports more than 4,500 jobs around the UK in the wider supply chain. 

Funding will also support new schemes to modernise Ukraine’s justice system, to help build systems that hold the perpetrators of heinous war crimes to account, speed up court proceedings and tackle corruption to improve fairness and transparency.  

Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper said: 

“The UK stands firmly with Ukraine, not only in its fight for freedom today, but in ensuring it has the strength to rebuild for the future – that is essential for the long-term deterrence of Russian aggression. 

“A just and lasting peace is urgent and non-negotiable. But Ukraine needs long-term support both to get through the conflict and to rebuild in future. That is why at this year’s Ukraine Recovery Conference, we are announcing a multi-million pound package to power Ukraine’s homes and critical infrastructure, back its businesses and drive improvements in education and justice. 

“This crucial investment will ensure the UK is also in close partnership with Ukraine as they look towards future growth, involving British and Ukrainian businesses and delivering long-term benefits for both our economies.”    

Deputy Prime Minister, David Lammy said: 

“An enduring peace in Ukraine will not be secured through military support alone, but through our collective commitment to rebuilding communities, strengthening institutions and deepening joint action. 

“Ukraine’s battlefield victories must be bolstered by support to rebuild. The UK stands together with Ukraine as true partners for freedom – helping drive record investment, support recovery and ensure the Ukrainian people can look to the future with security and hope.” 

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said: 

“The UK stands shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine – and that means backing Ukraine’s recovery just as firmly as its defence. Today we are securing Ukraine’s energy supply, and helping to support Ukraine’s economy in the face of brutal Russian aggression.

“Ukraine’s security is our security, and our ironclad support will boost both our economies and give them the financial firepower to grow back stronger.”

British International Investment will also deliver up to £65 million for renewable energy and the banking sector in Ukraine, alongside the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The new investments will see the construction of two new wind farms and provide much-needed backing for Ukraine’s businesses through the Bank of Lviv.  

British companies will play a vital role in reconstruction projects across Ukraine, including the future modernisation of Lviv Airport as well as schools in Vinnytsia Oblast through the Project Development Programme, which is set to receive £1 million additional UK funding. 

The announcement comes as the UK continues to intensify pressure on those sustaining Putin’s illegal war, after the Prime Minister announced a major sanctions package targeting the vessels, finances and individuals enabling Russia’s aggression at the G7 last week. British forces also recently intercepted a Russian shadow fleet vessel in the Channel, in a significant blow to the Kremlin’s war effort.  

The UK’s support for Ukraine is reinforced by its close partnership with Poland, a vital security partner and a frontline state in Europe’s response to Russian aggression. Poland plays a crucial role in ensuring Ukraine gets the military and defence equipment it needs for the frontline, by processing 90% of allied-funded material before it crosses the border. Following the conference, the Foreign Secretary will visit the Miecznik frigate programme, where British and Polish defence industries are working together to strengthen Poland’s naval capabilities through a contract worth around £3 billion, supporting jobs and growth in both countries.   

The breakdown of bilateral assistance funding announced today includes: 

• Up to £13 million to support British International Investment’s intention to commit to the EU Flagship Fund; 
• Up to £12 million for a new governance programme, including:  
• Up to £2.4 million for an EU Anti-Corruption Initiative (EUACI); and 
• £1 million to support judicial reforms; 
• Up to £763,000 to continue support for Ukraine’s Green Transition Office. 

 Alongside the bilateral allocation, the UK will announce a series of measures to support Ukraine’s long-term economic growth. These include: 

• New British International Investment investments of up to £65 million, utilising existing UK ODA funding to co-finance projects that will expand lending to small and medium-sized enterprises through the Bank of Lviv and support the construction of two new wind farms; 
• Up to £200,000 to expand support for Ukraine’s critical minerals sector through British Geological Survey expertise to improve geological data, strengthen standards and attract investment; 
• Up to £1 million for the second year of the Project Development Programme, helping British companies participate in the early-stage planning of reconstruction projects across Ukraine. This builds on successful first-phase projects, including feasibility studies for the future expansion of Lviv Airport and the modernisation of schools in Vinnytsia Oblast; and 
• A new Memorandum of Understanding between UK Export Finance and Ukraine’s export credit agency to strengthen institutional capacity, share expertise and support the growth of Ukraine’s private sector and exports.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 25 June 2026.

Deputy Leader of the House of Lords Lord Collins spoke during the 56th regular session of the OAS general assembly in Panama City, Panama.

Secretary General, Assistant Secretary General, Ministers, Delegates, Friends.

On behalf of the United Kingdom, I would like to thank our hosts, Panama, for convening this Assembly.

The UK values its partnerships across the Americas – shaped by history and the many personal connections between our peoples today. This forum plays an important role in strengthening cooperation on the issues that affect us all and we will continue to contribute to solutions to shared problems in the constructive and respectful spirit on which the OAS was founded.

I will turn now to the topic of this discussion, the Falkland Islands.

The United Kingdom’s position has been clear and consistent for many years. The question of the Falkland Islands must be considered in light of the wishes of the people who live there. The Islanders have the right to determine their own political future, and they have expressed that choice clearly and democratically. With some tracing their roots back more than 10 generations, the Islanders have nowhere else they call home. Like many in the Americas, their ancestors journeyed to those Islands in past centuries to seek a better life, and shaped the Islands into the thriving and prosperous society they are today.

The people of the Falkland Islands have built a stable, self-governing community with strong democratic institutions. Their elected representatives take decisions on matters that affect their daily lives, reflecting the priorities and values of the local population. This is a community that is confident in its identity and clear about its future.

This principle is fundamental. The right of self-determination is a cornerstone of the international system and applies to all peoples. It is essential to maintaining the integrity and credibility of the rules-based international order.

Calls for discussions on sovereignty do not alter this reality. Any approach to this issue must respect the principle that the Islanders’ wishes come first. Without their consent, there can be no change to their status. Their wishes have been made clear – the 2013 referendum with a 99.8% vote on a 92% turnout to remain in the British family, and no subsequent election has questioned that decision. There can be no negotiation without the agreement and participation of the Falkland Islanders themselves.

The UK strongly supports the right of the Falkland Islanders to develop their natural resources for their own economic benefit. The decision to pursue hydrocarbon development was a democratic choice by the people of the Falkland Islands alone, and it is for the Falkland Islands Government to pursue production alongside the commercial companies involved. This is an integral part of the Islanders’ right of self- determination.

I would like to emphasise that UK forces in the South Atlantic are entirely defensive. We regularly review our force levels so that they are at the minimum level appropriate to ensure the defence of the Falkland Islands against any potential threat.

None of this changes the UK’s desire to maintain a respectful and fruitful bilateral relationship with Argentina; nor our commitment to constructive engagement in the South Atlantic. We will continue to support practical cooperation where it serves shared interests, including in areas such as environmental stewardship and sustainable economic activity.

Colleagues, this is ultimately a question of the foundational principles of the international system. A population has exercised its democratic rights and made its position known. Respecting that choice is both a legal obligation and a reflection of the values that underpin this Assembly.

The United Kingdom will continue to uphold that principle and encourages others to do the same.