Tag: Press Release

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 18 November 2024.

Hazel Cameron, Head of the FCDO Human Rights Department, expresses the UK’s commitment to international law and its ironclad support for Ukraine.

Thank you very much Chairman. My name is Hazel Cameron, I am Head of the Human Rights Department in the Foreign Office in London. I am very pleased to be here.

We are deeply alarmed by the ongoing breaches in International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law being committed by Russian forces in Ukraine. As we are all aware in this room, there are reports from numerous credible international and local organisations documenting the scale of the atrocities, including indiscriminate attacks across Ukraine, the destruction of critical national infrastructure, including energy supply with the onset of winter, forced deportation of children and refusal to return those children, and a failure to protect basic human rights standards in Russian-occupied areas.

In the face of this, it’s easy to feel despondent, and I would like now to quote our Prime Minister Keir Starmer when he spoke at the UN General Assembly last week, when he said, ‘people talk about an age of polarisation, impunity and instability, and I fear a sense of fatalism has taken hold.’ However, ‘our task is to say: no. We won’t accept this slide into greater and greater conflict, instability and injustice’. Instead, we will do all we can to change it and to recommit to internationalism and to the rule of law. He then went on to evoke a number of situations, including the need to prevent regional war in the Middle East, the call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, he evoked the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, and above all he spoke of the need for the international community to stand together and to stand firm in condemning Russian aggression in Ukraine, and in upholding accountability.

Our support in the United Kingdom for Ukraine is ironclad. We will provide at least 100 million pounds in humanitarian aid in this financial year, bringing our total humanitarian contribution to 457 million pounds since the start of the invasion. We will continue to support the work of this organisation and the rest of the international architecture, including the International Criminal Court, the Council of Europe, United Nations and its specialist bodies, as well as brave human rights defenders, journalists and activists in Ukraine.

We will work with our community of lawyers in the UK, who bring expertise through the UK-US-EU cooperation in the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group, helping the Ukrainian Prosecutor General to ensure that justice is not only done, but is seen to be done. We remain resolute in supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty, protecting civilians and seeking justice for those affected by Russia’s ongoing violations.

Through our collective action and solidarity, we hope to achieve a just and lasting peace and uphold the principles of international law. Thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 18 November 2024.

The UK has announced further measures against Iran in response to its transfer of ballistic missiles to Russia, aiding its war in Ukraine. This follows the initial UK response and commitments outlined by the E3 (UK, France and Germany).

Iran’s national airline, Iran Air, is today subject to an asset freeze which will further restrict its direct, scheduled commercial air services to and from the UK, following financial sanctions imposed by the UK government.

As a state-owned airline, Iran Air, is sanctioned in response to the Government of Iran’s transfer of ballistic missiles to Russia, following commitments outlined by the E3 in September.

The UK is also announcing sanctions against the state-owned national shipping carrier of Iran, the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL), and the Russian cargo ship, PORT OLYA-3 (IMO 9481910). These measures include an asset freeze and shipping sanctions respectively, taken against both entities for their role in supporting the Iranian defence sector or transporting weapons to Russia for use on the battlefield in Ukraine.

Today’s announcement comes as the Prime Minister prepares to mark 1,000 days since Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine at the G20 tomorrow, and as the Foreign Secretary visits New York to chair the UN Security Council (UNSC).

The Foreign Secretary will address the UNSC and reiterate the UK’s ironclad commitment to Ukraine, and to securing a lasting peace in the Middle East.

In his meeting at the UN Security Council, Foreign Secretary David Lammy will say:

Iran’s attempts to undermine global security are dangerous and unacceptable.

Alongside our international partners, we were clear that any transfer of ballistic missiles from Iran to Russia would face a significant response.

That’s why today we are sanctioning Iran Air and the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines, in response to Iran’s deliveries of ballistic missiles to Russia.

We reiterate our call on Iran to cease its support for Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine which continues to bring devastation to the Ukrainian people. We will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.

These measures follow initial steps taken by the UK government on 10 September in response to Iran’s transfer of ballistic missiles to Russia, which included the cancellation of the UK’s bilateral air services arrangements with Iran.

The UK also amended the Iran sanctions regime to strengthen trade sanctions on Iran, targeting items that are used in the production of ballistic missiles, UAVs and other weaponry.

Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said:

This government stands firmly with the people of Ukraine and we have been clear that any support for Russia’s illegal war will not be tolerated.

We will continue to use every lever at our disposal to put pressure on Iran to end the transfer of ballistic missiles and bring an end to this needless destruction.

Today’s sanctions follow action taken previously, alongside international partners, whereby the UK sanctioned key Iranian and Russian individuals and organisations for their role in facilitating Iran’s military support to Russia, including Russian cargo ships that transporting military supplies from Iran to Russia.

To date, the UK has sanctioned more than 450 Iranian individuals and entities, including those that seek to use malign influence regionally and internationally. The UK has also sanctioned 2,100 individuals and entities under the Russia sanctions regime, with over 1,900 designated since the start of Putin’s full-scale invasion.

The UK is clear that Iran must stop supporting Putin’s unprovoked, premeditated and barbaric attack against a sovereign democratic state, and that we will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 18 November 2024.

Minister for the Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty will welcome elected leaders and ministers from across the 14 Overseas Territories to the Joint Ministerial Council.

• Growth, climate, security, governance, and transparency top of the agenda as the new UK government strengthens partnership with the UK Overseas Territories at annual Joint Ministerial Council meeting
• New UK government reaffirms commitment to defending Overseas Territories’ sovereignty, security, and right to self-determination
• Leaders will discuss ways to transform how the UK and Overseas Territories work together on shared challenges, within a respectful and sustainable constitutional partnership

The new UK government has committed to working more closely with the Overseas Territories to boost growth, tackle climate change, crack down on crime, boost good governance and improve financial transparency, as the leaders of the Overseas Territories meet with UK Ministers at the Joint Ministerial Council in London this week.

The event marks a key point in the new UK government’s relationship with the Overseas Territories, as the new government seeks a fresh approach based on closer working and mutual respect, to further strengthen bonds with the British family of Overseas Territories.

Minister for the Overseas Territories Stephen Doughty will welcome elected leaders, ministers, and representatives from the 14 Overseas Territories to listen to their ideas on how to transform the UK-Overseas Territories’ relationship to deliver greater security and prosperity, deliver high standards of governance and transparency, and address the dual climate and nature crises.

The UK’s enduring partnership with the Overseas Territories is highly valued by this government. Alongside our deep people to people ties and shared history, the Overseas Territories make strong economic contributions, oversee 94% of Britain’s unique species and key marine and land ecosystems, and extend Britain’s global presence in a range of strategically important regions. Many too are on the frontline of the impacts of climate change.

This week, Minister Doughty will also underline the UK’s unwavering commitment to defend the Overseas Territories and their sovereignty and rights, including to self-determination.

Minister for Europe, North America and Overseas Territories Stephen Doughty said:

The Overseas Territories are an invaluable part of the British family, and we are focussed on delivering on the issues that matter to them, including prosperity, climate change, infrastructure, and security – as well as working in partnership with them to ensure sustainable societies, good governance and transparency that deliver positive outcomes for all of us.

This new government is committed to further building our relationship with the Overseas Territories on the basis of mutual respect and inclusion, and I’m looking forward to continued working with leaders to transform how we deliver for all our people and bring our family closer together.

Delegates will attend meetings at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in London over the next four days, where the Minister will lead conversations with leaders and representatives on collective action to be taken on a range of key issues, including security, irregular migration, financial transparency, climate change, infrastructure and economic resilience.

Overseas Territories present at the meeting will include Anguilla, Ascension, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, the Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat, Pitcairn, the Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia, St Helena, Tristan da Cunha and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 18 November 2024.

The new British Ambassador to Guatemala, Juliana Correa, presented her credentials to President Bernardo Arevalo on 18 November 2024.

President Arevalo welcomed Ambassador Correa to Guatemala and expressed appreciation for the UK’s continued support and cooperation.  The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carlos Ramiro Martinez, was present in the event.

Ambassador Correa reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding partnership with Guatemala. She highlighted the shared goals of promoting sustainable development, fostering economic growth, and enhancing environmental protection and governance. She pledged continued investment in Central America biodiversity and climate resilience through the UK’s Biodiverse Landscapes Fund.

The UK has been a key partner for Guatemala in working to tackle climate change while promoting human rights and rural development.  Ambassador Correa looks forward to continuing strengthening those ties.

Ms Juliana Correa was appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Guatemala in April 2024 and arrived in the region in October this year. You can read her full biography here.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 18 November 2024.

Catherine West, the UK’s Minister for the Indo-Pacific visits India to reiterate the UK’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.

Climate, tech, health, education and development on the agenda as Catherine West, the UK’s Minister for the Indo-Pacific, visits India to reiterate the UK’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.

During her 2-day visit she will hold meetings with senior Indian ministers and officials and learn more about the unique living bridge both countries share.

Building upon the ambitions for the UK-India relationship set out by the Foreign Secretary in his visit in July, Minister West will continue to unlock the full potential of the UK-India partnership and drive forward greater growth for both countries.

Her visit will include a meeting at the Ministry of External Affairs in Delhi, where she will reinforce the UK’s commitment to a stronger partnership and the importance of the enduring links between our people.

She will also reiterate that the UK remains committed to negotiating a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement and Bilateral Investment Treaty.

Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West said:

I am delighted to be visiting India for the first time as Minister for the Indo-Pacific. As one of the fastest growing economies in the world, India is a vital partner.

My visit reaffirms the UK’s commitment to fostering deeper cooperation with India and to driving forward greater growth and prosperity for both our nations.

During an education roundtable at the British Council, the Minister will learn more about the unique “living bridge” between the UK and India, representing the 1.7 million people in the UK with Indian heritage and connecting our two countries across our culture, education, food, sport and more.

Further deepening this cultural understanding, the Minister will visit the Jama Masjid in Delhi, where she will learn about its history and architecture.

Her visit follows a 2-day visit to Bangladesh, where she reaffirmed UK support for the Interim Government’s work to build a more prosperous and democratic future for the country.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 17 November 2024.

The UK has announced an aid package for Sudan and neighbouring countries.

• UK announces a major aid increase of £113 million for people in Sudan and those who have fled to neighbouring countries
• Foreign Secretary will call for the Adre border crossing to remain open indefinitely and for immediate action to end the violence
• Draft UN Security Council resolution introduced to push for the protection of civilians and an unrestricted passage of aid.

Today [Sunday 17 November] the UK has announced an aid package which will support more than one million people affected by the devastating war in Sudan, providing vital aid for those in need.

The new £113 million aid package, which doubles the UK’s aid commitment to Sudan and the region this year, will assist over 600,000 people in Sudan and 700,000 people in neighbouring countries who have fled the conflict, including Chad and South Sudan.

During the Foreign Secretary’s visit to the United Nations Security Council tomorrow [Monday 18 November], he will call on the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) to keep the vital Adre border crossing open indefinitely and for the removal of restrictions, which have limited the amount of aid coming through it.  The Foreign Secretary will also call for the SAF and Rapid Support Forces to stop blocking aid convoys.

After 18 months of violent conflict, Sudan is facing the worst humanitarian crisis of the decade, with over 500,000 people in Darfur in famine conditions. Over 11 million people are displaced, 25 million are in desperate need of aid, and famine is likely to spread.

The new funding package announced today will support UN and NGO partners in providing food, cash, shelter, medical assistance, water and sanitation.

Not only is this aid vitally needed, but it will also help people to stay within their home region so they can return to their homes when conditions allow.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

The brutal conflict in Sudan has caused unimaginable suffering. The people of Sudan need more aid, which is why the UK is helping to provide much-needed food, shelter and education for the most vulnerable.

But we cannot deliver aid without access. Starvation must not be used as a weapon of war and we can only stop this famine if every border crossing and route is open, accessible and safe.

As the lead on Sudan in the UN Security Council, I will be using the UK’s Presidency on Monday to press for a resolution that ensures the protection of civilians and an unrestricted passage of aid.

The UK will never forget Sudan.

At the UN, the Foreign Secretary will bring together international partners to lead a discussion on steps to push the warring parties to remove obstacles to humanitarian access.

Humanitarian workers face significant challenges delivering aid to those most in need with instances of aid workers killed, access being blocked by the warring parties, and UN workers unable to move freely. The Adre border crossing re-opened in August and offers a vital lifeline to allow aid to be delivered from Chad into Darfur.

The Minister of State for Development Anneliese Dodds said:

During my visit to South Sudan in August, I saw first-hand the heart-breaking impact the violence is having on those fleeing the conflict.

The humanitarian crisis in Sudan is worsening. Famine and disease are spreading, and by next year, many more will be in desperate need of aid.

We have to prevent further suffering by acting now. Support announced today will reach over a million people, providing food for some of those most in need and will assist neighbouring countries to continue hosting refugees.

The UK has also introduced a new UN Security Council resolution which will pressure the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces to protect civilians, deliver a ceasefire and allow the safe passage of aid.

On 22 August, the UK Minister for Development, Anneliese Dodds, announced £15 million to support those fleeing violence in Sudan, including those displaced to South Sudan and Chad.

Background

• The conflict in Sudan began last April 2023 when violence erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Tensions between SAF General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti) had been escalating for months following disagreements on a transition to a civilian led government.
• On 18 October, the UK led a joint statement with 10 other donors, condemning the obstruction of aid and called upon the warring parties to comply with obligations under international humanitarian law.
• Funding announced today includes:
• £43.5 million for Sudan
• Funding will also include £69.5 million of support for people affected by the conflict in neighbouring countries including:
• Chad
• Sudan
• Uganda
• Education Cannot Wait will receive support to provide safe learning spaces and psychosocial support for 200,000 vulnerable children in refugee and host communities in Chad, Ethiopia, Libya, South Sudan, Central African Republic and Uganda.
• Libya