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