Statement of Latvia at the UNGA72

WMDs: “Latvia is deeply worried about the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the threat of the use of nuclear weapons.”

DPRK: “North Korea's actions have increased global insecurity. Latvia strongly condemns all nuclear tests and launches of ballistic missiles conducted by North Korea, and its continuous provocative rhetoric. We call on North Korea to return to a credible and meaningful dialogue with the international community and to refrain from any further action that would increase regional tensions.”

Chemical Weapons: “The use of chemical weapons in Syria, which blatantly disregards Syria's obligations as a party to the Chemical Weapons Convention, is a deplorable crime which must be fully investigated, and the perpetrators must be held accountable. Latvia has constantly called for accountability regarding these attacks, an accountability which is closely linked to the credibility of the whole international system. For this reason, Latvia has supported the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism to assist the investigation and prosecution of serious crimes committed in Syria.”

Conflict Prevention: “Far too often the United Nations has been unable to prevent conflicts, stop atrocities, or build peace. Too often resources are spent on managing and responding to crises, instead of preventing them. [...] Conflict prevention must be at the core of UN action to keep situations of concern from spiraling out of control. Saving human lives and upholding human dignity must be our common priority.”

Syria: “The use of chemical weapons in Syria, which blatantly disregards Syria's obligations as a party to the Chemical Weapons Convention, is a deplorable crime which must be fully investigated, and the perpetrators must be held accountable. Latvia has constantly called for accountability regarding these attacks, an accountability which is closely linked to the credibility of the whole international system. For this reason, Latvia has supported the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism to assist the investigation and prosecution of serious crimes committed in Syria.”

Ukraine: “the peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine and respecting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity is a priority. Russia's continued aggression in Eastern Ukraine and the illegal annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol cannot become ‘business as usual’.”

SDG5: “In strengthening the capacities of our partner countries, we prioritize good governance and public sector reforms, combating corruption, and fostering inclusive economic growth, including by empowering women.”