European External Action Service

02/20/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/21/2024 04:36

EU Statement on the occasion of the CTBTO resumed 61st Session of the Preparatory Commission, as delivered on 20 February 2024

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EU Statement on the occasion of the CTBTO resumed 61st Session of the Preparatory Commission, as delivered on 20 February 2024

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union. The following countries align themselves with this statement: North Macedonia*, Montenegro*, Albania*, Ukraine, Republic of Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina*, Iceland+, Norway+ and San Marino.

Chair,

The EU wishes to congratulate you and the Bureau on the assumption of your duties as Chair and Vice-Chairs of the Preparatory Commission and assure you of our full support and cooperation.

We also take note of the Executive Secretary's recommendations on the appointment of a Director for a period of three years, and the re-appointment of three Directors for a period of two years, at the Provisional Technical Secretariat (PTS).

In this regard, the EU expresses its disappointment that one recommendation relates to a State Signatory which is carrying out a full-scale invasion in another State Signatory. The EU position on Russia's unprovoked and unjustified invasion in Ukraine is well known, and has been stated during regular Sessions of the Preparatory Commission.Russia must immediately cease its war of aggression, unconditionally withdraw all its forces and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine and fully respect Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders.

In conclusion Chair, the EU stresses the need for all senior level officials to carry out their duties solely in the interest of the CTBTO and its membership as a whole.

Thank you.

*Candidate Countries North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina continue to be part of the Stabilisation and Association Process.

+Iceland and Norway are a members of the EFTA and of the European Economic Area.