Delivered by H.E. Ambassador Lana Nusseibeh, Permanent Representative

Thank you, Mr. President,

I would also like to begin by thanking Assistant Secretary-General Navid Hanif for his briefing. We have also listened carefully to the other briefers today and take note of the information provided.

We are also deeply concerned by the severe damage to the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines. While the exact cause remains unknown, it appears that the damage has resulted from a deliberate act of sabotage. At a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and global turmoil, potential missteps and further escalation must be avoided. Now is the time to maintain calm and establish the facts regarding the cause of this damage through a transparent and comprehensive investigation.

Mr. President,

As the world continues to suffer the consequences of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, maintaining maritime and energy security around the world is fundamental to ensuring all of our stability and prosperity. Further volatility in energy markets will put increasing strain on communities around the world, particularly those in developing countries.

Furthermore, this incident has resulted in a grave environmental disaster with long-term repercussions not only to the Baltic Sea region, but to the world. While the full environmental cost is only now being assessed, it is likely to represent one of the worst greenhouse gas leaks ever recorded.

Mr. President,

The world faces severe environmental, economic, and energy challenges while on an already difficult path to recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The damage to such energy infrastructure and the resulting environmental and economic harm further exacerbates these challenges. We underline the critical importance of avoiding any steps that aggravate the fragile regional and global situation. All efforts must be made to ensure the facts are properly established and that no further incidents take place.

Thank you, Mr. President.