Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on cooperation with the EU.
The United Kingdom welcomes the EU's ongoing commitment to championing multilateralism, tackling global challenges and assisting the Security Council's work.
With multiple global crises threatening the foundations of international peace and security, cooperation between the EU and UN is more important now than ever.
Nowhere is this truer than in Ukraine.
Three years on from Russia's brutal invasion, the EU continues its critical role in supporting Ukraine and countering Russian aggression.
This includes its enhanced level of economic, humanitarian and military support to Ukraine, and willingness to further contribute to security guarantees.
The UK will continue to work closely with the EU to ensure a just and lasting peace in Ukraine that secures its sovereignty and security.
In the Western Balkans, the EU-facilitated Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue plays a vital role in normalising relations between Serbia and Kosovo, and EUFOR ALTHEA continues to help provide stability and security in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The UK continues to support the region's Euro-Atlantic aspirations as a driver for reform and economic growth.
Beyond Europe, the UK welcomes the EU's commitment to stabilisation in the Middle East, including its efforts toward securing a two-state solution, where Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace.
EUBAM Rafah is a vital third-party presence, allowing individuals to access urgent medical care.
The EU is also helping support an inclusive political transition and economic recovery in Syria, and we welcome its recent sanctions suspensions to this end.
The EU is a valued partner for UN efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. We are pleased it is among the co-hosts of April's Foreign Minister-level discussions in London, which will foster consensus on ending the conflict and improving humanitarian access.
We also welcome the EU's commitment of €60 million in new humanitarian aid in response to the recent eruption of conflict in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
President, the UK looks forward to continuing to build on the UN's ambitious and cooperative relationship with the EU to promote responsible multilateralism and to act as a force for good in the world.
