Madam President,
Italy aligns itself with the statements that will be delivered by the European Union and would like to add a few remarks in a national capacity.
The importance that the United States traditionally attaches to this dossier, which is a priority for us too, is highly appreciated. We therefore thank the Presidency for convening today’s meeting to discuss and report the risk of conflict-induced famine and widespread food insecurity. This risk is unfortunately the current and glooming picture in too many Countries.
Today, this topic is more urgent and alarming than ever before. We deeply regret the decision taken by the Russian Federation to oppose the renewal of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, a “beacon of hope” for many Countries in Africa and elsewhere.
We reiterate our call on Russia to rejoin the initiative, to stop using food as a weapon and to cease the illegal blockage of Ukrainian sea ports. We will continue to support all efforts towards the resumption of this key initiative.
Italy once again stresses the importance of UN Security Council Resolution 2417 and its unanimous adoption only 5 years ago. We have all the tools to safeguard civilians at risk. We just need to take political commitment and action.
Madame President, the respect of International Humanitarian Law is not an option. Humanitarian personnel should travel safely under any circumstance, in particular when food supply and distribution are at stake. The use of starvation as a method of warfare is explicitly prohibited by International Law. Too many seem to forget.
Italy remains devoted to addressing global food insecurity, also as the host country of the United Nations food agencies. Last week, the Italian Government organized in Rome the UN Food Security Summit Stocktaking Moment to assess the results of the efforts made so far. The very intense three-days of work proposed concrete, innovative and inclusive solutions to address the challenges we are facing today. The linkages between food security, climate and security were thoroughly addressed.
Following all the discussions and the engagement we just renewed in Rome, food security will also be high on the agenda of the Italian G7 Presidency next year.
Italy urges the international community to redouble its efforts and take decisive action to address the pressing challenges of food insecurity, protect essential services and create a safer and more dignified future for all civilians affected by conflicts worldwide.
I thank you Madam President.
