Statement by H.E. Ambassador Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Türkiye to the United Nations

Agenda item 124: Strengthening of the United Nations system: draft resolution (A/76/L.52)
Statement after adoption
26 April 2022

Mr. President,

The General Assembly is the only fully universal and therefore most representative organ of the United Nations.

As the very embodiment and soul of multilateralism, this chamber has priority and power over all other organs of the United Nations. Namely, under article 15 of the Charter, all the organs of the UN are mandated to submit reports to the General Assembly for its consideration.

And, according to Article 24 of the UN Charter, the Security Council acts on behalf of the Member States which together compose the General Assembly.

The Member States “confer on the Security Council primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security.”

Unfortunately however, on many occasions, we have seen the Security Council fail in carrying out its mandate.

It could not provide timely and adequate responses to crises.

It could not maintain international peace and security.

As we all know, the veto power is the very reason for the frequent paralysis witnessed in the Security Council.

It is not uncommon to see the permanent members exercise veto to pursue their self-interests.

And most of the time, the use of veto has far-reaching consequences that can lead to or deepen humanitarian crises and give rise to risks to the security and safety of the entire humanity.

Mr. President,

Today, we, the Member States, have adopted a historic resolution.

As of this day, the General Assembly has one more tool to address the matters pertaining to international peace and security.

This is an important step to enhance the role of this vital organ in accordance with its mandate in the UN Charter.

Likewise, this is an important step to make the Security Council more accountable and efficient.

Türkiye is proud to have been in the core group that led this initiative since its inception two years ago.

We will continue to work with other Member States to realize the promise of the UN Charter.

Thank you.