Thank you, Mr. President.

I would like to thank Secretary General for his comprehensive briefing.

As we gather today, we confront the grim reality of the ongoing war, now heading towards its fourth year.

This conflict has inflicted profound suffering on millions in Ukraine and beyond.

Unfortunately, since the beginning of the war each day has taken us further from peace.

After almost three years of hostilities, hopes for an end to the conflict is low.

Besides, risk of an uncontrolled escalation is still a fact.

Escalation poses a threat not only to Europe but to global stability.

The international community has so far tried to end the war primarily through coercive measures, but unfortunately these methods have yet to deliver.

Whereas, the UN Charter mandates peaceful resolutions to disputes; thus, we must advocate for a just peace rooted in international law.

We must reaffirm our commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Security Council can bring its influence to bear to encourage the sides back to the negotiating table.

Ultimately, a just peace can only be achieved through direct dialogue and mutual understanding.

This basic principle has shaped our approach to the conflict since its outset.

We maintain our position that diplomatic efforts and dialogue should constitute the focus of our endeavours to end the war.

We continue to stand in full solidarity with the Crimean Tatar Turks in supporting their efforts to claim their rights.

Mr. President,

Above all, we must prevent at all costs the emergence a new geopolitical fault line that will run through Ukraine and trigger a long-term global confrontation.

It remains important to encourage the sides to consider revitalizing the diplomatic track despite the current circumstances.

Mr. President,

As you all know, some Turkish initiatives in cooperation with the UN yielded important results, such as the Black Sea Grain Initiative, exchange of prisoners, capturing sea mines, and some are still pending. But we do not give up trying.

Thank you.