Remarks by H.E. Mr. Tofig F. Musayev Permanent Representative of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United Nations at the informal interactive dialogue of the General Assembly on “Preserving human dignity in armed conflict: Promoting compliance with international humanitarian law”
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Azərbaycan Respublikasının |
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Permanent Mission |
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Remarks by H.E. Mr. Tofig F. Musayev Permanent Representative of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United Nations at the informal interactive dialogue of the General Assembly on “Preserving human dignity in armed conflict: Promoting compliance with international humanitarian law” 28 January 2025 At the outset, I would like to thank the President of the General Assembly for convening this informal interactive dialogue, with the support of the International Committee of the Red Cross. Armed conflicts continue to be characterized by high levels of civilian death, injury and deliberate or indiscriminate targeting of civilian objects and essential civilian infrastructure. What is needed, first and foremost, is the political will to respect the rules and implement good practices, as well as to resolutely oppose impunity, prosecute perpetrators and ensure reparations for victims. Azerbaijan strongly condemns all violations of the laws and customs of war and underscores the critical importance of accountability for such violations. Azerbaijan has taken concrete steps to investigate and prosecute mass atrocities and other offenses committed by Armenia during its aggression in the early 1990s and the subsequent occupation of the territories of my country for almost thirty years. The denial and ignorance of serious violations, coupled with attempts to discredit and thereby obstruct justice through disinformation and smear campaigns in the media, parliaments and international bodies, constitute a clear contempt for international law and the rule of law. Accountability and redress are essential to ensure the rights of the victims, prevent the recurrence of violations and adopt a longer-term approach towards shaping a more peaceful, just and inclusive future. Against this background, it is regrettable that the representative of Armenia made a statement that is in flat contradiction with the facts and the ongoing efforts to promote peace and security in our region. Azerbaijan will continue its efforts to further promote and advance international humanitarian law and effectively combat impunity for serious violations of international law. |
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