New york: The State of Qatar has emphasized that freedom of navigation in international waterways is a fundamental principle of international law, advocating for serious dialogue, adherence to international legal standards, and good neighborliness as core strategies to resolve crises and mitigate their severe impacts.
According to Qatar News Agency, this declaration was made by Her Excellency Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani, during a UN Security Council High-Level Open Debate on "The safety and protection of waterways in the maritime domain." Sheikha Alya highlighted the increasing threats to international waterways and navigation freedom, which are escalating beyond traditional challenges, and pose significant threats to international peace, security, and the economy, especially in crucial maritime corridors like the Strait of Hormuz.
Her Excellency underscored that freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle of international law as outlined in the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. She also stressed the significance of UN Security Council Resolution 552 of 1984, which acknowledges the Gulf region's critical role in international peace and security and its vital influence on global economic stability. The resolution urges all states to respect freedom of navigation in international waters and maritime routes, as well as the territorial integrity of states not engaged in hostilities.
Addressing developments in the Strait of Hormuz, Sheikha Alya emphasized the necessity of implementing UN Security Council Resolution 2817, proposed by the Kingdom of Bahrain on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and Jordan. This resolution condemns attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran on the territories of Qatar, GCC countries, and Jordan, labeling them as violations of international law and grave threats to international peace and security. It also reaffirms support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of GCC states and Jordan, condemning any actions or threats aimed at obstructing the Strait of Hormuz or disrupting international navigation.
Her Excellency further emphasized the importance of securing maritime routes, safeguarding freedom of navigation, and maintaining international trade according to international law to ensure regional stability and the continuity of global supply chains. She welcomed ongoing mediation efforts led by the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and other parties involved in mediation that contributed to a ceasefire between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, stressing the need for adherence to the ceasefire to facilitate dialogue and guarantee navigation freedom in the Strait of Hormuz.
In her concluding remarks, Sheikha Alya reiterated Qatar's unwavering support for diplomatic efforts and peaceful initiatives, emphasizing that serious dialogue, respect for international law, and good neighborliness are essential for resolving crises and avoiding their dangerous consequences. This approach is crucial for maintaining international peace and security and ensuring the safety and protection of maritime waterways, in line with international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions.