On December 18, 2024, members of the Group of \"Friends for Peace\" convened their first meeting since the September Ministerial Gathering in New York, addressing the ongoing Ukraine crisis. Hosted at the level of Permanent Representatives to the UN, this assembly marked a significant step in the group's efforts to foster peace and stability.
The September Ministerial Meeting attracted broad, cross-regional participation, primarily from the Global South, highlighting a unified concern over the Ukraine conflict. The initiative garnered high interest from numerous UN member states, underlining the global desire for a peaceful resolution.
During the meeting, participants reaffirmed key principles from the joint communique, stressing the importance of respecting state sovereignty and territorial integrity. They emphasized the need to uphold peace, security, and prosperity, advocating for peaceful solutions to international conflicts as outlined by the Bandung principles.
The group reviewed the current situation in Ukraine, expressing concern over recent escalations. They underscored the necessity of adhering to de-escalation principles, such as avoiding the expansion of the battlefield and preventing the intensification of hostilities.
Calling for a comprehensive and lasting settlement, participants advocated for inclusive diplomacy and political means based on the UN Charter and international law, starting with a cessation of hostilities. They highlighted the role of the international community, especially the Global South and the UN, in supporting a peaceful and political solution to end the conflict.
Committed to continued engagement, the \"Friends for Peace\" group aims to actively pursue dialogue and constructive actions to resolve the Ukraine crisis, reinforcing their dedication to global peace and cooperation.
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Meeting of the Group of 'Friends for Peace' on the Ukraine crisis held
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