EU Explanation of Vote: United Nations General Assembly 2nd Committee: Resolution on International Tea Day

26.11.2019
New York

26 November 2019, New York – European Union Explanation of Vote delivered by Finland on behalf of the EU and its Member States at the 74th Session of the United Nations Second Committee, 25th meeting on the Resolution on International Tea Day

Mr. Chair,

 

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States.

The Candidate Countries the Republic of North Macedonia*, Montenegro*and Albania*, and the country of the Stabilisation and Association Process and potential candidate Bosnia and Herzegovina, align themselves with this statement.

 

Mr. Chair,

I would like to thank all delegations for their engagement in these negotiations.

We would like to reiterate that the formulation of "States Members and observers of the United Nations" is acceptable to the European Union and its Member States in the context of this specific resolution on the "International Tea Day". 

 

Mr. Chair,

Allow me now to explain why we have abstained on this resolution. As you know, the EU and its Member States have expressed their position on international proclamations numerous times. In our view, there are other more effective means to raise awareness for certain topics. As we aim to revitalize the Second Committee, it is important for all Member States in the Second Committee to limit the tabling of resolutions which proclaim International Days or years. Furthermore, the EU and its Member States would also like to stress the importance of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as the overarching document for our development work. We would call on all Member States to refrain from including national concepts in resolutions of the Second Committee and the General Assembly.

 

I thank you Mr. Chair.


* The Republic of North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Albania continue to be part of the Stabilisation and Association Process.