September 26, 2014 - New York City, United States
Check Against Delivery
This year, Europe’s security and transatlantic relations have shifted significantly following Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and its aggression in eastern Ukraine.
These actions threaten the Euro-Atlantic and Eurasian security system and are a direct challenge to the values and interests on which the OSCE and other institutions are based.
In a time of change and crisis like this, the unique value and role of the OSCE come into focus.
The OSCE’s approach to security allows it to be a platform for not only dialogue, but most importantly action—with an impressive range of conflict prevention and management tools.
But, as an organization that is devoted to advancing security through freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law, it is essential that the OSCE also take action to hold Russia to account for breaking its OSCE commitments.
Russia argues that the current crisis outlines the limits of European security architecture—and that, as a result, that architecture must be changed.
But Russia is the only country challenging that architecture through its reckless behaviour and false premises.
Ladies and gentlemen, we should not play along with the Kremlin’s zero-sum game approach to international relations.
We should instead remind Russia and others that security is not something earned on the back of the insecurity of others.
In the 21st century, borders cannot be redrawn by force, nor from some map instead in the Kremlin.
Those who attempt to do so will find themselves on the wrong side of history.
We commend the OSCE’s efforts to support security, democracy and institution building in a united Ukraine.
In exactly one month from today, Ukraine will hold crucial parliamentary elections.
Canada will be supporting the monitoring and observation of these elections.
The OSCE will have a key role and will hopefully support the efforts of the European Endowment for Democracy.
These efforts must be coordinated with those of other institutions to achieve their maximum effect.
The need to build and maintain close partnerships between European and Euro-Atlantic international organizations has never been so pressing.
We must send a firm message of unity and resolve, condemning Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
Russia’s aggressive militarism and lack of respect for its neighbours’ territorial integrity are completely unacceptable.
Canada will not stand idly by in the face of this destabilizing threat from Russia.
We will continue to engage with the OSCE to ensure the respect for common values and principles, at a time when they are challenged.
Thank you.
