UNSC briefing on Ukraine (Biological)

[Friday, 18 March 2022; 1000 hrs]

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Mr. President,

I thank USG Nakamitsu for her briefing. We have carefully noted the points made by USG regarding biological activities relating to Ukraine.

India attaches high importance to the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC) as a key global and non- discriminatory disarmament Convention, prohibiting an entire category of weapons of mass destruction.

It is important to ensure full and effective implementation of the BTWC in letter and spirit.

We also believe that any matter relating to obligations under the BTWC should be addressed as per the provisions of the Convention and through consultations and cooperation between the parties concerned.

As outlined yesterday, India remains deeply concerned at the progressively deteriorating situation in Ukraine.

We welcome the latest round of diplomatic talks between the Russian Federation and Ukraine.

We believe that immediate cessation of hostilities and diligently pursuing the path of dialogue and diplomacy is the only way forward.

It is important to undertake this engagement keeping in mind the need to respect the principles of the UN Charter, international law and sovereignty and territorial integrity of States. I thank you Mr. President.