DPRK Chapter VII Resolution: Explanation of Vote

Thank you, Madam President.

Kenya has voted for the adoption of this resolution. The Security Council has been clear in its resolutions, but, unfortunately, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea has chosen to not comply.

Instead, the missile launches by the DPRK, particularly in the last 5 months, have seriously harmed the stability of the Korean Peninsula. Added to the launches, one of which undermined the territorial integrity of a Member State, are statements issued about the swift development and use of nuclear weapons.

What we have learnt in the last few months is that actions that undermine international peace and security concern not only the immediate countries but even the most distant ones. Today, we are suffering from rapidly rising food and energy costs as a result of a conflict that is far from our borders.

The undermining of the security and stability of the Korean Peninsula risks escalating into a crisis that leads to serious harm to a region with important trading and investment linkages with Africa. At a time when Africa's development is critical to our own peace, security and stability.

We therefore appeal to the DPRK to put a stop to the present posture and to seek dialogue that leads to a lasting solution.

We also regret the present policy of protracted sanctions that continue to cause extensive suffering and maldevelopment in the DPRK.

Madam President, we appreciate the willingness of some delegations to seek a statement by the President of the Security Council which would have demanded consensus among its members. While we encourage consensus and unity, these must also be robust enough to send a clear signal about the importance of halting any further undermining of the stability of the Korean Peninsula.

We believe that the diplomatic avenues available to the stakeholders in the immediate security situation should be used with more determination to find compromises.

Lacking the willingness to compromise in negotiation, we will remain trapped in the risky ground between provocation and blockade.

Instead, we encourage all relevant parties to undertake trust-building initiatives. The missile launches should cease and there should be a review of the sanctions against the DPRK, which have had adverse effects on civilians.

Finally, Madam President, Kenya reaffirms its long-standing commitment to nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and a world free of nuclear weapons.

Thank you