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I would like to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary General Nicholas Haysom for his first briefing to the Security Council on the situation in Afghanistan. I extend my delegation’s congratulations to you on assuming the post. We wish you and all UN family on the ground all the success and determination in ensuring continuous support to Afghanistan. I thank UNODC Executive Director Yury Fedotov for his briefing. Lithuania aligns itself with the statement to be made on behalf of the EU. Mr. President, Just a few days away, Afghanistan is to turn another page in its history. On 1 January 2015 the responsibility for security in their country will be solely in the hands of Afghans. It is time now to quickly capitalize on the gains made during the last 13 year and advance in tackling the ongoing challenges, be it in political, peace and security, human rights, or economic realms. Robust visionary leadership by President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Abdullah Abdullah will be essential. Lithuania – a partner of Afghanistan for almost 10 years – was happy to see the reform package presented by the National Unity Government at the London Conference which lays a firm foundation for the development of the country during the transformation decade. We encourage the two leaders to proceed with prompt appointment and confirmation of senior government officials. A strong and truly united government is needed to meet the formidable challenges lying ahead.

The economic situation, corruption, and growing levels of opium production in Afghanistan remain of grave concern. They challenge the efforts aimed at strengthening stability and spurring development in the country. We welcome President Ghani’s initial steps, including investigation into Kabul Bank fraud case, which show his determination in advancing the rule of law.

Immediate actions by the Government are needed to promote legal livelihood and strengthen social, economic and political fabric of Afghanistan, including passing a credible budget, implementing measures to increase revenue, pursue specific reforms to improve conditions for private sector investment.

Mr. President,

The last few weeks once again have been marked by murderous attacks all over the Afghan state, killing both Afghan soldiers and civilians, including in an attack in Kabul against Institut Français d’Afghanistan and Isteqlel High school. We condemn in the strongest terms these brutal attacks against Afghan population, including children. We offer our deepest condolences and sympathy to all families of the victims, and wish a speedy recovery to those injured. The anti-government elements attacking civilians with improvised explosive devices and on ground engagements, including by small arms fire, carrying out suicide and complex attacks, must not be allowed to escape responsibility under international humanitarian law. All perpetrators of such acts of violence must be brought to account.

We commend the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) for demonstrated strong willingness to respond to the challenge of anti-Government elements. Continued international support and commitments are necessary to assure that their capabilities are sustainable. As NATO ISAF mission winds down, we welcome the recent ratification of both BSA and NATO SOFA agreements, which form a legal basis for the security assistance after 2014 to Afghanistan, and the adoption of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2189 (2014) on December 12. The latter is a significant support to Afghanistan and the post-2014 allies’ engagements in Afghanistan. My delegation thanks Australia for leading in the negotiating process of this resolution.

Lithuania supports and remains committed to the new NATO-led non-combat Resolute Support Mission (RSM). Our contribution to the RSM will be one of the major commitments of our country to the Alliance in 2015. My Government had already confirmed 0.5 mln. USD contribution to ANA trust fund for 2015 according to the financial pledges for 2015-2017. Lithuania’s contribution also includes national experts at EUPOL and UNAMA missions. We believe it important that UNAMA takes into consideration the consequences of ISAF withdrawal from the provincial centres and the changing security environment. We expect that the safety of personnel will be assured in the new circumstances.

A strong security sector alone does not guarantee lasting peace and prosperity. President Ghani’s emphasis and prioritisation on Afghan-owned and Afghan -led reconciliation process is a welcome and much needed step. The full inclusiveness of the processes, men, women, youth, civil society, minorities,- is key for reconciliation to succeed.

Women’s meaningful participation in the political and peace processes in Afghanistan needs to be ensured. My delegation welcomes the outcome of the Provincial Council elections where 21 per cent of seats were won by female candidates. President Ghani’s and Chief Executive Officer Abdullah’s meetings with women civil society representatives are a positive step towards women’s greater inclusion in the country‘s social, political and economic life.

During her visit to Afghanistan, the Special Rapporteur Rashida Manjoo noted with appreciation the presence of the political will in the promotion and protection of women‘s rights. Lithuania welcomes the launch of the first gender-based Violence Treatment Protocol for healthcare providers as well as training planned for medical personnel on survivor-centered care in Afghanistan.

Despite these positive trends, deadly attacks such as the one against women’s rights activist Shukria Barakzai, prove that there is still a long way to go until women become truly free and secure to exercise their human and civil rights. Violence against women remains a major source of concern. Comprehensive and coherent data collection, as well as effective implementation of laws and adequate resources to support women shelters as a protective remedy must be ensured without any further delay.

To conclude, Mr. President, a positive engagement of regional partners of Afghanistan bilaterally and by way of regional initiatives such as Istanbul Process is crucial for building a stable and peaceful Afghanistan. We welcome President Ghani’s emphasis on regional cooperation. Continuous support by the international community through UNAMA efforts remains essential for Transformation Decade to bring a better life for each and every Afghan citizen.

I thank you.