National statement delivered by Ambassador Rytis Paulauskas, Permanent Representative of Lithuania to the United Nations at the Central Emergency Response Fund High Level Pledging Conference
National statement delivered by Ambassador Rytis Paulauskas, Permanent Representative of Lithuania to the United Nations at the Central Emergency Response Fund High Level Pledging Conference on Wednesday, 6 December 2023.
Secretary-General, Under-Secretary-General, excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
I am honored to represent Lithuania at the CERF Donor Conference and share our commitment to humanitarian efforts. Lithuania is proud to contribute 100,000 EUR to support the Central Emergency Response Fund, underlining our dedication to addressing urgent global challenges.
Our focus remains steadfast on the critical situation in Ukraine. The ongoing Russia’s aggression has resulted in dire humanitarian consequences, affecting innocent lives, and displacing countless individuals. Lithuania stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine, recognizing the urgency of providing essential aid in times of crisis. Our bilateral aid to Ukraine has now reached 1.4 percent of GDP.
In the face of continued Russian attacks against Ukraine’s civil and critical infrastructure, Lithuania continues its humanitarian and civil protection assistance to Ukraine, including equipment such as power generators and power transformers, to help Ukraine and its people face yet another winter at war. We welcome OCHA’s Winter Response Plan and preparedness efforts by humanitarian organizations.
Russia’s decision to terminate the Black Sea Grain Initiative and its attacks against Ukraine’s ports along the Black Sea and Danube are further exacerbating global market instability and risk creating long-term consequences for global food security. Russia’s systematic and deliberate targeting of Ukraine’s agricultural production and trade infrastructure are unacceptable.
Lithuania is an active participant in the EU’s Solidarity Lanes that have become a lifeline for global food security. Between March 2022 and November 2023, they have allowed Ukraine to export over 60 million tons of grain, oilseeds, and related products.
Our contribution aims to support CERF's vital role in delivering rapid and effective assistance where it is needed most. We encourage every UN member state to join in bolstering the Fund to ensure a swift and coordinated response to emergencies worldwide.
In the spirit of collective responsibility, Lithuania emphasizes the need for international cooperation to alleviate the suffering of those affected by conflict and crisis. Together, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable populations, offering hope and support during their darkest hours.
We call on all member states to work collaboratively through CERF to build a more resilient and compassionate world. We must ensure continued and effective work of the humanitarian system. This is a shared responsibility and Lithuania is proud to do its part.
