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02.04.2026 Danish Statement for briefing on the cooperation between the United Nations and GCC

Who Deputy Permanent Representative, Ambassador Sandra Jensen Landi
Who Deputy Permanent Representative, Ambassador Sandra Jensen Landi
When 02.04.2026

- Checked against delivery -

 

Thank you, Mr. President,

 

Allow me to start by congratulating you and the Kingdom of Bahrain for taking up the presidency of the Council for April.  And I would also like to thank the United States for a very successful presidency during March.

 

Let me also thank ASG Khiari and the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Jasem Al-Budaiwi, for their briefings.

 

Foreign Minister Al Zayani, thank you for your presence here today. Through you, let me also commend the members of the GCC for their active contribution to the maintenance of international peace and security.

 

Denmark also welcomes the Council agreement on the Presidential Statement and commends Bahrain for its efforts on this timely initiative.

 

Mr. President,

 

We meet today in the shadow of a regional escalation of major proportions. One which demands the continued attention of this Council, and also calls for the close cooperation between the UN and the GCC.

 

We are deeply concerned by the continued escalation of the situation in the Middle East. Over the past month, we have seen a large number of countries in the Gulf being drawn into a conflict not of their making. This has profound and grave implications, not only for the people across the region, but for international peace and security.

 

We reiterate our call for the protection of civilians and full respect for international law, including international humanitarian law.

 

Let me recall Denmark’s strong condemnation of Iran’s continuous attacks on the countries in the region. We stand in full solidarity with the GCC and other countries concerned. As these attacks continue, we are witnessing grave consequences for the region and beyond – including for the global economy.

 

We welcome the Secretary-General’s recent appointment of Jean Arnault as personal envoy and the establishment of a dedicated Task Force to develop and propose technical mechanisms in the Strait of Hormuz to meet humanitarian needs. Denmark hopes that this could be an important confidence-building measure in the region.

 

Mr. President,

 

The GCC is an important and valuable partner in the region. One that has consistently used its voice to call for de-escalation and good neighbourhood relations.

 

We welcome the active and constructive role of the GCC in advancing regional stability. In this regard, we welcome the adoption of Resolution 2817 and call for its full and swift implementation.

 

Denmark stresses the importance of safeguarding maritime routes, and freedom of navigation in accordance with international law, as well as the safety and security of supply chains, shipping, seafarers and the stability of global energy markets.

 

The Strait of Hormuz must be reopened immediately. The current situation is unacceptable and the repercussions risk spinning out of control.

 

To this end, we are engaging actively in the negotiations on the draft resolution led by Bahrain to ensure a strong message from a united Council.

 

Mr. President, in closing,

 

A close partnership between the UN and GCC is vital to advance regional stability. We look forward to the continued cooperation in pursuit of lasting peace and prosperity for the region and beyond.

 

I thank you.