I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of Latvia.
I thank SRSG Anita Kiki Gbeho, African Union High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea H.E. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete and Mr. Murithi Mutiga for their valuable briefings.
I would also like to welcome the presence of the representatives of South Sudan and South Africa.
We meet today as South Sudan approaches elections planned for December. Serious uncertainties remain about the political transition and security conditions.
Our greatest concern is that unresolved tensions could lead to renewed violence, with devastating consequences for civilians.
While the primary responsibility rests with South Sudan's leaders, the United Nations, this Council and regional partners all have important roles to play in preventing such an outcome.
Let me make three points.
First, South Sudanese leaders must demonstrate the political will to prevent further violence.
Latvia remains deeply concerned by continued hostilities, the lack of progress on critical transitional commitments and unilateral changes to the political framework, including the dissolution of the transitional government in September.
The Revitalized Peace Agreement must remain the foundation of the political transition. Decisions affecting its implementation must be based on consensus among the parties, not imposed unilaterally.
We call on the parties to uphold the Permanent Ceasefire. All parties to the conflict must fully comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law. Civilians must be protected, and those responsible for violations must be held accountable.
South Sudanese leaders must engage in genuine, inclusive political dialogue to build consensus on the way forward. This requires protecting civic and political space, ensuring the full, equal and meaningful participation of women and youth, and releasing Dr. Riek Machar and all other political detainees.
Second, UNMISS must be equipped to protect civilians, and this Council must support its ability to deliver.
Latvia reaffirms its strong support for UNMISS and commends the dedication and courage of its peacekeepers and civilian personnel, who continue to operate under increasingly difficult and dangerous conditions.
As highlighted during today's joint media stakeout on climate, peace and security, climate-related shocks are aggravating South Sudan's fragile security and humanitarian situation. Anticipatory action and community-based conflict prevention are essential to reducing these risks.
We commend UNMISS for its contribution to local mediation and efforts to strengthen community resilience. In the critical months ahead, UNMISS must have the capabilities needed to anticipate and respond to emerging threats.
The SG's recent military and police capability study highlights serious operational challenges resulting from reductions in personnel and resources. We support leveraging modern technology to strengthen early warning, civilian protection and the safety and security of peacekeepers. Technology, however, cannot substitute for adequate personnel and operational capabilities.
We also call on the Government of South Sudan to ensure UNMISS's full freedom of movement throughout South Sudan, in accordance with the Status of Forces Agreement.
Third, strong regional leadership is essential to preventing further escalation.
Latvia firmly supports the diplomatic efforts of the African Union and IGAD. Regional partners must remain at the forefront of these efforts, with the United Nations and this Council supporting their leadership wherever possible.
We welcome the proposal for a joint AU–IGAD–UN taskforce to strengthen coordination and preventive diplomacy. Ultimately, these efforts must deliver tangible results: reduced tensions, renewed political dialogue and, above all, the prevention of further violence against civilians.
Our responsibilities may differ, but our objective must be shared: to prevent another cycle of violence and protect the people of South Sudan.
Thank you!
I now resume my functions as President of the Council.