OSCE chair stresses vital UN partnership for Euro-Atlantic stability

The chairperson-in-office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen, has underscored the critical importance of the UN-OSCE partnership for maintaining peace and stability. Addressing the UN Security Council on Monday, Valtonen stated that this collaboration is "essential for peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic region and beyond," highlighting decades of shared principles and goals.

Condemning Russia's war and upholding principles

Valtonen directly condemned Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine, labeling it "the largest and longest war in Europe since the Second World War" and a clear violation of both the UN Charter and the foundational Helsinki Final Act of 1975. She argued that the OSCE, founded on principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and human rights, has acted as a guardian of these norms and that holding states accountable for violations has been central to the organization's recent work.

Call for support to Ukraine and regional mediation efforts

The OSCE chair called on all nations to "support Ukraine in achieving a just and lasting peace as soon as possible." Beyond the Ukraine conflict, she pointed to the OSCE's active role in peace mediation in other regions, including Moldova, the South Caucasus, and Southeastern Europe. She noted the interconnectedness of global security, emphasizing strengthened ties with partners beyond the Euro-Atlantic area, such as in the Indo-Pacific region.

Advocating for multilateralism and international law

Valtonen championed a rules-based international order, asserting that "multilateral cooperation based on international law can and must be the bedrock for international peace and security." She argued that while the UN Security Council holds primary responsibility, regional organizations like the OSCE can significantly amplify its impact, creating a layered and more effective system for conflict prevention and resolution.