Page:United Nations Security Council Meeting Record 2933.pdf/41

JSM/pt 53 The President: I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of Romania.

Romania pledged its full support for 660 (1990). In the same spirit, my country is fully in favour of the draft resolution contained in document S/21441.

The Romanian Government has expressed its deep concern from the very beginning over the armed conflict between Iraq and Kuwait, countries which are situated in an area that for a long period of time has known war, confrontation and tension.

In our opinion, no reason can justify the use of force against an independent and sovereign State. The Charter of the United Nations and the unanimously accepted principles of international law prohibit the use of force as a means of settling disputes between States. It is obvious that the penetration of Iraqi troops into Kuwait, in violation of the unanimously accepted principles of international law, has exacerbated the situation in the area, endangered international peace and security, and brought about losses in human life and suffering for the people of the two countries.

My Government reiterates its stand that the only way to settle disputes and iron out misunderstandings among States lies in negotiations and in resorting to the procedures provided by the Charter of the United Nations.

Romania calls again for the withdrawal without delay of the Iraqi military forces beyond the internationally recognized boundaries between the two countries and for the restoration of the legitimate Government of Kuwait.

It is also our conviction that, under the given circumstances, it is necessary for all States to display moderation and responsibility and to undertake nothing which may further aggravate the situation.

I now resume my function as President of the Council.