STATEMENT : 320th MEETING OF THE COMMITTEE ON RELATIONS WITH THE HOST COUNTRY

STATEMENT BY

MR. AHMAD GHAZALI MUHAMAD NADZRI

COUNSELLOR

PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS

IN RELATION TO THE LETTER DATED 29 AUGUST 2025 FROM THE PERMANENT OBSERVER OF THE STATE OF PALESTINE TO THE UNITED NATIONS ADDRESSED TO THE CHAIR OF THE COMMITTEE ON RELATIONS WITH THE HOST COUNTRY

Madam Chair,

1.         My delegation wishes to recall the importance of ensuring full and unhindered participation of all Member States and Observers in the work of the United Nations. This principle lies at the heart of the Organization’s universality and legitimacy.

2.         The legal framework governing this matter is well established. Under the Headquarters Agreement of 1947 between the United Nations and the host country, the host state is obligated to facilitate the entry of representatives of Members and Observers to attend the meetings and activities of the Organization, regardless of the state of bilateral relations.

3.         Section 11 of the Agreement makes clear that the authorities of the host country shall not impose impediments to the transit to or from the Headquarters District of representatives of Members, Observers, United Nations officials, or experts on mission. While national security is a legitimate concern for any state, such considerations must be exercised in good faith and not in a manner that obstructs participation in the United Nations.

4.         The General Assembly has on past occasions underscored this principle, including in 1988 when it was compelled to convene outside New York following the denial of entry to a representative invited to address the Assembly. That precedent highlights the seriousness of compliance with the Headquarters Agreement.

5.         We therefore urge the host country to uphold its international obligations faithfully, to ensure that all delegations can participate without hindrance, and to preserve the integrity and neutrality of this Organization.

6.         We recall the Committee’s previous recommendations urging the host country to take all necessary measures to promptly eliminate any restrictions that are not in alignment with the Headquarters Agreement of 1947 between the United Nations and the host country, as well as other pertinent international instruments.

7.         In this regard, Malaysia firmly believes that it is in the collective interest of the United Nations and all Member States to ensure that the privileges and immunities accorded are upheld, thereby fostering the appropriate conditions necessary for the effective functioning of delegations and missions accredited to the United Nations.

Thank you.