Joint statement on Strait of Hormuz by European nations, Japan, Canada
LONDON, March 19 (Reuters) – Leading European countries, Japan and Canada issued a joint statement on Thursday saying they were ready to join the efforts necessary to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz and would take steps to stabilize energy markets.
The full text of the statement made by England, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Japan and Canada is as follows:
We condemn in the strongest terms Iran’s recent attacks on unarmed commercial ships in the Gulf, its attacks on civilian infrastructure, including oil and gas facilities, and the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces.
We express our deep concern about the escalating conflict. We call on Iran to immediately cease its threats, mine-laying, drone and missile attacks, and other attempts to close the Bosphorus to commercial shipping, and to comply with UN Security Council resolution 2817.
Freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle of international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
The effects of Iran’s actions will be felt by people around the world, especially the most vulnerable.
Consistent with UNSC Resolution 2817, we emphasize that such interference in international shipping and disruption of global energy supply chains constitute a threat to international peace and security. In this context, we call for an immediate comprehensive moratorium on attacks on civilian infrastructure, including oil and gas facilities.
We express our readiness to contribute to the necessary efforts to ensure safe passage through the Bosphorus. We welcome the commitment of nations planning preparedness.
We welcome the International Energy Agency’s decision to allow the coordinated release of strategic oil reserves. We will take other steps to stabilize energy markets, including working with certain producing countries to increase production.
We will also work to provide support to the most affected countries through the United Nations and IFIs (International Financial Institutions).
Maritime security and freedom of navigation are in the interest of all countries. We call on all states to respect international law and uphold the fundamental principles of international prosperity and security.
(Reporting by Muvija M; Editing by William James)
