The 36 States that make up the ICAO Council today discussed the ongoing situation in Ukraine during a scheduled meeting of the 225th Session of the ICAO Administrative Council.
A representative of Ukraine also participated in the Council meeting by virtue of that State’s interest in the situation.
The Council considered the item on the basis of an oral statement made by Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano. Together with a presentation by ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar, which updated representatives on the aviation operational context.
Council States condemned the violation of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of a United Nations Member State, including its airspace, as incompatible with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and Article 1 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention).
The Council has also expressed its grave concern over the latest developments in Ukraine and its solidarity with its people. This is in direct line with the sentiments expressed by the Secretary-General of the United Nations in his statements to the United Nations General Assembly on 23 and 24 February 2022.
Representatives of States have also recalled the preamble of the Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention)
This one notes the need to avoid friction and instead promote cooperation and friendship among nations and peoples, on which the peace of the world depends.
The Council further underlined the paramount importance of preserving the safety and security of international civil aviation. Hence the related obligations of Member States. In this context, the council urged the Russian Federation to cease its unlawful activities to ensure the safety and security of civil aviation in all affected areas. It urged to respect its obligations under the Chicago Convention. The statement also urged to respect other relevant international air law treaties. It called on all parties involved to seek to resolve the crisis through peaceful dialogue and diplomatic channels.
The Council also recalled with deep sorrow the human suffering caused by the downing of flight MH17 in eastern Ukraine on July 17, 2014. Such a tragedy must never be repeated.
In the same context, the Council reconfirmed its support for the Canadian-led “Safer Skies” initiative. This one enhances international efforts to safeguard civilian flight operations over or near conflict zones.
The Council asked the Secretariat to continue to monitor the situation in Ukraine and to provide support to the States involved.
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