Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s participation in a ministerial meeting of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations

On September 22, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov took part in a ministerial meeting of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations – which was created in July 2021 with Russia’s active engagement – on the sidelines of a general political discussion of the 77th session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

In his speech, the minister emphasised the Group’s firm commitment to the generally recognised international legal norms that are laid down in the UN Charter, including the principles of sovereign equality of states and non-interference in their domestic affairs. He expressed substantiated criticism for the concept of a rules-based order aimed at undermining the UN-centric system of international relations.

Sergey Lavrov particularly emphasised the Western countries’ ongoing attempts to turn this world organisation into a platform for demonising Russia and other countries that pursue independent foreign policies. He noted the damaging consequences of unlawful unilateral coercive measures.

The minister highlighted progress in strengthening coordination within the Group. Sergey Lavrov expressed the importance of adopting joint statements by the Group members on key international issues and implementing joint initiatives at the UN. The Russian side reaffirmed its willingness to make every effort to facilitate continuing revitalisation of the Group’s activities and the expansion of its membership.

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