Australia thanks the High Commissioner for her oral update.

Australia remains a strong and consistent supporter of Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. As reflected in the June G7 Leaders' Communique, Russia is a party to the conflict in eastern Ukraine, not a mediator. We reiterate our call on all parties to resolve issues in good faith, and to re-engage with the Normandy Format to resolve the stalemate in negotiations.

Australia is concerned by OHCHR reports of Russia using torture and ill-treatment in Ukraine's sovereign territory. The report finds that this is a violation of both international human rights law and international humanitarian law. We call on Russia, as an occupying power in Crimea, to uphold its obligations under international law.

Australia is concerned by OHCHR reports of Russia's continued violations of the right to freedom of religion or belief targeted against members of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine and Jehovah's Witnesses in temporarily occupied Crimea.  We call on Russia to protect all the rights of all individuals subject to its control.

Australia would welcome an update from the High Commissioner on her efforts to gain access for her or her office to occupied Crimea to facilitate her reporting.

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