The permanent representatives of Australia, the Kingdom of Belgium, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Malaysia and Ukraine, on behalf of their governments, issue the following statement on the second anniversary of the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 on 17 July 2014 in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine:

The countries recalled their full commitment to take effective measures to bring to justice the persons who are responsible, noting the importance of accountability in preventing future attacks on civil aircraft.

The countries restated their deep sympathy and condolences to the families of victims of this tragic event and to all grieving nations.

The countries recalled the concern expressed by the Security Council in Resolution 2166 (2014) about acts of violence that pose a threat to the safety of international civil aviation. The countries recalled the demand by the Security Council that those responsible for this incident be held accountable, reiterated their commitment to achieving that objective, and further recalled the Security Council’s demand that all States cooperate fully with efforts to establish accountability.

In that regard, the countries noted the independent technical investigation into the cause of the downing by the Dutch Safety Board, that was conducted in full compliance with ICAO Standards, and its report published on 13 October 2015. They also noted the ongoing criminal investigation conducted by a Joint Investigation Team (JIT).