{"disclaimer":"Automatically generated transcript — may contain errors. Not an official United Nations record.","video":{"id":"k13/k13o19ktg6","kaltura_id":"1_3o19ktg6","title":"(1st plenary meeting) Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons — Ninth Biennial Meeting of States","clean_title":"(1st plenary meeting) Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons — Ninth Biennial Meeting of States","url":"https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k13/k13o19ktg6","date":"2026-06-01T00:00:00.000Z","scheduled_time":"2026-06-01T14:00:00.000Z","status":"finished","duration":"02:43:35","category":"General Assembly","body":"General Assembly","event_code":null,"event_type":null,"session_number":"1st plenary meeting","pv_symbol":null,"pv_part":null,"slug":"asset/k13/k13o19ktg6"},"metadata":{"summary":"The General Assembly, through resolution 79/40 on the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects, decided to convene the ninth biennial meeting of States (BMS9) in 2026, to consider key challenges and opportunities relating to the implementation of the Programme of Action and the International Tracing Instrument at the national, regional and global levels. ","description":"Opening of the meeting by the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs Election of the Chair Statement by the Chair Adoption of the agenda and other organizational matters Election of other officers Election of the Chair of the open-ended technical expert group Consideration of the implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects and the International Instrument to Enable States to Identify and Trace, in a Timely and Reliable Manner, Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons, including the prevention and detection of diversion of small arms and light weapons to unauthorized recipients and illicit markets, taking into account technological developments, with a view to strengthening the implementation of the Programme of Action and the International Tracing Instrument The ninth Biennial Meeting of States to Consider the Implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects will be held from1-5 June 2026 in New York.","categories":["Meetings & Events","General Assembly"],"geographic_subject":[],"subject_topical":["ARMS","SMALL ARMS","ARMS CONTROL","ARMS TRADE"],"corporate_name":[],"speaker_affiliation":[],"related_documents":[]},"transcript":{"transcript_id":"assemblyai-universal-3-pro-547d3803-083c-4005-b7e6-5f8be29639f2","language":"en","data":[{"statement_number":1,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Good morning, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen. It is my pleasure and privilege to declare open the 9th Biennial Meeting of States to consider the implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its aspects. I extend a warm welcome to all present here today, this morning. We shall now take up Agenda Item 2 of the provisional agenda of the meeting, namely election of the chair. I understand that there is general agreement amongst delegations to elect His Excellency Mr. James Martin Larsen, Permanent Representative of Australia to the United Nations. As chair of the meeting. May I take it that it is the wish of delegates to the meeting to elect His Excellency Ambassador James Martin Larsen of Australia by acclamation as chair of the 9th Biennial Meeting of States to Consider the Implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its aspects? No, I see the representative of Iran wishing to take the floor. I give the floor to the delegates of Iran, please.","start":2.971,"end":115.92,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"Izumi Nakamitsu","affiliation":"UNODA","affiliation_full":"UNODA","group":null,"function":"USG/High Representative for Disarmament Affairs"}},{"statement_number":2,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Madam Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, for giving me the floor. Iran does not support Australia putting itself forward for the chairmanship of the 9th Biennial Meeting of States to consider the implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its aspects. Australia's resort to politicization, double standards and selective approaches in multilateral forums makes clear that it is unfit for such a role. Entrusting the chairmanship of this meeting to a delegation that has failed to uphold the principles of neutrality, impartiality and professionalism damages the credibility and integrity of the process. We request that the records of the meeting reflect that the Islamic Republic of Iran dissociates itself from the consensus on the decision to appoint Australia to this leadership role. I thank you, Madam Under-Secretary.","start":115.92,"end":176.66,"topics":[{"key":"sovereignty-self-defense","label":"Sovereignty and Self-Defense","description":"A number of delegations stressed that implementation of the Programme of Action must respect state sovereignty, non-interference, and the inherent right of self-defense under the UN Charter. They warned against politicized or discriminatory restrictions on legitimate arms manufacture, import, export, and possession for national security purposes."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"IRN","affiliation_full":"Iran (Islamic Republic of)","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":3,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I thank the distinguished delegates of Iran. I take note of that position. May I take it that it is the wish of delegates to the meeting to elect His Excellency Ambassador James Martin Larsen of Australia as chair of the 9th Biennial Meeting of States to consider the implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its aspects? It is so decided. I wish to extend my warmest congratulations to Ambassador Larsen on his election to this important post. Let me wish him success in this very important endeavor and assure him of the support and full cooperation of the Secretariat, my office, and of course myself. I now invite His Excellency Ambassador Larsen to take over the proceedings of the 9th Biennial Meeting. Please, to the podium.","start":178.94,"end":246.843,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"Izumi Nakamitsu","affiliation":"UNODA","affiliation_full":"UNODA","group":null,"function":"USG/High Representative for Disarmament Affairs"}},{"statement_number":4,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Hi, Representative. Dear colleagues. First, let me say how delighted I am to have been asked to serve as chair of the 9th biennial meeting of the Small Arms and Light Weapons Implementation Review. We know we meet at a critical juncture when both geopolitics and technological developments are straining both the Programme of Action and the International Tracing Instrument in the most challenging ways possible. Thank you to all delegations for the confidence you have entrusted in me to help steer us to a successful conclusion over the next couple of days. And let me take a moment to thank our colleagues in UNODA, and DGACM for their hard work in the lead-up to this meeting. And as always, I think we should acknowledge the immense efforts of the Secretariat in helping us do our work. The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons continues to fuel armed conflict, sustain criminal networks, and inflict devastating human suffering across regions. It undermines development, erodes state authority, and prolongs instability. The urgency of our work is self-evident. Much remains to be done to address these many challenges. I know that we are all committed to doing everything possible in the coming days to build on the work that has been done to date and to ensure we make progress. I hope we can be creative in identifying ways to address contentious issues and can build bridges which support a constructive approach across all delegations. The collaboration and goodwill evident throughout the informal consultations leading to today's meeting convinced me that we have a genuine opportunity to help reduce the human suffering needlessly caused by this evil trade. I am delighted that our meeting coincides with the first-ever gathering of the Open-Ended Technical Expert group, under the able leadership of my friend and colleague, Ambassador Michael Kanu, the OETG is in good hands indeed. We have an opportunity this week to do more than merely repeat longstanding positions. This is our collective opportunity to come together and advance this important initiative, taking a special account of the very real challenges posed by dramatically changing technological capabilities. If we fail this moment, the costs will be real and the adverse impacts felt across many of our communities. I look forward very much to working with you all in the coming days, and thank you. I now have the honor to invite delegations to view a prerecorded address by the Secretary-General of the United Nations, His Excellency Antonio Guterres. I now invite the technology people to do that.","start":276.392,"end":450.74,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":5,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Excellencies, for 25 years, the Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons has been a cornerstone of global disarmament and peace efforts. But our world has fundamentally changed over the last quarter century. Armed conflicts are multiplying, divisions are deepening, military spending is skyrocketing, new threats are rapidly emerging, including 3D-printed arms and untraceable ghost guns circulating across the black markets.","start":450.74,"end":479.46,"topics":[{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."}]},{"text":"And diversion, your focus this year, remains the primary method of acquiring weapons that fuel terrorism, crime and gender-based violence, while killing peacekeepers and blocking humanitarian access.","start":479.61,"end":491.53,"topics":[{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."}]},{"text":"Interpol tells us that there are more than 2 million records of lost, stolen or trafficked firearms in circulation today.","start":492.19,"end":500.25,"topics":[]},{"text":"Using the Programme of Action as a base, Countries must act together to end this scourge: by sharing intelligence, technical support and capacity building; by developing new solutions to address the threat of emerging technologies and diversion; and by curbing illicit weapons flows and closing regulatory loopholes. We must ensure the Programme of Action is fit for today's challenges. I urge you to adopt an outcome document that keeps communities free of illicit small arms and weapons. Together, let's build safer societies and a more secure world. I thank the Secretary-General for those pre-recorded remarks. I now have the honour of inviting the Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu, to make a statement. Ms. Nakazumi.","start":500.46,"end":554.17,"topics":[{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"Antonio Guterres","affiliation":"UN Secretariat","affiliation_full":"UN Secretariat","group":null,"function":"SG"}},{"statement_number":6,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you very much, Mr.","start":554.17,"end":555.73,"topics":[]},{"text":"Chair.","start":555.73,"end":556.03,"topics":[]},{"text":"Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the 9th Biennial Meeting of States on the Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons and the International Tracing Instrument. Later this week, the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group will convene for the first time, as mandated by the 4th Review Conference in 2024. 25 years ago, you adopted the Programme of Action out of grave concern for the humanitarian, social, and economic cost of illicit small arms and light weapons, and the threat they pose to peace, security, and sustainable development. Since we last met in 2024, those costs have only grown. Violence has intensified. Humanitarian needs continue to mount while financing for development declines. As the Secretary-General observes in his report, The Security We Need, skyrocketing global military expenditure stands in direct tension with our development goals. In response to insecurity, Too many states are only increasing military defence rather than investing in dialogue and peace. This shift has coincided with an erosion of the norms and laws meant to limit the harm done by armed conflict. Illicit small arms and light weapons remain a primary driver of that harm. They are involved in nearly half of all homicides and enable crime, displacement, terrorism, and political violence. The burden falls hardest on the Global South, where they obstruct humanitarian access, endanger UN personnel, and undermine sustainable peace and development. These impacts and our responses to them are uneven. These weapons are used to perpetrate sexual and gender-based violence, with women and girls facing highest risks while remaining, remaining underrepresented in arms control decisions. Young people are both victims and recruits for armed groups, and when they meet prevention efforts, they often do so without adequate support. Technological change compounds the challenge. Advances in manufacturing and design are outpacing regulatory responses, making illicit production easier and tracing harder. Yet the same wave of innovation offers tools to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument, ITI, improve marking and help prevent diversion. Excellencies, the Pact for the Future reaffirms our commitment to combat illicit arms transfers and uphold disarmament obligations in support of SDG 16 and its target to reduce illicit arms flows. For 25 years, the Programme of Action and the ITI have helped States strengthen control over the manufacture, transfer, and export of small arms. I thank those Member States that submitted their 2026 national reports, and I would like to underline the importance of regular reporting by all States. This meeting is our opportunity to take stock and to ensure these instruments remain fit for purpose. To meet today's threats, we must move from commitment to concrete action. To make the Programme of Action more effective, we must act decisively, including by: mandating end-to-end digital traceability with tamper-resistant marks and real-time records for all newly manufactured weapons and, as appropriate, ammunition. Cutting off diversion at source through pre-transfer risk assessments that can prevent exports where a substantial risk is identified. Strengthening international efforts to address emerging technologies, including 3D-printed weapons and modular firearms, in accordance with national legal frameworks. Funding prevention by directing a percentage of small arms and light weapons assistance to community-based initiatives, with direct support for women's and youth-led efforts, and strengthening implementation through voluntary measures that link reporting to impact and support targeted assistance. Reducing human suffering is our mandate. The PoA and ITI remain areas where consensus have— has prevailed amid wider disarmament gridlocks. Let us continue that tradition at BMS IX and chart a practical, forward-looking path against illicit small arms and light weapons. This is our moment to deliver on our commitments for a safer world. I urge you to make full use of this. I thank you very much for your attention.","start":557.43,"end":917.9,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"Izumi Nakamitsu","affiliation":"UNODA","affiliation_full":"UNODA","group":null,"function":"USG/High Representative for Disarmament Affairs"}},{"statement_number":7,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I thank High Representative Nakamitsu for those remarks. And I now move to agenda item 4, which is adoption of the agenda and other organizational matters. Let me make just a personal comment, if I may, just so colleagues are aware. I'm actually visually impaired at the moment. I just have an issue which means I can't see effectively. So if I'm looking at you and I'm not identifying you, that is why. So just bear with me, if you'd be so kind. I'm otherwise perfectly fine, but it's just an issue that you might find rather peculiar on occasions. As I said, we'll now move to take up Item 4, Adoption of the Agenda and Other Organizational Matters. I'm hoping that all of you have in front of you the provisional agenda as contained in Document A/Conf/192/BMS/2026/L1, the provisional program of work as contained in Document Conf/192/BMS/2026/L2, and a draft decision entitled Provisional Rules of Procedure of the Ninth Biennial Meeting issued as document Conf/192/BMS/2026/L3. Assuming all colleagues have those documents available to them, I'd like to draw the attention of representatives to the provisional agenda for the Ninth biennial meeting is contained in document CONF192BMS2026L1, and if I hear no objections, may I take it that the meeting wishes to adopt the provisional agenda? Do I see any objections? I do not. Therefore, the agenda is adopted. I now move to our organization of of work, the provisional program of work for the 9th Biennial Meeting of States to Consider the Implementation of the Program of Action to Prevent, Combat, and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects, CONF192/BMS/2026. Delegations will note that due to the financial constraints facing the organization, no meetings will be held tomorrow. Tuesday, the 2nd of June. In addition, I have invited the Secretariat to make interventions on the following days: this afternoon at 3 PM under Agenda Item 7, where there will be a presentation on implementation of the Programme of Action and ITI trends, challenges, and opportunities based on national reporting, and the study on obliterated markings and methods for marking recovery in the context of the International Tracing Instrument. And on Wednesday morning, under Agenda Item 8, the presentation will be on mandate implementation, the Small Arms and Light Weapons Fellowship training program, the structured procedure, and the new funding mechanism. And I thank the Secretariat for making itself available for both of those presentations and encourage delegations' engagement. I am looking at the room, and may I take it that the meeting wishes to proceed in accordance with the program of work as contained in Document L2, as I just previously identified, and as I have just outlined. I'll allow a moment for any colleagues who wish to intervene, and I see no colleagues who wish to intervene. Therefore, it is so decided. I now move, if I may, to consideration of the rules of procedure. I will recall for the benefit of all delegations that the same rules of procedure were applied mutatis mutandis to all previous biennial meetings. The draft decision on the provisional rules of procedure has been issued as a document A/CONF/192/BMS/192. 2026 L3, which is before our meeting today. May I take it that it is the wish of the meeting to adopt the draft decision on the rules of procedure for the 9th biennial meeting as contained in Document CONF192BMS2026 L3? This is an opportunity for any delegation who wishes to intervene on this issue to do so. I see no delegation seeking to take the floor. Accordingly, It is so decided. I move now to consideration of attendance in the meeting of non-government organizations. In accordance with Rule 63 of the Rules of Procedure, a list of non-governmental organizations which submitted applications to participate in the biennial meeting was made available together with accompanying relevant information to all delegations before the meeting as contained in document Conf/192/BMS/2026/Inf/1. May I take it that the meeting approves the attendance of the non-governmental organizations contained in that list? I will provide an opportunity for anybody who wishes to intervene to do so. I see no one. Accordingly, it is so decided. I have also been informed that a number of side events may take place in the margins of this meeting. Once this information is provided to the Secretariat, it will be included on the BMS website, and I will be making a couple of remarks, I think, before we break at lunchtime about activities over the course of the lunch period, if that is useful to colleagues. And so, if colleagues would like me to include Any references in those remarks, please bring them to my attention. I now move to agenda item 5, election of other officers. As all of you will be aware, agenda item 5 invites us to proceed with that election following the precedent of other Annual meetings, it was proposed that the Bureau of the meeting will consist of 14 vice chairs, 2 from the Group of Western European States and 3 from each of the other regional groups. The Group of African States has endorsed the nominations of Algeria, Djibouti, and Rwanda. The Group of Asia-Pacific States has endorsed the nomination of Japan. From the Group of —of Eastern European states, the nomination of Ukraine has been received. From the group of Latin America and Caribbean states, the nomination of the Bahamas has been received. The group of Western European and other states has endorsed the nominations of Austria and Belgium. May I take it that the meeting decides to elect Algeria, Austria, the Bahamas, Belgium, Djibouti, Japan, Rwanda, and Ukraine as vice chairs by acclamation. I will pause. I see no delegation wishing to take the floor. There is no objection. It's so decided. On behalf of the participants in the meeting, I should like to take this opportunity to express to the vice chairs our warmest congratulations on their election. I'd also like to assure them of my full cooperation and my confidence that we will jointly discharge the important responsibility in ensuring a successful meeting, and I very much value their prospective engagement. I move now to agenda item 6, entitled Election of the Chair of the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group. States will recall that in its Resolution 7940, The General Assembly endorsed the outcome of the 4th United Nations Conference and decided to establish an open-ended technical expert group convening for at least 2 days and no more than 3 days in 2026 and in 2028, respectively, within the schedule of meetings of the biennial meeting of states to develop agreed recommendations by consensus to ensure the full and effective implementation of the Programme of Action and international tracing instrument in preventing, combating, and eradicating the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in light of developments in small arms and light weapons manufacturing, technology, and design, in particular polymer and modular weapons and firearms produced using 3D printing, focusing on the provision of international cooperation and assistance as outlined in paragraphs 174 2178 in the outcome document of the Fourth Review Conference. The Review Conference further decided that the chair of the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group will report on its work and the agreed recommendations of the group to the biennial meetings of states. This meeting will therefore proceed now with the election of the chair of the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group. I understand there is general agreement among delegations to elect His Excellency Mr. Michael Imran Kanu, Permanent Representative of Sierra Leone to the United Nations, as Chair of the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group. May I take it that it is the wish of delegates to elect His Excellency Ambassador Kanu by acclamation as Chair of the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group? Let me take a moment to allow delegations to intervene if they wish. I hear no objection. It is therefore so decided. I hereby declare Ambassador Kanu elected by acclamation as chair of the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group. And on behalf of all delegations, I warmly congratulate Ambassador Kanu on his election, and I am certain that he will receive the support and cooperation of each and every delegation in executing his mandate to guide the work of the expert group. I congratulate Ambassador Kanu. If you'll allow me to do so, I will now move to Agenda Item 7, entitled \"Consideration of the Implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects.\" and the international instrument to enable states to identify and trace in a timely and reliable manner illicit small arms and light weapons, including the prevention and detection of diversion of small arms and light weapons to unauthorized recipients and illicit markets, taking into account technological developments with a view to strengthening the implementation of the Programme of Action and the International Tracing Instrument. In line with past practice and in order to maximize the use of our time, we will dispense with a general debate and move directly into the thematic debate. There is no established list of speakers for these discussions. Delegations are reminded to request the floor by pressing the speaker button in front of them in the usual way. Due to what I anticipate will be a large number of participants, your request may not be addressed immediately. However, the Secretariat will be monitoring all requests and will inscribe speakers by and large in the order they have been inscribed to speak. Thank you very much indeed in advance of your patience. Speakers will be given the floor in the order they appear on the console in front of me, unless there is some particular reason why that is not feasible. While those who are speaking on behalf of a group of states should approach the Secretariat so they're given priority, and I will announce upcoming speakers at each time. Delegations intending to take the floor should bear in mind that the allocated time limit for statements made in the national capacity is 3 minutes, and for statements made on behalf of several delegations, for 5 minutes. I believe that there will be a timer indicated on the on screen the screen and let me, if I may, anticipate that we will adhere to those time limits very strictly in the course of these proceedings in order to maximize our efficiency. I apologize if that means delegations accidentally get cut off, but I think that those time limits are important for all of us. I would very much invite all delegations to take those time limits into account. And also we offer the opportunity for full statements to be submitted to estatements@un.org with a copy to conventionalalarms@unoda@un.org. We shall now begin discussions under Agenda Item 7. Just let me say in relation to those two web links, I presume they'll be made available by the Secretariat if anybody has any difficulty in in trying to locate them, but it's the usual processes, of course. We now begin discussions under Agenda Item 7, and of course, I encourage delegations to be as specific as possible on how you would like to further improve the relevant section of our draft outcome document. And I would initially like to give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nigeria, Nigeria on behalf of the African Group, followed by Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Arab Group. Nigeria, you have the floor. Thank you very much, Mr.","start":919.66,"end":1761.466,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":8,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Chair. I have the honor to speak on behalf of the African Group. The group congratulates you on your election and assures you of full support. We thank the Office of Disarmament Affairs for the quality of its preparation. I will extend a particular word of appreciation to the United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Africa. The Africa Group warmly congratulates our sister country, the Republic of Sierra Leone, on the election as the chair of the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group. Sierra Leone brings to bringing into their role of deep expertise as well as a long-standing commitment to disarmament and peacebuilding and the trust of our continent, our group pledges its full and active engagement under the Zillaloon Abu stewardship governance. Mr. Chairman, 25 years after the Programme of Action and 21 years after the International Tracing Instrument, Illicits small arms and light weapons remain the driver of armed violence in our continent. They are very— they are the true weapon of mass destruction in Africa, fueling terrorism, violent extremism, as well as transactional organized crime, prolonged conflicts, obstructing human access, and claiming African lives every single day. The Africa Group therefore approached the 9th Plenary Meeting of States with the opportunity to translate longstanding commitments into measurable results. Our engagement at this meeting is firmly anchored on the Common Africa Position that sets out agreed priorities of our continent across national, regional, and international levels. Geocentric level and provides the framework within which the Africa Group approached the deliberation of this meeting. We affirm an inherent right of all member states to self-defense and the principle of sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-interference, and peaceful settlement of disputes, particularly Article 2, Sub-4, and Article 2, Sub-7. Of the United Nations Charter and the Preamble. Mr. Chairman, at this juncture, allow me to set out four major priorities on our agenda. First, national implementation must be real. So African members have strengthened legal framework across the full life cycle of small arms and manufacturer and making to stockpile management and disruptions. We have invested in our national coordination bodies, point-to-combat, and cost and national action plan. Upon request, we shall partner to support the implementation of those plans through which, while ensuring that church assistance meets the needs of the member states, consigned to ensure national ownership and voluntary national targets. The second point on the priority agenda of Africa at Least is making record keeping and tracing must remain the cornerstone of our engagement. Thirdly, the prevention and detention of diversion must be tackled at its source. Diversion from legal stockpile through theft, leakage, and authorized transfer, the principal channel through which weapons must reach armed groups, terrorists, and criminal networks. Africa Group therefore calls for strengthened physical security and stockpiling management in peacetime, conflict, and post-conflict situations; robust end-user control; systematic diversion monitoring; documentation and investigation; support for enhanced information exchange; and decisive measures to criminalize the conversion of deactivated, block-firing, and non-lethal firearms into functional weapons. We also realize our call to prohibit the transfer of small arms and light weapons to unauthorized non-state actors, including criminals and terrorist groups, particularly non-state actors that are violent. Fourthly, Technology must close the gap for illicit trading, proliferation, and diversion of small arms and light weapons, not widen it. The need to control the use of AI and other technology information to ensure that technology is not an instrument by which we expand—","start":1761.562,"end":2058.613,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"sovereignty-self-defense","label":"Sovereignty and Self-Defense","description":"A number of delegations stressed that implementation of the Programme of Action must respect state sovereignty, non-interference, and the inherent right of self-defense under the UN Charter. They warned against politicized or discriminatory restrictions on legitimate arms manufacture, import, export, and possession for national security purposes."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"NGA","affiliation_full":"Nigeria","group":"Africa Group","function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":9,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I thank the distinguished representative of Nigeria on behalf of the African Group. And I invite the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Arab Group, followed by Sri Lanka, Uruguay, and Qatar. Distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia, you have the floor.","start":2062.993,"end":2079.514,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":10,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Shukran. Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. The Arab Group would like to congratulate you and express appreciation to you and your team on your presidency of the 9th Biennial Meeting of States, and we would like to support you during this meeting. And in this context, we wish to highlight the following points as the basis for the Arab position on this vital topic. First, the Arab Group attaches growing importance to combating the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, in particular in light of the catastrophic security humanitarian and economic impacts of the unprecedented increase in the illicit supply of such weapons in the Arab region. The group notes that some governments appear to supply terrorist organizations and illegal armed groups with weapons in order to prolong armed conflicts and achieve malicious political objectives, in violation of the most basic principles of international law, the UN Charter, and a number of Security Council resolutions, including Resolution 2370 of 2017. Second, the importance of the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its aspects, and the need to preserve its value as a consensual instrument whose primary purpose is to build confidence and strengthen cooperation in order to eliminate the illicit trade in such weapons. The Group underscores the importance of full adherence to the mandate of the Programme without attempting to expand it to include non-consensus issues, thereby preserving its effectiveness as a specialized framework for this file. Third, the need to ensure that any measures taken under the umbrella of the Programme of Action will not interfere with the inherent right of States to self-defense. As well as the right to manufacture, import, and possess conventional weapons for this purpose in accordance with security needs. Fourth, the need to avoid imposing any politicized or discriminatory restrictions on the legitimate trade in conventional arms among governments in accordance with the state's sovereign assessment of the nature of the security threats it faces. At the same time, all states, in particular exporting and producing states, should assume the responsibility to prohibit any transfer of arms to entities without official authorization from the competent authority of the importing state. Fifth, the Arab Group maintains that the Programme of Action is a standalone international framework. We emphasize the importance of ensuring the implementation does not conflict with any other international mechanism, including the International Ammunition Framework. Sixth, the importance of the international cooperation and technical assistance in implementing the Programme of Action and the ITI, including supporting states' capacities through modern technologies and through capacity building and transfer of technology. Seventh, we attach great importance to follow up on the technological developments relevant to small arms and light weapons, including modular weapons, polymer-based weapons, and 3D print technologies, and continuing to study the, their impact and implications within the framework of the Programme of Action and the ITI. We must afford priority to the full and effective implementation of existing commitments while avoiding imposing any additional burdens that would undermine the effectiveness of these frameworks. We must also take into account disparities in technical and financial capacities between developed and developing countries. We further underscore the importance of respecting states' right to establish their own regulatory frameworks and to avoid imposing restrictions or measures that would negatively affect the legitimate, peaceful, and commercial use of modern technology. Eighth, it is important to support the fellowship program of the small arms and light weapons established by GA Resolution 71/77, as well as the need to ensure providing adequate and sustainable resources to guarantee its effectiveness, whether through voluntary contributions or within discussions related to the UN budget. This would contribute to strengthening the capacities of developing countries. In conclusion, the Arab Group affirms the importance of continually assessing the effectiveness of the Programme of Action and the progress achieved in its implementation, including consideration of development of voluntary tools by States to evaluate progress made. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.","start":2081.535,"end":2383.226,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"sovereignty-self-defense","label":"Sovereignty and Self-Defense","description":"A number of delegations stressed that implementation of the Programme of Action must respect state sovereignty, non-interference, and the inherent right of self-defense under the UN Charter. They warned against politicized or discriminatory restrictions on legitimate arms manufacture, import, export, and possession for national security purposes."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"SAU","affiliation_full":"Saudi Arabia","group":"Arab Group","function":"Permanent Representative"}},{"statement_number":11,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I thank the Permanent Representative of Saudi Arabia and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sri Lanka, followed by Uruguay.","start":2387.867,"end":2396.725,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":12,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Sri Lanka, you have the floor. Mr. Chair, my delegation congratulates you on your assumption as Chair of this esteemed meeting. We assure you of our fullest support and cooperation. The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons continues to fuel conflict and undermine sustainable development. Their accessibility and widespread availability allow violence to deteriorate across societies and exact a profound human cost. Sri Lanka attaches great importance to the effective implementation of the Programme of Action and the International Tracing Instrument. We welcome the consensual adoption of the outcome document of the Fourth Review Conference on the Programme of Action as an important step in advancing cooperation to address the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons. The primary responsibility for preventing the illicit transfer and diversion of such weapons rests with states. This requires national measures and real political will. Sri Lanka continues to strengthen institutional and operational measures on effective management, storage, issuance, accounting, and oversight of state-held small arms and light weapons through accountability procedures and regular auditing mechanisms. Institutional safeguards are in place to prevent unauthorized access, loss, theft, or diversion of weapons and ammunition from military stocks. The military personnel are also provided with adequate training to the prevention of illicit arms proliferation. Mr. Chair, as an island nation situated along vital maritime routes in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is acutely aware of the threats posed by illicit trafficking networks that increasingly exploit evolving technologies and transnational criminal channels. Addressing these challenges requires stronger information sharing, improved tracing capacities, and closer cooperation among states and relevant institutions. Developing countries continue to face difficulties in accessing the resources, technology, and expertise necessary for the full implementation of commitments under the Programme of Action. In this regard, Sri Lanka has benefited from practical capacity-building initiatives, including cooperation with the UNRCPD to enhance national capacities related to the safe and secure management of state-held weapons. The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons affects us all and requires a collective response. Sri Lanka remains committed to working constructively with all partners to strengthen implementation at the national, regional, and international levels in pursuit of more peaceful and secure societies.","start":2396.789,"end":2577.727,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"LKA","affiliation_full":"Sri Lanka","group":null,"function":"Permanent Representative"}},{"statement_number":13,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I thank the Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka and I pass the floor to the distinguished representative of Uruguay.","start":2583.356,"end":2591.391,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":14,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Señor Presidente.","start":2595.817,"end":2597.581,"topics":[]},{"text":"Chair. I wish to begin by expressing the sincere thanks of my delegation for your work, in particular for convening informal meetings that have fostered constructive dialogue. Also, thank you for the early circulation of the drafts of the outcomes document. As underscored by Resolution 1838, the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons continues to have grave humanitarian and socioeconomic consequences and represents a constant threat to the peace, security, stability, and sustainable development of our countries. Against this backdrop, the need to strengthen our national— sorry, domestic, regional, at the national and international level is more urgent than ever today. Uruguay appreciates the progress made in the 8th Biennial Meeting of States, in particular the adoption by consensus of its final document that reaffirmed the relevance of the Programme of Action, the International Tracing Instrument, as fundamental frameworks to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trade of small arms and light weapons. In line with what was agreed, Uruguay believes that it's particularly relevant to promote national policies and actions that address all of the steps of the life cycle of weapons from the manufacturing, um, transfer, storage, as well as their registration, um, tracing, and, um, destruction. We have promoted, among other actions, the carrying out of a diagnostic of state capacities with the support of the OAS and the Inter-American Development Bank and the UN Institute for Disarmament Research. We have also presented in a timely manner our national report. Just like, um, during previous meetings, Uruguay understands that the presentation of national reports is not a mere formal exercise but rather a concrete tool to measure progress, identify needs, and strengthen transparency and facilitate international cooperation. In this regard, we encourage continuing to optimize these reports, including in relation to the efforts to compile data linked to Target 16.4 of the 2030 Agenda. Polymer and modular weapons and 3D printing pose additional threats to, um, traditional, um, control measures, which requires responses that are tailored and adapted to new technological realities. Our country continues to strengthen cooperation with the Technical Group of Experts to draft consensus-based recommendations and practical ones. We believe that the prevention of the trade in small arms and light weapons must continue to be guided by a humanitarian, preventive, and cooperative approach.","start":2599.153,"end":2756.19,"topics":[{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."}]},{"text":"Thank you very much, Chairman. I thank the distinguished representative of Uruguay. I now invite the distinguished representative of Qatar, followed by Morocco, Argentina, and Rwanda. Qatar, you have the floor.","start":2756.19,"end":2769.31,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"URY","affiliation_full":"Uruguay","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":15,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Mr. Chairman, at the outset, I would like to congratulate you on your appointment to preside over the 9th Biennial Meeting of States on the Programme of Action on Self, and you can count on our support. We would also like to subscribe ourselves to what the Arab states said, Mr. Chairman, armed conflicts and destabilization are being fueled by the proliferation of self— these weapons are falling into the hands of non-state groups. Therefore, we'd like to underscore the importance of fully implementing the Program of Action and the International Tracing Instrument in keeping with the UN Charter, as well as the principle of the sovereignty of states, non-interference in their internal affairs, and with full respect for the right of these states to uphold their defense and security interests. The State of Qatar in 2026 submitted its last report on the implementation of the ITI— on the ITI Programme of Action. Regarding the outcome document, we must urge states to, on a voluntary basis and in keeping with their national capacity, to establish national indices for measuring the programme— the progress they've made on implementing the Programme of Action and the ITI. Mr. Chairman, we wish to reiterate the importance of international cooperation as well as the need to provide financial and technical support as well as to build capacity, especially in developing states, and as regards marking, tracing, stockpile management, border security, and the elimination of excess arms. So that they can combat the diversion of these weapons from— towards non-authorized entities which could use these for illicit or terrorist activities. By way of conclusion, we'd like to emphasize the importance of cooperating at the international level to prevent the illicit trade itself and to ensure their eradication, all the while keeping in mind the capacity of developing states and by providing assistance to them on request. I thank you.","start":2774.509,"end":2902.61,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"sovereignty-self-defense","label":"Sovereignty and Self-Defense","description":"A number of delegations stressed that implementation of the Programme of Action must respect state sovereignty, non-interference, and the inherent right of self-defense under the UN Charter. They warned against politicized or discriminatory restrictions on legitimate arms manufacture, import, export, and possession for national security purposes."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"QAT","affiliation_full":"Qatar","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":16,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I thank the representative of Qatar, and I now pass the floor to Morocco, followed by Argentina and Rwanda. The distinguished representative of Morocco, you have the floor.","start":2903.829,"end":2912.487,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":17,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Merci, Monsieur le Président. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. At the outset, I would like to congratulate you on your election to preside over this 9th biennial meeting. We stand convinced that under your leadership, our meeting will come to a balanced and fruitful outcome. The illicit trade in self is one of the most systemic security challenges of our time. It fuels conflicts, terrorism, and organized crime. It also undermines development efforts across the world's regions. BMS IX should face up to this reality. At the national level, against this backdrop, Morocco has crafted robust legislation covering the arms trade throughout the lifecycle. Now, this legal framework has been strengthened by operational measures, inter alia, to ensure we can trace and secure firearms. We can address the issue of munitions depots. The list goes on. As regards tracking, the iARMS system set up by Interpol also helps to facilitate international cooperation. On this basis, Morocco would like to highlight 3 priorities. Substantive improvements to the tracing of illicit weapons, which is too high at the global level. The ITI can only make progress if there's systematic marking, if states respond to cooperation requests in a timely fashion. Second, we need to tailor our national frameworks to new technological realities— modular weapons, polymers, 3D printing, all of that means that there is a lot of diversion that our existing frameworks had not anticipated. The work of the technical group should result in operational, tangible recommendations which can be directly applicable by member states. Now, these developments also call on us to strengthen border control, including by using scanners which can detect polymer and 3D weapons. Third, in order to prevent diversion, We need to work on our transfer approval system. Often the diversion happens as a result of a transfer which was initially legal. We need verification measures after the weapons have been sent. We need clear communication between those sending and those receiving the weapons to close these gaps. By way of conclusion, Mr. Chairman, Morocco stands ready to constructively engage in negotiations on our final document to ensure that these priorities are reflected at the level that they deserve.","start":2915.073,"end":3074.734,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."}]},{"text":"I thank you. I thank Morocco. I now give the floor to Argentina, followed by Rwanda and then Greece.","start":3074.799,"end":3081.583,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"MAR","affiliation_full":"Morocco","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":18,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Argentina, you have the floor. Thank you very much, Chairman.","start":3081.84,"end":3087.036,"topics":[]},{"text":"Please allow me to thank you, Ambassador Larsen, for heading up this biennial meeting. Also to your team and the Secretariat, thank you for the efforts made to promote constructive dialogue in the implementation of the Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons. We would like to now underscore the following issues. First of all, like we have done historically, we support the needs to promote responsible, effective, and technically viable controls to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons throughout their entire lifecycle. It must be a priority to preserve and strengthen the consensus reached in the framework of the Programme of Action in the International Tracing Instrument alongside the Global Framework for Ammunition Management constitutes the main universal instruments for addressing this challenge. Secondly, we believe that these instruments must be complemented with other relevant frameworks such as the Protocol on Firearms and fundamentally the Arms Trade Treaty, harnessing existing synergies between them and strengthening implementation on a national and regional level. Third, we encourage the exchange of good practices and national experiences as well as technical assistance between states. What's more, we underscore the substantial value of national reports as a fundamental tool for evaluating the implementation of the programme and strengthening its efficiency. Fourth, we wish to underscore our national experience in terms of registration, control, and traceability of firearms. For more than 3 decades now, our country has had a specialized national authority tasked with authorizing and overseeing activities linked to firearms, ammunition, and explosives. This system is supported by a national digital database that enables us to strengthen the traceability of controlled materials and contribute to the prevention and detection of illicit trafficking. Fifth, we observe with attention challenges associated with emerging technologies such as additive manufacturing or 3D printing that pose new challenges for control traceability and prevention systems, prevention of illicit deviation. We believe that it's particularly important to pay attention not only to complete weapons but also to their parts and essential components. Sixth, we are grateful for the draft of the final document and we are in favor of a concise, action-focused approach. We reiterate some suggest— we will submit some suggestions in writing. Thank you very much. Thank you, Argentina.","start":3087.63,"end":3241.11,"topics":[{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"ARG","affiliation_full":"Argentina","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":19,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I now give the floor to Rwanda, followed by Greece and Mexico. Rwanda, you have the floor.","start":3241.11,"end":3245.389,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":20,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Mr. Chair. At the outset, please allow me to convey my delegation's sincere appreciation to you to lead our work during this 9th plenum meeting of CIRPATIS. Please rest assured of my delegation's full support. Mr. Chair, Rwanda aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the African Group and will offer the following remarks in our national capacity. Mr. Chair, for Rwanda, the full and effective implementation of the POA and ATI remains a priority. For us, these instruments must focus not only on commitments but on the practical implementation, measurable progress, and the means to address the emerging security challenges, including new emerging technologies. The illicit trade, diversion, and uncontrolled proliferation of small arms and light weapons in all their aspects continue to fuel conflict, armed violence, terrorism, and transnational organized crime, particularly in developing countries. The humanitarian and socioeconomic impacts remain severe, undermining international peace and security, weakening institutions and the rule of law, hindering sustainable development, humanitarian assistance, impeding post-conflict recovery and long-term development efforts. Persistent challenges continue to impair the effective implementation of the POA and the ITI, including weak legislative and regulatory frameworks, limited institutional and technical capacities, inadequate ICT infrastructure and trained personnel, particularly in ammunition management, as well as insufficient harmonized reporting and data collection mechanisms. These challenges are further compounded by limited financial resources, difficulties in measuring implementation progress, and persistent risk of diversion throughout the lifecycle of small arms and light weapons. Against this backdrop, BMS9 presents a timely opportunity to review progress achieved, identify remaining gaps, exchange best practices, and further strengthen international cooperation and technical assistance. In this regard, we wish to underscore several priority areas that merit continued attention. First, there is need to— there is need for a sustained political will to address the root causes as well as the socioeconomic and environmental drivers that contribute to the illicit trade of small arms and light weapons. Appropriate responses should be developed in accordance with national laws, regulations, and priorities. Second, enhance effective data collection, coordination, monitoring to scale and enforce existing regional platforms. In this regard, enhanced cooperation among national focal points, regional mechanisms, and international partners remains indispensable. More robust efforts to strengthen preventive measures diversion, including through enhanced stockpile management, border management, stronger cross-border cooperation. Mr. Chair, in conclusion, Rwanda remains firmly committed—","start":3248.23,"end":3426.859,"topics":[{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"RWA","affiliation_full":"Rwanda","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":21,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I thank the distinguished representative of Rwanda. I now give the floor to Greece, followed by Mexico and Japan. Greece, you have the floor.","start":3426.859,"end":3434.07,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":22,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Mr. Chair, I congratulate you for your appointment and I wish you success in your endeavors. Also allow me to commend you and your team, as well as ODA, for directing the preparatory process of the meeting in an exemplary, transparent, and inclusive way. Greece fully aligns with the statement to be delivered by the European Union and would like to add the following remarks in its national capacity. My country is highly concerned by the continuous threat that poses to international peace and security the diversion, illicit trade, and unauthorized use of small arms and light weapons and their related ammunition. We consider the UN Programme of Action as the universal framework to address the threat posed by illicit SALW and to support its full and effective implementation at national, regional, and global levels. My country is committed to the implementation of the PoA and has undertaken the appropriate actions through annual reporting and provision of additional data on arms transactions. Moreover, we remain committed to the implementation of other relevant global instruments, such as the Global Framework for Through-Life Conventional Ammunition Management and the Arms Trade Treaty. At this point, allow me to add that Greece highly values some regional relevant initiatives, including the extensive framework of the European Union on arms transfers, the EU strategy against illicit firearms, small arms, and light weapons, as well as the EU-funded arms and ammunition management validation system. In addition, we will commend the valuable work of the Southeastern and Eastern Europe Clearinghouse for the control of SALW. Mr. Sterr, Greece aspires that this meeting will contribute to the enhancement of the effectiveness of the POA, the International Traceability Instrument, and is ready to work constructively with all member states for a consensual outcome document. Greece welcomes your draft outcome document and believes that it can serve as a good basis for negotiation. In particular, we support the references related to the recent developments on SALW manufacturing, technology, and design in particular polymer and modular weapons and firearms produced using 3D printing. Moreover, we deem as important the call to strengthen cooperation between States and the private sector and industry on SAWL-related issues. In addition, we find valuable the measures related to the promotion of border cooperation, sub-regional, regional and cross-regional coordination and information sharing. To conclude, Mr. Chair, you can count on Greece's full support in your efforts to achieve consensus on the outcome document. I thank you.","start":3436.44,"end":3581.713,"topics":[{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"GRC","affiliation_full":"Greece","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":23,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you. I thank the representative of Greece. I pass the floor to Mexico, followed by Japan, followed by Finland. Distinguished representative of Mexico, you have the floor.","start":3584.509,"end":3594.807,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":24,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Muchas gracias, Presidente.","start":3595.771,"end":3596.815,"topics":[]},{"text":"Thank you very much, Chairman. My country joins other delegations in congratulating you upon your election, as well as Ambassador Cano. You should know that you certainly count on Mexico's support to make this meeting a success. Mexico reaffirms the importance of the Programme of Action and the ITI because they are the main multilateral frameworks to help prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all their aspects. Mexico believes that one of the main implementation challenges we face is the deviation of small arms and light weapons to non-authorized recipients and illicit markets. This phenomenon requires recognizing that the risk of deviation is present throughout the entire life cycle of weapons, from the moment of their manufacture to their final use or purpose. And that's why we must continue to strengthen prevention and detection measures of deviation through effective marking, registration, and localization systems, as well as controls over the transfer of them, risk assessments and the documentation of end user and end use, and the timely exchange of information. For my country, it's particularly important to advance towards approach of shared responsibility that involves all stakeholders that participate in the supply chain. Governments, industry, and the private sector must work together in order to prevent and combat the illicit trafficking trafficking and deviation of weapons. Industry has a fundamental role to play here through due diligence measures, the monitoring of their distribution chains, and self-regulation mechanisms that contribute to avoiding legally produced weapons ending up in the hands of criminal groups or non-authorized actors. Furthermore, we believe that it's necessary to maintain a balanced assessment of challenges associated with new technology. Furthermore, Mexico believes that it's fundamental to include the voices and experiences of victims and survivors of armed violence. We must better understand the physical, psychological, social, and community impacts that armed violence has on people and on the affected populations. Finally, we reiterate how important it is to continue to include a gender perspective in the implementation of the Programme of Action. This requires strengthening the compilation and analysis of disaggregated data, better understanding the differentiated impacts of armed violence on women, men, girls, and boys, and promoting the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women at all levels of decision-making. Thank you very much. Thank you, Mexico.","start":3597.201,"end":3775.13,"topics":[{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"MEX","affiliation_full":"Mexico","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":25,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I give the floor to Japan, followed by Finland and El Salvador. Japan, you have the floor.","start":3775.13,"end":3778.11,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":26,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Mr. Chair. At the outset, allow me to express my sincerest congratulations to you, Ambassador Larsen of Australia, on your election as the Chair of the 9th Biennial Meeting. I assure you of my delegation's full support and cooperation throughout this week. Mr. Chair, since its adoption, the Programme of Action has played a central role in strengthening efforts to address small arms and light weapons issues around the world. However, as the Secretary-General's report released last year confirmed, the proliferation, misuse, diversion of small arms and light weapons have remained drivers of armed violence and have caused regional insecurity, terrorism, and crime to escalate in various countries. Against this In this background, Japan, together with Colombia and South Africa, has submitted annual resolutions against illicit trade in small arms and light weapons to the General Assembly to further promote the implementation of the PoA, the most recent of which was adopted by consensus in 2025. Mr. Chair, this meeting will provide us with, with a great opportunity to give a direction to the implementation of the POA and the International Tracing Instrument based on the action-oriented measures adopted at the Fourth Review Conference in 2024. My delegation considers the circulated draft outcome document to be a good basis with its conciseness and balanced listing of concrete measures based on past consensus language. On the preamble section and Section A, Japan can support the current language in principle, including Para 15 on the complementarities between the POA/IDI and other relevant instruments. Mr. Chair, as a main contributor to the Saving Lives Entity or SLE, and fund and donor to several cooperation projects, including in Kenya, Sudan, and Western Africa. We also look forward to fruitful discussions on how to strengthen the implementation of the POA with regard to international assistance. To call for timely support to the second phase of Salient Fund, Japan supports its specific reference in paragraph 58. In concluding, Japan is ready to contribute to the successful conclusion of the meeting and reaffirm our strong commitment by adopting the outcome document by consensus. I thank you.","start":3780.89,"end":3949.634,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"JPN","affiliation_full":"Japan","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":27,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Japan. I have Finland, followed by El Salvador, followed by Malaysia. Finland, you have the floor.","start":3952.444,"end":3959.188,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":28,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Chair, Excellencies, I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic countries: Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Finland. Does it work? Yes. The illicit production, transfer, diversion, and misuse of small arms and light weapons and their ammunition continue to pose serious threats to peace, security, and sustainable development. Across regions, these weapons fuel armed conflict, organized crime, terrorism and violence, undermine state institutions and hinder peacebuilding efforts. Mr. Chair, this meeting provides a crucial opportunity to advance the effective implementation of the Programme of Action, as well as the International Tracing Instrument. More than 20 years after their adoption, these instruments remains central to international efforts to prevent and address the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, as well as achieving the 2030 Agenda. At the same time, evolving security environments require renewed commitment and concrete action. Strengthening coherence with related international frameworks is essential. The Nordic countries underscore the importance of reinforcing synergies with the Arms Trade Treaty, The Firearms Protocol and the Global Framework for Thorough Life Conventional Ammunition Management. Effective control of small arms and light weapons cannot be achieved without systematic attention to ammunition and its diversion risks. Mr. Chair, rapid technological developments are reshaping the landscape of weapons production, marking and tracing. New technologies offer significant opportunities to improve transparency tracing and accountability while also presenting new challenges. Nordic countries support efforts to better integrate relevant technologies into the implementation of the Programme of Action and the International Tracing Instrument, including through practical and forward-looking recommendations. In this context, we welcome initiatives aimed at identifying both risks and opportunities as well as developing recommendations associated with emerging technologies, including the work of the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group. Excellencies, Mr. Chair, preventing diversion remains a shared priority. Transparent and timely information sharing, including on confirmed cases of diversion, strengthens mutual trust and enhances national export control and risks assessment processes. Such cooperation is key to disrupting illicit supply chains. The impacts of illicit small arms and light weapons are deeply gendered. Women and girls are disproportionately affected by armed violence, including through gender-based violence facilitated by the availability of illicit weapons. The Nordic countries stress that gender-responsive arms control policies are not optional but indeed essential. Integrating a gender perspective across policy frameworks and ensuring the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women in decision-making contributes to more effective and sustainable peace and security outcomes. While states bear the primary responsibility for implementation, Inclusive cooperation is essential. Civil society, academia, and international organizations play an indispensable role. In this regard, we highlight the work of existing funding mechanisms and research programs such as UNSCAR-SALIENT, UNIDIR-ATT, Voluntary Trust Fund, and other regional and bilateral mechanisms for international assistance and cooperation addressing the challenges of small arms and light weapons proliferation and control. Finally, Mr. Chair, let me conclude by saying the Nordic countries strongly support the UN Programme of Action on SALVE and the International Tracing Instrument and the Arms Trade Treaty. We call on all delegations to engage constructively and show the political will necessary to deliver a balanced outcome that accelerates its implementation. We remain committed to working with all partners towards consensus. Thank you, Mr.","start":3963.865,"end":4230.113,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."}]},{"text":"Chair.","start":4230.178,"end":4230.354,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"FIN","affiliation_full":"Finland","group":"Nordic Group","function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":29,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Finland. I have El Salvador, followed by Malaysia, followed by South Africa. El Salvador, you have the floor.","start":4232.502,"end":4239.587,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":30,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Gracias, Presidente. Thank you, Chairman. Please allow me to begin by expressing our congratulations to you, Ambassador James Larsen, for your stewardship of this process and for the efforts made during the preparatory consultations that enabled us to reach this 9th biennial meeting with a results-focused approach and practical and implementable approach. El Salvador attaches a high level of importance to the Programme of Action and the ITI as the main multilateral frameworks for preventing, combating, and eradicating the illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons in all their aspects. The delegation of El Salvador has participated actively in the preparatory consultations for this meeting and appreciates that several of our priorities have been reflected in the resulting document. What's more, for us, it's fundamental to continue to strengthen measures geared towards preventing and detecting the illicit deviation of small arms and light weapons. In this regard, we attach particular importance to durable and resistant marking, the keeping of adequate registers and tracing capacities. These measures are essential if we are to avoid weapons reaching unauthorized users and to dismantle illicit trafficking routes. For us, it's also important to maintain a comprehensive approach. To the entire life cycle of small arms and light weapons, including their ammunition, parts, and components, from their manufacturing right to their final disposal. An approach of this nature would enable us to comprehensively address the different points in which deviation and illicit trafficking may occur. Chairman, we also recognize the growing relevance of emerging technologies in the context of small arms and light weapons. And this is why we appreciate progress made in this area and in particular the work of the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group, particularly their work in areas related to new production and printing techniques, resistant materials, and polymer-based technologies. In this context, we believe that tools related to the compilation and analysis of data as well as other technological applications could contribute to strengthening national capacities to prevent the illicit trafficking and detecting deviation patterns of these weapons. Chair, my delegation welcomes references to the meaningful, full, and effective participation of women in all decision-making processes related to the Programme of Action and the ITI. Thank you very much, Chairman.","start":4241.415,"end":4412.72,"topics":[{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"SLV","affiliation_full":"El Salvador","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":31,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, El Salvador. I have Malaysia, followed by South Africa, and then Italy. Malaysia, you have the floor.","start":4412.72,"end":4418.75,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":32,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Mr. Chair. Malaysia congratulates you on convening of the 9th Biennial Meeting of States and commends your able stewardship throughout the preparatory process. We also thank you and your team for your efforts in guiding our work towards a balanced, practical, and consensus-based outcome. Malaysia reaffirms its strong support for the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat, and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its aspects, as well as the International Tracing Instrument. These instruments remain central to our collective efforts to prevent the illicit trade, diversion, misuse, and uncontrolled proliferation of small arms and light weapons. The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons poses a grave threat to international peace, security, and sustainable development. Its impact is felt not only in conflict and post-conflict settings, but also in transnational organized crime, terrorism, trafficking, and armed violence. This issue requires a holistic arms control and disarmament approach combining arms control, law enforcement, conflict prevention, post-conflict peacebuilding, and socio-economic development. Malaysia underscores that the full and effective implementation of the POA requires strong national ownership supported by meaningful regional and international cooperation. Therefore, Malaysia calls upon all member states through the United Nations framework to play a larger role in curbing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. Although the PoA is not legally binding, it does provide the international community with helpful guidelines and parameters in addressing relevant challenges. Nationally, Malaysia has put in place stringent laws, administrative procedures, and regulations for the effective control over the production of small arms and light weapons, as well as over the exports, imports, transits, and retransfers of such weapons. In order to prevent illegal manufacturing and illicit trafficking of their— or their illegal diversion to unauthorized recipients. At the regional and international levels, Malaysia continues to support, participate in, and contribute to initiatives under the ASEAN framework aimed at strengthening member states' capacities to combat the illicit trade in firearms. Malaysia also places importance on capacity-building efforts to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit arms trade at the operational level Malaysia works through regional and international law enforcement mechanisms, including ASEANOPOL and Interpol, to enhance cooperation and address arms trafficking effectively. Mr. Chair, Malaysia recognizes that development in manufacturing technology and design, including polymer, modular, and illicitly produced 3D-printed firearms, present both challenges and opportunities. We support practical and technically sound discussions under the OETG anchored in the POA and ITI been implemented in line with national laws, capacities, and priorities. Addressing these developments require practical, sustainable, and inclusive responses including capacity building, technical assistance, equipment, training, and technology transfer, particularly for developing countries. Thank you, Mr. Chair.","start":4419.83,"end":4593.565,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"MYS","affiliation_full":"Malaysia","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":33,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Malaysia. I have South Africa followed by Italy followed by Indonesia. South Africa, you have the floor.","start":4595.312,"end":4601.017,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":34,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Chair. Congratulations Congratulations on your election, as well as that of the Bureau members. And South Africa would like to indicate that it aligns with the statement delivered by Nigeria on behalf of the Africa Group. Chairperson, our leaders at the 2024 Summit of the Future underscored the urgency of addressing the risks associated with illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, including their parts and ammunition. They called for strengthened national and international measures to prevent combat and eradicate this threat. The human cost of the illicit trade, circulation and diversion of small arms and light weapons remains unacceptably high, particularly for women and children across the African continent and globally. The illicit trade in these weapons continues to fuel conflict, terrorism and violent crime. Tshêpesen, it is therefore imperative that we accelerate implementation of the commitments under the Pact for the Future, the Programme of Action, the International Tracing Instrument, and relevant General Assembly resolutions. South Africa remains— reaffirms the importance of complementarity of the arms control and disarmament frameworks, including the Arms Trade Treaty and the Global Framework on Through-Life Conventional Ammunition Management, in strengthening arms control and building confidence. Addressing the root causes of the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, including socioeconomic drivers, remains essential. South Africa supports linking the POA to sustainable development objectives in general, including the 2030 Agenda and the African Union's Silencing the Guns initiative under Agenda 2063. South Africa has accordingly adopted necessary national legislative and regulatory measures as well as embarked on programs pertaining to stockpile management and destruction and marking, record keeping and tracing of small arms. South Africa is also party to the Southern African Development Community Protocol on the control of firearms, ammunition, and other related materials. We further emphasize the need for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women, including in leadership and decision-making roles across all arms control and disarmament processes. Chairperson, progress in the implementation of the POA and the ITI requires adequate capacity and sustainable financing. In this regard, we welcome the initiatives such as the Small Arms and Light Weapons Fellowship Program and proposals for a dedicated United Nations funding mechanism as ways to strengthen capacities of states and support implementation of the POA and ITI. In conclusion, technological advancements can significantly enhance efforts particularly marking, record keeping, storage, and tracing of small arms and light weapons, and ensuring equitable access to these technologies is therefore essential. I thank you.","start":4601.738,"end":4773,"topics":[{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."},{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"ZAF","affiliation_full":"South Africa","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":35,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, South Africa. I have Italy, Indonesia, and Niger. Italy, you have the floor.","start":4774.14,"end":4779.46,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":36,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Mr. Chair, I would like to congratulate you on your appointment as chair of BMS-9 and to express my gratitude to you, your team, and UNODA for the extensive and thorough preparatory work undertaken over the past few months. Mr. Chair, Italy aligns itself with the statement that will be delivered by the European Union, and I would like to add some remarks in my national capacity. Mr. Chair, the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons and their ammunition keeps playing a major role in fueling instability and armed violence, while at the same time hampering sustainable development and security prospects for many regions in the world. Too often, such weapons illegal flows contribute to feed terrorist groups, violate United Nations arms embargoes, and determine a rise in crime and widespread violence. Among the actors that contribute significantly to aggravate— to the aggravation of such situation, there is very often organized crime, a scourge that Italy, as historically been at the forefront of combating, both domestically and internationally, through a solid expertise and the excellence of our judiciary and law enforcement operators. In recent years, we have witnessed the emergence of new technologies with the potential to redefine our understanding of solve and the manner in which the international community approach their illicit trafficking, diversion, and ultimate use, but also the prevention, the monitoring, and the safeguarding measures associated with them. In this framework, the role of the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group is essential, as it provides at the same time a solid basis to grasp the benefits of technological advancements and to better understand the magnitude of the challenges associated to them. Mr. Chair, Italy is deeply committed to countering the proliferation of small arms and light weapons and the illicit application of these emerging technologies, which can act as catalysts for self-perpetuating cycles of violence that disproportionately affect already vulnerable communities in regions devastated by armed conflict and systemic brutality. Italy's efforts at the international level to combat this phenomenon are all-encompassing and aimed at identifying and addressing the root causes of small arms and light weapons proliferation, starting from the lack of opportunities for the youth, poor levels of education, corruption, and institutional instability affecting many of the regions concerned. In our action, we benefit also from a robust national and European legal framework, in line with Italy's international commitments. This provides us with the tools for a detailed and preventive action, by regulating every aspect of arms exports and assuring they abide by the strongest standards. Mr. Chair, Italy guarantees its full cooperation in countering the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. Mr. Chair, Italy remains fully committed to the United Nations framework to prevent, combat, and eradicate illicit trade of SALP. You may count on our full cooperation.","start":4782.72,"end":4960.872,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"ITA","affiliation_full":"Italy","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":37,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Italy. I have Indonesia, followed by Niger, followed by Mali, and then Brazil. Indonesia, you have the floor.","start":4966.9,"end":4973.681,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":38,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Mr. Chair. Allow me to congratulate you for your elections. We assure you of our full cooperation for a successful and balanced outcome of this 9th Biennial Meeting of States. To continue Illicit trade, diversion, and misuse of small arms and light weapons continue to pose serious challenges to peace and security at international, regional, and national level. These challenges are compounded by rapid technological developments, which make illicit transfer and diversion harder to prevent, detect, trace, and interdict. Against this background, Indonesia reaffirms the continued relevance of the Programme of Action and the international tracing instruments. Allow me to highlight the following points for our consideration. Considerations. First, the importance of effective prevention and detection through strengthened national measures. This requires strengthening national legislations, stockpile management and security, as well as monitoring mechanisms in accordance with national priorities, capacities and domestic circumstances. Indonesia has implemented robust national monitoring, licensing and regulatory measures for standard military weapons to prevent their diversion into illicit markets. We remain committed to enhancing coordination, strengthening reporting, and aligning with international best practices. We underscored that implementation of the POA must respect national sovereignty, legitimate security needs, and the right of states to develop national capabilities. Second, the significance of continued discussions on technological developments related to small arms light weapons. Indonesia supports the establishment of the open-ended technical expert group to identify feasible technical approaches, share good practices, and assist states in developing in adapting their national control systems. This work should remain balanced, practical, and responsive to differing national capacities, particularly those of developing countries. Third, the need for strengthened regional and international cooperation and assistance. Effective collaboration, including through strengthened border cooperation, intelligence sharing, and law enforcement coordination, is essential to prevent the use of illicit small arms and light weapons in transnational organized crime. Through ASEAN, Indonesia is also advancing regional efforts. The ASEAN Declaration on Combating Arms Smuggling provides a framework to intensify cooperation in preventing the cross-border illicit trade of firearms and ammunitions. We also underscored the importance of capacity building to address gaps in marking, tracing, record keeping, stockpile management, and challenges arising from emerging technologies. Long-term, non-discriminatory technical and financial assistance remains vital on this efforts. Mr. Chair, let me conclude by reiterating Indonesia's commitment to working constructively with all partners to advance the full balance and effective implementations of the POA and the ITI. Thank you, Mr. Chair.","start":4974.451,"end":5131.87,"topics":[{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"sovereignty-self-defense","label":"Sovereignty and Self-Defense","description":"A number of delegations stressed that implementation of the Programme of Action must respect state sovereignty, non-interference, and the inherent right of self-defense under the UN Charter. They warned against politicized or discriminatory restrictions on legitimate arms manufacture, import, export, and possession for national security purposes."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"IDN","affiliation_full":"Indonesia","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":39,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Indonesia. I have Mali, followed by Brazil, followed by Islamic Republic of Iran. Mali, you have the floor. Monsieur le Président.","start":5131.87,"end":5143,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":40,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Mr. Chairman, Mr. Chairman, the delegation of Mali extends its heartfelt congratulations to you on your election to steer the BMS9 Biennial Meeting. Rest assured, you have Mali's full support throughout the proceedings. Mali commends the unswerving efforts made by the UN Secretary-General, the Office of Disarmament Affairs, as well as all partners committed to this fight against small arms and light weapons. We align ourselves with the statement delivered by Nigeria on behalf of the Africa Group and the statement that will be delivered at a later stage. However, we did want to make a number of remarks in a national capacity. Mr. Chairman, the illicit trade in self is one of the main drivers of instability, insecurity, and transnational crime in the Sahel region. It fuels armed conflict, terrorism, violent extremism, transnational organized crime, as well as related trafficking. It undermines peace development and state consolidation efforts. As regards Mali, following a number of difficult years, this threat is front of mind for us. Illicit arms flows facilitate the work of criminal and terrorist groups throughout our sub-region, contributing to the suffering of civilians. They undermine the prospects of lasting stability. Confronted with the situation, the Government of Mali remains firmly committed to implementing the UN Programme of Action as well as the International Tracing Instrument, the ITI. To this end, sustained efforts have been undertaken to bolster our legal and institutional framework in Mali. As regards small arms and light weapons control, Mali in particular is continuing to build capacity of its defense and security forces. When it comes to controlling, securing, and managing arms and ammunition stockpiles, we have marking— marking mechanisms, tracing mechanisms. We're working on a cross-border basis with our neighbors and regional organizations. Last but not least, we are raising awareness amongst our communities about the dangers related to illicit arms trafficking. Mr. Chair, Mali stands convinced that no state can go it alone when it confronts these challenges. This fight requires heightened international cooperation on the basis of shared responsibility, solidarity, and respect for the sovereignty of states. Thus, we call on the international community to provide support to affected countries, in particular by providing technical and financial assistance as well as assisting national capacity building and marking and tracing technology transfer, stockpile management technology transfer, and efforts to secure borders. This is the best way to combat armed groups and terrorists, as often weapons from legal circuits fall into their hands. Mr. Chairman, we reiterate our commitment to the Programme of Action. We will stand together with the international community The speaker's microphone has been cut off.","start":5143.41,"end":5366.18,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"sovereignty-self-defense","label":"Sovereignty and Self-Defense","description":"A number of delegations stressed that implementation of the Programme of Action must respect state sovereignty, non-interference, and the inherent right of self-defense under the UN Charter. They warned against politicized or discriminatory restrictions on legitimate arms manufacture, import, export, and possession for national security purposes."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"MLI","affiliation_full":"Mali","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":41,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Mali. I have Brazil followed by Iran followed by Iraq. Brazil, you have the floor.","start":5366.84,"end":5372.39,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":42,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you. Mr. Chair, at the outset, I would like to congratulate you on your election as Chair of the 9th Biennial Meeting of States. You can count on Brazil's full support in ensuring a successful outcome to our work. Mr. Chair, across 8 biannual meetings of States and 4 review conferences, we have built a significant body of practice and understanding on the implementation of the POA. In parallel, we recall the successful adoption by the General Assembly of the Global Framework for Through-Life Conventional Ammunition Management. Brazil believes that ammunition management and firearms management are two sides of the same coin and should reinforce one another. Mr. Chair, although progress has been made, much work remains to ensure the full implementation of the POA and the ITT. Latin American and Caribbean countries face significant challenges in combating the illicit traffic of firearms and their ammunition. This is exacerbated by the rapid development of new technologies, which test the normative and operational limits of our control regimes. In this regard, the first meeting of the OETEG is an important step towards increasing our understanding of how this tech— these new technologies are being used in the illegal trade and shaping future norms before illicit practice take root. Mr. Chair, Brazil welcomes the latest version of the revised draft outcome document particularly the language concerning the gendered impacts of illicit, uh, CALW, the implementation of the marketing, record-keeping, and tracing commitments under the ITT regardless of the materials or manufacturing methods used, and establishment of national, regional, and global transfer controls to prevent diversion. There are, however, 3 points of concern. First, we wish to emphasize that the expression environmental drivers in paragraph 7 should not be interpreted as establishing a linkage between environmental issues and security matters. Second, to avoid unintended effects on national industrial sectors, we suggest the following alternative language for paragraph 48. To encourage the adoption of preventive measures by industry to address the diversion of small arms and light weapons through commercial supply chains. Finally, Brazil would appreciate clarification regarding the use of expression illicit markets, as in our understanding, illicit trade would be the more appropriate term for describing the production, distribution, and trade of goods prohibited by law. Mr. Chair, we look forward to maintaining a positive trajectory as we confront emerging issues. Thank you.","start":5375.379,"end":5552.036,"topics":[{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"BRA","affiliation_full":"Brazil","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":43,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Brazil. I have Iran followed by Iraq, China, and Pakistan. Iran, you have the floor.","start":5554.089,"end":5560.135,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":44,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Distinguished delegates, the POA on small arms and light weapons remains the only universal consensus framework addressing the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects. Its continued relevance depends on its balanced, effective, and comprehensive implementation at the national, regional, and international level. As a victim of foreign-backed terrorism and a country directly affected by organized crime and drug trafficking linked to the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, Iran attaches great importance to the PoA and ITI. Iran has established the necessary legal and institutional frameworks to combat illicit trafficking and related crimes and has strengthened regional cooperation with neighboring countries. Since 2003, Iran has submitted 11 national reports, most recently in 2026, detailing these efforts. My delegation reaffirms that the Charter of the United Nations, in particular Article 51 upholds the sovereign and inherent right of states to acquire, manufacture, import, export, and retain conventional arms for legitimate self-defense and security needs. At the same time, we remain gravely concerned by the continued expansion of the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, particularly the cross-border trafficking of these weapons, which undermine national security and sovereignty and facilitate terrorism and organized crimes. As recognized in the POA, effectively addressing this challenge requires tackling the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons from both supply and demand perspectives. In this context, producing and exporting states bear a particular responsibility to strengthen measures aimed at preventing cross-border illicit trafficking, including through enhanced efforts to trace and disrupt illicit trafficking routes and networks. Regarding the outcome document, my delegation wishes to highlight 4 important elements. First, reaffirming commitment to international law and the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, including sovereign equality, territorial integrity, non-intervention, the peaceful settlement of disputes, and refraining from the threat or use of force. Second, avoiding the introduction of new elements and terminologies that expand the scope of the POA and ITI. Third, avoiding references to complementarity between the POA and other instruments. And fourth, recalling the voluntary nature of the measures contained in the outcome document. Thank you.","start":5562.284,"end":5718.407,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"sovereignty-self-defense","label":"Sovereignty and Self-Defense","description":"A number of delegations stressed that implementation of the Programme of Action must respect state sovereignty, non-interference, and the inherent right of self-defense under the UN Charter. They warned against politicized or discriminatory restrictions on legitimate arms manufacture, import, export, and possession for national security purposes."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"IRN","affiliation_full":"Iran (Islamic Republic of)","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":45,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Iran. I have Iraq followed by China followed by Pakistan. Iraq, you have the floor.","start":5720.799,"end":5726.323,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":46,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Mr. Chair. At the outset, we would like to congratulate you on assuming the presidency of the BMS-9. We would also like to align ourselves to the statement of the Arab Group. Mr. Chair, the phenomenon of the illicit proliferation of small arms and light weapons remains a grave challenge threatening international peace and security. It leads to intensified armed violence and ignites conflicts. It also has widespread humanitarian, economic, and social repercussions. In this vein, the Secretary-General's report contained in Document S/2025/670 notes that the illicit trade in such weapons, their diversion, and use in illegal ways is the primary factor fueling violence, crimes, and terrorism on the national, regional, and international levels. Therefore, Iraq stresses the importance of promoting multilateralism, intensifying— and intensifying international cooperation to effectively implement the POA and ITI. This would curb the proliferation of small arms and light weapons while addressing their growing repercussions. On the national level, Iraq continues its effort to combat illicit trade in such weapons while controlling their possession. Promote relevant legislative and executive measures, foremost enacting the Weapons Law Number 51 of the year 2017. The Standing Committee for Weapons Control continues its effort to limit the weapons in the hands of the state. We take the necessary practical measures to curb this phenomenon and promote the monitoring of weapons transfer to support peace and stability in Iraq. Following 25 years since the adoption of the POA, the challenges related to the proliferation of small weapon— small and light weapons continue. Therefore, we have to continue the development of the implementation and monitoring mechanisms, promote international cooperation, and build capacity, especially in developing countries. Iraq believes that we must take into consideration the differences in the technical capabilities and legal frameworks among countries while addressing technological development in marking and tracing facing such weapons. To conclude, Iraq looks forward to adopting a consensual outcome document in support of the PoA and the ITI. We further stress the importance of adhering to the agreed-upon mandate pursuant to the PoA.","start":5729.69,"end":5886.87,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."}]},{"text":"Thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you, Iraq. I have China followed by Pakistan. China, you have the floor.","start":5886.87,"end":5895.09,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"IRQ","affiliation_full":"Iraq","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":47,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Through the Chair, the Chinese delegation congratulates you on your election as Chair, and we will support your work. China is pleased to note the positive progress achieved by the international community in the implementation of the Programme of Action and the ITI. China has always supported and participated in global governance of small arms and light weapons in an active and constructive way and fulfilled its international obligations in earnest. Chair, control of SALW is both a security issue and an issue of development and governance. President Xi Jinping of China has put forward the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Governance Initiative initiative providing China's solutions for the international community to address the illicit trade in SAO. Here, China would like to offer 3 proposals. First, put mentality first and eliminate the root causes of conflict. We must firmly uphold multilateralism, leverage the role of the U.N. as the core platform of global governance, and safeguard the international arms control system with the U.N. at its core. We should uphold the ideal of establishing a community with a shared future, uphold a common comprehensive a cooperative and sustainable security concept, resolve security dilemmas through dialogue and cooperation, eradicate the breeding ground of extremism and violent conflict through practical measures, and promote economic development and social stability in countries so as to create conditions for fundamentally resolving the issue of Sahel. Second, be action-oriented and fulfill responsibilities and obligations. Countries should develop comprehensive and robust domestic regulatory systems and sound and efficient interagency cooperative cooperation mechanisms. Countries should also adopt responsible arms export policies, earnestly fulfill their respective international obligations, exercise prudence in exporting weapons to conflict regions, and commit not to transfer weapons to non-state actors. In this regard, major arms exporters, especially some major powers, should play a leading role. In February this year, China released a new version of its Military Products Export Control List First, further improving its domestic regulatory system, aligning with international rules, and demonstrating China's emphasis on the global process of controlling SAR. Third, keep pace with the times and promote international cooperation. China advocates technology for good, supports the use of technologies such as AI and big data to help countries enhance regulatory capabilities, and opposes the illegal abuse of technologies such as 3D printing and modular firearms manufacturing. Forward to more valuable insights from the technical experts group at this meeting. We support all parties in strengthening exchange and cooperation under the UN framework and calls on capable countries to provide more financial, technical, and intellectual support to the Global South. The full version of our statement will be submitted for posting. Thank you.","start":5895.09,"end":6074.956,"topics":[{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"CHN","affiliation_full":"China","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":48,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, China. I have Pakistan, followed by Niger, followed by Colombia, followed by Cuba.","start":6076.494,"end":6081.029,"topics":[]},{"text":"Pakistan, you have the floor. Thank you, Chair.","start":6081.67,"end":6084.65,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":49,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"The illicit transfer and unchecked use of small arms and light weapons, including the destabilizing accumulation, have a direct impact on intensifying and prolonging conflicts, endangering socioeconomic progress, and undermining the prospects of peace and security, particularly at the regional and sub-regional Small arms and light weapons have emerged as instruments of choice for non-state actors to perpetrate violence. These concerns are further exacerbated by the increasing sophistication of illicit arms and the accessibility of modernized weapons to illegal armed groups that frequently operate across national borders. Illicit arms arms, thus directly threaten national security, impede counter-terrorism operations and civilian protection. Pakistan is seriously concerned about the presence of stockpiles of sophisticated arms and ammunition in Afghanistan, as also noted in the findings of the Secretary-General's reports. These weapons pose a direct threat to neighboring countries, including Pakistan. We urge stronger international efforts to prevent access of illicit arms to armed terrorist groups in Afghanistan and to ensure that the Taliban adhere to their international obligations and commitments in that regard. Security Council Resolution 2818 of March 2026 also called for, and I quote, regional and international efforts to prevent and address the illicit trade in and destabilizing accumulation of small arms and light weapons and their diversion in Afghanistan and the region. End quote. Chair, we firmly believe that the issue of illicit small arms and light weapons should be addressed comprehensively and in a balanced manner. The UN Programme of Action strikes a balance between the legitimate security requirements of States and the imperatives to address the issue of illicit arms on both the supply and demand sides. We remain committed to its implementation at the national level and call for its full implementation at the global level to safeguard and promote international and regional peace and security. Thank you, Chair.","start":6085.49,"end":6233.782,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"sovereignty-self-defense","label":"Sovereignty and Self-Defense","description":"A number of delegations stressed that implementation of the Programme of Action must respect state sovereignty, non-interference, and the inherent right of self-defense under the UN Charter. They warned against politicized or discriminatory restrictions on legitimate arms manufacture, import, export, and possession for national security purposes."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"PAK","affiliation_full":"Pakistan","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":50,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Pakistan. Niger, followed by Colombia. Followed by Cuba. Niger, you have the floor.","start":6235.709,"end":6241.06,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":51,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Merci, Mr.","start":6243.81,"end":6244.089,"topics":[]},{"text":"Chairman. At the outset, if I may, I'd like to congratulate you on the way in which you're steering the work of this BMS9, the Biennial Meeting of States on the UNPOA, and the ITI as well. We align ourselves with the statement delivered on behalf of the Africa Group. We'd like to make the following remarks in a national capacity. The illicit trade in SALV remains one of the main drivers of instability in the Sahel region. It fuels terrorism, transnational organized crime, armed conflict, community-based violence, as well as violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law. Civilians, in particular women, young people, and children, are paying the highest price. Therefore, we reiterate our commitment to the Programme of Action and the International Tracing Instrument, a key framework for improving tracing and other aspects of the fight against SALV through our National Commission for the Collection and Management of Illicit— SALV is doing the work. We're working with our customs authorities, with the judiciary, and all other relevant stakeholders to improve data collection, tracing, tracking, and the fight against the illicit trade in these weapons. Mr. Chairman. At the outset, I would like to speak to international capacity building and regional capacity building, especially as regards border control, technical assistance, the list goes on. No state can go it alone when faced with criminal networks which know no borders. Second, modular arms, polymer weapons, and 3D-printed arms— these are developments which call for tailored responses, especially as regards the capacity for detection into ALIA. Third, women, young people, and civil society need to be involved in national policies aimed at countering the proliferation of self. This is a priority for our government. Their participation strengthens prevention, community participation, and peacebuilding. Therefore, Niger would like to call for heightened international assistance that's also predictable and lasts, especially as regards the chain of custody, the destruction of weapons, and modernization of marking and tracing systems. Mr. Chairman, by way of conclusion, we reaffirm our strong commitment to multilateralism and all initiatives that aim to prevent, combat, and curb the illicit trade in itself in all of its aspects. We call for cooperation in good faith within the framework of our efforts to combat these illicit weapons. I thank you.","start":6244.089,"end":6411.304,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"NER","affiliation_full":"Niger","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":52,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Niger. I have Colombia followed by Cuba, then Luxembourg. Colombia, you have the floor.","start":6412.49,"end":6418.009,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":53,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Gracias, señor presidente. Thank you, Chairman. I'd just like to make the most of this opportunity to applaud you upon your election and wish you every success in the work this week. Chairman, Colombia believes that the review of the implementation of the Programme of Action and of the international trading instrument must start from a clear reality. There are still implementation gaps that allow the illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons to quickly adapt to our responses. On a global level, the illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons continues to fuel armed violence, particularly against women and girls and children, transnational organized crime, human trafficking, drug trafficking, and other illicit economies. Furthermore, arms continue to end up in the hands of minors, fueling cycles of violence, weakening the social fabric, and eroding the cohesion and development capacities of our communities. We, Chairman, must not remain indifferent to this reality. Colombia knows well the effects of this issue, and that's why we recognize the urgency of addressing the availability, the deviation, and illicit circulation of these weapons from a comprehensive perspective. Despite significant regulatory progress, there are still significant challenges in the effective application of these instruments. The full implementation of these frameworks is not only a political commitment, but rather an essential condition to strengthen security. Colombia, as a country that's directly affected by these dynamics, has made progress in strengthening its control systems. In particular, we have set forth the module for the tracing of arms Munitions and Explosives, that the MORAF module that enables us to consolidate technical information on seized weapons to support criminal investigations to identify possible trafficking routes, reoffending patterns, and cases of deviation including from state or private arsenals. However, it's also necessary to recognize that the phenomenon is evolving. The growing availability of modular weapons chemical components, polymers, and non-traditional manufacturing methods is challenging regulatory frameworks that currently exist and reducing the efficacy of traditional control mechanisms. There's also the fact that this must be a cross-cutting priority for member states. Chairman, the value of instruments is measured by their real ability to stem deviation and non-violence. That's why it's important to move towards a more effective, coherent, measurable, and tailored implementation of these instruments tailored to current realities. Thank you very much, Chair.","start":6419.15,"end":6588.33,"topics":[{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"COL","affiliation_full":"Colombia","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":54,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Colombia. I have Cuba followed by Luxembourg followed by Togo. Cuba, you have the floor.","start":6588.63,"end":6594.13,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":55,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Gracias, Señor Presidente.","start":6596.15,"end":6597.53,"topics":[]},{"text":"Thank you, Chairman. Please accept our congratulations upon your election to preside over this 9th Biennial Meeting of States to consider the implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its aspects. Our congratulations are also extended to the members of the Bureau, to the chairs of the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group, and the Secretariat. Thank you all for your work. We vest our trust in you to successfully deliver a consensus-based, inclusive final document that contributes to progress in the universal implementation of the Program of Action chair. Cuba maintains a firm commitment to the Program of Action that's an international benchmark to prevent combat and eliminate the trafficking of small arms and light weapons. We call for its mandate to be fully respected and it to be implemented on a global, regional, and national level. It's necessary to establish synergies between the Program of Action and instruments, instruments that do not have international consensus will not contribute to progress. It's also— there's also easily manipulable parts that introduce double standards to legitimate defense as well as the rights to manufacture, import, and store small arms and light weapons for countries' legitimate defense and security needs. Given the final document of this biennial meeting, any proposal geared towards establishing national or regional goals must preserve its voluntary nature and bear in mind keep in mind the capacities, legal frameworks, priorities, and needs that are unique to each country. In principle, we agree with the goal of paragraph 8-bis of draft 2. Differences in the nature and manifestation of the trafficking in small arms and light weapons, as well as the security capacities of each region, show that there are no— there's no single formula to address this phenomenon. We also must recognize recognize differences in the capacities of different states to implement the program and the international tracing instrument. While the illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons involves different actors, we must not forget the ultimate responsibility of national governments in the adoption of measures to prevent, combat, and eliminate this scourge in respect to sovereignty of states and their relevant international obligations. That's why we are not in in favor of the listing of relevant actors participating in the process, but we must also— always work towards consensus from a constructive point of view. On paragraphs 24— 42 and 48, rather, we maintain our conviction that in order to eradicate the illicit trafficking in small arms and light weapons, we do not require new tools that involve more administrative costs for developing countries. It is essential to address the root socioeconomic causes that bring about these phenomena and to strengthen cooperation. The speaker's microphone was cut off, say the interpreters.","start":6597.87,"end":6778.34,"topics":[{"key":"sovereignty-self-defense","label":"Sovereignty and Self-Defense","description":"A number of delegations stressed that implementation of the Programme of Action must respect state sovereignty, non-interference, and the inherent right of self-defense under the UN Charter. They warned against politicized or discriminatory restrictions on legitimate arms manufacture, import, export, and possession for national security purposes."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"CUB","affiliation_full":"Cuba","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":56,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you very much indeed, Cuba. I have Luxembourg followed by Togo followed by Ghana. Luxembourg, you have the floor. Monsieur le Président. Mr.","start":6779.23,"end":6788.73,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":57,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Chairman, at the outset, I'd like to extend our heartfelt congratulations Congratulations on your appointment to chair this meeting. Luxembourg is following very closely the illicit trade in these weapons. We're constantly bolstering our capacity to respond to the threats and challenges posed by the illicit use of SALV. To this end, Luxembourg has overhauled its judicial police They now answer to a special section of the judicial police. We're trying to ensure full arms control, systematic tracing, and also the provision of scientific assistance in the area of these weapons and ammunition. We have 4 strategic priorities, in particular the overhaul of our IT system and the strengthening of ballistics within the framework of scientific studies in order to heighten the effectiveness In the context of our efforts to combat trafficking and the violence produced by firearms, Luxembourg has systematically ensured DNA tracing into alia of these seized weapons. The identification not only of the perpetrators of crimes but also those responsible, those heading up these trafficking networks, is also a priority. Last but not least, we are updating our legislation to ensure proper oversight of certain kinds of organized crime, including firearms trafficking. On the technical front, Luxembourg is continuing close cooperation with relevant private sector and industry players, especially as regards expertise, so as to build our capacity on explosives and firearms, especially as regards ballistics, lethality analysis. The list goes on. Turning now to awareness raising. Luxembourg is, uh, making available training sessions so that agents can learn about certain kinds of investigations and bolster their knowledge of certain kinds of firearms and the ammunition that goes with them. In 2022, Luxembourg created a new legal framework regulating firearms. Now, this is a strict legal instrument. Non-compliance therewith can result in very heavy criminal penalties. Moreover, Luxembourg is currently working to set up a specific legal framework for military weapons to build on existing legislation and therefore ensure better control of sales.","start":6788.73,"end":6949.67,"topics":[{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"LUX","affiliation_full":"Luxembourg","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":58,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I thank you. Thank you, Luxembourg. I have Togo followed by Ghana followed by Suriname. Togo, you have the floor.","start":6949.67,"end":6957.39,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":59,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Chairman, if I may, please allow me to congratulate you first of all warmly upon your election to chair this 9th biennial meeting. The Togolese delegation assures you of our full support and our constructive cooperation throughout your work. We also welcome the election of the chairs of the open-ended technical expert group, and we express our heartfelt congratulations to them and our unwavering support to them in their role. 5 years after the adoption of the Programme of Action and 21 years after the adoption of the International Tracing Instrument, small arms and light weapons continue to be the main vehicle of armed violence in Africa. They fuel terrorism and violent extremism, transnational organized crime. They extend conflict and hinder humanitarian access and every day claim tragic losses in human lives. Unfortunately, these are real weapons of mass destruction in Africa. Togo has come to this biennial meeting with a firm willingness to move from political commitments to concrete and measurable results on the ground. Our position is in line with the common African position and its line on the statement made by the representative of Nigeria on behalf of the African Group. Chairman, before we present our essential priorities, it's important for my delegation to underscore the absolute duty incumbent on states to defend their population from growing threats. This legitimate right shrined in Article 71 of the Charter, must not be undermined by the scourge of the illicit trade in SALW that feeds violent terrorism and chaos. We must work to mercilessly repress the trade in small arms and light weapons. When it comes to our priorities, we— you can and find developments related to this in the statement that we will publish. And ultimately, it's the need to consolidate national implementation and then to strengthen marking, registration, and traceability of weapons. And we are also calling for relentlessly combating the deviation of weapons, the majority of which come still from official stocks, either through through theft or other means. And we also call for exploiting the potential of new technology. Togo insists on equitable access to technology transfer and strengthening the capacities of African countries. And we believe that the technical expert group can play a role here. By way of conclusion, Chairman, the Togolese delegation is will commit constructively to the negotiations on the final document, and we will hope to ensure that through each paragraph we will achieve more peaceful communities for our coexistence together.","start":6962.289,"end":7142.318,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"sovereignty-self-defense","label":"Sovereignty and Self-Defense","description":"A number of delegations stressed that implementation of the Programme of Action must respect state sovereignty, non-interference, and the inherent right of self-defense under the UN Charter. They warned against politicized or discriminatory restrictions on legitimate arms manufacture, import, export, and possession for national security purposes."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"TGO","affiliation_full":"Togo","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":60,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you very much. Thank you, Togo, very much. Ghana, Suriname, followed by Cameroon.","start":7142.398,"end":7149.27,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":61,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Ghana, you have the floor. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, Ghana aligns itself with the statement from the African Group. Ghana welcomes the convening of the 9th Biennial Meeting of States to consider the implementation of the Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons and congratulates the Chairman Chairman and members of your group to the Bureau, Ghana affirms its unwavering commitment to the full and effective implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its aspects and the international tracing instruments. Mr. Chair, Ghana is glad to outline the following our efforts to implement the United Nations Programme of Action. One, national implementation. Ghana continues to strengthen its national legal and institutional framework on small arms and munitions as the draft bill is currently undergoing consideration by the Ministry of the Interior and is set to be passed into law soon. I move to the second regional cooperation. The proliferation of small arms and light weapons remains a major threat to peace and security in West Africa, particularly in the Sahel. Ghana supports ECOWAS-led initiatives including ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons and calls for enhanced cross-border cooperation, information sharing, and joint cooperation to disrupt trafficking networks. 3, international cooperation and assistance. We appreciate support from bilateral and multilateral partners in capacity building and stockpile management. However, more targeted assistance is needed for border management, digital tracing systems, and the destruction of stockpile surplus and confiscated firearms as well as obsolete munitions. Ghana calls for predictable and sustainable funding mechanisms under the UN framework to support efforts, including the upcoming destruction of weapons in Ghana. Four, emerging issues. Ghana is considered among— Ghana is concerned about the diversion of small arms to non-state actors and the links between illicit arms trafficking and terrorism, organized crime, and illicit financial flows. We stress the need for gender-responsive approaches and the inclusion of youth and women in small arms efforts. I thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.","start":7150.009,"end":7328.64,"topics":[{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"GHA","affiliation_full":"Ghana","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":62,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Ghana. I have Cameroon, followed by Türkiye, followed by the Philippines and the Russian Federation. Cameroon, you have the floor.","start":7330.14,"end":7336.74,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":63,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Mr. Chairman, my delegation would like to commend your leadership and your election. We are speaking as a country committed to combating the trade in self, a scourge which is undermining our societies, leaving people bereaved, meaning this battle is more pressing than ever. We'd like to draw your attention to four priorities for our collective action. First, the sea is not a liquid border where our responsibility evaporates. Every year, entire shipments transit over the sea, and there are small arms transiting in containers, merchant vessels, in shadow fleets. Traffickers are exploiting this. Therefore, we would like to call on the Office of Disarmament Affairs to to create a guide for the river police and coast guards. Second, the IARMS, the IBIN, and the Arsenal databases run by Interpol are very important. However, only 40% of member states contribute to it regularly, and we know the reasons for this: limited internet connectivity, the language barriers, the list goes on. We need to ensure that Interpol lists of the least developed countries. For instance, we could improve interface interoperability. We could translate them into the main languages of Africa. Next, 3D polymer weapons mean that it is very difficult to mark weapons. However, the most pressing challenge are handcrafted weapons. They are produced locally. And according to UNIDIR, they account for 40% of weapons seized in the Sahel and Great Lakes region. We need to address this particular class of weapons. Fourth, diversion doesn't begin at the border. It begins when there are national stockpiles which are not properly guarded. There is often complicity on the part of law enforcement. We, therefore, need to ensure that there's better alignment with the Kinshasa Convention and the ECOWAS Declaration. Mr. Chairman, my delegation would like to recall that behind every illicit weapon that has not been traced properly, there's a broken life. We need to ensure that we do not look away in indifference.","start":7338.61,"end":7494.33,"topics":[{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"CMR","affiliation_full":"Cameroon","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":64,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I thank you. Thank you, Cameroon. I have Türkiye followed by the Philippines and the Russian Federation. Türkiye, you have the floor. Thank you, Mr.","start":7494.33,"end":7502.97,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":65,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Chair. I would like to congratulate you on your appointment as the chair. Secretary General Guterres, Turkey appreciates the inclusive and transparent manner in which the preparatory process has been conducted and assures you of my delegation's full support. The illicit trade and uncontrolled proliferation of small arms and light weapons and their ammunition continue to constitute a serious threat to international peace and security. These challenges fuel armed violence, terrorism, organized crime, and regional instability, while also undermining socioeconomic development efforts. Efforts. Located in a region exposed to multiple interconnected security threats, Türkiye remains particularly concerned about the diversion of small arms and light weapons and ammunition to terrorist organizations. Preventing such diversion must remain a priority of the international community. In our view, the outcome document should clearly underline the role of POA in supporting international counterterrorism efforts and contain strong language against diversion of small arms and light weapons to terrorist actors. Türkiye reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the full and effective implementation of PAA and ITI. We believe these frameworks remain indispensable instruments in addressing evolving challenges related to illicit trafficking. In this regard, Türkiye underlines the importance of strengthening international cooperation, information sharing, and capacity-building efforts, including the fields of stockpile management, tracing, marking, and export controls. We also recognize the growing impact of technological developments on the nature of illicit trafficking. The increasing use of emerging technologies, including AI-enhanced systems used for detection and tracing, presents both new risks and new opportunities. We therefore support the continued discussion within the relevant UN frameworks on the implementation of technological developments in manufacturing, design, and trafficking methods. We welcome the establishment of the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group to assess how technological developments affect the implementation of 2POA and ITA, and looks forward to its successful outcome. At the same time, any international efforts in this field should remain state-led, consensus-based, and fully respectful of the legitimate security concerns and sovereign rights of states. Turkey considers effective marking, record-keeping and tracing as core elements of the ITI. Reliable records and timely exchange of information are indispensable for identifying diversion points, supporting criminal investigations, and strengthening accountability. Türkiye also emphasized the importance of effective national export control systems, prior risk assessments, and end-user assurance in preventing diversion and illicit transfers. Furthermore, practical cooperation and assistance programs aimed at enhancing national capacities, particularly in regions affected.","start":7502.97,"end":7679.619,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"sovereignty-self-defense","label":"Sovereignty and Self-Defense","description":"A number of delegations stressed that implementation of the Programme of Action must respect state sovereignty, non-interference, and the inherent right of self-defense under the UN Charter. They warned against politicized or discriminatory restrictions on legitimate arms manufacture, import, export, and possession for national security purposes."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"TUR","affiliation_full":"Türkiye","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":66,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Türkiye. I have the Philippines, followed by Russian Federation, followed by Burkina Faso.","start":7683.734,"end":7689.991,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":67,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Philippines, you have the floor. Mr. Chair, the Philippines comes to this meeting with a clear conviction The illicit trade, diversion, and misuse of small arms and light weapons are questions of public safety, accountable governance, border security, community protection, human rights, peacebuilding, and sustainable development. The Philippines believes that preventing the illicit trade and diversion of small arms and light weapons requires a whole-of-government, whole-of-society, and whole-of-life cycle approach grounded in international cooperation, regional partnership, and practical implementation. For the Philippines, effective small arms control must cover the full, full life cycle of a weapon from manufacture to final disposal. Each stage carries risk of diversion. Each stage also offers opportunities for prevention, cooperation, and stronger governance. At the national level, the Philippines continues to strengthen interagency coordination as a foundation for implementation. Our experience shows that effective small arms arms control requires sustained cooperation among foreign affairs, law enforcement, customs defense, strategic trade management, border authorities, prosecution services, and other relevant agencies. It also requires trusted partnership with civil society, communities, academia, and technical experts. The Philippines supports stronger national legal and administrative frameworks, improved information exchange, and the responsible use of technology to strengthen marking record keeping, tracing, and diversion detection. These technological measures must be accompanied by capacity building, institutional development, training, data protection, and sustainable resources. Mr. Chair, as the 2026 chair of ASEAN, the Philippines attaches importance to regional cooperation as confidence-building measure. In Southeast Asia, illicit arms flows intersect with terrorism, transnational organized crime, maritime security, porous borders, post-conflict transitions, and community-level armed violence. These challenges require cooperation, trust, and shared responsibility. The Philippines supports stronger regional and sub-regional coordination, including peer-to-peer exchanges among customs, police, licensing, border, and regulatory authorities. We welcome ASEAN's continuing work on combating arms and smuggling, and encourage closer complementarity between regional initiative and global framework. In this spirit, the Philippines continues to champion the development of a regional roadmap towards a regional mechanism on weapons regulation in Asia-Pacific. This roadmap seeks to translate shared concern into practical cooperation, improving dialogue among national agencies, strengthening implementation capacity, supporting confidence-building measure, in creating pathways for sustained regional coordination on arms and ammunition control. As BMS-9 considered the challenges posed by new development in manufacturing, technology, and design, including polymer, modular, and 3D-printed firearms, the Philippines supports practical discussions that help all states strengthen implementation of the I thank the Philippines very much indeed.","start":7690.655,"end":7887.655,"topics":[{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"PHL","affiliation_full":"Philippines","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":68,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I have the Russian Federation, followed by Burkina Faso, followed by Australia, then Germany. Russian Federation, you have the floor.","start":7887.832,"end":7896.458,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":69,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Mr. Chairman, distinguished colleagues, the Russian Federation attaches priority importance to the whole host of issues related to the implementation of the UN Programme of Action to prevent, combat, and eradicate SALV, as well as the International Tracing Instrument to identify and trace in a timely and reliable manner SALV. We believe that this, this REVCON will be an important milestone as the international community seeks to combat the illicit proliferation of weapons. We call on colleagues to build on the positive momentum, momentum that's been created on combating the illicit trade itself, momentum we achieved thanks to the BMS 9 and the RevCon in 2022 and 2024 respectively. It's worth noting that a number of important provisions contained in the outcome documents, documents of both the RevCon and the BMS, were reflected in UNGA resolutions. 79/40 dated 2nd of December 2024 and 80/38 dated 1st December 2025. We stand convinced that the work to bolster the practical benefits stemming from the program of action remain relevant. This requires us to continue our focused discussions on how to develop effective measures to prevent, uh, SALV being diverted into the illicit trade. SALV SALVs continue to be one of the most frequently used types of weapons in regional and local conflicts, which results in countless human casualties. Terrorist, criminal, and extremist groups are constantly broadening their illegal SALV arsenals and enhancing their qualitative parameters. The uncontrolled proliferation of SALVs is fueled by the fact that in some states and regions there are conflicts which persist, as well as gaps in national export control regimes, on top of cross-border corruption and criminal schemes. Often interstate transfers of SALV result in non-state entities getting their hands on them, and frequently the supplier, focused on profit-seeking and other short-term considerations, whether they be military, political, or otherwise, well, the supplier does not even think about where and to what end the shipment of SALV they're sending will end up in— a shipment subject to export controls— nor do they think about in whose hands they will ultimately fall, we call for additional measures to be taken, in particular a universal ban on the transfer of all kinds of self— the transfer thereof to entities that have not been authorized to receive them by the recipient states. A whole host of other additional measures must be undertaken, and these will be reflected in full in the statement we will deliver. The speaker's microphone has been cut off. I thank the Russian Federation.","start":7896.458,"end":8078.517,"topics":[{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"RUS","affiliation_full":"Russian Federation","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":70,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I have Burkina Faso, followed by Australia, followed by Germany.","start":8079.261,"end":8082.237,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":71,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Burkina Faso, you have the floor.","start":8085.28,"end":8089.225,"topics":[]},{"text":"The delegation of Burkina Faso would like to congratulate you on your election to chair this 9th biennial meeting. Mr. Chairman, in the Sahel region, criminal networks and terrorist groups as well as cross-border trafficking are fueled by the uncontrolled flow of salve. The Confederation of Sahel States and its members are therefore working to combat this illicit trade to break these circuits which are profiting criminals. In order to do this, we've bolstered our system aimed at combating these types of weapons through our National Weapons and Ammunition Management Strategy. We've bolstered our legal framework, marking and tracing. We've improved stockpiling controls and chain of custody controls. We've bolstered the capacity of our army and our defense forces. We are collecting data on and seizing such weapons, and this work is ongoing. We're also raising awareness in communities about the dangers related to small arms and light weapons. Mr. Chairman, Burkina Faso, as well as its partners within the framework of the Sahel States Confederation, is calling for heightened international cooperation underpinned by shared responsibility and solidarity. To that end, Burkina Faso would like to call for greater technical assistance for countries affected by terrorism, as well as greater cooperation on arms tracing, in addition to better control over arms transfers, with a view to preventing these being diverted and falling into the hands of terrorism. We call for greater support for the border management and chain of custody programs—chain of custody for seized weapons. The Confederation of Sahel States believes that it's absolutely necessary to factor in the specific reality of Sahel States when mounting the international response to this scourge. The fight against these weapons is inextricably linked to the challenge of development, governance, the fight against poverty, as well as the need to tackle humanitarian crises, which are making certain countries, certain populations more vulnerable. Mr. Chairman, the Confederation of Sahel States stands convinced that it is only through coordinated, collective, and balanced action that we will be able to reduce the illicit flows of arms and restore peace, security, and stability in the Sahel and all over the world. What's particularly important is ensuring— the speaker's microphone has been cut I thank Burkina Faso.","start":8089.225,"end":8271.84,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"BFA","affiliation_full":"Burkina Faso","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":72,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I give the floor to Australia, followed by Germany, then Suriname.","start":8271.84,"end":8275.38,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":73,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Australia, you have the floor. Thank you, Chair. Australia remains committed to thwarting the diversion of illicit small arms and light weapons. The deadly anti-Semitic terrorist attack in Sydney in December last year was a national tragedy. Australia's response has aimed to address the motivation and method behind the attack by strengthening our gun laws small arms, and cracking down on hate speech. Our domestic efforts go hand in hand with global efforts to implement the Programme of Action. Chair, UN figures show that in 2024, small arms were responsible for up to 30% of the 48,000 conflict-related civilian deaths. This underscores the challenge before us, and UNODA's finding that 70 to 90% of conflict-related sexual violence involves small arms and light weapons demonstrates a particularly tragic dimension to the problems we face in the illicit diversion of small arms and light weapons. Chair, in addressing the gaps created by technological innovation while also seizing opportunities technology offers to combat the diversion of small arms and light weapons is a critical focus of BMS 9. We welcome the first open-ended technical expert group meetings this week and encourage all states to engage actively. The rapid spread of 3D-printed firearms and components is placing untraceable ghost guns into the hands of those with nefarious intent. These weapons, lacking serial numbers or markings, pose a growing threat that demands collective response. In Australia, we have acted domestically by criminalizing the possession of blueprints for 3D-printable weapons, an example of the kind of forward-leaning legislative measures needed to stay ahead of this challenge. At the same time, technological advances are strengthening our ability to trace weapons. In Australia, we have successfully applied forensic techniques to recover obliterated markings and reinforce this effort through legislation that criminalizes tampering with firearm identifiers. Our National Firearms Identification Database provides a critical platform for tracing, and we are now leveraging innovations such as smart water technology to track the movement of firearms and ammunition.. Together, these tools demonstrate how we can outpace illicit diversion. We encourage all states to make full use of the available legislative and technological solutions to meet the evolving threat. Chair, Australia recognizes that cooperation and assistance at the regional level are essential if flows of illicit weapons are to be disrupted. We were pleased to participate in the first Asia-Pacific UN Fellowship training program in SALW held in Jabalpur, India earlier this year. We thank and commend UNODA and the UNRCPD and India for the success of this program. Thank you.","start":8275.38,"end":8434.83,"topics":[{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":74,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Australia. I have Germany followed by Suriname followed by France followed by Ukraine. Germany, you have the floor.","start":8437.009,"end":8443.177,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":75,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Mr. Chair, let me join previous speakers in congratulating you, Ambassador Larsen, upon your appointment as Chair of the 9th BSA. Madam, we thank you and your team for the excellent preparation of this meeting. My delegation fully aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the European Union. I will add the following remarks in our national capacity. Last year's Secretary General's report to the Security Council once again confirmed that the misuse and illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons remain key drivers of armed violence, increasing regional insecurity, terrorism, and organized crime. Given its profound consequences for both human security as well as regional stability, it is essential that the challenges emanating from the illicit proliferation of small arms, light weapons, and conventional ammunition are discussed in the Security Council at a regular basis. If elected to the Security Council for the period 2027-2028, Germany will partner with like-minded members to ensure this essential topic remains high on the agenda of the Council. The PUA stands out among international arms control instruments as a cooperative forum focused on identifying the best approaches for a common goal. Let us maintain this constructive spirit of compromise and make good use of this 9th BSM in order to strengthen its implementation. It is high time that we can finally start discussing consequences and potential remedies for body systems illicitly manufactured, craft-produced, and 3D-printed firearms and components, and other challenges in a dedicated technical working group. Let me convey the appreciation of my government to you, Ambassador Kanu, and your team for your important contribution in organizing and presiding over the upcoming open-ended technical expert group sessions. Mr. Chair, Germany reserves substantial parts of its national budget for disarmament and arms control, for supporting international efforts to address the challenges by the misuse, diversion, and trafficking of small arms and light weapons. Since several years, Germany is funding dedicated projects implemented by UN institutions, the OSCE, and non-governmental organizations with a combined volume of about €50 million annually. Our experience in supporting dedicated project work underlines that self-control and preventing diversion is a complex task that requires the involvement of multiple stakeholders, including national self-commissions, technical state agencies, multilateral agencies, as well as non-governmental implementing partners, academia, research institutions, and manufacturers. Germany is grateful for the possibility to partner with a diverse range of implementing partners and consequently includes civil society partners in our national delegations to the P5.","start":8445.677,"end":8632.69,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"DEU","affiliation_full":"Germany","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":76,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I'm sorry, Germany, I will pass the floor, but thank you very much indeed. Suriname has asked to defer. Its speaking slot. I will pass the floor to France, followed by Ukraine, followed by Mozambique. France, you have the floor. Could we give the speaker to— microphone to France, please.","start":8632.69,"end":8660.756,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":77,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Mr. Chairman. At the outset, I'd like to congratulate you on your appointment to chair this 9th BMS on SALV. I would like to commend the high caliber of the preparatory work that was conducted. It was transparent and inclusive, this over the course of the last few months. Rest assured, you have my delegation's confidence and full support as you discharge your duties. We welcome the fact that the Open-Ended Technical Expert Group on New Technologies will be meeting for the first time. We would like to extend our encouragement to your colleague Ambassador Michael Kanu, who will be chairing the group. Now, this meeting is a very special one. Our time is limited, limited, but this shouldn't prevent us from being bold. We appreciate your approach to the outcome document, which is going to be succinct and should be able to garner consensus on the provisions contained therein. Nonetheless, we believe it's important for this outcome document to include the following important points. First, the document should reiterate our willingness to factor in a gender perspective, taking into consideration the effects of the illicit trade in salve on women, men, girls, and and boys, children, in other words. This is something we cannot slide back on. No backsliding. We should also recognize the complementarity of the commitments taken on in the POA and those signed up to by states in other regional and international instruments, such as the Arms Trade Treaty, the Firearms Protocol, and the Global Framework on Ammunition. We could also recognize the role of international institutions, such as Interpol and UNODC. Last but not least, without preempting the outcome of the technical expert group meeting, the final document should also reflect the commitments we already took on at the last review conference as regards various technological and practical developments driven by traffickers. I'm referring to in particular modular weapons, polymer weapons, 3D printing, which are exacerbating conversion and reactivation— reactivation of weapons also the sending of components by post. These challenges come on top of recent developments such as craft production and improvised production. Craft production is becoming more modern, it's, uh, more diversified, driven by online spread of information and know-how, in particular on the dark web. This is undermining existing measures aimed at arms control and tracing. It's vital for this issue to remain front and center of our attention. I thank you.","start":8666.05,"end":8836.289,"topics":[{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"FRA","affiliation_full":"France","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":78,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, France. I have Ukraine followed by Mozambique, followed by Belgium. Ukraine, you have the floor.","start":8836.919,"end":8842.699,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":79,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Mr. Chair, at the outset, our delegation would like to congratulate you and other members of the Bureau on your election and wish you every success. Ukraine also wishes to express express its appreciation to the Chair and to the UNODA for the excellent preparation of this meeting. Ukraine aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the European Union. Our delegation would also like to make some additional remarks in its national capacity. The illicit trade diversion and misuse of small arms and light weapons remain among the most serious threats to international peace and security. These weapons continue to fuel armed conflicts, organized crime, terrorism, and violence against civilians across the globe. For Ukraine, this issue has a particularly acute dimension. For more than 4 years, Ukraine has been defending itself against Russia's war of aggression. The scale and intensity of the war have created significant challenges for Ukraine related to circulation, accounting, and control of weapons and ammunition. Despite the circumstances, we have established transparent mechanisms for monitoring the receipt and use of weapons and ammunition received from international partners as part of military assistance provided in order to strengthen country's defence and security capabilities. Ukraine stresses that all weapons and military equipment received from its international partners are subject to strict control and accountability measures and are used exclusively for the exercise of its inherent right of self-defence. In accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter. The National Police of Ukraine, together with other competent authorities, continues to implement comprehensive measures aimed at preventing and combating illicit trafficking in firearms, ammunition, and explosives. In this regard, Ukraine introduced a mechanism for the declaration of firearms under conditions of active armed conflict. The system has enhanced governmental oversight to weapons circulation, encouraged the registration of previously undeclared firearms, and contributed to reducing the risks associated with illicit possession and diversion of solv. Thanks to coordinated efforts by Ukrainian law enforcement agencies, no cases of illicit transfer of firearms from Ukraine to other countries have been recorded. Mr. Chair, Ukraine attaches particular importance to international compare— cooperation in the areas of marking, record keeping, and tracing, as well as efforts aimed at preventing the diversion of weapons and ammunition. In this context, Ukraine continues to work closely with international partners, including Interpol, Europol, the EU, OSCE, Frontex, and neighbouring countries to strengthen border security, information exchange, tracing capabilities, and law enforcement cooperation. The full state The statement will be uploaded on the UNPOA website. Thank you.","start":8844.939,"end":9015.758,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"sovereignty-self-defense","label":"Sovereignty and Self-Defense","description":"A number of delegations stressed that implementation of the Programme of Action must respect state sovereignty, non-interference, and the inherent right of self-defense under the UN Charter. They warned against politicized or discriminatory restrictions on legitimate arms manufacture, import, export, and possession for national security purposes."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"UKR","affiliation_full":"Ukraine","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":80,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Ukraine. I have Mozambique followed by Belgium, followed by Guatemala, followed by Nepal. Mozambique, you have the floor.","start":9017.62,"end":9025.241,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":81,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Mr. Chair, Mozambique congratulates you on your election to preside over this meeting. We also express our appreciation to UNODC for its preparations. Mozambique aligns itself with the statement delivered by African Group and adds these remarks in its national capacity. For Mozambique, the illicit proliferation and misuse of small arms and light weapons is not only a disarmament concern, it is a peace, security, and development challenge. Across Africa, Africa, these weapons have become literal weapons of mass destruction. They are cheap, mobile, and devastating. They fuel terrorism, organized crime, and intercommunal violence. They undermine state authority, and they divert scarce resources from development, education, health, and climate resilience. SADC knows this from experience. We continue to address legacy weapons from our past conflict while confronting terrorism activity in parts of the north. Our commitment is reflected in the implementation of Programme of Action and the International Tracing Instrument, ratification of the SADC Firearms Protocol, accession of the Arms Trade Treaty cooperation through SARPCO and Interpol, and national initiatives such as Operation Rush Hour and the Transformation of Weapons into Hosts project. This biennial meeting should strengthen implementation by prioritizing 5 areas: secure stockpile management and destruction of surplus weapons; systematic backing rigorous record-keeping and tracing of seized arms and ammunition; strong border, customs, maritime, and intelligence cooperation; practical measures to address illicit digital blueprints and 3D-printed components; and predictable assistance to countries most affected by diversion and armed violence. Guided by the African Union's Silencing the Guns initiative, Mozambique remains committed to a result-oriented outcome that turns evidence into prevention, tracing into accountability, and arms control into sustainable peace and development.","start":9028.434,"end":9189.98,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"MOZ","affiliation_full":"Mozambique","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":82,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"I thank you. Thank you, Mozambique. Can I just foreshadow that I plan to adjourn the meeting close to 1 o'clock, 1 PM. That should give us enough time to hear Belgium, Guatemala, followed by Nepal, and then I'd propose adjourning, I think. But Belgium, you have the floor.","start":9189.98,"end":9211.289,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":83,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you very much, Mr.","start":9211.96,"end":9213.06,"topics":[]},{"text":"Chair.","start":9213.06,"end":9213.54,"topics":[]},{"text":"Let me first congratulate you on your election and thank you for the way you conducted our debates during the preparation of this meeting. Belgium aligns itself with the statement that will be pronounced later by the EU Thank you.","start":9213.54,"end":9225.59,"topics":[]},{"text":"Considering the special character of this BMS due to the upcoming OETEG, the national statement will be short and focused on a few important points for Belgium.","start":9225.64,"end":9234.19,"topics":[]},{"text":"First, the language of gender is important for my delegation. As we always mention, the language proposed on gender is the floor and not the ceiling. Belgium co-sponsored the GENSAC paper in this regard. Second, we very much welcome the first session of the OETEG. We hope it will provide a platform for exchanges of a technical nature regarding challenges and opportunities provided by new technologies, as well as international cooperation assistance in this domain.","start":9234.93,"end":9261.64,"topics":[{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."}]},{"text":"Belgium proposed a working paper with several issues that could be raised during the OTEG on the topic of polymer frame and modular small arms select weapons. A robust inter— intersectional process will be necessary to cover all the topics and to draft concrete recommendations to the proposed to be proposed at the WEFCON 5. On a side note, I had the opportunity to be a fellow of the European edition of the Small Arms and Light Weapons Fellowship organized by UNODA. This fellowship was extremely fruitful and very well organized.","start":9262.765,"end":9291.916,"topics":[{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."}]},{"text":"I can only recommend participation for interested colleagues.","start":9292.445,"end":9295.155,"topics":[]},{"text":"The working paper produced by Belgium for the OETG is a product of this fellowship.","start":9295.812,"end":9300.285,"topics":[]},{"text":"I thank you, Mr. Chair.","start":9300.702,"end":9301.36,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"BEL","affiliation_full":"Belgium","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":84,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Belgium. Guatemala, followed by Nepal. Guatemala, you have the floor.","start":9303.524,"end":9308.71,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":85,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Gracias, señor presidente.","start":9310.48,"end":9311.749,"topics":[]},{"text":"Thank you, Chairman. Guatemala wishes to express its congratulations to you upon your election and to thank you and your team for your stewardship of this 9th Biennial Meeting of States, as well as for your efforts made to facilitate a balanced, concise, consensus-focused document. The illicit trafficking of arms continues to fuel various manifestations of transnational organized crime. Affecting the security of our citizens, the rule of law, and sustainable development. In this regard, the prevention and detection of the deviation of weapons towards non-authorized actors and illicit markets is of the utmost importance for Guatemala. This is why we believe it's particularly valuable that the document recognizes the need to address the deviation of weapons towards non-authorized users and illicit markets through measures that cover the entire life cycle of weapons, thus strengthening um, marking, registration, and tracing provisions. Recognizing the challenges and opportunities derived from technological advance in the traceability of small arms and light weapons, the continuity of technical discussions on these matters will contribute to maintaining the relevance and efficacy of our international instruments to the new realities that states face. We recognize that technological progress, including modular weapons and additive manufacturing, pose new challenges for the implementation of the Programme of Action. In this regard, it's fundamental to strengthen international cooperation, technical assistance, and the exchange of good practices. Chairman, Guatemala shares the vision that the fight against the illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons violence must be addressed from a comprehensive perspective that recognizes its effects on security, sustainable development, the strengthening of institutions, and the well-being of our citizens. And like with this approach, Guatemala has set up a National Commission for the Prevention of Armed Violence, which is an inter-institutional body and is multidisciplinary that seeks to root out the root causes of violence with evidence-based approaches and to facilitate coordination between the different stakeholders involved. We believe that experience of this this type reflect the value of comprehensive approaches and collaborative approaches that are required to address challenges associated with the illicit deviation of small arms and light weapons. Finally, we recognize that international cooperation, capacity building, and inter-institutional coordination are essential in order to make sustainable progress. It is only through a comprehensive approach that includes control, prevention, and development that we will be able to effectively reduce armed violence and its impacts on our societies. Thank you very much, Chair.","start":9312.499,"end":9477,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"GTM","affiliation_full":"Guatemala","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":86,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Guatemala. I then pass to Nepal. You have the floor, Nepal.","start":9477.08,"end":9482.91,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}},{"statement_number":87,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Mr. Chair, thank you. I join other delegates in congratulating you on your election and assure you of Nepal's full support for a successful outcome of this meeting. Mr. Chair, illicit trade of arms, small arms and light weapons continues to undermine international peace and security, driving armed conflicts, terrorism and human suffering suffering. We are concerned that today emerging technologies are transforming the way these weapons are produced, modified, trafficked, and concealed. Mr. Chair, Nepal underscores effective implementation of the Programme of Action and the International Tracing Instrument to prevent the diversion and illicit international transfer of SALWs to unauthorized recipients. We reaffirm the states' primary responsibility for preventing, combating, and eradicating the illicit trade in SALW in all its aspects. We also recognize the crucial role of governments in implementing robust national legislation, enhancing law enforcement capacities, and ensuring strict control over small arms throughout their lifecycle. Mr. Chair, Nepal has undertaken a wide range of measures to strengthen its national response to the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, including aligning national laws with the POA and ITI, enforcing strict licensing and possession controls, prioritizing marking and record keeping, maintaining comprehensive databases, and cooperating closely with Interpol, the World Customs Organization, and neighboring countries to prevent illicit trafficking. Mr. Chair, as we move forward, 3 priorities deserve particular attention. First, we must strengthen prevention. This requires stronger national systems, enhanced border management, secure stockpile management, robust licensing procedures, and effective information sharing among relevant authorities within and across borders. Second, we must close the technological gap through enhanced capacity building, technological transfer, and predictable financing to help all states effectively implement their obligations. Third, we must strengthen the nexus between disarmament, development, and peacebuilding. Investments in education, health, livelihoods, youth and women empowerment, and community engagement is crucial. We must also continue to raise awareness and promote the exchange of information, expertise, and good practices on the emerging developments in SALW manufacturing. In this regard, we support the OETG's upcoming work to tackle the challenges posed by recent developments in SALW. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, Nepal remains remains steadfast to work closely with all partners in creating a safer world free from the threats of illicit small arms. Thank you.","start":9485.02,"end":9643.4,"topics":[{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."}]}]}],"speaker":{"name":null,"affiliation":"NPL","affiliation_full":"Nepal","group":null,"function":"Representative"}},{"statement_number":88,"paragraphs":[{"sentences":[{"text":"Thank you, Nepal. As foreshadowed, I will adjourn this session shortly, but I have a couple of practical matters I'd like to bring to colleagues' attention. First of all, we'll resume our conversation in this room at 3 PM. This afternoon. But before we continue with delegation interventions, there will be a presentation by the Secretariat at 3 PM after we recommence on implementation of the POA and the ITI, trends, challenges, and opportunities based on national reporting, and the study on obliterated markings and methods for marking recovery in the context of the International Tracing Instrument. We'll recommence with that presentation from the Secretariat. Secondly, I have 11 speakers remaining on our list for Agenda Item 7, and to ensure the best use of our time this afternoon, what I would like to do— we obviously have plenty of time for all those speakers to contribute, which we'll do after the Secretariat presentation. Once we've concluded Having concluded hearing those 11 speakers, I'll proceed with Agenda Item 8, and delegations are therefore encouraged to be prepared for the meeting to proceed to Agenda Item 8 this afternoon. Thirdly, I indicated to you at the outset I would just highlight some of the side events that are going to take place, particularly over this lunchtime period. There are 3 that I'm aware of. Of. The first is in relation to the Small Arms and Light Weapons Fellowship training program hosted by UNODA. That will be in Committee Room 6 at 1:15. The second is hosted by Transparency International, the European Union, and the government of the Netherlands, Under the Radar: Corruption's Role in Fuelling Arms Diversion. That will be hosted at the permanent mission of the Netherlands at 1:15. And thirdly, a number of state members of CARICOM hosting an event on shared security in the Western Hemisphere, regional, hemispheric, and international cooperation to disrupt the illicit firearms trafficking and prevent diversion in the Caribbean, and that will be in Committee Room A again at 1:15. So can I thank all of you for your contributions this morning. Thank you for being so disciplined in terms of time, and very much looking forward to regrouping at 3 PM sharp, and we will commence at 3 PM sharp this afternoon following the lunch break. Thank you very much indeed. We are adjourned.","start":9643.4,"end":9811.46,"topics":[]}]}],"speaker":{"name":"James Martin Larsen","affiliation":"AUS","affiliation_full":"Australia","group":null,"function":"Chair"}}],"topics":[{"key":"arms-diversion","label":"Arms Diversion Prevention","description":"Many speakers focused on stopping small arms and light weapons from being diverted from legal manufacture, stockpiles, or transfers into illicit markets and the hands of unauthorized actors. Proposed measures included end-user controls, risk assessments, post-shipment verification, and better detection of diversion across the full weapon life cycle."},{"key":"marking-tracing","label":"Marking, Record-Keeping and Tracing","description":"A recurring theme was the need to strengthen the International Tracing Instrument through durable marking, accurate record-keeping, and timely tracing cooperation. Delegations stressed that better traceability is essential for identifying trafficking routes, investigating crimes, and preventing future diversion."},{"key":"lifecycle-controls","label":"Lifecycle Arms Controls","description":"Speakers repeatedly emphasized controlling weapons across their full life cycle, from manufacture and transfer to storage, use, seizure, and destruction. This included national legislation, licensing, export controls, stockpile security, border management, and oversight of parts, components, and ammunition."},{"key":"terrorism-and-crime","label":"Terrorism and Organized Crime","description":"A major topic was the role of illicit small arms in fueling terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, and related trafficking networks. Speakers from multiple regions described these weapons as key enablers of insecurity, civilian harm, and instability, especially in conflict-affected areas such as the Sahel."},{"key":"gender-and-inclusion","label":"Gender and Inclusive Participation","description":"Several statements underscored the gendered impacts of illicit arms, including their role in sexual and gender-based violence and their disproportionate effects on women, girls, and youth. Delegations also called for the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and, in some cases, youth and civil society in arms control decision-making."},{"key":"emerging-technologies","label":"Emerging Weapons Technologies","description":"Numerous statements highlighted challenges from 3D-printed, polymer, modular, craft-produced, and other hard-to-trace weapons, as well as the opportunities offered by AI and digital tools for detection and tracing. The new Open-Ended Technical Expert Group was widely seen as the main forum for developing practical responses to these technological changes."},{"key":"international-assistance","label":"International Cooperation and Assistance","description":"Many delegations called for stronger international and regional cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law-enforcement coordination, and cross-border action against trafficking networks. There were also repeated appeals for technical assistance, capacity-building, technology transfer, and predictable funding for developing countries."},{"key":"sovereignty-self-defense","label":"Sovereignty and Self-Defense","description":"A number of delegations stressed that implementation of the Programme of Action must respect state sovereignty, non-interference, and the inherent right of self-defense under the UN Charter. They warned against politicized or discriminatory restrictions on legitimate arms manufacture, import, export, and possession for national security purposes."}]}}