Artificial Intelligence and international peace and security - Security Council, 10005th (resumed)

The 10005th meeting of the Security Council is resumed. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Antonio Costa, President of the European Council.

Thank you, Mr. President, and I commend the South Korean presidency. to organise this very important debate. Artificial intelligence is a powerful enhancer of human potential, for better or for worse. On the one hand, it offers solutions to some of humanity's oldest challenges. Incurable disease, climate-driven instability, poverty and inequalities, humanitarian aid delivery with smart logistics and new possibilities for cross-cultural communication. But artificial intelligence is also being used to undermine trust in institutions, spread disinformation and enable cyber attacks. Most dangerous, the development of lethal autonomous weapon systems, threatens to remove human accountability from decisions of life and death. The risks are real. Miscalculation, escalation and proliferation. We must act before the tipping points become irreversible. That is why global efforts are needed to address these challenges. I call for good governance, and regulation before it is too late. Last year's political declaration on the responsible military use of artificial intelligence was signed by all the European Union member states. Hosted by South Korea and the Netherlands, important work is also being done by the United Nations Office for disarmament affairs. The international community must act fast. We need global standards, transparency and mechanism for accountability that are as dynamic as the technologies we seek to govern. Excellencies, the European Union stands for human-centred approach to artificial intelligence. grounded in our core values, dignity, democracy and the rule of law. Through the European Union Artificial Intelligence Act, we are building the world's first comprehensive regulatory framework for reliable artificial intelligence. We call for the same ambition at international level, peace and security, are human responsibilities and they must remain so in the artificial intelligence era.

Thank you very much, Mr. President.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Costa for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Singapore. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President, for this opportunity for Singapore. We are not a member of the Security Council, obviously, but we are a tiny city state in the heart of Southeast Asia. Artificial intelligence is a very powerful platform which is generating a suite of tools which in the nature of powerful platforms can be used both for good as well as for harm. Singapore believes that It's got multiple, AI has multiple potential applications. First, in conflict prevention, it can help us with early warning systems. It provides tools to identify brewing crisis before they erupt. It gives us hopefully precious time for preventive diplomacy. In peacekeeping, predictive analytics will help identify potential hotspots, identify patrol routes, enhance situational awareness, protecting both peacekeepers and civilians. And for humanitarian operations, can certainly be deployed to optimize aid distribution, predict displacement patterns, improve medical diagnostics in conflict zones. But where conflict is concerned, There are two broad themes where we need to be concerned with. First is we mentioned the advent of lethal autonomous weapons systems. And actually, it's no longer potential. If you think about, in fact, the hot wars that are being fought right now, the truth is because of the urgency to identify multiple targets and to deal with them, human fingers even today are often not on the triggers. We've had to outsource it to AI systems. So it's not something potential, it's something which is real. So that's at the tactical level. But there's also a strategic dimension to it, which is that deterrence and diplomacy, at least for the past eight years, have depended on the fact that we assume that you're negotiating with another human intelligence with a brain and a heart. And concepts of deterrence are human inventions. And if the strategic elements of diplomacy and deterrence are outsourced to AI systems, you are no longer dealing with another human being. with inhibitions, with reservations, with an instinctive value for life. So it will affect diplomacy and it will affect, in the most egregious circumstances, it will affect deterrence and even mutually assured destruction from nuclear weapons and other things. So that is why Singapore believes it is vital to have guardrails in place, AI has to be harnessed responsibly, In the case of Singapore, we've established national principles for the use of AI in the military domain. And these principles encompass responsibility, reliability, robustness, and safety, and to guide our approach to developing, testing, and deploying AI-enabled military systems. But beyond national efforts, Singapore actively engages in international initiatives on AI governance, including the Responsible AI in the Military Domain process. We also recognize the importance of regional initiatives for inclusive and context-specific discussions on AI governance, and we support the ASEAN, this is the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Responsible AI Roadmap and the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting Joint Statement on Cooperation in the Field of AI in the Defense Sector. So today, as AI transforms our global security landscape, the question is not whether to embrace AI, it will be used whether we like it or not, but how to harness it in a way that actually enhances international peace and security. And this ultimately requires the Security Council and the General Assembly to work in partnership and in a complementary way. to build on the ongoing work in the first committee on AI in the military domain. We believe the Security Council plays three important roles. First, to actively explore possibilities for integrating AI capabilities into its own work and across the United Nations as a whole, including in conflict prevention, peacekeeping mandates, and humanitarian operations. Second, the Security Council should serve as a platform for confidence building and the sharing of experiences and best practices through regular exchanges like today's open debate. And third, the Security Council should take a broader view of what constitutes threats to international peace and security and operate with the awareness that an AI-related incident could very easily create misunderstandings between states, miscalculations that can lead to escalations and outright conflict. We cannot rule out a role for the Security Council in coordinating responses as part of its charter given responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security in such circumstances, turbocharged and catalyzed by AI. So the international community stands at a critical juncture, as we saw in domains like cyberspace and outer space. Early and constructive and inclusive multilateral engagement on these emerging platform technologies is absolutely crucial. We must act decisively to ensure that AI strengthens rather than undermines international peace and security. And Singapore commits to work with all member states towards a future that is safer and a future where AI serves our collective security and not is used as a tool for division or an accelerator for war. Thank you.

I thank His Excellency Dr. Balakrishnan for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Andriy Sybija, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.

Mr. President, I thank the Republic of Korea for organizing this debate. And I am grateful to the Secretary General and other briefers for their remarks. We recognize both the potential of artificial intelligence and its risks. Probably we in Ukraine experience them more than anyone else. For us, they are literally a matter of life and death. Artificial intelligence has changed the nature of war. Its use on the battlefield is rapidly expanding. This technology can help a country defend itself like it helps us in Ukraine, but it can also be used by an aggressor to kill and destroy like it is being used by Russia. Ukraine uses this technologies to develop advanced equipment, including air defense, to improve resilience against Russian electronic warfare and enhance our capacity to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. Recently, we have also started testing artificial intelligence in humanitarian demining. At the same time, Russia has been using these technologies to inflict death and destruction. Moscow also widely uses them as tools for propaganda and undermining trust in democratic institutions in Ukraine and throughout the world. The development of artificial intelligence marks a new era for the world, from education and the economy to war and peace. This technology will transform the way we do things. But as with any technology, it is not about capabilities, but rather about the intent of those who use it. In the past, the international community has found ways to counter proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, international legal mechanisms, treaties and regimes. But while weapons of mass destruction are difficult to acquire, transfer and develop artificial intelligence has no physical borders. Controlling its proliferation among rogue actors is extremely challenging. For example, Russia may share with North Korea or Iran its experience of using this technology on the battlefield in Ukraine. This will immediately elevate security risks for both the Korean Peninsula and the Indo-Pacific, as well as for the Middle East. And this is probably already happening. We call for a coordinated action to counter threats of criminal regimes sharing defense technology based on artificial intelligence. Free nations must be quick and more effective. Ukraine stands ready to share its valuable experience and know-how with its allies. Mr. President, I will quote what Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said yesterday in the General Assembly hall. I quote, "We are now living through the most destructive arms race in human history because this time it includes artificial intelligence. And if there are no real security guarantees except friends and weapons, And if the world can't respond even to all threats, and if there is no strong platform for the international security, will there be any peace left on earth that's still safe for people? We need global rules now for how AI can be used in weapons. This is just as urgent as preventing the spread of nuclear weapons." End of quote. At the international level, Ukraine supported a number of important initiatives aimed at strengthening artificial intelligence governance, including relevant UN General Assembly resolutions and political declarations. We commend the Republic of Korea and other international partners for fostering cooperation in this domain, including within the REIM process. Ukraine calls upon all peace-loving states to ensure democratic control, over emerging technologies while holding accountable those who weaponize them to commit crimes. And last but not least, I want to assure you that my remarks were not written by artificial intelligence. Thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Sebilla for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Maxim Ryjenkov, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Belarus.

Thank you, Mr. President. Ladies and gentlemen, we warmly welcome the decision of the Republic of Korea to convene at the UN Security Council an open debate on such an important topic for the entire world today. Probably not a day goes by without a press headline about a latest breakthrough in the use of artificial intelligence. Yes, indeed, progress in this area continues to open up unthinkable progress areas in almost all areas of human activity in combating climate change, hunger, incurable diseases, and so on. However, not everything is so rosy and promising because AI is like a double-edged sword. And in this connection, I wish to highlight some of the main challenges. Firstly, attempts by the so-called collective the West to exclude the other countries from the development process and exploration of AI. I think that this technology will help them to gain a military advantage. Essentially, in this area, there is a new curtain being created, not ideological this time, but a technological, a silicone curtain that is to divide the West and the other part of the world, the global majority, and to bring the global majority countries into an era of neocolonialism. This is leading to a deadlock, an abyss. Uh, AI should be available and accessible to all countries with barring none. This is the only way that AI can be. harnessed for the benefit of all. Second, the use of AI in the military area. There are unabated military conflicts which continue to fuel AI. Modern day conflicts include the use of drones, high precision weaponry, and lethal autonomous weapon systems, which have self-learning recursive systems it is algorithms of AI and weapon systems may independently begin to take decisions at a certain point. And in this connection, the computer games may seem to parallel reality. Recently, the president of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko noted, that having a capability to teach itself this AI tool could doom humankind if it spirals out of control. Many have been talking about this recently. And this all leads us to a key question. AI needs to be under human control. Three, the ethics related to AI. The development of AI needs to be geared towards improving human lives and preserving human dignity. This means that AI technologies need to supplement human capabilities and not supplant them entirely, the technology should not discriminate against the human person, the ill conceived use of AI can have serious social repercussions. In this connection, there needs to be a clear definition for accountability mechanisms when it comes to decisions related to the use of AI. The right step in this direction is the recent Chinese initiative to establish a world cooperation organization in the area of AI, which Belarus wholeheartedly supports. It is very necessary for us to all have this platform and to the extent that it is possible, as soon as possible, to reach agreement on mechanisms for a general control of AI mechanisms. Thank you for your attention.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Rejankov for the statement. I now give the floor to Her Excellency Ms. Baiba Braze, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Latvia.

Thank you, Mr. President. I hope the mic is on. Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, I thank the Republic of Korea for convening this debate and the briefers for their valuable reflections. AI offers vast opportunities. It can promote economic growth, drive scientific progress and innovation, improve healthcare, and make education more accessible. But at the same time, it does present serious challenges to international peace and security. just as we heard from the minister from Ukraine today. Those challenges also include ethical dilemmas in military, vulnerabilities in cyber and biosecurity, and the growing risks of manipulation of information and even interference in democratic processes. AI is already part of our daily lives and part of the warfare. It depends how we apply it. It can help self-defense in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter, just as Ukraine is implementing it, or it can be part of the arsenal of the aggressor, in the case of Russia. Our task is to make sure, at the United Nations, that we can make it safer and more beneficial for people, develop it responsibly, but we should not halt the progress. So what should we do? In our view, first, we should enable innovation by supporting research and providing high quality data. Second, create safeguards to protect information space from malign use, to promote critical thinking among our people and build up capacities to detect the potential risks. Third, bring humans to the core of AI governance. Technology should serve people, protect freedoms and enhance human potential rather than replace it. Thus, Latvia has created Artificial Intelligence Center to ensure cooperation between public, private, and academic actors. It does reflect our belief that collaboration is essential for responsible innovation. At the global level, we must agree on guiding principles for the safe, legal, and ethical use of AI in military, ensure effective prevention of its misuse by terrorists and criminal groups, and aggressors for that matter. Mr. President, as an elected future member of the UN Security Council, Latvia will continue your work and bring this matter forward as an urgent issue of peace and security. We will work to strengthen recognition of the need for safe, ethical, and trustworthy AI. I thank you.

I thank Her Excellency Ms. Brazis for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Carlos Ramiro Martinez Alvarado, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Guatemala.

Good afternoon, Mr. President. Guatemala would like to thank the Republic of Korea for convening this open debate on artificial intelligence, one of the most transformative innovations of our era. We recognize its enormous potential to generate well-being for humanity from improvements in health systems, environmental protection, the promotion of sustainable development, and the strengthening of more resilient and inclusive societies. The peaceful use of artificial intelligence can and must be a tool in the service of human dignity, shared progress, and peace. However, we cannot ignore the risks inherent to its dual use nature. The same technology that today saves lives can also be used for belligerent purposes, exacerbating mistrust between states and reducing opportunities for conflict de-escalation. This potential militarization of AI poses a major challenge to international peace and security, as well as to the stability of the world order. This is why Guatemala stresses the importance of strengthening multilateral norms regulating the development and use of these technologies. We need to advance towards clear international agreements on the use of AI in the military field and in the area of cutting edge developments that could profoundly alter the global strategic balance. In this regard, we would recall that states have already affirmed the applicability of international law, including the Charter of the United Nations, international humanitarian law, and international human rights law to the use of AI in military contexts. My country is aware of the need to address developments in military technologies and the growing risks of their use in weapons, including an increase in miscalculations, escalation, and loss of control. These vulnerabilities require full understanding of their implications. For this reason, we reiterate that as long as there are States which possess nuclear weapons, there must be significant human control over weapons and their delivery systems. International humanitarian law prohibits certain weapons and establishes general restrictions on the use of all others. With respect to autonomous weapons systems, Guatemala takes seriously the joint appeal of the President and Secretary General of the International Committee of the Red Cross to initiate negotiations for a legally binding instrument establishing clear prohibitions and clear restrictions on these systems. Artificial intelligence will soon be used in different fields, therefore we consider it essential that there be a comprehensive international response to guarantee accountability in its use. especially in decision support tools, ensuring that they are used in full observance of international law. There is no place for impunity in this area. As the principal body responsible for maintaining international peace and security, the Security Council must remain informed of scientific and technological advances that may impact global stability. The Security Council could consider establishing red lines for the development of AI that threaten international peace and security, such as recursive self improvement, autonomous replication and assistance in creating weapons of mass destruction. AI is without a doubt one of the greatest tests of our collective capacity to guide progress toward the common good. Guatemala reiterates that its development and application must be focused on respect for human dignity, protection of the most vulnerable, and the strengthening of peace. The international community cannot afford to fall behind when it comes to building effective norms and safeguards against the risks of artificial intelligence. Thank you very much.

I thank the minister for his statement. And I now give the floor to Her Excellency, Ms. Maria Teresa Lazaro, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Philippines.

Thank you, Mr. President. Artificial intelligence has revolutionized predictive weather models and optimizing crop yields, among other outstanding developments. Recognizing its economic potential for a country grappling with climate change, the Philippines approved earlier this year the National AI Strategy of the Philippines. The promise of AI, however, is tempered by its great potential for misuse. The use of generative AI and large language models to spread false news and harmful propaganda could do great harm. It can potentially destabilize social order, erode trust in institutions, sow discord, divide populations, undermine democracy, free speech, and electoral processes. The Philippines was part of the core group that crafted the 2024 UNGA resolution on artificial intelligence in the military domain, which identified the possible impacts of such applications on international security. This includes the risk of an arms race, miscalculation, lowering the threshold for conflict and escalation of conflict, as well as proliferation to non-state actors. Reflecting on emerging tech in military applications, the Manila meeting on autonomous weapon systems organized by the Philippines in 2023 stressed that AI and its integration into weapon systems should continue, or rather should come with adequate human supervision and meaningful human control. We should never leave life and death decisions solely to machines. International governance must be in step with AI as it develops in leaps and bounds. The United Nations Security Council has the distinct capability to adopt measures that could prevent the exploitation of AI. By integrating AI in its operations with all due guardrails, the Council could utilize its immense potential in threat assessment, sanctions monitoring, and counter-terrorism. We must institute guiding principles on AI's military use, invoking applicable international humanitarian law and international human rights law. If AI is to be integrated in implementing peacekeeping mandates, there should be strong oversight to ensure that this tool only serves to protect and not to harm. We call for transparency and confidence-building among states with regards to AI defense applications. We need to guide responsible private sector behavior to align with UN guiding principles on protecting human dignity. We should expand AI access to developing nations through responsible governance and equitable partnerships. This is part of our duty to empower states to anticipate and prevent conflicts and address the root causes of instability. The Philippines looks to the UN Security Council to assert its leadership in harnessing AI as a force for good and powerful driver for peace and security. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank Her Excellency Ms. Laguerre for the statement. I now give the floor to Her Excellency Ms. Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia.

Thank you, President, Excellencies. Artificial intelligence is reshaping the foundations of our societies. It heralds extraordinary promise in education, health, peacekeeping, conflict prevention, climate change and development. But as well as opportunity, it presents great dangers if we fail to act now and we fail to act together. While once we grappled to discern fact from propaganda, we are now witness to a collapse of truth altogether. Content deliberately designed to deceive is now almost indistinguishable from reality. False voices, fabricated images, manufactured narratives, algorithms amplifying fiction masquerading as fact. And together this risks destabilising societies and deepening divisions. And yet the threat is greater still. AI's potential use in nuclear weapons and unmanned systems challenges the future of humanity. Nuclear warfare has so far been constrained by human judgment, by leaders who bear responsibility and by human conscience. AI has no such concern, nor can it be held accountable. These weapons threaten to change war itself and they risk escalation without warning. President, decisions of life and death must never be delegated to machines and together we must set the rules and establish the norms. We must establish standards for the use of AI to demand it is safe, secure, responsible and ethical. To ensure AI transforms the tools of conflict and diplomacy for the better, the Security Council must lead by example to strengthen international peace and security and ensure it is not undermined. Australia is running for a non-permanent seat on this Council for the 2930 term. because we believe international peace and security needs effective multilateralism. And we seek to bring our experience investing in building resilience and closing digital divides through resilient digital infrastructure and our capacity building partnerships across our region. AI can support these goals, goals many of us share. President, this council has a vital role to play. Promotion of responsible state behaviour, supporting confidence building, ensuring peace operations harness technology safely and effectively. The Responsible AI in the Military Domain Summit initiated by the Republic of Korea and the Netherlands brought the international community together to help deliver on these global needs. And Australia supports the UN General Assembly resolution, the Summit Advance on AI in the Military Domain. As this Council turns 80, let us recommit ourselves to the UN Charter with focus on the challenges ahead, working together to ensure AI serves humanity and ensuring the digital future is one of peace and security, building a world worthy of our children. Thank you.

I thank Her Excellency Ms. Wong for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Sibi George, Vice Minister for External Affairs of India.

Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. President. We appreciate the efforts of the Republic of Korea for convening this debate. India believes that emerging technologies such as AI have tremendous potential to be a force of economic growth and societal progress. At the AI Action Summit earlier this year, Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi highlighted the need for AI governance and standards that uphold our shared values, address risks, and build trust. They should take into account interdependence across borders, promote innovation and ensure that AI is deployed in a manner that benefit that benefits are accessible to all, especially to developing countries. India continues to demonstrate leadership in advancing responsible development of AI. I am happy to share that the India AI Impact Summit will be held on 19 to 20 February 2026 in New Delhi, the first time in a country from the global South, and will showcase the transformative role of AI in enabling inclusive and sustainable development. Mr. President, there are both risks and benefits flowing from the growing adoption of AI and other emerging technologies. However, stigmatization of technologies should be avoided. Access to technologies for developmental uses must not be restricted. The use of AI in the military domain poses ethical, legal, and security challenges. India is committed to responsible AIMD. We support collective global efforts to appropriately regulate the development, deployment, and use of AIMD. These efforts should address legal and ethical concerns and the identification and mitigation of risks associated with military AI. India has developed a framework for evaluating trustworthy AI in the defense sector to address the complex challenges and mitigate risks posed by modern AI technologies. We participate constructively in different multilateral processes which cover impact of AI on international security. We supported UNGA resolution 79 by 239. Mr. President, the responsible use of military AI in all circumstances, including conflict situations, is a commitment to be made by all countries, including those that are currently members of this council. A country in our neighborhood has sponsored cross-border terrorism under the nuclear overhang for decades, spreading instability in the region. While the delegation's interest in the future of warfare is understandable, responsible conduct is applicable to all aspects of state policy. India maintains its principle stands that global arms control and disarmament issues should be deliberated and concluded in an inclusive and transparent manner within the appropriate forums. The Disarmament Commission is deliberating on emerging technologies in the context of international security, including on military AI. The issue is also being discussed in the GA. I thank you, Excellency.

Mr. George for the statement. I now give the floor His Excellency Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with the States of the Holy See.

Mr. President, the Holy See wishes to thank the Republic of Korea for convening this timely open debate on artificial intelligence and its implications for maintaining international peace and security. Over the past few decades, humanity has witnessed an extraordinary and rapid evolution of scientific and technological advancements. The digital revolution, particularly in the field of AI, is having a deep impact on areas such as education, employment, art, healthcare, governance, the military, and communication. AI has the potential to help achieve many of the aspirations that guided the creation of the United Nations 80 years ago, such as advancing sustainable development, maintaining international peace and security, and upholding fundamental human rights and freedoms. At the same time, if the development and use of AI are not firmly anchored in respect for human dignity and the pursuit of the common good, they risk becoming instruments of division and aggression, with the potential to fuel further conflict. This is not an abstract or distant concern, but an urgent reality, given today's global instability and given the rapid integration of AI into conventional and nuclear weapons systems. Mr. President, The development of lethal autonomous weapon systems raises grave legal, security, humanitarian, and ethical concerns for the international community because they lack the unique human capacity for moral judgment and ethical decision making. For this reason, the Holy See strongly supports the adoption of an immediate moratorium on the development or use of laws as well as a legally binding instrument to ensure that decisions over life and death remain under meaningful human control. Equally concerning is the emergence of a new arms race marked by the integration of AI into military systems, including space assets and missile defence systems. Such developments risk altering the nature of weapons and warfare. creating an unprecedented level of uncertainty due to possibility of miscalculation. Notably, incorporating IA into nuclear command and control introduces new unknown risks that extend far beyond the already fragile and morally troubling logic of nuclear deterrence. Mr. President, in order to address these pressing issues, the Holy See calls for a human-centered approach to the development and use of emerging technologies. This council, entrusted with the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security, must pay close attention to scientific and technological progress as it debates this matter. It should also recognize that certain applications, such as technology that replaces human judgment, in matters of life and death cross inviolable boundaries that must never be breached. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank His Excellency Archbishop Gallagher for the statement. I now give the floor Her Excellency, Ms. Beate Meinl-Reisinger, Federal Minister for European and International Affairs of Austria.

Mr. President, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, I thank the Republic of Korea for convening this very timely debate and for its leadership in advancing global discussions on artificial intelligence and international peace and security. Artificial intelligence, in particular, in combination with other emerging technologies such as quantum or biotechnology, is profoundly reshaping our collective security environment. It holds great promises for preventing conflicts, for strengthening early warning capacities, for enabling more effective humanitarian responses, and for peacekeeping and peacebuilding. However, AI also carries serious risks. It can be misused to create and spread disinformation or to execute cyber attacks. It can also enable the proliferation of AI-powered weapons, and pose grave human rights challenges. Furthermore, the practical use of AI-driven tools bears the potential of overdependence. The Security Council, responsible for maintaining international peace and security, has a distinct duty to engage with these challenges. In light of considerations, four priorities should guide our actions. First, ensuring compliance with international law. all uses of AI must remain firmly anchored in international humanitarian and human rights law. Human rights safeguard human dignity, freedom, and equality. AI technology should benefit our societies, and its use should be aimed at promoting human rights in order to contribute to sustainable development. This is particularly urgent in the case of autonomous weapons systems, which raise grave ethical, legal, and security concerns. The window for effective action is closing rapidly. The international community must move forward with regulation to prevent the erosion of international peace and security. Second, harnessing AI for peace. The council should explore how AI can strengthen its own tools. This includes from improving situational awareness of threats to global security, enhancing early warnings to supporting mediation and peace processes. making peace operations safer and more effective, and aiding post-conflict recovery. In fragile contexts, the responsible use of AI could help identify risks early and prevent escalation. Third, trust is the foundation of peace and security, yet it is increasingly undermined by disinformation and cyber attacks. AI is not the root cause, but it has become a powerful tool in the hands of malicious actors, and we are only beginning to grasp its potential impact. To safeguard trust, we must protect freedom of expression and independent media, uphold privacy, strengthen media literacy, cybersecurity, and cyber resilience, and enhance international cooperation. Without trust, there can be no peace. Fourth, inclusive global governance. AI governments must be global and forward-looking, bridging the digital divides that fuel inequality and insecurity. We must avoid fragmented regimes by strengthening existing multilateral frameworks and with sustained investment in capacity building, particularly for developing countries. Only through genuine global cooperation can we ensure that AI serves humanity by advancing peace, equality and sustainable development for all. Mr. President, artificial intelligence is not only a technological issue. It is a matter of trust, responsibility, and shared security. Today's discussion underscores the urgent need to address the links between AI and peace security. Thank you very much.

I thank Her Excellency Ms. Meinel Reisinger for the statement. I now give the floor to her Excellency, Ms. Maria Gabriela Somerfeldt Rosero, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility of Ecuador.

Mr. President, I would like to thank the Republic of Korea for convening this important open debate. We are facing one of the most profound technological transformations in human history. The rapid rise of AI opens unprecedented opportunities for promoting peace and sustainable development, but it also entails risks that, if not mitigated, will threaten to undermine global stability and trust among nations. AI offers extraordinary potential to strengthen multilateralism and preventive action. from early warning systems in crisis contexts to tools for mediation, humanitarian action and the achievement of the SDGs. However, its irresponsible use can lead to serious consequences, such as the strengthening of criminal and terrorist networks, manipulation of information or the deployment of autonomous weapons systems, that endanger the most basic principles of international humanitarian law. As Ecuador said in this Council in 2024, during our term as a non-permanent member, the development and use of artificial intelligence must be guided by the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and by strict respect for international humanitarian law and human rights. Therefore, it's imperative that we move towards a new legally binding international regulatory framework that governs, in particular, the military applications of AI and prohibits the use of lethal autonomous weapons systems that decide by themselves on matters of life and death. As the Secretary General rightly warned us, the fate of humanity must never be left in the hands of a black box of an algorithm. It is also relevant to address the concept of frontier AI. Its enormous potential may be overshadowed by the risk of intensifying geopolitical competition and lead to a technological arms race. Excellences. The digital revolution must not become a new axis of inequality. Advances in AI remain concentrated in a small number of countries and companies. The global south cannot be left behind. Universal and secure digital connectivity must be ensured, technological transfer and capacity building promoted, particularly for young people and for women, ensuring that all nations participate in the benefits of the digital era, and fostering a global governance of artificial intelligence that is ethical, inclusive and respectful of fundamental rights. This is about updating the agenda of the Security Council to include the new challenges posed by the technological revolution. Likewise, my country maintains, as we previously expressed in this forum, maintains the importance of broadening the concept of peace and security to include the new threats arising from transnational organized crime, narco-terrorism and related offences. The Security Council has an irreplaceable role. In light of the growing impact of AI on the dynamics of conflicts, this body must systematically integrate technological considerations in its work of prevention, peacebuilding, and peacebuilding and peacekeeping. Thank you very much.

I thank her Excellency Ms. Sommerfeld for the statement. I now give the floor to his Excellency Mr. Sultan bin Saad Al Murahiki, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Qatar.

Thank you, Mr. President. At the outset, I wish to congratulate the President of the Republic of Korea upon the accession of the country to the Security Council Presidency this month. I also welcome the convening of this debate on the impact of AI on international peace and security, and this as we are marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. Mr. President, Artificial intelligence is one of the most groundbreaking changes in our era. This is an opportunity to enhance development and peace, but at the same time, and by the same token, this AI encompasses risks, specifically if AI is used for malicious purposes. The AI has no human conscience and any lack of human control poses a significant risk. Therefore, we wish to highlight the following points. Any use of AI needs to be done in accordance with international law and the charter of the United Nations. There's a need to have clear international norms for any decisive decision to be controlled by humans. There's a need to enhance multilateralism as well so that any irresponsible use of AI is avoided. The Security Council plays a significant role in shedding light on these risks and in boosting the ties between peace and development and well-being of humankind. Mr. President, my country stands ready to work alongside all countries for AI to remain a tool for peace and prosperity and a source for ending conflict. Thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Al-Muraiki for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Georgi Danielov Georgiev, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria.

Thank you, Mr. President, distinguished members, ladies and gentlemen. Bulgaria aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the European Union, and I would like to make the following points in my national capacity. The emergence of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, autonomy, and data collection, has set a new course of development, both in the civil and the military domains. This fast pace evolution requires constant adaptation and expansion of the international legal standards and regulation framework. It is this critical to work in cohesion to promote adherence to the international legal obligations and responsible and ethical use and development of such technology worldwide. Adversaries to the current international legal order invent and invest heavily in such technology and have little restraints of principles and values from using AI offensively. Intelligence warfare through AI power disinformation campaigns and other similar means possess a risk for our democratic values and foundations as it can target public opinion and decision making processes within our societies. Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine has demonstrated some aspects of the evolution of AI applications on the battlefield. We can expect that in future confrontations, AI will become more adaptive and widely used. Therefore, preserving the technological edge against those using AI for malign purposes is critical as it serves as a deterrence and defense measure. For maintaining the technological edge, it is vital to foster engagements with the private sector and academia. Mr. President, AI must be developed, deployed, and used in accordance with international law, including the UN Charter, international humanitarian law, international human rights law, and as appropriate with other relevant legal frameworks. This is the rational and underpins the active support by Bulgaria of joint initiatives that aim to promote the responsible use of application of AI technologies, including in the military domain. We endorse the blueprint for action document on responsible implementation of AI in the military domain agreed at the REM 2024 summit in Seoul. Bulgaria also endorses the political declaration on the responsible military use of artificial intelligence and autonomy. Furthermore, we are among the co-sponsors of the landmark UN General Assembly resolution on the promotion of safe, secure and trustworthy AI systems adopted in March 2024 and of the UN General Assembly resolution 79-239 entitled Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain and its Implications for International Peace and Security, facilitated by the Netherlands and the Republic of Korea and adopted in December 2024. Our consistent support for joint international initiatives in the civil and military AI domain is an example for the commitment of my country to work towards achieving the goals for a responsible use of artificial intelligence. As Bulgaria is committed to advancing the discussions on the regulation of autonomous weapon systems, we will continue our proactive and constructive work within the CCW group of governmental experts on lethal autonomous weapon systems in an effort to promote convergency on the two-tier approach on the basis of prohibitions and regulations. In an era defined by rapid technological transformations, artificial intelligence stands at the forefront of both opportunity and risks. Bogheda recognizes the dual use nature of the artificial intelligence and remains firmly committed to ensuring its development and deployment are guided by international law. Ethical principles and democratic values will be faced as well. As adversaries exploit AI for malign purposes, including disinformation and battlefield advantage, it is imperative to preserve our technological edge through collaboration with academia, industry, and international partners. Dear Mr. President, Bulgaria is firmly committed to shape a future where AI serves peace, security, and human dignity. By championing responsible innovation and multilateral cooperation, Bulgaria aims to be a driving force in securing a safe, secure, and trustworthy AI landscape for generations to come. Thank you so much.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Georgiev for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Abdulla Khalil, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Maldives.

Thank you, President. Let me start by thanking the Republic of Korea presidency for convening this timely debate. Artificial intelligence is the first technology that breaks the old equation of power. In the past, strength means size, big economies, big armies, big population. Now, Code and computing can give even the smallest states the tools to stand tall. This matters because it is not only governments that will live with these choices, but every community, every young person, every future yet to be written. AI can help us fight climate change, educate every child, safeguard our islands, and even deliver treatments for chronic diseases that overwhelm small health systems. But the same algorithms can also be twisted to surveil, to silence, and, as in Israel's ongoing illegal war in Gaza, to commit genocide at machine speed. The question is not what AI can do, but who it serves and who it harms. For small island developing states, AI offers a way out of the trap of smallness. With shared compute, open data set and safe algorithms, We can build digital twins of our islands to model climate risks. We can deploy AI tutors where teachers are scarce. And we can use AI-driven diagnostics to extend the reach of our limited medical staff. We can reduce customs leakages, police our EEZ and diversify our tourism. For us, AI is not a luxury. It is a pathway to survival and to build resilience, resilient prosperity. This is why governments must step up to craft forward-looking policies that guide innovation in ways that serve people, not just profit. They must also craft rules that protect rights, promote equity, and ensure that no one is left behind. In the Maldives, President Dr. Moide's government has placed people at the front and center of our digital transformation vision, Maldives 2.0, which places AI at the core of our journey to become a developed country by 2040. And we also need shared responsibility and real cooperation. The establishment of the UN independent international scientific panel on AI and the global dialogue on AI governance is an essential first step, but only a first step. We must direct resources to implementation. for global standards that uphold human rights, protect privacy, and reduce regulatory friction and more urgent than ever. This is why we need a multilateral framework that makes AI a force for peace, not destruction. First, ensure equal access. create a global window so seeds can tap computer power, safe models and concessional finance for AI projects that serve the SDGs. Second, enforce safety standards, including independent audits for high risk systems. Third, strengthen rules of war, human accountability in targeting, a moratorium on autonomous lethal decisions, and battlefield black boxes to ensure compliance with international humanitarian law. And we must give SIDs a seat at the table. If our voices are absent, the rules will not reflect our realities. The future of AI is not predetermined. It will be shaped by the courage and choices we make today. Let us ensure it is used to bridge divides, not widen them. To save lives, not end them. To empower the weak, not only the strong. In the end, And the true question is not what AI can do, but who it serves and who it harms. I thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Khalil for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Arnoldo Ricardo Andre Tinoco, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship of Costa Rica.

Mr. President, Excellencies, Costa Rica would like to congratulate the Republic of Korea for convening this debate. Allow me to highlight three points. Firstly, human control, meaningful human control, cannot be negotiated away. This is particularly important when it comes to military applications of AI. We are concerned that The speeding up of decisions is going to increase the risk of miscalculation, lack of communication and involuntary escalations. Decisions that affect human beings must be taken by human beings themselves, and in this regard Costa Rica reiterates our call for the negotiation of a legally binding instrument on autonomous weapons that will establish clear rules and prohibitions as soon as possible. Secondly, Costa Rica would suggest that this rapid technology should never replace humans where one mistake could be a global catastrophe. Emerging technologies such as AI have profound implications for nuclear stability and they require urgent inclusion in the governance of non proliferation and that's why Costa Rica would recommend including the analysis of these technological risks including AI in the nuclear commitments as part of the non proliferation treaty and at its upcoming review conference. Thirdly, Costa Rica would stress the need to reduce technological divides, including that relating to AI. The availability of this technology cannot be restricted to developed countries. Costa Rica calls for a closing of these digital divides rather than further widening inequalities that could become new sources of instability and conflict. Thank you very much.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Andre for the statement. I now give the floor to Her Excellency Ms. Rasma Ramuskaite, Director General for Multilateral Affairs of Lithuania.

Thank you, Mr. President, Excellencies. At the outset, I want to thank the Republic of Korea for convening this debate and for its leadership in international discussions on responsible AI. Lithuania represents a NATO ally on the alliance's eastern flank, where democracy defends itself against authoritarian aggression. For us, AI is not a future concept. It is a present operational reality shaping deterrence, defense, and peace. AI is and must be a cornerstone of modern deterrence strategies. Deterrence by denial, making aggression impossible or ineffective, is key to maintaining peace and preventing escalation in an increasingly complex world. Lithuania commends Ukraine's innovative and human-centered approach to leveraging AI in the face of Russia's aggression. Ukraine has shown how technology can serve as a lifeline for civilians, especially those in occupied territories or displaced by war. From combating massive propaganda and disinformation to supporting independent media and from delivering social programs to ensuring access to public services, education and security, these digital tools empower vulnerable groups, including pensioners, single mothers and persons with disabilities. to navigate complex systems with dignity and clarity. These efforts set a powerful example for all of us that AI, when guided by democratic values and compassion, can be a force for good. Even in the face of existential survival, Ukraine remains dedicated to advancing a digital future grounded in human rights and ethical AI principles. Ukraine also shows how a democracy under attack can use AI responsibly, and in compliance with international law to protect its sovereignty and defend its territory. For example, the Sky Fortress system developed in Ukraine uses AI and acoustic sensors to identify incoming threats and match them with cost-effective countermeasures, optimizing Ukraine's air defense and saving the lives of thousands of people by applying fire brokering logic. Ukraine employs AI to improve targeting, distinguishing enemy combatants, and protecting civilians. It also helps Ukraine analyze satellite images, drone footage, and intercepted communications faster than humans could. Beyond the battlefield, AI helps coordinate humanitarian aid distribution and optimize logistics for evacuations. AI also holds a promise for mine action. AI-driven robotic senses and vision systems can accelerate clearance operations and make them safer. As co-lead of the Demining Capability Coalition for Ukraine together with Iceland, Lithuania is exploring how innovation can be harnessed to reduce the deadly legacy of Russia's aggression, restore farmlands, and allow displaced communities to return home. AI is also being successfully applied in other regions, including Africa, where it supports efforts to predict food insecurity and manage humanitarian crisis, demonstrating its broad potential to enhance peace and stability worldwide. Yet AI is increasingly weaponized in the information domain. We also see disinformation spread at unprecedented speed, deepfakes manipulating populations, and synthetic content eroding trust. For Lithuania, with our history of hybrid threats, this is not a future risk, but a present reality. The rise of AI is also a pressing human rights challenge. If left unchecked, it can deepen inequality, reinforce bias, and harm women, children, and marginalized communities. AI-driven harassment and disinformation targeting activists and journalists is not a future threat. It is happening now. Mr. President, for Lithuania, we see three priorities for the Security Council. First, uphold international law. The Council should reaffirm that the development and use of AI must remain anchored in the UN Charter, human rights, and international humanitarian law. In this context, Lithuania is proud to champion Vilnius Convention, the Council of Europe's Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence, Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law. the first international treaty on AI that places human dignity, equality, and the rule of law at its core. This first of its kind international document puts human rights at its core. We welcome the Global Digital Compact and the UN steps to promote global dialogue on AI governance. These efforts must ensure all countries, large and small, have a voice in shaping our digital future. Second, reinforce guardrails. As the UN body responsible for maintaining international peace and security, the Security Council must promote responsible AI use by enforcing legal reviews, ensuring human oversight, and mitigating bias. It should lead efforts to counter AI-driven misinformation, cyber warfare, and terrorist exploitation, and establish accountability, including targeted sanctions against those who misuse AI to threaten global peace and security. Third, broaden cooperation. The Council should use its convening power to bring states and non-state actors together, sharing best practices, building capacity, and embedding humanitarian perspective. Mr. President, the challenge is not to fear technology, but to root it profoundly in human rights, accountability, and international law. Lithuania is committed to this effort. Thank you.

Her Excellency Ms. Ramos-Keite for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Jose Manuel Alvarez Bueno, Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of Spain.

Thank you.

Spain would like to thank the Presidency of the Republic of Korea for convening this open debate to address one of the most relevant challenges of our time, namely the impact of artificial intelligence on international peace and security. The speed with which artificial intelligence is transforming all areas of human activity, both civil and military, and its impact on peace and international security requires a multilateral, responsible and inclusive reflection. The Security Council, as the principal organ responsible for the maintenance of international peace and security, cannot remain oblivious to the opportunities and risks of AI. The Council must integrate these new challenges into its security agenda, ensuring that technological innovation strengthens rather than undermines conflict prevention, peacebuilding processes, the protection of human rights and ultimately collective security. The potential use of AI in areas such as early risk warning, support for mediation processes, logistical support for peacekeeping operations and the strengthening of humanitarian action is beginning to be explored with positive results. At the same time, AI poses challenges such as mass disinformation, cyber attacks, the development of new weapons, or its unintended effects on conflict dynamics, which have already become a reality. Spain advocates for a people-centered artificial intelligence whose application is always in accordance with international law, international humanitarian law, and international human rights law. Spain is firmly committed to the international debate on the governance of artificial intelligence. That's why we, together with Costa Rica, co facilitated the first resolution on the governance of artificial intelligence, which lays the foundation for an inclusive multilateral framework centred on the principles of the UN Charter and international law. through the establishment of an independent international scientific panel on artificial intelligence and the global dialogue on AI governance. Both of these instruments will contribute undoubtedly to strengthening international cooperation. And we trust that the work of the panel and the dialogue will contribute to the development of safe and secure artificial intelligence systems. with the aim of addressing the capacity gaps and the social, economic, ethical, cultural, linguistic and technical implications of artificial intelligence. Likewise, Spain welcomes with appreciation the recent report of the Secretary-General on artificial intelligence in the military field and its implications for international peace and security. This is an excellent guide for continuing to make progress in international cooperation in addressing the implications of artificial intelligence in the military, security and peace domains. We have to move towards a series of principles and actions that will guarantee that the use of artificial intelligence in the military domain will always be responsible and through systems that can be explained, traceable, verifiable and that are aligned with human control and judgment. and in accordance with international law and, in particular, international humanitarian law. Mr. President, Spain's commitment is solid. The governance of artificial intelligence requires global, inclusive and transparent approaches. human supervision and control are necessary, but also accountability. They must be preserved throughout its life cycle in order to mitigate risks and maximize opportunities. We will continue to promote artificial intelligence in the service of peace, security, sustainable development, and human rights.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Alvarez for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Sean Sobers, Minister for Foreign Affairs and CARICOM Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago.

Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you for your leadership. Mr. President, Trinidad and Tobago welcomes this timely open debate on artificial intelligence and international peace and security. We applaud its pioneering work in the first committee of the General Assembly including the resolution on artificial intelligence in the military domain, which has laid important groundwork for collective consideration of this evolving challenge. Artificial intelligence offers transformative opportunities for development and human wellbeing. However, its rapid and unregulated application to military capabilities, including lethal autonomous weapon system, raises serious risks of escalation unintended consequences, and the erosion of international humanitarian law. For a small island developing state such as Trinidad and Tobago, these dangers are magnified. We depend on a predictable international order with the use of emerging technologies guided by law, transparency, and a responsible conduct of states. This framework is essential to protect civilians, uphold peace, and guarantee that the rewards of innovation are shared responsibly. and equitably, building confidence and trust among states. Trinidad and Tobago therefore supports multilateral efforts to ensure that AI technologies are developed and used in a manner that is safe, ethical, and anchored in international law, including the Charter of the United Nations and international humanitarian law. We encourage the Security Council to engage constructively with the General Assembly and other UN processes to share expertise and build a coherent global framework. In this context, Trinidad and Tobago emphasizes three central pillars. Firstly, agreed upon human centered global governance, ensuring that human responsibility and accountability remain central in all decisions involving AI, including military applications. Secondly, inclusive participation, ensuring equity of opportunity and access. thus enabling small states, developing countries, and civil society to shape emerging norms and standards. And thirdly, capacity building, supporting knowledge sharing and resources so all states can both benefit from the peaceful uses of AI and guard against its malicious application. Mr. President, in closing, artificial intelligence must be a force for peace, not a weapon of chaos. It must be a tool for development, not a technology for destruction. Trinidad and Tobago stands ready to work with all Member States to advance practical, legally grounded measures that safeguard humanity while harnessing the promise of this transformative technology. I thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Sobers for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Sugiono Minister for Foreign Affairs of Indonesia.

Mr. President, Excellencies, the issue before today, the issue before us today is both urgent and consequential with implications that reach beyond borders. Artificial intelligence has moved beyond laboratories and civilian use. It is now entering the military domain at great speed, raising both hope and profound alarm. The way we govern this transformation will decide whether AI strengthens peace or destabilizes it. Indonesia believes that AI has the power to save lives by improving efficiency in humanitarian operations and disaster response and even minimizing harm in conflict.

Yet, if left unchecked, it risks fueling arms races.

Empowering non-state actors, and eroding regional stability. Indonesia is particularly concerned by the integration of AI into nuclear command and control systems. This is not science fiction, it is real and looming threat. The basic principles must be clear that international law remains the foundation, the UN Charter, international humanitarian law, human rights law, as well as disarmament and non-proliferation treaties. Where gaps exist, the laws of humanity and dictates of conscience must guide us. And above all, humans must stay in command. The decision to use force must never be delegated to algorithms. Responsibility and accountability must be the standard. and multilateral governance is therefore urgent. Rules and norms must be inclusive, reflecting all voices, not just those with advanced capabilities. The private sector and researchers must align innovation with ethics and humanity. Global governance must not limit access to AI, but should be a bridge in technological development. If ignored, These divides will deepen inequality and sharpen geopolitical tensions. That is why Indonesia calls for stronger cooperation to build capacity, share knowledge, transfer technology, and ensure equal access. Excellencies, the world cannot afford a fragmented or reckless path. Only through continued inclusive dialogues across countries, regions, and sectors can we guarantee AI becomes a force for peace, not conflict. Let us ensure AI remains a servant of humanity, never its master. I thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Sugiono for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Elmer Chaler Salcedo, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Peru.

Thank you very much, Mr. President, Excellencies. Peru welcomes this well appointed initiative of the Korean Presidency for the Council to look at the links between AI and international peace and security, because this is a subject of increasing importance. Indeed, artificial intelligence has an extraordinary potential to protect lives, to strengthen human security and support peace operations. It can improve conflict prevention, humanitarian assistance and resilience in the face of global challenges. However, unless there is adequate governance, artificial intelligence also poses serious risks cyber attacks on critical infrastructure, autonomous weapons without meaningful human control, massive misinformation, disinformation and the widening digital divide. Peru has taken significant steps forward, establishing in 2023 a national governance framework for AI with an ethical, inclusive approach that is human centred. We also carried out a national analysis of where we have gaps in infrastructure and connectivity in data centers amongst other things. On that basis, we built our national AI strategy for 2025, which will guide its applications to key areas. for the implementation of public policy, we are using AI specifically in cybersecurity, citizen security and environmental protection and in the health sector as well. Excellences, the transnational nature of the impacts of AI means that we have to cooperate over and above national measures in various key areas. I'll limit myself to the following, the economic and technical field, We need to close the digital infrastructure gaps so that there can be better interoperability and employ special talent in that regard. In the military area, we need to have clear common rules globally that are compatible with the UN Charter and international law. This will enable us to make use of the benefits of AI with regard to operating precision and the protection of civilians, and also maintain human control over decision making processes to prevent humanitarian, legal, ethical and security risks. When it comes to the social and political field, we must guarantee that AI will be a factor for cohesion and protect our societies from external destabilisation. We support initiatives such as the summits on the responsible use of artificial intelligence in the military domain, the digital compact and also the independent scientific panel that has been created, as well as the global dialogue on its governance. These are preliminary steps that are very important in this regard. Excellencies, a lot still remains to be done and the Security Council is called upon to systematically consider scientific and technical progress, including in the area of AI and its application, given your primary responsibility to maintain international peace and security. artificial intelligence must be built as a tool of peace, inclusion and human development and never can it be a source of inequality or insecurity. And we reiterate that we are fully prepared to make an active contribution to this global collective effort. Thank you very much, Mr. President.

Thank His Excellency, Mr. Schaller for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency, Mr. Alberto Van Claveren. Minister for Foreign Affairs of Chile.

Thank you very much, Mr. President. Chile would like to thank the Republic of Korea for your leadership in the presidency of the Security Council and for convening this debate. We'd also like to thank the Secretary-General who gave us a valuable contribution. Artificial intelligence is one of the most transformative tools of our time for reinforcing, strengthening international peace and security. It can help us with early risk detection, prevent conflicts and support peace and humanitarian operations, bolster cybersecurity and help counter disinformation. But at the same time, its undue use poses serious risks. We are concerned in particular that we might have weapon systems without meaningful human control and potential cyber attacks by AI against critical infrastructure and the manipulation of public opinion using false information. all applications of this technology must be guided by ethical principles and governance frameworks that are robust that will guarantee accountability and that this will prevent non-state actors from acquiring these capabilities for illicit purposes president Chile very much appreciates the multilateral efforts aimed at establishing common principles, we would highlight the work of the Group of Governmental Experts on Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems and in the framework of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, also the RE-AIM process that brings together States, the private sector, the academic world and civil society. And we also co-sponsored the resolution 79239 of the General Assembly on artificial intelligence in the military sphere and its implications for peace and security. At the regional level, the Declaration of Santiago adopted at the first summit of high authorities on artificial intelligence in Latin America and the Caribbean. led to a dialogue concerning our realities and through the presidency of the ministerial conference on the information society of our region we promoted the creation of LATAM GPT a regional open source and multilingual model this is a concrete contribution to closing digital digital divides and strengthening AI governance in line with the global digital compact And, uh, we here welcome the establishment of the intern- independent international scientific expert panel on artificial intelligence and the global dialogue on AI governance. This Security Council can provide guidelines and good practices for a responsible use of AI in preventing conflicts, in peacekeeping, in post-conflict recovery, and in capacity building, especially focusing on developing countries. Confidence building measures and regional technical cooperation and sub-regional cooperation are essential. President, with robust ethical frameworks, multilateral cooperation, artificial intelligence can be an ally for peace. It should not be used to divide. We need to use it to build a safer, more prosperous future for all. I thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Van Klaveren for the statement. I now give the floor to Her Excellency, Ms. Dorthe Katrin Gunnarsdottir, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland.

Mr. President and members of the Security Council, I deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic countries, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and my own country, Iceland. We thank the Republic of Korea for organizing this briefing and also the briefers for sharing their insights. Artificial intelligence has the potential to promote international peace and security and strengthen development and human rights. Its development surges and its usage grows day by day. Any notion that AI is a technology for tomorrow must be replaced by an acceptance that it is already deeply, deeply integrated into many aspects of our daily lives. Although we are still in the early stages, we must seize every opportunity to shape its trajectory in ways that promote international peace, security, and responsible innovation. AI's immense potential holds the promise of the future marked by positive change and increased ease of endeavor in nearly all fields of society. The technology has the potential to be instrumental in advancing the UN sustainable development goals and offers powerful tools to address global challenges related to health, education, climate and economic development. But however, AI is already being utilized for political advantages and military gains worldwide. Therefore, managing the risks and harnessing the potential of AI is an urgent global imperative. Mr. President, the Nordic countries, these five countries reaffirm the longstanding position that international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law, must be upheld and safeguarded as the foundational framework for the development and use of AI, both offline and online. Human oversight and control over AI must be guaranteed and transparency and accountability must be preserved across the technology's lifecycle to mitigate safety and security risks. While the benefits of AI are clear and plentiful, so too are the possibilities of negative impacts and the danger of malignant use. We have already witnessed the use of AI for information manipulation and interference in such a way that it poses a risk to the sense of security and stability in our societies, such negative impacts. reminds us of the fact that technology is designed and deployed based on the interest or values of the designer and then used according to the values of the user, amplifying either our best or worst intentions. Mr. President, the application of AI in the military domain demands particular attention. The potential for misuse, unpredictability and lack of accountability in the use of AI during conflict is a serious concern shared by all, one that must be urgently addressed and mitigated. Military systems that use AI and autonomy need to ensure that accountability is required and liability is possible from states and authorities, as well as companies and individuals. A general principle should be that meaningful human control is exercised. At the same time, AI can also offer benefits such as improved protection of civilians and early warning, which can also be relevant in the context of UN peacekeeping. There is also potential for AI to assist arms control and disarmament verification efforts. Mr. President, in this important technological shift, the Security Council can and should also be a driving force for safeguarding and respecting international law. The Nordic countries would like to emphasise that the Security Council should support efforts to regulate the development and use of AI rooted in international law and principles that ensure human dignity, privacy and non discrimination. We also recognise the important work and steps that the Security Council has already taken on this matter. Furthermore, we note the many initiatives made by the United Nations to address the issue and support further development of discussions in this field. Work by other organs of the UN is also important to consider in this context, such as the UNESCO recommendation of the ethics of AI. We would like to highlight the numerous tools such as the Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact that provide both guidance and platforms for all delegations to express their views and visions of AI governance. An example of this is the fact that the UN Human Rights Council is currently discussing challenges posed by AI to the right of privacy, non-discrimination, equality, and enjoyment of all human rights. The Nordic countries strongly support these initiatives and advocate for a unified, value-driven approach to global AI governance at the UN. And Mr. President, the Council has a role to play, to remain seized on this critical issue, to lend its support to the wide range of UN-led and other international processes, and to uphold international law as a cornerstone of its actions and decisions. And finally, we also reiterate that the Council has our undivided support and trust in the work ahead. and may count on our willingness to engage constructively on this issue. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank Her Excellency Ms. Gunnarsdottir for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Timcho Mutchunski, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of North Macedonia.

Excellencies, let me begin by thanking the Korean presidency for convening this meeting. It is timely. It is necessary. Artificial intelligence is not just another tool. It is already reshaping our economies, our democracies, our daily lives. With AI, the stakes could not be higher. The opportunities are enormous, but so are the risks. History reminds us that every great technological change, whether the printing press, the industrial revolution, or the internet, was once feared. Yet time and again, humanity has emerged stronger. The question before us is whether we will let fear divide us, or whether we will have the wisdom to shape AI so it serves us all. I speak as part of a younger generation in politics, one that does not see AI as a threat to be resisted, but as a catalyst to be harnessed. Our task is to ensure that this powerful advancement is guided by human responsibility, grounded in democratic values, and used to strengthen, not weaken, peace and security. That is why the United Nations must remain relevant, We need norms, principles, and cooperation to ensure that AI strengthens peace and security rather than undermining them. The Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact give us the first universal framework for digital governance. We must use it, strengthen it, make it real. Because the truth is simple. AI without human oversight will threaten our security and our humanity. AI with human responsibility can advance development, protect democracy, and even help resolve conflict. So let us treat this moment with the seriousness that it deserves. The decisions we make today will echo for generations to come, shaping not just information and governance, but peace and security itself. It is our duty to ensure that the power of AI is harnessed for the common good and that truth, justice, and equality remain at the heart of this new era. Thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Muchunski for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. William Kabogo Gitau Cabinet Secretary of Ministry of Information, Communications and Digital Economy of Kenya.

Thank you, Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished guests, and friends. Kenya thanks the Republic of Korea for convening this timely debate and commends the Secretary-General and all member states for their valuable insights. Yesterday at the General Assembly, His Excellency Dr. William Ruto President of the Republic of Kenya emphasized that the credibility of our multilateral systems depend on its ability to adapt to new realities. Artificial intelligence being one of the most defining moments. Mr. President, artificial intelligence offers transformative opportunities for peace and security. It can help predict and prevent conflict through early warning systems, detect and neutralize cyber threats in real time, fortify critical infrastructure, protect sensitive and sovereign data, and support humanitarian response by optimizing the delivery of life-saving assistance to vulnerable populations. Yet these benefits are matched by profound risks. AI-driven cyber attacks now threaten economies, and essential services with unprecedented speed and scale. Deep fakes and sophisticated disinformation erode public trust and destabilize democratic institutions. Autonomous weapons that act without meaningful human control challenge established norms of accountability, while mass surveillance threatens privacy and human rights. Mr. President, we are equally concerned about the growing geopolitical imbalance in AI development. Today, advanced AI infrastructure and compute capacity are concentrated largely in the global north, creating a form of data colonization where developing nations supply raw data and talent but remain dependent on foreign technologies. derive less economic values and vulnerable to external manipulation. This is no longer just a technology question. It is a matter of global peace and security. Kenya's approach to these challenges is proactive and principled. Our national AI strategy provides an ethical human centered blueprint for innovation. It embeds safety, fairness, and accountability from the earliest stage of design. philosophy of responsibility by design. Our forthcoming national AI policy will operationalize this through regulatory sandboxes for controlled experimentation, adaptive governance that can respond quickly to emerging risks, and robust capacity building to strengthen our digital sovereignty. In doing so, Mr. President, Kenya refuses to be passive consumers of technology, We are shaping how it serves our citizens and our region. This national effort is firmly aligned with the African Union's digital transformation strategy and the Malabo Convention on Cybersecurity and Personal Data Protection. By anchoring our work in continental frameworks, Kenya seeks to ensure that Africa's perspectives and values help shape the global norms of AI governance. We believe that developing countries must be co-authors, not mere rule takers, of the emerging international order around AI. Mr. President, drawing on the Global Commission on Responsible Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain, strategic guidance on responsible AI in the military domain, Kenya emphasizes three fundamental principles. One, human responsibility must remain central. Two, AI must be anchored in international law and ethical norms. And three, Mr. President, inclusive global governance is essential. AI in warfare cannot be shaped by unilateral ambition. It requires a multilateral framework where the global south has an equal voice, ensuring that new rules safeguards peace rather than entrench power asymmetries. Kenya, therefore, Mr. President, calls on this council and the wider international community to take three urgent actions. One, establish interoperable and inclusive standards for AI governance. The current patchwork of fragmented norms creates dangerous vulnerabilities. By drawing on regional frameworks such as the African Union's work and international conventions, we can build a global architecture that enables trust, protects data flows, and prevents a digital wild west where malicious actors thrive. Secondly, invest in regional capacity for AI and cybersecurity. The technology's gap between north and south is not a question of charity, but one of shared security. Nations without sovereign expertise exposed to exploitation, espionage, and manipulation. Finally, Mr. President, third, deliberately harness AI for peace and sustainable development. Beyond mitigating risks, we must channel AI's potential to address root causes of inability, from climate shock and food insecurity to health crisis and economic marginalization. Mr. President, Kenya stands ready to work with all member states to ensure that artificial intelligence becomes a force of peace, not conflict. By building coherent global standards, investing in shared capacity, and directing this technology towards resilience and human security, we can turn AI from a risk multiplier into a peace enabler. As President Ruto has urged, Multilateralism must not only adapt to the future, it must shape it inclusivity and justice. I thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Gitau for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Margus Saikuna, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Estonia.

Mr. President, thank you, Excellencies. Let me begin by commending the Republic of Korea bringing this important issue to the agenda of the Security Council. Few issues demonstrate as clearly as AI that we live in a world where opportunities and risks are tightly interlinked, including the context of global security. AI can help us prevent conflicts and protect civilians in crisis, but it can destabilize us. societies undermine democracy and threaten international peace and security. AI is not just another technology. It is becoming force multiplier across all domains of security. This is why the Security Council must recognize AI as integral to its core mandate. It is of utmost importance that AI remains human centric and is developed through a coordinated global approach. We need clear and inclusive frameworks that involves states, civil society, academia, and the private sector. This includes military uses, where the risks are especially high. Fully autonomous weapons raise serious questions of accountability and predictability. Our position is clear. International humanitarian law applies fully to new technologies. When human lives are at stake, there must always be human control. Responsibility for the use of force must rest with states and individuals, never with machines. Excellencies, Estonia speaks from own experience. Almost 20 years ago, we faced one of the first large scale state-backed cyber attacks. It showed us how vulnerable societies can be when technology is misused. But we also learned that resilience, transparency, and trust can turn weakness into strength. Today, Estonia is undergoing its next big step, our AI leap. We are providing the best technological tools available to our students and teachers, equipping them with the skills to use AI wisely and responsibly. We see this as an investment in social resilience and as a safeguard against digital divide. President, the stake are high. AI is one of the defining challenges of our time, but also one of the greatest opportunities. If we act together, we can ensure that AI strengthens peace, supports democracy, and upholds human dignity. Thank you, President.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Sakuna for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Edouard Bizimana, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Development Cooperation of Burundi.

Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen here present, Burundi welcomes the initiative of the Republic of Korea to convene this open debate on a matter that is increasingly emerging as a central issue of our time, artificial intelligence, and its implications for international peace and security. The emergence of artificial intelligence represents in unprecedented technological transformation, the effects of which are being felt across all areas of human activities, including those directly related to peace and international security. Artificial intelligence carries both significant opportunities and systemic risks. In light of this dual reality, it is imperative that we collectively uphold a fundamental principle: innovation in artificial intelligence must never come at the expense of peace, international law, and human dignity. As the body mandated by the UN Charter to maintain international peace and security, the Security Council has full legitimacy to address this issue. It is also it also bears the responsibility to anticipate its impacts, regulate its users and help ensure that artificial intelligence is harnessed in the service of stability, dialogue and human security. To this end, we wish to highlight the following points. First, as stated in the Pact of for the future adopted during the summit of the future it is essential to put scientific and technological progress including artificial intelligence at the service of humanity this pact marks a fundamental milestone in building a renewed inclusive multilateralism oriented towards future generations it affirms our Collective responsibility to regulate emerging technology in ways that promote peace, protect fundamental rights, and reduce inequalities. Burundi fully supports this vision. We believe that when used responsibly, artificial intelligence can become a valuable tool for conflict prevention, humanitarian response, and peacebuilding. Second, Artificial intelligence can enhance our ability to anticipate tensions, monitor ceasefire violations, and support mediation efforts. It can also optimize the delivery of humanitarian aid and strengthen the resilience of post-conflict institutions. However, Burundi emphasizes that the benefits of artificial intelligence must be accessible to all, including developing countries. And this requires, first of all, knowledge and technology transfer, fair north-south partnerships, and enhanced digital capacity building. The current technological divide must not lead to further marginalization of countries in the global south. from discussions or benefits related to artificial intelligence. And third, the malicious or uncontrolled use of artificial intelligence represents a growing threat. The development of lethal autonomous weapons, algorithmic manipulation of information, cyber attacks and mass surveillance are all phenomena that may undermine peace and fuel new forms of conflict. Burundi stresses the urgent need to regulate these practices through international standards adopted within a multilateral and inclusive framework. It is also essential to ensure that artificial intelligence is developed in accordance with international humanitarian law, human rights and the principles of technological ethics enshrined in the pact for the future. Fourth, the Security Council has a central role to play in establishing global governance of artificial intelligence that is preventive, ethical and inclusive. In this regard, Burundi would like to submit the following recommendations.

First.

Integrate an artificial intelligence dimension into conflict analysis and the mandates of peace operations where appropriate. Second, encourage the creation of an international expert mechanism on artificial intelligence-related risks to peace and security in collaboration with UN agencies, research centers, and member states. Third, support sustained dialogue between the United Nations, the private sector, and civil society in order to build a shared culture of technological responsibility. Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen, dear colleagues, artificial intelligence is not destiny, but a tool. And like any tool, it must be guided, regulated, and governed by values. Burundi is convinced that, based on the commitments made in the pacts for the future, we must act collectively to ensure that artificial intelligence strengthens international solidarity, promotes sustainable peace, and enables every state to make its voice heard and protect its legitimate interests. Finally, Burundi affirms its commitment to actively participate in multilateral efforts for an artificial intelligence that serves humanity and collective security. I thank you very much for your attention.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Bizimana for the statement. I now give the floor to Her Excellency Ms. Elisa Spiropali, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania.

Thank you, Mr. President. I thank the Presidency of the Republic of Korea for convening this timely debate on the role of artificial intelligence in international peace and security. Albania values this opportunity to reflect together on one of the most transformative issues of our time. We live in an era of extraordinary geopolitical volatility, where the boundaries between traditional and emerging threats are increasingly blurred. The rapid evolution of generative artificial intelligence is reshaping our global landscape. It offers unprecedented opportunities to support development, resilience and crisis prevention. Yet it also poses profound risks to information security, political stability and the rules-based international order. Albania strongly supports United Nations efforts to build a global framework for the safe, ethical and responsible use of AI. The Pact for the Future and its Global Digital Compact show our shared determination to address both the promises and perils of new technologies. The decision to establish a multidisciplinary independent international scientific panel, as well as last month's General Assembly resolution on implementation, are important steps to turn principles into concrete actions. But the challenges are far too great for any country to face alone. We must bridge digital divides, strengthen capacity and share best practices while ensuring that innovation is guided by human rights, international law and the principles of the UN Charter. At the national level, Albania is committed to advancing forward-looking policies and institutions that will allow us to responsibly harness the potential of AI. In this regard, just last week, Prime Minister Rama appointed Diela, an AI-integrated minister, making Albania the first country to bring artificial intelligence system into cabinet-level governance. Diela, meaning sunshine in Albanian, represents more than symbolism. It is a strategic step to strengthen transparency, accelerate efficiency and embed AI in national policy guided by principles of ethics, innovation, anti corruption and human rights. This is a concrete step reflecting our recognition that artificial intelligence must be integrated into governance in a way that serves our citizens, enhances public services and contributes to long term security and prosperity. We believe that AI is not only a technological challenge, but also a test of our collective ability to shape the future responsibly. The choice we make today will determine whether AI becomes a driver of peace, stability and development, or a source of instability and division. Albania stands ready to work closely with all member states, the United Nations, and relevant stakeholders to ensure that our joint efforts foster trust, inclusiveness, and sustainability in the use of AI. I thank you.

I thank her excellency Ms. Spiropali for the statement. I now give the floor to his excellency Mr. Takeshi Akahori, senior deputy minister for foreign affairs of Japan.

Thank you, Mr. President. Japan welcomes the timely convening of this open debate by His Excellency, Mr. Yoon Suk-yeol, President of the Republic of Korea. Artificial intelligence offers us many opportunities for innovation. However, to fully harness its potential, it is imperative to build an appropriate international AI governance structure to mitigate its risks and to realize safe, secure, and trustworthy AI. To this end, Japan took a leading role in launching the Hiroshima AI process in 2023, formulating the international guiding principles and the code of conduct. In February 2025, a reporting framework was established to verify the implementation status of companies complying with this international code of conduct. It is crucial to promote innovation while ensuring safety and trust. Japan will continue its efforts to support improving the environment for utilization and development of AI, as well as building its governance at the global level, including in developing countries. It is particularly important to recognize that while AI application in the military domain may bring benefits such as enhanced operational efficiency and improved protection of civilians, It also presents risks, including the potential for misuse, malicious deployment, and unintended escalation. To harness AI in a manner that contributes to international peace and security, it is crucial to foster a common international understanding on AI and its capabilities and limitations, alongside providing capacity building assistance and exchanging good practices. In addition, deepening understanding on AI application in the military domain and promoting realistic and practical efforts towards its responsible use would also be meaningful. Japan remains committed to actively and constructively engaging in international discussions with the aim of achieving a common understanding in the international community through balanced discussions that take into account humanitarian considerations and security perspectives. To keep pace with the rapid evolution of AI and realize globally safe, secure and trustworthy AI, international cooperation is indispensable. I am confident that this open debate will play a significant role in advancing cooperative frameworks among nations. I thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Kahori for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Amr El-Shehiny, Assistant Foreign Minister for Multilateral Affairs of Egypt.

Mr. President, I have the honor to address this Council at this critical moment of our common history as we are discussing a crucial subject where technology intersects with international peace and security. Ladies and gentlemen, Artificial intelligence has become one of the key features of the fourth revolution of information, which provides unprecedented opportunities to enhance public services and enhance innovation in different sectors, education, health, agriculture, and public administration. By adopting this technology in a responsible manner, states will have the chance to open horizons for growth, bridge the technological gap, and make developments that respond to the aspirations of their people. In this respect, Egypt has taken leading steps to ensure governance of artificial intelligence, including establishing the National Council for AI and launching the Innovation Center. His Excellency Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of Egypt, has launched the second phase of an initiative from 2025 to 2030. At the continental and regional level, Egypt played critical role in establishing the continental strategy of artificial intelligence under the auspices of the African Union and the Common Arab Initiative Strategy of AI in the League of Arab States. They ensure accountability, transparency, and respect of privacy and cultural peculiarities within AI. Mr. President, AI holds potential for enhancing peace and security, either through early warning or improving tools of analysis or support peacebuilding efforts. AI can help tracing terrorist and criminal groups and build capacities of national institutions to ensure law and order. At the same time, we are not unaware of the risks that may come of misuse of this technology, like the hate speech, cyber attacks, deep fake, and the ensuing risk to national security. These risks become more complex when AI is used in military field by like the use of autonomous lethal weapons that raises questions about their compliance to international ministerial law and the absence of humanitarian accountability in decisions of targeting. The recent developments in many conflict parts in the world including the systemic destruction in Gaza, re stress the urgent need to have a governing framework of the use of AI in military field under the auspices of the UN to put controls on the use of applications of artificial intelligence. Ladies and gentlemen, before I conclude, I would like to refer to the future of AI, in particular AGI, which might transform the nature of relationship between humans and technology. Current systems are confined to certain tasks, yet the new one will have knowledge that is beyond the human capacity. It will accelerate human and science development, but it places on us collective responsibility to ensure that is designed and used according to ethical standards. Ladies and gentlemen, artificial intelligence is not just a tool of technology, it is a reflection of our common values and our ability to cooperate for a more sustainable and equitable future. Through constructive dialogue, we can direct this fast-evolving technology for peace, development, and dignity of humanity at large. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank His Excellency Mr. El Sherbini for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Enrique Javier Ochoa Martinez, Deputy Foreign Minister for Multilateral Affairs and Human Rights of Mexico.

Thank you very much, Mr. President. Artificial intelligence is having an accelerated and transformative impact on our societies. The field of peace and security is no exception. On the contrary, the AI applications in security matters can offer unprecedented opportunities, but they also carry profound risks. On the one hand, it can support early warning systems and improve the accuracy of certain logistical tasks. On the other, It can also amplify technological inequalities, reproducing harmful bias and, if misused, trigger dynamics of instability or even an arms race. The increasing use of AI in the conduct of hostilities during armed conflicts can also lead to detachment and dehumanization that are contrary to the purposes of international humanitarian law and international human rights law. For Mexico, it is not enough to speak of responsible use. What's needed is substantive content that will guarantee respect for international law. So this is not about perfecting mechanisms of war, much rather it's about strengthening conflict prevention tools through the development of equality in our societies. The risks are tangible. Bias in facial recognition or threat classification algorithms can lead to the misidentification of targets and harm to civilians. Automation without meaningful human oversight threatens the principle of distinction, proportionality, and precaution, which are the cornerstone of international humanitarian law. In addition, the potential integration of AI into nuclear command and control systems shortens decision making timelines and increases the risk of miscalculation. In short, we cannot speak of the responsible use of this technology in the military sphere when there is still no clarity or technological certainty with regard to its predictability. For these reasons, Mexico believes that the Security Council can make a concrete contribution to having a balanced discussion on the use and development of AI and emerging technologies in the military sphere in these following respects. First, by fostering participatory technical and legal spaces that avoid duplicating the efforts of other fora. and that make it possible to have an analysis of specific risks to peace and security, including the structural bias that affects countries with less technological capacity. Second, by supporting mechanisms for meaningful human oversight and accountability, including prior reviews in accordance with Article 36 of Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions for any integration of AI into weapons systems. In conclusion, President, the benefits and risks of AI should not be seen in the same light as each other without critical analysis. There is still no consensus on whether the benefits outweigh the risks when it comes to military use. We must proceed cautiously, giving a priority to peace and conflict prevention, always bearing in mind respect for fundamental rights and international law. Thank you very much.

I thank His Excellency Mr Ochoa for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr Ruben Darío Molina, Vice Minister for Multilateral Affairs of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Thank you very much, Mr President. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela would like to thank the Republic of Korea for convening this open high-level debate on artificial intelligence and its potential impact for international peace and security. President, undoubtedly artificial intelligence is developing at great speed today, transforming human life in various areas and Although this can provide significant opportunities, it also represents serious risks if it is used for reasons which have nothing to do with peace, such as for military purposes. Amongst the most urgent risks are the possibility that artificial intelligence could be used as a weapon against human life that would lead to new arms races or that would lead to miscalculations that could escalate conflicts. We need to make progress in a cautious, prudent, and responsible consensus that avoid absolute military superiority and, on the contrary, promote multilateral cooperation and mutual trust. President, given this reality, we must build inclusive multilateral consensus that is based on international law and strictly adhering to the letter and spirit of the UN Charter. In other words, we must proceed towards global governance of artificial intelligence, which favours not only cooperation, trust and security, both collective as well as indivisible security, but also that we ensure that we respect international law, that there is accountability and that we place the human being at the centre of any application of this technology. In this regard, we must underscore a reality which it's impossible to ignore. Developing countries are facing great inequalities and a significant technological divide which places us in a situation of greater vulnerability. That's why international cooperation, where there's no space for so-called sanctions, should include the transfer of technology and knowledge, also predictable funding and training programmes that will provide equal access to the benefits of this technology, always bearing in mind sustainable development and the well-being of our peoples. President, this Security Council, whose main mandate is to preserve international peace and security, Therefore, has an essential role in guaranteeing that artificial intelligence does not become a new instrument of hegemony or aggression, but much rather a tool for peace, progress, and the common wellbeing of humanity. So I conclude reiterating the firm commitment of Venezuela to an inclusive and responsible multilateralism, which will guide artificial intelligence towards peaceful, just, and supportive purposes. Thank you very much, Mr. President.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Dario for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Robert Abisov Gomonyan, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Armenia.

Thank you, Mr. President. The delegation of the Republic of Armenia welcomes this UN Security Council open debate under the presidency of the Republic of Korea. We thank the distinguished briefers for their remarks. Today, we face growing unpredictability as warfare is shaped by drones, artificial intelligence, and autonomous weapon systems. The integration of AI together with Lethal autonomous weapons capable of engaging targets without meaningful human control raises serious humanitarian, legal and ethical concerns. These developments are no longer theoretical. They already influence the dynamics of conflicts and their unchecked spread could create instability far beyond individual battlefields. These concerns directly affect international peace and security. Without regulation, the risks include an arms race, conflict escalation, miscalculation, and proliferation of unauthorized recipients or non-state actors, which increases the danger of human rights violations and the absence of oversight. Effective regulation must therefore address the entire life cycle of such technologies, from design to deployment and use. Mr. President, Armenia's position is clear. International law, and in particular international humanitarian law, including the principles of legality, proportionality, precautions and distinction must apply fully in all weapons, past, present and future. We strongly believe that these principles cannot be compromised or selectively applied in the context of new technologies. Armenia believes that discussions on potential benefits of military application of AI can only take place once regulation and the common understanding among states exist. While AI may offer advantages in precision and situational awareness, such benefits cannot outweigh the humanitarian and ethical risks unless solid safeguards are in place. The international community must first close normative gaps ensure compliance with international law, and establish effective safeguards. Mr. President, we believe the United Nations and the Security Council should help bridge differences and find common ground. We encourage inclusive dialogue that reflects the perspective of all regions, particularly smaller states, whose security and stability are equally at stake. Armenia is ready to join its efforts and contribute to this essential work. In conclusion, let me thank the government of the Republic of Korea for organizing this open debate on this extremely pressing issue and what is more important for its constant attention to the issue of responsible AI use in military domain. I thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Abi Sogomonyan for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Olivier Unduhun Kirehe, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Rwanda.

Mr. President, I'm happy to see you presiding over this council. I wish to thank the briefers and delegations who spoke before me. Obviously, artificial intelligence is a rapidly changing aspect of human life in modern history. transforming every aspect of human activities across both military and civilian environments. It is a double-edged sword capable of promoting and undermining international peace and security depending on the intentions. In the context of peace and security, this emerging technology serves as a crucial enabler for implementing digital transformation strategies in peacekeeping. In this field, AI can be a powerful tool for conflict prevention, data collection and analysis, enhanced decision-making, protection against cyber threats and surveillance, and reconnaissance for accurate and timely intelligence to respond to any threats to peace and security, to name but a few. While those attributes can undoubtedly improve peace operations, The risks posed by a lack of governance frameworks, misinformation, disinformation, hateful content, and cyber threats for ill-intended users are non-negligible. Mr. President, technological advancement is growing rapidly, outpacing the legal and regulatory frameworks, and this presents major concerns for human rights, international humanitarian law and accountability, especially in military operations. These issues coupled with the fragmented multilateral environment due to the global geopolitics, host nation's internal politics, and digital divides between the global north and the global south, pose a growing concern that the use of AI in peacekeeping may cause greater insecurity while widening development gaps. Applying AI in the military domain offers strategic and operational advantages, but it requires a careful balance between maximizing its strategic advantages and ensuring ethical, legal, and operational safeguards while keeping in mind that the widespread adoption of AI technologies in the military systems could complicate efforts to regulate the proliferation of weapons. To promote a positive use of AI in the context of peace and security, this council should invest more efforts to promote multilateral cooperation aimed at sharing knowledge and capacity building to bridge the digital divide between member states and enhance regulatory and ethical frameworks. The government of Rwanda has opted to leverage the benefits of AI to improve social wellbeing and national security. From Rwanda's perspective, balancing innovation with ethical and humanitarian concerns will be essential to responsibly harnessing AI's potential. Establishing frameworks for governance and accountability, can help mitigate the risks associated with the application of AI while maximizing its benefits. Therefore, the application of AI in the military domain must be guided by strict standards coupled with ethical considerations. To conclude, Mr. President, there is no doubt that AI can be used as a critical tool to help its keepers in many domains.

However,

Its use in the military domain remains a crucial debate to ensure that we put in place necessary safeguards. The use of AI tools in the context of conflict prevention is encouraged. I thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Unduhun Girehe for the statement. I now give the floor to Her Excellency Mrs. Oana Silvia Chioiu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Romania.

Your Excellency, Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, I would like to thank Republic of Korea for proposing this essential topic. The Secretary-General's vision and the insights provided by the briefers revealed both opportunities and challenges in a world faced by overlapping and multifaceted crises. The rapid advances that we are witnessing nowadays in AI pose risks to global peace and security. but could also serve as multipliers for maintaining it. The key to ensure that technological progress will aid rather than harm our societies lies in making sure that our legal and our governance norms and practices keep up with the pace of change or even better anticipate it. International cooperation and improved governance of AI must be the way forward. We are committed to upholding the international rule-based order in the cyberspace and encourages future implementation and development in line with international law. We do believe in a human centric approach to AI, making sure that the end results of technological advancement serve humanity's advancement first and foremost. We are also firm believers in a whole of society approach and in teaming up with the private sector as most innovation comes from there and civil society to keep it accountable. AI based technologies and systems could play an important role as catalysts of our activities, boosting productivity, accuracy, increasing efficiency and effectiveness. AI technologies can provide more predictive capacities in assisting training, in mapping, in analyzing big data, all critical areas of peace operations. Regrettably, as all dual use technologies, AI also comes with important risks that we need to mitigate. We have seen AI enabled malicious hybrid actions, including cyber attacks and disinformation campaigns. We have already proven to be real challenges. for many of the UN's member states, including Romania. Romania has the unwanted privilege to have seen firsthand the impact of malicious AI use on our democratic processes. Both AI-generated content and AI-supported inorganic social media campaigns have been used as part of hostile hybrid foreign state interference attempts. And based on report from institutions from Moldova, we are seeing the same risks in the elections that they are facing. It is imperative for the international community to continue to address these challenges by establishing principles, international norms, and regulations anchored in human rights and international law to ensure the responsible use and development of such technology. Romania believes in the power of AI to also mitigate these recent challenges by countering propaganda and disinformation campaigns and monitoring border activities. Moreover, humans must remain the ultimate decision maker on the use of lethal force, have authority over lethal weapon system at all times, and remain accountable for decisions over the use of force in order to ensure compliance with international law and international humanitarian law. Thank you.

I thank her excellency, Ms. Cho Yu, for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Armando Mansueta, Vice Minister for Innovation and Technology of Dominican Republic.

Thank you.

Mr. President, distinguished members of the council, we stand at a pivotal moment. AI is no longer a tool for the future. It is a force actively reshaping how economies function, how conflicts evolve, and how threats to peace materialize across digital and physical domains. From our perspective, three concerns must guide urgent multilateral action. First, the proliferation of lethal autonomous weapon systems without meaningful human control represents a clear and immediate danger to strategic stability and to international humanitarian law. The world must act before such systems becomes normalized or widespread. Second, AI is being deployed to amplify disinformation, manipulate public discourse, and enable hybrid threats, including cyber attacks, targeting democratic institutions. Peace today is not only disrupted by conventional weapons, but also by digital assaults of trust, truth and sovereignty. Third, we are deeply concerned about the growing asymmetries in access to and governance of emerging technologies, which risk exacerbating global inequalities and undermining the sovereignty of developing nations. Mr. President, in 2023, the Dominican Republic adopted its national AI strategy, grounded in principles of human centric, safe, transparent and ethical AI, along with robust data governance and cybersecurity frameworks. We therefore join the call to prohibit the development and deployment of lethal autonomous weapon systems lacking meaningful human oversight, strengthen international cooperation on cybersecurity and information integrity, and ensure inclusive, anticipatory global governance of AI that promotes peace, reduces harm, and protects the dignity and rights of all the people. Peace today is not only about disarmament. It's also about algorithm accountability, digital resilience, and ethical governance of the technologies that shape our shared future. Let us ensure that artificial intelligence never undermines our collective intelligence for the betterment of the world.

Thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Manzita for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Lasha Dasalia Dasalia, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Georgia.

Thank you, Mr. President, Excellencies. At the outset, I would like to thank the Republic of Korea for convening this very timely high-level debate that offers a valuable opportunity for an exchange of ideas and diverse perspectives on growing significance of artificial intelligence in the context of international peace and security. Dear colleagues, The widespread use of artificial intelligence across both civilian and military and domains has profoundly transformed numerous facets of our lives by bringing tremendous opportunities and challenges for societies. The dual nature of AI, along with its untapped potential to usher progress in areas like conflict prevention, peacekeeping, proliferation, risk monitoring, and humanitarian responses, simultaneously presents critical threats, including militarization, cyber attacks, deep fakes, AI-generated disinformation, and growing environmental footprint. Let me stress, that addressing these challenges puts once again multilateral cooperation at the forefront, where human rights-based and multi-stakeholder approach is key towards achieving a fair balance between mitigating risks and embracing the potential offered by AI. We further believe that AI progress must take place within the existing framework of international law, in particular the UN Charter, international humanitarian law, and human rights, because only by implementing human rights-based governance grounded in international law can we foster safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems. At the same time, let me highlight the United Nations key role in developing globally coordinated approaches in this direction. To this end, the effective implementation of the Global Digital Compact adopted by leaders at the Summit of the Future will be crucial to our combined efforts to govern AI for humanity. However, in our reality of full of new challenges, we consider that the UN Security Council must recognize the risks posed by AI and continue to raise awareness of its cross-cutting impact on peace and security. We are pleased to note that Georgia took a significant step forward by signing the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and Rule of Law, the first ever international legally binding treaty in this field. We are also part of elaboration of methodology, a new Council of Europe tool provides guidance and the structured approach to carry out risk and impact assessment for artificial intelligence system. Currently, Georgia is engaged in the elaboration, who they, uh, elaboration of food area model, which will provide supporting materials and resources, including flexible tools and scale, scalable recommendations in conclusion. that we once again underscore that Georgia is committed to collaborating with the international community to ensure that AI technology is developed and implemented in a manner that serves the interests of humanity by advancing human rights and fostering international peace and security. I thank you very much.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Darsalia for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Bernard Cots State Secretary of the Federal Foreign Office of Germany.

Honorable President, Excellencies, in August, Russia attacked Kiev using no less than 600 drones. By killing 25 civilians, Russia also damaged the EU mission, blatantly defying the inviolability of diplomatic representations. This is Russia's answer to peace efforts led by President Trump. but it also shows how Russia's war of aggression is changing. In 2022, rusty tanks and ancient munitions were prevailing, but today Russia's aggression is characterized by drone swarms. Excellencies, analysts tell us that we are yet to see the full impact of the AI revolution on the battlefield. Imagine the conduct if countries were to successfully exploit the full power of machine learning in its warfare. The Security Council's primary job is to maintain peace and security. Thus, AI as ultimate dual use technology needs to feature on the Security Council's agenda. AI can be a force for good. It can speed up economic and sustainable development. It can be a key for better targeted delivery of humanitarian aid and in medical research. But it can also be misused against democratic processes, to spread misinformation, to commit terrorist attacks. Excellencies, the task this Council faces is enormous. Last year, Germany and Namibia co-facilitated the Pact for the Future. Part of it is the Global Digital Compact, beginning of the United Nations work to leverage AI for the benefit of humanity. This week, all United Nations member states are invited to the meeting to launch the first ever global dialogue on AI governance. Our host, the Republic of Korea, and the Netherlands co-facilitated General Assembly Resolution 79-239, which for the first time put the use of AI in the military domain in the context of international law. I want to be very clear. Firstly, AI can only be as good as the data that goes into its models. Users need to be able to assess this data. And secondly, as AI is increasingly driving the targeting and execution of weapon system, people always need to take the final decision. Excellencies, Together, we must tap AI's immense transformative potential to advance humankind and our planet. Let us seize the opportunity to make life safer, more just, and more prosperous. Thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Kots for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Omran Sharaf, Assistant Minister for Advanced Science and Technology of the United Arab Emirates.

Mr. President, I would first like to commend the Republic of Korea for hosting this important discussion. I also thank the Secretary-General and the other speakers for their insightful contribution. Their remarks have made it quite clear: artificial intelligence holds immense potential for international peace and security. However, as this technology develops at warp speed, you must ensure that AI becomes a tool for building a more peaceful and secure world, not a new frontier for conflict. In this regard, the United Arab Emirates would like to share a few points for the Council's consideration. Responsible AI governance is key to preventing it from being exploited for dangerous ends by irresponsible states or non-state actors. This requires strong guardrails, rigorous due diligence, and firm responses by the international community to diversion, proliferation, and misuse. AI innovation is, of course, important. However, competition in this regard should not compromise global peace, security, and stability. We should strengthen the exchange of lessons and best practices and adopt measures

that reinforce accountability and compliance with international law. We must also ensure that AI governance frameworks

are adaptable to other technological advancements, such as quantum computing, to manage emerging risks effectively. Second, while AI comes with inherent risks if used responsibly and in compliance with international law, including international humanitarian law, AI can also play a positive role by strengthening early warning systems, supporting conflict prevention, enhancing peace operations, protecting civilians, and aiding recovery after conflict.

So we must anchor this framework in trust, credibility, and stability.

This requires us to advance broad AI literacy to ensure that AI systems are guided by ethical principles. We cannot allow this technology to replicate real world biases and undermine decades of progress made in the fight against discrimination, especially against women, girls, and persons with disabilities. Mr. President, Allow me to conclude by highlighting the UAE's own approach, which is shaped by our commitment to stability, innovation, and responsible cooperation. The UAE is among the first countries to articulate a clear foreign policy position on AI. We promote the responsible development and use of AI that delivers peace and stability wherever it is deployed, when applied correctly and with accountability. Strategic AI partnerships are essential for nations seeking a role in sustaining global peace, particularly those developing core technologies. The UAE's long-term goal is for its AI ecosystem through development and deployment to set a benchmark that contributes towards wider stability and structure internationally. Since AI's benefits show that the only credible path forward is building robust, innovative, political and economic ecosystems. So today, let us all commit to shaping AI's trajectory so that it advances international peace and security rather than undermine it. Thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Sharaf for the statement. I now give the floor to Her Excellency Mrs. Mari Therese Sonbo Ayane, Minister for Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Thank you, Mr. President, for giving me the floor. Mr. President, Excellencies, It is a tremendous honor for me to represent the Democratic Republic of Congo during this high-level debate of the Security Council, which is being held on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. I wish to thank the Republic of Korea for presiding over this debate and other speakers. I also wish to thank His Excellency, President of the Republic, Felix Tshisekedi Tshilombo, Head of State and Grand Chancellor of Universities and Higher Institutions of the DRC, and all of the organizers of the General Assembly, the United Nations, and the Security Council for the organization of this open debate on artificial intelligence and its impact on international peace and security. The DRC, through the government headed by the Prime Minister, Madam Judith Suminwa Tuluka, views artificial intelligence not merely as a technology, but also as a strategic lever for the achievement of technological progress and economic development. In harnessing AI, there's a critical need to adopt an approach guided by ethics and responsibility throughout the value chain, from the design of semiconductors and electronic chips to the use of calculation and storage infrastructure and including the development of intelligent software that is capable of transforming key sectors including healthcare, education, agriculture, energy, and transport. In that vein, the Democratic Republic of Congo has carried out inclusive and structured work. We have used the UNESCO's RAM methodology, the Readiness Assessment Methodology, which resulted in June 2025, resulted in the validation of our first national report on AI accompanied by a strategic roadmap. This text map, this text, sets out the major challenges related to the development of AI, including issues related to regulation, basic infrastructure that needs to be set up, and updating instruction. The report is a national compass, so to speak, in terms of artificial intelligence, and it is based on three key pillars. Firstly, governance and regulation. The DRC advocates establishing a digital traceability mechanism for the minerals used in artificial intelligence technologies in order to ensure an ethical, transparent, and responsible approach in the value chain second human Capital my country intends to establish specialized networks specializing in microelectronics and artificial intelligence at the higher education level in order to train highly qualified people and to prepare the country to hold a strategic position in the global digital economy. Third, industrialization. My country encourages the establishment of standards and norms for local artificial intelligence solutions in order to ensure their interoperability, their international competitiveness, and to ensure that they contribute to an inclusive transformation of key sectors. This vision illustrates the desire of the DRC to become a solution country, a country that can bring together partnerships and expertise and a country that can fully benefit from our wealth of natural and human resources in order to craft a value chain of robust, ethical, and equitable AI. We seek also to contribute to responsible global governance of artificial intelligence. We stand ready to share our experience and to collaborate together to build inclusive AI models that are tailored to reflect African and global contexts. This integrated approach to AI is geared towards establishing a strategic economic tool, but also through traceable investments, is focused on ensuring peace and security on our territory as we face a war whose well-identified goals are, inter alia, seizing ownership of strategic minerals that contribute to manufacturing tools and crafting processes that are linked to AI. As the US government advocated through the agreement, which was signed between the DRC and Rwanda in June 2025, the negotiations which were steered by the US, our territorial integrity is not negotiable. Our territorial integrity must as a priority be safeguarded. The President of the Republic, His Excellency Felix Antoine Chisokidie Chilombo, when he spoke before the 80th session of the General Assembly at the General Debate recalled the firm stance of the Congolese government in the face of the genocide which is taking place in the DRC. Therefore, we continue to engage in vigilant cooperation and we wish to contribute to world peace. But this peace begins with the recognition of our very own tragedy. As the President eloquently stated, we are in favor of the development of AI which will not undermine the international peace and security. Congolese governments, academics, and researchers stand ready to be engaged through an AI strategy that will be developed to ensure that AI is integrated in a positive way at the national, regional, and global levels. We have engaged in dialogue on these matters, including through scientific exchanges and capacity building during our visit to China in August 2025 and to Paris for UNESCO last month on the sidelines of the Digital Learning Week. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, ministers, distinguished guests, dear partners, the DRC reaffirms our commitment to making AI an engine for inclusive, sustainable, strategic progress for our people and for the benefit of the international community. We stand ready to cooperate with all United Nations structures and bodies to achieve all of the goals of the global dialogue on AI governance in order to buttress the political momentum and future progress on AI, as well as to advance inclusive and responsible AI governance for humanity. Thank you for your attention.

I thank her Excellency, Mrs. Sonboayan for the statement. I now give the floor to his Excellency, Mr. Thomas Quiber, Deputy State Secretary of Switzerland.

Mr. President, I would like to thank you for having convened this meeting to address one of the essential issues of our time. Addressing the impact of scientific and technological advances requires first and foremost that we understand and anticipate them. In October 2024, under the Swiss presidency, the Council adopted a presidential statement affirming its determination to more systematically take into account scientific developments so as to proactively identify critical areas for action in the area of peace and security. Therefore, we welcome the leadership of the Republic of Korea in continuing discussions on this important issue. Switzerland would like to highlight the following points. Firstly, the rapid progress of AI and the spread of its applications have repercussions across all aspects of international peace and security. This poses many challenges. For example, the speed of AI-based decision-making processes can defy human control, and excessive dependence on or insufficient control of AI in the use of force poses a danger. Responsibility for illegal or harmful consequences may be unclear and the judgment of those responsible may be impaired, for example, if bias in an AI system remains undetected. This makes it urgent for the United Nations and the Security Council to take coordinated action to maximize the benefits and to mitigate the risks. beyond the need for a coordinated approach within the United Nations, each country can already act within the existing legal framework. Since AI is not developing in a legal vacuum, but within the framework of international law, we must guarantee compliance with international legal framework, particularly the United Nations Charter, international humanitarian law and human rights, to protect individuals and communities from the risks associated with AI. Secondly, it is our shared responsibility to ensure inclusive governance of AI. In this regard, we support the recommendation of the Secretary General in his report entitled Artificial Intelligence in the Military Field and its Implications for International Peace and Security. This report encourages states to engage in inclusive and constructive deliberations to advance common understandings and strengthen international cooperation in order to mitigate risks. The Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law is a good example. establishing binding standards on transparency and non-discrimination. This convention, which was facilitated by Switzerland, complements existing international standards on human rights, democracy, and the rule of law, and aims to fill the legal gaps that could result from rapid technological advances. In order to mitigate the impact of AI, transparency is essential. We cannot regulate a technology without first understanding it. And with this in mind, the Swiss AI initiative was launched this month entitled Apertus. This is Switzerland first open and multilingual language model, fully transparent and freely accessible. This model embodies our commitment to promoting an open and inclusive AI systems designed to be used for the benefit of all, thereby bringing people together rather than exacerbating divisions. A remarkable feature of this initiative is that approximately 40% of its training data is not in English, which enables better multilingual performance, including for underrepresented languages. We hope that this inclusivity will help to reduce cultural divisions and prevent conflicts. Lastly, we advocate greater international engagement to develop robust and inclusive governance frameworks. We are actively participating in UN processes to promote responsible AI governance, particularly in the military domain and in relation to international peace and security. The Council's discussions should build on these efforts without duplicating them. Switzerland remains convinced of the importance of the Council to systematically examine these developments in order to anticipate threats to peace and to define appropriate policy responses. Thank you.

I thank His Excellency, Mr. Guiber, for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency, Mr. Muzaffar Madrahimov, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan.

Thank you, Mr. President, distinguished members of the Security Council. At outset, allow me to express my sincere appreciation to the delegation of Republic of Korea for convening this timely and strategically important debate on the role of artificial intelligence in maintaining international peace and security. We live in an era of profound technological transformation. Advances that once seemed distant are now altering the way humanity lives and governs itself. Artificial intelligence stands at the forefront of this change. Its potential is immense. It can advance medical diagnostics and climate forecasting, improve transport system and governance, and transform economies. Yet, alongside these opportunities, there are grave risks. AI can be misused in military applications, cyber attacks, disinformation campaigns, and in ways that threaten human rights and humanitarian law. This is why today's discussion in the Security Council is both urgent and essential. Mr. President, for Uzbekistan, the development of artificial intelligence is not only about technological progress. It is an integral part of our long-term strategy for sustainable development. In 2024, Uzbekistan adopted the Artificial Intelligence Development Strategy until 2030. which provides a clear framework for ensuring that AI is developed and applied in a safe, ethical, and human-centered manner. The strategy addresses security by applying AI in public safety, strengthening cybersecurity and data protection, enforcing ethical and legal standards for transparent use, and mitigating threats that could undermine peace and stability. It is also underlines the importance of international cooperation to prevent the unchecked or asymmetric use of AI technologies. We believe this approach is fully aligned with the objectives of the United Nations to safeguard peace, stability, and sustainable development in digital era. Distinguished members of Security Council, we see artificial intelligence as both a national priority for Uzbekistan and regional opportunity for Central Asia. Our region faces shared challenges, water scarcity, climate change, modernization of healthcare education, and development of cross regional transport corridors. AI can provide innovative solutions in areas such as water and agriculture, energy and healthcare, and connectivity. Central Asia has already demonstrated unity in addressing common challenges. A milestone came in July 2025 when U.N. General Assembly, at the initiative of Tajikistan, adopted a resolution of the role of AI in sustaining peace and development. Uzbekistan fully supported this initiative, reaffirming our commitment to advancing regional cooperation in AI and digitalization. We believe that through such steps, Central Asia can serve as a bridge between Asia and Europe in shaping a fair and inclusive digital future. At the global level, Uzbekistan attaches high importance to strengthening multilateral governance of AI. We have supported all four AI-related resolutions adopted by General Assembly in 2025, including those initiated by United States, China, Tajikistan, and resolution establishing a UN scientific panel and global dialogue on AI governance. Together, these documents represent a solid normative foundation. It is now vital for the Security Council to complement this work by focusing specifically on the peace and security dimensions of artificial intelligence. In this regard, the President of Uzbekistan, during the general debate of 80 session of General Assembly, proposed the creation of international cooperation mechanism for sharing applied AI solutions in healthcare, education and industry. This initiative aims to ensure that the results of scientific research and technological innovation accessible to all, especially to developing countries most in need. We hope for your support and cooperation in advancing this initiative. Mr. President, the world is changing with unprecedented speed. Artificial intelligence can become a driver of shared prosperity and sustainable peace, or catalyst of instability and insecurity. We must prevent digital inequality and technological divides. If left unaddressed, these gaps risk creating new dependencies, deepening instability and eroding trust among nations. Uzbekistan firmly believes that through dialogue, international cooperation, and full respect for the Charter of the United Nations, we can ensure that AI serves the purposes of peace, development, and human being. We stand ready to work with all member states to help shape a fair, safe, and inclusive digital future. Thank you.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Madraimov for the statement. I now give the floor to Ms. Cordula Dregge, Chief Legal Officer and Head of the Legal Division of the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Mr. President, Excellencies, my remarks today are based on the ICRC's 160 years experience on the battlefield, where for every weapon introduced, our delegates have witnessed the results firsthand, not the results claimed by the developers and users, the good, the bad, and the unconscionable. We have identified three applications of AI in the military domain that pose significant risks: AI in autonomous weapon systems, in military decision-making, and in information and communication technologies. Promoters of these new AI applications underscore their military utility, but each of them also carries risks. AI-enabled autonomous weapons can engage their targets in communications denied environments, but AI increases the risk that human users will be unable to understand, predict, and control the weapon's effects, making it indiscriminate and unlawful under international humanitarian law. AI decision support systems can analyze vast amounts of data in seconds to produce recommendations for the commander. but their speed and scale, exacerbated by automation bias, might lead to simple rubber stamping, replacing human judgment rather than supporting it. AI-enabled cyber capabilities can identify and exploit new vulnerabilities in an enemy's computer systems. However, this also increases the risk of indiscriminate attacks, incidental damage to civilian infrastructure, and uncontrolled escalation of conflict. Mr. President, the claim that new weapons will be more humane, less lethal, more precise has been made by all promoters of new technologies on battlefields for as long as the ICRC can remember. Chemical weapons were advertised as more benign than artillery in the First World War, blinding laser weapons as less lethal than bullets in the 1980s, but this is not what we have seen historically and it is not what we are seeing now. If we contemplate today's most technologically sophisticated conflicts, we have not seen better outcomes for civilians, but rather the most appalling and indiscriminate devastation. The qualities advertised in new technologies have led not to precision, distinction and precaution, but to acceleration, amplification and escalation of destruction. The lesson is clear we must not allow these systems to continue to be developed without oversight and regulation, based on a realistic assessment of their compliance with international humanitarian law. I will close with two requests. First, to conclude as soon as possible a treaty on autonomous weapons systems, and second, to adopt a human-centered approach to military AI to ensure that human control and judgment are preserved in all decisions that pose risks to the life and dignity of people affected by war. Thank you very much.

There are still a number of speakers remaining on my list for this meeting. I intend with the concurrence of the members of the council to suspend the meeting until tomorrow, 26th September at 10 a.m. This meeting is suspended.