UN Transcripts — https://transcripts.un.org/en/ga/c1/80/6
First Committee, 6th plenary meeting - General Assembly, 80th session — First Committee — 14 October 2025
Language: en
Automatically generated transcript — may contain errors. Not an official United Nations record.

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1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [0:05]:

The sixth meeting of the Disarmament in the International security committee. The first committee of the 80th session of the General assembly is called to order.

Distinguished delegates, the Committee will continue this afternoon with its general debate on all disarmament and international security agenda items allocated to it. We will now turn to our list of speakers for today and I urge all delegations taking the floor to kindly keep in mind the suggested time limit for statements. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Tunisia. You have the floor.


Tunisia [0:49]:

Thank you. Chair. At the outset, we'd like to congratulate you on your election to chair the First Committee. We wish you every success.

We would like to express to you and to your bureau our support to your efforts to ensure our work successful. We align ourselves. Made by the AR Group, Africa Group and then on a line. Chair Tunisie welcomes the important role played by the First Committee in disarmament efforts on disarmination and prevention of proliferation of mass description to guarantee and maintain international security, particularly given that conflicts and crises continue in different areas of the world. Regional and international conflicts are worsening.

There's less traffic. Trust in the international law. There's also international law and in multilateralism, too.

We reiterate the importance of stepping up our efforts to put an end to the illicit trafficking of weapons of all types and efforts to prevent terrorist groups from getting hold of these weapons, including weapons of mass destruction and nuclear weapons. For our country, 2025 is a year for strengthening international cooperation and multilateralism and cooperation with the UN system. Thus, we organized, in partnership with vdpo, an international cooperation, an international conference on the role of armed forces in the protection of civilians in Peacekeeping operations on the 10th and 11th of July 2025. Chair investments in tools and weapons of war and weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear weapons, continues at a time when budgets for peacekeeping for civil development are falling here. This is a threat to international peace and security, this situation.

So let's invest, we say, in peace and development and not in war, and let's commit to a disarmament response race and not an arms race. My country also believes that UN mechanisms for disarmament require serious and responsible commitments as well as true political will on the part of all states, without exception. This also requires all parties to commit to implement the NPT and also the the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty and also implementation of these Nuclear Weapons Free Zones treaties. This is the only way of guaranteeing that weapons won't be used or there won't be a threat to use them. Also, we believe it is crucial to create a weapons of mass destruction nuclear weapons free zone in the Middle east as soon as possible.

We call on all states to engage in this process and to adopt a new idea of a shared future and security based on development and investment in peace and not in war. Chair My country reiterates that every state has the right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy, particularly in scientific, medical, industrial and environmental spheres in order to support sustainable development too. So therefore we call international organizations, particularly the iaea, to provide more support to states to develop natural national frameworks to increase their expertise on the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. My country would also reiterate the importance of international efforts in outer space and that should be limited to the peaceful use of outer space. It is necessary for efforts to continue so that outer space remains safe from an arms race and from an area free of conflict.

To conclude, we reiterate the right of the Palestinian peoples to recover their legitimate rights, mainly the right to self determination and their statehood and sovereign state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Thank you very much.


Chair [5:16]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Tunisia for his statement. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of of Ukraine. You have the floor.


Ukraine [5:29]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Ukraine aligns with the statement delivered by the European Union and wishes to add following remarks in national capacity. Ukraine welcomes the release of the last group of Israeli hostages held by the Hamas group for over two years. The release should be the first important step in reaching final agreements on the settlement of the Middle east conflict.

We reaffirm our support for international efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. Ukraine reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the npt, the cornerstone of the international disarmament and non proliferation architecture. We consider the CTBT as one of the key pillars of the global disarmament and non proliferation regime. We call upon the remaining Annex 2 states to to sign and ratify the CTBT without delay or preconditions and to maintain the existing taboo on nuclear testing. Ukraine reiterates its support for the early commencement and conclusion of negotiations on FMCT within the Conference on Disarmament.

Mr. Chair, the once reliable architecture of arms control continues to be deliberately dismantled. The collapse of the INF Treaty due to Russia's systematic incompliance, the suspension of its participation in the New START Treaty and its withdrawal of ratification of the CTBT are clear examples. The treaties and agreements that kept the world safe and secure for half a century have either vanished or are being undermined by those who once pledged to uphold them. We know this well from our own experience as a state that voluntarily renounced the world's third largest nuclear arsenal and acceded to the NPT as a non nuclear weapon state.

Ukraine did so in good faith, believing that its sovereignty and territorial integrity would be protected. Yet, as history has shown, the security assurances without enforcement are only words on paper. In 2014, the Russian Federation, a nuclear weapons state, launched its aggression against Ukraine, violating the most fundamental principles of international law and the UN Charter. In 2022, that state state escalated its war into a full scale invasion, threatening not only the existence of our country, but also global security and stability. Mr.

Chair, the situation around Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant remains greatly alarming. The continued presence of Russia's armed personnel and ammunition at the ZNPP and its escalating military activity near the plant pose a serious threat to nuclear safety. We are deeply concerned that the ZNPP has been without an external power supply for three weeks, already relying solely on unstable backup sources. Ukraine considers such actions as part of Russia's deliberate strategy to obstruct repair works and prevent the restoration of power transmission lines essential for ensuring a stable external electricity supply. Ukraine underscores the importance of taking taking decisive measures to minimize risks, maintain operational repair readiness and restore appropriate nuclear and radiation safety conditions at the ZNPP as soon as possible.

We call upon all states to increase pressure on Russia to ensure the immediate and complete withdrawal of its troops and other unauthorized personnel from the ZNPP site and the restoration of full control over the plant to Ukraine's legitimate operator. Mr. Chair, Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine is being sustained by Iran and the DPRK in direct violation of the UN Security Council resolutions and the fundamental norms of international law. Iran and the DPRK have unlawfully transferred drones, missiles and ammunition to Russia. Again this backdrop, Chinese companies continue to provide critical goods and equipment, further fueling Russia's ability to wage war.

We call on all UN Member States to unequivocally condemn the military cooperation between Russia and the DPRK and Iran. DPRK remains the only country in the 21st century to have conducted a nuclear test. Ukraine urges Pyongyang to fully comply with its obligations under multiple UN Security Council resolutions to refrain from testing nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, to return immediately to compliance with the NPT and the IAEA Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement, and to sign and ratify both the Additional Protocol thereto and the ctbt. We express our deep concern about Iran's violations of its commitments under the gcpoa. The accumulation of high enriched uranium without any civilian justification raises serious proliferation risks.

We call on Tehran to resume full cooperation with the IAEA to allow the agency's inspectors to regain access to all Iranian nuclear sites, as well as to engage constructively in diplomacy. Mr. Chair, Ukraine advocates strict adherence to the Chemical Weapons Convention, the Biological and Toxic weapons convention, the 1925 Geneva Protocol and the Security Council Resolution 1540. By contrast, Russia has been systematically using hazardous toxic chemicals, including riot control agents, as a method of warfare against Ukraine's servicemen. We we recall that the Organization of the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has issued three reports on the results of its technical assistance visits to Ukraine which contain irrefutable evidence of Russia's blatant violations of the cwc.

In this regard, Ukraine urges the OPCW to intensify its work on the establishment of an attribution mechanism as an important tool for ensuring international accountability for Russia's violations of the CWC. To conclude, Mr. Chair, we would like to stress that Ukraine's experience stands as a painful reminder that the erosion of disarmament and non proliferation norms endangers us all. Against this backdrop, we are convinced in the need for robust international cooperation aimed at building a security architecture based on binding guarantees, strong alliances and effective deterrence of aggression. Let us work towards that end.

Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [11:43]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Ukraine for her statement. And now I give the floor to His Excellency, the Deputy Permanent Representative of Norway. Excellency, you have the floor.


Norway · Deputy Permanent Representative [11:58]:

Thank you so much. Chair. When brute power rules, everyone loses. Multilateralism, a strong international legal framework and respect for international law are the foundation for international peace and security. A hundred years ago, our predecessors drew a line for humanity declaring chemical and biological weapons unacceptable, inhumane and beyond the bounds of of civilized warfare.

Since then, we have worked hard and diligently to multilaterally build a robust disarmament and non proliferation architecture. We are at a crossroads. Armed conflicts abound. Humanitarian crisis worsen. Military spending surges.

Our conventions are openly violated. Emerging technologies advance rapidly, adding complexity. We need to restore respect, confidence and collective ambition. In this architecture that we so carefully built. First Committee and the rest of the disarmament machinery have a key role to play.

Chair. Instability in the Middle east, the unprecedented humanitarian emergency in Sudan, the recent strife between the nuclear armed states of India and Pakistan, and the EPRK's continued pursuit of its nuclear and missiles programs in violations of UN Security Council resolutions are severe examples of a fraying international security on around continent of Europe defence spending is rising sharply as a direct result of Russia's actions. Russia's illegal war of aggression is not merely existential. For Ukraine, the massive scale of Russia's violations represent a fundamental global threat. Russia's brutal war against Ukraine is not just a flagrant and continuous violation of the UN Charter's fundamental prohibition on the use of force.

Russia is indeed attempting to annex parts of Ukraine, defying the ban on acquisition of territory by use of force. Russia violates the Budapest Memorandum security guarantees given to Ukraine in return for NPT accession. In doing so, Russia is even using nuclear threat in direct support of its war. Russia is attacking civilians and civilian infrastructure on a continuous basis, even deliberately jeopardizing nuclear safety and security at Ukraine's nuclear power plants. To advance its war aims, Russia has used chloropicrin as a chemical warfare agent, violating the Chemical Weapons Convention, a stark contrast to the Geneva Protocol's hundredth anniversary this year.

We condemn Russia's war of aggression in the strongest terms and we condemn the material contributions from Iran and the DPRK to Russia's war. We implore Russia to stop its war and withdraw from Ukraine and urge everyone to demand the same.

CHAIR we are heading into a new arms race among the great powers. Two drivers stand out in particular. China's hasty and opaque buildup of nuclear warheads, combined with Russia's reckless and aggressive behavior in the nuclear field, including threats, suspension of new start, de ratification of the CTBT and stationing of nuclear weapons in Belarus, all in the midst of its illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. It is in the interest of the very survival of humanity that nuclear weapons never be used again. Humanitarian and environmental consequences would be catastrophic.

A nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. Our common goal is the total elimination of all nuclear weapons. To achieve this, we must be ready to seize opportunities with strong tools at hand. Nuclear disarmament verification has offered a platform of confidence building and progress on a key part of future disarmament agreements. Building on the achievements of two successive GGEs and the widespread support expressed in the consultations following last year's resolution, Brazil and Norway will table a resolution to establish a group of scientific and technical experts on NDV within the un.

We hope for continued support and engagement from all of you. CHAIR those with the largest nuclear arsenals have a special responsibility. Traditionally this has been Russia and the US but now also China with their ongoing expansion. In less than four months, New Start will expire, leaving the world without any remaining nuclear arms limitations. AGREEMENTS we urge the parties to work in earnest to prepare for a successor treaty.

And we call on China to join arms control efforts with the US and Russia as a matter of urgency.

Chair. Upholding and reinforcing the NPT is paramount. The Review Conference demands our full attention. There are deep divides to be bridged. This requires meaningful progress across all three pillars.

We highlight the importance of increased transparency, accountability and substantive dialogue among the nuclear weapons states to reduce risks and pave the way for disarmament. We urge Iran to return to compliance with its commitment under the JCPOA and vis a vis the iaea and call on all parties to urgently pursue a diplomatic solution to its nuclear program. Chair It's 50 years since the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention entered into force. We are halfway to the next Review Conference. The ongoing Working Group is a rare chance to strengthen and institutionalize the Convention in all its aspects.

We must seize it. Two points to Closed Chair. While pursuing disarmament and non proliferation, we must protect the vital right to peaceful uses. Effective and transparent export controls combined with strong domestic control systems are key. By establishing confidence that sensitive goods and information are solely used for their intended peaceful purposes, we uphold our non proliferation obligations, facilitate cooperation on peaceful uses and bolster global security.

Finally, Chair, the humanitarian disarmament conventions have saved countless lives. They are key contributions to development and stability across the globe. Anti personnel mines and cluster munitions have unacceptable humanitarian consequences. We are concerned by the recent withdrawals. We urge all states, whether parties or non parties, to uphold the norms of these conventions.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [19:58]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Norway for his statement. And I now give the floor to His Excellency, the Permanent representative of Angola. Excellency, you have the floor.

Excellency, Permanent representative of Angola, you have the floor, if you are prepared.


Angola · Permanent Representative [20:28]:

Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you very much. Angola congratulates you and the member of the Bureau on your election. You have the trust and support of my delegation. Angola aligns itself with the statement delivered by Guinea Bissau on behalf of the Afghan group and by Uganda on behalf of non Allied Movements.

Mr. Chair, this committee has the vital role in advancing the international peace and security the agenda. As humanity continues to face multiple and complex threats, effective multilateralism is crucial to address disarmament, non proliferation and internal security in accordance with the principle of objective enshrined in the United Nations Charter. Therefore, multilateralism must be the only framework capable of genuinely guarantee the shared interests of all humanity. We reaffirm our commitment to multilateralism, diplomacy, inclusive dialogue and resolving conflict through peaceful means.

Angola advocates the principle of complete nuclear determinants as a precondition for maintaining international peace and security. Since the establishment of international instruments on nuclear determinants and non proliferation, little progress has been made to the present day. Instead, we have seen an exponential increase in nuclear weapons and programs, making the threat of their use increasingly imminent. Angola conceded that Africa's voice is essential to resolving significant global challenges and the fight against nuclear weapons is one of them. Experience show us that peace is a continuous process that entails responsibility, leadership and political will.

Therefore, the Republic of Angola reaffirmed its strong commitment to all international legal instruments on nuclear determinants, especially the Pelindaba Treaty, which designates Africa as a nuclear weapon free zone.

Achieving the goal of total elimination of nuclear weapons depends on the commitment of all nuclear weapons states to continually reduce and finally dismantle their nuclear weapons. We strongly believe that the nuclear determinants and total elimination of nuclear weapons remain the only guarantee against the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons. The Republic of Angola underscores the importance of the continued respect of the right of peaceful use of nuclear energy. In this sense, we stress the International Atomic Energy Agency must continue to play its role in promoting dialogue and consultation on nuclear safety, providing technical support and maximizing the use of science and technology for socio economic development. Production and stockpile of nuclear weapons may bring unbearable consequences for present and future generation.

This trend must be reversed.

However, the least trade of conventional arms and ammunition, their diversion to non state actors, their excessive accumulation and controlled dissemination in many regions of the world, especially in Africa, have profound destabilizing effects including fueling conflicts, violence, crimes and terrorism. We remain committed to implement the UN Program of action to prevent, combat and eradicate the least trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects, Mr. Chair Angoli said. Peace Making Peace Building a Peace Loving State at the core of its international policy lies the principle of peaceful settlement of disputes and the promotion of global peace and security. Armed conflict in Europe, Middle East, Africa and the rising tension in various parts of the world highlight the importance of strengthening multilateral cooperation mechanism.

More than ever, the current peace and security landscape requires everyone's attention and renewed political commitments in the collective efforts that prioritize the use of diplomacy and peaceful means on resolving conflicts. Angola underscored the need to ensure sustainable and current cooperation between the United nations, the African Union and regional economic communities to consolidate the peace and accelerate development across the continent. In this context, funding African Union led peace support operation is essential to strengthen the Joint United Nations Union and to strengthen United Nations African Union framework for enhanced Partnership in Peace and Security across Africa. Therefore, we hurt the prompt implementation of Security Council allusion 2719 to address the chain of peace and security issues in Africa. In this regard, we look forward to the consultation between the African Union Peace and Security Council and the United Nations Security Council taking place this week in Addis Ababa.

In the same vein, we continue to call for comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council. Africa must be adequately represented in both permanent and non permanent categories as stipulated in a Zelouin Consensus Declaration. Once achieved the this historic milestone will have a positive impact on effort to silence the Gans in Africa as outlined in the African Union Agenda 2063. The Africa We Want Mr. Chair.

Development Artificial intelligence represents a significant scientific advancement for the progress of humanity and its use must comply with the regulatory criteria of high ethical standards involving multilateral, responsible and democratic approach. We consider the use of artificial intelligence in the military sector that can be risk and significantly impact global peace and security. We advocate for an open and comprehensive debate on how to regulate it. On the other hand, the threat of militarization of outer space represent a setback in the progress made in the arms race and we consider it not only a threat to international peace and security, but also an acceptable development. Outer space should remain a shared domain for humanity and be used only for peaceful purposes.

In conclusion, Mr. Chair, we call on Member States to show political will and commitment to the transparency principle when addressing international disarmament and security issues. To this end, Angola stands ready to work with First Committee and all stakeholders to advance the global government and international security agenda. May the commitment of all Member states to a safer future for all be strengthened. This commitment is clearly reinforced by UNG80 motto Better Together 80 Years for Peace, Development and Human Rights.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [27:24]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Angola. His statement Y aura of resola palabra alla disa. I give the floor to the representative of Uruguay.

You have the floor.


Uruguay [27:41]:

Thank you very much, Vice Chair. We'd like to congratulate you as well as the members of the Bureau on your election. Expressing our best wishes for success and assuring you that you can count on the full support of our delegation. We particularly would like to greet the Rapporteur from our region. To begin, we would like to express our deep concern about the increase in international and regional tensions as well as the modernization of nuclear arsenals and the proliferation of new and destabilizing weapons, both strategic and conventional.

Uruguay, faithful as we are to our pacifist vocation and as a non nuclear weapons state, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to strengthening the disarmament and non proliferation regime pursuing the total elimination of nuclear weapons. We recognize that these weapons represent a permanent risk to the world's population and that their maintenance implies an economic waste that could be directed to address global challenges. We would also recall that their use and threat of use constitute crimes against humanity and serious violations of international law, International Humanitarian Law and the Charter of the United nations. Vice chair on 26 September, Uruguay participated in the commemoration of the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons and the Conference on the Entry into Force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. Reaffirming our commitment to nuclear disarmament.

We recall the devastating legacies of Hiroshima and Nagasaki as well as the effects of nuclear testing conducted in various parts of the world whose harmful impacts on health and the environment continue to affect communities, especially women and children. Uruguay underscores the importance of complying with international treaties such as the NPT and the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. The TPNW and we highlight the need for the CTBT to enter into force, which requires that the states listed in Annex 2 of the Treaty sign and or ratify it without delay. As co chairs of the TPNW Universalization Group, we emphasize that a significant majority of states have signed or ratified this multilateral instrument, thereby sending a strong signal of global commitment. We particularly celebrate the recent signature by Kyrgyzstan and the ratification by Ghana.

Uruguay promotes the establishment of nuclear weapons free zones and is proud of its membership in the Treaty of Tatelolco which established the first nuclear weapon free zone in a densely populated area. Reflecting our continued engagement with this treaty, we have decided to nominate Ambassador Juan Carlos Ojeda for the position of Secretary General of the Agency for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean. Opanal Recognizing the importance of the three fundamental pillars of the npt, namely nuclear disarmament, non proliferation and the peace of for use of nuclear energy. My country reaffirms its support for the efforts of the IAEA to strengthen this latter pillar in order to address global challenges related to energy, health, food and the environment. Vice Chair Uruguay maintains a firm commitment in the fight against the illicit trafficking, destabilizing, accumulation and misuse of conventional weapons, including small arms and light weapons, which in our region are a real threat to security and stability, particularly affecting civilian populations with a disproportionate impact on women, girls and boys as well as on communities in situations of greater vulnerability.

In this regard, we reaffirm that the arms trade Treaty is a fundamental instrument for international regulation for promoting responsible trade in conventional weapons, their parts, components and ammunition. We also deeply value the United Nations Program of Action as a key tool in the fight against illicit arms trafficking. Therefore, my country reaffirms its commitment to transparency in the military sphere, encouraging all States to report to the United Nations Register of Conventional Arms and to the standardized instrument for reporting military expenditures. We would also highlight the progress made at the preparatory meeting of the Global Framework for the Management of the Full Life Cycle of Conventional Ammunition. And we commit to continue working at the next meeting of States Parties to strengthen capacities and promote the exchange of experiences in this area.

Vice Chair the development and use of emerging technologies in the field of international security offers potential benefits, but also poses significant challenges. Autonomous weapons raise humanitarian, legal, security and ethical concerns. Without adequate control, these systems could increase the risk of escalation in conflicts and underlying accountability and responsibility in the use of force. As new technologies advance and are implemented in conflict scenarios, it is necessary to regulate these new means of warfare, ensuring their alignment with the provisions of international law and international humanitarian law. In this regard, Uruguay considers it is essential to guarantee meaningful human control over the critical functions of target selection and attack and supports progress towards a legally binding instrument that prohibits systems incompatible with international humanitarian law.

Ensuring responsibility and accountability Vice Chair the malicious use of information and communication technologies poses an urgent threat that requires greater cooperation between States. Given the inequities in access to the benefits Given the inequities in access to the benefits of technology, it's essential that capacity building efforts require respond to the needs of all States, especially developing countries, in order to reduce the digital and gender divides. We welcome the creation of the Global Mechanism on developments in ICTs and the promotion of responsible state behavior. And we especially value the Thematic Group dedicated to capacity building. The use of artificial intelligence must focus on enhancing human capabilities.

Ethics in its use is a fundamental aspect we must uphold. Although its implementation in the military sphere cannot be prevented, it is crucial that its use be fully aligned with international law and the UN Charter, always preserving human control and oversight in any action involving the use of force. Without adequate safeguards, AI can become a dangerous tool.

Vice Chair to conclude, we highlight the importance of the First Committee as an essential space for dialogue and cooperation among States. And we appreciate the efforts of the Bureau to improve the efficiency and functioning of meetings in this context of limited resources. Thank you very much.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [35:00]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Uruguay for her statement. Give the floor to His Excellency, the Permanent Representative of Myanmar. Excellency you have the floor.


Myanmar [35:13]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Mr. Chair, I wish to begin by congratulating you and other members of the Bureau on your well deserved election. You can count on our delegation's full support throughout this session. Myanmar alliance is set with the statements of ASEAN and nem lambu. Mr.

Chair, we are gathering once again in the midst of heightened geopolitical tensions, intensifying conflicts, deteriorating security architecture and growing mistrust in our multilateral institutions. Rapid advancement in technologies, including AI and integration of emerging technologies into weapon space systems are also adding another dimension to to the current security challenges we are facing. Against this backdrop, our collective work and deliberations at the First Committee are critical to maintaining international norms and preventing the further erosions of security safeguards in the area of disarmament. Moreover, more than 12,000 nuclear weapons remain and existential threat to humanity. A single use of nuclear weapons, whether by design or accident, will bring catastrophic humanitarian and environmental consequences for generations to come.

In this regard, we welcome the Secretary General's appointment of an independent scientific panel of experts on the effects of nuclear war and look forward to their report. Myanmar firmly believe that the only guarantee against the use or threat or use of nuclear weapons is their total elimination. Guided by this end goal, Myanmar will be tabling their resolution entitled Nuclear Disarmament at this session. Again, we request all Member States for their continued support of the resolution. Mr.

Chair, NPT remains the cornerstone of nuclear disarmament, non proliferation and peaceful use of nuclear energy. We must continue to strengthen our mutual understandings and exercise maximum flexibility towards a successful outcome at the 11th NPT Review Conference next year. After the consecutive failures at the last two Reviews Conference despite despite the growing number of ratification to the ctbt, its entry into force is still pending. We urge all Annex 2 states that have not yet ratified the Treaty to do so without further delay. We are of the view that TPNW complements NPT and contributes to advancing our shared goal of total elimination of nuclear weapons.

It is unfortunate that our subsequent plan to rectify the TPNW was delayed by the 2021 illegal military coup in Myanmar. As an ASEAN member, Myanmar attaches great importance to preserving our region as a nuclear weapon free zone through the full implementations of Bangkok Treaty. As a State party to CWC and bwc, Myanmar reaffirms our commitment to upholding international norms against the existence and use of chemical and biological weapons. Myanmar strongly condemns the use of any chemical weapons and calls for holding all perpetrators accountable. Mr.

Chair, conventional weapons may not exactly possess the same mass destructive capacity as nuclear weapons or other direct blue Andes. Yet majority of civilian casualties and destruction are attributed to conventional weapons, particularly when they are transferred or sold to bad actors dictators in fragile and conflict settings. The situation in Myanmar is glaring. Case in point, it is crystal clear that the military's atrocities and heinous crimes against the people of Myanmar have been enabled by the sales and transfers of Ms. Weapons, fighter jets and jewel use items from certain member states to the military junta.

Since the illegal coup, the military has resorted to exponentially increasing area attacks to compensate their major losses on the ground. According to ACLED, between January and May 2025, the junta conducted over 1,100 airstrikes, a dramatic increase from 640 in all of 2024. The OCHR reported that nearly half of all verifying civilian deaths between April 2024 and May 2025 were caused by the area attacks. Around 7,400 people have been killed by the military in over four years. There had been 452 documented massacres claiming the lives of 4763 civilians, including hundreds of children.

For protection of civilians for sake of humanity, any member states should not cooperate with the military junta in any shape or form. Mr. Chair, the military's method of warfare against civilians is not just limited to employing conventional weapons. Even recreational paragliders are readily exploited and leveraged as its tools to perpetuate civilian harm. For example, the military equipped a recreational paramotor with two explosives killing at least 20 civilians including children on a Buddhist religious day last week during a peaceful candlelight vigil protest against the military junta in Changhu Zhai region.

It was not an isolated incident given their proven records of misuse of jewelry use items. The military's so called claims over peaceful and civilian use of nuclear energy or outer space will always have an ulterior sinister motive behind. As such, I have consistently urged all member states to cease the sales and transfers of not only AMs and weapons, but also jet fuel, other dual use items and related technologies to the military junta in order to save lives and prevent suffering of the people of Myanmar. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, protection of civilians should precede profits.

Long term goals of peace and stability should precede short term goals of self interest. Genuine and inclusive political process should precede its self serving political exif. Needless to say that Plan Sham's camp elections of the military junta will only prolong violence and instability in the country and beyond. Once again I appeal to the international community to steadfastly reject the DC4 process and thank you, Mr. Chair.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [42:51]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Myanmar for his statement y aura of fresco la palabra. I now give the floor to Her Excellency the Deputy Representative of Permanent Representative of Spain, Madame de la Oz.


Spain · Deputy Permanent Representative · Madame de la Oz [43:07]:

Thank you very much. I'd like to begin Chair by congratulating the Bureau on your appointment and congratulate you as well, Chair on your wonderful Spanish.

We endorse what was said by the European Union. Now we have some national comments. Given an international political situation where we're seeing a multiplication of unresolvable conflicts threatening international peace and security. The work done by this First Committee and the whole disarmament machinery is vital and is even more necessary than ever before. The new agenda for peace of the Secretary General and the Pact for the Future behoove us to redouble our efforts to rebuild a mutual level of trust that will enable us to maintain and reinforce the international architecture for the control of armaments, non proliferation and disarmament.

As part of UN80 Spain will work to rationalize the machinery of disarmament and make it more agile. Chair the unjustified aggression of Russia against Ukraine continues to be a frontal attack against the principles of the United Nations Charter. Spain condemns in the most robust terms this military aggression. And we reiterate our support for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine in close coordination with our partners and allies in Gaza. We welcome the entry into force of the ceasefire and we welcome the release of the hostages after two years in captivity in intolerable conditions held by the terrorist group Hamas.

And we call upon the parties to fully implement the agreement as is included in the New York Declaration. Progress must be made in defining and bringing about irreversible and tangible measures in the humanitarian rebuilding and governance fees fields. Also, with regard to stabilization and security. The peace plan signed in Sharm El sheikh last Monday, 13th of October, is a step forward. We reiterate our support for efforts to bring about lasting peace in the Middle east on the basis of the implementation of the two state solution.

The stockpiling of armaments associated with both conflicts as well as others is being seen in various parts of the world at the moment. And this has a real and direct impact on peace and it causes impossible suffering and unjust suffering for the civilian population. Spain is committed to all efforts that will make it possible to strengthen regional security in the Middle East. We must step up diplomatic efforts so that the nuclear file for Iran is resolved in a negotiated and peaceful way. And we ask for Iran to resume its commitments to non Proliferation and working together with the iaea, we fully trust its independent and impartial work.

We're following with great concern events in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, and we call upon its authorities to respect Security Council resolutions, abstain from new missile tests and opt instead for a dialogue that will lead to the complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. Chair there's soon going to be a new NPT conference and we must renew our political commitment to significant progress. This was our commitment 55 years ago. Spain, an active member of the Stockholm Initiative, seeks consensus on various viewpoints with regard to nuclear disarmament and we identify concrete steps in this regard. We support the strengthening of the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention and we welcome the growing interest to put in place verification measures for this Convention.

AI is calling upon us to act also in the military domain. We are following very carefully all steps, particularly in the military domain. And our country will be hosting the next re AIM Conference. And we'd like to indicate that the Secretary General's report on AI in the military domain is a very useful instrument to make progress in our understanding of this issue and how it should be dealt with internationally. We view very positively the progress made by the Group of Intergovernmental Experts on lethal Autonomous weapons.

And we continue to make a constructive contribution to the work of this Group. Chair. Spain is very much committed to responsible multilateralism and we would highlight that multilingualism contributes to the successful outcome of UN work and it should not be undermined in any way. Gender equality, including in disarmament and non proliferation, is also a distinctive aspect of our feminist foreign policy. We support and continue to work on initiatives such as the creation of gender advisers under the Convention, the inclusion of specific items as agenda items in meetings and also disaggregated data that takes into account the use, the effects of the use of weapons on women and children, sustainable development.

This is inseparable from the peace and security agenda. It helps to strengthen the disarmament and non proliferation architecture. No one can question this. And finally, Spain defends increasing participation of civil society, particularly young people, in all disarmament and non proliferation. Fora.

Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [48:37]:

I thank the distinguished Deputy Permanent Representative of Spain for her statement and also for the kind words that you addressed to the work of the Bureau of the First Committee. And I now give the floor to. To.

The Permanent Representative of Argentina. You have the floor.


Argentina · Permanent Representative [49:01]:

Good afternoon. Thank you very much. Chair, Allow me to begin by congratulating you on your Spanish and on your election and the election of members of the Bureau to manage the work of the Committee, you can count on the support support of my delegation. The international security landscape is characterized by increasing complexity and unprecedented challenges. The development of new types of nuclear weapons and strategic delivery systems heightens instability and raises the risk of miscalculation with very serious consequences.

At the same time, the impact of emerging technologies such as vulnerabilities in cybersecurity and growing tensions in outer space demand a collective and coordinated effort from the international community to effectively confront these challenges.

Chair Argentina's long standing commitment to international security, disarmament, non proliferation and arms control has been reflected in the numerous responsibilities that we have undertaken in the past year. In this context, Argentina assumed last August the Chairmanship of the 11th Conference of States Parties to the Arms Trade Treaty. The universalization of the Treaty and the effective implementation of its provisions, a priority theme selected by our Presidency, constitutes an essential instrument to ensure a responsible and transparent arms trade and a tangible contribution to international peace and stability. To this end, the Argentine Presidency promoted innovative initiatives aimed at expanding the reach of the Treaty, including the dissemination of its content among parliamentarians as well as amongst youth and society at large. Furthermore, Argentina chaired the initial sessions of the Open Ended Working Group on the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space in all its aspects, within which a comprehensive program of work was agreed upon, with particular emphasis on defining possible measures both legally binding as well as non legally binding finding in order to address emerging threats in a domain that is crucial for life and the global economy, namely outer space.

Similarly, Argentina coordinated the deliberations of the Subsidiary Body of Conference of Paros, contributing to the revitalization of an essential multilateral forum for security discussions. Next November, my country will assume the Presidency of the Meeting of States parties to Protocol 2 of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, which concerns the prohibition or restriction of the use of mines, booby traps and other devices. This forum is of special relevance in the current context of intensified armed conflicts and the growing use of of such weapons. In this regard, my country reaffirms its commitment to the limitation and eradication of weapons with indiscriminate effects. I would also like to highlight that Argentina had the honor of chairing the Group of Governmental Experts on the functioning of the United Nations Register of Conventional Arms, which produced a valuable report with recommendations aimed at strengthening the Register's effectiveness and transparency.

Mr. Chair, Argentina has more than 70 years of experience in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, being both a producer as well as an exporter. Of this kind of technology. My country is currently developing a prototype small modular reactor in full conformity with the Treaty on Non Proliferation, the cornerstone of the disarmament, non proliferation and peaceful uses regime of nuclear energy.

In this regard, allow me to highlight the fundamental role of the International Atomic Energy Agency and its Director General, Raffaele Mariano Grossi, whose good offices and diplomatic schools have been essential for the Agency to provide certainty and reassurance in pressing context. In particular, we value the efforts undertaken to ensure the continuity of verification and monitoring in Ukraine, as well as the initiatives to resume inspections in Iran in accordance with existing safeguard agreements.

The IAEA's work is an irreplaceable pillar for transparency, mutual trust and the preservation of of the international disarmament and non proliferation regimes.

We would also like to commend the IAEA's work in promoting the peaceful uses of nuclear energy through its technical cooperation program and related initiatives which enable countries to benefit from nuclear technology and its applications in fields such as health, agriculture, water management, amongst others. Finally, we would like to reaffirm our support for the process leading up to the 11th review conference of the NPT. And we thank the President designate, Ambassador Do Hung Viet of Vietnam for assuming this important challenge. He can of course count on Argentina's support to achieve a successful outcome. And we look forward to overcoming the impasse of the last two Review Conferences and to deliver common concrete results in disarmament and non proliferation goals that are now more urgent than ever.

Thank you very much.


Chair [55:07]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Argentina. Give the floor to Her Excellency, the Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva of New Zealand. Excellency, you have the floor.


New Zealand · Permanent Representative (UNOG) [55:26]:

Thank you. Chair. Congratulations on your appointment. You have New Zealand's full support. Let me begin by welcoming the announcement and implementation of a first phase of a peace plan between Israel and Hamas.

New Zealand hopes that this provides a platform for a lasting solution where future generations of Israelis and Palestinians live in peace and security. Despite this cheer, New Zealand is deeply concerned by the deteriorating global security environment. As we meet today, numerous protracted conflicts are being waged devastating communities, lives and livelihoods around the world. We are witnessing retreats from essential peace and security norms and of rules that were painstakingly built after the end of the Second World War. In uncertain times such as these, we must redouble our efforts to uphold those rules.

Chair. Through the Pact for the Future, states have recommitted to achieving a world without nuclear weapons and to strengthen the disarmament and non proliferation architecture that will translate this ambition into reality. All states that possess or rely on nuclear weapons for their security need to take tangible steps towards disarmament nuclear weapons States must fulfil their NPT Article 6 obligation and related commitments. Threats to use nuclear weapons are never acceptable and collectively we must resist their normalization. Such threats, whether overt or implied, just underline the urgency of reducing the salience of nuclear weapons with a view to their total elimination.

Eighty years after the devastating atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, eliminating nuclear weapons is the only guarantee against the catastrophic consequences of their use. We working towards total elimination demands practical actions to reduce nuclear weapon risk and for disarmament negotiations. To recommence the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons is one practical step. Some of the international community has already taken to stake out a clear position against nuclear weapons. New Zealand urges all states to join the TPNW as the clearest possible rejection of nuclear weapons.

Chair New Zealand remains deeply concerned by the serious and ongoing challenges facing the global non proliferation regime. We continue to regret Iran's persistent failure to resolve outstanding safeguards issues and to comply with its legal obligations under the Treaty on the Non Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. We urge Iran to return to full compliance and to re engage constructively with the IAEA. We remain deeply concerned by the DPRK's continued advancement of its nuclear and ballistic missile programs which pose a clear and grave threat to regional and international peace and security. New Zealand will continue to support efforts towards complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation of the dprk.

We reaffirm our strong support for the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. Its long overdue entry into force is a key step in achieving a nuclear weapon free world. We call on all states that have not yet done so, particularly the Annex 2 states, to sign and ratify the CTBT without delay and without conditions. Chair New Zealand welcomes the steps taken by the Syrian Interim authorities to re engage with the opcw. We now have an opportunity to eliminate chemical weapons and Syria once and for all.

However, we are alarmed by the mounting evidence of the Russian Federation's repeated and systematic use of riot control agents and other toxic chemicals as weapons in its ongoing illegal war of regression against Ukraine in clear violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention. Russia has binding obligations under the Convention. The use of chemical weapons by anyone, anywhere is abhorrent and cannot be normalized. There can be no impunity. Chair 2025 has seen developments that pose challenges to the conventional weapons regimes and risk undoing the progress we have made Progress which has saved countless lives around the world and prevented unnecessary suffering.

First, civilian casualties at the hands of indiscriminate weapons are increasing, including due to the indiscriminate use of explosive weapons in populated areas areas. Second, the funding available globally for responding to the harms caused by conventional weapons is under pressure. And third, we are seeing withdrawals from treaties prohibiting cluster munitions and anti personnel mines. The Anti Personnel Mine Ban Convention, the Convention on Cluster Munitions, the Arms Trade Treaty and the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons were adopted to reduce human suffering and protect civilians both in peacetime and during conflict. New Zealand calls on all states to uphold and strengthen the protection of civilians and to take meaningful steps to reduce the burden of armed conflict on communities.

Chair we commend multilateral efforts to better understand the risks and benefits of emerging technologies and to respond appropriately. New Zealand continues to call for urgent action on autonomous weapon systems and congratulates Austria for convening a cross region regional group of countries to drive further progress. We also commend the Netherlands and the Republic of Korea for their leadership of international discussions on artificial intelligence in the military domain. Space based systems deliver a wide range of services that underpin our daily lives and are integral to global security. Their peaceful, safe, secure and sustainable use depends on a strong and effective rules based international system.

SYSTEM As a space faring nation, New Zealand remains committed to promoting responsible behaviour in outer space. We support efforts to develop norms, rules and principles that address emerging threats, including through approaches that consider both behaviours and capabilities. We urge all states to commit to preventing the weaponisation of space and to uphold their international obligations, including under Article 4 of the Outer Space Treaty. Chair Cyber threats undermine international security. This includes the deployment of ransomware, targeting of critical infrastructure and malicious cyber activity that is now increasingly occurring in the context of armed conflict.

New Zealand is committed to the normative framework of responsible state behaviour online. We recently updated our national statement emphasising that international law, including international humanitarian law, applies in cyberspace. We look forward to the new global mechanism supporting all states to build a common understanding of these rules and norms and advancing responsible state behaviour in the use of information and communication technologies. Chair New Zealand reaffirms our commitment to upholding international humanitarian law, defending the international rules based system and working constructively towards disabilities, disarmament and international security. Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [1:02:29]:

I thank the distinguished representative of New Zealand for her statement.

And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Paraguay. You have the floor.


Paraguay [1:02:47]:

Mucha gracias. Thank you very much, Vice Chair, for giving me the Chair for giving Me the floor in Spanish and congratulations to you and the Bureau. Today we celebrate the holding of the Summit for Peace which is taking place as part of the plan led by the government of the United States. We value the efforts of Egypt, Qatar and Jordan in facilitating the implementation of this plan, which has received the support of both parties to the conflict. As we have always maintained, the solution to the situation in Gaza lies in dialogue and ensuring that all key stakeholders are present at the negotiating table.

Vice Chair Paraguay joins its voice to that of the overwhelming majority of countries that desire peace, an end to hostilities, respect for international law and the prevalence of dialogue, diplomacy and negotiation. We are convinced that these are the best tools to achieve peace in the many conflicts that persist around the world. It is worrying that military spending continues to increase when there are so many pressing needs in a world also plunged into serious humanitarian crises, which above all affects vulnerable parts of our societies, particularly women and girls and boys. As has been expressed during the High Level Week, we share the view that it is necessary for the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty to enter into force. Therefore, we urge the Annex 2 states of that treaty to proceed with its prompt ratification so that it may fully enter into effect.

We are convinced that the NPT is the cornerstone of the disarmament regime and that it is strengthened and complemented within the international disarmament architecture by the CTBT as well as the TPNW. Chair. Transnational organized crime in all its manifestations continues to put pose a threat to regional stability and global security. The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons and their ammunition must not be viewed in isolation from this equation. This scourge, which does not discriminate whether things are illicit to trade or diversion to non state actors, occurs in conflict zones or for criminal purposes and causes destabilization and has a particularly worrying impact on women, girls and boys.

It also serves as a fertile ground for other forms of transnational organized crime. Vice Chair across the Board, we believe that the security of information and communication technologies and their use, the exclusively peaceful use of cyberspace, the security of critical Internet infrastructure and emerging technologies must remain secure. Central issues within our organization, particularly in this committee. To conclude, we reaffirm Paraguay's commitment and as chair of the Disarmament Commission and member of the Bureau of the Working Group on Ammunition, amongst other roles, Paraguay has consistently maintained a pacifist stance that seeks the development of all countries and their peoples. We also highlight the success of Alcono 3 on P missions and Rela Capass II held in our capital city under Paraguay's presidency, as well as the adoption of The Asuncion Declaration.

2025. Strengthening peace. Yet another demonstration of our country's contribution to peace in all regions of the world. Thank you very much, Vice Chair.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [1:06:11]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Paraguay.

To give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kiribati. You have the floor, sir.


Kiribati [1:06:22]:

Thank you, Chair. Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, Governor Maury. And best greetings to you this afternoon. At the outset, KBS wishes to extend its warmest congratulations to you, Mr.

Chair. On your election as Chair of the First Committee of this 80th 80th Session, including members of the Pro. Mr. Chair. As we mark the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United nations.

We are reminded of the enduring vision of this institution. A peaceful world free from the threat of nuclear weapons. Kidipus strongly believes in the aspirations and cause of this august body. It is worth recalling that the very first resolution adopted by the General assembly called for the elimination of atomic weapons. Kiribati remains steadfast in its conviction that the pursuit of a world free of nuclear weapons must be grounded in our shared commitment to peace and security.

It is therefore fitting that the work of this first Committee continues to center on the international peace and security. Mr. Chair, Kitibis is proud to have contributed in our own modest way to advancing global peace and security. In particular, we have been an active support of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. Especially in the implementation of Articles 6 and 7, efforts which we jointly coordinate with Kazakhstan.

Kiripas also serves as a member of the TPNW Coordination Committee. And looks forward to the establishment of International Trust Fund to assist victims of nuclear weapons. We fully recognize that the TPNW complements the Nuclear Non Proliferation Treaty. And we call upon all states that have not yet done so to sign and ratify the tpnw. We also look ahead to the forthcoming NPT Review Conference.

Where Kitibas will continue to advocate for recognition and support for victims of nuclear weapons use, testing and protection. Before that conference, the international community will convene the first ever meeting on Victim Assistance Environmental Remediation, which Kitibus views as a vital step towards justice and healing for affected communities. Mr. Chair, as we actively engage in nuclear disarmament discussions, Kiribati is also closely following developments concerning the changes posed by artificial intelligence in the command and control systems of nuclear weapon states. Turning to lethal autonomous weapons systems, Kiribati was pleased to participate in the informal consultations held in New York during The summer of this year, we warmly welcome this initiative by Austria and commence its leadership in facilitating opportunities for Telecasians to exchange perspectives on this pressing issue.

Mr. Chair Kitibes believes that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but also vital contributors. Today. The international community must continue to strengthen support for the United nations initiatives such as the Youth Leaders Fund for World Free of Nuclear Weapons and the Youth for Disarmament Forum. In line with the Pact for the Future and security council resolution 2250.

We also wish to emphasize the importance of of uplifting the voices of young women. Greater efforts are needed to ensure they are giving meaningful spaces to participate, particularly in disarmament affairs. KDP is proud that Ms. Oema Johnson, a fourth generation survivor, addressed the General Assembly's high level meeting for the International Day Against Nuclear Tests and has been selected to participate in the OTAS Youth for Disarmament Forum. Together we must continue to empower and amplify the voices of youth as essential partners in advancing disarmament and sustaining lasting peace. Thank you, Mr.

Chair.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [1:10:59]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Kiribati for his statement and I now give the floor to distinguished representative of Vietnam. You have the floor.


Viet Nam [1:11:11]:

Mr. Chair. Vietnam congratulates you on your election as Chair of the First Committee and assures you of our full support and cooperation. Throughout this session of the First Committee, we align ourselves with the statements delivered by Indonesia for the Non Aligned Movement and by Malaysia for asean. The world is witnessing growing mistrust and insecurity, an alarming erosion of commitments to international law and an unprecedented but under comprehended expansion of new technological applications.

At such a time, the United nations and the multilateral system are again being tested in their ability to respond to both long standing and emerging challenges. Amid severe budgetary constraints and an increasingly complex agenda, including here at the First Committee, it is imperative for all Member States to demonstrate a renewed sense of cooperation and responsibility to to sustain collaboration. Within this Committee and across the broader disarmament and arms control architecture, Vietnam reaffirms its commitment to international law, the UN Charter and the goal of general and complete disarmament of all weapons of mass destruction. As party to all key multilateral instruments in this area, we stress the importance of their full and effective implementation and the need for strengthened international cooperation and capacity building, particularly for developing countries. To ensure that science and technology serve peace, stability and sustainable development.

Strengthening the nuclear, disarmament and non proliferation regime remains a top priority. Actions under all three pillars of the NPT must be implemented in a balanced manner toward the shared goal of a world free of nuclear weapons. We look forward to engaging with all state parties in our capacity as President for for a successful Review conference in 2026. Vietnam calls on these states that have not done so to sign and ratify the CTBT without delay. We underscore the historic significance of the TPNW and its contribution to the global disarmament regime.

The establishment of Nuclear Weapon free zones represent a vital regional contribution to global disarmament. In that regard, Vietnam urges the Nuclear Weapon States to sign and ratify the Protocol to the Sean Fest Treaty Treaty without reservation. Together with ASEAN countries, we will co sponsor the biannual resolution of Chantez at this session and invite the support of all member states. Mr. Chair the illicit use, trade and manufacture of conventional weapons continue to inflict daily sufferings to civilians, especially in conflict related situations.

The full implementation of the Program of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons and the International Tracing Instrument is essential to curb illicit arms flow. Implementation of relevant instruments should respect international law, the UN Charter and the legitimate rights of States to self defense. Having experienced decades of conflict, Vietnam deeply understands the long lasting impact of explosive remnants of war which continue to threaten civilians long after hostilities end. We call for increased international attention, financial and technical support and humanitarian assistance to ensure effective mine clearance and aid for affected communities. Chair Emerging technology, including artificial intelligence, pose both opportunities and risks for peace and security.

They are transforming conflicts and armaments, posing new challenges for disarmament and arms control. Vietnam calls for stronger multilateral cooperation to address their potential risk, particularly those with strong strategic implication. We support efforts to promote the peaceful uses of science and technology in line with international law and the UN Charter. In this vein, Vietnam commands Singapore's stewardship of the open ended Working Group on ict, the adoption of its final report and the agreement to establish a new global mechanism for a safe, secure, open and interoperable cyberspace. We also note progress in the OEWG on prevention of an arms raised in outer space.

Towards more substantive discussion, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving outer space as a domain of peace, including through the development of legally binding frameworks. Finally, Vietnam remains concerned about the continued rise in global military expenditures and the decline in resources for development. Both are alarming trends. We call for sustained funding to strengthen strengthen the disarmament machinery, greater investment in education and the meaningful participation of women and youth in disarmament efforts. We support initiatives to enhance efficiency and use of resources while underscoring the need to ensure full implementation of adopted mandates.

The First Committee should continue to improve its Working methods, streamline its agenda and avoid unnecessary duplications to to promote coherence across all disarmament processes. Mr. Chair, in closing, Vietnam stands ready to engage constructively in the work of this year first Committee and to support all efforts in our common pursuit of a world of peace, stability and development. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [1:16:18]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Vietnam.

And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bangladesh. You have the floor.


Bangladesh [1:16:27]:

Mr. Chairman, I warmly congratulate you and members of the borough on your election. Bangladesh aligns itself with the statement delivered by Uganda on behalf of the nam. In addition, I would like to reiterate the following points in our national capacity.

Mr. Chair, 80 years after the adoption of Charter with a vision to create a world free of nuclear weapons, we are seeing escalation of conflicts in all corners of the world. Tensions among nuclear armed states are reaching new heights. In the scenario of continued arms race, increasing military spending and weakening arms control architecture, our aspiration for disarmament remains a far cry. Mr.

Chair, for Bangladesh, disarmament is a matter of immediate security and survival. Since we live in the shadows of several nations neighbors, we believe that nuclear weapons do not provide security to any nation, rather endanger security of all. That is why we remain at the forefront in assuming higher obligations under all major multilateral disarmament treaties. This unwavering commitment to disarmament is an integral part of our foreign policy. Bangladesh was one of the first states state parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.

We welcome the Treaty's entry into force and commend the successful covering of its third meeting of state parties in May this year. Mr. Chair, Bangladesh considers NPT as the foundation of the global nuclear non proliferation regime. We firmly believe that any use or threat of use of nuclear weapons is a breach of international law. The only absolute guarantee against such use is their complete elimination.

Pending the achievement of that goal, the world must expand nuclear weapon free zones including in the Middle east and South Asia and provide credible and unconditional security assurances to all non nuclear weapons states. Bangladesh emphasizes the importance of the non discretionary discriminatory implementation of Article 4 of the NPT which upholds the inalienable right of all states to develop nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. For us, nuclear technology contributes to clean energy, food security and health care. In our national context. We remain committed to further deepening our existing cooperation with the IAEA to enhance our technical capacity.

Mr. Chair, Bangladesh firmly believes that there is no alternative to a comprehensive and universal ban on nuclear testing. As one of the most densely populated countries. We remain concerned about the catastrophic consequences of any possible nuclear test in the region in the form of radiation exposure, environmental degradation and health hazard in their gravest forms. From this belief, we ratified the Comprehensive Test ban treaty in 2000 as the first South Asian country to do so.

We strongly call upon the remaining Annex 2 states to demonstrate leadership and join the global consensus without further delay. Mr. Chair, Bangladesh reiterates its unwavering support to the Chemical Weapons Convention and the Biological Weapons Convention and underscores that there can be no impunity for the use of such weapons. Bangladesh shares global concerns that the illicit transfer, accumulation and misuse of space, small arms and light weapons pose serious threat to international peace and security. Mr.

Chair, Bangladesh emphasizes the inalienable right of all member states to explore and use of outer space exclusively for peaceful purposes. We believe that states, regardless of their level of capacity in space science, research and technology, ought to be able to contribute in shaping the future governance of outer space. Mr. Chair, we live in an age when AI is gradually making inroads in all aspects of life. We remain deeply concerned at the development of military applications using artificial intelligence.

Our foremost responsibility is to harness AI for peace, not conflict. Therefore, we emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive frameworks to govern AI effectively in accordance with international law, ethical standards and human rights principles. Mr. Chair, in this era of increasing global conflicts, the military expenditure continues to increase. The current liquidity crisis has put the development program in a complete disarray.

We firmly believe that only through multilateralism we can achieve the general and complete disarmament and refocus our attention to attaining the development goals. We call upon all states to remain united in strengthening our collective efforts toward the shared goal of a peaceful, secure and nuclear weapons free world. I thank you all.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [1:21:42]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Bangladesh for her statement. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of.

Oh, sorry, Her Excellency, Permanent Representative to the Conference on Disarmament of Japan. Excellency, you have the floor.


Japan · Permanent Representative (CD) [1:22:00]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I'd like to start by congratulating Ambassador Maurizio Massari on his assumption as Chairperson of this session of the First Committee.

I assure Ambassador Massari, you, Mr. Chair, and the Bureau of my delegation's full support and cooperation. Mr. Chair, the severe international security situation and deepening divisions within the international community are making the path towards a world without nuclear weapons even more challenging. Russia's aggression against Ukraine continues to pose a blatant challenge to the international order based on the rule of law, the rapid expansion of nuclear arsenals, including that of China, for which there is a lack of sufficient transparency, could spark a new arms race, and such risk is now higher than at any time since the height of the Cold War.

Japan is seriously concerned about the advancement of the DPRK's nuclear and missile activities and its military cooperation with Russia. It is essential for the international community to be united and fully implement the relevant UN Security Council resolutions to achieve the complete, verifiable and irreversible dismantlement of the DPRK's all weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missiles of all ranges. Japan urges Pyongyang to abide by all the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and fully comply with the NPT and IAEA safeguards. We mark the 80th year since the atomic bombings on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The tragedy of Hiroshima and Nagasaki must never be repeated.

With the NPT Review Conference coming up next year, we call on the international community to embrace the spirit of dialogue and cooperation. For its success, Japan will submit a draft resolution titled Steps towards Building a Common Roadmap towards a World Without Nuclear Weapons to present a common approach on nuclear disarmament again this year. We hope it will garner the widest possible support from member states. Mr. Chairman, Japan has been a staunch supporter of the Anti Personnel Mine Bank Convention, APMBC and its core objective, and it is a great honor for me to hold the presidency of its 22nd meeting of state Parties. In this capacity, Japan, together with Cambodia and Zambia will submit a draft resolution on implementation of the APMBC and calls for the widest support to it.

I would also like to call for strong support and cooperation of the APNBC States Parties for the success of the 22nd Meeting of States Parties in December. Urgent action is needed to address the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons. Together with Colombia and South Africa, Japan will once again submit a draft resolution on the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects and strongly hopes to adopt this resolution by consensus again this year. To demonstrate our collective commitment, any use of biological or chemical weapons is unacceptable under any circumstances. In this slide, Japan supports the activities of the Working Group on Strengthening the BCWC and the OPCW's efforts in addressing concerns over the use of chemical weapons in recent years.

Mr. Chair, we are also facing a pressing need to address a number of challenges deriving from the development of new technologies and new domains. Japan considered that the military use of emerging technologies should be examined comprehensively, taking into account both humanitarian considerations and security perspectives. In this regard, Japan appreciates the substantive progress made in the GGE laws under the CCW and will spare no effort for the fulfillment of its mandate. Japan strongly supports the continuation of international considerations of this important issue under the framework of the CCW in accordance with the mandate of the GGE to formulate a set of elements of an instrument without prejudging its nature and other possible measures, we intend to participate constructively and actively in the GGE laws discussions.

Japan is firmly committed to ensuring a free, fair and secure cyberspace. Japan welcomes the adoption of the final report of the UN OEWG on Cybersecurity by consensus and looks forward to the General Assembly's endorsement. Japan will spare no effort in cooperating with other Member States to further discuss action oriented and cross cutting cyber issues in the future global mechanism. Last but not least, Japan strongly supports the continuation of discussions on reducing space threats through norms, rules and principles of responsible behavior. This is aimed at seeking common ground among Member States in disarmament fora to channel international efforts towards an effective and truly meaningful instrument to prevent an arms race in outer space.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [1:28:14]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Japan for her statement. Arigato. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative, Her Excellency, the Deputy Permanent Representative of Cote d'.

Ivoire. Excellency, you have the floor.


Côte d’Ivoire · Deputy Permanent Representative [1:28:34]:

Thank you, Chair. First of all, allow me to warmly congratulate you and your bureau on your election to lead the First Committee. My delegation would like to assure you that you have our full support and we're very ready to involve ourselves in discussion. Discussions. I'd also like to commend Her Excellency Madame Maritza Chan Valverde, Permanent Representative of Costa Rica and thank her for the excellent way in which she led the previous session.

Cote d' Ivoire aligns itself with a statement made by the Non line movement and that by the African group too and would like to make the following observations in our national capacity. Chair. When faced with the growing likelihood of the use of nuclear weapons fueled by a new arms race and increased monisation of nuclear arsenals, we need to make inroads towards a world full of free from these weapons through their complete elimination. It is crucial in this connection to strengthen the authority, effectiveness and complementarity of the NPT and of the ctbet. These are two crucial instruments in the multilateral disarmament and non proliferation system.

The upcoming review conferences of these two treaties which are planned to be held in 2026 are key dates to ensure that tangible progress has been made by then. Towards this result we Call therefore for all Member States to commit to engage in constructive discussions to lead to concrete recommendations. Moreover, Cote d' Ivoire believes that the Test Nuclear Test Ban Treaty to be crucial to vertical and horizontal non proliferation which could help us to meet the goal a world free from nuclear weapons. Therefore, Cote d' Ivoire has always joined international advocacy to ensure that this treaty is universalised and to support its entry into force, which is something we seem to be urgent. In the meantime, my country reiterates its appeal for a moratorium on nuclear tests.

In addition, the extension of regional denuclearization work could contribute to accelerating our progress towards the goal of a complete eradication of nuclear weapons. That's why, like for example, in the Nuclear Weapons Free Zone in Africa created by the Palindaba Treaty, visa is an area that we could be promoted and strengthened. Chair the proliferation of conventional weapons and their ammunition prolongs and worsens conflicts, fuels armed violence and are factors for regional global destabilization. This is exacerbated by their link to terrorism and transitional organized crime.

How do we tackle this phenomenon then? Well, we need to regulate these weapons and control their supply. This is indeed the goal of instruments such as the Arms Trade Treaty, the Additional Protocol to the Convention on Transnational Organised Crime and also the Program of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons. The measures contained in these different tools should be rigorously applied, particularly those that were agreed upon following the fourth Review Conference of the UN Program of Action to Prevent combat and limit the illicit trade in Small Arms and light Weapons on Classic Ammunition welcomes a successful holding in June of the preparatory meeting for the first meeting of States on the Global Framework for through Life Conventional Ammunition management, which was something adopted in 2023. Moreover, my country would like to reiterate its commitment to the Certain Conventional Weapons Convention as well as appeal for regulation of lethal autonomous weapon system and for their responsible use.

Cote d' Ivoire is also in favour of regional issues initiatives on this question, much like organizing regional conferences which include that in April 2024 in West Africa this was crowned with the Freetown Communique which underscored the need to strengthen existing governance mechanisms and to draft new rule binding rules to regulate these weapons. CHAIR PREVENTING AN ARMED SPACE in OUTER RACE an arms race in outer space and the militarization of outer space is a pressing issue. In the context of current tensions and greed that we're seeing, it is essential that these processes give us space to ensure that the use of this space for peaceful effort is only for peaceful purposes and to stop it being transformed into a new area for military clashes regarding cyberspace. My delegation welcomes the successful conclusion of the work of the open ended Working Group on ICT security as well as the consensus that was reached on the implementation of the creation in 2026 of a state permanent mechanism for institutional dialogue. The aim is to continue the work to consolidate the work that's already been done to create a reliable, stable and peaceful Internet.

Also, the Cote d' Ivoire calls for the good functioning of disarmament mechanisms so that they can fulfill their essential missions which are maintaining international peace and security. To conclude, Cote d' Ivoire reiterates its faith in productive discussions during this session so that we can make real progress towards the crucial goals of stability and peace. Thank you very much for your attention.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [1:33:58]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Cote d' Ivoire for her statement. Merci.

And I now give the floor to His Excellency, Deputy Ambassador of Panama. You have the floor. Thank you very much. Chair. Panama would like to congratulate His Excellency Maurizio Massari on the election as Chair and also the Bureau to lead our work during the 80th session.


Panama · Deputy Ambassador [1:34:29]:

You may count on Panama's full support in the pursuit of consensus. Panama has full confidence in your leadership and ability to achieve significant progress during this session. Panama is concerned about the increase in global military spending which creates uncertainty and instability in all regions. These resources should instead be directed toward promoting peace for populations facing vulnerability and risk. Panama also joins in the calls being made to remain prepared for the current challenges in the field of disarmament and international security.

In a context of increasing geopolitical tensions, when we must promote the treaties to which we are parties. Panama would like to take this opportunity to call for continued work on the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, the Arms Trade Treaty and the Treaty on the Non Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. We recognize that the NPT is the cornerstone of the nuclear disarmament non proliferation regime and we emphasize the importance of achieving its universalization and implementing its three disarmament, non proliferation and the right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy. That's why we must participate with responsibility and commitment in the upcoming Review Conference in 2026. We also congratulate the States Parties that participated from the 3rd to the 2nd 7th of March 2025 in the 3rd Meeting of States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons which entered into Force on 22 January 2021.

On 26 September here in New York, Panama participated in the conference under Article 14 of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty CTBT, which it co chaired together with Norway and Vienna. On that occasion, the co Chair was transferred to the Philippines and Sweden for the period 20252027 to continue leading efforts to promote the Treaty's entry into force and Panama urges the states that have not yet acceded to or ratified this treaty to do so as soon as possible.

We also participate participated in the preparatory meeting of States on the Global Framework for Through Life Conventional Ammunition management held from the 23rd to the 27th of June as preparation for the states meeting in 2027. Chair our region constantly issues a permanent call for peace oriented toward the continuous pursuit of disarmament and non proliferation. Panama is to compared committed to a world free of nuclear weapons and any form of threat of nuclear weapons and we participated on 26 September 2025 in the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons reaffirming our firm position on this matter. We've always called for peaceful resolution of conflicts and to support the existing disarmament and non proliferation regime. Panama is a state party to the Treaty for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean known as the Treaty of Tatalolco which established the first nuclear weapon free zone in one of the world's most densely populated regions.

Panama is aware that the so called arms race represents a global risk with devastating and irreversible effects on human life and development, including for future generations. This conduct constitutes a threat to international peace and security. Panama also recognizes that the actions and efforts of our international community must be directed towards the constant pursuit of peace, security and the well being of all nations and their citizens. Chair the Republic of Panama, as a country elected to the United Nations Security Council reiterates its commitment to multilateralism and to the United nations system adhering to the UN Charter and promoting dialogue among states in conflict. Our country is committed to the non proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and Panama, from its position on the Security Council and its role as chair of the 1540 committee has worked to strengthen and maintain the relevance of this subsidiary body tasked with preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

Panama believes it to be of paramount importance that we promote and advance the implementation of Resolution 1540 and its successor resolutions as these constitute a shield against the ongoing threat of proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, whether by by State or by non state actors. Chair we'd also like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Permanent Representative of Singapore, His Excellency Bohan Ghafour and his team for their leadership in chairing the open ended Working Group on Security of and in the Use of Information and Communications Technologies 2021-2025 established by General assembly resolutions which concluded its 11th substantive session from the 7th to the 11th of July 2025. Chair we also believe that States need to remain vigilant with regard to use and advances in new technologies such as AI in order to identify mechanisms to prevent their illicit use and their application in arms races. Finally, Chair we believe that we must build through every possible effort societies that are free from violence and an international community based on justice and respect for commitments to international peace and security. We must work together with determination and multilateralism to achieve a world that is free of threats and where all states may live together in peace.

Thank you very much.


Chair [1:40:48]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Panama for his statement. I'd like to give the floor to the distinguished representative of Eritrea. You have the floor.


Eritrea [1:41:02]:

Thank you. Chair Let me join others in congratulating you and members of the Bureau on your elections to steal the work of the Affairs Committee. And I assure you of my delegation's full support while aligning with the statement delivered by the distinguished delegations of Uganda and Guinea Pissau on behalf of the NAM and the African Group respectively, Allow me to make the following brief remarks in my national capacity. Chair the 80th session of the first committee comes amidst of a fragile international peace and security characterized by heightened geopolitical tensions, military adventurism, zero sum security logic, policies of containment and illegal unilateral sanctions as well as proxy wars among others. Apparently the defunct unipolarity unilateralism in the so called rules based order have proved to be ineffective to address existing and emerging global crisis.

Despite such glaring alarms and the collective wisdom of the majority, the futile attempts to impose a unipolar global order in the last 30 years or so and in particular the crisis pound in these times aimed at reviving defunct alliances and military blocks are increasingly propelling our global community into the ages of a more perilous calamity. The grave manifestations of the existing hegemonic world order is the catastrophic war unleashed to stifle the Palestinian cause and evict them from their land and the commotion that it continues to engender and the wider regional conflagration that it has triggered. This vicious war must end and hope for a durable peace in the region. Chair While saving succeeding generations from this scourge of war remains one of the core purpose of the United nations. The continued existence of nuclear weapons and their possible use or threat of use erodes the main threats of international peace and security.

Such threats are only to be compounded with raging conflicts and geopolitical tensions across various regions deteriorating the global security architecture. It is further alarming that with the advent of new technologies, there is an increase in the quantity and quality of new types of nuclear weapons as provided in the military doctrines of some nuclear power states. As disturbing as it is, the risk of nuclear proliferation is also a sobering manifestation associated with the existence of nuclear weapons. Regrettably, these distressing developments have been witnessed against the existing disarmament regimes as set out in the NPT and CTBT and other relevant international obligations and commitments. Article 6 of the NPT specifically obliges nuclear weapons states to pursue negotiations in good faith for nuclear disarmament and to establish a treaty on general and complete disarmament under strict and effective control.

However, absent of the requisite political goodwill and the failure of the nuclear weapons States to fulfill their legal obligations, the aim of total elimination of nuclear weapons remains far fetched and hence humanity continues to be gravely threatened. The lack of consensus in the past two review conferences of the NPT further reveals a dwindling hope to achieve the lofty ideals of nuclear disarmament and total elimination of nuclear weapons. Chair in light of these daunting predicaments, nuclear weapons States must take transparent, verifiable, and irreversible steps towards fulfilling their legal obligations under the npt, CTBT and other relevant commitments. Moreover, zones of free nuclear weapons, particularly in the Middle east, need to be materialized as per the pertinent anger resolutions. It is high time for a collective result to avoid one of the gravest threats to humanity and deliver up to the Charter's promise of saving succeeding generations from any catastrophic war, particularly a nuclear war.

Furthermore, legally binding negative assurances and universalization of CTBT and the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons are critical steps toward complete denuclearization. Apparently, nuclear weapons are not the only source of threat to international peace and security. Conventional weapons, as well as the proliferation, transfer and circulation of illicit small arms and light weapons continue to be the major causes of destruction across all regions. In addition, other weapons of mass destruction include chemical, biological and toxin weapons are threatening international peace and security. Chairwide disarmament and non proliferation are the main pillars of the npt.

The peaceful use of nuclear energy should be equally upheld as the inalienable right of all states to develop all aspects of nuclear science, technology and peaceful use without any discrimination consistent with their treaty obligation. As such, the free Unimpeded and non discriminatory transfer of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes must be fully respected. In this context, IAEA's increased input and assistance to developing countries in the field of nuclear power, nuclear safety and security, as well as nuclear technology applications are commendable. Chair in conclusion, the global order undergoes through transformative changes. Easing the global geopolitical tensions, building confidence and mending the trust deficit remains critical imperatives.

Our collective resolve for a peaceful, just and inclusive world order should galvanize the requisite political goodwill and available resources. The gravity of the interlocking problems that humanity is grappling with are immense, warranting urgent and comprehensive remedial measures. More importantly, the principles enshrined in the UN Charter and the notion of multilateralism and intergovernmentally agreed terms should govern the noble goal of maintaining international peace and security. Eritrea categorically rejects any reckless attempts transgressing the cardinal principles of the UN Charter in pursuit of perceived geopolitical interest, as this will lead to unprecedented regional and international destabilization. I thank you, Chair.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [1:48:44]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Eritrea for his statement. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Tajikistan. You have the floor. Thank you. Mr. Chairman.


Tajikistan [1:48:56]:

I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to Ambassador Massari's appointment as Chairman of the First Committee. I wish to reaffirm our delegation's unwavering support throughout this session. Furthermore, I would like to express our profound appreciation to the esteemed members of the Bureau and the Secretariat of the First Committee for their continued cooperation and invaluable assistance. Mr. Chairman, Tajikistan firmly believes that the enhancement of multilateral mechanisms for arms control, disarmament and non proliferation remains a foundation of global peace and stability in an increasingly complex security environment. It is imperative that the international community strengthen these frameworks to ensure a safer and more secure world for all.

The threat of nuclear proliferation continues to be a matter of concern. In this regard, Tajikistan reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the Treaty on the Non Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which we view as the cornerstone of international nuclear disarmament and non proliferation regime. Upholding and strengthening this vital treaty is essential to preventing the spread of nuclear weapons. Therefore, we believe that the 2026 NPT review would be an excellent opportunity to reiterate our commitment towards the implementation of this landmark international treaty. But regrettably, the repeated inability of the NPT Review conferences to achieve consensus has hindered the comprehensive implementation of the treaty.

Given its pivotal role in upholding international peace and security, it is imperative that we Adopt fresh and innovative approaches to advance the Treaty's effective application. Mr. Chairman, in our collective pursuit of a world free from the threat of nuclear weapons, the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, the CTBT stands as another vital instrument. It is not merely a legal framework, it is a moral and strategic imperative. Yet, despite its significance and near universal support, the Treaty has not entered into force. This delay undermines our shared commitment to nuclear disarmament and weakens the credibility of international security regime.

Tajikistan therefore calls upon all member states that have yet to sign or ratify the CDBT to take prompt and decisive action towards its entry into force, thereby reinforcing our shared commitment to a world free of nuclear testing and advancing the cause of global peace and security. Let us not allow inertia to stall progress for the sake of future generations. For the integrity of our global security framework and for the promise of a safer world, we must act with resolve and urgency. Mr. Chairman, we are confident that the establishment of nuclear Weapon free zones is an important element of nuclear disarmament and non proliferation, expanded cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy and strengthening of regional and international peace and security. We are honored to stand as a committed party to the Treaty on the Nuclear Weapon Free Zone in Central Asia.

This landmark agreement embodies our region's unwavering dedication to peace and security. Through this Treaty, the nations of Central Asia have collectively advanced the cause of disarmament and made a meaningful contribution to both regional stability and the broader architecture of global security. Thus, we will be closely cooperating with our international partners to accelerate their ratification by of the Protocol to the Central Asian Nuclear Weapon Free Zone on negative security assurances. Mr. Chairman, we commend the successful conclusion of the mandate of the United Nations Open Ended Working Group on the Security of and in the Use of information and communication technologies. 20212025 throughout its tenure, the Group has demonstrated its value as an inclusive and result oriented forum, contributing meaningfully to the advancement of international dialogue on ICT security.

Notably, the consensus reached to establish in 2026 a permanent United nations negotiating body on ICTs represents a significant milestone. This future mechanism is poised to serve as the principal global platform for comprehensive deliberations on all dimensions of ICT related security. Mr. Chair, distinguished delegates and in closing, I wish to reaffirm Tajikistan's enduring belief in the power of multilateralism and in the United nations as the principal universal platform for fostering consensus on matters of global significance. We recognize the United nations unique role in mobilizing the collective will of the international community to address the complex challenges and emerging risks of our time.

Tajikistan remains fully committed to supporting the UN's efforts in promoting inclusive solutions, strengthening international norms and advancing the shared goals of peace, stability and prosperity. I thank you.


Chair [1:54:12]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Tajikistan for his statement. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Arab Emirates. You have the floor.


United Arab Emirates [1:54:25]:

Mr. Chair, at the outset, please allow me to congratulate Mr. Mauricio Massari on his election as Chair of the First Committee during the 80th session of the General Assembly. We express our Sincere appreciation to Mrs. Marita Chan for her dedicated efforts and able leadership during the previous session. We align ourselves with the statements delivered by the gct, the Arab Group and the nam. The world is grappling today with an unprecedented number of armed conflicts, including long standing conflicts in the Middle East.

Despite this, recent challenges offer a much needed glimmer of hope for a more stable and peaceful future. The UAE welcomes the announcement of an agreement on the first phase of the ceasefire framework in Gaza. We hope that this agreement will alleviate the humanitarian suffering in Gaza and lay the groundwork for a just and lasting settlement that promotes the peace and stability in the region.

All parties must fully adhere to the terms of the agreement and resume a credible, comprehensive political process leading to the two state solution. International Disarmament and Non Proliferation agreements play a vital role in upholding regional and international peace and security and reinforcing an international order grounded in collective security and nuclear non proliferation. This is particularly important with the continued existence of nuclear weapons and the ongoing efforts by some states to develop these weapons and threaten to use them. The NPT is the cornerstone of the global nuclear disarmament and non proliferation. We emphasize the importance of the CTBT.

We call on all Annex 2 countries to take urgent steps to sign and ratify the TTBT without delay, paving the way for its entry into force. Equally important is the safeguards regime of the iaea, which serves as a key instrument to verify compliance with non proliferation commitments and promote transparency and trust among states. In light of recent developments in the region, we underscore the importance of pursuing negotiations to address security concerns related to Iran's nuclear program through dialogue and diplomacy while avoiding any military escalation. In this context, we call on Iran to fully cooperate with the IAEA to ensure that its nuclear activities remain exclusively for peaceful purposes. We condemn the DPRK's ongoing development of nuclear capabilities and ballistic missile programs.

These activities pose a serious threat to regional and international peace and security and violate relevant Security Council resolution. The establishment of nuclear weapon free zones across the world remains an urgent priority. The UAE looks forward to actively participating in the sixth session of the Conference on the Establishment of a Zone free of nuclear Weapons and other weapons of mass destruction in the Middle east, scheduled to take place under the Presidency of Morocco in November. Chair Multilateral action and global cooperation are fundamental to addressing trends transnational cyber threats that target the critical infrastructure of nations. This requires robust regulatory frameworks that enhance cybersecurity, counter cyber attacks and strengthen stability and digital security at the regional and global levels.

The continued development of space programs demands enhanced dialogue among states with advanced space space capabilities to ensure the sustainability of outer space, prevent an arms race and uphold the principles of shared responsibility and responsible behavior to maintain a weapons free space environment. Women play a vital and continued role in multilateral action. We call for continued efforts to ensure the full, equal and meaningful participation of women in the decision making processes related to disarmament. Youth must be engaged in shaping solutions for disarmament and international security issues, thus fostering a safer and more stable future for all. In conclusion, we consider the Secretary General's UN 80 initiative an important opportunity to strengthen the UN's capacity to advance its fundamental mission of promoting multilateralism mainly in disarmament and non proliferation preparation for comprehensive and sustainable solutions that enhance international peace and security.

Thank you.


Chair [1:59:07]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the United Arab Emirates, Shukran. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Namibia. You have the floor.


Namibia [1:59:31]:

Mr. Chair, I wish to congratulate you together with your bureau on your election as chair of the first committee for the 80th session the UN General assembly and assure you of my delegation's full support and cooperation as you carry out your mandate. My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered by the African Group and the Non Aligned Movement. The following additional remarks are made in my national capacity. Peace and security is one of the pillars of this organization which was founded 80 years ago to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war.

It was established out of the ashes of the first and Second World wars that had ravaged most of Western Europe and many parts of the world. Although numbers are inconclusive, estimates indicate that about 100 million people were killed in the two global wars. What we learn from this historic fact is that war is undesirable. However, mistrust, distrust, intolerance, pride, egocentric tendencies, competition, greed, revenge, superiority complexes and the fear of what if still rage on between nations. The result is heightened tensions in a highly polarized world, protracted conflicts, the threat of the use of nuclear weapons and the misuse of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, which pose grave risks to humanity.

This troubling context is exacerbated by the continued modernization of armament coupled by increased investments in weapons, ammunition and other armament. These actions run counter to our work in this Committee and the superior spirit and objectives of the United nations, which was established to promote peace, prevent conflict and foster international cooperation. Namibia therefore urges all Member States to recommit to the principles of disarmament and collective security and to prioritize diplomacy in dialogue over militarization and confrontation. In line with this long standing commitment to nuclear disarmament and the integrity of the Treaty on the Non Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which is the npt, Namibia wishes to express concern over the inability of the last two successive NPT Review Conferences to reach consensus on a final outcome Document Namibia regards the NPT as a cornerstone of the Non Proliferation Regiment and the foundation for international cooperation to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. For this reason, we remain firm in our conviction that inclusive multilateral cooperation and negotiations among States pave the way for curbing the proliferation of nuclear weapons while mitigating the impact of their humanitarian consequences.

It is our sincere Hope that the 2026 NPT Review Conference will achieve desired results. In a time of growing distrust and competition between nuclear powers, it is essential that all nuclear non nuclear weapons states should be provided with universal, unconditional, non discriminatory and legally binding assurances by all nuclear weapons States States against the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons under any circumstances. Mr. Chair being mindful of the humanitarian consequences caused by the use of nuclear weapons, Namibia believes that the universalization and full implementation of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons will guarantee against the use of nuclear weapons by ensuring their total elimination. As a State Party to the tpnw, Namibia calls on all States who have not done so to accede to and ratify the TPNW TPNW particularly nuclear Weapons States with regard to the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty N Namibia believes that it is important to achieve universal adherence and reiterates its call for the ratification of the CTBT, especially by Annex 2 states in view of its entry into force.

Furthermore, as a State Party to the African Nuclear Weapons Free Zone, which is the Pelindaba, Namibia remains a committed advocate of nuclear Weapons free zones because of the value they add to global disarmament and non proliferation efforts. We therefore support the establishment in all regions of the world. We believe that this constitutes a confidence building measure and an important step in achieving Nuclear disarmament and non proliferation. For this reason, Namibia calls for the establishment of a nuclear weapons free zone and the prohibition of all other weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery in the Middle east without further delay and as recommended by the 1995 Non Proliferation Treaty Review and Extension Conferences. Namibia welcomes the developments in Gaza towards a lasting ceasefire, the return of thousands of internally displaced civilians and the opening of humanitarian corridors to come to their aid and their release of hostages.

Namibia reaffirms its support for the inalienable right of the people of Palestine to self determination. We equally stand firm in our resolve that the UN Security Council must finally address the impasse over the holding of a referendum in Africa's last colony, Western Sahara and ensure the right to self determination. Mr. Chair, Namibia recognizing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in advancing development, peace and security. However, we are equally concerned about the risks posed by the unregulated use of AI in military applications, autonomous weapons systems and surveillance technologies.

Namibia calls for ethical governance of emerging technologies. This year we mark the anniversary of the 25th anniversary of the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 under Namibian's presidency of the Council in the year 2000. Our country remains a steadfast advocate for the women peace and security agenda, consistently championing the empowerment of women as a cornerstone of sustainable peace and inclusive security. In this regard, Namibia underscores the nexus, critical nexus between women and disarmament, recognizing that meaningful progress in peace building and arms control must be informed by approaches that are sensitive towards the needs of women. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [2:07:21]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Namibia for his statement. And now I give the floor to His Excellency, the Permanent Representative of Luxembourg. Excellency, you have the floor.


Luxembourg [2:07:36]:

Thank you. Chair, allow me to congratulate you. I congratulate Ambassador Massari on his election to chair this First Committee. Rest assured that you have my delegation's full support. Luxembourg aligns itself with a statement made by the European Union and I would like to add a few comments in our national capacity.

The global arms control, disarmament and non proliferation architecture as well as international security is today in profound disarray due to flag and violations of international law. The illegal and unjustified war of aggression waged by Russia against Ukraine is a sinister and unacceptable example of this. Russian bombings don't discriminate and there is also Russia's irresponsible nuclear rhetoric which has escalated. All of this is jeopardizing international peace and security. This is also true for the situation in the Gaza Strip.

Where civilians been the primary victims of international humanitarian law violations committed in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. We sincerely hope that the ceasefire agreement that was reached recently will be respected by all parties and will lead to a swift improvement of the humanitarian situation. In this difficult context. Luxembourg remains truly committed to the international rules based order supported by instruments that ensure strategic stability. With this in mind, we deplore Russia's suspension of its participation in the New START Treaty.

We have taken note of the Russian proposal to extend this treaty by a year. It is now up to the United States to consider this opportunity, taking into account all of the security implications on our side. We call on the United States, Russia and China, the three principal nuclear powers, to negotiate a trilateral agreement to provide a new framework for reduction of nuclear weapons. Luxembourg remains a strong defender of the NPT and underscores the essential role played by the International Air Energy Agency, Atomic Energy Agency and the importance of the entry into force of the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. We support the launch without further ado of negotiations on a treaty to prohibit the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons.

Luxembourg fully supports also the triggering of the snapback sanctions mechanism because of Iran's non respectful obligations under the jcpoa. We call now on Iran to return to the tip of negotiations, to resume its cooperation with the IAEA and its Director General in full and to fully implement its agreement under the NPT guarantees. Luxembourg also urges the DPRK to immediately abandon its nuclear weapons programs and its ballistic missile program programs and to do so in a complete, verifiable and inverse irreversible way. The Legation remains deeply concerned by the precarious situation regarding the nuclear facilities in Ukraine, particularly the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. This is a situation we condemn.

Russia's illegal occupation of this in the strongest terms. The electricity supply to the nuclear power plant must be guaranteed. We demand once again the immediate conditional and full withdrawal of Russian forces and hardware from the entire territory of Ukraine. Luxembourg recall that nuclear sharing arrangements of NATO longstanding and are in line with Articles 1 and 2 of the NPT. It is the actions of Russia as well as those of China who are developing their nuclear arsenal with a lack of transparency.

It is those actions which are fusing which are fueling threats to the NPT in terms of chemical weapons. We welcome the cooperation between the new authorities of Syria and the OPCW to eliminate the remnants of the chemical weapons program which was developed under the Assad regime alongside 52 other states. Luxembourg was proud to co sponsor the decision to allow an accelerated destruction in situ of all the remnants of chemical weapons in the Syrinaro Republic. This was adopted by consensus during the 110th session of the executive order of the OPCW. In the context of the Russia's war of aggression, we condemn in the strongest terms Russia's use of riot control agents as a weapon of war as well as the alleged use of Russian troops of poison gas chloropicrine in Ukraine.

We welcome the remarkable done carried out by the APCW as reflected in the three reports of the technical assistance visits that they drafted on Ukraine's request. It is now crucial that the OPCW moves to attribution of the these violations. Outer space is a key area for multilateral cooperation. We must prevent conduct that hinders access peaceful access to outer space for all states. We welcome the start of substantive discussions on the complex relationship between responsible behaviour and potentially legally binding provisions that's being held in the open.

Ending Working Group on the prevention of an arms race in Outer Space with Paros Committee. Luxembourg remains convinced that the group of governmental experts on the CCW remains the most appropriate framework for work to be concluded on lethal autonomous weapon systems. We welcome the technical detail as well as progress that we've seen in the discussions at the gge. It will continue to take a double dual approach here which seeks to fully prohibit autonomous weapon system and to regulate systems with a certain level of autonomy. Luxembourg remains strongly committed to the anti Personal Mine Ban Convention and we continue to advocate for universalizing this convention.

And speaking of, we call on all delegations who have not yet done so to endorse the political declaration on strengthen the protection of civilians from the humanitarian consequences from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas. When these explosive weapons are used in populated areas, it is mainly civilians and civilian infrastructure that suffer and we saw this in Gaza. Chair, I'll conclude by underscoring the success of the work of this Committee as well as related fora partially depends on the effective implementation of robust export controls. These controls build trust between states ensuring that sensitive technology doesn't fall into the wrong hands. Thus, these controls contribute to facilitate the transfer of technology to developing countries rather than hindering it as some would seek to improve fly.

In conclusion, I wish every success to the Chair and the bureau of the first committee at this 80th session. Thank you very much.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [2:15:26]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Luxembourg for his statement. Merci.

And I now would like to give the floor to the Permanent representative of Ecuador. Your Excellency, Ambassador of Ecuador, you have the floor. Thank you very much. Chair I'll be reading part of the complete intervention that will be sent to the delegates. Portal the legal framework that gave rise to the international architecture of disarmament and non proliferation was born as a direct response to the most painful lessons of the Second World War.


Ecuador · Permanent Representative [2:16:06]:

It was conceived to prevent the repetition of such disasters, to contain the destructive capacities of states and to protect civilian populations from the horrors of conflict. Eighty years after the creation of the United nations, this normative framework, shaped through treaties, conventions and resolutions, has consolidated standards and obligations that have contained existential risks, reduced arsenals and laid the foundations for conflict prevention policies. This technical and historic body of law represents a legal guarantee for international peace and security, the normative expression of humanity's collective will to avert catastrophe and protect future generations. That purpose must not wane and states bear the responsibility of creating or adapting the existing framework to new realities. My country reiterates that the sovereign equality of states, the primacy of the Charter and full respect for international law are indispensable conditions for a just, lasting and universal peace.

This is why Ecuador reaffirmed affirms its unwavering commitment to the validity, strengthening and comprehensive application of this legal framework. Chair Distinguished Colleagues, the world must persevere in the pursuit of an order of peace and prosperity free from the scourge of weapons of mass destruction. Ecuador firmly reiterates that there are no safe hands when it comes to nuclear weapons. Preventing their use, whether deliberate or accidental, by state or non state actors, is an inescapable collective responsibility. Each year, vast resources are devoted to the modernization and expansion of nuclear arsenals.

While global challenges such as the climate crisis, poverty and food insecurity continue to afflict humanity and jeopardize the future of coming generations. Ecuador underscores the urgent need for the full and effective implementation of the Treaty on the Non Proliferation of nuclear weapons. The NPT review conference, scheduled for 2026 must be seized upon as an opportunity to revitalize the collective commitment to nuclear disarmament. My delegation hopes that the conference will produce an ambitious roadmap with measurable commitments by nuclear weapons states and practical measures that will strengthen the credibility and the effectiveness of the non proliferation regime. Ecuador reiterates its call on those states that have not yet done so to accede to the Treaty on the Prohibition of nuclear weapons.

The TPNW as soon as possible and we underscore that the TP TPNW complements and reinforces the MPT regime. My country welcomes the holding of the third meeting of States Parties to the TPNW held in March 2025. We recognize the progress achieved within the framework of these meetings and in particular, we welcome the agreed mandate to advance towards a review and implementation agenda for the treaty leading to the first review conference of the TPNW scheduled for November 2026 next year. The indiscriminate use of conventional weapons, including small arms and light weapons, constitutes a persistent threat to peace and security, particularly in developing countries. These weapons fuel the activities of transnational organized criminal networks facilitating drug trafficking, human trafficking and other illicit activities that erode governance and development.

Their effects are especially harmful to women, girls, boys and the most vulnerable communities. From this Committee we must redouble efforts to prevent and combat the illicit trafficking in small arms and light weapons. Improved standards for marking, registration and tracing a move toward a robust regulatory framework encompassing the integrated management of ammunition manufacture, transfer, storage and the safe destruction of obsolete stockpiles. Colleagues, Transnational organized crime is a scourge and it requires a concerted response on the part of the international community. Ecuador welcomes the outcome of the open ended Working Group on Security and the Use of Information and Communication Technologies.

My delegation looks forward to the establishment of the permanent United Nations Cybersecurity Mechanism. This mechanism represents a decisive step towards institutionalizing responsible behavior in cyberspace and promoting trust among states. It must prioritize strengthening the capacities of developing countries and facilitate technical cooperation and the exchange of best practices and assistance for the protection of critical infrastructure. Distinguished colleagues, Let us agree that budgetary efficiency must be sought through technical and management solutions, not through the erosion of linguistic equality which worsens and exacerbates asymmetries. And that's why I would be grateful.

I'm grateful, Chair, that you began your intervention in one of the six official languages of this organization. Multilingualism is a cornerstone of multilateralism and a fundamental principle enshrined in the Charter. For Ecuador, respect for linguistic diversity is a condition for an authentic dialogue that's based on equality and inclusion. In conclusion, contemporary challenges demand that the United nations transform the way it operates. It is not enough to update concepts or reiterate commitments.

It is imperative that we renew our tools, revitalize political will and rethink from this committee the way we conceive and promote international peace and security. Ecuador calls for bold, effective and solidarity based multilateral action. The organization must exercise moral and operational leadership capable of translating commitments into concrete results, turning promises into verifiable policies, and ensuring that accountability becomes the hallmark of our distinctive hallmark of our collective action. Thank you very much.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [2:23:42]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Ecuador for his statement and also for having praised my efforts to speak in Spanish.

God. To the distinguished representative of Kenya. You have the floor. Thank you. Mr.


Kenya [2:23:59]:

Chair, may I take this opportunity to congratulate you and the members of the Bureau on your election to lead this 80th session. I assure you of Kenya's support and cooperation. My delegation aligns with the statement delivered by the distinguished representative of Nigeria. Nigeria and the Indonesia on behalf of the African Group and the Non Aligned Movement, respectively. I will now make additional remarks in my national capacity.

Our global peace and security situations remain fragile and precarious. The global landscape is increasingly defined by wars, unprotected armed conflict that have pushed the world to a dangerous humanitarian tipping point. Unfortunately, the UN Charter, the bedrock of our shared values in multilateralism, diplomacy and respect for international law, stands undermined by this collation of geopolitical rivalries today. Unilateral actions, dangerous power plays, overlapping initiatives and competing processes that risk fragmenting our efforts have replaced cooperation, cooperation and dialogue. As Member States, we have a duty to uphold our commitments to the UN Charter and prioritize peace over conflict, dialogue over division and cooperation over unilateralism.

The course of ignoring the core principles enshrined in the UN Charter is far too high. The continuation of these wars is an indictment of not only the perpetrators, but also the international peace and security architecture that has failed to stop these senseless wars and hold the perpetrators to account. In this time of global uncertainty, Kenya continues to provide leadership at the regional level and beyond, working within its capacity to contribute to our shared goal of achieving sustainable peace and restoring dignity to women, men and children affected by conflict. Mr. Chair, the only absolute guarantee against the use of nuclear weapons lies in their complete elimination.

The road to this end is constructive engagement, political will and the full implementation of multilateral obligations until nuclear disarmament is achieved. We remain hopeful that the 26th NPT conference will yield positive and tangible outcomes in this regard and call for the full implementation of Article 6 of the Treaty and the guidelines of the International Atomic Energy Agency as a state party to the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. Kenya urges all Annex 2 states to promptly ratify the treaty to facilitate its long overdue entry into force. At the same time, we emphasize the importance of upholding the inalienable right of all states to develop peaceful nuclear technology in accordance with the Article 4 of the NPT. In this regard, we call for strengthened capacity building initiatives and equitable access to nuclear Technology that promotes peaceful development and shared progress.

My delegation reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the Chemical Weapons Convention, recognizing that the complete and verifiable elimination of chemical weapons is fundamental to international peace, security and the rule based multilateral order. We condemn the use of chemical weapons by any actor under any circumstances as a great breach of international law and the threat to global stability. We call for enhanced vigilance, strengthened national implementation and sustained international collaboration, including capacity building, information sharing that chemistry is sharing a scientific exchange within the OPCW framework to ensure that chemistry is only used exclusive for peaceful and beneficial purposes in advancing humanity. The advent of artificial intelligence in the military domain and the use of lethal autonomous weapon systems are sources of concern owing to the dual use of such technologies offering both humanitarian benefits and posing serious risk to civilians when weaponized. Kenya's international community to move decisively towards the negotiation of of a largely binding agreement with clear prohibitions and robust regulations that ensure such technological advancements serve to protect humanity rather than diminish its value.

Mr. Chair, in line with the Secretary General's report on artificial intelligence in the military domain and its implication for international peace and security, Kenya emphasizes that in any military use of AI must remain under meaningful human supervision and in full conformity with the Charter of United nations, international humanitarian law and human rights law. We support the establishment of an inclusive and dedicated process within the United nations to address the governance, risk and security implication of AI in the military space, ensuring that it's its use contributes to stability and protection of civilians rather than to escalate harm. My delegation is deeply concerned about the potential deployment of testing weapons in outer space which threatens global security and stability. We reaffirm the importance of preventing an arms race in outer space and preserving it as a domain for peaceful purposes and the benefit of all humankind.

And support calls for continued dialogue to ensure that all the space remains free of conflict and is governed by international cooperation, mutual trust and adherence to the law. Mr. Chairman, we commend the progress under the open ended Working Group on Security and in the Use of Information Communication Technology 2021-2025 which advanced important discussion on cyber norms and global digital security. My delegation is confident that we can achieve consensus on an inclusive future institutional dialogue that will build on progress made thus far. The illicit proliferation of small arms, light weapons and their ammunition have a devastating impact on human life and livelihoods and continue to exacerbate conflicts and undermine development effort. My delegation calls for enhanced initiative to eradicate the illicit arms trade as well as Increase capacity building for member States, particularly on weapons management and destruction of illegal arms.

We view the upcoming 9th biannual meeting of States as an opportunity to address emerging challenges, enhanced institutional cooperation and assistance and advance concrete, measurable progress in implementing the Program of Action and the International Tracing Instrument. In conclusion, I confirm Kenya's. I reaffirm Kenya's unwavering commitment to constructive engagement on matters of disarmament and international security and call for unity of purpose to increase a safer. Create a safer and more peaceful world for current and future generation. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [2:31:44]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Kenya for his statement. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uganda. You have the floor.


Uganda [2:31:58]:

Thank you, Chair. Distinguished delegates, on behalf of the delegation of the Republic of Uganda, I wish to extend our congratulations to you, Mr. Chair, on your election to preside over the first committee. And we commit to support your leadership in our national capacity. Uganda fully aligns with the statements of the Non Aligned Movement and the African Group.

We reaffirm our commitment to the principles of multilateralism, disarmament and peaceful resolution of conflicts which have long been the foundation of the United nations and a key element of a just international order. Mr. Chair, in light of the escalating geopolitical tensions, major power libraries and spread of increasingly advanced weaponry, we are witnessing gradual erosion of confidence in global institutions. These concerning trends pose significant challenges to our collective ability to address shared threats effectively, risking jeopardization of any hard won progress and ambitions for lasting international peace and security. Lasting security can neither be achieved through dominance, deterrence nor pursuit of military superiority.

Rather, it is through open dialogue, gaining equity and mutual respect that nations can forge a more secure and harmonious future. At this critical juncture, we urge all states to reaffirm their dedication to cooperation and restraint. We must set aside the logical confrontation in favour of wisdom of compromise and a collective commitment to shared action for the common good. Uganda reaffirms.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [2:34:22]:

Yes, please. Carry on, please. Okay.


Uganda [2:34:25]:

Uganda reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the complete elimination of nuclear weapons as envisaged under the Treaty of Non Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. We join the international community in encouraging all nuclear weapons states to fully honor their disarmament obligations and engage in a spirit of gaining partnership with non nuclear weapons states to further the aims of the treaty.

The ongoing modernization and expansion of nuclear arsenals not only threatens global security, but also diverse valuable resources that could otherwise be channeled into critical sectors such as education, health and infrastructure, which are the pillars essential for building resilience and peaceful societies. Uganda Therefore urges all States renew their commitment to the shared vision of a world free of nuclear weapons. Additionally, Uganda underscores the right of Member States to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes as enshrined in the NPT to promote sustainable development and improve the quality of life for their citizens. My delegation further underscores the critical need to reinforce international legal architecture governing nuclear disarmament and non proliferation. In this regard, we express our unequivocal support for the expedited entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty and respectively urge all States that have not yet done so to produce to proceed with the signing and ratification of this pivotal instrument at the earliest opportunity.

Uganda calls upon the international community to commence, without delay or preconditions substantive negotiations towards the establishment of of a legal binding agreement prohibiting the production of fissile material intended for nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices. Mr. Chair, Uganda wishes to express its profound concern regarding the ground with the growing weaponization of emerging domains, notably the outer space and the cyberspace. The militarization of the outer space and the advancement of offensive cyber capabilities present unprecedented and multifaceted challenges to international peace and security. It is imperative that these domains do not become theaters for confrontation and rivalry.

Uganda therefore reaffirms its support for robust, legally binding international frameworks aimed at preventing an arms race in the outer space and safeguarding the peaceful utilization of this shared global commons.

The proliferation of conventional arms, including small arms and light weapons continues to exacerbate conflicts, undermine regional security stability and inflict significant human suffering, particularly in communities grappling with poverty and under development. Uganda rat races steadfast support for the comprehensive and effective implementation of international instruments designed to regulate the transfer and spread of small arms and light weapons. We call upon international community to intensify collaborative efforts to counter the illicit trafficking of such arms, including through the strengthening of border controls, enhancement of stockpile management and provision of targeted capacity building assistance to countries most affected.

Uganda family believes that sustainable peace and development are deeply interconnected. Root causes of conflicts often lie in poverty, inequality and lack of opportunities. Therefore, we call upon Member States to prioritize an increase in investment in critical areas rather than militarization.

Uganda remains unwavering in its commitment to robust and effective United Nations. A robust and effective United Nations. One that is responsive to evolving global challenges, attuned to the needs and aspirations of its members. Member States. We believe that the continued strength of this institution is essential for fostering peace and security.

In closing, Uganda stands already to work in partnership with all Member States towards The realization of world free of weapons of mass destruction, governed by principles of international law and inspired by values of peace, dignity and shared prosperity. We respectfully encourage this committee to embrace this unique opportunity to reaffirm our shared commitment to the noble objectives and founding principles of the un. Let us advance together with collective wisdom and resolve to ensure that future generation inherit a world that is more peaceful. I thank you. I thank the distinguished representative of Uganda for his statement.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [2:40:16]:

I shall now call on delegations who have requested the right of reply. May I remind members that statements in the exercise of the right of reply are limited to four and a half minutes for the first intervention and to two and a half minutes for the second intervention. I call on the representative of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. You have the floor. Thank you.


Democratic People's Republic of Korea [2:40:41]:

Mr. Chair. My delegation would like to exercise a right of reply to the provocative and politically motivated remarks made by Ukraine, Norway, Spain, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates, Luxembourg and Japan that constitute an intolerable interference in the sovereign rights of the independent states. First, my delegation categorically rejects the groundless allegation against the DPRK's legitimate self defense measures. The possession of the nuclear weapons is not a matter of choice, but an inevitable and indispensable means for the DPRK to safeguard its national sovereignty, territorial integrity and the lives and the safety of its people from persistent foreign military threats, aggression and attack.

Today, the security situation on and around the Korean Peninsula is reaching unprecedented levels of tension, setting one dangerous record after another. This year alone, the United States has continuously escalated the military threat to our state by persistently deploying strategic strike assets on and around the Korean Peninsula while drastically expanding the frequency and scale of the joint military threats with its allies. The prevailing situation clearly demonstrate that the DPRK's most reasonable and effective option to ensure its national security and preserve regional stability is to ceaselessly strengthen its strategic detriment power, to crush the hostile forces attempt of aggression and to eliminate the sources of the military danger. No matter how severe the external circumstances may be. War will be completely dated when the internal strength of a nation becomes powerful enough to control and manage it.

Mr. Chair, my delegation also firmly rejects the politically driven and distorted comments made by certain Member states regarding the relations between the DPRK and the Russian Federation. As we made clear on numerous occasions, the cooperation between the DPRK and the Russian Federation is the legitimate exercise of the sovereign rights of both nations, fully consistent with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the DPRK and the Russian Federation Treaty. Such Slanderous and hypocritical remarks by certain countries can only be seen as a desperate attempt to deflect the responsibility for driving the European security situation to the brink of while seeking to justify and prolong the ongoing bloodshed. I thank you, Mr.

Chair.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [2:43:44]:

I call on the representative of the Russian Federation.


Russian Federation [2:43:51]:

Chair. We believe it necessary to continue to push back against the groundless accusations against Russia in this room with which have no bearing on reality. We categorically reject the attempts of Moldova to tarnish Russian peacekeeping efforts around Transnistria. We are a mediator and guarantor of negotiations and we respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Moldova which is enshrined in a bilateral treaty between our two countries from 2001. We'd like to.

The current state of affairs are being pinned on Russia and Moldova is trying in doing so to shirk responsibility for lack of dialogue over the last few years which has been degrading. The Moldovan authorities are showing a lack of political will and a lack of constructive cooperation which undermines prospects for a solution. An example of this is the ongoing attempts of Chisinau to cut off those living in Transonesia from. From their. From participation in parliamentary and presidential elections in the country which is their right in a democratic state.

In terms of Russian military presence in Transdnistra then the current mandate has been shown. It's been proven its worth over the years of the peacekeeping mission and this remains relevant and it is clearly linked to our participation towards achieving a political agreement to end the conflict. But this seems very far away at the moment. Peacekeepers at the moment are the only factor to guarantee peace in this region. Another region for this operative group is ensuring that the peacekeeping contingent alongside is a joint peacekeeping force and they need to protect military property and warehouses.

We fulfill our obligation on terms of the use of this property and we're ready to, once the situation in Ukraine has been been resolved, to take further practical steps in this direction. At the same time, it is crucial that all the technical aspects of this work to identify as are in on the bilateral front are carried out between the two countries. And the Minister of Foreign affairs of the OEC met and spoke about this in 2002. And the military property and warehouses in that are necessary for this have been protected, including in the context of the general progress been made to find a resolution to this situation. Economic pressure is on.

Transonesia is a dead end and we believe that Moldova has finally should should hopefully take a productive approach and return to negotiation tables to find a long lasting solution to the situation in Transdnistra. I'd like to underscore the Moldova has long needed to return to diplomatic work to find the solution to this situation, and particularly in the special status as set out for OSCE documents. Until this happens, Russian peacekeepers will be a key element of regional stability to prevent an escalation in the region. So I'd like to recall that any action that could increase a threat to our military will be seen looked at in line with international law as an attack on the Russian Federation. Thank you very much.


1st Committee · Chair · Maurizio Massari [2:47:25]:

Distinguished delegates. We have exhausted the time available for this meeting. Before we adjourn, let me remind delegations that the deadline for submission of draft resolutions and decisions under all agenda items is tomorrow at noon. And the list of speakers for the thematic debate closes on Tuesday, 21st of October at 6pm all delegations intending to take the floor during the thematic debate should inscribe on the list. The next meeting of the first committee will be held tomorrow afternoon at 3pm sharp in this conference room.

We shall continue with the general debate and I appeal to all delegations to be punctual to enable us to proceed with our work in a timely manner. The meeting is adjourned.