First Committee, 7th plenary meeting - General Assembly, 80th session

The seventh meeting of the Disarmament and 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. Allow me to remind delegations that the deadline for submission of all draft resolutions and decisions was today at noon. 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 His Excellency the Permanent Representative to the Conference on Disarmament of Italy. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you, Vice-Chair. Italy aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union. I will now add some remarks in my national capacity. We gather this year as the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary amid a gravely deteriorated security context. It is a trend that we have witnessed over the last few years and that requires renewed commitment on our part to reverse. The multilateral disarmament machinery that we have built over decades must now be preserved and protected against all threats. Chief among those threats, Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, but also its unacceptable nuclear saber-rattling that we continue to condemn in the strongest terms. Earlier this year, as in 2024, Moscow vetoed the participation of 15 EU member states and candidate countries as observers to the Conference on Disarmament. This was an unprecedented affront to the multilateral system and the principle of inclusivity. Vice Chair, we commend President Trump's negotiating efforts and the mediation of Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, which led to the signing on Monday in Sharm El-Sheikh of the first phase of the peace plan. The cessation of hostilities, the release of the hostages and the resumption of humanitarian aid are crucial steps as we now look to the longer term. Italy stands ready to participate in an international stabilization mission and to contribute to Gaza's reconstruction, sparing no effort to achieve the two state solution as the only path to lasting peace. Vice Chair. Italy shares the goal of a peaceful and secure world completely free of nuclear weapons. Article 6 of the NPT provides the necessary legal framework. There is no alternative instrument to the NPT. In under seven months, we will gather here for its eleventh review conference. The previous conference and the meetings of the Preparatory Committee have clearly shown how difficult it is to find agreement on a broad range of issues. In fact, consensus has been elusive for the past 15 years. Italy believes that we should now find the right balance between ambition and realism. The Review Conference should provide an opportunity for all States Parties to recommit to the core goals and principles of the NPT. As a staunch supporter of the CTBT, Italy urges all states that have not yet done so to sign and ratify the treaty without further delay and in the meantime to respect the moratorium on nuclear tests. It is also time we started long overdue negotiations on an FMCT in the CD. Italy believes that Iran should never possess nuclear weapons and urges Tehran to return to full and unhindered cooperation with the IAEA and to the negotiating table. All enriched fissile material must be accounted for. It is imperative to find a diplomatic way forward. We are also seriously concerned at the irresponsible behaviour of the DPRK, which represents a serious threat to international peace and security. We urge Pyongyang to take concrete steps towards a complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation. Vice-Chair, almost three years ago, the main result of the ninth review conference of the Biological Weapons Convention was the establishment of a working group to strengthen it. We now have a concrete and attainable goal before us to adopt the two mechanisms respectively on international cooperation and assistance and on science and technology. This should be done at a special conference to be convened hopefully in August 2026 as proposed by the chair of the working group. That special conference should also chart the way forward on compliance and verification by establishing a separate working group to address exclusively this crucial aspect. The military use of new and emerging technologies is becoming a priority issue. We support the ongoing work of the GGE on laws and are heartened to see that the two-tier approach is gaining traction. The eventual goal of this process should be the adoption of a protocol to the CCW. We also believe that the time has come to discuss the broader issue of military applications of new technologies, in particular AI, and to identify the right forum to do this. Italy remains strongly committed to supporting the CWC and the work of the OPCW. We strongly condemn any use of chemical weapons anywhere, at any time, by anyone, under any circumstances. Outer space security remains a top priority for us. The open-ended working group has started substantive work last July. We view the behavioral and the capabilities approaches as complementary in addressing the same threats. As far as the normative framework is concerned, Italy believes that urgent and serious consideration should be given to the idea of a legally binding instrument banning direct ascent anti-satellite tests in outer space. Chair, Vice-Chair, during Italy's presidency of the Conference on Disarmament earlier this year, five subsidiary bodies were established to deal with a main topic on the CD's agenda. It was the first time since 1996 that such a decision was taken in January and the sixth time that it was taken at all during the same period. While we regret that the subsidiary bodies were unable to agree on a report, our assessment of this year's session is not entirely negative. Delegations actively engaged in intensive debates and that work could form the basis for renewed discussions next year in a spirit of continuity. Many complain that the CD is in a deadlock. This is true, but it is also true that this is not the CD's fault. This is the result of deep divisions at the international level and of the abuse of the consensus rule. While we wait for the right time and the right conditions to restart our negotiating role, we should not renounce this opportunity to exchange views and seek common ground. This is all we have now, but it is important to safeguard it. Chair, the Ottawa Convention on Anti-Personnel Mines and the Oslo Convention on Cluster Munitions, two core humanitarian disarmament treaties, are facing unprecedented challenges. In its view, Increasing international tension and conflicts make the imperative of a world free of anti-personnel mines and cluster munitions even more urgent, and we renew our support to the principles and objectives enshrined in the Conventions and to their universalisation. Across all these issues, Italy highly values greater interaction with civil society and a gender perspective as a key contribution to our work. I thank you, Vice-Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Italy for his statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency, the Permanent Representative of the Syrian Arab Republic. Excellency, you have the floor.

I congratulate you on your election as chair of the first committee. I also extend my congratulations to the members of your bureau and I wish to assure you of our full support to ensure the success of this session. My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered by the Arab Group and with the statement made on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. Chairman, the Syrian Arab Republic believes that multilateral action consistent with the Charter is the only sustainable path to addressing disarmament and international security issues. This conviction is particularly important in light of the serious challenges that we face in the world today, particularly in our region and the threats to peace and security caused by the Israeli occupation authorities violating the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. They are interfering in our internal affairs and taking advantage of the transition period in order to make political gains. This is coinciding also with the suffering of our brothers and sisters on the Gaza Strip, and the international community must work together to put an end to this situation. We welcome the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. And we hope that this development will enable us to lift the suffering of civilians and will allow us to continue to deliver humanitarian aid, paving the way towards regional stability. We express our appreciation to Qatar, Turkey, Turkey, Egypt and the United States, who all contributed to reaching this agreement. Chairman, the Syrian Arab Republic reaffirms its steadfast commitment to cooperating with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, the OCPW. It condemns the use of chemical weapons at all times, anywhere, by anyone, under any circumstances. In the new Syria, my colleagues working on this file in Damascus and in the relevant ministries concerning the elimination of the chemical arsenal of the Assad regime, many of whom are survivors and witnesses of the use of these weapons, have become guarantors of truth and justice for the victims. And they are determined to ensure that such a tragedy isn't allowed to happen again and that we can rid Syria and the rest of the world of these abject weapons. This process led to Syria launching a new phase of cooperation following the fall of the Assad regime, demonstrating clear political will to turn the page of the past. Syria has succeeded in transforming its relationship with the international community from one of skepticism to one of partnership in achieving the goals of non-proliferation. This transformation was anchored by the reception of the OPCW Director General by the President of the Republic in February, leading a large delegation from the organization. Since then, Syria has hosted six teams of the Technical Secretariat looking to their deployment. One was cancelled due to the Israeli attack targeting the Ministry of Defense in Damascus. Because the Ministry of Defense is the party, the ministry that is supporting the OPCW on the ground. What's more, the Syrian government And this is an historic first. Through the permanent mission of our brother country, Qatar submitted a draft decision to the OPCW titled Accelerating On-Site Destruction of Any Remaining Chemical Weapons in the Syrian Arab Republic. This project was co-sponsored by 53 other countries and was adopted by consensus during the session of the Executive Council of the OPCW at its 110th session which took place at the beginning of this month. In this spirit, Syria, the Syrian government has also submitted a conceptual plan for the destruction and verification of any remaining chemical weapons and other legacy items from the Assad era. This work was also done with the support of the Qatari mission in this context chairman and given that history is written through international resolutions resolutions that reflect the suffering of peoples it is important for the resolution that will be presented to this committee to refer to the suffering of the Syrian people at the hands of chemical weapons which is why we call on all states to support this decision in order to rid Syria and the whole of the world of chemical weapons so that our people may be able to feel the support of the international community and so that our people aren't ignored and that we don't ignore this aspect of things. The Assad regime shrouded the chemical weapons program in secrecy, drawing on complex security architecture that was designed in order for them to dodge their obligations under the convention. And this made identifying and accessing the sites particularly difficult and risky. And the legacy that was left behind by the Al-Assad regime is one of them not complying. And there are also issues to do with economic recovery. The Assad regime left the country with significant stumbling blocks in eliminating the explosive remnants of war. And we require the international community to be mobilized in order to provide the resources, the equipment, the material and technical support also in order to support the efforts of the Syrian government and the OPCW. Chairman, Syria as a state party to the NPT considers that this treaty is a cornerstone of the global disarmament and non-proliferation regime given the situation in the Middle East region the countries of our region need to cooperate in order to build a better world and a better future for our region and this is why Syria attaches particular importance to international cooperation under international law and the UN Charter. The speaker's microphone was cut off, say the interpreters.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Syrian Arab Republic for his statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency, the Permanent Representative of the Lao People's Democratic Republic. Excellency, you have the floor.

The Chair, at the outset, I would like to congratulate the Chair, Vice-Chairs, and members of the Bureau on your election to lead the first Committee. We are confident in your leadership and reaffirm our delegation's full support and cooperation. My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered by representatives of Uganda and Malaysia on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement and ASEAN respectively. Mr. Chair, the current international security landscape continues to be complex and volatile, marked by ongoing tensions and conflicts in many parts of the world. We share the concern over the rising global military expenditure which heightens tensions rather than promotes peace and security. It is therefore imperative to reaffirm our commitment to multilateralism upon the UN Charter and fulfill our obligations under multilateral disarmament treaties to prevent future catastrophes. The Lao PDR reiterates its unwavering support for global efforts to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons. We regard the NPT as the cornerstone of nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and the peaceful use of nuclear energy. We extend our congratulations to Ambassador Do Hong Viet of Vietnam on his designation as President of the 2026 NPT Review Conference, and look forward to working closely with him and his team. The Lao PDR remains firmly committed to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material and its amendment, and the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone Treaty. We emphasized the complementarity nature of the TPNW with other key instruments, including the NPT, the CTBT, and nuclear weapon-free zone treaties. We underscored the importance of the full and effective implementation of all instruments related to weapons of mass destruction, including Security Council Resolution 1540. The Lao PDR remains fully committed to the Chemical Weapons Convention and the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention and believes our nations share a collective responsibility to uphold these norms. The Chair, while emerging technologies offer significant benefits, They also present new risks to international peace and security, particularly in cyberspace and outer space. We support the establishment of comprehensive frameworks to ensure these domains are used exclusively for peaceful purposes. The open-ended working group on the security of and in the use of ICTs has played a vital role in promoting international cooperation and capacity building in cybersecurity. We welcome the consensus adoption of its final report and the establishment of a global mechanism on ICT security. The Lao PDR stands ready to contribute to this important process. On small arms and light weapons, we welcome progress made under the global framework for through-life conventional ammunition management. the fourth review conference of the UN Programme of Action and the International Tracing Instrument. Mr. Chair, for over five decades, the Lao PDR has endured the devastating impact of cluster munitions. Unexploded ordnance, or UXO, continues to impact development and endanger life. The Convention on Cluster Munitions has brought renewed hope. Our national strategy, Safe Path Forward III, 2021-2030, aligns with the CCM and the Lawson Action Plan, integrating UXO action into our broader development agenda, including through our national SDG 18, Life Safe from UXO. Partnerships with the state parties, international organizations, and civil society have been instrumental in clearing contaminated land, delivering risk education, supporting survivors and facilitating the return of land for agriculture and infrastructure development. For the Lao PDR, the CCM is more than a disarmament treaty. It is a path to peace, development and dignity. We are honoured to assume the presidency and the host of the third review conference of state parties to the CCM in Vientiane in 2026. This is both a historic responsibility and opportunity to reaffirm our global unity in the fight against cluster munitions. In conclusion, the Lao PDR believes that with strong political will and renewed commitment, we can advance the global disarmament and non-proliferation agenda. We stand ready to engage constructively in the work of the First Committee in pursuit of our shared vision for a peaceful and secure world. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Lao People's Democratic Republic. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Greece. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Vice Chair. Allow me to congratulate you and the Bureau on your election. You can count on Greece's full support in steering the work of the First Committee during this landmark 80th session. We also express our appreciation to Ambassador Maritza Tzanova Valverde of Costa Rica for her skillful leadership of last year's session. Greece aligns fully with the statement delivered by the European Union and wishes to add the following remarks in its national capacity. As the United Nations celebrates its 80th anniversary, the international legal order based on international law and the UN Charter is under severe strain. For nearly four years, Europe has endured its most devastating conflict since World War II. Greece continues to condemn Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and supports all efforts to bring it to a just and lasting end. We welcome the recent US-led peace initiative and urge Russia to engage in good faith negotiations. We also welcome the historic agreement reached between Israel and Hamas on the first phase of the Gaza peace plan, leading to a ceasefire, increased humanitarian assistance, and the release of hostages. Greece remains deeply concerned by ongoing humanitarian crisis and grave human rights violations in Sudan, the Sahel, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Yemen, and elsewhere. Mr. Vice Chair, the international community must uphold and strengthen the global disarmament and non-proliferation architecture, which faces both traditional and emerging challenges. Persistent obstruction by certain states continues to paralyze key mechanisms of the disarmament machinery. As a non-permanent member of the Security Council, Greece is firmly committed to safeguarding and advancing this architecture. We reaffirm our unwavering support for the Treaty of the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the cornerstone of global disarmament and non-proliferation. The preservation and universalization of the NPT, a balanced approach to its three pillars, and genuine dialogue between nuclear and non-nuclear states should guide our work towards the 11th review conference. We commend the International Atomic Energy Agency for its impartial efforts to ensure compliance with safeguards agreements and the additional protocol, and we support universal adherence to both. A key step toward nuclear disarmament would be the entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. Greece calls on all states that have not yet done so to ratify it and maintain a moratorium on nuclear test explosions. We also urge the early commencement of negotiations on the Fissile Material Cutoff Treaty and dialogue on the successor to New START. Greece continues to support the effective implementation of Security Council Resolution 1540. As Vice-Chair of the 1540 Committee, we focus on preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery means to non-state actors, including terrorists. We remain concerned about Iran's nuclear program and call on Iran to fulfill its legal obligations under the NPT and cooperate fully with the IAEA. As chair of the sanctions committee established under resolution 1718, Greece is committed to upholding the sanctions regime on the DPRK as an essential tool to constrain its WMD and ballistic missile programs. We are ready to work with all partners toward the complete verifiable and irreversible denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. It is imperative to strengthen multilateral instruments prohibiting chemical and biological weapons. Greece supports the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in carrying out its mandate impartially and professionally and encourages full cooperation to resolve all outstanding issues related to Syria's chemical weapons file. Greece remains a strong supporter of key conventional arms control instruments, including the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, the Arms Trade Treaty, and the UN Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons. We also welcome the establishment of the global framework on through-life conventional ammunition management aimed at preventing diversion and unintended explosions. Mr. Vice Chair, the digital transformation has brought immense opportunities for growth, inclusion, and sustainable development, but also unprecedented security risks. Malicious behavior in cyberspace has intensified, including attacks targeting critical infrastructure and becoming part of armed conflict operations. We must respond collectively by implementing the UN framework for responsible state behavior in cyberspace. Greece welcomes the consensus final report of the open-ended working group and the establishment of the global mechanism on developments in the field of ICTs. We remain committed to an open, secure, and peaceful cyberspace governed by international law and look forward to advancing responsible state behavior under the new global mechanism. The peaceful use of emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence, offers great promise but also serious risk of miscalculation and misuse. Greece advocates for a human-centric AI agenda based on transparency, ethics, and accountability. In April, Greece convened a Security Council ARIA formula meeting on harnessing safe, inclusive, and trustworthy AI for international peace and security. We welcome the Secretary General's report on AI in the military domain and support the forthcoming first committee resolution on this issue. We also stress the urgency of progress on lethal autonomous weapons systems within the CCW framework and the group of governmental experts and reiterate that the peaceful use of outer space must prevail over any militarization. In the spirit of the UNAD initiative, revitalizing the disarmament machinery is more urgent than ever. Greece supports practical proposals to improve the efficiency of the first committee, including rationalising debate time and modernising its structure. We believe the time has come to adjust the current cluster system, reflecting decades old realities, by dedicating a standalone cluster to emerging technologies. Mr. Vice-Chair, Greece remains resolute in its commitment to uphold and strengthen the global disarmament and non-proliferation regime. Only by reinforcing trust in international law and revitalizing multilateralism can we move closer to our shared vision of general and complete disarmament. I thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Let me begin by extending my delegation's warm congratulation to you and other members of the Bureau on your election to guide the work of the committee. We are confident that under your able leadership, our deliberations will be both productive and impactful. Please be assured of the full support and cooperation of my delegation throughout the course of the committee work. I also express my delegation's appreciation to Ambassador Marisa Chan Valverde for her able and skillful leadership during the 69th session. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Republic of Uganda on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement and the Republic of Guinea-Bissau on behalf of the African Group, respectively. Mr. Chairman, the current global security landscape is mired into complex challenges, which pose serious threat to international peace and security. The fact that the International Committee fails to make concrete progress on disarmament makes our collective task of ensuring international security difficult. Today we witness the threat of nuclear weapons intensified at a breath and continued modernization and stockpiling of weapons of mass destruction, including conventional weapons. We all agree the only way to curb these challenges is by committing to the full implementation of all relevant international treaties and conventions. It should be our collective responsibility to make sure that the disarmament machinery does in fact work by restoring its credibility and effectiveness. Conference on disarmament is and should remain the single multilateral negotiating forum for disarmament. In this regard, we urge for renewed political will and commitment to overcome the deadlock that has long hindered CD substantive work. Ethiopia also believes that continued discussion between nuclear and non-nuclear weapon states must be strengthened to accelerate progress in our collective efforts to realize a nuclear free world. We must therefore strive in our endeavor to achieve successful outcome at the next year NPT review conference. As a state party to the African Nuclear Weapon Free Zone Treaty, Ethiopia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the treaty and work with all to ensure a region free of nuclear weapons and use nuclear science and technology for peaceful purpose to promote our continent's socioeconomic development. Mr. Chairman, peaceful use of outer space is critical for future of humanity and to ensure sustainable development. Ethiopia therefore underscores the need to excel in our effort to harness outer space for the benefit of humanity and work to prevent arm race in outer space. through the establishment of a legally binding instrument. This should be done by reinforcing existing international legal framework in accordance with the United Nations treaty governing outer space activities. We also call on the United Nations to enhance its effort to ensure that the necessary support, particularly to African countries, is made available to enable them develop their capacity in space science and technology. In the same vein, we should not fall short in our collective efforts of strengthening transparency and confidence building measures and ensure equitable access to the space technologies, particularly by developing countries. We also believe by harnessing emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence within the globally agreed frameworks, we can make effective use of innovation to ensure sustainable peace, equity, and development. In conclusion, Mr. Chairman, EITI PRI affirms its steadfast commitment to fulfilling its international treaty obligations and to contributing constructively to the deliberations of this committee. We remain hopeful that this session will yield concrete progress in advancing global peace and security. for present and future generations. I thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. Vice Chair, on behalf of my delegation. I warmly congratulate you on your election. to the Bureau of this first committee, and we assure you and the Bureau of our full support as we carry on our work. My delegation welcomes the report of the Secretary-General of the United Nations on the various agenda items relating to disarmament and international security. Haiti aligns itself with these statements made by Belize on behalf of CARICOM and Indonesia on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. We would like to add our voice, the voice of a country facing an unprecedented security crisis fueled by the unchecked proliferation of illicit weapons, weak international controls, and the rise of transnational organized crime. The Republic of Haiti reaffirms its commitment to the NPT. We call for its comprehensive implementation. We commend progress made with regard to the TPNW and support multilateral, transparent, irreversible and verifiable disarmament. Similarly, we call for the immediate entry into effect of the CTBT. Mr. Vice Chair, despite significant progress made with regard to the program of action on SALW and its international tracing instrument, the Arms Trade Treaty, the global framework on the management of conventional ammunition, as well as regional relationships such as the Roadmap of the Caribbean for 2030, as well as efforts to combat illicit trafficking in SALW, Our efforts remain confronted by persistent challenges. The security crisis that has been raging in Haiti has been putting the effectiveness of these instruments to the test. Despite their existence, we continue to stand helplessly by as we see an unchecked proliferation of SALW in the region and our country in particular. This constant inflow of illicit weapons runs counter to both the spirit and the letter of the international instruments that we have adopted together. To this end, we call for heightened support for national capacity building, especially when it comes to traceability, collection and destruction of SALW, and the implementation of recommendations from the SG's report. That is paragraph 100V of resolution 79/54 of the General Assembly on the global framework for conventional munitions management throughout their life cycle. Rigorous and universal application of the ATT, strengthen regional cooperation based on information sharing, operational coordination and technical assistance. We commend the efforts made by UNODC, UNLIREC and CARICOM IMPACS, especially their pivotal support to the Haitian security forces. Haiti remains strongly committed to the implementation of its National Action Plan and will continue to work together with its partners to build lasting peace and shared security throughout the region. Haiti is troubled by the risks posed by emerging military technology, especially lethal autonomous weapon systems. AI in the military field and cyber threats. These threats compromise peace, security and international law, especially for the most vulnerable states. Haiti reaffirms its commitment to ethical and human disarmament. We also would like to underscore the importance of equitable participation by countries, developing countries, when it comes to governance of these technologies in accordance with the UN Charter and Resolution 79/1. We also reaffirm our commitment to promoting nuclear weapons free zones, which are a crucial pillar of regional and global stability. Haiti remains fully committed to the Tlatelolco Treaty, which has been in effect since 1975, and we support efforts to establish a similar zone in the Middle East in accordance with resolution 73/546. The Republic of Haiti remains convinced that only that lasting disarmament can only be achieved through a collective, inclusive approach that is based on international solidarity. We support initiatives that promote the participation of young people and gender equality. These human dimensions are crucial for building a truly lasting peace that is centred on human dignity. Mr Vice-Chair, the agenda of this committee ought to serve as a real roadmap for our collective security. Therefore, Haiti calls for focusing on the following points: 99Q, combating illicit trafficking of small arms; 99O, assistance to States in their collection and destruction; and the implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty. These measures are directly linked to the daily reality. lived by the Haitian people. It is time to move from commitments to actions and to translate our resolutions into tangible, coordinated, ambitious action. In closing, the Republic of Haiti reaffirms that disarmament is a necessary prerequisite for a lasting peace, the resilience of fragile states, and respect for human dignity. We remain firmly committed to working with all Member States to transform norms into tangible reality in the spirit of the UN Charter and for the benefit of current and future generations. Let's make disarmament not a faraway goal but a concrete reality. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Haiti for her statement. Merci beaucoup. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Maldives. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. I congratulate you and the Bureau on your election. You have full support and cooperation of Maldives in the work of the Committee. The Maldives aligns itself with the statement delivered by Uganda on behalf of NAM. We are witnessing a reversal in disarmament. Key treaties are weakening, arsenals are expanding with new technologies, rising tensions are eroding trust and dialogue. while military budgets reach record levels and divert resources from people's most basic needs. Disarmament is not a choice, it's a responsibility. We must restore trust, new dialogue, and redirect resources from weapons to development. To that end, action is needed on three fronts. First, recommit to nuclear disarmament. Withdrawal of arms control treaties at a time when nuclear weapons grow more powerful, precise and accessible are deeply alarming. Such actions unravel decades of progress and push the world closer to instability. We urge nuclear-armed states to renew dialogue and recommit to disarmament treaties, starting with ratifying the CTBT and adopting no-first-use policies. They must present clear, transparent and time-bound plans to eliminate nuclear stockpiles. Every delay carries a price, one that could cost innocent lives and the very foundation of peace. While nuclear-armed states must lead, all Treaty Parties share responsibility to uphold commitment and ensure accountability. The Maldives fulfills its obligation by ratifying key treaties and enacting national laws. We also call for urgent action to address the environmental dangers of nuclear waste transport and disposal. For island states where healthy oceans are lifelines, this threat is existential. Together, we must ensure the 2026 review conference of the parties to the non-proliferation treaty delivers measurable outcome. Second, Regulate emerging technologies. The arms race has moved beyond land, sea, and air into the cyberspace and outer space. Emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and autonomous weapons systems, are advancing faster than the framework to govern them. Unchecked, they could transform warfare and erode humanitarian legal and ethical boundaries. Israel's genocide in Gaza shows what is at stake. AI-enabled targeting systems have reportedly been used against civilians, blurring lines between surveillance and warfare, and accelerating decisions with limited human oversight. We must close the governance gap through inclusive, transparent, and binding rules that ensure accountability, prevent misuse, and promote responsible innovations. Technology must serve humanity, saving lives, advancing health, creating opportunities. That is why the Maldives joins the International Atomic Energy Agency, believing in nuclear science for peaceful purpose, including cancer treatment. Third, rebalancing spending from weapons to development. Last year, more than 100 countries increased defense spending. Global military expenditure reaches $2.7 trillion. The Secretary General's report on disarmament warns that if current trend continues, it will rise to $6.6 trillion by 2035. Redirecting even a fraction of this would transform lives. $93 million a year, less than 4% of military expenditure, could end hunger by 2030 in low income countries. $5 trillion could fund 12 years of quality education for every child in these countries. The challenge before us is not a shortage of means, but a shortage of moral clarity. Redirecting resources from military spending towards sustainable development is essential to getting this SDG back on track. For SEEDS, fair and affordable access to finance is the difference between debt and development, between fragility and resilience. When resources, instead of weapons, flows to people, the world becomes safer. The Maldives remains committed to work with partners to strengthen counter proliferation efforts and uphold the rule of law. Our collective security cannot rest on weapons. It must rest on trust, built through dialogue, cooperation and respect for binding commitments. I thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I congratulate you and the other members of the Bureau on your election and assure you of my delegation's full support throughout this session. Liberia aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the African Group. and I make the following remarks in my national capacity. Indeed, the first committee General Assembly remains a vital global platform where we converge annually to discuss and reaffirm our shared commitment to peace, security, and human rights. This year, we convene at a time when the world stands at the edge of a dangerous height with rising geopolitical rivalries, armed conflicts, human rights violations, and blatant disregard for our multilateral system. Liberia underscores the significance of the United Nations disarmament machinery as the driving force of the multilateral disarmament architecture emphasizing renewed commitment to the multilateral system and initiatives guided by our collective pursuit of lasting peace and security. Liberia's stance on nuclear disarmament remains unchanged. It is inspired by that which unite us as a people with a common objective, the preservation of humanity, and the protection of our one world. While the persistent failure of the United Nations Disarmament Commission to reach consensus on recommendations for the total elimination of nuclear weapons remains a matter of grave concern, the Commission's determination in sustaining structured dialogue and the willingness of states to remain engaged is crucial. We share the view that the total elimination of nuclear weapons is the only assurance against their proliferation, use, or threat of use. In so doing, we reaffirm our commitment to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, the Humanitarian Pledge for the Prohibition and Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, among many. We recognize the essential role of the International Atomic Energy Agency, which seeks to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons through verification and safeguards. ensuring that such use do not serve military purposes. Since 1962, Liberia has remained a proud member of the IAEA, and we therefore encourage member states to deepen cooperation and promote the work of the agency. As a post-war country, Liberia is inclined to speak to the devastating effects of the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons. Their proliferation and illegal sales continue to destabilize many regions of the world, especially in Africa. We therefore attach great importance to the full implementation of the Global Arms Trade Treaty, the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons, and the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its aspects. We welcome the report, as well as the outcome document adopted by consensus at the fourth United Nations Conference to review progress made in the implementation of the POA, held on June 28, 2014, in this city. Chair, I am proud to inform that Liberia has made significant progress by domesticating these instruments, international law, and establishing the Liberia National Commission on Arms to oversee their implementation. Despite the progress Liberia has made in these areas and other international and on other international instruments, challenges persist, emphasizing the critical need for sustained international cooperation and assistance. We call for enhanced partnership, predictable funding, and technological transfer to support the implementation of these crucial international commitments. Similarly, LIBREA welcomes the adoption of the global framework for through life convention, ammunition management, recognizing it as a critical step toward preventing the risks associated with the diversion of conventional ammunition of all types and the potential threats to peace, security, and sustainable development. Liberia welcomes the report of the preparatory meeting of states held in June of this year and believes that the recommendation as contained in the report set the foundation for governance, oversight, and continued engagement on ammunition management. International cooperation, technical support, and capacity building are essential tools for the implementation of this framework. Mr. Chair, like many delegation in this room, Liberia is deeply concerned over the rapid increase of malicious ICT activities and the ripple effects on global peace and security. We welcome the progress made under the open-ended working group on ICTs in response to address malicious ICT operations. As the OEWG transitions into a permanent working mechanism, Liberia stands ready in support of initiatives that will enhance discussions on possible cooperative measures to address these threats in cyberspace. The mechanism must build on the work done by previous institutional arrangements while emphasizing human rights to bridging the capacity gap for developing countries. To this end, we wish to emphasize that disarmament remains inseparable from our national development agenda. My delegation stands ready to constructively work with all delegations to advance the goals of the Fifth Committee and of the first committee and encourages sustained diplomatic dialogue for the attainment of global peace, security and development. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Liberia for his statement. And I now give the floor to distinguished representative of Brunei Darussalam. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. First and foremost, Brunei Darussalam align itself with the statements delivered by Malaysia on behalf of ASEAN and Uganda on behalf of DAM. Mr. Chair, the theme for UNGA this year, Better Together, 80 Years and More for Peace, Development and Human Rights, highlights our shared responsibility to uphold the founding principles of the UN and the need for multilateral cooperation to address global challenges. In this context, the first committee's role remains indispensable as disarmament is central to global peace, security, sustainable development and human rights. The continued use and proliferation of weaponry fuel humanitarian crisis and deepen inequalities, making it essential to uphold a rules based international order and promote inclusivity, solidarity and collective action towards disarmament. For Brunei Darussalam, multilateralism is key to advancing disarmament and non-proliferation. We view the UN as the principal forum for strengthening universal norms and commend the First Committee's work in fostering cooperation towards a peaceful, secure and rules-based world. Mr. Chair, at the international level, Brunei Darussalam is committed to the international treaties and conventions which we are a party to or committed to, including the Treaty on Nuclear Non-Proliferation, Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, CTBT, CWC, BWC, and Anti-Personal Landmines Convention. We reaffirm the NPT as the cornerstone of the global nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation regime, as well as the peaceful use of nuclear energy. In this regard, we look forward to a constructive and results-oriented 11th Review Conference in 2026, one that delivers meaningful progress and fully support the nomination of Vietnam as its president. At the regional level, we underline the importance of nuclear weapon-free zones in strengthening security, building trust, and moving us closer to a nuclear weapon-free world. We call for the preservation and strengthening of all existing nuclear weapon-free zones and reiterate the urgent need for the establishment of such a zone in the Middle East. Brunei Darussalam also remains firmly committed to maintaining Southeast Asia free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction as enshrined in the ASEAN Charter and the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon Free Zone. In this regard, we look forward to your support of the biennial CHNPF resolution tabled by ASEAN this year. Beyond advancing disarmament and non-proliferation, Brunei Darussalam emphasizes the importance of ensuring the peaceful, safe, and secure use of nuclear energy. This conviction guides our active participation in strengthening regional nuclear safety and security frameworks. Building on this commitment, Brunei Darussalam is honored to participate in the rollout of the Regulatory Infrastructure Development Program, RIDP for the Asia Pacific, launched in December last year, which will enhance regulatory infrastructure for radiation safety and nuclear security across our region. Through the RIDP, Brunei Darussalam will launch the Advisory Mission on Regulatory Infrastructure for Radiation Safety and Nuclear Security this December. We have also sought additional support mechanisms by joining both the Asia Pacific Safeguards Network and the Asian Nuclear Safety Network. Collectively, these milestones reinforce our ambition of advancing towards greater alignment with more international obligations in the near future. Mr. Chair, recognizing the rapid and transnational advancements in AI, Brunei Darussalam acknowledges its immense potential in enhancing defense modernization, operational efficiency, and strategic capabilities. At the same time, these technologies pose risks like misuse in autonomous weapons, algorithmic biases, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, underscoring the need for human oversight and responsible governance. In this regard, Brunei Darussalam stresses the vital role of multilateral cooperation to ensure AI is applied responsibly and ethically, thereby contributing to peace, security, and the safeguarding of human dignity. Just as with weapons of mass destruction, AI-enabled weapon systems pose serious humanitarian consequences requiring collective vigilance and proactive measures to protect humanity. Brunei Darussalam therefore welcomes international efforts, including relevant UN resolutions aimed at ensuring the safe and ethical development of AI in military applications. This aligns with the joint statement by the ASEAN Defense Ministers on cooperation in the field of AI in the defense sector adopted in Malaysia this year, reflecting our shared commitment to strengthening regional frameworks for the responsible use of AI technologies in defense. In the same vein, it is equally important to acknowledge that the success of disarmament and peacebuilding efforts hinges on the effective implementation of confidence building measures. These measures are instrumental in advancing our shared vision of peace, inclusive development, and the safeguarding of human dignity. Brunei Darussalam strongly supports elevating the role of CBMs that emphasize openness and promote direct engagement to build trust, prevent conflict, and strengthen cooperation from local communities to the global arena. Mr. Chair, Brunei Darussalam would also like to take this opportunity to welcome the report of the OEWG on security of and in the use of ICTs 2021 to 2025, in particular, the establishment of a new global mechanism on developments in the field of ICTs in the context of international security and advancing responsible state behavior in the use of ICTs to further safeguard the peace and security of the domain. We commend Singapore's leadership as chair of the OEWG and look forward to the launch of the global mechanism. Brunei Darussalam underscores the continued importance of international cooperation and capacity building in ICTs and enabling states, especially developing countries, to effectively address evolving threats in cyberspace. In closing, Mr. Chair, as we reflect on the UN's 80 years of commitment to peace, development, and human rights, we reaffirm our collective resolve to strengthen multilateralism and cooperation. The challenges confronting the world today demand unity of purpose and sustained commitment from all nations. In this spirit, Brunei Darussalam stands ready to work with the international community to advance these objectives, promoting peace, security and sustainable development through multilateral cooperation and the full observance of international law. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Brunei Darussalam. I now give the floor to His Excellency, the Permanent Representative of Thailand. Excellency, you have the floor.

Mr. Chair, I'd like to express Thailand's congratulations to you and other members of the Bureau on your election. We are fully committed to supporting a successful outcome for the 80th session. Thailand aligns itself with the statement delivered by Indonesia on behalf of NAM and by Malaysia on behalf of ASEAN. Today, the first committee's role is more vital than ever, escalating geopolitical tensions, deepening mistrust among nations, and the erosion of key disarmament and arms control commitments are undermining global security. In this environment, our collective efforts must be bold, determined, and unwavering to rebuild trust and uphold the rules-based international order. This year's theme, Better Together, reminds us that multilateralism is not optional, it is essential. We must renew our political will to rebuild trust and revitalize global governance for a more peaceful and secure world with the United Nations at its core. Mr. Chair, for 80 years, Thailand's position has been clear and consistent. We are fully committed to upholding international peace and security. We have consistently championed disarmament and non-proliferation, grounded in the belief that a world free of weapons of mass destruction is a shared global responsibility. Yet today, the credibility of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the cornerstone of the disarmament and non-proliferation regime, is under serious strain. Continue stockpiling and modernization of nuclear arsenals, rising proliferation risk, and the repeated failure of the past review conferences have stalled progress and shattered confidence. These trends must not be normalized. The NPT review process needs to be revitalized with greater transparency and accountability. The 2026 review conference must not fail. must deliver concrete forward-looking outcome. Efforts must be made in all other disarmament and non-proliferation frameworks to complement the goals of the NPT. The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons is gaining momentum. At its fifth year in force, the treaty provides its value as a catalyst for disarmament and of course, in complimentary to the NPT, mutually reinforcing the broadest disarmament and non-proliferation architecture. Next year also marks the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. It is regrettable that the treaty has yet to enter into force. Thailand strongly urges all remaining annexed two states to sign and ratify it without further delay. Nuclear weapon free zones are essential building blocks for a world free of nuclear weapons. As the depositary state of the Treaty on Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapons Free Zone, Thailand welcomes Timor-Leste's accession and reaffirms its commitment to continuously engaging all nuclear weapons states to sign and ratify the protocol to the treaty, solidifying security assurances in our region. Mr. Chair, weapons of mass destruction in all forms pose a grave threat to humanity. Thailand has stood firm in our commitment to the Chemical Weapons Convention. We condemn the use of chemical weapons anywhere by anyone under any circumstances. Thailand strongly supports the strengthening of the Biological Weapons Convention, particularly efforts to enhance compliance and verification. And as a friend of the Chair for national implementation measures, we encourage constructive dialogue amongst the parties to reach an agreeable solution. One that ensures that the convention can effectively fulfill its purpose of maintaining international peace and security. Mr. Chair, the human cost of small arms and light weapons underscores the urgent need to tackle their illicit trade and misuse. While states have the right to self-defense under UN charter, they also carry a primary responsibility to uphold arms control commitments. Thailand encourages practical dialogue within the open-ended technical expert group to address technological challenges relating to tracing and marking of small arms under the Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons and the International Tracing Instrument. We also support the Global Framework for Through-Life Conventional Ammunition Management, which guides States in managing ammunition stockpiles safely, securely, and sustainably. Thailand is fully committed to its obligations under the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention. Despite challenges in accessing certain areas, we have cleared over 99.5% of mine-contaminated land. As my foreign minister addressed the General Assembly during the high-level week, These efforts go beyond treaty obligations. It is about restoring safety, livelihoods, and dignity to affected communities. It is about saving lives, upholding human dignity, and supporting mine victims in their recovery and reintegration. We firmly and strongly condemn any use of anti-personnel mines, which cause indiscriminate suffering, and run counter to the core principles of the APMBC and international humanitarian law. By joining the Secretary-General's global advocacy campaign on humanitarian disarmament and mine action, Thailand reaffirms its commitment to advancing humanitarian demining and contributing to our Chair's vision of a mine-free world. Mr. Chair, The weaponization of outer space must be prevented at all costs. Thailand supports the work of the open-ended working group on the prevention of arms race in outer space and encourages our party to demonstrate the necessity, flexibility to achieve consensus on this critical issue, ensuring that outer space remains the domain for the common benefit of all mankind. The cyberspace domain underpinning global critical infrastructure and communications is an integral part to international security. Thailand reaffirms its commitment to international law applicable in cyberspace and the norms of responsible state behavior. We stand ready to work with all parties under the global mechanism to foster common understanding and cooperation. Mr. Chair, To conclude, trust, mutual respect and political will are the very foundation of international peace and security. Only through genuine dialogue and collective action can we overcome the current impasse and advance our shared goals for disarmament and a more secure world. Thank you very much for your kind attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of Thailand for his statement. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Rwanda. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. At the outset, my delegation warmly congratulates you and the members of the Bureau on your election, and we assure you of our continued full support. Rwanda aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of NAM and the African Group, and would like to make the following remarks in our national capacity. Mr. Chair, as we mark the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, We are reminded of the enduring value of multilateralism and the collective aspiration for peace, security, and the human dignity that inspired the founding of this organization. Yet this significant milestone comes at a time of growing global uncertainty. Conflicts persist in many regions, trust among states is eroding, and the global disarmament and non-proliferation architecture is under increasing strain. In parallel, the rapid pace of emerging technologies is introducing new and complex challenges to international peace and security, challenges that were difficult to foresee eight decades ago. In this context, Rwanda welcomes the recent adoption of the Pact for the Future as a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to revitalization of a global disarmament agenda. We underscore the need for the first committee to evolve honoring its legacy while enhancing its relevance in addressing today's complex security challenges. This requires moving toward renewed action and progress that is inclusive, forward-looking, and grounded in consensus. A more adaptive, coordinated, and result-oriented approach rooted in the principles of the UN Charter is essential to deliver meaningful progress. Mr. Chair, the total elimination of nuclear weapons remains the only absolute guarantee against their use or threat of use. Rwanda remains firmly committed to nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and the full implementation of the Treaty of Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. However, the continued modernization of nuclear arsenals and the lack of concrete progress under Article VI risk undermining the treaty's legitimacy. If disarmament remains only an aspiration and not an actionable goal, we risk undermining one of the cornerstones of our collective security architecture. Nuclear weapon free zones have played a vital role in advancing disarmament and non-proliferation objectives. They demonstrate how regional commitments can serve global goals. In this regard, Rwanda reaffirms its unwavering support for the Treaty of Pelindaba, which establishes Africa as a nuclear weapon free zone. This treaty not only prohibits the development, acquisition, and testing of nuclear weapons on the continent, but also embodies Africa's collective aspiration for peace and security. Mr. Chair, disarmament must be understood not only as a matter of state security, but also as a pressing humanitarian imperative. Detonation of an even single nuclear weapon, whether intentional, accidental, or due to miscalculation, would have devastating and irreversible consequences for human life, public health, the environment, and the global economy. Such impacts will transcend borders and generation for exceeding the response of any single nation or international body. Considering this risk, we underscore the urgent need to reinvigorate the global disarmament efforts. As we approach the 2026 NPT review conference, we call on all state parties to reaffirm their commitments through concrete actions. This includes ensuring balanced, measurable progress across all three pillars of the treaty, disarmament and proliferation and the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The review conference must remain inclusive, transparent, firmly guided by the shared goal of a free world of nuclear weapons. Mr. Chair, we also equally reaffirm the inalienable right of all states to develop and use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes in line with Article 4 of the NPT. We commend the International Atomic Energy Agency through its continued technical support and cooperation, as well as maximizing the use of science and technology for socioeconomic development, especially in the fields of health, energy, and agriculture. Rwanda also supports initiatives such as the Rays of Hope program, which helps bridge the gap in access to life-saving nuclear applications in developing countries. Mr. Chair, Rwanda also welcomes the past strong call for the total elimination of nuclear weapons, the strengthening of arms control and non-proliferation regimes, and the prevention of an arms race in outer space. We also commend the focus on addressing the risks posed by emerging technologies and curbing the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, which continue to destabilize communities, particularly in our regions. Rwanda believes that meaningful progress on disarmament is inseparable from sustainable development and global stability. and we therefore urge all member states to translate these renewed commitments into concrete action that builds trust upholds international law and secures a peaceful future for all in this regard we commend the ongoing efforts of the conference on disarmament and the United Nations on Commission we note with appreciation the substantive session of the undc and also reaffirm full support to the Commission's work and stress the importance of renewed political will, while avoiding the creation of parallel or duplicative tracks to ensure that the current cycle delivers concrete and meaningful outcomes to advance the global disarmament and non-proliferation agenda. In this context, we also welcome the successful conclusion of the OEWG and commend the spirit of consensus and cooperation that shaped its outcome. We look forward to the establishment of the global mechanism in 2026 and the launch of its thematic working groups, which will provide a critical and inclusive platform for continued dialogue and implementation. Mr. Chair, we also would like to highlight the importance of the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, which continues to pose a significant threat to peace and stability, particularly in Africa. The unregulated flow of these weapons fuel conflict, as it spreads security and undermines the development efforts. Thus, we also emphasize the need to address the involvement of United States actors in both these illicit arms trades and the potential of proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. This risk of weapons falling to the hands of terrorists remains a real and present danger, and we must remain vigilant in implementing relevant Security Council resolutions, including Resolution 1540. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, Rwanda reaffirms its strong support for the work of the first committee and our firm commitment to the global disarmament and non-proliferation agenda. Let us not only reflect on our achievements, but act with renewed purpose and unity to meet the challenges ahead and ensure that our institutions, treaties, and political commitments rise to the scale of the moment and to the hopes of the people we serve. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Rwanda for her statement. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Niger.

You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr Vice Chair. At the outset, on behalf of the delegation of Niger, please allow me to extend our congratulations to you upon your election to head up the work of the first committee. We assure you of our full cooperation in the discharging of your mandate. My delegation fully aligns itself with the statements made by the Non-Aligned Movement and by the African Group. Niger reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the values of international peace and security and sustainable development, which are the pillars of the full and general disarmament regime. We therefore remain convinced that it is only multilateralism, based on dialogue and mutual confidence and trust and the respect for international law, that we will be able to achieve these common goals. As for conventional weapons, Niger remains profoundly concerned by the proliferation and illicit circulation of small arms and light weapons that continue to feed conflicts, to increase insecurity and to compromise development efforts in many regions of the world, especially in the Sahel. Aware therefore of these challenges, my country has actively participated alongside Member States and under the auspices of the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs in the work of the fourth UN review conference on progress made in the implementation of the programme of action to prevent combat and eradicate the illicit trade in SALW in all their aspects that took place in New York from the 18th to 28th of June 2024. Niger has aligned with the initiatives and recommendations of this conference and made them our own and are focused on implementing them effectively by strengthening capacities in terms of control, oversight, traceability and the management of weapons stocks. We call upon all states to ramp up their efforts to ensure the full implementation of the programme of action and the international tracing instrument for SALW, whilst underscoring the importance of cooperation, technical assistance and international financial support to enable developing countries to overcome this challenge. Chairman, in the area of ICTs, Niger applauds multilateral efforts undertaken in this sector. The security stakes here cannot be disassociated from international peace and stability. My delegation applauds To this end, the delivery of the work of the OEWG on security and the use of ICTs of 2021 to 2025 and the report from these negotiations, this report adopted by consensus as a major step forward towards the consolidation of, uh, an evolving framework for the responsible behavior of states in cyberspace. It also brings across a collective will of the international community to promote an open digital environment that is stable, peaceful, and accessible to all. We also welcome the results obtained. in this regard, especially when it comes to capacity building and CBMs and cooperation between states, aware of the fact that there are challenges linked to the malicious use of ICTs, and our country has therefore undertaken efforts to strengthen resilience of our critical infrastructure, to improve governments and cybersecurity, and to develop national skills, especially those of youth, women, and in digital professions. Niger is also actively participating in regional and international initiatives seeking to prevent cyber threats and to ensure a peaceful and secure use of ICTs in line with the principles of the UN charter. It's in this spirit that we applaud and support the position of the African group on the application of international law to cyberspace and invite states. or a group of states who have not yet submitted a position to make their contributions for a better understanding of this new perspective that seeks to facilitate the work of the future global mechanism on security and the use of ICTs. This permanent mechanism is inclusive and in our view is a major step forward towards the consolidation of multilateral cyberspace. for lasting dialogue, cooperation and capacity building in terms of cybersecurity and will enable us to ensure continuity of intergovernmental discussions to follow up on the implementation of norms of responsible state behavior in cyberspace and to strengthen the participation of developing countries and global governments for ICTs and security. As for nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction, my delegation reaffirms the constant position of Niger, according to which their use whatever circumstances would have humanitarian, environmental and security consequences that would be catastrophic, we remain firmly committed to the achieving a world free of nuclear weapons. Our country continues to implement obligations under the NPT and we strongly believe that nuclear weapons states must act under Article 6 of the NPT and to adopt courageous, transparent and verifiable measures in order to eliminate their nuclear arsenals that loom over humanity like a Damocles sword. We reaffirm the imprescriptible obligation of nuclear weapons states to abstain from any transfer, whether direct or indirect, of these weapons or of any nuclear explosive device, as well as any related and to also engage in any related control. In line with Article 1 of the Treaty, they must prohibit all forms of insistence, encouragement or incitation to manufacture or acquire such weapons by non-nuclear weapon States. At the same time, we underscore the obligation of non-nuclear weapon States under Article 2 to refuse any transfer, whether direct or indirect, and to renounce their manufacturing or acquisition and to not request or accept any foreign support to this end. We also welcome the efforts of the IAEA to optimize the efficacy and efficiency of its safeguards regime and urge states to cooperate fully with them. It's in this spirit that Niger is cooperating transparently and proactively with the IAEA in line with our international obligations in order to promote Rigorous and peaceful nuclear governance to this end, we recall the visit of the director general of the IAEA in March 2025 to Nishan and the inspection of uranium storage and production sites, which in our view is concrete proof of our preparedness to engage in transparency and cooperation. and proof of the safety of radioactive material and security of them in their use. We reaffirm our inalienable right to nuclear technology, peaceful nuclear technology, and also given the challenges of acute water shortages caused by climate change, our country is using isotopic hydrology, which is an innovative nuclear technique supported by the IAEA. Thanks to this partnership, We have a national laboratory, thanks to international partnerships on water that's been set up, as well as modernization of seven other sites. Our country is also investing actively in improving healthcare through a national oncology center and a radiotherapy center engaged in with support thanks to the Ray of Hope initiative, the IAEA. Finally, Chairman, my delegation reiterates its unwavering commitment to multilateralism, to transparency, and to international cooperation as the cornerstones of complete and general disarmament. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Niger for his statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency, the Deputy Permanent Representative of Israel. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Two days ago, on October 7th, 2023, Israel suffered the bloodiest massacre since its establishment. Since that morning, Israel has been fighting to defend itself so that October 7th will not be repeated. Israel joined President Trump's peace plan to end the war in Gaza, release all the hostages, dismantle Hamas's capabilities, and ensure that Gaza will never again pose a threat to Israel. Chair, these days are meaningful and emotional for all Israelis. With beating hearts and tearful eyes, we welcome the hostages back home after the two years they were held in Hamas's dungeons in Gaza. the return of the hostages, the ones alive and the ones that are unfortunately dead will not heal the pain our nation has suffered. But for two years this was a task of the highest moral value for all of us and the return serves now as a ray of hope. We will not rest until all of them are finally back. 21 families are still unable to bring their loved ones home for burial. Chair, alongside the war in Gaza, Israel has been challenged on six additional fronts by enemies that seek its destruction. The common denominator is the Islamic Republic of Iran, which orchestrates this multi-front attack with a single aim, the annihilation of Israel. Chair, it is evident more than ever before that compliance with states' commitments to non-proliferation obligations is at a historical low, a phenomenon that severely erodes the bedrock of arms control frameworks. Worryingly, it seems that the international community is willing to accept the existence of systematic non-compliance by such actors. Over the years, Iran has repeatedly violated its international commitments and obligations. This rogue behavior has been detailed in many reports by the United Nations and the IAEA. Most recently, this has been portrayed by the IAEA Board of Governors resolutions as the one adopted on June 12, 2025, finding Iranian noncompliance. clearly Iran has been violating its safeguards obligations related to undeclared nuclear material and nuclear activity, and with regard to activity and operations in various undeclared sites. It is in violation of the comprehensive safeguards agreement it has signed with the IAEA, an agreement that is part of the NPT obligations. Iran's behavior illustrates a sustained and deliberate policy of noncompliance. chair Israel conducted operation Rising line in June 2025 in order to neutralize the existential and imminent threat posed by the Iranian regime's military nuclear program as well as a threat posed by its ballistic missiles program and other military activities against Israel the operation was a measure of last resort prompted by critical developments in Iran's nuclear weapons Endeavor and was required in order to thwart the threat of imminent Iranian attacks that would risk Israel's security It was the last window of opportunity to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and took place after ongoing diplomatic efforts unfortunately proved ineffective. Let us be clear, an Iran with nuclear weapons is a threat not only to Israel but to the world. This has become even more evident with the reinstatement of the United Nations Security Council sanctions on Iran in response to its ongoing violations, especially regarding its military nuclear program. Israel will continue to do whatever is necessary to stop Iran from achieving nuclear weapons, and the international community must remain vigilant and use every tool at its disposal. Chair, Israel continues to support the global non-proliferation regime, including within the framework of the IAEA and the CTBTO. Unfortunately, the NPT in itself does not provide a remedy for the unique security challenges of the region, let alone the repeated violations of the treaty by some of its members, primarily Iran. On the matter of the TPNW, Israel wishes to emphasize its clear view that the treaty, which Israel does not support, does not create or contribute to the development of or indicate the existence of customary law related to the subject or the content of the treaty. Chair, some actors in the region still claim that a comprehensive security architecture can be initiated in the Middle East without direct engagement with Israel. This notion is in direct contradiction with the 1999 disarmament commission report on guidelines and principles for the establishment of a nuclear weapons free zone. Ill-motivated initiatives such as the UN conference on a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction are unhelpful to say the least. Israel will not participate in artificial processes that bypassed the established practice. Mr. Chair, the use of chemical weapons by states in the Middle East against their own population and against neighboring countries occurred five times since the Second World War. To this end, the international community should strongly support the important work of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. I'm sorry. I apologize. Towards this end, the international community should strongly support the important work of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. Israel is a party to the General Protocol of 1925 and a signatory state to the CWC. Israel supports the vital work of the OPCW and has a longstanding record of supporting it. Following the recent changes in Syria, Israel supports the OPCW and the international community's efforts to dismantle sites, stockpiles and equipment associated with the Assad regime's chemical weapons program. In this regard, we recall the OPCW's recent reports regarding samples which revealed indications of chemical warfare nerve agents in Syria and call on the authorities in Syria to allow full definition of the scope of these weapons-related activities. All these tasks are vital to prevent such lethal materials from falling into the hands of unauthorized actors, such as terrorist groups that are unfortunately still very active in Syria. As events in Syria in the past months clearly demonstrate, specifically with regard to atrocities carried out against minorities in the country, unconventional weapons must not fall into the hands of irresponsible actors. Chair, over the past two decades, Iran has been secretly developing a chemical weapons program based on weaponized pharmaceutical agents. Beyond its R&D program, it appears that Iran produced fentanyl-based munitions and other types of weaponized PBAs. These substances have been incorporated in grenades and mortars, which can be used for multiple purposes. We have grounds to believe that the munitions secretly developed by Iran have been transferred to proxies in the region for use against Israel and others. According to intelligence based on reports and pictures, these munitions may have already been used in Iraq and Syria. Furthermore, we have started to see indications of the developments of chemical agents for military use by Hezbollah in Lebanon and by the Houthis in Yemen, two of Iran's most prominent terror proxies. Chair, regretfully, for decades, conventional weapons have been acquired and proliferated throughout the Middle East in unprecedented quantities, often in violation of binding international obligations and embargoes. These weapons find their way to the hands of oppressive regimes, terrorist organizations and terrorist sponsoring states. In this regard, we recall that terror organizations worldwide...

I thank the distinguished representative of Israel for his statement. I now give the floor to His

Excellency the Permanent Representative of the Dominican Republic. You have the floor, Your Excellency.

Thank you, Chairman. At the outset, please allow me to congratulate you for your election to head up this committee. We assure you of our full support in your leadership role. The Dominican Republic seizes this opportunity to reaffirm our staunch commitment to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, in particular the promotion of international peace and security and general and complete disarmament under strict and effective international control. Chairman, we are living through times of huge uncertainty for the international community. Geopolitical tensions and the modernisation of nuclear arsenals and weakening of international arms control instruments threaten eroding the progress made over decades of multilateral effort. In this regard, we are convinced that we must meet the moment and reflect on the world that we want to live in, which Contrast with current reality, where we are seeing saber-rattling and a risk of nuclear proliferation prevailing, grounded in the old doctrine of security through nuclear deterrence, when real security is achieved through cooperation, mutual trust and respect of sovereignty and international law. What's more, we believe that multilateralism, international cooperation and diplomacy remain the essential pillars in order to build a safer, more stable, sustainable and predictable international order. My country reaffirms its commitment to the main international legal instruments that together make up the disarmament and non-proliferation architecture, such as the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the NPT, the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, the CTBT, the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, the TPNW, Resolution 1540 of the Security Council, and the Tlatelolco Treaty, which established the first nuclear weapon free zone in a densely populated region. Chairman, all of these instruments complement each other and constitute the bedrock of our discussions on non-proliferation and disarmament. We call for them to be duly implemented in order to guarantee a world free of nuclear weapons that would allow future generations to live in peace and security far away from this grave threat. Chairman, disarmament is not only limited to the nuclear realm. The proliferation and misuse of small arms and light weapons is one of the most persistent challenges to human security, particularly in developing countries. These weapons feed armed violence, organised crime and insecurity for citizens, affecting the social fabric and they're also a barrier to sustainable development. The Dominican Republic recognises the need to beef up efforts to address the impact of the illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons that particularly affect vulnerable segments of our population like women and children. In this regard, we urge the international community to increase cooperation to responsibly manage arsenals and to effectively implement the UN program of action on small arms and light weapons, as well as the arms trade treaty, the ATT, and the international tracing instruments. My country reaffirms its commitment to the full and effective implementation of these instruments, which are essential for preventing and combating the illicit trafficking of weapons. When it comes to conventional munitions, my country supports UN efforts to make progress with a legally binding instrument on conventional munitions. We also support the work of the governmental group of experts on munitions and substantive issues of this committee. On a regional level, the Dominican Republic is participating actively in CARICOM and SICA spaces, boosting regional cooperation for the control of arms and munitions with the implementation of initiatives such as the two roadmaps of Central America and CARICOM. Chairman, the Dominican Republic underscores how important it is to participate in discussions on technological progress and on the use of technology and AI in the military sphere. This is one of the most key crucial issues for the future of international peace and security. AI, robotics, automization and massive data analysis are redefining the way societies produce, communicate and defend themselves. This progress, of course, offer up huge benefits for humanity. Nevertheless, the potential use of autonomous lethal weapon systems and cyber threats pose ethical questions as well as legal ones and international security challenges that without precedent. Our country believes that it's essential to foster transparency, accountability, and meaningful human supervision throughout the development, deployment and use cycle of these technologies. What's more, we urge the international community to strengthen cooperation in the area of digital cybersecurity and technological ethics governance, ensuring that scientific progress benefits common wellbeing and does not lead to destruction. In this context, the Dominican Republic supports the efforts of the international community in order to establish clear legal norms and limits On the military use of AI, we applaud the work of the governmental group of experts on laws in the framework of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, the CCW, as well as initiatives geared towards promoting an international treaty that prohibits or regulates strictly fully autonomous weapons. This is an issue that we must not delay in dealing with. Finally, Chairman, the Dominican Republic is convinced that disarmament is not just an ideal that would be difficult to achieve, but rather what it is, is a shared responsibility and a moral duty vis-a-vis future generations. We reiterate our firm commitment to the strengthening of the multilateral system, to the respect of international law, and the promotion of diplomacy as the legitimate way of resolving conflicts and building peace. Thank you very much for this opportunity.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Dominican Republic for his statement.

I now give the floor to Her Excellency the Permanent Representative of Malta.

Thank you, Chair. At the outset, I would like to start by extending our warm congratulations to the Chair and the members of the Bureau on your election. You can count on Malta's full support and cooperation. Malta aligns with the statement delivered by the EU on behalf of its member states. I would like to make the following remarks and comments in my national capacity. Malta has consistently upheld the view that disarmament and non-proliferation are essential pillars of international peace and security and remain central to preserving the rules-based multilateral order. In an increasingly complex global security environment where geopolitical tensions and technological advances risk undermining existing norms, it is imperative that we reaffirm and strengthen our collective commitments. Malta is a steadfast supporter of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the cornerstone of the global non-proliferation regime and the foundation for pursuing nuclear disarmament. Ahead of next year's refcon, we call on all states parties to work constructively towards the full implementation of all three pillars of the treaty, including tangible progress on Article 6, which obliges nuclear weapons states to pursue negotiations in good faith towards disarmament. Malta also fully supports the establishment of regional nuclear weapons free zones, as mandated by Article 7 of the NPT. Malta remains a strong advocate for the establishment of a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction in this regard. My country remains, however, concerned that the New START Treaty is about to expire on the 6th of February of next year and that negotiations for a successor treaty have not yet materialized. We believe nevertheless that there is an urgent need to preserve and achieve further reductions and limitations of deployed strategic nuclear arsenals. This is both in the interest of the security of all concerned and in the interest of the NPT. To this end, together with a number of other like-minded Member States, Malta has joined the joint statement on the new start in the First Committee. While we underline the urgent need for a successor strategic arms control framework, in the meantime, we take note of recent statements by the United States and the Russian Federation indicating their intention to continue observing the New START treaty's limits, at least for another year. While we acknowledge this is a positive signal that can help maintain a degree of strategic stability, we nevertheless urge for concrete steps towards renewed arms control negotiations. Chair, Malta believes that disarmament is not only a security imperative, but also a moral and a humanitarian one. The catastrophic consequences of any use of nuclear weapons underscore the urgency of advancing towards their complete elimination. Malta plays an active role in advancing the treaty on the prohibition of nuclear weapons. In this regard, Malta is honored to serve as gender coordinator under the TPNW, until the next review conference in 2026. In this capacity and in line with our strong commitment to the women peace and security agenda, Malta organized end of last week together with Austria, South Africa and Mexico, a first committee side event to commemorate resolution 1325 on women peace and security, whilst highlighting the vital role of gender perspectives in disarmament. In the meantime, Malta together with a number of other states, has also joined the cross-regional joint statement on gender and disarmament. Malta further underlines the TPNW's complementarity with the Non-Proliferation Treaty amongst others. At this juncture, we reiterate our call on all states that have not yet done so to sign and ratify the TPNW at the earliest possible date as the strongest legal rejection of nuclear weapons. With each new signature and ratification, the global norm against nuclear weapons is strengthened. Chair, on the other hand, we register with concern the continued lack of progress on nuclear disarmament and urge all nuclear armed states to take concrete and irreversible steps to reduce their nuclear arsenals. The IAEA plays an invaluable role in the context of nuclear non-proliferation and we call for the universal adherence to its safeguards. Malta also supports the immediate entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. We deeply regret that the Russian Federation's decision to withdraw its ratification of the CTBT. In the meantime, we continue to call on the remaining annexed two states to ratify without further delay. Malta also attaches great importance to the universal adherence and full implementation of key disarmament and non-proliferation instruments, including the Chemical Weapons Convention and the Biological Weapons Convention. We condemn any use of chemical weapons under any circumstance and support the work of the OPCW in upholding the global norm against such weapons. We are equally concerned by the risks posed by the proliferation of missiles and new emerging technologies, including autonomous systems and cyber capabilities. We stress the imperative to avoid an arms race in outer space. Multa underlines furthermore the importance of retaining human control and use of force and has advocated for the prohibition of fully autonomous weapons which are not in compliance with IHL. Chair, in concluding, as a strong supporter of gender equality and women's rights, Malta will continue to support and to promote the full, active and meaningful participation of women at all levels of disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control fora. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Malta for her statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency the Permanent Representative of Fiji. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Let me start by congratulating you on assuming the chairmanship of the First Committee. My delegation assures you and the Bureau members of our full support. Let me also thank Her Excellency Marisa Chan of Costa Rica for guiding the work of the First Committee in the previous session. The global peace and security landscape is undergoing seismic shifts, becoming more interconnected and complex. Rising geopolitical tensions, illicit flow of arms, rapid technological advancements in warfare, with emerging technologies from autonomous weapons to cyber capabilities, are outpacing international regulations. With this, we welcome President Trump's 20-point Gaza peace plan, which resulted in the release of the remaining hostages in Israel and the resultant ceasefire. We also note with appreciation the support of the countries that helped make the deal possible. This is a positive step for global community. In this volatile environment, the first committee's mandate to address disarmament and international security is not just relevant, it is crucial. The first committee remains the cornerstone for safeguarding international peace and security through diplomacy, cooperation, and the rule of law. It is the unique multilateral platform that reaffirms our collective commitment to disarmament and responsible state behavior. We need not be reminded of why the United Nations was founded 80 years ago. Those dark days in history must never be repeated. We need to move forward together under the three pillars of the Charter. In the Pacific and from a small island developing state perspective, the rules-based international order from which Fiji benefited with global cooperation and economic interdependence is at the risk of disappearing. Now the outlook for our region and globally is uncertain. There is a complicated and complex great power rivalry in our region. How this competition will play out is a serious concern. The stakes are high and there are significant risks of miscalculation. With this, Fiji's most significant security threat lies in the prospect of a region which is driven by division, insecurity, and instability. This is the very reason behind the adoption of the Pacific's Ocean of Peace Declaration this year, led by the honorable Prime Minister Sitiveni Rambo of Fiji, at the Pacific Leaders 54th meeting in Honiara, Solomon Islands last month. This is the Pacific's contribution to peace and security in the Pacific and beyond. Peace has always been the pillar of Fiji's foreign policy. Almost five decades ago, soon after our independence, Fiji put itself forward as a troop-contributing country to the United Nations peacekeeping effort. This is ongoing till today. Our contribution remains the largest per capita in the UN's peace and security efforts. We have also strengthened the participation of our women in peacekeeping, in line with the uniform gender parity. We will continue to do so as long as our service is needed. Chair, the painful legacy of nuclear testing in the Pacific has instilled a deep awareness of the threats posed by the proliferation of nuclear weapons. This year we are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Treaty of Rarotonga, a testament to our commitment to a region free from nuclear weapons. Fiji, on its part, continues to promote universalization efforts of all nuclear instruments in our region and support the establishment of International Trust Fund for victims assistance and environment remediation. We continue to strengthen our relationship with Australia and New Zealand within our Pacific regional security architecture. and the 2050 strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. This includes enhancing defense capabilities and preparedness and builds operational readiness, interoperability and diplomatic relations. Fiji supports the IAEA, important role of the organization is promoting peace and development such as food security, climate adaptation and health. As the chair of the IAEA regional cooperation agreement for Asia and the Pacific, Fiji will work with the IAEA to promote inclusive development and security in the region. Chair, our vast ocean space has been the strategic target for illicit diversion of small arms and light weapons, including drug trafficking. While our region is often viewed as peaceful and remote, we are not immune to the destabilizing effects of transnational crime, arms trafficking, and the misuse of conventional weapons. The proliferation of small arms, whether through theft, diversion or illegal transshipment, poses a direct threat to our communities, undermines development and fuels violence and insecurity. Fiji is committed to acceding to the Arms Trade Treaty. We believe that transparency, accountability and international cooperation are essential to curb the illicit arms trade. Our region is an ocean of peace where our people can thrive free from the threat of armed violence. With this, Fiji works closely with the CWC, BWC, ISU and the OPCW to strengthen chemical and biological weapons safeguards, including universalization efforts in the Pacific region. Our partnership with UNODC to curb drugs and crime that fuels illicit arms flow is important. Fiji also joins the growing chorus of nations calling for urgent international action on AI, especially on the lethal autonomous weapon system. We will support efforts to address this matter in this committee. We emphasize the need for clear rules and principles of the use of AI. We support the Secretary-General's call for a legally binding instrument to regulate autonomous weapons. We take note of the consultations on the resolution entitled AI in the military domain and its implications for the international peace and security, and urge all states, especially those with technological capability to develop such systems to engage constructively and transparently. Chair, cyber threats continue to escalate with state and non-state actors exploiting vulnerabilities to disrupt, destabilize, and divide. For small island developing states like Fiji and our Pacific neighbors, the stakes are high especially. Our digital ecosystems are expanding rapidly, but our capacity to defend them remains limited. We rely on the United Nations to uphold norms of responsible state behavior in cyberspace, promote capability building, and foster international cooperation to prevent cyber conflict consistent with the Pact of the Future. We welcome the outcome of the OEWG chaired by the distinguished ambassador of Singapore as a step in the right direction, and we look forward to its corresponding resolution in this committee. The deployment of nuclear weapons in space will not only violate the spirit of the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, but would also endanger satellites that support climate monitoring.

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

Mr. President, first of all, I would like to congratulate you, as well as the members of the Bureau, for your election of this committee, as well as to ensure you of our full support. Mr. President, today, in the context of existential challenges that threaten humanity, we have a historical and moral responsibility to call for disarmament and non-proliferation away from confrontation and militarization. No member state has the necessary capacities to cope with the immediate or lasting effects of nuclear detonation. Morocco firmly rejects the illusion that nuclear arsenals are guarantees of security and stability. Our commitment to disarmament and non-proliferation is a strategic choice reflecting our attachment to international peace and security and the peaceful settlement of disputes. Mr. President, while the 2015 and 2022 negotiations did not fully meet our legitimate aspirations, the 11th NPT Review Conference in 2026 should be an opportunity to reaffirm our collective commitment to the treaty and its mechanisms. We strongly reaffirm the inalienable right of all states parties to the NPT to access peaceful applications of nuclear energy for their development. This right must be exercised within the framework of enhanced international cooperation and under the aegis of International Atomic Energy Agency. Mr. President, we recall the strong link between the universalization of the NPT and the historical commitment to eliminate nuclear weapons in the Middle East established in the 1995 resolution. Morocco will assume the presidency of the sixth session of the Conference for the Establishment of the Middle East Zone Free of Weapons of Mass Destruction in November 2025 with a keen sense of responsibility and unwavering determination. Morocco will mobilize all its energies to make this session a significant step towards forward towards our shared objective, which is a Middle East free of weapons of mass destruction, mass destruction, and as an essential condition for lasting peace in the region. Almost three decades have passed since the adoption of the CBT, yet it has still not yet entered into force. Morocco reaffirms its strong commitment to this essential instrument. Mr. President, as a state party to the CWC and the BWC, Morocco condemns in the strongest terms any use of these weapons by any actor or any place and under any circumstances. States parties to the CWC must act decisively to consolidate the role of OPCW in our collective march towards a world free of the chemical threats. Morocco remains deeply concerned by the danger posed by the acquisition and potential use of these weapons by non-state actors and terrorist groups. Mr. President, Morocco organized last October 2024 in Rabat the first ever global conference on the role of AI in the implementation of the CWC. Morocco also welcomes the launch in January 2025 by the Director General of OPCW of the Temporary Working Group on AI, an initiative that directly follows the recommendations of the Rabat Conference. Mr. President, Morocco was honored to have chaired the 68th session of the Committee on the Peaceful Use of Outer Space this summer. This presidency reflects the resolute ambition of Morocco to place developing countries at the heart of international space governance and making a major contributor to peaceful exploration of space. Morocco also reaffirms the central role of the agency in promoting the peaceful application of nuclear technology. Morocco continues its commitment to sharing its expertise with African brothers and friends with bilat both bilaterally and through its cooperation with the agency in order to promote the safe and secure use of nuclear applications. Regarding the use of ICT in international security, Morocco welcomes the adoption of the final report of the working group and expresses deep gratitude to the distinguished ambassador of Singapore, chair of the group, for his leadership. Morocco looks forward to the establishment of the new global mechanism while reaffirming the urgent need to provide within this mechanism an appropriate and substantial space dedicated to discussions on capacity building in developing countries. Morocco reaffirms its firm commitment to the UN program of action to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, as well as to the international tracing instruments. Mr. President, my delegation was surprised to hear my brother from Namibia bring up a matter that falls outside the mandate of this committee. The first committee is about disarmament and international security. It is not about political questions that fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Security Council. Over 100 member states have delivered statements in this debate, and only one country, Namibia, regrettably chose to deviate from the committee's mandate. Member states have for decades refrain from turning this committee into a political platform for unrelated political disputes. But Namibia is so fit to raise the question of the Moroccan Sahara in its statements here. Furthermore, as far as we remember, this is the first time that a member state raises the issue of the Moroccan Sahara during general debates of this first committee. As Namibia itself mentioned yesterday, the issue of the Moroccan Sahara is dealt with solely at the Security Council level. Bringing it here demonstrates Namibia's desire to politicize the nature of this committee's work. This contributes nothing to the work of the first committee or to the Security Council's efforts to resolve this artificial dispute. More importantly, the referendum Namibia calls for is dead and buried. It has been deemed inapplicable by the UN itself. Since 2004, all Security Council resolutions have called for a realistic, pragmatic, and mutually acceptable solution. political solution, not a referendum. In line with this, Morocco presented its autonomy initiative in 2007, which has brought international support and described by Security Council as serious and credible. Does Namibia recognize the right to self-determination for the people of Caprivi? Because this statement of Namibia on the Moroccan Sahara, which is thousands of miles away from Namibia, is profoundly paradoxical. Namibia likes to speak loudly about self-determination abroad but denies it for the people of Caprivi. Does it recognize the right to self-determination for these people? The answer is no. Indeed, Namibia systematically violates the rights of Caprivi when it comes to giving them their right to self-determination, and which is the last colony and occupied territory in Africa. Morocco has put forward the autonomy initiative for the Sahara region. What has Namibia offered for the people of Caprivi? Definitely not their right to self-determination, on the contrary, it has offered them imprisonment, torture, abduction, arbitrary detention for the exiles, simply for demanding the very right Namibia invokes elsewhere. So if Namibia is genuinely concerned about self-determination, it should be well advised to start by applying that principle to the Caprivan people still living today under foreign occupation. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Morocco for her statement. I now give the floor to his Excellency, the permanent representative of Trinidad and Tobago. Excellency, you have the floor.

Chair, Trinidad and Tobago extends congratulations to you and the members of the Bureau on your election. We are confident that under your stewardship, the work of this session of the first committee would be conducted in the spirit of cooperation and guided towards a successful conclusion. Trinidad and Tobago aligns itself with the statement delivered by Belize on behalf of the Caribbean community, Caricom, and the statement delivered by Uganda on behalf of the non-aligned movement. Chair, this session takes place against the backdrop of growing insecurity where global military expenditures are soaring Yet measures to safeguard peace and security are struggling to keep pace. The rapid development of emerging technologies of war outpacing our ability to regulate them. Even as persistent threats continue to challenge global security. For Trinidad and Tobago, the imperative is clear. The international community must respond with renewed urgency for the warning signs of uncertainty and instability are multiplying before our very eyes. Chair, nowhere is more evident than in this scourge of the illicit proliferation of small arms and light weapons and ammunition. The illegal use of small arms and light weapons fuel gang violence, sustain organized criminal networks, and disrupt the daily lives of citizens, leaving communities in fear, and weakening the very foundations of peace and security. These global challenges are felt acutely at the national level. In Trinidad and Tobago, alarmingly high levels of homicide and armed violence make the prevention of illicit arms transfers a matter of urgent priority. It is in the context that we reaffirm our commitment to the objectives of the Arms Trade Treaty and to its full and effective implementation. We welcome recent decisions taken at the 11th Conference of State Parties to the ATT, including the initiation of a five-year strategy to strengthen the implementation of the treaty. Chair, the fourth review conference on the UN Programme for Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons provided a vital platform to reaffirm global commitments, review progress, and advance practical measures to combat the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons. Complimenting these efforts, Trinidad and Tobago strongly supports the global framework for through life conventional ammunition management. We emphasize that small states require targeted support to implement the framework effectively including technical assistance, capacity building, and resource sharing. Chair, Turning to nuclear weapons, Trinidad and Tobago's position remains unwavering. The only absolute guarantee against their use is their total, irreversible, and verifiable elimination. We are parties to the Treaty of Tlatelolco of Latin America and the Caribbean, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, and the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. together forming the essential architect of a nuclear free world. This architecture is however meaninglessly if its foundations are neglected. We therefore call on all nuclear weapons states to fulfill their article six obligations. To resume serious dialogue and to abandon the dangerous illusion that nuclear weapons can provide security. Chair, As the international community prepares for the 2026 NPT Review Conference and the first review conference of the TPNW in 2026, Trinidad and Tobago urges states to use these milestones to demonstrate concrete progress toward disarmament and to reinforce our collective responsibility for a world free of nuclear weapons. Chair, Just as we face the urgent imperative to eliminate nuclear weapons, we must also confront emerging threats that could reshape the nature of conflict itself. One such is artificial intelligence, which while holding enormous promise, poses great risks in the context of warfare, particularly when applied to lethal autonomous weapons systems. Allowing algorithms to decide matters of life and death is a moral threshold we cannot permit ourselves to cross. Trinidad and Tobago therefore supports continued international discussions toward a legally binding instrument to regulate or prohibit these weapons, ensuring that human dignity is preserved, accountability is maintained, and the global stability is safeguarded. Chair, Trinidad and Tobago has championed meaningful participation of women in all aspects of disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control discourse. We recognize that women are not only disproportionately affected by armed violence, but they also bring unique perspectives, expertise and leadership essential to crafting sustainable solutions. Ensuring that their voices and experiences are fully integrated into policy formulation and decision-making processes strengthens the effectiveness of arms control measures enhances compliance and improve the prospects of lasting peace and security. Chair, Trinidad and Tobago recognizes the disproportionate and lasting impact of armed violence, explosive remnants of war, and the use of conventional weapons on persons with disabilities. We emphasize that persons with disabilities must not only be protected from the consequences of armed violence, but also be meaningfully included in decision making processes related to disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control. Chair, the challenges before us are interconnected. Let us measure our progress not only by the size of our arsenals, but by the safety of our citizens. True security is not forged through weapons, but through trust, cooperation and respect for human dignity. I thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Trinidad and Tobago.

Now I give the floor to His Excellency the DPR of the Republic of Cuba. Excellency, you have the floor.

distinguished representatives. I am delighted to congratulate the Chair of the Committee and the other members of the Bureau. I align myself with the statement made by Uganda on behalf of the non-aligned movement. Eight decades have gone by since the UN was founded and we are far from being able to avoid the wars to save humanity. Instead, these have proliferated. The 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings by the United States of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and their catastrophic consequences remind us that achieving nuclear disarmament is not only the ultimate priority of the disarmament machinery, but rather a matter of survival. The debates at this committee are now more necessary than ever in the international context currently marked by an exponential increase in military expenditure reaching $2.7 billion. where non-conventional, feeding non-conventional wars and weakening international agreements on disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control. Actions such as the aggressive escalation by Israel that have caused a profound humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Israeli attacks perpetrated perpetrated against nuclear facilities in Iran with the complicity of the US government are proof of the frequent violations of the UN Charter and of international law. After two years of brutal genocide by the Zionist regime in Gaza that will leave an indelible mark on humanity, Israel and Hamas reached a fragile agreement for ceasefire, welcomed by the world as a ray of hope that may put an end to the barbarie. In the Caribbean Sea, there is an irrational US military deployment on baseless grounds, endangering the peace, security and stability of our region, disregarding the fact that Latin America and the Caribbean is and must remain a zone of peace. Once again, we declare our firm and unwavering support to the Bolivarian and Chavista government of Venezuela and the popular and military unity of the Venezuelan people. The third meeting of the States Parties on the TPNW was successfully organised this year. It is necessary to universalise this treaty, convinced that Each new state that joins this instrument is a step towards the delegitimization of nuclear weapons. Given the credibility crisis of the TPNW, we can't afford another failed review conference in 2026. We need concrete, measurable actions with established deadlines for the total elimination of nuclear weapons in an irreversible, transparent and verifiable way. The establishment of internationally recognized nuclear weapons free zones strengthens international peace and security and the non-proliferation regime and contributes to the goal of nuclear disarmament. The agreement reached in the open-ended working group on the security of ICTs and for the establishment of a new intergovernmental mechanism by consensus under the auspices of the UN is a significant progress. In looking to the discussions on the new mechanism, We must not try to force the notion of the applicability of international law to cyberspace. We reject the covert and illegal use of ICTs. We also call out the use of platforms from the territory of the United States against Cuba. They must halt immediately. We reject the economic, trade and financial embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba that violates the principles of international cooperation on international instruments on biological, chemical and other weapons. It's necessary to have an international legally binding instrument that prohibits autonomous weapon systems and regulates semi-autonomous ones. This should not prevent though equitable access by states to AI for peaceful purposes. It's necessary for the disarmament commission to agree on nuclear disarmament and reach common understandings on emerging technologies in the context of international security. What, and this depends on the political will of states. The Conference on Disarmament must comply with its negotiating mandate, preserving its procedures and practices. By way of conclusion, we particularly emphasise the fact that the current liquidity crisis must not be used in order to curtail States or groups of States from presenting initiatives that are in line with their foreign policy priorities. Some of them are longstanding ones. We reaffirm the right of peoples to peace, development and justice. Thank you very much.

I thank the.

Distinguished representative of the Republic of Cuba.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. You have the floor.

Mr. Chair, I wish to extend my congratulations to you and other Bureau members. and assure you of my delegation's full cooperation. We also align ourselves with the statement delivered by Uganda on behalf of NAM. Mr. Chair, as we convene here to advance the noble objective of promoting international peace and security, it is imperative to confront the root causes of global instability. Foremost among these are the deliberate and systematic violations of the UN Charter and international law, as well as the imposition of unlawful measures through power rather than legitimate legal authority. Allow me to highlight two very recent and alarming manifestations of this dangerous trend. First, the persistent aggression and occupation by the Israeli regime have, for decades and with unprecedented brutality in the past two years, in Palestine and neighboring countries, resulted in mass civilian casualties, forced displacement and acts of genocide in flagrant defiance of the UN Charter, international law and the Geneva Conventions. This aggression escalated to an extremely dangerous level between June 13 and June 24, 2025, when the Israeli regime, with the full and active support of the United States, launched unprovoked and premeditated terrorist and military attacks against Iran. including the deliberate targeting of Iran's IAEA safeguarded peaceful nuclear facilities. These unlawful acts represent a clear and serious breach of the UN Charter, fundamental principles of international law, the IAEA statute, and the NPT. They also severely undermine diplomacy and the credibility and integrity of the NPT and its safeguarded regimes. Second, The illegitimate, politically irresponsible, and procedurally abusive attempt by the E3 to invoke the so-called snapback mechanism is another clear manifestation of the same disregard for international law. Following the unilateral and unlawful US withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018, the E3 not only failed to honor their obligations to preserve the core bargain of the agreement, but also lost any standing to claim significant non-performance, particularly as Iran's response consisted of lawful and proportionate remedial measures fully consistent with its right under the JCPOA and Resolution 2231. The 28th of August communication to the President of the Security Council is therefore devoid of any legal validity. and the coordinated attempts by Germany, France, the United Kingdom and the United States to revive terminated sanctions are legally null and void. Moreover, the draft resolution of 19 September flagrantly contravenes resolution 2231 and cannot, under any circumstances, restore sanctions that have already been lawfully and permanently terminated. Neither Iran nor the international community bears any obligations to recognize or implement such illegal measures. All nuclear-related restrictions under Resolution 2231 will thus permanently expire on October 18, 2025, strictly in accordance with the timeline agreed upon and endorsed by the Security Council. This is also the clear and unequivocal position of the Non-Aligned Movement, which represents two-thirds of the UN member states, as stated on the very first day of this session. And I quote, "NAM reaffirms the continued significance of the spirit of collaboration and multilateralism that led to the unanimous adoption of Security Council Resolution 2231. and underscores that its provisions and timelines must be strictly respected. NAM further stresses that all provisions of the resolution should be terminated in accordance with paragraph eight of resolution 2231 thereof. End of quote. Mr. Chair, since Hiroshima, Nuclear weapons have posed an existential threat to humanity. Yet some states continue to pursue policies that directly undermine the multilateral frameworks intended to prevent nuclear catastrophe. Instead of fulfilling their disarmament obligations, nuclear weapon states are modernizing their arsenals, expanding production and testing capabilities, and increasing their warheads and delivery systems. Moreover, five NATO states, including Belgium, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands, continue to host US nuclear weapons. And more than 40 countries, including Australia, Canada, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, and Spain, rely on extended US nuclear deterrence. The AUKUS partnership between the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia further undermines the non-proliferation regime, breaching Article 14 of the Comprehensive Safeguard Agreement and weakening the NPT. A genuine commitment to disarmament also requires compelling Israel and regime with a clandestine nuclear arsenal and a record of threatening others with nuclear annihilation to renounce its nuclear weapons, join the NPT as a non-nuclear weapon party, and place all its facilities under comprehensive IAEA safeguards. Iran is deeply concerned by the prolonged delay in implementing the 1995 resolution and the 2010 plan of action on establishing a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons, a proposal first put forward by Iran in 1974. This process has been persistently obstructed by the Israeli regime with full U.S. support. Mr. Chair, Iran firmly supports the full, effective, and non-discriminatory implementation of the BWC and CWC. As the largest victim of chemical weapons in modern history, Iran categorically condemns any use of such weapons by anyone, anywhere, under any circumstances. They stressed the importance of achieving universality of both conventions, particularly in the Middle East, where the Israeli regime's WMD arsenal remains a grave source of concern and a direct threat to regional and international peace and security. Iran strongly rejects discriminatory measures, including unilateral coercive measures and misuse of export control regimes. that obstruct scientific and technological exchange, particularly targeting developing countries. Such practices violate international law, undermine the letter and spirit of both conventions, and erode confidence in multilateralism. Iran remains firmly committed to the promotion of international peace and security. We will continue to work with all member states to advance this shared objective. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Iran for his statement. I now give the floor to her excellency, the permanent representative of Montenegro. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, Montenegro aligns itself with the EU statement and would like to highlight several points of particular importance to us. Maintaining international peace and security remains primary purpose of the UN. Yet today we are facing numerous conflicts around the world marked by violations and abuses of international law, including the international humanitarian and human rights law. These challenges are complex and must be resolved with our collective action. That is why Montenegro will continue to uphold the international law, the rule of law, and multilateralism based on the UN charter, while continuing to promote global security architecture for arms control, disarmament, and non-proliferation. We strongly believe that the implementation of the Pact for the Future provides an excellent platform to tackle current and future global challenges. The UNAD process can offer additional support to these efforts as it aims towards a more effective UN. Mr. Chair, we are heading towards the fourth year of Russia's unprovoked, illegal, and unjustified aggression against Ukraine. Once again, we strongly condemn Russia's violation of fundamental principles of international law that has negative global consequences and has caused immense destruction and loss of life. We are deeply concerned about the continued military support that Belarus, Iran and the DPRK provide to Russia, which enables sustainment of its illegal war of aggression. We reaffirm our call to Russia to respect international law and its international obligations, including those in disarmament and non-proliferation. At the same time, two years after the horrific October 7 terrorist attack, we welcome the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, which ensured the release of hostages and enables the delivery of humanitarian aid to those who need it most. We believe this is the first most important step to end the suffering and ensure durable peace in the Middle East. We are also deeply concerned by the deteriorating situation in other parts of the world that are overshadowed by the presence of war. Mr. Chair, Montenegro reaffirms its resolute commitment to arms control, disarmament, and non-proliferation, and the full implementation of the NPT under effective international control, goals that are enshrined in the UN Charter and at the heart of the multilateral security. As a state party to the NPT, CWC, BWC, ATT, and the UNCCW, Montenegro consistently advocates for universal adherence, effective implementation, and strengthening of these instruments. We view them not only as legal obligation, but as a moral and political imperative that should define our collective security architecture. Montenegro is actively strengthening its national CBRN resilience framework guided by our national CBRN Roadmap 2023-28. We are enhancing legislative alignment, national capacities and interagency coordination for preparedness and response in close cooperation with the EU's CBRN Centres of Excellence initiative. Most recently, Montenegro also formally notified the Australia Group of our decision to become unilaterally adherent to the AG guidelines on preventing biological and chemical weapons. We will continue to support the objectives and implementation of the CWC and the vital work of the OPCW in ensuring the complete elimination of chemical weapons and preventing their re-emergence. Additionally, we reaffirm our full commitment to the BWC and welcome continued dialogue on establishing a robust and effective verification mechanism to ensure compliance. Excellencies, Montenegro continues to support the full and effective implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and their Destruction. We welcome the progress achieved under the Convention, including the adoption of the new Action Plan 2025-29. We underline the importance of assistance for mine clearance, victim rehabilitation and mine risk education, efforts to which Montenegro continues to contribute to, both nationally and through regional cooperation in the Western Balkans. We reiterate firm support for the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons and its protocols, which seek to balance legitimate defence needs with the imperative to prevent human suffering. We also commend the ongoing work of the Group of Governmental Experts on Emerging Technologies in the Area of Law. Dear colleagues, Montenegro is actively pursuing a comprehensive and strategic approach to small arms and light weapons control and reduction in line with the UN program and regional commitments in the Western Balkans, most notably under the UNDP CSAC regional roadmap 2030. Our national efforts include enhanced stockpile management, export controls, and domestic legislation in order to prevent illicit proliferation, as well as voluntary destruction programs for surplus weapons. Montenegro also cooperates closely with our neighbors and international partners to improve information sharing, border control, and community awareness aimed at preventing diversion and misuse of small arms and light weapons. Next year, we will mark the 30th anniversary of the signing of a legally binding sub-regional arms control document, the Florence Agreement. Its successful implementation, with more than 10,000 pieces of heavy weapons destroyed and more than 830 inspections carried out, shows that we can build trust even in the current complex condition and deteriorated security situation in Europe. Mr. Chair, recognizing the importance of responsible views of cyberspace to global security, Montenegro fully support all UN and international efforts in that vein. We have adopted cybersecurity strategy and are improving national capacities by establishing cybersecurity agency. Montenegro is also a host of the regional Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Center in cooperation with France and Slovenia. We also support preventing all forms of violence against women and ensuring that all peace processes integrate gender perspectives and enable equal and meaningful participation of women. The WPS agenda must also evolve to address emerging challenges which disproportionately affect women and girls. In conclusion, we strongly believe that international peace and security depend on sustained progress in disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control. Montenegro remains committed to cooperation with our allies and partners in advancing a vision of a safer and more secure world. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Montenegro for her statement. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of San Marino. You have the floor.

Mr. Chair, it's a real pleasure to congratulate you and all the members of the Bureau on your election. You can count on this delegation's full cooperation. San Marino aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union. Now I'd like to add some comments in my national capacity. Mr. Chair, San Marino is deeply worried about all the ongoing conflicts around the world, which continue to spread death, destruction, and immense suffering to civilians, trapping them in cycles of violence and trauma. Sadly, we have witnessed an alarming rise in civilian casualties in conflicts. The number of women and children killed has reached disgraceful figures. Civilians have been deliberately attacked. Starvation and rape have been used as weapons of war by parties. We firmly condemn such action and call on all parties to strictly abide to international humanitarian law. Regrettably, violence has increased also against humanitarian actors and journalists who are being killed in unprecedented numbers. We condemn the attacks against humanitarian personnel, aid workers and journalists. and we call on all parties to reverse the erosion of international humanitarian law. In this spirit, San Marino has recently endorsed the declaration for the protection of humanitarian personnel. San Marino also condemns the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, which causes the disruption of basic services for the population and unacceptable civilian harm. We continue to support and call for the implementation of the political declaration on strengthening the protection of civilians from the humanitarian consequences arising from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas. We also recall the fundamental importance of the Convention on Cluster Munitions and of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention in preventing harm to civilians. We regret recent withdrawals from such instruments. We believe that in times of armed conflict, civilians are particularly at risk, and it is therefore critical to reinforce IHL. San Marino remains very concerned about the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine, which continues to cause dramatic consequences for the civilian population. We welcome all international efforts for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace, in line with the UN Charter and international law, and we continue to support Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders. Concerning the Middle East, Samarin is thankful to the successful mediator's efforts and welcomes the conclusion of the peace agreement. While remaining very concerned about the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, this recent long-awaited outcome represents a glimmer of hope for a just and lasting peace based on the two-state solution. Mr. Chair, ongoing armed conflicts increase global instability and put all humanity at imminent risks, including nuclear risks. Aggressive nuclear rhetoric and threats have regrettably reappeared, increasing the risk of deadly escalation, threatening to spiral out of control and putting all humanity in global danger. San Marino condemns in the strongest terms any nuclear threat, implicit or explicit, and irrespective of circumstances. The catastrophic humanitarian consequences of any nuclear detonation must always guide our work. Regrettably, nuclear doctrines have been strengthened, and military and nuclear confrontation is growing. Modernization and expansion of nuclear arsenals are advancing, as it is clearly shown by the rising military expenditures. The use of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, creates new uncertainties and concerns, while the risks of cyber attacks and manipulation of nuclear arsenals cannot be underestimated. The Doomsday Clock warns 89 seconds to midnight, the closest it has ever been to global disaster. We need to change course. The only way to change this course is a collective recommitment to our multilateral instruments. San Marino continues being firmly committed to the full implementation of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the cornerstone of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, and looks forward to the upcoming NPT Review Conference. We must seize this opportunity to uphold the integrity and credibility of this instrument and finally prove that when we work together constructively, we are able to achieve a successful outcome. San Marino firmly believes in a world free of nuclear weapons and firmly supports the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. This treaty, which complements and strengthens the disarmament regime, is an important step in our path towards a nuclear-free world. San Marino promptly signed and ratified this treaty, showing an unwavering support for a total ban of nuclear weapons. We urge all countries to join this important instrument. Mr. Chair, San Marino is also worried about the risks related to new technologies in the military domain. The rapid advances in artificial intelligence have led to concerning levels of autonomy in conflicts. We must ensure that human control is preserved over life and death decisions. The increasing use of autonomous weapon systems, which challenge human control over the use of force, has deepened humanitarian, legal, ethical, technological, security, and human rights concerns. San Marino believes that international regulations of autonomous weapons systems are urgently needed due to their rapid advancement and to their increasing use on the battlefield. We therefore support the starting of negotiations for a legally binding instrument, which should be based on the two-tier approach to set clear prohibitions and restrictions. Mr. Chair, We are witnessing an unprecedented rise in global military expenditures. San Marino believes that security cannot be based on an arms race. On the contrary, we believe that investing in disarmament, arms control, and non-proliferation in the long term will result in an investment in peace, security, and sustainable development. We must redirect our efforts towards that path. renewing our commitments to disarmament obligations and to peace through diplomacy and cooperation. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of San Marino for her statement. 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 two and a half minutes for the second intervention. I call on the representative of the Republic of Moldova.

Mr. Chair, in relation to the recent remarks by the Russian Federation in response to our repeated call for withdrawal of Russian military forces from our territory, this is to underline that these calls are in line with the constitutional neutrality status of the Republic of Moldova, as well as the 1999 Istanbul Summit outcome documents, and the UNGA resolution A/72/282. It is difficult to understand how one can imagine achieving the reintegration of a country with the presence of foreign military troops on the territory of our country, especially when their presence knowingly violates the neutrality status of the Republic of Moldova. The Republic of Moldova is firmly committed to the Transnistrian settlement process exclusively through peaceful means and rejects any insinuations on claimed economic pressure by the Moldovan authorities on the Transnistrian region of the Republic of Moldova. We'd like to emphasize that we are willing to discuss any proposals on the reintegration of our country, but it's based on the national interests of the Republic of Moldova, respecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders. Today, the Republic of Moldova's policies towards the Transnistria region aim to maintaining the dialogue, preventing security escalation, protecting human rights, and the gradual integration socially and economically of the Transnistria region. The final goal of the settlement process is the full integration of the Transnistria region into the constitutional space of the Republic of Moldova, fiscal, monetary, customs, informational spaces. We are confident that European integration path for the Republic of Moldova will be a catalyst for the country's reintegration. Today, the Transnistrian region enjoys many benefits from the Republic of Moldova-European Union relationship. including those under the DCFTA, Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement. Once again, we'd like to draw the attention of the members of the first committee to the blunt violation of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the Transnistrian region. Any dissenting opinion or opposition by a local activist result in a concrete prison, terms or extremist charges by the Transnistrian regime. This appalling situation of human rights violations require constant attention of the international community. I thank you.

I call on the representative of the Russian Federation.

Distinguished Chair, we continue to provide necessary explanations with regard to the baseless accusations leveled against Russia. We categorically reject the attempt by Moldova to smear Russian peacekeeping forces in Transnistria. During yesterday's meeting, we gave detailed explanations on this topic, and we don't see the need to repeat ourselves. We'll simply emphasize that any actions that will jeopardize Russian armed forces will be viewed in accordance with international law as an attack on the Russian Federation. Distinguished Chair, we categorically reject the baseless accusations by Western states with regard to Russia's nuclear rhetoric. We view these insinuations as nothing more than an element of the frenzied campaign by the West to smear and demonize Russia. The tenets of Russian doctrine when it comes to nuclear deterrence, including their most recent version, are purely defensive in nature. They clearly and rigorously dictate those extreme circumstances under which we would authorize a nuclear response to repel a critical assault. The official statements made by Russian officials on this topic do not go beyond the bounds of these tenets and applicable international obligations for our country. Our warning signals sent to the countries of the West and our determination to protect our fundamental security interests, which they attempt to portray as threats, in reality are fully coherent with the logic of deterrence, that is to say, deterring our adversaries from dangerous escapades. We remind you that it is the fault of Western countries that there is a severe crisis raging in Europe that still has not been quelled. a crisis in which nuclear weapons states are involved. The hostile expanse of Western states and the creation of an anti-Russian bridgehead in Ukraine have jeopardized Russia's national security interests. In addition, due to the reckless actions of the Biden administration and certain European capitals, the confrontation has spiraled into a potentially head-on confrontation between nuclear states. Currently, the situation remains tense. Instead of recognizing their responsibility for the growing strategic risks and striving to curtail these risks, the European camp of the collective West has shown no sign of abandoning the harmful, their harmful and highly dangerous anti-Russian trajectory. The most fanatical European countries, including nuclear states, continue to spout inflammatory rhetoric, brandish their nuclear arsenals, seek means to damage Russia by proxy, hatch plans for provocation, and refuse to abandon the harmful expansion of NATO toward Russian borders, which for us poses a critical strategic risk. And thus, the risk of armed conflict between nuclear states is rising, which all the countries of the nuclear five pledged to prevent in accordance with the joint statement of January 3rd, 2022. What is this, if not irresponsible behavior that heightens the risk of armed conflict involving nuclear states, nuclear powers? One gets the impression that European states continue to believe in their unlimited capacity to control escalation and to exert military pressure on Russia without harm to themselves. This is an extremely dangerous delusion which could lead to catastrophic consequences. This is the essence of our signals and our warnings. This is not a language of threats, but rather the well-established logic of deterrence. Thank you.

I call on the representative of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, for giving me the floor. My delegation is taking the floor in response to the statements made by delegations of Italy and Greece, who blatantly slandered the DPRK's sovereign rights and defensive measures. DPRK has enshrined the possession of its nuclear weapons in its national law. And those member states should have to understand that they are committing acts of openly disregarding and grossly violating the sovereignty of the DPRK by calling for denuclearization of the DPRK. The concept of denuclearization of the DPRK has already lost its meaning and has gone forever. No matter how long and how ardently they are calling for denuclearization of DPRK, We will remain as a nuclear weapons state permanently. DPRK's nuclear deterrent has proved its capability for and reliability in defending the national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the lives and the.

Safety of the peoples from foreign military.

Threats, aggression, and attack, steadily increase the security quite efficient on the Korean peninsula and in the region. Unless the nuclear threat to us coming from outside is terminated, and as long as there exist the imperialist forces that use the nukes for the means of existence of their tyranny, We will never allow an interruption on our road of bolstering our military capabilities to safeguard the security of our state and the well-being of our people, both at present and in the future, but continue to move forward to maintain the edge of our overwhelming strength. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

I now call on the representative of Israel.

Thank you so much, Chair. We were not intending to take the floor again today, but my delegation is compelled to do so in relation to the statement by the Iranian representative. It is clear that the Iranian regime insists in speaking about Gaza to move away the focus from its own failures, from its extremist ideology, its brutality against the Iranian population, and its malign regional ambitions. Everyone knows this regime's true intentions, spreading terror and chaos worldwide in the quest for the destruction of Israel. It does so by developing a military nuclear program and by arming terrorist organizations to the teeth, putting the security of the countries in the Middle East in jeopardy. It does so, of course, in clear violation of arms embargoes and binding UN Security Council resolutions. Colleagues, the Ayatollah regime performs crimes against humanity on a daily basis against its own people. The bloody November demonstrations in 2019 that was crushed by the regime so violently are still fresh in vivid memory. They show how brutal this regime can be when it feels its fall. I would suggest therefore not to take moral advice from an extremist human rights abuser regime. If the Iranian regime care about humanitarian issues, they should provide their population with basic rights and needs instead of wasting billions of dollars on the destruction machinery. It is not surprising therefore that last Monday, the Iranian representative was the only representative trying to defend Hamas atrocities. especially in a day that was marked by hope and opportunity and as Hamas was executing Gazan people in the streets. But this is understandable. It has to be disheartening for the Iranian regime to see the net of terrorism it has built all over the ME crumbling. It must be hard to explain to Iranian citizens why all those billions of dollars were invested in terrorism instead of something constructive like infrastructure, for example. Chair, our sympathies go to the Iranian people, which deserve to live under a humane regime that does not keep them in misery while attempting to spread terror and chaos across the region and the world. As for the false claims of the Iranian representative regarding the Israeli operation to neutralize the existential and imminent threat posed by the Iranian regime's nuclear weapons program, it will be addressed in due time by my delegation. Lastly, Chair, as a people that has suffered genocide, and in respect to its victims, we beg delegations to refrain from abusing from that term. The penalization of the term caused a grave harm to the moral standards that should guide us all. Thank you, Chair.

I now call on the representative of the Syrian Arab Republic.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I asked for the floor to set things straight on what was mentioned in terms of a recent report by the OPCW, which mentioned the fact that some nerve gas indicators were found in samples recently collected from a site in Syria. Here, I'd like to clarify that those indicators mentioned in the OPCW's report were found in an abandoned location that was recently identified thanks to the cooperation and assistance of the government of Syria. These indicators were found in soil and environmental samples from the area surrounding the said location. My delegation would like to reiterate what was mentioned in the statement of Syria delivered by the permanent representative in today's session in terms of our complete and transparent cooperation on the ground with the opcw and to reiterate Syria's respect to the convention on chemical weapons and our positive reengagement with the opcw to get rid of the heavy inheritance that the new Syrian government has inherited from the previous regime and we are committed to our obligations to as per the agreement therefore Syria in July called for an a session an exceptional an extraordinary session of the OPCW's council where many countries in addition to the general director of the organization, noted the damage caused by the Israeli strikes on Syrian territory, which harmed the cooperation between Syria and the OPCW. As for what was mentioned in terms of Syrian internal affairs, my delegation confirms that any foreign interference in Syria's internal affairs or any exaggerations and hyperbole in describing what is happening there under claims and pretexts of caring for a certain component of the Syrian society. These claims are part of attempts to take advantage of the sensitive transitional period that our country is experiencing to make gains that everyone is aware of, which will only further complicate matters instead of helping to settle them. And I'd like here to note Syria's cooperation with UN bodies and the permission we gave for their committees to enter the mentioned areas and regions. Cooperation here is a priority to the Syrian government, but there are some states that are attempting to cause dissent among Syrians. This will impact the entire region. Syria, which has repeatedly expressed its desire to build partnerships on a basis of joint interests and within the framework of respect for international law and the purposes and objectives of the UN Charter and the implementation of United Nations resolutions. Syria needs in its path to recovery, it needs the support of the international community and not interference in its internal affairs. I thank you, Chair.

I now call on the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. We categorically reject the Israeli regime's absurd allegations. Engaging in a disinformation campaign does not absolve the regime of its brutal crimes and genocide against Palestinians over the past seven decades, particularly over the last two years. For over three decades, the Zionist regime has propagated the claim that Iran seeks to develop nuclear weapons, thereby deceiving certain states and manipulating public opinion. But where, indeed, is this alleged nuclear bomb? This reflects the infamous Nazi propaganda method. A lie told once remains a lie, but a lie repeated a thousand times begins to be accepted as truth. The international community must not allow such fabrication to distort reality. The Israeli regime, which has gone so far as to weaponize even food and water against innocent civilians in Gaza, has over the past eight decades carried out more than 3,000 terrorist operations, displaced over seven million Palestinians, martyred and wounded hundreds of thousands, and imprisoned more than one million Palestinians. This is the very same regime that has launched military aggressions against its neighbors, remains a party to none of the international instruments on disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and maintains hundreds of nuclear warheads in its own arsenal. The Israeli regime, burdened by such a dark record lacks any credibility to lecture other states and express sympathy with Iranian people. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

I now call on the representative of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am exercising my right of reply to comments made by the Iranian delegation earlier this afternoon. The United Kingdom is committed to pursuing a diplomatic solution to ensure that Iran shall never seek, acquire or develop a nuclear weapon. That is why, on the 28th of August, the United Kingdom, France and Germany notified the Security Council of Iran's clear and deliberate non-compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. Iran's nuclear escalation has been detailed in more than 60 reports by the IAEA over six years.

It includes the accumulation of.

A high enriched uranium stockpile, which lacks any credible civilian justification and is unprecedented for a state without a nuclear weapons program. In its vote on the 19th of September, the Security Council fulfilled the necessary steps of the snapback process set out in resolution 2231. Therefore, UN sanctions targeting Iranian proliferation were reimposed on the 27th of September. All member states are obliged to fully comply with these sanctions as required by the UN Charter.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I now call on the representative of the United States.

Thank you, Chair. President Trump has not wavered. Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. I'd like to associate the United States delegation with the remarks just delivered by the ambassador of the UK. And add that the UN provisions reimposed on September 27th are not arbitrary, but instead narrowly scoped to address the threat posed by Iran's nuclear, missile, and conventional arms programs and support for terrorism. Their return does not preclude later removal through diplomacy. The United States remains open to direct talks with Iran to achieve a lasting, peaceful resolution to the nuclear issue. Iran must also fully comply and cooperate with the IAEA and fully implement its safeguards obligations. Thank you, Chair.

Distinguished delegates, We have exhausted the time available for us this meeting. We will meet tomorrow afternoon at 3 p.m. sharp in this conference room. We shall continue with the general debate on all disarmament and related international security agenda items. And I appeal to all delegations to be punctual to enable us to proceed with our work in a timely manner. And thank you very much, the interpreters, for staying with us for a bit longer. The meeting is adjourned.