First Committee, 18th plenary meeting - General Assembly, 81st session
General Assembly
Date: 22 October 2026
Language: English
Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/en/ga/c1/81/18
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1st Committee · Chair [17:21]:

Distinguished delegates, the 18th meeting of the Disarmament and International Security Committee, First Committee of the 81st session of the General Assembly, is called to order. The Committee will now continue its thematic discussion under the cluster on conventional weapons. The first speaker on the list of speakers is the distinguished representative of Venezuela. You have the floor.


Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) [17:59]:

Thank you very much, Chairman. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela reaffirms its firm commitment to multilateralism respect for international law and the maintenance of international peace and security, principles that underpin the mandate of this first committee and the Charter of the United Nations itself. My delegation has consistently maintained a long-standing position in favour of general and complete disarmament. We believe that combating the illicit trafficking in small arms and light weapons requires a comprehensive approach based on international cooperation, shared responsibility, and respect for the sovereignty of states. We share the overall concern that these weapons continue to fuel conflicts, organized violence, and insecurity in various regions of the world, with serious consequences for the development of our peoples. This situation requires us to address not only the effects, but also the structural causes that facilitate the illegal production, transfer and circulation of these weapons. This is a global challenge, since it affects stability and the comprehensive development of nations. It also has a significant socio-economic impact on millions of innocent people. In this context, Venezuela believes that it is essential to strengthen controls over the illicit manufacture of and trade in small arms and light weapons, including those produced using new additive manufacturing technologies. Further, we reiterate that arms transfers must be made exclusively to legally authorized governments and entities in accordance with international law and national legislation. We acknowledge the progress made under the Programme of Action and the International Tracing Instrument, and we take note with satisfaction of the outcomes of the Fourth Review Conference in 2024 and the Ninth Biennial Meeting of States. However, significant gaps in implementation remain, particularly for developing countries. For this reason, Venezuela stresses the need to strengthen international cooperation and assistance, including through the prompt establishment of the standing fellowship program on small arms and light weapons, aimed at building technical capacity and strengthening national institutions. Finally, we welcome the establishment of the new United Nations funding mechanism to support the implementation of the Programme of Action for the International Tracing Instrument, only through genuine commitment to multilateralism.


1st Committee · Chair [21:03]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Venezuela for her statement. The Committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Ukraine. You have the floor.


Ukraine [21:16]:

Ukraine aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union and its member states. We would like to make a few additional remarks in our national capacity. We continue to support the existing international instruments in the field of conventional arms control, including the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, the Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons, as well as the Global Framework for Through-Life Conventional Munitions Management. Ukraine welcomes the progress achieved by the Group of Governmental Experts on Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems, particularly the adoption by consensus of its substantive report. We consider the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons the appropriate forum for these discussions and look forward to the seventh review conference adopting an ambitious negotiating mandate without prejudging the nature of a future instrument. Mr. Chair, Russian forces systematically employ a wide range of conventional weapons, including ballistic and cruise missiles, hypersonic missiles, attack drones, and cluster munitions, in indiscriminate attacks against Ukrainian cities, residential areas, and civilian infrastructure. Today, on 22 October, Russia once again demonstrated its complete disregard for international humanitarian law. A Russian ballistic missile equipped with a cluster warhead struck the historic heart of Kyiv, near the Holy Presentation Monastery and the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The attack damaged religious buildings, residential properties, shops, cafes, and other civilian infrastructure. There were no military facilities in the vicinity. These strikes are part of Russia's systematic campaign of terror against the Ukrainian people. They constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law, including the fundamental principles of distinction, proportionality, and precautions in attack. Ukraine calls on the international community to respond decisively by strengthening sanctions against Russia, preventing the transfer of critical technologies and components used in Russian weapons production, and increasing military assistance to Ukraine, particularly air defence systems and ammunition. Mr. Chair, Russia's war of aggression is also being sustained by military and military-technical cooperation with Iran and the DPRK. Both countries have supplied Russia with weapons and ammunition. The DPRK has gone even further by deploying its troops to support Russia's military operations against Ukraine. Russia continues to use DPRK-origin weapons, including KN-23 ballistic missiles, in attacks against Ukrainian cities. Such military cooperation, in violation of relevant Security Council resolutions, poses a serious threat to international peace and security, extending far beyond Ukraine and the European continent. We call on all UN Member States to unequivocally condemn this cooperation, demand full compliance with relevant Security Council resolutions, and ensure accountability for violations of international law. We further call on all States to immediately cease any direct or indirect assistance that enables Russia to sustain its war machine and continue its war of aggression against Ukraine. Thank you, Mr. Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [24:07]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Ukraine for his statement. The Committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Israel. You have the floor.


Israel [24:19]:

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 into the hands of oppressive regimes, terrorist organizations, and terror-sponsoring states. The Iranian regime has systematically supplied terrorist organizations beyond its borders with weapons, ammunition, training, and the logistical means to employ them. The continuous pattern of arms transfers and facilitation of military activities demonstrate deliberate, state-directed empowerment of terrorist actors as an instrument of Iran's aggressive strategy against Israel and other states in the region. Chair, as a signatory state to the ATT, and since the entry of the treaty into force, Israel has participated in the Conference of the State Parties. and has attached great importance to the discussions held in this forum and to the treaty's principles. Many of the treaty's principles and standards are already embodied in Israel's robust export control mechanisms. However, over the past few years, we have been witnessing deterioration of this forum. We have seen its abuse by some participants in pursuit of their own interests, as well as multiple attempts to improperly rewrite the treaty's provisions, including participation of NGOs with clear ties to designated terror groups. Israel hopes this negative trend will change so that the ATT's discussion will return to focus on professional aspects of the treaty. Israel values the CCW and recognizes its uniqueness as the main IHL-focused framework in the field of conventional weapons that includes the most relevant actors. This forum's strength lies in its commitment and ability to strike the appropriate balance between military and humanitarian consideration, and it must maintain this approach in all its future efforts. With regard to laws, the progress that has been made in the discussion within the CCW should be highlighted, especially in the light of the adoption of the final report by the GGE on laws in September, presenting a significant milestone of this highly important topic.


1st Committee · Chair [26:47]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Israel for her statement. The Committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Zimbabwe. You have the floor. The floor is for Zimbabwe. Microphone for Zimbabwe, please.


Zimbabwe [27:15]:

Thank you, Chair. My delegation aligns with the statements delivered on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement and the African Group. I will add the following remarks in a national capacity. Chair, the illicit proliferation and circulation of small arms and light weapons and their ammunition continue to fuel conflicts, terrorism, transnational organized crime, and armed violence globally. As Zimbabwe prepares to assume its seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 term, we will remain committed to advancing the African Union's Silencing the Guns by 2030 initiative, consistent with Africa's Agenda 2063. Zimbabwe remains committed to the full implementation of the Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons and its international tracing instrument. We welcome the outcomes of the ninth biennial meeting of states, particularly its focus on implementation, preventing diversion, international cooperation and assistance, and developments in weapons manufacturing, technology and design. We remain concerned about the illicit 3D printed weapons, polymer components and modular designs, which present challenges for marking, identification, record keeping and tracing. Zimbabwe therefore commends the work of the open-ended technical expert group in addressing these challenges. Chair. Zimbabwe underscores the centrality of the global framework for through-life conventional ammunition management in promoting safe, secure, and sustainable ammunition management throughout its life cycle. We look forward to the 2027 Meeting of States as an opportunity to strengthen practical implementation, international cooperation, and technical assistance. Chair, the increased use of artificial intelligence in the military domain raises serious legal, ethical, and humanitarian concerns. Zimbabwe emphasizes the need to maintain human control in all aspects of warfare and to ensure compliance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law. We therefore reiterate our call for early negotiations on an internationally legally binding instrument to regulate autonomous weapons systems. In conclusion, Chair, Zimbabwe reaffirms its commitment to multilateral disarmament processes and effective conventional arms regulations. We call for sustained international cooperation, capacity building, technical assistance, awareness raising, and education for disarmament, particularly for developing countries. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [29:59]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Zimbabwe for her statement. The Committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Mozambique.


Mozambique [30:14]:

Mr. Chair, I thank you. Mozambique attaches extreme importance to the work of the First Committee regarding conventional weapons. recognizing that the uncontrolled proliferation and transfer of small arms and light weapons continues to pose a direct threat to international peace, national sovereignty, and sustainable development. We reaffirm our commitment to international legal instruments, including the United Nations Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons, the International Tracing Instruments, the Arms Trade Treaty, and the recently adopted Global Framework for Life Management of ammunition, and we are firm that effective, comprehensive implementation of these frameworks is essential to save lives and protect vulnerable people. Mr. Chair, the deep link between the proliferation of conventional weapons, transnational organized crime, and violent extremism is a painful reality in our region, and Mozambique is an example of this. The country continues to face acts of terrorism in Cabo Delgado province, where terrorist groups exploit the flow and trafficking of conventional weapons and ammunition to sustain violence, displacing innocent populations and destabilizing economic livelihoods. This serious security challenge in Cabo Delgado serves as clear and compelling proof that the control of arms flows is not a theoretical exercise, but rather a vital imperative for national security and humanitarian stability. It is because of our firsthand experience with the devastating consequences of arming non-state actors that Mozambique strongly support all multilateral and regional efforts aimed at regulating, tracing, and halting the illicit trade in conventional weapons. To effectively combat this cause, international cooperation and capacity building must be significantly strengthened. We call upon the international community to provide predictable and sustainable financial and technical support to our national efforts in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals. In conclusion, Mozambique reiterates that peace, security, and economic progress are strictly linked. And only through genuine multilateral partnership, rigorous compliance with international commitment, and decisive actions against illicit arms proliferation, we can build a safer world for all. I thank you, Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [33:03]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Mozambique for his statement. I understand that the distinguished representative of Israel hasn't finished her statement, so I give her the floor for one final minute. You have the floor.


Israel [33:20]:

We just wish to reiterate that the final report of the GGE on laws is a result of multilateral discussion conducted under a clear mandate. It lays out the element of an instrument that does not prejudge its nature, and it should be viewed as such. This achievement by the GGE is a current example of why the CCW is the most appropriate form to continue this discussion on this topic. I thank you, Chair, and thank you for letting me finish my.


1st Committee · Chair [33:48]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Israel for her statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished permanent representative of Japan to the Conference on Disarmament. You have the floor.


Japan · Permanent Representative [34:02]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Japan is deeply concerned about the deteriorating international security situation resulting in civilian casualties caused by the use of conventional weapons. Japan calls upon all the states parties to the relevant international instruments to renew their commitments and encourages states that have not yet done so to accede to them. Urgent action is required to address illicit trade in small arms and light weapons. Japan emphasizes the central role of the program of action and welcomes the successful conclusion of the BMS-9 and the open-ended technical experts group. Together with Colombia and South Africa, Japan has submitted a draft resolution on the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects, demonstrating the international community's collective determination to address this issue, and strongly hopes for its adoption by consensus. Japan commends Zambia's leadership as this year's President of the APMBC. Together with Zambia and Belgium, Japan has introduced a draft resolution on the Convention and requests the strong support of all delegations. Japan continues to support affected countries and regions with an emphasis on strengthening national ownership. Japan welcomes the successful conclusion of the third review conference of the CCM and commends the Lao PDR for its leadership. We urge all the states parties to implement the Vientiane Capital Action Plan. Japan welcomes the adoption of the substantive report by consensus of the GGE on laws under the CCW. reflecting the discussions over the past three years under the able chairmanship of Ambassador Robert Indenbosch of the Netherlands. Japan strongly supports the continued consideration of this issue under the CCW and will participate constructively in the upcoming review conference. Japan also sees a pressing need to advance discussions on the responsible use of artificial intelligence in the military domain based on international law. To conclude, Japan remains committed to safeguarding human security and mitigating the humanitarian suffering stemming from conventional weapons, and stands ready to work with all stakeholders within the relevant frameworks. Thank you, Mr. Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [36:42]:

I thank the distinguished Permanent Representative of Japan for her statement. The Committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Cambodia. You have the floor.


Cambodia [36:56]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Cambodia aligns itself with the statements of the ASEAN and NAM, and I wish to make the following remarks in my national capacity. Peace and security are facing serious challenges posed by weakening arms control mechanisms, rising military expenditures, and the weaponization of emerging domains against this backdrop, Cambodia wish to highlight the following points. First, Cambodia commitment to the anti-personal mine ban convention has been well recognized on the international forum. Specifically, from 1992 to April 2026, Cambodia released approximately 3,600 square kilometers of explosive ordnance contaminated land, including 2,586 square kilometers contaminated by the anti-personnel mines. Our efforts remain consistent with the objective of achieving a mine-free Cambodia by 2030. Furthermore, we are determined to continue sharing our demining expertise with other mine-affected countries. Cambodia's mining commitment has moved into international arena with approximately 10,000 Cambodian peacekeepers dispatched to 12 United Nations peacekeeping missions since 2006, serving primarily as the miners. Second, mine action and victim assistance program remains significant and must be enhanced to address the enduring humanitarian consequences of explosive remnants of war. We call for enhancing these programs, which are important to save lives and support victims.

Currently, nearly 3,000 square kilometers across 335 Cambodian villages have been affected by approximately.

120,000 to 130,000 artillery shells. These affected areas contain an estimated six to seven million submunitions. Unexploded submunitions, including cluster munitions, threaten human lives, impede recovery, and hinder the safe return of.

Internally displaced persons, IDPs. Third, Cambodia remains concerned about the destabilizing application of lethal autonomous weapon system.


1st Committee · Chair [39:57]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Cambodia for his statement, and the Committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Liberia. You have the floor.


Liberia [40:11]:

Mr. Chair, Liberia aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the African Group and the Non-Aligned Movement. I will address the following points in my national capacity. First, diversion. Liberia's recovery taught us that peace holds only when weapons stay in authorized hands. Most illicit weapons begin as legal weapons. All states, including those outside the Arms Trade Treaty, can assess export risks, verify and use, share information, and report to the United Nations Register of Conventional Arms. Preventing diversion is a shared responsibility. It cannot rest on affected states alone. Liberia, therefore, supports the draft resolutions on the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, on assistance to states in curbing it, and on the Arms Trade Treaty. Second, ammunition. In July 2003, the supplies of mortar rounds allowed the shelling of Monrovia, our capital. Thousands of civilians were killed or wounded, and this is a well-taught lesson. A rifle can last for decades. Ammunition decide whether violence continues the next day. Liberia supports the draft decision on ammunition management and looks forward to the first meeting of states on the global framework in 2027. We hope it will deliver practical, nationally owned recommendations backed by predictable support for safe storage, accounting, and disposal. Third, the protection of civilians. What Monrovia suffered is now repeated in cities and towns across several regions. Liberia was among the first states to endorse the political declaration on explosive weapons in populated areas and encourages others to join. As a state party to the Mine Ban Convention, Liberia supports the draft resolution on its implementation and the norm it upholds. Fourth. The impact of armed violence on women and girls too often long after a peace agreement is signed. Firearms left over from war are turned over to women and girls. Liberia supports the collection of data on how armed violence affects women, men, girls, and boys differently. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, states here often differ on many issues, yet none of us is safer when weapons reach the wrong hands, and no civilian should pay more for our failure to agree. Liberia has known both. We will work with different delegations, exporting and affecting states alike, to turn that common interest into lasting results. And I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [43:03]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Liberia for his statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Paraguay. You have the floor.


Paraguay [43:19]:

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Mr. Chairman, conventional weapons, particularly small arms and light weapons, their parts, components, and accessories needed for their use, continue to be used by transnational organized crime to threaten peace and security in all spheres as a consequence of unauthorized users. Transnational organised crime in all its manifestations continues to constitute one of the greatest threats to peace and sustainable development, particularly in the developing world. In this regard, combating organised crime is one of the priorities of our Government. We have blocked the import of these weapons so as to improve the security of the marketing of weapons within our national territory. This has been gradually lifted, but we continue to take security control measures. Paraguay's commitment to the international community in the field of conventional weapons is reflected in its status as a party to the vast majority of relevant international and regional instruments. In 2026, we are on the governing body of the global framework for through-life conventional ammunition management. We hope that this will be positive in the years ahead. We highlight that violence has a differentiated impact on women and men. In my country, 35% of femicides are caused by small arms and light weapons. The disproportionate impact of the problem on women affects their full development and compromises their full active life in our country. As a landlocked developing country, we are in a strategic position for commercial transit, both by river and by air. This means that our government needs to make extraordinary efforts to strike a balance between two fundamental considerations for our development, that is, securing our territory and facilitating trade. We underscore the importance of cooperation between our national authorities, capacity building, and strengthening national procedures for the control of firearms and ammunition. In Paraguay, we have modern legislation that incorporates into domestic law all of the commitments we've made in international agreements. However, this is insufficient to effectively combat transnational criminal networks, and this needs to be done collectively. Thank you very much.


1st Committee · Chair [45:55]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Paraguay for his statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Kuwait. You have the floor.


Kuwait [46:07]:

Bidaa Atan.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The state of Kuwait would like to associate itself with the statement delivered by the Arab Group and the Non-Aligned Movement. The challenge that is facing the international community in the field of conventional weapons is not simply limited to regulating the legal trade in them, but also in preventing them falling in the wrong hands and to guarantee that they are not used to undermine the sovereignty of states or threaten the security of their peoples. Modern conflicts have proven that the illicit flows of weapons and ammunition and falling into the hands of armed group non-state armed groups and armed personnel do not prolong the conflicts not just prolong the conflict, but also undermine the efforts to achieve peace and development by states. Therefore, the State of Kuwait stresses the importance of enhancing international cooperation to combat illicit trade in conventional weapons, while keeping in mind the principles of the United Nations Charter and respecting states' sovereign right in meeting their legitimate defense needs. Moreover, we stress the importance of a balanced and non-selective implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty in a manner that would guarantee that exporting and importing states shoulder their responsibilities without unnecessary restrictions being imposed on the legitimate rights of states. Mr. Chair, the State of Kuwait renews its support for the full and effective implementation of the United Nations program of work on the prevention of the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons and to end all aspects of it. And here we accord special importance to the international framework on conventional ammunition and throughout the lifespan. And we are proud to be among the vice presidents voted for this meeting, and we are honored to be candidates to the voice to the position of vice president and the upcoming conference in 2027. The dangerous developments that our region is witnessing confirm that the dangers of the proliferation of conventional weapons are not restricted to internal conflicts, but rather they threaten the stability and security of countries. The Iranian attacks that have targeted Kuwait and the member states of the GCC and the and the Kingdom of Jordan including the aggression perpetrated by the Iran-backed militias, have also used drones and other weapons to target civilians and their vital infrastructure. We renew our condemnation of these attacks, and we confirm the need to fully abide by Security Council Resolution 2817 of the year 2026. In the same context, the State of Kuwait renews its condemnation of the attacks being conducted by the Houthi militias against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and we affirm that preventing arms the need to prevent arms from reaching armed groups.


1st Committee · Chair [49:09]:

Distinguished representative of Kuwait, for his statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of El Salvador. You have the floor.


El Salvador [49:24]:

Thank you, Vice-Chair. Conventional weapons continue to have serious humanitarian, social and economic consequences in conflict situations and beyond. For El Salvador, our efforts in arms control must continue to place the protection of people and the prevention of violence and strengthening national capacities at the heart. In this context, we reaffirm our commitment to the POA and to its international tracing instrument. We welcome the outcomes of the ninth biennial meeting of states and we highlight the importance of progressing in its implementation, particularly with regard to international cooperation. For developing countries, international cooperation and assistance remain essential to translating our multilateral commitments into sustainable national capacities. In addition, we believe it is necessary to continue strengthening synergies between the POA and other relevant instruments, including the global framework for through-life conventional ammunition management. Chairman, El Salvador wishes to particularly emphasize the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention. This is an instrument that represents one of the major achievements of humanitarian disarmament. We are deeply concerned that anti-personnel mines continue to sow death, injury, and suffering long after conflicts have ended. Their consequences span generations, undermine community development, and pose lasting obstacles to the social and economic inclusion of survivors. El Salvador has shouldered responsibilities under the Convention's implementation architecture and continues to grant particular importance to victims. Chair, our commitment to disarmament also covers other instruments aimed at reducing the suffering caused by conventional weapons. We reaffirm our support for the full implementation of the Convention on Cluster Munitions and the Political Declaration on Protecting Civilians from the Humanitarian Consequences of the Use of Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas. Chair, finally, El Salvador reaffirms the importance of incorporating the perspectives and experiences of women, survivors, persons with disabilities, and affected communities in the design and implementation of arms control policies. Humanitarian disarmament cannot be measured solely by the number of weapons destroyed or the area cleared of arms contamination. It should also be measured by our ability to restore rights, and enable affected individuals and communities to rebuild their lives in dignity. Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [52:21]:

I thank the distinguished representative of El Salvador for her statement. The Committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Uganda. You have the floor.


Uganda [52:40]:

Chair, distinguished delegates, Uganda aligns itself with the statements delivered by the NAM and the Africa Group and wishes to make the following remarks. Uganda remains deeply concerned about the humanitarian consequences associated with conventional weapons, particularly those that cause excessive injury or have indiscriminate effects. These weapons continue to inflict long-lasting harm on civilian populations, obstruct development and challenge the effective implementation of international humanitarian law. Addressing their impact is therefore not only a security imperative, but a humanitarian responsibility. As chair of the 2025 meeting of High Contracting Parties on the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, Uganda attaches great importance to strengthening the CCW as the primary multilateral framework for balancing military necessity with humanitarian considerations. The CCW's protocol-based structure provides a flexible and inclusive platform for states to address both long-standing and emerging challenges. in the conventional weapons domain. Uganda strongly supports ongoing efforts within the CCW to enhance compliance, promote universalization, deepen technical cooperation, welcome the continued work of the protocols two and five, including the efforts to reduce the risks posed by mines, booby traps, and other devices that affect civilians long after conflicts have ended. We also underscore the importance of constructive evidence-based dialogue on emerging technologies, including autonomous weapons systems. Uganda believes that technological developments must be guided by international humanitarian law and by shared commitment to ensuring that new capabilities do not exacerbate humanitarian risks. Uganda encourages all Member States to continue engaging actively in these processes to share best practices, strengthen national implementation measures. We reaffirm our readiness to work with all delegations to advance practical, balanced, and consensus-driven autonomous outcomes. In conclusion, Uganda remains committed to supporting all efforts aimed at mitigating the humanitarian impact of conventional weapons and ensuring that international cooperation remains at the center of collective responsibility. Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [55:28]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Uganda for his statement. The Committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Haiti. You have the floor.


Haiti [55:41]:

On behalf of my delegation, I would like to convey my congratulations to you, sir. The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons is a serious threat to peace, security, and sustainable development. It boosts criminal gangs. And for Haiti, this threat is not an abstract one, but is a daily reality that strikes us on a daily basis, undermines the stability of our institutions. The trade in SALWs and munitions compromises our efforts to establish peace and the public order. We cannot act alone. We are calling for bolstered international cooperation based on shared responsibility, respect, and this in all in line of this with the Security Council resolutions. We reiterate the need to have swift implementation of the UNPOA of SALWs and also the tracing instrument. We underscore that it is important to keep stocks safe and improve marking and tracing of ammunition and to appropriately train police and judicial workers. We commend the work conducted by the UN in the region. Combating this traffic also requires commitment to work against the criminal groups that facilitate the circulation, crossing borders of these weapons and munitions. We need technical assistance to ensure that states can cope appropriately. Haiti believes that lasting security can only be ensured when the illicit trade in arms is brought under control. Therefore, we would call upon the international community to have coordinated, measurable efforts made working against SALWs and protecting us is ensuring that all nations will enjoy a better future. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [57:52]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Haiti for his statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished permanent representative of Brazil to the Conference on Disarmament. You have the floor.


Brazil · Permanent Representative [58:08]:

Conventional weapons continue to inflict devastating humanitarian consequence, fueling conflicts, organized crime, and instability. The UN Program of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons and the Arms Trade Treaty remain essential and complementary pillars of conventional arms control requiring stronger implementation. Brazil firmly supports the global framework for through life conventional ammunition management, secure stockpiles, effective marking and tracing, and international cooperation are indispensable to preventing diver- diversion. The 2027 meeting of states should prioritize capacity building and implementation challenges faced by developing countries. Mr. Chair, Brazil remains committed to advancing international regulation of lethal autonomous weapon systems. The rapid integration of artificial intelligence into military capabilities demands urgent multilateral action. We welcome the substantive progress achieved by the GGE on LOS, whose agreed elements provide a solid basis for negotiating an international instrument. Human control must remain central to decisions involving force, including nuclear command and control. The upcoming CCW review conference must advance concrete negotiations of a protocol based on the GGE report. Brazil is deeply concerned about the erosion of the international norm prohibiting anti-personnel landmines, particularly following recent withdrawals from the Ottawa Convention. This development undermines decades of humanitarian progress and threatens civilian populations long after conflicts end.

We urge all

states to uphold the convention, strengthen its universalization, and reaffirm their commitment to a world free of anti-personnel weapons.

Mr. Chair.

Brazil reaffirms its commitment to strengthen multilateral convention arms control, upholding international monetary law, and ensuring that military and technological development never come at the expense of humanity. Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [1:00:56]:

I thank the distinguished Permanent Representative of Brazil to the CD for his statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Niger. You have the floor.


Niger [1:01:12]:

Chairman, my delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the group of African states, and we'd like to add the following comments in our national capacity. The proliferation and illicit circulation of small arms and light weapons and their ammunition continues to fuel terrorism and insecurity in the Sahel. These weapons reach terrorist groups through clandestine trafficking networks involving private or even state actors. Niger deeply deplores the role played by some states in providing these in flagrant violation of the positions that they defend in international fora in favor of disarmament and peace. Far from undermining our determination, this has led our country, along with other countries in the Sahel, to step up our efforts to build our operational capacities within our security and defense forces and to step up our operations to dismantle trafficking networks and dry up the supplies for terrorist groups. Chair, at the national level, Niger has made the fight against the proliferation of small arms and light weapons a security priority. This commitment is seen through the creation of a national commission to collect and control illicit weapons. This is in charge of collecting, uh, and restricting illicit weapons in the country as well as, uh, they. use within the population. This was further built on through, um, our ammunition and stockpile management, and, but through the ratification of the Arms Trade Treaty, as well as the implementation of the UN Program of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons and the International Tracing Instrument. At the legislative and regulatory level, our country is continuing to build our legal framework, particularly with the adoption in April 2026 of a bill to better define and strengthen traceability and to avoid diversion of weapons. Finally, we hail the work of the ninth biennial meeting of states on small arms and light weapons in June 2026, particularly the focus on risks of diversion posed by new manufacturing technologies. In this regard, we call on states to fully shoulder their responsibilities in arms control, transfer and diversion for terrorist groups. We also underscore the importance of ensuring cooperation with international bodies to support the efforts of countries that are most vulnerable, particularly in the Sahel. Thank you very much.


1st Committee · Chair [1:04:05]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Niger for his statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Nigeria. You have the floor.


Nigeria [1:04:20]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Nigeria aligns itself with the statement delivered by NAM and that of the African Group, and we have the following remarks. Nigeria remains deeply concerned by the continued illicit proliferation, diversion, and uncontrolled circulation of small arms and light weapons, which fuel terrorism, violence, extremism, organized crime, and communal conflict, particularly across Africa and the Sahel region. These challenges continue to undermine regional stability, human security, and sustainable development. My delegation reaffirmed its strong commitment to the full and effective implementation of the POA and the international tracing instrument. Nigeria welcome the commencement of the open-headed technical expert group on development in small arm and light weapon manufacturing, technology and design. We emphasize the need for sustained attention to emerging technologies that could undermine existing national and international control measures. Mr. Chair, as a state party to the Arms Trade Treaty, Nigeria remain committed to promoting responsible international harm transfer and preventing the aversion to unauthorized recipient. Nigeria equally recognize the importance of the global framework for true life conventional ammunition management and look forward to its first meeting of states in 2027. We therefore underscore the need for practical international assistance to strengthen ammunition safety, security, and accountability, particularly in developing countries. My delegation reiterates its support for the establishment of a dedicated United Nations fellowship program on small arms and light weapons, alongside sustained technical assistance, capacity building, and technology transfer. Such cooperation must be predictable, accessible, and responsive to the need and priority of affected states. Nigeria remain concerned by the humanitarian, legal, and security implication of lethal autonomous weapons system, where we affirm that human judgment, control, and accountability must remain central to decision involving the use of force and support international effort toward a legally binding instrument that address the risk posed by this system consistent with international humanitarian law. Nigeria call for renewed political commitment, strengthening multilateral cooperation and collective responsibility in combating the illicit proliferation of conventional weapon, while safeguarding the legitimate security interests of all states. Full version of this statement can be found on the statement. Thank you, Mr. Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [1:06:55]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Nigeria for his statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Iran. You have the floor.


Iran (Islamic Republic of) [1:07:09]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. We align ourselves with the statement delivered by Indonesia on behalf of the NAM. The inherent right of a state to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter must be fully upheld together with their sovereign authority to determine their defense requirements. As a victim of foreign-backed terrorism and a country affected by organized crime and drug trafficking linked to the illicit small arms and light weapons, Iran attaches great importance to the UNPOA and the ITI. Iran has strengthened its legal frameworks and regional cooperation and has submitted 11 national reports since 2003, most recently in 2026, detailing its efforts. Despite these national efforts, the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons and conventional ammunitions remains a grave concern. Addressing these challenges require action on both the supply and demand sides, with particular responsibility resting on producing and exporting states to prevent illicit cross-border trafficking and disrupt illicit routes and networks. The mandate of the open-ended technical expert group explicitly prioritized concrete recommendations on international cooperation and assistance alongside examining technological developments. Adequate resources must accompany new expectations. We therefore call for concrete, predictable, non-discriminatory, and sustainable assistance, including financing, capacity building, technology transfer, and equipment. We welcome the dedicated fellowship programs on small arms and light weapons and conventional ammunition, and stress the importance of developed countries allocating the necessary financial resources to the new United Nations funding mechanism in a timely manner. We regret that the ninth biennial meeting of states failed to adopt its outcome document by consensus. Future deliberations must respect agreed mandates and address the concerns of all delegations to preserve consensus, which is fundamental to the legitimacy, inclusiveness, and effectiveness of the UNPOA and ITI processes. Arms transfer to aggressor and occupying powers in violation of international law are prohibited. Continued arms supplies to the Israeli regime, despite its war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide in Gaza, and its aggression against Iran and other regional states, including through white phosphorus, depleted uranium, incendiary weapons, and cluster munitions, implicate supplying states, particularly the US and certain Western states, in these violations. We call for an immediate comprehensive arms embargo on the Israeli regime. I thank you, Mr. Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [1:10:10]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Iran for his statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Uruguay. You have the floor.


Uruguay [1:10:29]:

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice Chair. The illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons and their munitions represents a serious threat to the security of our countries. It fuels armed violence and facilitates the activities of organised crime. For Uruguay, this issue has a direct impact on public safety. during the first half of this year, 74.9% of murders were committed with firearms, compared with 63.9% in the same period in 2025. In light of this, Uruguay has been strengthening controls, registers and the traceability of arms and munitions, including ballistic identification, in order to prevent the diversion towards illicit flows and to improve investigation capacities. We reaffirm our commitment to the Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons and its international tracing instrument. We welcome the results of the Ninth Biennial Meeting of States held in June, and we underscore the of the technical open-ended working group on the challenges posed by modular weapons, polymeric materials and 3D printing for marking and tracing. Transparency is another priority for us. We are concerned by the fall in national reporting relating to the programme of action from approximately 120 in 2018 to 83 this year. It is essential to reverse this trend and to bolster information exchange mechanisms. In addition, we reaffirm our support for the Arms Trade Treaty, in particular for the thorough application of Articles 6 and 7 on transfer bans and export assessments. These obligations are essential to stop weapons contributing to serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law. At the regional level, we are grateful for the work of UNLIRIC in building control, tracing, and safe management capacities for arms and munitions. We also highlight the 44th meeting of the working group on firearms and munitions of Mercosur and associated states. This was held on the 1st and 2nd of October in Montevideo. This mechanism allows us to strengthen the exchange of information and cooperation to prevent cross-border trafficking in weapons and strengthen tracing mechanisms for seized weapons. We support the global framework for through life conventional ammunition management, Chairman, particularly its commitment to preventing the diversion, improving security and strengthening controls on ammunition. As we look ahead to the first meeting of states in 2027, we hope to be able to see further progress for another process, The full statement will be uploaded. Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [1:13:31]:

Thank the distinguished representative of Uruguay for her statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished permanent representative of Ghana. You have the floor.


Ghana · Permanent Representative [1:13:46]:

Ghana aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the Africa Group and the Non-Aligned Movement and offers the following remarks in its national capacity. Ghana remains deeply concerned about the illicit trade, diversion, and uncontrolled circulation of small arms and light weapons in view of the devastating consequences on human life, peace, security, and stability. These weapons fuel terrorism, organized crime, and armed violence with devastating humanitarian and socioeconomic consequences. As the United Nations program of action to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects marks its 25th anniversary. Ghana reaffirms its unwavering commitment to its full and effective implementation. At the regional level, Ghana continues to work closely with ECOWAS and the ACRA initiative to counter illicit arms flow and violent extremism, contributing to the African Union's ambition of silencing the guns. Mr. Chair, Ghana fully supports the effective implementation of the Voluntary Global Framework for True Life Conventional Ammunition Management, ensuring coordination and complementarity across relevant processes to avoid duplication. We call for predictable technical and financial assistance, training and technology transfer responsive to developing countries' needs. Such support should strengthen national ownership and implementation capacity. As a state party to the Arms Trade Treaty, Ghana remains committed to its universalization and effective implementation. We support balanced, transparent, and objective implementation that promotes responsible transfers and prevents diversion while respecting states' legitimate security needs in accordance with the United Nations Charter and the obligations of the treaty. Ghana also reaffirms its commitment to the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention and supports international cooperation for humanitarian mine action. Mr. Chair, emerging challenges, including the misuse of drones and developments in weapons manufacturing, require greater international attention and cooperation. On lethal autonomous weapons systems, Ghana stresses the need for meaningful human control, clear responsibility and accountability in line with international law, including humanitarian and human rights law. We support continued work under the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons towards an appropriate international instrument. In conclusion, Ghana remains committed to practical, inclusive multilateral cooperation that reduces armed violence, protects civilians, and advances peace and


1st Committee · Chair [1:16:46]:

I thank the distinguished Permanent Representative of Ghana for his statement. The Committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Lesotho. You have the floor.


Lesotho [1:17:04]:

I wish to make the following remarks in its national capacity. The Kingdom of Lesotho remains deeply concerned by the devastating humanitarian consequences of the use of explosive weapons in populated areas. Across armed conflicts, bombing and shelling of cities, towns, and villages continue to cause widespread civilian deaths and injuries, destroying homes and essential civilian infrastructure, and disrupt access to healthcare, education, water, and electricity. In 2025, Lesotho formally endorsed the Political Declaration on Strengthening the Protection of Civilians from the humanitarian consequences arising from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas. Through this endorsement, we reaffirmed our commitment to strengthening the protection of civilians during armed conflict. We recognize the importance of translating the declaration's commitments into concrete policies and practices, including measures to restrict or refrain from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas when their use may be expected to cause harm to civilians. Lesotho is committed to advancing national implementation of the declaration, including through its translation into Sesotho, integration into national legal and policy frameworks, designation of a national focal point, and incorporation into the work of our National Committee on International Humanitarian Law. We also welcome ongoing efforts by the African Union to develop a common plan of action to strengthen the protection of civilians from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas. We encourage all States that have not yet endorsed the declaration to do so, and urge endorsing States to take practical steps towards its effective implementation. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [1:18:55]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Lesotho for her statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Bahamas. to have the floor.


Bahamas [1:19:11]:

Statements delivered on behalf of CARICOM and the non-aligned movement and wishes to offer the following remarks in our national capacity. For the Bahamas, illicit trafficking of conventional weapons, particularly small arms and light weapons, remains a serious security concern. Our extensive maritime borders exposes us to transnational trafficking networks with consequences felt directly within our communities. The trafficking of illicit firearms has been long championed by Mr. Philip Davis, Prime Minister of the Bahamas, where he has emphasized that guns are not manufactured in the Caribbean, and every gun used to commit a crime within our region is smuggled into our countries. This reality facing the Caribbean underscores the need for sustained international cooperation. More than two decades since the adoption of the United Nations Program of Action, illicit firearms trafficking continues to undermine regional security. Preventing firearms and other conventional weapons from entering illicit markets requires a stronger international framework, particularly for their regulation and traceability. My delegation reaffirms its support for the Arms Trade Treaty and calls for its effective implementation, including rigorous export assessments and measures to prevent diversion. Chair, we also recognize that emerging technologies, including 3D-printed firearms and illicit conversion devices, present additional challenges for the identification and tracing of weapons. The Bahamas therefore welcomes the ongoing work of the open-ended technical expert group and encourages continued technical cooperation in this area. The Bahamas further welcomes the successful adoption of the outcome document of the ninth biennial meeting of states and commends Ambassador Larsen of Australia for his leadership. Chair, the Bahamas remains committed to strengthening its national response, working closely with regional and international partners to combat illicit firearms trafficking. Given the transnational nature of this threat, an international cooperation must remain central to our collective response. In particular, targeted technical assistance and capacity building in maritime interception and weapons tracing are essential to strengthening national enforcement capabilities. In conclusion, the Bahamas calls for full implementation of existing commitments and sustained practical cooperation to curb the illicit flow of small arms and light weapons and reduce their impact on our communities. I thank you, Mr. Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [1:21:48]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the Bahamas for her statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of the Lao People's Democratic Republic. You have


Lao People's Democratic Republic [1:22:02]:

The Philippines aligns itself with the statements delivered by the Non-Aligned Movement and ASEAN. We remain concerned about the humanitarian and security consequences of the illicit manufacture, transfer, and circulation of small arms and light weapons. We fully support efforts to strengthen effective control and to combat illicit trade at the national, and regional, and international level. given its direct link to the international peace and security. Mr. Chair, as one of the countries most heavily affected by the cluster munition, the Lao PDR has experienced firsthand the devastating and long-lasting effects of these inhumane weapons. For decades, they have impeded our development and claimed the lives of innocent people, most of them children. Like other affected countries, we share the aspirations of the world free from the dangers of explosive remnants of wars. We believe that the universalization and effective implementation of the Convention on Cluster Munitions are essential to achieving this goal. In this connection, the La Plata honors to host and preside over the third review conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions in Vientiane in September 2026. And we welcome its successful outcome, including the Vientiane Capital Action Plans 2027 and 2031, which provide an important framework for advancing the Convention's implementation. Our strategy shape has four three 2021-2030 is aligned with the Convention and its action plans and integrates UXO actions into our broader development agendas, including through our national SDG 18 life shifts from UXO. We call upon the international communities to enhance cooperation, technical assistance, and sustainable supports for affected countries. In conclusion, the Lao PDR remain committed to working closely with all member states towards the world free from cluster munitions and to ensuring a safer environment for the future generations. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [1:24:39]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Lao PDR for his statement. The committee will now hear from the permanent observer of the Holy See. You have the floor.


Holy See · Permanent Observer [1:24:51]:

Under Chair, the proliferation and use of conventional weapons to fuel conflicts and perpetuate violence erode mutual trust, thereby compromising the pursuit of a just and lasting peace. Equally troubling is the relentless surge in global military expenditure, which reached almost 2.9 trillion US dollars in 2025. The vast resources devoted to armaments are in stark contrast to the urgent need for humanitarian aid and development, especially given that millions of persons still live in poverty and lack access to essential services. Mr. Chair, the Holy See remains deeply concerned about withdrawals from the Convention on Anti-Personnel Mines and the Convention on Cluster Munitions, which threaten decades of progress in humanitarian disarmament. It is imperative that the integrity of both conventions is preserved and that they are promoted on a universal scale. In this regard, it is crucial to reiterate the necessity to provide integral assistance to victims, their families, and affected communities, addressing their physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs. Mr. Chair, my delegation welcomes the progress achieved by the Group of Government Experts on Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems this year. In war settings, all systems must guarantee the possibility of retracing and reconstructing decision-making processes so that accountability and blame are not collapsed into the machine. Furthermore, the decision to use lethal force cannot be delegated to opaque or automated processes, but must remain under effective, self-aware, and responsible human control. In this regard, my delegation reiterates its call for a legally binding instrument that establishes clear prohibitions and regulations of these systems. Mr. Chair, the devastating humanitarian consequences of using explosive weapons in populated areas are a grave concern for the Holy See. The widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure And the long-lasting suffering inflicted on affected communities underscore the need to make the political declaration on explosive weapons in populated areas universal and to implement it effectively. The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons fuels violence and undermines development. Following the work carried out during the 9th Biennial Meeting of States held last June, there is a need for strengthening the implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its Aspects and the International Tracing Instrument. Mr. Chair, the resources devoted to armaments could instead serve the urgent needs of those living in poverty, expand access to education and health care, and promote integral human development. Redirecting these resources towards such priorities would contribute meaningfully to building a more just and lasting peace. Thank you, Mr. Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [1:27:51]:

I thank the distinguished permanent observer of the Holy See for his statement. Distinguished delegates, the Committee has just heard the last speaker on the cluster on conventional weapons. 91 delegations made statements this year, compared to 93 statements last year. Distinguished delegates, the Committee will now begin its thematic discussion under the cluster of other disarmament measures and international security. The first speaker on the list of speakers is the distinguished representative of Indonesia on behalf of the NAM group. You have the floor.


Indonesia · NAM [1:28:38]:

Thank you, Chair. I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. The full version of this statement is provided to the Secretariat. NAM notes the important benefits of information and communication technologies and their contribution to development. NAM encourages states to implement the voluntary and non-binding norms, rules and principles of responsible state behavior in the use of information and communication technologies while advancing discussions on implementation mechanisms. NAMM reaffirms that given the unique attributes of ICTs and the evolving nature of ICTs threats, additional norms, including legally binding obligations, could continue to be developed over time. Vietnam strongly rejects malicious use of ICTs, including the Internet, social networks, social media, and other uses not in accordance with international law, in particular the Charter of the United Nations, for purposes that are inconsistent with the objective of maintaining international stability and security and may adversely affect the integrity of critical infrastructure of states to the detriment of their security. Vietnam also welcomes the convening of the Global Mechanism on 20-24 July 2026 and strongly emphasizes the need to reach consensus within the Global Mechanism in considering the remaining outstanding issues as reflected in the Chair's Summary attached to the Final Substantive Report of the 2019-2021 OEWG. NAM further underscores the importance of achieving meaningful progress on matters related to capacity building as well as international law. NAM stresses that the development of any international legal framework to address issues related to the use of ICTs with implication on international peace and security should take into account the concern and interest of all states and should be based on consensus and pursued within the UN with the active and equal participations of all states. NAM stresses that nothing in any such legal framework shall affect the inalienable rights of States in the development and use of ICTs for peaceful purposes, or restrict or deny in any matter whatsoever developing countries' access to ICTs, related science, know-how, technology and services in all its aspects for peaceful purposes. NAM underscores the importance of capacity building of Member States and confidence building measures aimed at enhancing the stability and security of ICT environment. NAM asserts that needs-based capacity building efforts need to be accelerated as one of the key function of the global mechanism in order to bridge the digital divides and ensure that all states can safely and securely size the benefits of digital technologies. NAM highlights the importance of addressing the issue of military applications of artificial intelligence in all its aspects through a holistic, transparent, inclusive and non-discriminatory framework within the UN, including in its disarmament machinery, with the participation of all States on equal footing. I thank you, Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [1:31:55]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia speaking on behalf of NAM group. The committee will now hear from the distinguished permanent representative of Timor-Leste, speaking on behalf of ASEAN. You have the floor.


Timor-Leste · ASEAN · Permanent Representative [1:32:13]:

Chair, I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of ASEAN. ASEAN aligns itself with the statement delivered by Indonesia on behalf of NAM. ASEAN reaffirms its commitment to a rules-based multilateral system anchored in international law, including the UN Charter. While advances in information and communications technologies and artificial intelligence offer significant opportunities, they also raise complex implications for international security. ASEAN remains committed to an open, secure, stable, accessible, peaceful, and interoperable cyberspace. Our region faces growing threats, including ransomware, cyber-enabled scams, and attacks on critical infrastructure and submarine cables. ASEAN calls for strengthening international cooperation to build trust, reduce the risk of misperceptions and escalation, and promote responsible state behavior in cyberspace. ASEAN reaffirms the international law, particularly the UN Charter applies in cyberspace. We support the UN framework for advancing responsible state behavior in the use of ICTs and call on future UN discussions to advance concrete and practical outcomes and initiatives on the application of international law to cyberspace, voluntary non-binding norms, confidence-building measures, and capacity-building activities. Chair, ASEAN-led mechanisms remain inclusive platforms for regional cooperation. The ASEAN Regional Forum advances confidence-building, while the ASEAN Cyber Defense Network and ASEAN Regional CERT strengthen cyber defense cooperation and information exchange. We welcome the endorsement of the ASEAN Cybersecurity Cooperation Strategy 2026-2030, which advances the implementation of voluntary norms, cyber exercises, incident reporting, and communication with other states. The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Center in Bangkok and the ASEAN-Singapore Cybersecurity Center of Excellence in Singapore have trained almost 5,000 officials. ASEAN will continue to explore further joint initiatives to strengthen the regional and global cybersecurity architecture. Globally, ASEAN welcomes the conclusion of the OEWG on security of and in the use of ICTs and the commencement of the UN Global Mechanism. We stand ready to contribute constructively towards concrete and practical outcomes. Chair, ASEAN underscores the strategic importance of the responsible and inclusive application of AI in the military domain. ASEAN affirms that the use of AI in the defense sector should be consistent with international law, including international humanitarian law, and recognizes the need to implement appropriate safeguards, including measures that relate to human judgment and control over the use of force. ASEAN also recognized the importance of women's full, equal, and meaningful participation in disarmament, nonproliferation, and arms control, acknowledging the contributions of women and youth to peacebuilding. This is reflected in the ASEAN Regional Plan of Action on Women, Peace, and Security, as well as ASEAN's ongoing efforts to advance the youth, peace, and security agenda and peace education. Chair. ASEAN's cooperation remains active, outward-looking, inclusive and non-discriminatory. We stand ready to work with all member states.

I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [1:35:42]:

I thank the distinguished permanent representative of Timor-Leste, speaking on behalf of ASEAN, for his statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Libya, speaking on behalf of the Arab Group. You have the floor.


Libya · Arab Group [1:36:10]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, the Arab Group emphasizes that the implementation of agreed-upon solutions in multilateral frameworks and on the basis of international law and in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations, this implementation provides the only sustainable way to address disarmament and international security issues. The group calls on all member states to renew and implement their national and collective commitments in the international multilateral framework, and to take into account the risks and concerns raised by emerging technologies with regard to existing disarmament mechanisms. In the field of cybersecurity, the Arab Group expresses its concern over the increasing misuse of information and communication technologies. for the purpose of carrying out subversive activities that disrupt international peace and security. The Arab Group stresses the need for the United Nations to continue to work on the development of binding rules governing the responsible conduct of states in the field, in parallel with holding a substantive debate on the applicability of international law to this vital space. We also stress the need to continue international cooperation and to maintain a central role of the United Nations as the global umbrella for these efforts. In this context, the Arab Group welcomes the convening of the first substantive session of the International Cybersecurity Mechanism as the main and the only platform for discussing this important file under the umbrella of the United Nations. We express our support for the efforts of the chairperson of the mechanism, the Permanent Representative of El Salvador. We also support the co-facilitators of the two working groups of the mechanism. And we hope that it would start, we look forward to the start of the work of the two working groups next December in a manner that would reflect the five pillars that were previously agreed upon as the basis for discussing this file within the framework of the United Nations and based on consensus. The Group emphasizes the need to support international cooperation to enhance ICT security in a way that would bolster countries' abilities and their capacities against any sabotage or other risk associated with the misuse of ICT, especially through supporting, promoting capacity building and technical cooperation and technology transfer to development countries in light of the huge digital divide that deprives these countries from benefiting of its, from benefiting from this technology and makes them more susceptible to risks. In conclusion, the Arab Group notes the rapidly increasing role of emerging technologies, foremost among which is the applications of artificial intelligence in the military field. And therefore, we stress the need to deal seriously and effectively with them. We also welcome, in this context, the annual proposal of the draft resolution on AI applications in the military and its impact on peace and security, as well as the draft that is proposed in this session on enhancing and organize an informal consultations under the umbrella of the United Nations. We also welcome the efforts made by Austria to propose a draft resolution on lethal autonomous weapons and This year's draft includes a call to start negotiations on a legally binding instrument to govern any developments here. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [1:39:24]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Libya, speaking on behalf of the Arab Group, for his statement. The Committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of the EU, speaking on behalf of the European Union and its member states. You have the floor.


EU · EU [1:39:43]:

Thank you. Chair, I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its member states. The candidate countries, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, Republic of Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Georgia, and the EFTA countries, Iceland and Norway, as well as Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, align themselves with this statement. In today's security environment, developments in information and communication technologies including the growing role of artificial intelligence, are central to the UN's consideration of disarmament and international security. Malicious cyber activities increasingly affect international peace and security and contribute to rising tensions between states, and they create new risks of misunderstanding, miscalculation, and escalation. The EU remains firmly committed to promoting a global, open, stable and secure cyberspace. Strengthening security and stability in cyberspace is therefore not only a matter of resilience and governance, but also a matter of conflict prevention. The UN framework on responsible state behavior in cyberspace, established through cumulative UN processes, remains a central multilateral framework for addressing cyber threats. In this regard, the EU welcomed the first plenary in July of the UN Global Mechanism on developments in the field of ICTs. This platform provides a permanent single-track state-led platform for ICT security cooperation. As we begin the work on the global mechanism, our focus should shift from reaffirming principles to achieving practical outcomes. Chair, The threat landscape continues to deteriorate. The EU is especially concerned by malicious cyber activities targeting critical infrastructure sectors. In response, the EU will continue to use the full range of available instruments to prevent, discourage, deter and respond to malicious cyber activities. At the same time, we remain committed to working with partners to strengthen resilience, preparedness and build stronger cyber capacity world-wide. International law remains the foundation for peace, security and stability in cyberspace. The EU reaffirms that international law, in particular the UN Charter in its entirety, international human rights law and international humanitarian law fully applies in cyberspace, as set out in our 2024 declaration on a common understanding of the application of international law to cyberspace. The EU also firmly supports meaningful multi-stakeholder engagement. While states bear primary responsibility, the resilience, stability and integrity of cyberspace depend significantly on the contributions of the private sector, the technical community, academia and civil society. Chair, AI can strengthen cybersecurity, resilience and innovation, and can contribute positively to arms control, disarmament and nonproliferation. But it can also enable more scalable, targeted and adaptable malicious cyber activity. In the military domain, its rapid integration may create additional risks, including reduced human oversight and greater unpredictability. At the same time, we need to harvest the positive elements that can contribute to international peace and security. The EU therefore supports continued discussion within the UN on the opportunities and challenges arising from responsible military use of AI. Our shared task is clear to advance the implementation of the UN framework for responsible state behavior.


1st Committee · Chair [1:43:45]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the EU speaking on behalf of the European Union and its member state. The committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Estonia. You have the floor.


Estonia [1:44:02]:

Thank you, Chair. Estonia aligns itself with the statement just delivered by the European Union. In addition, we would like to highlight the following points in our national capacity. Estonia welcomes the July 2025 consensus on the open-ended working group's final report. We now have the UN global mechanism as the agreed forum for substantive discussions on ICT security. We also support the short procedural resolution proposed by the chair of the global mechanism. We hope it will be adopted by consensus. We should avoid duplication. Instead, These discussions belong within the global mechanism where we can work towards concrete results. The agreed UN framework for responsible state behavior in cyberspace guides this work. We now need to implement this framework, strengthen cooperation, and support capacity building. Chair, as cyber threats evolve, international law becomes even more important for peace and security in cyberspace. Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine shows how cyber operations can be used alongside conventional military force. By combining cyber attacks with missiles and drone strikes, disinformation campaigns and other hostile acts, Russia seeks to disrupt civilian life and damage essential infrastructure. This pattern of behavior erodes respect to the UN Charter and risks turning cyberspace into a domain of conflict rather than cooperation. Cyberspace is not a legal vacuum. All states must comply with international law, including the UN Charter, international human rights law, and international humanitarian law. Chair, emerging technologies are reshaping the security environment. AI, in particular, can enable malicious cyber activities on a much larger scale. It can make cyber attacks easier to launch, speed up their planning, and allow for more targeted and persistent operations. The Stowes supports continued UN engagement on the responsible use of AI. Addressing AI related cyber risks requires evidence based policies and international cooperation. It also requires transparency, a risk management based approach and meaningful human oversight. The global mechanism could also discuss these risks through its consensus based processes. Such discussions should follow the agreed procedures without prejudging outcomes or duplicating existing AI governance efforts. Estonia will continue working with all partners to defend these principles and ensure that technology advances peace rather than fuels conflict. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [1:46:51]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Estonia for his statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea. You have the floor.


Republic of Korea [1:47:02]:

Thank you, Chair. Over the past year, AI has continued to transform conflicts and battlefields. In ongoing conflicts, including in Ukraine and the Middle East, AI is being integrated into decision-making systems and drones, changing the conduct of hostilities. At the same time, when developed and used responsibly, AI can help protect lives. This underscores the need to ensure that AI is designed and used responsibly and in accordance with international law. Against this backdrop, the ROK, together with the Netherlands, has tabled a follow-up resolution on AI in the military domain this year. Discussions at the informal exchange in Geneva in June, as well as subsequent informal consultations in Geneva and New York, demonstrated broad interest among member states in continuing and advancing this discussion. We therefore propose moving from an informal exchange to a structured dialogue. Under our proposal, Member States and relevant stakeholders would meet for three days in Geneva in both 2027 and 2028 to discuss transparency and confidence-building measures and exchange views on possible next steps. We look forward to continued broad support from Member States for this resolution, building on the support shown in previous years. Chair, on ICT security, we welcome the launch of the global mechanism and the successful convening of its first substantive plenary session. We look forward to the first meetings of its dedicated thematic groups later this year. Their work will be important in making the global mechanism an action-oriented forum and advancing responsible state behavior in cyberspace. We fully support the leadership of its chair, Ambassador Egrizelda Lopez, and her team, and hope that El Salvador's draft resolution will be adopted by consensus, as in previous years. Lastly, the ROK believes that the active participation of youth in discussions on disarmament and international security is important. Last year, we have submitted the biannual resolution on youth, disarmament, and non-proliferation, and contributed to the launch of Youth for Disarmament Forum. This year, we also co-hosted a side event with UNIDIR on October 16. In the same spirit, we have co-sponsored and supported Mexico's biannual resolution on disarmament and non-proliferation education. We continue to support this resolution this year and hope that it will, as in previous years, be adopted by consensus. Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [1:49:47]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Republic of Korea for her statement. The committee will now hear from the distinguished representative of Italy. You have the floor.


Italy [1:50:04]:

Italy aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union and wishes to make the following remarks in its national capacity. The growing dependence of our societies on digital technologies has made cybersecurity an integral part of international peace and security. ICTs offer extraordinary opportunities for development and innovation, but their malicious use can disrupt critical infrastructure and essential services and increase instability well beyond national borders. Italy remains committed to an open, free, secure, stable, accessible and peaceful cyberspace. International law applies in its entirety, including UN Charter, international and Mediterranean law and human rights law, to state conduct in cyberspace. The UN framework of responsible state behavior provides our common basis for addressing the challenges ahead of us. Our collective priority must be translating agreed principles, norms, confidence-building measures and capacity-building commitments into action. Chair, this year has been crucial as the Global Mechanism on ICTs has begun its work as a permanent, inclusive and state-led platform.

The new mechanism, which belongs to every single member.

State, provides an opportunity to move from recurring discussion on institutional architecture towards sustained cooperation and implementation. Its effectiveness will be measured by our ability to strengthen adherence to the agreed framework, build confidence among states, improve our understanding of threats, and ensure that all countries can meaningfully participate in cyber diplomacy and strengthen their resilience.

With this regard, Italy reaffirms its full support to the resolution tabled by the chair of the GM. We are convinced that it is the only way to keep the global mechanism on its single.

Track established by consensus by the 2021-2025 OEWG. Malicious cyber activities are becoming increasingly sophisticated and disruptive, particularly whenever they target critical infrastructures. Ransomware, commercially available intrusion capabilities, and cyber operations conducted as part of broader hybrid.

Campaigns demonstrate the direct consequences that developments in cyberspace can have on everybody. Capacity building is therefore essential.

Italy supports projects that are demand-driven, sustainable, and responsive to national priorities, while promoting cooperation among governments, international organizations, the private sector, academia, and civil society.

Italy also translates these principles into concrete action, both at domestic and international level.

Chair, artificial intelligence adds a further dimension to this landscape. AI can strengthen cyber defense and resilience and offer valuable tools for arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation. At the same time, it increases the scale, speed and adaptability of malicious cyber operations and raises new challenges related to human oversight, predictability and decision-making. Our task is therefore not to resist technological innovation, but to ensure that it develops.

Within a framework of responsibility, transparency, cooperation and respect for international law.

Finally, Italy reaffirms strong commitment to export controls as essential tool against proliferation of weapon of mass destruction. Export control regime safeguard legitimate trading.


1st Committee · Chair [1:53:06]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Italy. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Latvia.


Latvia [1:53:21]:

Your Excellency Chair, as we are experiencing an increase in the scale, scope, and complexity of malicious activities in cyberspace, Both efforts by individual states and joint action in the multilateral realm are required. It's crucial to foster resilience and enhance cooperation while acting proactively against malicious activities and cyber threats. The UN has already made significant progress, particularly through the affirmation that international law applies fully to the cyberspace and the establishment of the global mechanism, ably chaired by El Salvador. Now our task is to take this work forward and to deliver on our commitment to maintain peace and security, protect human rights, foster development, and preserve free, stable, open, and secure cyberspace. Elaboration on how international law applies in cyberspace and how to consolidate the framework of responsible state behavior in the use of ICTs will be important task of the global mechanism. This will strengthen our ability to protect the cyberspace in face of hostile and irresponsible state actors that seek to use cyberspace for malicious activities. Latvia is fully committed to carry out this important work within the global mechanism. We are also committed to and expect the global mechanism to fully address existing and potential threats to ICTs and international security. and to elaborate on voluntary, non-binding norms guiding responsible use of ICTs by states. We will also work on developing confidence-building and capacity-building measures in line with the five pillars of the framework for responsible state behavior in the use of ICTs. Latvia fully supports the process of the global mechanism, building upon the consensus rather than attempts to disrupt this process by introducing non-consensual elements. Responsible behavior in the use of ICTs will become even more essential in light of the staggering development of artificial intelligence. While it provides clear opportunities, this technology also requires safeguards for cybersecurity. development of AI models cannot outpace our capacity to effectively react and secure our cyberspace. Our resilience must keep a pass and any malicious use of AI and cyber attacks must be held to account. Your Excellency, Chair, while we have already begun to address international law, responsible state behavior, and emerging threats in cyberspace, there is much more to be done, also by the UN. Latvia, as an elected member of the UN Security Council, will continue to raise awareness on the role of the technology in international peace and security. We are ready to actively engage with other countries to meet challenges of our time. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [1:56:21]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Latvia. Now I give the floor to the distinguished permanent representative of Germany to the Conference on Disarmament.


Germany · Permanent Representative [1:56:35]:

Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Germany aligns itself with the statement just delivered by the European Union. Many states comply with their obligations under the NPT, the BTWC, or the CWC to prevent the proliferation of WMD, as well as goods and technology which can be used to build or develop these WMD, by operating functioning export control systems. These systems also serve to fulfill their legally binding obligations under United Nations Security Council Resolution 1540 to prevent the proliferation of WMD to non-state actors. Germany is one of those states, as we are a very open economy with many highly specialized companies that produce goods and create technologies for export purposes. In order to transfer proliferation-sensitive dual-use goods and technologies, our authorities need to be confident that these will not be misused in ways that violate our non-proliferation obligations or undermine international and national security. For Germany, these export controls are regulated by the European Union, creating uniform conditions for economic actors throughout our common market. In 2024, EU member states authorized dual-use exports worth 77.6 billion euros. They denied 0.2 billion on security grounds, about a quarter percent of the overall value. Our export control system is not a system designed to deny. It is a system designed to authorize, but with confidence. This transparent system relies on publicized common control lists and criteria that mean the exporter knows the rules, the importer knows which assurances will be asked, and governments know where the goods end up. Predictability is trade facilitation. Because an effective national export control system is the entry ticket to economic exchange in sensitive dual-use goods and technologies, Germany, the European Union and other states support a large number of partner countries in setting up their export control systems, providing assistance on aspects like legislation, licensing, customs and enforcement, outreach to industry and academia and penalties. Germany does so through its national export control agency, BAFA, and in the context of UNSCR 1540, has initiated the Wiesbaden process on outreach to industry and the Erlangen process on outreach to academia. Through our own export controls, our initiatives, and our support in this field for other states, we create the confidence, trust, and mutual assurances necessary for fostering legitimate trade in dual-use goods and transfer of technology for peaceful purposes and economic development, whilst at the same time preventing the spread of nuclear, biological or chemical weapons.


1st Committee · Chair [1:59:36]:

I thank the distinguished Permanent Representative of Germany to the Conference on Disarmament. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Canada.


Canada [1:59:55]:

Thank you, Chair.

Emerging technologies are shaping the international security landscape in transformative and unpredictable ways. Meeting the risks and opportunities they present will require vigilance and the capacity to respond to emerging trends. Canada remains committed to working with all member states to strengthen the norms, frameworks, and partnerships necessary to ensure these technologies advance rather than detract from international peace and security. On cybersecurity, we welcome the first plenary session of the global mechanism and look forward to the dedicated thematic groups in December. These discussions will advance implementation of the UN framework for responsible state behavior in cyberspace. Canada supports El Salvador's leadership and looks forward to the global mechanism delivering practical outcomes that strengthen international security. The same applies to artificial intelligence. Canada supports the resolution, Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain and its Implications for International Peace and Security. Human oversight and accountability are necessary for the responsible military application of emerging technologies. Canada also welcomes recognition of the Group of Governmental Experts on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems. Monsieur le President.

Sir. As a supplier of sensitive materials and technologies, Canada recognizes the value of responsible cooperation for sustainable development. In this regard, we are concerned by efforts to portray export control regimes as barriers to cooperation. Effective export controls facilitate legitimate trade while helping to prevent the diversion of sensitive goods and technologies for harmful purposes. Canada rejects narratives that undermine the important role of multilateral export controls in supporting peaceful trade, nonproliferation, and international security. Mr. Chair, Finally, Canada welcomes the biennial resolution, Women, Disarmament, Non-Proliferation and Arms Control, introduced by Trinidad and Tobago. The full, equal and meaningful participation of women in disarmament processes is essential, as is recognizing the differentiated impacts of weapons on women and girls. Canada urges all states to support this resolution and reaffirm that women's perspectives and experiences must inform our efforts to build lasting peace. Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [2:02:43]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Canada. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Togo.


Togo [2:02:56]:

Technological progress and technology and AI offer important opportunities, but also creates new challenges for international peace and security. These challenges call for concerted actions by states whilst respecting international law and in a spirit of multilateral cooperation that Togo is firmly committed to. In the area of cybersecurity, my delegation welcomes ongoing work undertaken as part of the OEWG on the global mechanism on technologies and communication, therefore ensuring ongoing dialogue and cooperation between states. Togo pays particular attention to the work of the topical thematic groups that are looking into exchanges and help to make progress in order to bolster cyber security and safety. There needs to be a shared understanding of the threats to build trust and to guarantee the respect for the UN Charter and international law in cyberspace, ensuring that the needs and particularities of developing countries are fully taken into consideration. On the national level, Togo is continuing its efforts in the area of cybersecurity. through setting up its National Cybersecurity 2020 for 2028 strategy to bolster combating the cyber threat. We have undertaken a national AI strategy Meetings on that took place in December 2025. The initiative seeks, in particular, to promote digital skills, strengthen national capacities in the area of data, support information and promote the ethical use of AI for development. In conclusion, Togo underscores the need for multilateral cooperation that is bolstered to promote a responsible, inclusive use of new technologies, whilst respecting international law and for peace and international security. Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [2:05:33]:

I thank the Distinguished representative of Togo. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sri Lanka.


Sri Lanka [2:05:43]:

Information and communication technologies have now become an integral part of how Sri Lanka pursues its development. However, this growing reliance also brings cybersecurity challenges that can affect the continuity of essential services and the security of critical information systems. We welcome the conclusion of the OEWG on security of and in the use of ICTs and the adoption of its final report by consensus. We also welcome the first substantive plenary of the UN Global Mechanism held in July.

A single-track, State-led process, open to all Member States.

And working on the basis of consensus, provides an important platform for building trust in this field.

For developing countries, capacity building remains essential to strengthening their ability to address ICT-related threats. Capacity building efforts should respond to nationally identified needs and respect national ownership.

Mr. Chair, the 21st century is increasingly shaped by the rapid development of emerging technologies, particularly applications of AI in the military domain. Military AI capabilities require comprehensive governance and oversight from the outset of their development. Compliance with international law must be ensured at every stage of the AI life cycle to safeguard accountability and prevent any gaps in responsibility in decisions involving the use of force. In this regard, effective human control and full adherence to IHL should be maintained.

The applications of AI must also protect the ability of developing.

Countries to benefit from these technologies for peaceful purposes and be matched by meaningful international cooperation, including capacity building and technology transfer, so that the distance between developed and developing States does not grow wider.

Mr. Chair.

For Sri Lanka, environmental protection and disarmament are closely connected. We also share the concern at the steady rise in global military spending, when those resources could do far more to help improve lives around the world. Addressing these challenges requires renewed commitment to multilateralism, grounded in consensus and respect for international law. Sri Lanka remains ready to look for common ground and mutually beneficial solutions that builds trust and ease tensions among states.

I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [2:08:19]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Sri Lanka. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bangladesh.


Bangladesh [2:08:29]:

Mr. chair Bangladesh Alliance itself with the statement delivered by Indonesia on behalf of the name the nature of threats to International peace and security is changing rapidly today threats do not always come from conventional weapons cyber attacks and misuse of artificial intelligence can also cause serious disruption to our societies Mr. President we are particularly concerned about the growing frequency and sophistication of cyber attacks including ransomware such attacks can disrupt essential public services, financial institutions, and critical infrastructure. Cyber threats do not respect national borders. Bangladesh therefore supports a collective and cooperative framework based on international law and confidence-building measures. We also emphasize the need to bridge the digital divide so that developing countries can participate effectively in global cybersecurity efforts. In this context, Bangladesh welcomes the launch of the UN Global Mechanism on developments in the field of information and communications technologies in the context of international security. We look forward to the upcoming dedicated thematic groups in December and hope that these discussions will lead to practical outcomes. Mr. Chair, artificial intelligence is creating new opportunities. At the same time, it is also introducing serious security risks. AI-generated disinformation, manipulation of information, and malicious applications are becoming increasingly difficult to detect and counter. We are equally concerned about the growing use of AI in the military domain. The increasing autonomy of military systems and the instances of AI-assisted decision-making could heighten the risks of unintended escalation. Hence, Bangladesh believes that human oversight and accountability must remain central to the use of AI, particularly in military operations. Mr. Chair, science and technology should contribute to peace, development, and disarmament, rather than create new threats. We must promote their responsible use while ensuring that developing countries are not left behind. Bangladesh also believes that multilateralism remains indispensable to addressing contemporary security challenges. The United Nations must continue to provide an inclusive platform where all states, regardless of their technological capabilities, can participate on an equal footing. I thank you, Mr. Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [2:11:06]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Bangladesh. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Guatemala.


Guatemala [2:11:16]:

Mr. Chair, Guatemala reaffirms its commitment to strengthening international disarmament efforts and to promoting a safer, more stable, and resilient international environment in the face of challenges arising from emerging technologies. Information and communication technologies play an increasingly important role in the functioning of our societies. At the same time, the growing number of cyber incidents and malicious activities in the digital domain highlights the importance of strengthening international cooperation and promoting responsible state behavior in this area. Guatemala welcomes the establishment of the Global Mechanism on developments in the field of information and communications technologies in the context of international security as a permanent and inclusive platform for dialogue, the exchange of experiences and capacity building. We also recognize the leadership exercised by the Chair throughout this process and the efforts undertaken to ensure broad, transparent and results-oriented participation. Particular importance is attached to the work of the dedicated thematic groups, which will convene in December. These represent an opportunity to advance the implementation of progress achieved by Member States and further develop priority areas such as capacity building, confidence building measures and international cooperation. We hope that this work will contribute to a shared understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital environment. Mr. Chair, at the national level, Guatemala continues to strengthen its institutional framework in this field, including the progress made in the discussion of the framework cybersecurity law, an initiative aimed at establishing mechanisms for institutional coordination, prevention, and response to cyber incidents while enhancing national capacities. Finally, Guatemala recognizes that the rapid pace of technological developments, including artificial intelligence, further underscores the need for emerging technologies to be developed and used responsibly in accordance with international law, the Charter of the United Nations, and with a view to preserving a secure digital environment. Thank you very much.


1st Committee · Chair [2:13:45]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Guatemala. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.


China [2:13:56]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. International geopolitical conflicts and disruptive technological transformation represented by AI are reshaping global cybersecurity landscape. Faced with the danger of a divided and disordered digital and intelligent world, China supports global digital compact and released position paper on global cyber governance in the digital intelligent age. We advocate for respecting digital sovereignty of all countries. Every country should have the right to independently choose their paths and partners of digital intelligent technology development, including AI, in light of the respective national conditions. No country should be forced to take sides. We call for upholding multilateralism. New international rules regarding the impact of AI on cybersecurity should be formulated. State governance should not be placed by private sector governance. No country should unilaterally impose rules on others. China supports global mechanism on developments in the field of ICTs. We believe GMAC should implement and develop in a comprehensive and balanced approach and adhere to the principle of consensus. China stands ready to build a community with a shared future in cyberspace. In July this year, Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the opening ceremony of the 2026 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance, calling on all countries to join hands to build a just and equitable system for global AI governance. At the same time, the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization has come into being, with nearly 40 countries joining as founding members. China will actively conduct international cooperation and capacity building on AI, and welcome the active participation of all parties. On the issue of AI in military domain, China adheres to the principle of human-centered AI for good. We believe related weapon systems should be under our human control and oppose using new technological advantages such as AI to seek absolute military hegemony. Chairmen, Peaceful use of science and technology is the inalienable right of all states. The resolution titled Promoting International Cooperation on Peaceful Uses in the Context of International Security has been adopted three times. The resolution aims to advance nonproliferation and peaceful uses in a balanced way. urge relevant countries to cancel undue export control measures and safeguard all states' legal and legitimate right to peaceful use of science and technology. We expect all states can support this resolution. And the full version of the statement will be uploaded. Thank you, Mr. Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [2:16:52]:

I thank the distinguished representative of China. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt.


Egypt [2:17:02]:

Thank you, Chairperson. The rapid scientific and technological developments are having a growing impact on international security, including disarmament efforts. The scope of application of new and emerging technology is of particular importance and impact in a number of strategic domains, including, inter alia, the use of information and communication technologies and the military applications of AI. Strengthening international cooperation, including on capacity building, technology transfer, technical and financial assistance, is essential for bridging the digital divide and for allowing equal and equitable access to all countries, irrespective of the level of economic development. While we take note of a number of positive developments in addressing those emerging aspects in the disarmament discussions, it's clear More effort is needed to pave the way towards a more UN-led, inclusive, multilateral processes. On that note, Egypt welcomes the convening of the first substantive session of the global mechanism under the able chairship of Ambassador Egricel de Lopez of El Salvador. And we look forward to the convening of the substantive work of the dedicated thematic groups in December 2026. for them to provide a vibrant platform for an interconnected discussion from all aspects and as a place where new ideas should be welcomed and supported. Egypt supports a single track mechanism and accordingly considers the global mechanism as a melting pot where all ideas, initiatives, and concerns of member states to be shared, discussed, and if possible, adopted. the aim of benefiting the full membership of such deliberations. Finally, and as for the military applications of AI, we're cognizant of the complex challenges and potential opportunities of such applications, and we welcome the work undertaken by the Kingdom of Netherlands and the Republic of South Korea in submitting their resolution on the military applications of AI and its implications on international peace and security. We believe that the time has come to to address such important issue in a comprehensive and inclusive manner in the formal track under the auspices of the UN. I thank you, Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [2:19:31]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Egypt. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Vietnam.


Viet Nam [2:19:41]:

Vietnam align itself with the statements of ASEAN and the non-aligned movement. Rapid advances in science and technologies are transforming our political, economic, and social landscape, creating a new opportunities while posing growing challenges to cybersecurity, responsible AI development, and international

peace and security.

These developments underscore the need for effective, inclusive, and adaptable governance framework that benefits all country. Vietnam reaffirms that international law, particularly the UN Charter, applies to state conduct in ICT context. The principles of sovereign equality, non-intervention in internal affairs, refrain from the threat or use of force and peaceful settlement of dispute must be respected. Voluntary norms of responsible state behavior should be complemented rather than substitute existing international law. We welcome the convening of the first plenary of the global mechanism on ICT security and look forward to the meeting in its dedicated thematic groups in December. We support the central role of the mechanism in fostering dialogues and international cooperations toward open, secure, stable, resilient, and peaceful cyberspace, as well as to support states to effectively prepare, prevent, respond, and mitigate the impact of malicious ICT activity. It is crucial that all states share a common goal of strengthening national cyber and ICT capability. Narrowing the development gap in the field of ICT between countries and regions, Vietnam emphasized the capacity building in the field of ICTs in a flexible and inclusive manners. Mr. Chair, the development of emerging technology, particularly AI, must contribute to international peace, security, and sustainable development. The expanding application of AI in military domains warrants sustained attention and must be subject to effective guardrails to ensure compliance with international law, including the UN Charter. Vietnam underscored the importance of a multilateral approach to AI governance that promote information sharing, transparency, and the exchange of scientific and technical evidence. Capability building in both the opportunities and risks associated with these technologies. Such efforts should ensure the meaningful participation of all countries, particularly developing states. In that regard, we support continued dialogue with the UN on AI governance and hope that such dialogue will open avenues for concrete international cooperations on emerging technologies. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [2:22:32]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Vietnam. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kingdom of the Netherlands.


Netherlands (Kingdom of the) [2:22:45]:

Thank you, Chair.

The Kingdom of the Netherlands aligns itself with the statement delivered by the EU. Please allow me to make the following remarks in my national capacity. Chair, 2026 was the first year of the new UN Global Mechanism on the Security and Use of ICTs. And we can say it has been a busy year. Under the chairmanship of Ambassador Egricelda Lopez of El Salvador, the mechanism took important steps to further operationalize itself. Nearing the end of the year, the global mechanism is well on its way to become a practical platform for both states and the wider multi-stakeholder community to discuss how the normative framework for responsible state behavior in cyberspace applies to real cyber threats and dilemmas. Having said that, it's critical to underline that the UN global mechanism is still in its early days. and its undisrupted development is essential for its ability to deliver concrete and practice-oriented results. We believe that substantive discussions on the global mechanism are only to be held within the mechanism itself. In this light, let me underline my delegation's unwavering support for the Chair's draft resolution, and I call upon all delegations to do the same and not to embark on a parallel process. Chair, in 2024, the Netherlands and the Republic of Korea tabled their first resolution on artificial intelligence in the military domain. And since then, this topic has gathered significant momentum, underscoring the widespread and shared interest in taking the discussion forward. The informal exchanges in June in Geneva, with broad participation and engagement from member states and the multi-stakeholder community, reflected

this.

Building on these exchanges,

this year's resolution proposes the next step, structured dialogue centered on a focused agenda and concrete outcomes. We invite all delegations to support the draft resolution and help achieve these concrete goals through a step-by-step approach.

Thank you, Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [2:24:52]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Netherlands. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cote d'Ivoire.


Côte d’Ivoire [2:25:02]:

Thank you, sir. Mr. Chair, there's no doubt today that acceleration in scientific and technological progress is significantly changing our security environment. AI, digital technologies, increasing autonomization of military systems, quantique information, and other emerging technologies offer enormous possibilities for progress. but their use for military means can also amplify a risk of escalation, accelerating decision-making processes and creating new vulnerabilities. This is why my country considers that, given these transformations, our collective ability to manage risk regarding technological innovation is absolutely crucial for international security. Cote d'Ivoire is calling for a multilateral governance that's inclusive and balanced for emerging technologies based on international law, human responsibility, transparency, and accountability. My delegation welcomes here the attention paid by the UN to the involvement of AI in the military sphere. It's crucial for military applications of AI that they be subject to appropriate human control, particularly when we're talking about decisions that might lead to the use of force. My delegation, sir, also welcomes the entry into force of the Global Mechanism on ICT in the context of international security. The work of the OEWG and the holding last July of the first substantive session of this new mechanism is an important step forward. Cote d'Ivoire wants the mechanism to remain universal, inclusive, consensus-based, and action-oriented, for it to consolidate the responsible behavioral framework of states and to prevent malicious use of ICT and to strengthen the ability of countries, developing countries rather, which is a top priority for Africa. Digital security should not become a new factor of inequality between nations. Reducing the digital divide must be accompanied by true strengthening of capacity and a sharing of skills and knowledge and fair access to technologies. Technological progress must not mean that we lose sight of the human dimension. Cote d'Ivoire is committed to the full, equal and significant participation of women and young people in the peace and security process. My country to this end is implementing its second national action plan on women, peace and security and youth peace and security. Continuing on from its commitment that it defended in this committee in 2025. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [2:27:58]:

I thank the district representative of Kotibwa. Now I give the floor to the district representative of Malaysia.


Malaysia [2:28:09]:

Thank you, Mr Chair. Malaysia associates itself with the statements delivered by NAM and by ASEAN. The rapid advancements of ICTs has brought unprecedented opportunities, but also increasingly complex challenges to international peace and security. Malicious cyber activities, threats to critical information infrastructure, and the misuse of emerging technologies have far-reaching implications that transcend national borders. These shared challenges demand sustained multilateral cooperation grounded in international law and the agreed UN framework for responsible state behavior in the use of ICTs. The commencement of the global mechanisms work in 2026 marks an important milestone in our collective efforts. As we embark on this new phase, Malaysia underscores the importance of preserving and building upon the hard-won achievements of previous UN processes. Now, our priority is to deliver concrete progress in their implementation. Our priority now is to translate these achievements into concrete progress in implementing the agreed framework for responsible state behavior. In this regard, UNICEF believes that the global mechanism must remain firmly focused on advancing the implementation of the agreed framework for responsible state behavior. Particular attention should be given to strengthening the protection of critical information infrastructure, alongside ensuring that capacity building efforts remain practical, needs-driven, and responsive to national circumstances and priorities. At the regional level, Malaysia welcomes the ASEAN Cybersecurity Cooperation Strategy 2026-2030, developed under Malaysia's chairmanship of the ASEAN Network Security Action Council, alongside the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2030. We also welcome continued progress in operationalising the ASEAN Regional CERT, as well as the ASEAN Norms Implementation Checklist. These initiatives demonstrate how regional cooperation can complement and reinforce global efforts, while translating international commitments into practical actions. As the global mechanism embarks on its first cycle, MASI underscores the importance of consolidating its foundations and translating our collective commitments into concrete outcomes. A unified and inclusive process under UN auspices remains indispensable to safeguarding the hard-won gains of previous efforts and ensuring the meaningful participation of all states, particularly developing countries. Our collective strength lies in unity, not fragmentation, and our success must be measured by action, not merely ambition. Malaysia stands ready to work constructively with all Member States to ensure that the global mechanism delivers on its promise of an open, secure, stable, accessible, peaceful and interoperable ICT environment. The foundation has been laid. The responsibility now rests with us to turn our shared commitments into lasting progress. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [2:31:05]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Malaysia, distinguished delegates. 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 interventions and two and a half minutes for the second intervention. I will begin by first giving the floor to the delegations Who would like to intervene under the cluster of conventional weapons? I now call on the representative of Russian Federation.


Russian Federation [2:31:51]:

Thank you, Mr Chair. The Russian Federation rejects all accusations against it as unjustified and unmoored from reality. Our country fully complies with its obligations as part of international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and its protocols, and also the Convention on Conventional Weapons and the protocols to it. At the same time, we note numerous violations of norms and principles of IHL by the Kyiv regime. Ukrainian military units are continuing their mass indiscriminate mining of areas of the Russian Federation to inflict significant damage on civilian infrastructure and on civilians. To these ends, Kyiv deliberately is using inhumane types of weapons, such as mines, booby traps, improvised explosive devices, IEDs, that daily, on a daily basis, I repeat, blow up civilians. The Ukrainian Armed Forces widely use land mines that are pressure activated, lipistok, butterfly mines, and they are completely banned by the additional protocol as they cannot self-destruct or self-deactivate. We're particularly concerned by Ukraine's broad use of IEDs such as land mines. laid by various types of drones and made by 3D printers. Such devices, in violation of Additional Protocol II to the CCW, cannot self-deactivate or self-destruct, and thus civilians are dying in surrounding areas. During the mine clearance work in our territory, Russian engineering units have found a large number of IEDs with a design resembling that of landmines. In particular, we're talking about Kriyanik, Kuki, Militza, Soapdish and Mucha Fly versions of anti-personnel high-explosive PFM mines without a self-destruction or self-deactivation mechanism in violation of Additional Protocol II to the CCW. There are many demonstrable examples of a disdain for the Additional Protocol II to CCW, in particular 7, such as numerous cases of Ukraine mining public spaces with the use booby traps, nearly indistinguishable from everyday objects such as books, mobile telephones, bags, wallets, children's games, watches, icons, and even milk cartons. We also note the ongoing practice of the use by the Kyiv regime of booby traps and other devices that kill civilians and soldiers, we are not hearing any concerns about these violations by other states or from other states, rather. The numerous violations by Kyiv of its obligations under the anti-personnel mine ban convention, both before and after its inconsistent steps towards this convention, is something we already talked about yesterday. We're not going to repeat ourselves. Both the collusion with and supply of weapons to Ukraine from Western countries mean even deeper involvement in the hostilities and in the crimes committed by Kyiv, which fuels the escalation of the conflict and pushes its settlement even further off. Ukraine and its Western partners have, however, no shame in talking about Russian aggression and that Kyiv is not in an equal position with Russia in terms of the international treaty regime. It's not clear what exactly this unequal situation is and under which treaties they're talking about, given that in practice, these countries interpret their obligations under relevant international agreements loosely and disregard them when convenient. During this meeting of the First Committee, the Russian delegation provided all necessary explanations regarding the legitimacy, pure legitimacy of Russia's cooperation with Iran and the DPRK. It is full in line with our bilateral agreements and with international law, including the UN Charter. We would urge delegations to read our statements once again. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [2:36:22]:

I now call on the representative of DPRK.


Democratic People's Republic of Korea [2:36:31]:

Thank you, Chair, for the floor. My delegation is compelled to take the floor to exercise its right of reply in response to the reckless and provocative accusations of the ROK and Ukraine. New danger of war is prevailing along the southern border of the DPRK due to the reckless behavior of the ROK. The mine explosion case that the ROK keeps repeating like a pre-recorded answering machine is a sinister, obstructive move intended to brand our exercise of sovereignty, the fortification of the southern border, as a military invasion. And this is no more than a poor trick of the ROK to shift the blame of its own accident onto us. The ROK seeks to hold the DPRK accountable for this unilaterally fabricated and premeditated farce and tarnish the latter's international image. It is a grave provocation, never to be overlooked, an event and violation of our sovereignty that deserves sure punishment. My delegation categorically reject the despicable attempt of the ROK and clarifies that our state will exercise its just sovereign rights in a more resolute and bold manner to ensure the security of the southern border. As already clarified, the DPRK will never discuss with the enemy country the issue of exercising its military sovereignty within its territory, but defend its territorial sovereignty by thoroughly exercising its power, not by negotiations. I take this opportunity to reaffirm that it is the official stand of the DPRK government. And to respond to the allegation of Ukraine, the DPRK's relational cooperation with Russian Federation cannot be subject to interference of a third party in any case, as they are the exercise of legitimate rights under the bilateral treaty. The UN Charter stipulates as one of the main purposes of the UN to develop friendly relations among nations on the principle of equality and self-determination, and the Declaration of the Principles of International Law on Friendship and Cooperation among Nations under the UN Charter, adopted by Resolution 2625 of the UNGA, specifies that any country or group of state has no right to interfere in the internal and external affairs of other countries. What should be rejected in the present international relations are bad behaviors of certain countries openly conducted worldwide in contravention of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, which disallow the use of and threat by force against the political independence and territorial integrity of any country. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [2:39:28]:

I now give the floor to the representative of Israel.


Israel [2:39:37]:

I'm supposed to have four and a half minutes. Thank you. Chair, Israel is committed to security, peace, and the rule of law, even under the most complex conditions. For three years, Israel has been engaged in a war against terrorist groups that operate throughout the Middle East and undermine regional stability. This war was imposed on us following the abhorrent terrorist attack of October 7, 2023, which the NAM has never seen fit to mention. We regret the NAM's statement, which makes accusations that depart from professional discourse in order to advance political narratives and agendas entirely disconnected from reality. In all of its military actions, Israel has acted in a manner consistent with international law and with a clear objective of eliminating threats posed by its adversaries. It is therefore deeply regrettable that the NAM failed to mention the real stabilizer of the region, a state that is a member of the movement, the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Iranian regime has systematically supplied terrorist organizations beyond its borders, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, with weapons, ammunition, training, and the logistical means to employ them, in direct contravention of UN Security Council resolutions. Furthermore, Iran is not only proliferating weapons and violence, it has also spearheaded efforts to sow destruction across the region through its own weapons and ballistic activity. Iran has repeatedly and deliberately launched barges of ballistic missiles and UAVs against more than 15 countries in the region and beyond, including the use of cluster munitions. with the sole purpose of inflicting maximum death and destruction on civilian population and infrastructure. Chair, Iran has turned the world shipping lanes into a tool of coercion. When it threatens vessels in the Strait of Hormuz or attacks shipping in the Red Sea through its proxies, the target is the whole world. and especially the developing economies whose food security depends on open sea lanes. This must be universally condemned. It is telling that a movement that speaks for the developing world is silent about a member state that holds hostage the very roads on which that world depends. Equally important, we must not forget the lethal methods and brutality this regime employ against its own people, a population that openly and rightfully seeks for liberty and justice. In January, the regime murdered thousands of Iranians who demanded nothing more than a change in the country's priorities, that the nation's resources be devoted to improving people's life rather than to terrorizing the Iranian people and others around the world. Chair, colleagues, Iran's destructive conduct has a rippling effect that reaches ever further beyond its borders. At home, it brutally kills its own citizens. In the region, it deliberately targets population centers, both through its proxies and through its own military activity. Globally, Iran threatens the freedom of navigation on which the world trade depends. It is also accelerating in ballistic capabilities in order to reach and terrorize well beyond the region. Through its proxies and its support from aligned groups, Iran spreads terror from Europe to Asia, Africa, and Latin America. This is not only Israel's problem. This is a problem for all of us. I thank you, Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [2:43:39]:

I now give the floor to the representative of United States.


United States of America [2:43:45]:

Thank you, Chair.

The United States takes the floor briefly to reply to the remarks by the delegation of Iran. The United States transfers conventional arms lawfully and transparently. Each transfer goes through a rigorous national export control review and is subject to congressional oversight. These transfers support the inherent right of individual and collective self-defense, recognized in Article 51 of the UN Charter. We also note that restrictions on conventional arms transfers to and from Iran are again in effect. Yet Iran keeps supplying weapons to armed groups across the region, which is inconsistent with those obligations and with the goals of this committee. We reject the basis for the inaccurate portrayal of U.S. conventional arms transfers and call on Iran to comply fully with its own obligations. Thank you, Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [2:44:49]:

I now give the floor to the representative of Poland.


Poland [2:44:54]:

Thank you, Chair. Chair, I exercise my right of reply to comment on the Russian remarks, and I would like to start with the obvious. Russia is not in a position to instruct other states to fulfill international obligations and respect international law. Russia has never been a party to the APNBC, nor has it ever limited itself by its provisions. In fact, quite the opposite is true. Russia employs landmines extensively, particularly in Ukraine. And yet that same Russia has the audacity to lecture others, including Ukraine, on the matters of rightful and humanitarian behavior. That kind of hypocrisy can be delivered only by the most sophisticated propagandists from the Kremlin. Chair, yesterday, Russian delegate was kind enough to offer his advice concerning regional security in Europe. According to the Russian delegation, military buildup of the West does not help ease the tensions on the eastern border. Well, as a representative of the region, I beg to differ. I would rather say that invading neighbors, waging illegal war, kidnapping children and targeting civilian infrastructure do not help ease the tensions. I would even say that these activities of Russia, realised in full swing in Ukraine, are provocative, reckless and nothing but escalatory. Chair, I said it here last year and I will repeat it today. Let's not confuse the cause with the effect. If Russia had not invaded Ukraine, we would all be living in a more secure world now, because Kyiv would not be forced to defend itself against Russia's insatiable appetite for the territories of its neighbors. Moscow wants us to be afraid, and out of fear, to abandon our values, withdraw our support for Ukraine, and seek a deal with aggressor. It is not going to happen. We stand with our brave friends from Ukraine, and we are proud of it. Chair, for those who may not know how to read, or rather debunk, Russia's remarks, I would like to offer my humble services. You see, Chair, Poland, along with several other states in this room, may provide some experience-based help. And the Russian statements we have heard can be really confusing. So, without further ado, when the Russians say, "We are coming to the rescue," or even better, "Peoples of these regions chose to be part of Russia," just as they refer to the regions of Ukraine they are occupying, They most likely inform you that they are going to invade you. Last time it happened to us in the 1940s, and trust me, they stayed for decades, clearly unwilling to leave. And Ukraine is experiencing this generous rescue offer right now, as we speak. Secondly, when the Russians say, "We are provoked by the West, we have to defend ourselves," they simply mean, "We will continue our policy of provoking you under the threat of world war, and we will act as if we were a victim." Examples? Unprovoked airspace violations and acts of sabotage. Happened inter alia in Germany, Romania, Moldova, Latvia, Lithuania and my own country, Poland. So, Mr. Chair, no wonder dear Russian delegates use the term "special operation" to state they are waging illegal war in Ukraine. They are simply not used to telling the truth. They do not know other reality. I hope this short explanation was useful and illustrative, and now everyone in this room knows what our Russian colleagues mean when they take the floor. Thank you, Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [2:48:35]:

I now call on the representative of Ukraine.


Ukraine [2:48:42]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Our delegation is compelled to take the floor in response to the statement made by the delegation of the Russian Federation. Let us be clear. Russia is an aggressive state and Ukraine is defending itself in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter. Ukraine remains firmly committed to international humanitarian law and to fulfilling its international obligations in the field of conventional arms control. Ukraine continues to uphold the fundamental principles of IHL, including the protection of civilians and civilian objects. On the contrary, the Russian Federation continues to employ virtually every category of conventional weapon in its war of aggression against Ukraine, including ballistic and cruise missiles, attack drones, including jet-powered drones, heavy artillery, cluster munitions, incendiary weapons. anti-personnel mines, as well as booby traps and other explosive devices. Russia systematically uses these weapons to deliberately target and kill Ukrainian civilians, destroy residential areas, hospitals, schools, energy facilities, and other critical civilian infrastructure, seeking to inflict maximum death, suffering, and destruction upon the Ukrainian people. Russia's actions constitute flagrant violations of fundamental principles of international humanitarian law, including those enshrined in the Fourth Geneva Convention relative to the protection of civilian persons in times of war and Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949. Furthermore, under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, intentionally directing attacks against civilians and civilian objects constitutes a war crime. I reiterate that war crimes and crimes against humanity are not subject to any statute of limitations. Ukraine's competent authorities are documenting these Russian atrocities and opening criminal proceedings to bring those responsible to justice. We call on all our partners and international organizations to respond decisively and firmly to these Russian crimes in a manner commensurate with their unprecedented scale and brutality. Ukraine will remain committed to international humanitarian law and to the protection of civilians. We will continue exercising our inherent right to self-defense, using the means necessary to protect our sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity in accordance with international law. Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [2:51:00]:

I now give the floor to the representative of the Republic of Korea.


Republic of Korea [2:51:07]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. My delegation did not intend to take the floor again, but we are compelled to do so in response to the statement made by the representative of the DPRK. The Republic of Korea firmly points out that the DPRK's allegation that the Republic of Korea is engaging in provocations in the DMZ and heightening the tension on the Korean Peninsula is entirely groundless and distorts the fact. The government of the Republic of Korea has consistently pursued peaceful coexistence on the Korean Peninsula. In that spirit, last year, we took the initiative to suspend its loudspeaker broadcast toward the DPRK, and we even dismantled them in the frontline areas. Despite these sustained efforts, the DPRK has continued its so-called border fortification activities activities and including laying mines south of the MDL thereby heightening tensions in inter-korean border areas laying mines south of the MDL by the DPRK constitute a clear violation of the 1953 Korean Armistice Agreement as confirmed by the United Nations command on September 30 This morning, the ROK submitted a letter to the President of the United Security Council detailing these relevant facts. Once again, the Republic of Korea urges the DPRK to immediately cease all acts that escalate tensions, to apologize, and take responsible measures. We hope that DPRK will take this opportunity to engage in dialogue to ease the tensions and restore trust. Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [2:53:07]:

I now give the floor to the representative of Islamic Republic of Iran.


Iran (Islamic Republic of) [2:53:16]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. In response to the statement delivered by the representative of the Israeli terrorist regime, as well as the right of reply, we have just heard from the representatives of the Israeli regime and the United States. I see no need to dignify those unfounded and absurd remarks with a detailed reply. Nevertheless, I must put some facts on record regarding the persistent practice of this regime of portraying resistance groups in our region as terrorists. By arbitrarily branding anyone who resists its aggression as a terrorist, the Israeli regime seeks to delegitimize resistance and obscure the root causes of the conflict. Such politically motivated labels may serve its propaganda and that of its complicit backers, particularly the United States, but they will not deceive the international community. The fundamental question is this, what explain the root causes of resistance in our region? The Israeli regime and its supporters have a simple story to tell. These are terrorist groups. But if we are serious about understanding the situation, we must look beyond these labels and examine how the Israeli regime was created and the historical circumstances that gave rise to resistance. Let us look at the historical reality. The Zionist movement sought to settle on a land already inhabited by Palestinians. These involved taking the land and homes of the indigenous population and transferring them to Zionist settlers. The Palestinians were not going to simply surrender their homes, their land, and their rights without resistance. It should come as no surprise that they resisted. How could it be otherwise? This was not an empty land waiting to be settled. It was a land inhabited by a people with their own homes, communities, and history. The Zionist leadership understood that the Palestinians would resist the loss of their land. That resistance was a forcible consequence of this position. It is important to understand that even leading Zionists recognize this reality. Let me recall two statements from David Ben-Gurion, the leading Zionist who became the first prime minister of Israeli regime. The first is, and I quote, "Why should the Arabs make peace? If I were an Arab leader, I would never make terms with Israel." End of quote. And the second, and I quote, They only see one thing. We have come here and stolen their country. Why should they accept that? End of quote. Mr. Chair, distinguished colleagues, that is the historical context that the Israeli regime and its Western supporters, particularly the United States, seeks to conceal. The root causes of Palestinian resistance. cannot be understood without acknowledging occupation and the denial of the Palestinian people's inalienable right to self-determination. Finally, how is it that a regime that has stolen and occupied Palestinian and other Arab lands is permitted to possess an extensive arsenal of conventional and unconventional weapons and to be armed to the teeth by the United States and its Western allies? enabling it to commit aggression against Palestine, Iran, and other countries in the region, to drop 2,000-pound American bombs on innocent civilians, massacre them, destroy their homes and infrastructure, and even strike peaceful nuclear facilities, while denying the victims of its aggression the right to defend themselves. The victims of aggression, including Iran, will never simply surrender. We will resist and ensure that the aggressors are held accountable. No one should be surprised by this. I thank you, Mr. Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [2:57:40]:

I now give the floor to the representative of Russian Federation for its second intervention under this clause.


Russian Federation [2:57:50]:

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. We had to take the floor again because, once again, we are hearing unrealistic presentations of the Russian Federation that we categorically reject. The root causes of the Ukrainian crisis is something we've repeatedly explained to the international community, in particular to the delegations of the First Committee, so that Poland and Ukraine don't have to talk about this anymore. I really want everybody else to understand the truth. as regards the violation of IHL that we are being accused of, we fully comply with all requirements of IHL. The armed forces of the Russian Federation, right from the start of the conflict, is working in line with the Geneva Conventions of 49 and its protocols and on mines being strictly ruled by IHL. We work in line with all international treaties. The aims of The Russian forces are, and the targets rather, are purely military infrastructure and military targets, not civilians, whatever Ukraine and Western European countries are trying to say to the contrary. Unfortunately, we can't talk about the same for the Kyiv regime. Their aim is to cause as much damage as possible on civilians and to destroy civilian infrastructure within the Russian Federation. We have already provided horrific statistics about the victims of Ukrainian strikes. And we reiterate that the real reason for the difficulties is because of the work of the Ukrainian units and placing heavy equipment in residential neighborhoods, using people as human shields and using them for military targets. The West keeping silent about this situation just talks about egregious double standards and their collusion in these egregious rights violations. Once again, I reiterate, in any circumstances, the aims of the special military operation will be achieved, whatever the circumstances. Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [3:00:15]:

I now give the floor to the representative of the DPRK for his second intervention under the cluster of conventional weapons.


Democratic People's Republic of Korea [3:00:23]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. My delegation is compelled to exercise its second right of reply in response to the sophistry made by the ROK. It is deeply regrettable that the ROK delegation continues to take confrontational attitude which hinders the progress of the discussion of this Committee. My delegation once again reject the despicable allegations of the ROK and urges ROK to stop the sordid attempt aimed at tarnishing the international image of the DPRK. My delegation wants the ROK against its reckless act of aggravating the situation by consistently threatening the border security of the DPRK and the safety of our service personnel and its provocative military exercise of aggression. Within the territory where our sovereignty is exercised, the project of fortifying the southern border will be surely and successfully continued according to our timetable. Thank you, Mr. Chair.


1st Committee · Chair [3:01:26]:

I now give the floor to the representative of Ukraine for his second intervention.


Ukraine [3:01:33]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. We are compelled to take the floor again to exercise our right of reply in response to yet another attempt by the Russian delegation to justify its war of aggression against Ukraine, including under the label of so-called special military operation. Russia continues to wage a war of aggression against Ukraine in flagrant violation of Article 2, paragraph 4 of the UN Charter. Russia's attempts to justify its full-scale invasion of Ukraine under fabricated pretext have no basis in international law. None of these arguments provides a lawful justification for the use of force against a sovereign state. The International Court of Justice, in its order of 16 March 2022, directed Russia to immediately suspend the military operations it commenced on 24 February 2022 in the territory of Ukraine. The UN General Assembly, in a number of its resolutions, condemned in the strongest terms Russia's aggression against Ukraine and demanded that Russia immediately, completely, and unconditionally withdraw all its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. Mr. Chair, Russia's aggression is accompanied by grave violations of international humanitarian law, including repeated attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure. Russia cannot invoke international law selectively while systematically violating its most fundamental principles. Ukraine, on the other hand, is exercising its inherent right of self-defense as enshrined in Article 51 of the UN Charter. Ukraine remains committed to complying with international humanitarian law and its applicable international obligations in the field of arms control. Now, we reiterate that the Russian Federation must cease its aggression, withdraw its forces from the entire, internationally recognized territory of Ukraine and comply fully with its obligations under the UN Charter and international law. Russia must be judged not by its words, but by its deeds. And those deeds speak for themselves: aggression, occupation, widespread destruction, and countless atrocities committed against the Ukrainian people. As the saying goes, by their fruits you shall know them. Thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [3:03:39]:

Now we will move to the right of reply at the end of the day today, and I give the floor to the representative of Russian Federation.


Russian Federation [3:03:55]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. We had to respond to the astonishing anti-Russian statement by the delegation of Estonia. We decisively reject the completely unjustified accusations against us. One has the impression that some states see the aim of their participation in the work of the First Committee as disseminating disinformation against the Russian Federation. That's their role. We drew attention to the need to provide evidence when pinning responsibility for various different operation on states. In line with the General Assembly Resolution 7327, accusations of carrying out unlawful acts against states must be justified. A state must study if there is a ICT incident, all relevant information, in particular the broader context for the event, the problem of establishing responsibility for the ICT sphere, and also the very nature and scope of the responsibility. I'd like to remind you that in order to conduct an investigation into ALIA to find out about the true sources of such activities, there are specialized channels between various different departments and agencies. I'm talking about the global focal points, for example, for exchanging information about computer incidents. The participants involve 125 different countries. I'd underscore that there were no official complaints to us regarding this. We believe this as a evidence of a lack of evidence, in fact, against Russia. It's clear that those accusers are not interested in a professional investigation, but just creating a real media buzz around this. Because once again, we've heard accusations against my delegation of violating international humanitarian law, and I would like to reiterate what I was saying and refer to what I said in terms of my right of reply regarding the previous cluster. I thank you.


1st Committee · Chair [3:06:23]:

Distinguished delegates, we have exhausted the time available for this meeting. Please be reminded that The meeting of the First Committee tomorrow, Friday 23 October, both morning and afternoon, will take place in Conference Room 1. Please note that, Conference Room 1, following an exchange of venues between the First and Third Committees for accessibility purposes. Therefore, the Committee will reconvene tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m. in Conference Room 1 to continue our discussion under the cluster of other disarmament measures and to hear a briefing by the Chairpersons of the Global Mechanism on developments in the field of information and communication technologies and advance responsible state behavior in the use of information and communication technologies. The plenary meeting on the report of the IAEA will also take place tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. in the GA hall. The meeting is adjourned.