Fourth Committee, 13th plenary meeting - General Assembly, 81st session General Assembly Date: 28 October 2026 Language: English Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/en/ga/c4/81/13 Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations. --- 4th Committee · Chair [0:00]: Good morning, colleagues. The thirteenth meeting of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee is called to order. This morning, the Committee will continue its general debate on agenda item 46 A, entitled International cooperation and the peaceful use of outer space. At around 12:00 PM, the meeting will be adjourned and the Committee's working group of the Hall will meet in a closed setting. The list of speakers for the general debate on this item closed at 6:00 PM yesterday. Before I give the floor to the first speaker for today, I would like to remind delegations of the time limit of 10 minutes for national statements and 50 minutes when speaking on behalf of a group. To assist speakers in managing their time, the red light of the speaker's microphone will begin to blink one minute to the end of the allotted time. After that minute, the microphone will be automatically cut off. For maximizing the utilization of our time, I appeal to all speakers to deliver short versions of their statement and to submit the full version for the posting in the UN journal. To support the interpreters, please e-mail in advance also the short versions of the indication for interpretation only. Now I give the floor to the representative of Costa Rica. You have the floor. Costa Rica [1:41]: Chair. From the navigation systems that guide vessels and aircraft through to satellites that track storms, guiding crops and connecting remote communities, space capabilities today sustain the daily life of all nations. This includes those who, like Costa Rica, who do not have their own satellites. And precisely for this, the governance of outer space could not be a matter only for those nations with capacity for space. Space should be an area that is shared and governed in a cooperative way for the benefit of present and future generations. Allow me to highlight four particular points. Firstly, Costa Rica underscores the central role of the Commission The Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, COPUOS, and multilateral governance of space. The agenda of the Committee continues to grow from sustainability, the long-term sustainability of space activities, through to the work underway to make the directives operational as to the stages of the situation in space. As orbits become more congested, The actors are becoming more diversified, and we need to have a common forum where states can decide on common rules. This becomes more necessary than ever. Costa Rica advocates for strengthening COPUOS as the main forum for developing the norms and principles that maintain outer space as a peaceful, sustainable area for use. We also want to highlight the importance of equitable access to the benefits of space. This year, the committee reached 110 member states and there are new requests pending. Behind each of these lies the same aspiration, which is to participate in the shared human presence in outer space and to benefit from it. However, for many developing countries, There continue to be major gaps in terms of access to data, training, and technology. Costa Rica is very familiar with this aspiration. At the beginning of this year, we had the honor to welcome in San Jose associated institutions on automated learning applied to space meteorology and satellite navigation systems. This is a very modest contribution, but a concrete one in terms of closing the gap from our own region. Costa Rica calls for maintaining the support for capacity creation and for the open and transparent exchange of data to ensure that the benefits of space reach all states, not just those who already have consolidated capacity in this area. Thirdly, Costa Rica wishes to underscore the importance of preserving the capacity of the United States Office for Outer Space Affairs. The director of the office has presented to member states the grave challenges in terms of capacity and resources that we are facing at the moment. COPWAS provides technical support and the registry services that many states depend on, especially developing countries. The reforms aimed at efficiency as part of the UNAD initiative, if they are not carried out very carefully, they run the risk of actually weakening the office that has made equitable participation in space possible. Costa Rica advocates for reform that strengthens rather than reduces the resources of UNOOS, so that it can serve all States equally. Fourthly, Costa Rica reaffirms its support for the convening of UNISPACE IV. Costa Rica was pleased to support the proposal setting out the objects, the format, the seat and the dates. The support has been broad, but there continues to be a financial deficit. In 2027, we will be commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Treaty on Outer Space. This is an opportunity to renew our collective commitment to cooperative governance of space. and we should not lose track of this because of a lack of resources. Costa Rica would urge Member States to contribute to closing this financing gap through extra-budgetary contributions. Chair, outer space does not belong to any particular State, and it must belong to all. Costa Rica reaffirms its commitment to space governance that's based on cooperation, equity, and shared responsibility. I thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [7:24]: I thank the representative of Costa Rica for his statement, and now I give the floor to the representative of El Salvador. You have the floor. El Salvador [7:37]: Chair, El Salvador is grateful for the presentation of the report of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, and we recognize the work of their Chair and their subsidiary bodies and the Office of the United Nations for Outer Space Affairs. Chair, international space cooperation is going through profound transformation. The expansion of space activity and the development of new technologies and the growing participation of public and private actors is defining this area. This is generating new opportunities, but also greater demand in terms of governance. These changes raise a fundamental question: how can we ensure that the evolution of space activities is accompanied by multilateral cooperation that is just as dynamic, inclusive, and able to address the emerging challenges in this context? CopuOS has an irreplaceable role as a universal platform for dialogue and cooperation. Strengthening it is rooted not only in its technical capacity, but also in its ability to build understandings between countries with different levels of development and interest. Technological progress on its own does not guarantee that the benefits will be distributed equitably. While space capacity continues to expand, many countries are facing serious limitations in order to access technologies, specialized knowledge, and infrastructure that will allow them to participate fully in this sector. This is why international cooperation should evolve at the same pace as technological evolution through mechanisms for technical assistance, exchange of knowledge, and national capacity building. This means moving towards cooperation that is not just limited to facilitating spatial services, but rather contributing to institutional capacity building and your own technical capacity, allowing developing countries to participate more actively and sustainably in space activities. As part of this effort, we recognize the important contribution of the United Nations Office for outer space affairs, and we highlight the importance of ensuring their cooperation programmes address the priorities and needs of Member States. Similarly, ensuring that we take advantage of opportunities should also involve women, because women also have a fundamental role to play in technological and scientific development. Promoting women's participation in Education, training, specialized training, and decision-making represent a condition for building a more diverse, representative space sector that is better prepared for the challenges ahead. Chair, the speedy transformation of this area also requires us to strengthen our collective ability to achieve agreements. being able to develop a common framework of principles and norms that guide the peaceful use of outer space. Preserving this progress and ensuring its continuity requires dialogue, flexibility, and respect for the previously achieved agreements. In this regard, consensus represents one of the key assets of our outer space cooperation. It is not just about a modality for adopting decisions, but rather it is an expression of the will of states to progress together while recognizing their different perspectives and priorities. El Salvador believes it is fundamental to preserve this capacity for understanding, especially in a context of growing challenges for multilateralism. Our shared responsibility is to ensure that differences do not weaken the mechanisms of cooperation that we have already built, but rather they should drive more effective dialogue that is more results-oriented. The future of space governance will depend both on our ability to respond to technological progress, but also on our willingness and ability to strengthen the multilateral fora that make cooperation possible. El Salvador reiterates its commitment to the peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable use of outer space based on international law, international cooperation, and the common benefit of all humankind. I thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [12:15]: I thank the representative of El Salvador for her statement, and now I give the floor to the representative of Chile. You have the floor. Chile [12:27]: Thank you very much, Chair. Chile, as a State Party to the five treaties of the United Nations on outer space, reaffirms its commitment to the exploration and use of outer space for exclusively peaceful ends in accordance with international law. The geographical characteristics of our country, especially the exceptional conditions of the Atacama Desert, offer opportunities for scientific research and technological experiments. in analogous environments, contributing to the development of new capacities and knowledge that is of interest internationally. In this context, our National Space Center that was inaugurated in December 2025 plays a strategic role for developing capacity in satellite integration, mission control, and geospatial information processing. This initiative seeks not just to strengthen our technological autonomy, but also to generate opportunities for scientific and technical cooperation with other countries in the region. Given the growing dependence on satellite technologies, which are essential for climate monitoring, for the management of water resources, and for the prevention and response to disasters, it is crucial that we promote inclusive space governance that has the needs and capacities of all states, especially developing countries, in mind. The growth of space activities also raises important challenges for security, stability, and sustainability of the space environment. Chile reaffirms the importance of preventing an arms race in outer space and of continuing to advance through constructive dialogue and through confidence-building measures and international instruments that will contribute to preserving its peaceful use in accordance with international law. Chile highlights its readiness to continue working with UN also and considers it indispensable to ensure sustainability of space activities in the longer term. For Chile, the protection of the space environment also includes the preservation of natural conditions that have made astronomical observation possible from Earth. My country hosts one of the astronomical observatories that is most advanced in the world. favored by the exceptional conditions of our skies, mountains, and deserts. We promote that sky protection should be part of our space activities. This is why we believe that the deployment of satellites should take into account its impact and ensure necessary conditions for science. Chile’s experience shows that strengthening national capacity, together with the participation of civil society, can contribute to the development of solutions that are beneficial to us collectively, especially when these efforts are complemented by training initiatives, knowledge exchange initiatives, and international cooperation. I thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [15:43]: I thank the representative of Chile for her statement, and now I give the floor to the representative of Peru. You have the floor, sir. Peru [15:53]: Chair, Peru reaffirms its firm commitment to the use of outer space for exclusively peaceful ends and for the benefit of all States. As a party to the five United Nations treaties on outer space, we believe that international law, multilateralism, and international cooperation continue to be fundamental pillars in order to guarantee that the benefits of space reach all of humanity. For Peru, one of the most valuable expressions of space cooperation has been its contribution to disaster management into the development of our societies. Our country is facing a high exposure to earthquakes, floods, droughts, landslides, and other natural phenomena. In addition, there are the recurrent effects of the El Nino phenomenon. Its impact affect agriculture, fishing, and the means of subsistence and livelihoods of millions of people. Aware of these challenges, Peru has situated strengthening international cooperation for the prevention and disaster risk management as one of its highest priorities, as expressed by President Keicho Fujimori at the recent high-level week during the general debate, and also during bilateral meetings, including with the Secretary-General of the United Nations. It was highlighted the need for anticipatory responses ahead of the 26-27 El Niño phenomenon. In this context, space technologies represent essential tools, not just for addressing emergencies, but also and above all to prevent risks and to prepare us for disasters that may occur. Earth observation, ocean monitoring, atmospheric monitoring, and early warning systems that are based on satellite data allow us to anticipate threats and to identify vulnerabilities and to adopt preventive measures that significantly reduce human and economic losses as a result. In this regard, we'd like to highlight that this year, our country, through the Agency, Cornida. We have joined this in order to make satellite information available to others, as this can serve as vital information when disasters occur. It's also essential to guarantee not only access to satellite data, but also to ensure the development of national capacity so that we can transform this data into effective tools for risk and disaster management. Peru believes that international cooperation should pay special attention to the needs of developing countries. who are facing greater levels of vulnerability to natural disasters and to the effects of climate change. This is why we recognize the important work of the United Nations Office for Space Affairs, UNOOSA, especially through initiatives such as UN-SPIDER and Space Resilience, aimed at broadening access to space technologies and to strengthening resilience of states to natural disasters. We also highlight the importance of continuing to strengthen institutional capacity of UNUSAP so that it can respond effectively to the growing demands from member states. Similarly, reducing the technology gap, capacity building, and contributing to And the contribution of space applications to sustainable development should be at the core of discussions on space governance. In line with this action, we highlight that in May of this year, Peru was the first Latin American country to be the host of the workshop of the Artemis Agreements on the principles for space governance. And at the beginning of October, CONIDA co-chaired with NASA the meeting of the Artemis Agreements as part of the International Astronautical Congress. Chair for Peru, space cooperation is not just an end in and of itself. It is a practical tool for anticipating risks, strengthening preparedness to future emergencies, and to promoting more resilient and sustainable development, and above all, for protecting human lives. Space should be used for the benefit of all of humankind. This is a principle that takes concrete form when we realize that space allows communities to get ahead of the El Niño phenomenon and strengthen early warning systems or reduce the impact of a disaster before it even strikes. Peru will continue to work constructively with all Member States in order to move towards inclusive space cooperation that is results-oriented and focused on the needs of people. I thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [21:48]: I thank the representative of Peru for his statement, and now I give the floor to the representative of Cameroon. You have the floor. Cameroon [21:59]: Thank you, Mr. Chair, for giving me the floor. Cameroon thanks the Chair of COPUOS for his briefing and commends the Committee for its vital work in fostering international cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space. We gather at a critical historical juncture. Outer space is no longer a distant canvas for scientific curiosity; it has become the nervous system of modern global civilization. It is the common heritage of all humankind. The foundational architecture laid down by the 1967 Outer Space Treaty explicitly dictates that the exploration and use of outer space must be carried out for the benefit and in the interest of all countries, irrespective of their level of economic or scientific development. Cameroon reaffirms its unwavering commitment to this principle. Outer space must remain an exclusively peaceful domain. We must collectively reject any paradigm that views Earth orbit as an arena for military projection or the deployment of weaponized systems. The preservation of space peace is not an abstract legal ideal; it is a binding socio-economic necessity for the developing world. Mr. Chair, distinguished delegates, a profound transformation is sweeping across Africa. Today, The continent is experiencing an unprecedented African space renaissance characterized by domestic policy formulation, capital commitments, and a unified voice. The crown jewel of this transformation is the official operationalization of the African Space Agency, which launches activities in April 2025 in Cairo, Egypt. AFSAR was not created to duplicate existing international efforts. Rather, it is our continental anchor designed to harmonize national space strategies, centralize data dissemination, and provide a single, sophisticated counterpart for international space collaboration. Its establishment marks a milestone in the realization of the African Union's Agenda 2063, the Africa we want. Mr. Chair, for Cameroon and the wider African continent, space science is not a luxury, nor is it a prestige project. It is an indispensable foundational asset for building resilient futures for over 1 billion citizens. Our nations are disproportionately bearing the brunt of global climate disruption. Without highly precise, localized Earth observation capabilities, our policies intervention remain blind. Satellite technology is the primary tool through which we can monitor rapid deforestation in the Congo Basin, the desertification of the Sahel, manage vital agricultural yields, optimize transcontinental telecommunications, and mitigate the devastating impacts of natural disasters. Space assets allows us to manage water scarcity, map mineral resources safely, and design smart urban centers for our rapidly growing populations. In short, access to space data is a direct prerequisite for achieving the SDGs. Mr. Chairman, ladies and gentlemen, Cameroon is not merely contented with theoretically embracing these concepts and these notions. We are proactively implementing them at the national level. And with the momentum from our telecommunications senior leadership, we are making headway in implementing our Farcom Space Program. And in this regard, my nation has made significant investments. We have mobilized pluridisciplinary expert teams in order to craft a global roadmap for a period of 20 years related to our ambitions, and we are undertaking to implement advanced data reception capabilities on our territory, enhancement of our meteorological and hydrological forecast initiatives, as well as AI and spatial robotics programs in our universities, which are being stepped up. And yet, as we are traversing these bold steps, we are encountering structural obstacles, such as those faced by a number of developing spacefaring nations, including related to space infrastructure and space-related advanced technologies. And this makes it necessary to have structural enforcements over the long term of our capabilities. Meaningful capacity building cannot be achieved through short-term, one-off measures, including training and workshops. There is a need for broader, institutional, proactive commitment with established space powers to train new young space professionals in specialized fields in this area. And in the Office of Space Affairs, we call upon the Office States affairs and all Member States who are in a capability to do so to step up targeted training initiatives. To that end, we urge COPUOS to adopt an initiative to craft legal and financial programs to facilitate transparent, balanced, and affordable access to dual-use technologies and for local assembly capabilities to be enhanced in this regard. In addition to the obstacles that need to be surmounted, Mr. Chairman, we note concern that there's a growing trend towards technological protectionism in the guise of commercial exclusivity when developing states have to be perpetual purchasers of space-related imageries, then digital and space-related gaps grow. And for this reason, we wish to reiterate our call for greater international space cooperation. This needs to move from boss-client to relationship to a more balanced one, an equitable one. We need to move away from symbolic partnerships. Real global partnerships need to include meaningful cooperation with the African Space Agency in order to establish manufacturing hubs, installation facilities as well in Africa, working together towards creating an inclusive international ecosystem which is based on open source arrangements. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, space exploration should not reflect the historic inequalities of our planet. We stand ready. Our space agency is operational, and we are working proactively and calling upon the international community to join us in an approach of equitable, peaceful, and accountable co-leadership in order to ensure that the benefits of space truly belong to all of humanity. Thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [29:11]: I thank the representative of Cameroon for his statement. And now I give the floor to the representative of Kenya. You have the floor. Kenya [29:22]: Mr. Chair, Kenya is honored to address this committee. reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the peaceful, inclusive, safe, secure, and sustainable use of outer space for the benefit of all humankind. We thank the Chair of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space for his briefing and commend COPUS for its leadership in advancing international dialogue, cooperation, and consensus on the peaceful exploration and use of outer space. As reflected in our In our national submission to COPUS earlier this year, Kenya continues to advance its national space program, focusing on art observation, scientific research, innovation, and human and technical capacity development. We regard outer space as a vital enabler of sustainable development, resilience, and socioeconomic transformation. For Kenya and other developing countries, outer space is not a distant frontier. It is an essential resource whose benefits must be accessible to all, irrespective of economic or scientific capacity. Mr. Chair, space-based data, services, and technologies support agricultural productivity and food security, climate resilience, environmental management, urban planning, and disaster preparedness and response. As climate-related risks and humanitarian emergencies intensify, Reliable space-based information is increasingly indispensable. Disruption to these services will affect developing countries with limited capacity to absorb their impacts. Preserving the safety, accessibility, and long-term sustainability of outer space is therefore a shared interest and collective responsibility. Kenya is working with regional partners to develop a climate monitoring payload for development. on International Space Station, supporting climate resilience, environmental and management, and food security. We are also investing in scientific expertise, innovation, and regional partnership to expand access to space technologies. In June 2026, Nairobi hosted the Global Data Festival and the Kenya Space Expo and Conference, highlighting the contribution of Earth observation, geospatial, technologies, artificial intelligence, and advanced data systems to sustainable development and resilience. This event also strengthened collaboration among policymakers, researchers, innovators, and industry. Building on this momentum, Kenya will host a regional space law technical advisory mission at Luigi Borghoglio Malindi Space Center from 10th to 13th November 2026. The mission will support African states in developing national space legislation, regulatory frameworks, and technical expertise for effective participation in space governance. These initiatives reflect Kenya's conviction that developing countries must be more than consumers of space-enabled services. They must also contribute to scientific knowledge, technological innovation and the governance framework shaping the future of outer space. International cooperation remains the cornerstone of the peaceful and beneficial use of outer space. Stronger partnerships, knowledge sharing, technical assistance, technology transfer, and scientific collaboration are essential to ensuring equitable access to its benefits, particularly for developing countries and emerging space actors. Kenya calls for strengthened support for initiatives that expand access to space-derived data, technologies, and applications. No country should be excluded from these benefits because of technological, financial, or institutional constraints. We commend the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs for its work in advancing education, technical assistance, capacity development, and international cooperation. Kenya underscores the central role of international space law, including the five United Nations treaties governing outer space activities, in ensuring peaceful, safe, and responsible exploration and use. As the sector evolves, adherence to these instruments remains essential, alongside continued efforts to address emerging legal and policy challenges associated with new actors, expanding commercial activities, and rapidly advancing technologies. We support implementation of guidelines for the long-term sustainability of outer space activities, enhanced cooperation on space situational awareness, and preparation for Unispace 4, addressing orbital congestion. Mitigating space debris and improving space traffic coordination require greater transparency, information sharing, and practical cooperation among all space actors. Kenya also emphasizes fair and equitable access to finite orbital resources, including orbital positions and radio frequency spectrum. Improved access to open and transparent orbital tracking information and related capabilities is particularly important for emerging space actors. Such cooperation enhances operational safety, strengthens resilience, and safeguards the long-term sustainability of outer space activity. As artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies become increasingly integrated into space activities, Their development and application must remain safe, responsible, inclusive, and consistent with international law. These technologies offer opportunities to improve satellite operations, Earth observation, scientific research, and disaster response. International cooperation must ensure that their benefits are widely shared, narrowing rather than widening existing development gaps. Mr. Chair, UNISPACE IV presents an important opportunity to renew our collective commitment to outer space as a domain of peaceful cooperation, scientific advancement, sustainable development, and shared prosperity. We must use this opportunity to strengthen global partnership and ensure that space governance responds to the needs and aspirations of all countries. In conclusion, Kenya remains committed to working with all Member States and stakeholders to advance equitable access to space benefits, strengthen international cooperation, and preserve outer space as a peaceful, sustainable, and accessible domain for present and future generations. I thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [36:34]: I thank the representative of Kenya for his statement. And now I give the floor to the representative of Thailand. You have the floor. Thailand [36:45]: Mr. Chair, our delegation extends our deepest condolences on the passing of Professor Theodoro Valente and commends his dedication and leadership. Thailand is grateful for the continued commitment demonstrated by His Excellency Mr. Mario Cospito as he assumes chairmanship of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space for 2026 to 2027. We also thank COPUS and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs for their steadfast commitment to promoting the peaceful uses of outer space. Mr. Chair, as space becomes increasingly vital to global affairs, Thailand reaffirms that outer space must be reserved exclusively for peaceful purposes as the common heritage of humankind, driving sustainable socioeconomic advancement without discrimination. In this regard, Thailand wishes to highlight three key priorities. First, we must preserve a rules-based international order in outer space, prevent an arms race, and ensure a safe and sustainable space environment. We reaffirm the 1967 Outer Space Treaty as the cornerstone of the international legal framework governing outer space. As the treaty approaches the 60th anniversary in 2027, Thailand calls on all states to renew commitments to responsible and transparent conduct in space activities. Thailand recognizes that space debris is a pressing global challenge that impacts the safety and sustainability of outer space. Thailand strongly supports COPUOS guidelines on long-term sustainability and space debris mitigation, as well as deliberations on space traffic management and resource governance. Regionally, we advocate for an ASEAN Space Situational Awareness and Traffic Management Task Force to build regional capacity and foster shared operational practices. We remain actively engaged in a 2025 to 2028 open-ended working group on the prevention of an arms race in outer space in all its aspects, contributing technical inputs to address emerging space security challenges. Second, we call for an enhanced international cooperation and capacity building so that no nation is left behind. We urge deeper partnerships between developed and developing countries in priority areas identified by developing countries, and support a stronger operational presence of COPUS and UNOOSA in the Asia-Pacific region. Thailand is honored to contribute to international space governance as Dr. Pakorn Aphaphan, Executive Director of GISDA, chaired the 63rd session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee earlier this year in Vienna. Under his leadership, progress was made on space sustainability, space weather, space and medicine, and nuclear power sources in outer space, and lunar orbital safety under the Action Team on Lunar Activities Consultation. To support these efforts, Thailand shared concrete technical tools, including our Garnet surveillance and tracking framework and CIRCOn space traffic management platform. As a bridge builder and trusted partner, Thailand remains committed to advancing capacity building, technical assistance, and data exchange. ensuring that the global South full share in space benefits. Third, Thailand reaffirms that peaceful space applications must be fully harnessed to advance the 2030 agenda for sustainable development and the Space 2030 agenda. Domestically, Thailand is strengthening its capabilities through the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, GISTA, including developing a National Space Act to establish a robust legal framework. A key milestone is our Theos-2 Earth observation satellite, which powers just this Dragonfly mobile application to assist farmers with crop planning and risk management, complemented by real-time radar flood mapping. Thailand is also contributing to deep space science with Thai-developed scientific payloads, such as the CE7 Match Photoscope and the Aligned Lunar Neutron Detector for upcoming international lunar missions. Furthermore, we are advancing frontier research in the Earth-Space Science System to drive climate adaptation, disaster risk management, water resources management, and commercial space innovation. Mr. Chair, outer space must remain a sanctuary for global solidarity rather than a theater of rivalry. As an emerging spacefaring nation, Thailand stands ready to partner with COPUS, UNOOSA, and all Member States to safeguard outer space as a peaceful, open, and sustainable domain. governed by international law and dedicated to the shared progress and well-being for future generations. I thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [41:05]: I thank the representative of Thailand for her statement, and now I give the floor to the representative of India. You have the floor. India [41:14]: Mr. Chair, India deeply values the role played by the United Nations Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space in ensuring and encouraging peaceful uses of outer space for humankind. Being a major spacefaring nation, India has vital development interest in space. We consistently support and advocate the need to preserve outer space as a common heritage of humankind. For over five decades, India has been pursuing its space activities with the vision of utilizing the applications of space technology for the benefit of the common man. Our space programme has always focused on integrating the advances in space, technology and applications with the national development goals. This is evident from the fact that the National Space Agency, Indian Space Research Organisation, is currently working with many ministries and departments of the government on promoting space technology tools and applications. During the last one year, India has had many launch vehicle and satellite missions. India's LMV-3 launch vehicle successfully launched the CMS-3, a multi-band communication satellite that will provide services over a wide oceanic region, including the Indian landmass. ISRO's GSLV-17 placed the EOS-5 Earth Observation Satellite in orbit on September 4th, 2026. Vikram-1, a small satellite launcher developed by an Indian space startup, Skyroot Aerospace, lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Center of ISRO on July 18, 2026. This launch is the first time that a private Indian company has undertaken an orbital launch of a rocket from Indian soil. As part of India's BRICS presidency, ISRO organized the BRICS Heads of Space Agencies meeting in Bengaluru on June 23rd and 24th, 2026. Heads of agencies and representatives from 10 BRICS countries participated in this meeting and discussed space cooperation under the BRICS umbrella. ISRO also hosted the 2026 annual event of the International Planetary Data Alliance. during May 2026. ISRO and the European Space Agency jointly organized an extensive five-day workshop on Aditya L1, Solar Orbiter, and Proba-3 during January 2026. ISRO has signed several MOUs with space agencies of various countries for cooperation in exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes. In conclusion, the Indian delegation would like to express its full support to this Committee in all its endeavours in promoting the peaceful uses of outer space. I thank you, Chair. 4th Committee · Chair [44:20]: I thank the representative of India for his statement. And now I give the floor to the representative of Italy. You have the floor. Italy [44:30]: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Distinguished delegates, Italy aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union, and I would like to add a few remarks in my national capacity. Italy is honoured to having assumed the chairmanship of the Committee on the Peaceful Use of Outer Space for the biennium 26-27. Our country approaches this responsibility with a strong sense of duty, openness and ambition. Duty, because COPUOS is the main multilateral forum for promoting the peaceful uses of outer space. Openness. because no country can address today's space challenges alone; ambition, because a space solution can and must contribute more directly to the lives of our citizens and to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. We are not talking about future possibilities, we are talking about present-day solutions. Italy commends the Chair of COPUOS, Ambassador Cospito, his team, and UNWASA for the considerable commitment and effort devoted to the preparation of this year's Omnibus Resolution. We recognize that the Italian Presidency has undertaken this process in an exceptionally complex context, amid unprecedented challenges for the COPUOS and its effective operation. Italy supports the Chairmanship's determination to pursue an ambitious, innovative, and constructive approach, with the aim of building consensus here in New York that could also help facilitate consensus in Vienna, where COPUOS discussions and deliberations take place. Aware of the broader recognition of the need to encourage clearer, more focused and coherent approaches to the work of the Committee, the proposed text represents indeed a meaningful step forward, with the aim of supporting Member States in better understanding the interconnections between the different issues addressed and make the outcome of the Committee's work more accessible and effective. At the same time, The substantive content of the resolution has been entirely preserved, so that the omnibus resolution keeps being a comprehensive framework for capturing the breadth of COPUOS activities and the different priorities of its membership. Its inclusive character is one of its defining strengths, and the text proposed for this session of the Fourth Committee preserves this inclusivity, as well as the delicate balance built over time. More broadly, This initiative forms part of a wider exercise aimed at ensuring that COPUOS working methods remain responsive to today's realities. Space activities are evolving rapidly, bringing both growing challenges and new opportunities. Working methods must remain fit for purpose, enabling the Committee to use its time and resources effectively and to deliver meaningful outcomes in response to these developments. This process requires ambition, but also flexibility, mutual understanding, and a genuine willingness to engage. It is a collective endeavor, and its success cannot rest on the efforts of the Chairmanship alone. All Member States share responsibilities for ensuring that COPUOS continues to fulfill its mandate effectively and maintains its role as a forum for international cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space. With this in mind, Italy encourages all delegations to engage constructively in the consideration of the draft resolution with a view to reaching the consensus that remains essential to the success of the Committee's work. Italy stands ready to contribute to this effort in a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility. Mr. Chair, let me conclude by reiterating Italy's appreciation for the work undertaken by the chairmanship and its support for the efforts to strengthen the effectiveness of COPUOS while preserving the inclusive spirit that is essential to its success. Italy stands ready to work with all Member States and stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of space reach every region, every economy, and every community. I thank you, Chair. 4th Committee · Chair [48:27]: I thank the representative of Italy for his statement. And now I give the floor to the representative of Maldives. You have the floor. Maldives [48:37]: Thank you, Chair. For an island state like Maldives spread across Indian Ocean, the ability to observe and connect territory across the distance is a part of ability to govern it. We therefore depend on space technology to monitor, connect, and protect our islands and maritime domain. The benefit of outer space be available to all countries, regardless of their size, resources, or technological capacity. International cooperation should therefore help countries use this benefit for themselves, not deepen technological dependence. In this regard, Maldives wishes to highlight four points. First, ensuring equal access to benefit of space technology. For small island state, satellite data and services are essential for climate monitoring, disaster preparedness, maritime safety, and sustainable development. There are practical models to build on. In the Pacific, shared satellite platform are helping island countries monitor coastline and environmental changes. Regional cooperation also combined satellite violence, shared intelligence, aircraft, and vessels to monitor vast ocean area. Such cooperation can be expanded. The model is therefore called for affordable access to space data, shared processing platform, and technical assistance that allows seats to use satellite information directly in national planning, disaster response, and maritime monitoring. Second, strengthening the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space. Space must remain domain of cooperation. Growing conjunction, space debris, and increasing number of actors operating in space present serious challenges. For countries that depend on satellite services without operating large space system of their own, disruption can affect weather forecasting, navigation, communication, and disaster response. The MOLDIS therefore supports stronger transparency, responsible behavior, and implementation of international agreed guideline. Third, ensuring that space governance keeps pace with new development. The international cooperation and effective implementation of outer space treaty must remain central. All state include those without advanced space program must have meaningful voice in shaping the rule of that govern outer space. Fourth, strengthening the participation of developing countries. Membership of COPUS gives Maldives greater access to technical cooperation. The Maldives also recognize the important role of UNOOSA in supporting developing countries through technical cooperation, training, and capacity building. The support should increasingly connect with national institutions that actually use space data information, including meteorological, disaster management, fisheries, environment, and mapping authorities. For SEEDS, the objective should be clear: move from project database access, sustain national capabilities, and space activities expanding, international cooperation must expand with them. The measure of that cooperation should be whether it leaves countries more capable of making and implementing decisions for themselves. For island states like Maldives, that means greater capability to see, understand, and manage the territory and ocean on which our people depends. I thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [52:42]: I thank the representative of Maldives for her statement. And now I give the floor to the representative of United Arab Emirates. You have the floor. United Arab Emirates [52:55]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United Arab Emirates reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the peaceful and responsible use of outer space. We renew our support for the pivotal role of the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space and the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs. We extend our sincere condolences on the passing of Mr. Teodoro Valente. We recall with great admiration his valuable contributions to supporting the Committee's work and promoting international cooperation in space. Mr. Chair, we commend the outstanding efforts made by Italy during its chairmanship of the Committee. We commend its effective leadership and firm commitment to advancing international dialogue and promoting consensus among Member States. From this platform, we reaffirm our continued support for efforts to promote international cooperation and the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space for the benefit of the entire international community. We renew our full commitment to international treaties and agreements on the use of outer space to which my country is a party. We affirm the continued development of our legislative system to ensure that space activities are conducted in accordance with the highest standards of safety and sustainability, and to enhance the participation of the private sector in this vital arena. As part of the National Space Strategy 2031, the UAE continues to build a competitive and sustainable space sector based on knowledge, innovation, and the empowerment of national talent. This year saw the unveiling of the nationally developed probe as part of the UAE's mission to explore the asteroid belt in preparation for the launch of the Mohammed bin Rashid Explorer in 2028 on a journey of about 5 billion kilometers to study seven asteroids. The UAE's Mars exploration mission, known as the Hope Probe, has also been extended until 2028 to continue its scientific contribution to the international scientific community. The Mohammed bin Rashid Space Center is also continuing its preparations for the Rashid 2 mission to the far side of the moon. On industry and applications. The At-Tahr-1 satellite, manufactured by Orbitworks, was launched this month. It's the first commercial Earth observation satellite equipped with AI to be manufactured in the UAE. It comes as part of a constellation of 10 Earth observation satellites operating with AI technology. Mr. Chair, we believe that space technologies are a tool to serve humanity. As such, we assume the presidency of the International Charter on Space and Major disasters between April and October 2026. During this period, we have worked with national authorities and international partners to harness satellite imagery and geospatial data to support countries affected by floods, earthquakes, forest fires, and other natural disasters. With the continued phenomenon of space debris and increasing congestion in orbit, which constitutes a prominent challenge facing the sustainability of space, we continue to support the implementation of the guidelines for the long-term sustainability of space activities and guidelines for mitigating space debris. In this context, we led the efforts to establish the Expert Group on Space Situation Awareness, which will continue its work until 2028. The group bases its work on a survey in which 96 experts from 40 countries participated and briefings provided by 18 Member States, in addition to written contributions from Member States and permanent observers. The group is currently working on two draft recommendations to address the most pressing issues. The first concerns the designation of contact points for satellite operators, including a contact point available all around the clock. And the second concerns the exchange of orbital information and spacecraft characteristics necessary to assess and avoid risks of collision. We thank all members of this group for their support and active participation in its work. We invite them to participate in our upcoming meetings to share their experiences and existing coordination mechanisms. In conclusion, the UAE reiterates its firm commitment to supporting the sustainability of space activities and promoting international cooperation. We look forward to working with all Member States to achieve common goals, believing that outer space is a right for all humanity and that keeping it safe and sustainable is a shared responsibility among all countries. Thank you, Mr. Chair. 4th Committee · Chair [58:03]: I thank the representative of United Arab Emirates for his statement, and now I give the floor to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. You have the floor. Democratic People's Republic of Korea [58:18]: Mr. Chair, unimpeded access to outer space is an inherent, legitimate right of a sovereign state, and the exploration and use of outer space should serve peaceful purposes and show the interest of humankind. Today, ever-increasing development of space technology and exploration of outer space provide countries with opportunities, and at the same time, give rise to serious challenges. In this regard, it is indispensable to address potential risks of space debris and possible collision of space objects. In particular, we express deep concerns about the hegemonic moves of specific forces to monopolize and militarize the outer space, which stand in the way of a peaceful use of outer space. In 2025, the U.S. proclaimed the Golden Dome anti-missile program aimed at development and deployment of space-based interceptor weapons worth $175 billion. and set out on its implementation thereafter. It has recently announced the development of the first-ever space aircraft carrier capable of launching small satellites into outer space. The Golden Dome program, an offensive space weapons system aimed at mounting preemptive strike against sovereign states, as well as a space aircraft carrier and the America First policy, will inevitably spark arms race and increase the potential risk of conflict in the domain of outer space. Such moves raise a question as to whether outer space will remain as a shared domain of peace and progress for the benefit of humankind. What cannot be overlooked is that, the U.S. and its allies are openly waging space war drills of different code names in and around the Korean Peninsula, thereby broadening the scope of anti-DPRK military threats and blackmail to outer space. It is a nonsense that those countries are labeling the DPRK’s satellite launch a just exercise of sovereign right. as a disguised ballistic missile launch, and even blocking DPRK's access to space-related international mechanisms and conferences, as well as exchange of space technology under the preposterous pretext of a possible division to development of WMDs. Mr. Chair, sorry, the DPRK's right to development of outer space is a legitimate and inalienable sovereign right. Under the wise leadership of Comrade Kim Jong-un, President of the State Affairs of the DPRK, my country is dynamically pushing forward with the development of outer space in line with the national law and policy. The DPRK has so far successfully launched several satellites as a part of the efforts to attain the immediate and long-term goals of its space policy. In addition, the DPRK has recently achieved versatility and high performance of artificial satellites and made significant technical progress in satellite control and operation on our own efforts. No matter what others say, the DPRK will continue to fully exercise the legitimate right of a sovereign state to develop outer space, and will join the efforts of the international community to promote a peaceful use of outer space as a state party to four major space-related treaties. Mr. Chair, my delegation would like to respond to the absurd accusation by the EU leveled against my country yesterday. We categorically reject the reckless remark of the EU representative as a political provocation. My delegation would like to highlight the following point in relation to the absurd statement of the EU representative. At present, the Korean Peninsula and its vicinity are faced with an extreme instability and further aggravated tension on a level different from last year due to the persistent hostility towards the DPRK and ever-increasing military confrontational moves of the U.S. and its followers. The military threats of the U.S. and its allies are unprecedented and continue to break the worst records. break the worst records in their scale, intensity, nature, and dangers, creating security instability on the Korean Peninsula on a level different from previous years. Nevertheless, no physical conflict has occurred on and around the Korean Peninsula, a hot spot of the world, and the security index is being maintained at a higher level than any other part of the globe. The regional balance of power maintained by the DPRK’s self-defence capabilities effectively curbs the risk of an armed conflict. Our national sovereignty and security have firmly been ensured by a bulwark of great strength so far, and will invariably be so in the years ahead. The DPRK categorically rejects the so-called Security Council resolution, since it flagrantly violates the inalienable right to development and existence of a sovereign state. The reckless remark of the EU representative constitutes a serious challenge to the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter, namely sovereign equality and non-interference in internal affairs. It is a demand to surrender all sovereign rights in doubt under the United Nations Charter and international law, including Outer Space Treaty. The DPRK remains firmly committed to fully exercise warranted, legitimate rights of a sovereign state in line with the United Nations Charter and Outer Space Treaty. In recent years, NATO has declared space an operational domain and conducted a number of space drills, including Steadfast Dual 26, to the deep concern of the international community. On the other hand, the EU and its member states continue to refute constructive proposals geared to preventing an arms race in outer space and ensuring use of outer space solely for peaceful purposes. As such, the EU is not entitled to preach other countries. The EU is strongly urged to deeply reflect on its poor track record and refrain from malignant prejudice and politically motivated smear campaign in this august forum. I thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [1:04:49]: I thank the representative of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea for his statement, and now I give the floor to the representative of Russian Federation. You have the floor. Russian Federation [1:05:02]: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for having given me the floor. Mr. Chairman, distinguished colleagues, it is with great pride that we note that the current meeting of the Fourth Committee, dedicated to consideration of agenda item, international cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space, is occurring on the 65th anniversary of the first manned flight in outer space, which was carried out by the Soviet citizen Yuri Gagarin. This was a watershed in human civilization with the discovery of previously unattainable horizons, a triumph of science and technology, an emblem of human courage. I should also like to recall another milestone. the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the Council for International Cooperation in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, Intercosmos. This was the first largely unique project for the development of multilateral cooperation involving more than 10 states in the research and exploration of outer space. Under the Intercosmos program, colossal volume of joint research was carried out, including observation experiments with the use of more than 100 outer space mechanisms and a multitude of special devices developed in participating states. The Interkosmos example has shown how building programs for research in outer space paves new ground for greater international cooperation, which in turn becomes a starting point and ushers in more ambitious programs for the research and exploration of the universe. Since then, humankind has achieved significant success in the exploration of the near-Earth environment. There is ongoing successful multilateral cooperation underway at the International Space Station. The contours have been outlined for researching the loon, other celestial bodies, and deep space. There has been a significant increase in the number of participants in space-related activity. Not only new technologies have emerged, but also risks have also surfaced, risks linked to supporting long-term resilience and safety and security of space operations. Mr. Chairman, the Russian Federation reaffirms the central role of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. as the cornerstone for international space law. We believe that any new initiatives, designs, or models for the use of near-Earth space need to align strictly with the principles of the above-mentioned treaty, which are fundamental and cannot be cast into doubt amid technological breakthroughs and attempts to monopolize certain areas of outer space activity. We object to any forms of discrimination or the limiting of access to modern-day technologies and international programs on political motivations which are entirely unrelated to outer space, we believe that it is indeed the full-fledged participation of all States, including developing States, that is a key prerequisite for effective space exploration. We consistently call for strengthening the central role of the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space in addressing the broadest possible range of issues related to peaceful space activity. Amid modern-day challenges, COPUOS and its subcommittees represent a unique platform for constructive dialogue and cooperation where the interests of all States irrespective of their size or socio-economic development levels, are taken into account without discrimination. The need for developments of the Committee grows in connection with the expansion of avenues for peaceful space cooperation. These include ensuring long-term resilience and safety and security for space activity, exploration of space resources, monitoring the situation in the near-Earth environment, dealing with the consequences of space debris. as well as governing the deployment in low Earth orbits of so-called large groups of small space devices. We believe it is possible to enhance the effectiveness of the operations of COPUOS, including by enhancing coordination amongst its subcommittees and by stepping up the participation of all stakeholders, including developing states. Yet, we categorically object to the radical restructuring of the Committee by abandoning the intergovernmental nature of its work and the principle of consensus in decision-taking. We are confident, we believe We firmly believe that the UN liquidity crisis must not become a justification for deliberately undermining the quality of the work of COPOS and transferring discussion of topical issues on its agenda to parallel platforms, first and foremost, ICAO and the ITU, as well as addressing UN80 implementation-related financial problems by tapping into extra-budgetary resources, including from private sector representatives. We are keen to reach agreement on realistic proposals regarding the content, possible outcomes, as well as organizational modalities and venue for the UN High-level Conference on Outer Space, UNISPACE 40. We believe that one of the results of UNISPACE IV could be generating additional momentum for discussions at the Committee on the basis of the concept of distribution of the benefits of outer space to ensure equitable and non-discriminatory access for all States to the exploration of space for the benefit of socio-economic development. Mr. Chairman, the Russian Federation consistently objects to the militarization of outer space. We categorically repudiate attempts to transform outer space into an arena for armed confrontation. We wish to once again draw attention to the exceedingly dangerous tendencies of a number of states use of large groups of small commercial devices and the corresponding on-earth infrastructure registered as systems with civilian purposes to support the armed hostilities of foreign armed forces and to intervene in the domestic affairs of sovereign states. Certain states are not even concealing the fact of purely military space infrastructure being used for military purposes in areas of armed conflict, private commercial systems are directly being used as a means to provide support for hostilities, for example, for intelligence and information, for military command and control, for targeting, for precision-guided use of munitions, including UAV systems. These capabilities have a global coverage with the potential use in any corner of the world, the overwhelming majority of UN Member States lack effective means of resistance. All of this is casting into doubt a multitude of socio-economic processes on ground, imperiling them and undermining the pillars for long-term sustainability of space activity. We believe it is unacceptable to have such reckless policies being carried out, policies which undermine the concerted efforts of the States of the peaceful majority ensuring the exclusively peaceful use of space technologies for the achievement of expedited socioeconomic development for the benefit of all peoples of the world. Highlighting this issue is the focus of the updated General Assembly resolution on space, space science and technology for promoting peace. We invite all interested delegations to demonstrate a principled approach, ensuring the adoption of this document during this session of the United Nations General Assembly. I wish to thank you for your attention. 4th Committee · Chair [1:14:04]: I thank the representative of Russian Federation for his statement, and now I give the floor to the representative of Ethiopia. You have the floor. Ethiopia [1:14:16]: Mr. Chair, my delegation is pleased to participate in the discussion on international cooperation in the peaceful use of outer space. Ethiopia reaffirms its strong commitment to the peaceful exploration, science, and use of outer space for the benefit of all countries and peoples. Space science and technology have become important tools for achieving sustainable development, addressing climate change, protecting the environment, strengthening disaster risk reduction, and advancing sustainable development goals. The transformative potential and the benefits of space technology should be accessible to all. However, a significant space divide persists as developing countries continue to face considerable financial, technological, and institutional hurdles. Ethiopia, therefore, emphasizes the importance of international cooperation, capacity building, technical assistance, knowledge sharing, and technology transfer. These efforts are essential to bridge the space divide and enable developing countries to build national capacity and use space technology to address their development priorities. We also attach importance to the Space 2030 agenda and its role in ensuring that space science and technology should contribute effectively to the implementation of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Mr. Chair, the long-term sustainability of outer space is a shared responsibility that demands urgent and collective action. The growing number of space objects and space activities requires stronger international cooperation and responsible behavior. Ethiopia supports immediate measures and continued international efforts to address space debris mitigation and space traffic management to protect the space environment for present and future generations. Ethiopia also reaffirms that outer space must remain a domain for peaceful purposes. We encourage all States to fully respect international space law, including the principles and obligations contained in the Outer Space Treaty. We remain concerned about the risks associated with an arms race in outer space. Ethiopia supports continued multilateral efforts to prevent such an arms race and encourages progress towards an effective and legally binding instrument in this regard. Transparency, confidence-building measures, and responsible behavior are also important in strengthening trust and stability in outer space. Mr. Chair, as a member of the Committee on the Peaceful Use of Outer Space since 2018, Ethiopia attaches great importance to the work of the Committee and to its role in promoting international cooperation in the peaceful use of outer space. Ethiopia is committed to to strengthening its national space capabilities and to using space science and technology in support of sustainable development, environmental protection, and disaster risk management. In conclusion, my delegation reiterates its unwavering support for the work of COPUS in ensuring that outer space remains a secure domain and a zone of peace. Through stronger international cooperation, equitable access, capacity building, and the responsible use of outer space, we can ensure that the benefit of space science and technology reach all countries and contribute to a more sustainable and peaceful future. I thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [1:18:02]: I thank the representative of Ethiopia for his statement. And now I give the floor to the representative of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. You have the floor. United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland [1:18:14]: Thank you, Chair. Let me first express our deepest condolences to the delegation of Italy for the passing of Professor Teodoro Valente. Professor Valente's dedication to advancing space science, technology, and international cooperation earned him respect and admiration around the world, and his contributions will leave a legacy. Chair, as our reliance on space grows, international cooperation is essential to keeping outer space peaceful, safe, and sustainable. The UK remains a strong supporter of COPUOS and its vital role, supported by UNOSA, in addressing a rapidly evolving space environment. This has been a difficult year for COPUOS. Too much of our time went on process and not enough on substance. The space environment is changing quickly, and the Committee must keep up. The UK welcomes the leadership of Italy as COPUOS President and the more proactive approach from UNOSA. We thank them and all delegations for the constructive spirit that allowed agreement on the 2027 schedule of work. We support dedicating more time to technical work in working groups and expert groups, less time to adopting reports, and creating more time for discussions with emerging space actors. It is imperative, and the UK cannot stress this enough, that COPUS finds new ways to attract and engage expertise from industry and academia. We look forward to working with all members to ensure that COPWUS remains active, relevant, and meaningful throughout 2027. Despite the challenges faced, important work has continued across COPWUS this year. The UK welcomes a return to expert-driven discussions within the frame of the Long-Term Sustainability Working Group. We've seen progress within the Space Situational Awareness Coordination Expert Group, including voluntary recommendations towards safer and more sustainable space operations. We look forward to UK experts continuing to participate in discussions on challenges identified by the working group. The UK has continued to engage with the working group on the legal aspects of space resources. The principles being developed here are vital for giving clarity on the use of space resources, and we urge states to work towards a consensus set of principles before its mandate expires in 2027. With the first UK commercial lunar mission set to launch next year, we look forward to continuing discussions about lunar debris and the importance of coordination between missions on the Moon in the Action Team on Lunar Activities consultation. The UK remains a strong supporter and founding member of the Artemis Accords, which now bring together 76 signatories. This year, the UK worked with Japan and the Republic of Korea to develop voluntary recommendations on lunar debris mitigation and disposal management, demonstrating how the Accords can support practical cooperation on safe and sustainable exploration. Ensuring the long-term sustainability of outer space must go hand in hand with efforts to reduce threats to space and prevent conflict. The UK supports the distinct but complementary work of COPUS and the OEWG in advancing these objectives. Norms, guidelines, and confidence-building measures are essential tools for risk reduction. They can enhance transparency and predictability, reducing the risk of miscalculation and unintended escalation. We reject approaches based on difficult-to-define capabilities, but are open to legally binding measures where robust verification is possible. Earlier this year, the UK published its new space strategy, setting out a focused approach to strengthening our capabilities, safeguarding national and collective security, and supporting economic growth. This includes developing enabling regulatory approaches, such as regulatory sandboxes, that support innovation. In closing, international collaboration is central to our approach, recognizing that the opportunities and challenges we face in space cannot be addressed by any country acting alone. I thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [1:22:21]: I thank the representative of United Kingdom for his statement. And now I give the floor to the representative of Liberia. You have the floor. Liberia [1:22:31]: Thank you. Mr. Chair, Liberia aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the African Group and the Group of 77 and China, and wishes to deliver the following remarks in its national capacity. Mr. Chair, outer space science and technology have become increasingly important in addressing global challenges and advancing sustainable development. Satellite communications, Earth observation, Weather forecasting, disaster rates reduction, and navigation technologies prove valuable tools for improving lives, strengthening national resilience, and supporting economic growth. For Liberia, these technologies offer important opportunities to advance national development priorities. Second, space-based applications can advance national development priorities. strengthening agricultural productivity and food security, improve environmental monitoring, support climate change adaptation, enhance coastal protection, and contribute to disaster preparedness and response. Liberia believes that the benefits of space science and technology should not be limited to countries with advanced technological and financial capabilities. All states, particularly developing countries, must have meaningful opportunities to assess and benefit from these advancements. We therefore call for strengthening international cooperation through capacity building, technical assistance. scientific exchange, training, and partnerships that enable developing countries to develop the expertise and institutional capabilities necessary to participate effectively in space activities. Mr. Chair, Liberia emphasizes the importance of preserving outer space as a peaceful and secure environment for present and future generations. We reaffirm the significance of international space law, particularly the principles enshrined in the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, which provides the foundation for exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes. As space activities continue to expand, the international community must strengthen efforts to prevent an arms race in outer space and promote transparency, confidence building, and responsible conduct. Space must remain a platform for scientific discovery and international collaboration, rather than an arena for military confrontation or geopolitical rivalry. Liberia also recognizes the growing challenge of space debris and the importance of ensuring the long-term sustainability of outer space activities. We encourage Member States to strengthen international cooperation in the mitigation of space debris, the exchange of relevant information, and the development of responsible practices that protect space environment and preserve access to outer space for future generations. Mr. Chair, as a member of the African community, Liberia recognizes the importance of strengthening Africa’s participation in space science and technology. Regional cooperation, investment in scientific education, research partnerships, and knowledge sharing can help African countries harness space-based applications to address development challenges. We encourage closer collaboration between the United Nations, the African Union, regional institutions, and international development partners to expand access to space technologies and strengthening the technical capacities of African states. Liberia further underscores the important role of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs in promoting international dialogue, supporting capacity building, and ensuring that space activities contribute to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Mr. Chair, international cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space must be guided by inclusivity, mutual respect, shared responsibility, and the recognition that the benefits of space science and technology should serve all humanity. The Republic of Liberia stands ready to support constructive multilateral efforts that promote the peaceful exploration and use of outer space, strengthening international partnerships, and ensure that developing countries are not left behind in the evolving space sector. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, Liberia calls for all Member States to renew their commitment to making outer space a domain of peace, scientific progress, cooperation, and sustainable development. Let us work together to ensure that outer space serves not as a source of division, but as a shared opportunity to advance international peace, improve human well-being, and build a more equitable and sustainable future for all. Thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [1:28:05]: I thank the representative of Liberia for his statement. And now I give the floor to the representative of Panama. You have the floor. Panama [1:28:17]: Chair, Panama wishes to express its appreciation and congratulations to the Italian Presidency of COPUOS for the hard work carried out during this session, especially in a context of growing political tensions that have affected the multilateral work in the area of space. We also recognize the valuable work of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, UN OOSA. in promoting international cooperation and the development of national capacities. We would like to take a moment to honour the memory of Professor Teodoro Valente and recognize his outstanding contribution to the work of this Committee. Chair, scientific and technological advances have rapidly expanded the possibilities for exploring and using outer space. Applications allow us to better understand our planet, monitor the effects of climate change, strengthen communications networks, and contribute to disaster prevention and response. Nonetheless, these opportunities also raise a shared responsibility to ensure that their benefits reach all states, regardless of their level of scientific or technological development, and also to place the common good first. Our geographical position between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, as well as our exposure to natural phenomena, make international cooperation in space matters particularly valuable to us, especially when it comes to strengthening our capacity for Earth observation, environmental protection, and emergency preparedness. In this area, we highlight the Copernicus LAC Center established in Panama through cooperation with the European Union and the European Space Agency. This center facilitates exchange of knowledge and the strengthening of scientific and technological capacities in our region. A concrete example of this cooperation occurred following the recent earthquake of October 9th in our country, of unprecedented magnitude of 7.7. This earthquake had serious consequences for the community in the provinces of Coqule, Royal, Los Santos, Veraguas, and the interior of the country. In response to this emergency, the Copernicus Emergency Management Service and the International Charter on Space and Major Disasters and the United Nations agencies contributed through satellite information and analysis to help us identify and assess damage and to monitor ground displacement. This assistance complemented national assessment and response capacity, as well as the work of our scientific institutions, including our Institute of Geosciences of the University of Panama, highlighting the value of international cooperation to apply space technologies to the protection of affected populations. Chair, taking advantage of these scientific and technological advances must be accompanied by respect for international law and by responsible practices that guarantee the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space. Panama reaffirms its commitment to the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, approved by our national law 381 of 2023, and also to the principles of the Artemis Agreements, and also appreciates the UNOOS's technical assistance in advancing in the development of a national regulatory framework that allows us to now space activities to be authorized and supervised in accordance with international obligations. We reiterate our support for the Space 2030 Agenda. and for the guidelines on long-term sustainability and space debris reduction while promoting international cooperation in space situational awareness, collision avoidance, and information sharing in order to preserve the sustainability of the orbital environment. Chair, Panama is grateful for the trust placed in us as we take up in 2027 this chairpersonship of the COPUOS Subcommittee. We will exercise this responsibility with impartiality and a constructive spirit, and the search for consensus between Member States, with full respect for the mandate of the Subcommittee. Panama will continue to contribute to strengthening international law and multilateral cooperation as part of the conviction that we hold that both of these are essential to guaranteeing peaceful exploration and use of outer space is developed for the benefit of all. I thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [1:32:45]: I thank the representative of Panama for her statement, and I give the floor to the representative of Japan. You have the floor. Japan [1:32:55]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Japan reaffirms its strong commitment to international cooperation on the peaceful uses of outer space in accordance with international law. We'll continue to contribute at multilateral fora and leverage our experience and technology for the benefit of all. Japan welcomes the achievements of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, COPUS, and its discussions on the safety, security, sustainability, and stability of outer space. Japan also recognizes the important role of the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs, UNOOSA, in promoting international cooperation and capacity building. Today, Japan would like to highlight four priorities: compliance with the Outer Space Treaty, sustainability of space activities, international cooperation, and capacity building to strengthen the rule of law in outer space. First, As the number of space actors grows, all states must conduct their activities responsibly and in accordance with the existing frameworks as well as international law. Japan stresses the importance of compliance with the Outer Space Treaty, including not to place in orbit around the Earth any objects carrying nuclear weapons or any other kinds of weapons of mass destruction, Outer space must remain free from nuclear weapons. Second, Japan is committed to mitigating and remediating space debris through domestic legislation and guidelines. We underscore the importance of the guidelines for the long-term sustainability of outer space activities and encourage member states and international organizations to further strengthen their implementation. Japan will continue to contribute to the Working Group on the Long-term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities, including through the Expert Group on Space Situational Awareness. Third, Japan promotes international space cooperation for the benefit of all humankind. Collaboration with international partners and the contributions to the International Space Station, ISS, remain central to our space exploration and scientific activities. Last week, JAXA successfully launched its Martian Moon's Exploration, MMX, mission aboard Japan's H3 rocket. The mission aims to explore Phobos and return samples to Earth by 2031. It exemplifies international collaboration, with NASA, CNES, DLR, and ESA contributing to efforts to investigate the origins of Mars' moons and advance planetary science. Japan supports emerging spacefaring nations in gaining access to space through Kibo Cube, a joint program with UNOSA and JAXA, which marks its 11th anniversary this year. Through Kibo Cube and Sentinel Asia, Japan leverages its technological strengths to build capacity and ensure that the benefits of space are widely shared. In lunar exploration, Japan is cooperating with the U.S. under a 2024 implementing arrangement with NASA, which provides for cooperation on the pressurized lunar rover and two flight opportunities for Japanese astronauts on the lunar surface. Japan is also cooperating with the space agencies of India, the U.S., and Europe on the Lunar Polar Exploration Mission, LUPEX, which is scheduled to launch in 2028. Japan promotes capacity building to strengthen the rule of law in outer space through the Global Space Law Project with UNOOSA and the National Space Legislation Initiative under the Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum. As part of these efforts, a regional technical advisory mission is scheduled to take place in Tokyo in January 2027. with participants from seven Asia-Pacific countries through our Official Development Assistance, ODA. Japan also supports socio-economic development and human capacity building in developing countries using space technology and Earth observation data. Mr. Chair, regarding the draft resolution entitled “Space Science and Technology for Promoting Peace”, Japan attaches great importance to the central role of COPUOS and believes that initiatives in this field should build on its work and complement, rather than duplicate, existing efforts, including those reflected in the annual omnibus resolution. Therefore, Japan questions whether this draft resolution offers any added value in the first place. I thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [1:38:19]: I thank the representative of Japan for his statement, and now I give the floor to the representative of Timor-Leste. You have the floor. Timor-Leste [1:38:32]: We express our appreciation to the Committee on the Peaceful Use of Outer Space, COPUS, and the United Nations Office of Outer Space Affairs, UNOOSA, for their continued effort to advance international cooperation in peaceful exploration and use of outer space. Today, space science and technology play an increasingly important role in our daily lives. from communication, navigation, to weather forecasting and disaster preparedness. Yet access to these benefits remains uneven. International cooperation is therefore essential to ensuring that advances in space technology serve the interest of all countries, regardless of their size or level of development. Mr. Chair, in this regard, Timor-Leste wishes to highlight the following points: First, preserving outer space for peaceful and sustainable use. We reaffirm our support for the principle that exploration and use of outer space should benefit all countries. Growing orbital congestion, space debris, and emerging activities present challenges to the safety and sustainability of the space environment. We therefore support continued efforts to strengthen international norms, transparency, and responsible conduct, while encouraging the implementation of existing COPUOS guidelines and further dialogue on measures to address these challenges. Second, harnessing space technology for disaster resilience and sustainable development. As a small island developing state, vulnerable to climate-related hazard and natural disaster, Timor-Leste recognizes the importance of satellite-based early warning system, Earth observation, and environmental monitoring. This technology can help government anticipate risks, protect communities and livelihoods, and improve in planning in areas such as agriculture, water management, and climate adaptation. Third, strengthening equitable access and capacity building. For many developing countries such as Timor-Leste, limited resources and technical capacities remain barrier to benefiting fully from space technologies. We therefore encourage stronger partnership, including through UNOOSA initiatives and South-South cooperation, to help countries develop the capacities needed to make effective use of space-based technology in support of their national development priorities. Mr. Chair, we recognize the emerging challenges in outer space require sustained dialogue and international cooperation. We therefore encourage continued efforts to build consensus and strengthen cooperation through COPUOS, ensuring that this work remains inclusive and responsive to the needs of all countries. The peaceful use of outer space is not only about scientific progress; it is also about protecting life, strengthening resilience, and creating opportunities for future generations. Thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [1:42:15]: I thank the representative of Timor-Leste for her statement, and now I give the floor to the representative of Hall A/C. You have the floor. Holy See [1:42:24]: Mr. Chair, outer space is a common good entrusted to the responsibility of the entire human family. Its exploration and use hold extraordinary promise for scientific advancement and integral human development. However, it is essential that such progress benefits all peoples without creating new inequalities or exclusions. As set out in the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, the exploration and utilization of outer space shall be carried out for the benefit and in the interest of all countries, regardless of their degree of development. Space-based technologies represent a valuable means of addressing the pressing challenges facing our planet, including climate change, food insecurity, water scarcity, and natural disasters. Therefore, there is a need for greater international cooperation, particularly in terms of capacity building and sharing of scientific knowledge, so that developing countries can benefit fully from these advances. Furthermore, the expansion of space activities demands greater care for the space environment. Increasing orbital congestion and space debris, coupled with growing commercial activities, present challenges that require a coordinated international response. A responsible stewardship of outer space, with the objective of ensuring that scientific and technological progress does not compromise its peaceful and sustainable use by future generations, is imperative. Mr. Chair, the role of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space in fostering dialogue and international cooperation is paramount. As space activities continue to expand, It is essential that multilateral cooperation and mutual trust are strengthened to ensure that these activities are conducted responsibly and peacefully. The Holy See, therefore, encourages States to pursue their common efforts to preserve outer space as a realm of peace, stability, and cooperation for the benefit of present and future generations. Thank you, Mr. Chair. 4th Committee · Chair [1:44:55]: I thank the representative of Holy See for his statement. We have heard the last speaker for this meeting. As announced earlier, the working group of the Hall will meet in a closed setting immediately following the adjournment of this meeting in this conference room. The Fourth and First Committee will hold a joint panel discussion on possible challenges to space security and sustainability tomorrow, Thursday, 29 of October, at 10:00 AM in this conference room. The draft program for the joint panel has been circulated last Thursday, 22nd of October, via a delegate. On Friday, 30 October, the Committee will convene at 10:00 AM in this conference room to conclude its general debate on this item and to take action on the draft proposal submitted under agenda item 46 A. The meeting is adjourned. I thank you. Russian Federation, you have the floor. Russian Federation [1:46:57]: I would like to thank you, Mr. Chairman. My delegation wishes to pose a question having to do with tomorrow’s joint meeting of the First and Fourth Committees, which you just mentioned. We noted that a document has been circulated, and we are grateful for this. And the document which was circulated points to the fact that delegations will have an opportunity in their national capacity to speak during 3 minutes, 3 minutes speaking time, and we are aware. That this is a working method that was approved. At the first committee for delegations to have three minutes speaking times, but at the fourth committee here, we have 10 minutes speaking times. And I would like to seek clarification, Mr. Chairman, who took the decision and when regarding the working methods for the joint meeting? Thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [1:48:32]: Okay, my understanding was that the consultation is ongoing on this issue, but you're right, the proceedings of the First Sea is taken as a main proceeding for this panel. Russian Federation, you have the floor. Russian Federation [1:49:17]: I would like to thank you, Mr. Chairman, for the clarification. And it seems to me that the corresponding decision at the Fourth Committee was not adopted. Perhaps it might be appropriate to ask delegations whether or not they concur with this procedure. Thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [1:49:51]: Yeah, I think in light of your proposal, if there are any objection or proposal on this issue, please inform us right now in the plenary or afterwards. Russian Federation, you have the floor. Russian Federation [1:50:18]: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Our delegation deems it feasible and advisable to adhere to the Fourth Committee’s working methods. We do not perceive that there are any particular exceptional obligations that may compel delegations in their statements to limit themselves to three-minute limits. Therefore, our proposal would be that the working methods of the First Committee apply and for agreement to be reached, for delegations to have the opportunity to speak for 10 minutes. Thank you. 4th Committee · Chair [1:50:51]: Are there any other delegations that support this proposal or have another proposal on the subject? If not, we take note of your proposal and we will take a decision before the panel discussion on Thursday. Thank you. The meeting is adjourned. Thank you.