(Continued) The safety and protection of waterways in the maritime domain - Security Council, 10145th meeting

The 10,145th meeting of the Security Council is resumed. I wish to remind all speakers to limit their statements to no more than three minutes in order to enable the Council to carry out its work expeditiously. The flashing light on the microphone will prompt speakers to bring their remarks to a close after three minutes. I now give the floor to the representative of Ecuador.

Madam President, Ecuador was one of the 136 Member States that co-sponsored resolution 28/17, which condemns any action or threat designed to close or obstruct international navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Along the same lines, my country aligned itself with the joint press statement on maritime security read by His Excellency the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain, which received the backing of dozens of Member States. These initiatives reflect the increasing concern among the international community in light of attacks on maritime security. We therefore wish to thank Bahrain for convening this open debate. and we thank them also for these initiatives. The illegal obstruction of the Strait of Hormuz attests to a worrisome reality. International waterways are increasingly vulnerable to deliberate disruption, pressure, and threats. Ecuador reaffirms that international law, in particular the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, is the essential foundation to guarantee stability and predictability in the maritime domain. Let's be clear, freedom of navigation, including the right to innocent passage and the transit passage regime through straits used by international navigation, cannot be the subject of arbitrary restrictions nor political instrumentalization. Respect for these rights is essential to ensure the functioning of global trade and energy security. Any interference with these rights represents a threat to international peace and security. Madam President, colleagues, these tensions with regard to maritime security are compounded by a persistent threat that is transnational organized crime, drugs trafficking, the illicit trafficking of arms and persons, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing exploit maritime routes and surveillance vacuums affecting the security of waterways and the integrity of global logistics chains. These networks worsen instability and weaken the rule of law at sea. No state can address this challenge alone. A A firm, coordinated response is needed, based on the exchange of intelligence, operational cooperation and capacity building. For Ecuador, this is a national priority. As is noted by our President, Daniel Noboa, transnational organized crime is a direct threat to state security and to the well-being of our societies. In the maritime domain, we are directly facing the impact of drugs trafficking. that uses our coasts and ports within illicit global networks. In light of these challenges, Ecuador has strengthened our maritime surveillance, stepped up interdiction operations, and enhanced interagency coordination, while also updating our legal framework. At a regional level, we are promoting coordinated responses and the exchange of information. International cooperation is key here. Madam President, the protection of international waterways demands consistency and steadfastness. We cannot defend global trade and at the same time accept restrictions to navigation or the expansion of organized crime at sea. The Security Council must act clearly, reaffirming respect for international law and promoting comprehensive responses to these threats. Today, more than ever, what is needed is political will. effective cooperation, and an unstinting commitment to multilateralism.

I thank the representative of Ecuador for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Yemen.

At the outset, I would like to thank you for convening this important debate. The Minister's presidency over this debate reflects the importance that the King of Bahrain attaches to maritime security and Bahrain's awareness of the need to confront maritime security challenges effectively and to strengthen collective responses to ensure their safety and protection. In particular, at this critical juncture when the world is witnessing an unprecedented escalation in threats targeting freedom of international navigation and the security of vital waterways. We also express our appreciation to the Secretary-General and the briefers for their briefings. Madam President, the Republic of Yemen attaches great importance to the security of international navigation, stemming from our strategic location overlooking the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, one of the most vital maritime passages in the world, which is a critical link between East and West. through which a significant portion of global trade and supplies of oil and liquefied natural gas transit. The developments in the Strait of Hormuz, preceded by the terrorist Houthi militias attacks in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, have demonstrated the extent to which these passages are sensitive to global energy security and the stability of the global economy. Any disruption in their traffic or threat to the freedom of passage is directly reflected in trade and energy supplies, essential commodities, and global economic stability, and it increases the burden on peoples around the world. This underscores the need to respect freedom of navigation in all seas, oceans, and waterways, and all of states' adherence to the Charter of the United Nations and international law, and in particular, UNCLOS. Madam President, the Republic of Yemen underscores the -- we condemn all the attacks against the Strait of Hormuz as a violation of international law and the principle of the freedom of navigation. We emphasize that the attempt -- that any attempt by Iran to obstruct the transit and freedom of navigation is a threat to international maritime security. And accordingly, we emphasize that the security of these two vital straits is not just a regional issue, but a cornerstone of international peace and security. Accordingly, there must be a united and firm international response that guarantees the freedom of navigation and that deters any threats against them. We call on the Security Council to uphold its responsibility in the maintenance of regional and international peace and security and adopting the necessary measures to end any attempt to obstruct international navigation. Madam President, the Yemeni Government has previously warned repeatedly that the threats that result from the continued support to the Iranian-supported militias and the extended conflict in Yemen and their threats against international navigation represents a threat to international and regional security. The developments have confirmed our warnings and have revealed the degree to which there is a direct link between the Houthi militias and the Iranian regime. Accordingly, Yemen stresses the importance of all member states' compliance with their obligations and the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 2216 and relevant security resolutions, Security Council resolutions, including the targeted arms embargo, and to hold accountable everyone who contributes to undermining the implementation of the resolutions, including the Iranian regime. We call for enhanced practical cooperation, including with the government of Yemen, and the development of maritime surveillance capabilities and further cooperation to prevent the flow of weapons and military technology to the terrorist Houthi militias. We further underscore the importance of activating the role of the verification and inspection mechanism, ensuring its funding, and strengthening its capacities. Madam President, the protection of vital waterways is a collective responsibility that requires a coordinated and comprehensive international response. No state alone can confront these growing threats. In this regard, we emphasize the importance of building upon the existing regional and international frameworks, including the Djibouti Code of Conduct, and It's Jeddah amendment and the vital role of the regional maritime information sharing center, which has proven its effectiveness in enhancing coordination and information sharing among coastal states and also its effectiveness in combating maritime threats. We also stress the importance of the Security Council undertaking a more integrated and proactive role in addressing maritime threats, including through enhancing coordination between the existing international mechanisms, supporting capacity building, and ensuring the effective implementation of the relevant resolutions. In conclusion, we affirm the importance of the international community adopting a comprehensive and effective strategy that integrates national efforts with those of regional and international partners. We hope this meeting will result in a firm collective position that reflects the magnitude of the current challenges and that will adopt the necessary steps to protect freedom of international navigation and to deter violations against regional and international peace and security. Thank you, Madam President.

I now give the floor to the representative of Malta.

Thank you, Madam President. Malta thanks the Kingdom of Bahrain for convening this very timely debate. We also are grateful to the UN Secretary-General, to the IMO Secretary-General and Mr Nick Childs for their very insightful briefings. Malta aligns itself with the statements delivered by the European Union and Singapore and is making this statement in its national capacity. President, Malta is a maritime nation with a history inextricably linked to the sea. As a small island state, we are acutely aware that maritime security is not an abstract concern, nor is it a challenge confined solely to coastal regions. Disruptions to shipping routes and waterways carry wider implications for global stability, trade and the socio-economic well-being. We observe with growing concern the developments that challenge the legal framework established by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which codifies customary international law. We recall that the Convention sets as a central objective the realization of a just and equitable international economic order for the benefit of all. Upholding its principles is inseparable from the maintenance of international peace and security. Situations affecting key maritime waterways, including in the Black Sea, the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, underscore how disruptions in the maritime domain carry broader consequences for both regional and international stability. President, at the humanitarian level, we must address the impact of actions affecting commercial shipping and those who depend on it. We reiterate our concern at incidents involving commercial vessels and the risks faced by seafarers and fishers. Let us not forget that seafarers and fishers are civilians whose service underpins global supply chains and food security. We must also insist on the protection of commercial shipping as the bedrock of the global economy. The maritime domain is also facing evolving challenges that require our collective action. Vessels operating outside established regulatory frameworks, risks to critical underwater infrastructure, and the growing use of technologies that may interfere with navigation systems, they all call for increased vigilance and international cooperation. President, maritime security should continue to be approached through cooperation and respect for international law. Recent milestones, including the entry into force of the BBNJ Agreement and the Beijing Convention on the Judicial Sale of Ships, demonstrate that a multilateral approach to ocean governance is key in addressing shared challenges to our common uses of the seas. At the same time, it is evident that much remains to be done. The scale and complexity of current risks highlight the importance of sustained international engagement. First, we must reaffirm UNCLOS as the constitution of the seas. Preserving and upholding its principles is essential for maintaining global peace and security. The international community can ill afford to relinquish the stability and predictability that this framework guarantees. Otherwise, we risk a return to an era of maritime uncertainty, reversing decades of hard-won progress and cooperation. Second, Malta underlines that maritime security is a matter of direct relevance to the United Nations Security Council in the context of its responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security, particularly where maritime threats affect global and regional stability. The Security Council's attention is therefore essential to address evolving risks and to promote coordinated responses. In conclusion, Madam President, we reaffirm that the safety and security of the maritime domain underpin global trade and economic resilience. Ultimately, maritime security is global security. Without one, we cannot have the other. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Malta for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Turkey.

Thank you, Madam President. Today's topic is of high priority for Turkey. Being positioned at a region that is essential to global trade and energy routes, Turkey, as a maritime country, places utmost importance to maritime security, freedom of navigation, open sea lines of communication, and the rule of law at sea. Preserving freedom of navigation and ensuring the peaceful use of seas and oceans remain primary objectives of Turkey. Turkey actively participates in joint operations against maritime piracy, armed robbery, and terrorism. We see regional cooperation as complementary to multilateral efforts. Turkey is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of Black Sea, Aegean, and the Mediterranean, a region that is essential to global trade and energy routes. The Turkish Straits connect continents and carry a significant portion of global maritime traffic. Turkey takes every step in ensuring safe and secure passage of vessels through these waterways. The regime of passage through the Turkish Straits is regulated by the Montreux Convention, which establishes a political and military balance in the Black Sea between the littoral and non-littoral countries since 1936. Turkey will continue to implement the Convention strictly, transparently and impartially, which has been the case for the last 90 years. We continuously invest in advanced traffic monitoring systems, search and rescue capabilities, and maritime surveillance to ensure maritime safety and protect all ships and seafarers. Turkey believes that ensuring freedom of navigation and maritime security is an international effort requiring constant collaboration among states. However, current state of conflict in our region and the complexities regarding the Strait of Hormuz have reminded the whole world of the critical importance of freedom of navigation. Turkey has been making intensive efforts to reach and maintain a ceasefire and to achieve the escalation through dialogue and diplomacy. The joint initiatives launched by Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia played a significant role in paving the way for the success of negotiations. Unfortunately, the situation has severe repercussions, including naval safety, and maritime security, mostly linked to the blockage in the Strait of Hormuz. Multilateral efforts aimed at preserving stability and ensuring maritime safety in the Strait of Hormuz are crucial. In this regard, diplomatic efforts should be prioritized to address the root causes of the issue. Restoring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law and long-standing practices should be a top priority for whole international community. Hormuz is a natural maritime gateway. It should not be used as a geopolitical tool in dispute resolution. Attempts to impose new restrictions to the legal status of the strait or establish a new order are unrealistic, unacceptable and run contrary to the international law. Turkey remains fully committed to playing its part in this process. At this point, I wish to place on record that Turkey is not a party to the UNCLOS and has consistently expressed that it does not agree with the view that UNCLOS has a universal and a unified character. We also maintain that UNCLOS is not the only legal framework which regulates all activities in the oceans and seas. These concerns and objections have also been raised by a number of other states throughout the years. The convention does not provide sufficient safeguards for particular geographical situations and as a consequence, does not take into consideration conflicting interests and sensitivities stemming from special circumstances. Turkey therefore disassociates herself from the references made to UNCLOS which cannot be construed as binding on all states. Resolving maritime boundary issues in line with international law, the principle of equity, and the relevant jurisprudence is essential and contributes to the freedom of navigation. Likewise, exploitation of hydrocarbon resources must fully respect the legitimate and inherent rights of all relevant peoples and parties. Refraining from unilateral actions and avoiding maximalist positions are key to fostering stability and cooperation. Our vision for our region is to be one of stability and prosperity, where maritime jurisdiction areas are equitably delimited, hydrocarbon resources are shared fairly, freedom of navigation and peaceful use of seas and oceans are ensured. I thank you.

Thank the representative of Turkey for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Seychelles.

Mr. President, I would like to thank the Kingdom of Bahrain for convening this important debate on maritime security. The Republic of Seychelles is a small island state, but also a large ocean nation. We are the guardians of 1.4 million square kilometers of the Western Indian Ocean. We have spearheaded the development of the blue economy and maritime security in our region because we believe that the protection of the maritime heritage of humankind, economic development and security mutually reinforce one another. Seychelles host the leading center for cooperation in multinational maritime operations and we are a strong supporter of the regional maritime security architecture led by the Indian Ocean Commission. We are deeply committed to the rule of law at sea and we urge consistent respect for international law. Freedom of navigation remains a fundamental right of all states and must not be weaponized to the detriment of states that rely heavily on maritime routes. Mr. President, like other small island states, restrictions on freedom of navigation in the Straits of Formosa have significantly affected our economy. Rising fuel prices and supply chain disruptions threaten our economic well-being. Maritime security and freedom of navigation are a shared global responsibility. We urge all parties to work towards a negotiated, sustainable, and implementable solution with the support of the Security Council. However, the Council must also look beyond the current emergency. The UN needs a more strategic approach to maritime security. Our response to maritime security issues cannot be reactive. Evolving threats require continued prioritization by the Council for the security and prosperity of all. Thank you.

thank the representative of Seychelles for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of South Africa.

Thank you, Madam President. South Africa welcomes the convening of this timely high-level open debate under the theme maintenance of international peace and security and on specifically maritime security. We thank the distinguished briefers for sharing their valuable insights. President, we wish to express South Africa's concern with the escalating tensions in the Gulf region. which has negatively impacted the global economy, including in the African continent, where the cost of energy, fertilizers, seeds, and other agricultural inputs has increased considerably, threatening agricultural production and the sustenance of livelihoods. We recall in this regard that the international community finds itself in this situation due to an unprovoked and destructive conflict that began with illegal and unjustified attacks against Iran that has resulted in incalculable harm. South Africa was encouraged by the declaration of a ceasefire and encourages the continuation of mediation efforts to find a comprehensive, peaceful and lasting solution. Madam President, Israel's ongoing illegal attacks against Lebanon amid a ceasefire must be condemned. We should not once again be condoning Israeli impunity. In this context, there must be respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the affected countries in the region by all parties concerned, in accordance with the UN Charter and international law. Furthermore, South Africa reaffirms that maritime security, freedom of navigation, the protection of the maritime environment, and the safety and security of seafarers are fundamental principles of international law as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. These principles are not discretionary, but are binding obligations that must always be respected by all states. While some countries may have only signed and not ratified the Convention on the Law of the Sea, their expressed intention by way of signature and the devastating effects that the closure of the Strait has brought about, should weigh on them to reconsider their positions and strive for a solution for the greater good of humanity. Disruptions to critical waterways threaten not only global trade and energy flow, but also undermine economic stability and the delivery of humanitarian assistance. In this regard, South Africa would like to underscore the following three points. Seafarers must never become victims of geopolitical tensions. Their safety, dignity and welfare must remain paramount. Secondly, freedom of navigation and the right of innocent passage must be fully respected and vessels must be allowed safe and unhindered transit through international waterways. And thirdly, escalatory actions and breaches of international law must cease as they endanger lives, disrupt global supply chains, and damage the marine environment. Madam President, South Africa further emphasizes the importance of strict adherence to established maritime safety frameworks established under the International Maritime Organization. We reiterate our strong support for the organization and the leadership of its Secretary General in promoting coordination, information sharing, and practical responses to maritime risks, including the traffic separation scheme, and the Seafarer Evacuation Corridor. We call on all Member States to support the IMO's mandate and refrain from actions that undermine maritime safety and security. Peaceful seas are the lifeblood of global prosperity. Protecting them is a shared responsibility. Finally, Madam President, South Africa calls on all stakeholders to exercise maximum restraint prioritize de-escalation, and recommit to the peaceful resolution of disputes based on international legal principles, including the UN Charter. I thank you.

I thank the representative of South Africa for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Cyprus.

Thank you, Madam President. Cyprus aligns itself with the statement made by the European Union. We would also want to add some remarks in our national capacity. First of all, we would like to thank Bahrain for its initiative to convene this important debate today. The Strait of Hormuz remains a strategic lifeline, an essential artery for global energy flows and maritime trade. Security of the strait is directly linked to international economic stability. Cyprus reiterates its strong solidarity with our Gulf partners and Jordan, and its commitment to working closely with them in safeguarding this critical waterway. We welcome the extension of ceasefires across the region as crucial steps towards restoring stability. As a maritime nation with a significant commercial fleet and in its current capacity as the presidency of the Council of the European Union, Cyprus has placed maritime security as well as engagement with the wider region of the Gulf among its core priorities. Recent developments only reinforce the urgency of sustained, coordinated action. Restoring safe, orderly, and predictable navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is a shared responsibility. It requires continuous engagement, aligned messaging, and concrete action. The protection of vessels and seafarers, in coordination with the IMO, must remain central to our efforts. We reaffirm the importance of full respect for international law as reflected in UNCLOS, which is binding on all states irrespective of whether they acceded to the convention. In particular, the principles of freedom of navigation and safe passage, as well as relevant Security Council resolutions, notably UN Security Council Resolution 2817. Cyprus supports ongoing EU maritime security efforts, including Operation Atalanta and Operation Aspides. which contribute to enhancing maritime domain awareness and reinforcing the security of vessels and crews. We also welcome the UN Task Force initiative as a practical and forward-looking mechanism. By focusing on verification, de-risking, and facilitating essential maritime flows, including fertilizers, humanitarian aid, and essential supplies, it offers a credible pathway to de-escalation. Cyprus stands ready to support its operationalization in concrete terms. Madam President, before us is an international challenge requiring international solution. Cyprus remains committed to advancing practical cooperation to ensure secure sea lanes, protect global trade, and promote regional and international stability. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Cyprus for the statement. I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Mohamed Fathi Ahmed Idris, Permanent Observer of the African Union to the United Nations.

Thank you very much. Madam President, Excellencies, distinguished members of the Security Council, at the outset, allow me to commend the Kingdom of Bahrain for its able leadership of the Security Council during the month of April 2026. I would also like to express appreciation to the distinguished briefers at the outset of this session for their insightful presentations. This meeting would have been important and significant in all times. However, at this particular time, it is a global wake-up rescue call. In the midst of people dying in war, economies suffocating under critical maritime straits siege, and the world drifting into unchartered, chaotic perils. The African Union welcomes the convening of this highly timely and so important open debate on maritime security under the severely threatened agenda item, maintenance of international peace and security. At a time when maritime security has emerged as a defining challenge for international peace and security and for the global sustainable development, recent developments across key global maritime routes underscore the increasing interconnection between geopolitical tensions, geoeconomics and global stability. Madam President, Excellencies, The geostrategic position of Africa, bordered by key maritime routes linking the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, places the continent and its peoples at the heart of global maritime dynamics. From the Gulf of Guinea to the Horn of Africa, and from the Mediterranean Sea to the Cape of Good Hope, African waters are both vital corridors and areas of vulnerability. Addressing maritime insecurity in these regions, including wartime, piracy, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, as well as different forms of transnational organized crime, is essential, not only for Africa, but not only for Africa's blue economy and food security, but also for global stability and well-being. The critical escalating situation in the Strait of Hormuz illustrates the fragility of maritime security. And I would like to recall the statement of the His Excellency Mahmoud Ali Yousef, the chairperson of the African Union Commission, calling for escalation and denouncing the escalation in the Gulf region and the attacks which the Gulf countries are suffered from. Rising tensions and military actions have distributed navigation in one of the world's most critical transit routes, disproportionately affecting developing economies, particularly in Africa. At the same time, Insecurity in Bab el-Mandeb has compounded these challenges, multiplying transit times and costs. The Suez Canal, another vital artery of global trade, has been impacted by regional instability, highlighting the vulnerability of maritime checkpoints. These developments are not isolated, but part of a broader pattern in which strategic waterways are increasingly exposed to geopolitical competition. For Africa, the implications are acute and dire, particularly for African small island developing states whose economies are highly dependent on maritime connectivity. The African continent relies on maritime transport for over 90% of its imports and exports. Disruptions in shipping routes translate into higher food and fuel prices, jeopardizing food and energy security, compounded by constrained access to fertilizers, increasing economic vulnerability. In this vein, it's worth recognizing and commending the UNSG for his initiative to ensure the passage of fertilizers to developing countries, especially Africans, to avoid catastrophic consequences to agricultural production. Madam President, Excellencies, the African Union reiterates its unwavering commitment to the UN Charter, the principles of international law, and the United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea, enshrining the fundamental principles of freedom of navigation. Maritime spaces must remain global commons. safeguarded from unilateral actions that threaten stability and disrupt international trade, threatening lives and livelihoods of peoples around the world. In this regard, the African Union calls for the de-escalation of tensions in the Gulf region. Dialogue and diplomacy must prevail over force and confrontation. Madam President, to conclude, maritime security requires a comprehensive approach encompassing political, economic, and security dimensions, grounded in the respect of international law, territorial integrity of countries, and the peaceful resolution of disputes in conformity with the instruments that constitutes the global code of conduct, the UN Charter, and the international law, which are the basis of our presence here. The African Union stands ready to work with the United Nations and the international partners to advance a cooperative and inclusive maritime security architecture that ensures safe sea lanes, stable trade, and shared prosperity for the people of Africa and the whole world. I thank you very much, Madame President.

I thank His Excellency, Mr. Idris, for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Malaysia.

Thank you, Madam President. Malaysia congratulates Bahrain on assuming the presidency of the Council for April 2026. We welcome the convening of an open debate on this important and timely topic. We thank the Secretary-General and the briefers for their insights, and Malaysia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Philippines on behalf of ASEAN. The oceans and maritime routes are the lifelines to global trade, connectivity and economic development. For Malaysia, as a maritime nation, the safety and security of these waterways are of paramount importance to both regional stability and global prosperity. Recent developments have shown how disruptions in one maritime region can swiftly reverberate across the international system with far-reaching consequences. Such challenges highlight the reality that no state is immune to their impact. Malaysia underscores that lasting peace, stability and security at sea must be grounded firmly in international law. In this regard, Malaysia views national sovereignty, sovereign rights and territorial integrity as enshrined in the UN Charter and the relevant international law, including UNCLOS. as fundamental to safeguarding regional and global maritime security. No state, whether large or small, should be coerced under any pretext to cede its sovereignty, sovereign rights or territory. The principle of sovereign equality must be upheld at all times. Malaysia further reaffirms the importance of maintaining maritime safety and security as well as freedom of navigation and overflight in accordance with international law, consistent with the UN Charter, and as reflected in UNCLOS and the relevant standards and recommended practices of the IMO. Continued adherence to these international legal instruments and frameworks is essential to addressing evolving threats to international navigation, global trade, and the resilience of supply chains. Malaysia attaches great importance on close and practical cooperation with neighboring states to safeguard maritime security. In this regard, initiatives such as the Malacca Straits Patrol and the Trilateral Cooperative Arrangement exemplify how sustained coordination, real-time information sharing, and intelligence exchange can deliver tangible results, including a significant reduction in maritime security incidents. Madam President, the Security Council bears the primary responsibility under the Charter for the maintenance of international peace and security. In this regard, Malaysia emphasizes the need to further promote and strengthen international cooperation to safeguard maritime safety and security. Any further disruptions to these vital arteries particularly in situations of conflict and instability that carry serious implications for global trade, economic stability and maritime security, must be avoided. Malaysia strongly underscores that there should be no disruptions that could have significant implications for trade, regional stability and the overall security of maritime routes. In conclusion, Malaysia calls on all States to resolve disputes through peaceful means, make avail of diplomacy and dialogue, and to fully respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations in accordance with international law and the UN Charter. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Malaysia for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Ireland.

Thank you, President. Ireland aligns with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union and adds the following in a national capacity. Safe, secure and open maritime navigation is the backbone of the global economy and a cornerstone of international stability. As the world faces an increasingly challenging and contested security environment, Ireland recognises that what happens in one part of the ocean can have a profound effect the world over. The recent closure of the Strait of Hormuz has caused significant negative impacts to the global economy, contributing to fuel price increases and shortages of fuel, critical raw materials and fertilizers. The impacts of this are felt globally, but most particularly by vulnerable communities around the world that are least equipped to deal with the fallout. When maritime waterways are safe, predictable and governed by internationally agreed rules, trade flows and economies prosper. When restricted, the impacts are felt far beyond the sea. It is therefore in our shared interest that the freedoms of the high seas are respected by all. And as affirmed by the EU, this is non-negotiable. President, Ireland stresses that in accordance with customary international law, as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, the doctrine of freedom of navigation on the high seas, and the rule of transit passage through straits used for international navigation cannot be deviated from. These are foundational rules and underpin the global economy. The exercise of these rules ensures that vital global waterways remain open and free and provides predictability and stability for maritime operations and international commerce. We condemn the actions of Iran in preventing lawful transit passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Ireland recalls that UNCLOS establishes a legal order for the seas and oceans, which facilitates international trade and communication, and which promotes the peaceful uses of the seas and oceans. We emphasize the universal and unified character of UNCLOS, and reaffirm that the Convention sets out the legal framework within which all activities in the oceans and seas must be carried out. Ireland calls on all states that have not yet ratified or acceded to UNCLOS to consider doing so now. President, Ireland is an island nation with an exclusive economic zone of over six times our land area. Earlier this year, we published our first national maritime security strategy, which focuses on risks and threats to Ireland's national security and defence in the maritime domain. Support for international law, strengthening regional partnerships, stronger bilateral relations with neighbours, and increasing international cooperation are key actions of this strategy. This reflects Ireland's recognition that the ocean is a global common good and that we must work together to ensure a secure and stable legal order for the seas, which will contribute to the realisation of a just and fair international order. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Ireland for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Sri Lanka.

Madam President. At the outset, let me thank Bahrain for convening this timely high-level open debate. As an island nation located at the crossroads of major shipping routes in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka places priority on maritime security. The stability of our economy is deeply dependent on maritime trade. Disruptions to key maritime corridors have shown how quickly shocks travel through the global economy. As a country heavily reliant on global trade and economic linkages and its migrant workforce, Sri Lanka remains hopeful that navigation routes will soon return to normalcy. For developing nations like Sri Lanka, the implications are immediate and trigger uncertainties among all sectors in the country. Therefore, Maritime security is essential to our existence. The threats are serious and varied. Each weakens the maritime order on which global trade depends. Madam President, route disruptions dry up shipping costs, delay deliveries, and strain the budgets of developing economies already operating on thin margins. For Sri Lanka, the pressures are felt directly. Supplies vital for Sri Lanka's stability and development, including fertilizer, petroleum imports, the raw materials for our industries, and the food that feeds our population, all move through these waterways. International law, including UNCLOS, establishes clear rules in this regard. We express our expectation that the free movement of vessels carrying energy, goods and other essential services will be entrusted, thereby safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of the people across the globe. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Sri Lanka for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Namibia.

Madam President, distinguished members of the Council, Namibia thanks you for convening this critical debate. As a coastal nation on the South Atlantic, Namibia views the safety and protection of waterways as a fundamental, not only to global commerce, but to international peace and security. Maritime routes are the arteries of the global economy. Their safety is a matter of economic survival food security and sovereign dignity, while their disruption, whatever through conflict, coercion or criminal activity, carries consequences far beyond any single country or region. In this regard, Namibia expresses deep concern over the growing politicization and militarization of maritime spaces. Waterways must not be used to advance unilateral political agendas, enforce economic coercion beyond internationally agreed frameworks, or for geopolitical rivalry. The sea must remain a domain governed by law, not by power. The obstruction, militarization, and selective Restriction of maritime routes undermines the principles of sovereign equality, freedom of navigation, and the collective interest of the international community. We want to stress clearly that the seas are a shared global commons, not a theater for coercion. Namibia also remains concerned by enduring and interconnected threats, including piracy, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, trafficking in persons, arms and narcotics, and attacks on maritime infrastructure. For Namibia, these challenges are exacerbated by limited capacity and resources, and when geopolitical tensions spill into maritime domains, further destabilizing already vulnerable regions. Addressing these threats requires genuine multilateralism. We call for strengthened cooperation grounded in mutual respect, non-interference, and adherence to international law. In this context, Namibia reaffirms the centrality of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea as the legal foundation for maritime order and maritime governance, which must be fully respected by all states. As a member of the Zone of Peace and Cooperation of the South Atlantic, ZOPACAS, Namibia continues to play an active and responsible role in safeguarding the stability of the South Atlantic by contributing to maritime domain awareness, coastal and offshore patrol operations, and the prevention of transnational maritime threats. Madam President, Namibia further emphasizes that maritime insecurity anyway is a threat to stability in all its dimensions everywhere. Developing countries continue to face significant capacity constraints in securing their maritime domains. Without meaningful support in surveillance, enforcement and institutional development, these vulnerabilities will persist. It is imperative that the international community strengthens support for coastal states through technology transfer, training and equitable partnerships. Namibia also highlights the critical link between maritime security and sustainable development. The exploitation of maritime resources especially through illegal fishing, not only undermines national economies, but also fuels instability and inequality. Protecting waterways must therefore go hand in hand with protecting livelihoods and ecosystems. Namibia reaffirms that the safety of waterways is a collective responsibility and should not be compromised by narrow interest or unilateral actions. The burden of geopolitical tensions must not be shifted onto those least equipped to bear it. We call on all Member States to act with restraint, resist the normalization of actions that turn maritime commons into arenas of rivalry and ensure that they remain zones of cooperation, not confrontation. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Namibia for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Chile.

Thank you very much, Madam President. Chile would like to thank the Bahrainian presidency for convening this open debate. We also thank the Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, for his briefing, and Ms Arsenio Dominguez and Nick Childs for their valuable contributions. As a maritime country open to international trade, Chile notes with profound concern the impact that threats on critical waterways have on global stability. Disruptions to transit through strategic routes don't only affect regional security They also give rise to systemic consequences affecting supply change, driving up the cost of essential goods and disproportionately affecting developing countries. In this context, the security of waterways is inseparable from global energy, food and economic security. In light of these challenges, it is essential to take practical steps to mitigate the risks in the maritime domain. We believe it's essential to build international cooperation to improve information exchange to build states' capacities, particularly for those states with greater limitations, to protect their waterways and respond to emerging threats. In addition, it's essential to guarantee safe conditions for navigation, including by protecting cruise and merchant ships. In this context, Chile underscores that international law provides a clear, robust framework for maritime governance. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea establishes the norms applicable to navigation, including the right of transit passage through straits used by international navigation. Respect for this norm is essential to ensuring the stability of the international system. The Security Council has a central role to play here. Its action should contribute to preventing escalations, promoting respect for international law and boosting global efforts in maritime safety. For this reason, it is necessary to move towards a more integrated, forward-looking approach to anticipate risks, address the underlying causes of tension and enhance coordination with regional and specialised organisations. Chile further believes that the Council can play a relevant role in promoting permanent solutions, supporting initiatives that contribute to the long-term stability of sea lanes in close cooperation with States and other relevant actors. Chile would like to clearly reiterate its position. As we have previously noted before this Council and in other multilateral fora, freedom of navigation and the right of transit passage must be respected at all times. No State can obstruct these sea lanes, since such action is incompatible with international law. undermines global stability. In this context, we underscore that any attempt to restrict or condition transit through international waterways, particularly at choke points for global trade, is unacceptable and must be addressed urgently by the international community. Finally, in a context of increasing interdependence, the protection of waterways is a collective responsibility. Chile reaffirms its commitment to multilateralism, the respect for international law and the peaceful settlement of disputes. We call on all parties to promote dialogue and cooperation to address the challenges in the maritime domain. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Chile for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Montenegro.

Thank you, Mr. President. Montenegro aligns itself with the EU statement and wishes to make a few remarks in its national capacity. We thank Bahrain for convening today's debate and for putting a much needed spotlight on maritime security, which is of key importance for global peace, sustainable development, and economic resilience. Disruption to maritime trade is not localized, but has far reaching and devastating global consequences. It is a threat to international peace and security, putting the prosperity and safety of all countries at risk and impacting disproportionally the world's poorest and most vulnerable. Strengthening maritime security requires multilateral action based on international law and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. It is of utmost importance to maintain a strong and effective international architecture for maritime security, with particular regards to specialist bodies such as the IMO. International efforts to protect maritime security are required to safeguard open and well-functioning trade routes. Continued discussion on this topic in the Security Council is therefore crucial. Mr. President, we particularly highlight the importance of keeping waterways open and secure in the Strait of Hormuz. Freedom of navigation through the strait is a cornerstone of global security and prosperity that benefits all states. stalling, obstruction, or closure of the strait is unlawful and unacceptable under international law. In that context, and having in mind the broad support, we believe that the full implementation of the resolution 2817 is essential and welcome efforts in this way. We strongly support joint initiative of the UK and France on the Strait of Hormuz and commend their leadership to facilitate engagement and support of allies and partners to safeguard freedom of navigation through the Strait. We align with the joint statement of the leaders and stand ready to contribute to the overall efforts of allies and partners in line with our capacities to ensure unconditional, unrestricted, and immediate reopening of this vital trade waterway, which handles a large share of global oil and food. Mr. President, Montenegro reiterates its full support for international cooperation to address maritime challenges. and stands ready to continue contributing to this effort, at sea, through dialogue, and in partnerships. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Montenegro for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Maldives.

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim. Thank you, President. I thank Bahrain, the President of the Council, for convening this open debate. The Maldives aligns itself with the statements of the OIC and NAM. For the Maldives, the ocean is not an abstract space. It's our lifeline, our security, and our economy. The daily well-being of our people depends on safe, secure, and open sea lanes. When maritime routes are threatened by conflict, unlawful interference, or rising instability, the consequences reach our islands immediately. The Maldives is therefore extremely concerned by the worsening state of maritime security. Attacks on commercial vessels, interference with navigation, and heightened tensions in critical waterways are disrupting global supply chains with growing frequency. These shocks do not remain at sea. they move quickly into fuel prices, cost of food, freight delays, and economic uncertainty, especially for the vulnerable states. What begins as instability in the distant waterway is soon felt in the daily lives of our people. This is why developments in the Strait of Hormuz are of particular concern. The Maldives calls for the restoration and preservation of safe, secure, and unimpeded navigation through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law. This waterway is vital to global trade and energy flows and regional connectivity. Any prolonged disruption there carries serious consequences for international peace and security. In this regard, the Maldives recognizes the legitimate concerns of Gulf states, particularly Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, for whom the safe and uninterrupted passage of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains closely linked to economic stability, energy security, and wider regional connectivity. The three principles must therefore remain paramount. First, respect for international law. The United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea provides the legal foundation for the peaceful use of ocean and for the rights and freedom of navigation upon which all states depend. Second, enhance international cooperation. Maritime threats are transnational by character, and they demand coordinated responses. stronger information sharing and sustained capacity building, especially for developing countries with limited means and vast marine responsibilities. Third, the protection of maritime routes is a shared responsibility. The safety and security of waterways sustain global trade, connectivity and economic stability. Safeguarding them is therefore a shared responsibility of all states. For small island developing states, our responsibilities at sea often exceed the resources available to us. The Maldives continues to strengthen its national maritime capabilities, including surveillance and monitoring across our EEZ. Yet, the scale of today's challenge makes it clear that national efforts alone will not be enough. Partnerships, practical support, and international solidarity remains essential. The ocean connects us all, all our nations. The safety and security of oceans are inseparable from our shared future. We must therefore preserve the integrity of our waterways, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that the maritime domain remains a space for peace, stability, and cooperation, for it is our shared responsibility. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Maldives for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Dominican Republic.

President, the Dominican Republic thanks the Kingdom of Bahrain for convening this timely and important debate on the safety and protection of waterways in the maritime domain. As a small island developing state lying in the heart of the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic grants the highest importance to the safety, stability and openness of international waterways. Our economic resilience, food security and energy supply depend directly on the safe and uninterrupted flow of maritime trade. President, the current scenario exposes us to systemic risks at the main maritime choke points, threats to the safety of navigation, including piracy, illicit trafficking, attacks on merchant ships, and disruptions straits and strategic routes, as well as the use of force or the adoption of coercive measures against civilian vessels in international transit, all represent an unacceptable escalation that jeopardize international peace and security. For countries such as ours, temporary interruptions to waterways can have disproportionate economic and humanitarian consequences, affecting supply chains, driving up costs, and limiting access to essential goods. In this regard, we clearly underscore and reaffirm that the protection of navigation must be firmly grounded in international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, as the comprehensive legal framework that regulates the rights and obligations of states at sea. Indeed, respect for the principles of the law of the sea, such as freedom of navigation the right of transit passage through straits and innocent passage are essential to guarantee predictability, stability and legal certainty at sea. We further underline the importance and relevance of specific legal regimes applicable to certain international waterways that guarantee their neutrality in accordance with international law. Mr. President, addressing developments in the circumstances surrounding maritime security demands stronger international cooperation because no state can address these challenges alone. In this context, it's essential to promote regional cooperation, including the exchange of information and joint initiatives, particularly in regions such as the Caribbean. In addition, we must strengthen multilateral coordination, including within the framework of the UN, to ensure effective responses to emerging risks. Likewise, it is essential to take steps in environmental prevention to guarantee the protection of the marine environment as the foundation for sustainable development. Mr. President, the Security Council plays a key role in maintaining international peace and security, including through protecting maritime safety and freedom of the sea. In this context, we call for further efforts to promote respect for international law and cooperation to address these threats. The Dominican Republic reiterates its commitment to work with the international community to guarantee safe, open waterways that are protected for us all. Thank you very much.

I thank the representative of Dominican Republic for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Iraq.

in the name

of God the gracious the merciful Mr President ladies and gentlemen and esteemed members of the Security Council at the outset would like to express our sincere congratulations to the Kingdom of Bahrain on its presidency of the council for this month and we wish you continued success in your endeavors this Council meets today to discuss a topic that is in the heart of the stability of international development and regional security, which is maritime security and the freedom of navigation. This is not simply an item on the agenda for our country. Rather, it is an issue that directly impacts our regional security and our vital interests. Mr. President, Iraq renews its absolute commitment to guaranteeing the freedom of navigation through international waterways, especially in the area of the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, in accordance with the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Any threat to these waterways is a direct threat to the stability -- the economic stability of Iraq, as it is the primary waterway and gateway to our exports and foreign trade. We note that dealing with the tensions in the region requires a balanced and comprehensive vision. Simply issuing statements of condemnation against one party and not the other, or which ignore the complex security, historic and security items, would only lead to further polarization. Moreover, the maritime stability cannot be achieved by militarizing waterways. Rather, it comes by dealing with the root causes of political crises. Iraq, from this rostrum, calls for activating channels of dialogue between the coastal areas of the Gulf and building a joint system that guarantees the interest of all and prevents any intervention that would destabilize the region. Iraq expresses its concern that maritime tensions may lead to a disruption in the international supply chains, which would be negatively reflected on the prices of food and fuel. These are burdens that are primarily borne by developing countries and by people aspiring for stability. Mr. President, we understand that we are here to discuss the difference between the right to safe passage and the right to innocent passage. And we believe that arriving at a common format on this comes through a comprehensive dialogue. Therefore, Iraq rejects any illegal measures that would obstruct the flow of trade. In closing, Iraq confirms that the stability of the Straits of Hormuz is not an option. Rather, it is an existential requirement, and we extend a hand of cooperation, and we are ready to exert every effort to de-escalate and to protect the lives of sailors. And I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Iraq for his statements, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kuwait.

In the

name of God, the gracious, the merciful, at the outset, Mr. President, I would like to express the congratulations of the State of Kuwait to the sisterly Kingdom of Bahrain on its successful presidency of the Security Council for this current month. We also express our appreciation to His Excellency Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani. We thank him for chairing this meeting and To you, Mr. President, and the members of your delegation, every single one, we express to you our thanks for your kind cooperation over this past month. And allow me, and I beg the pardon of all the member states, to tell you that I will speak at length today. I have the honor to deliver the statement of the State of Kuwait at this high-level session, which is being held at a critical moment where the issue of maritime navigation security has gone beyond its technical or commercial dimensions to become a direct test of the international community's ability to uphold international law and preserve international peace and security. and prevent transforming vital waterways into instruments of political blackmail or arenas of open conflict. The seas have never once been a lawless void, nor are international straits the exclusive property of those who happen to border them geographically. Rather, they are common lifelines for trade, energy, food, and medicine. They are passageways through which the interest of all states pass, be they coastal or landlocked, alike, large or small. From this standpoint, the state of Kuwait affirms that maritime navigation security is not a regional interest limited to certain states. Rather, it is a collective international interest. Any disruption constitutes a direct disruption to the stability of the global economy and the security of peoples and the right to development and a dignified life. Mr. President, the Strait of Hormuz is not merely a waterway within the geography of the Gulf. Rather, it is one of the most vital arteries of the global economy. Through it pass essential supplies of oil, gas, food commodities, and fertilizers. And it is linked to supply chains extending from the Arabian Gulf to Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Therefore, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz by the Islamic Republic of Iran, the obstruction of navigation there, and subjecting transit through it to unlawful conditions cannot be regarded as a limited regional crisis. Rather, it is a direct threat to international peace and security. It is an assault on the right of the entire world to the freedom of navigation and legitimate trade. In this context, the State of Kuwait categorically rejects any Iranian measures or threats aimed at closing the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting international navigation through it, imposing unlawful restrictions or fees on transiting vessels, threatening the safety of tankers and commercial ships, or using mines, drones, missiles, and armed boats as tools of pressure and coercion. Turning an international strait into a political or military bargaining chip is unacceptable, as it undermines the very foundation upon which the rules governing passage through international straits are based. It erodes confidence in the global maritime order as a whole. Mr. President, international law, with the United Nations Charter and the rules of the laws of the sea at the forefront. did not leave international waterways hostage to unilateral will. Rather, it established clear principles that are based on the freedom of navigation, the non-obstruction of passage, and the prohibition of the use or threat of use of force against civilian and commercial vessels. Consequently, any unlawful closure of the Strait of Hormuz does not just constitute a violation of the rights of the Gulf states alone. Rather, it is an assault on the right of every state in the world to safe access to energy, goods, and markets. It infringes on the right of every civilian seafarer to perform his or her work without becoming a hostage to a conflict in which they have no part. The Iranian side's closure of the Strait of Hormuz is not only a violation of international law. Rather, it is also a direct challenge to the authority of the Security Council. It is a test of the Council's credibility its ability to fulfill its responsibilities in the maintenance of international peace and security. This requires us to reach a firm response that is commensurate with the magnitude of the threat. The State of Kuwait reaffirms that the principle of the freedom of navigation, especially the right of transit passage to international straits, as enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of the year 1982, constitutes a binding legal obligation that cannot be breached or subjected to unilateral discretion. Kuwait also recalls Security Council Resolution 552 of the year 1984. That resolution emphasizes the need to respect the freedom of navigation in international waters and sea lanes. We also recall Resolution 2817. which received historic support through the sponsorship of 136 states and which unequivocally condemned threats and actions aimed at obstructing international navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The State of Kuwait believes that the value of international resolutions is not measured merely in their adoption, rather in their implementation. Therefore, any lax enforcement of these Council's resolutions would send a dangerous message, namely that threats to navigation can go unpunished and that the security of international trade can be left vulnerable to adventurers and blackmail. Therefore, this Council is called upon to move from condemnation to action, from expressions of concern to concrete measures that ensure opening the waterways, the protection of vessels, the deterrence of attacks, and holding accountable those who threaten international navigation. We stand before a multidimensional danger, a security danger that's manifested in attacks on ships, facilities, and ports, an economic danger manifested in disruptions to energy markets, the rising cost of shipping and insurance, and the slowdown of supply chains. which is already happening and is expected to continue under the current circumstances. We also face a humanitarian danger where thousands of sailors remain stranded amid an unsafe environment. We're also facing an environmental danger manifest in the possibility of a pollution disaster in one of the most sensitive marine basins where communities there depend heavily on water desalination and coastal resources. Mr. President, we can't speak of the Strait of Hormuz in terms of numbers alone, despite the severity of these numbers. Behind every stranded vessel is a human crew, and behind every halted tanker are markets, factories, power plants, hospitals, and homes. The presence of approximately 20,000 civilian seafarers stranded in the Gulf and around the Strait of Hormuz is not simply a peripheral detail in the navigational crisis. Rather, it is an alarm bell, a moral and humanitarian alarm bell that the Security Council must heed. These seafarers are not parties to any conflict. They must not be left at sea. in fear, facing shortages of supplies, psychological exhaustion, and security risks. Mr. President, the State of Kuwait, as its sister states in the Gulf Cooperation Council, the GCC, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, has experienced firsthand the repercussions of this escalation on its security, sovereignty, and vital facilities. Iran's attacks and those carried out by its proxies have reached the GCC states, including the state of Kuwait. They struck civilian and vital facilities, infrastructure, Kuwait International Airport, and oil facilities, and military installations, resulting in injuries among their personnel. Some attacks targeted residential areas, causing injuries to civilians and the death of others. These attacks are not isolated incidents. They are part of a dangerous pattern that seeks to expand the scope of the threat from land to sea, from civilian facilities to international waterways, and from the security of states to the security of the global economy. My country affirms that the security of the GCC states is indivisible. Any attack on the sovereignty of any GCC member state or its vital facilities or its maritime routes constitutes an attack on the security of the region as a whole. At the same time, the state of Kuwait stresses that its position, which is consistent with the unified Gulf position, is not based on a desire for escalation or confrontation. Rather, it is based on a firm commitment to international law, respect for state sovereignty, good neighborliness, and the rejection of interference in internal affairs as well as the need to seek dialogue and diplomacy whenever there is a genuine will and practical commitment to do so are present. Mr. President, protecting the Strait of Hormuz cannot be separated from protecting other maritime corridors. What occurs in one waterway reverberates across the others, and what begins as a threat to navigation in one region will end with higher costs borne by the entire world. Recent years have demonstrated that the security of waterways is interconnected and that the disruption of one places pressure on the alternatives. It raises transportation causes, it delays the delivery of food, medicine, and energy, it fuels inflation, and it compounds the suffering of the most vulnerable states that lack sufficient reserves or quick alternatives. Accordingly, the State of Kuwait believes that maritime navigation security must not remain hostage to temporary reactions after each crisis. Rather, maritime security must be transformed into a sustainable protection system, preventive system that is based on early warning, maritime intelligence coordination, on capacity building, on the protection of the infrastructure of ports and energy, on cooperation with the shipping and insurance sectors, and on a rapid response to potential environmental disasters. Moreover, states that are bordering these corridors bear a special responsibility, but the greatest responsibility lies upon the international community and this Security Council to safeguard a system that would serve everyone. In closing, Mr. President, protecting the Strait of Hormuz today means protecting a broader principle, namely that law is stronger than force and that the sea is a way to connect and not a way to make threats. that the security of peoples must not be held hostage to political or military adventurism. The state of Kuwait from this rostrum calls for firm, fair, and coordinated international action that restores security to navigation, safety to seafarers, stability to the region, and authority and respect to international law, one that compels Iran to cease its blatant violations of all international laws, one that ensures the strict application of relevant Security Council resolutions with no leniency. I thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Kuwait for his statements.

Give the floor to the representative of Bangladesh.

Thank you, Mr. President. At the outset, Bangladesh thanks the Kingdom of Bahrain for convening this important high-level open debate. Mr. President, Bangladesh expresses solidarity with all countries affected by disruptions in critical waterways. The safety and protection of international waterways is of vital importance to us. It is directly linked to international peace and security, global trade, food and energy security, and development. For countries like Bangladesh, this issue is related to the livelihood of our people. Situated in the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh depends heavily on maritime routes for connectivity with the global economy. Therefore, any disruption in critical waterways creates immediate consequences for us. Mr. President, Bangladesh would like to highlight some key points. First, Bangladesh emphasizes the importance of freedom of navigation and unimpeded, lawful maritime passage in accordance with international law, especially UNCLOS, which is the cornerstone of ocean governance. Second, international waterways must not be used as instruments of coercion, pressure, and political leverage. In this regard, Bangladesh urges all concerned parties to exercise restraint and resolve disputes through dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful settlement consistent with the UN Charter. Third, international maritime cooperation must be strengthened through the IMO, regional mechanisms, and the UN system. Information sharing, early warning and maritime domain awareness is important for ensuring security of commercial vessels and crews. Finally, the safety, dignity, rights and timely evacuation of seafarers in crisis situations must be ensured. Mr. President, Bangladesh believes that the oceans must remain zones of peace, cooperation and shared prosperity. The Security Council should reinforce global efforts to protect these critical waterways, uphold international law, support de-escalation and mediation. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Bangladesh for the statement. The representative of Greece has asked for the floor to make a further statement. I give them the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President. Greece would like to make the following point regarding the statement made earlier by the representative of Turkey. The Montreux Convention of 1936 is the only international legal document regulating navigation through the Straits of Dardanelles, the Sea of Marmara, and the Bosporus, and guaranteeing the freedom of navigation through them. Thus, respect of the terminology of the Montreux Convention aims at preserving and confirming this freedom enshrined therein. The use of the term Turkish Straits is not consistent with the Montreux Convention of 1936 regarding the regime of the Straits. The terminology in accordance with the Montreaux Convention is the straits, and namely, straits of Dardanelles, the Sea of Marmara, and the Bosporus.

I thank you. I thank the representative of Greece for the statement. The representative of Japan has asked for the floor to make a further statement. I give them the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President. As China has made unfounded statements, we have no choice but to refute them on the basis of well-known facts. With regard to the East China Sea, despite agreements between Japan and China, China's continued unilateral exploitation of resources and marine research are infringing upon Japan's rights. Furthermore, since 2008, China continues to dispatch government vessels into Japanese territorial waters. These unilateral attempts to change the status quo and escalation of tensions are the true nature of what China calls stability in the East China Sea. With regard to the South China Sea, I'd like to point out that arbitral tribunal's award in 2016 found that rapid land reclamation of maritime features which China carried out while arbitration proceedings were underway. from 2013 violated obligation to settle disputes by peaceful means under Article 279 of UNCLOS. However, militarization of the disputed features by China in the South China Sea continued. The award is final and legally binding on the parties to the dispute. The claim made by China that it will not accept the award is also against the principle of peaceful settlement of disputes. consistent with international law as reflected in UNCLOS. China has continuously increased its defense budget at a high level with a lack of transparency, 27-fold over the past 30 years. Also, China has unilaterally expanded its arsenal, including ballistic missiles. And furthermore, it exports arms at a rate more than 400 times that of Japan. We are also concerned about the rapid and significant increase of nuclear arsenals, in a non-transparent manner. Japan's fundamental defense policy is the posture of passive defense strategy, which is exclusively defense-oriented. Therefore, China is in no position to criticize Japan for militarism. With remorse for its past, Japan has firmly upheld the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and championed the rule of law. Japan accepts peaceful settlement based on international law under the statute of International Court of Justice and UNCLOS, and opposes to unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion. Japan will continue its path as a peace-loving nation, a path it has followed since the end of World War II. Japan's consistent contribution to international peace and stability are widely recognized, and Japan will continue such contributions as a responsible member of the international community. Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are extremely important for the stability of the entire international community. Japan expects that issues concerning Taiwan will be resolved peacefully through dialogue. With regard to China's unfounded criticism, Japan's position is already stated in our PR letter to the SG last year, thus I will not repeat it. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Japan for the statement. The representative of China has asked for the floor to make a further statement. I give them the floor.

Thank you, President. Just then, the representative of Japan leveled baseless accusations against China. China reject those accusations. The representative of Japan has resorted to sophistry in attempt to burnish its long discredited image as a so-called peace-loving nation. When it comes to Japan, we cannot take its words at face value. We must judge it by its actions. The recent spate of dangerous moves by Japan in the military and security domains defy its self-proclaimed dedication to peace and adherence to an exclusively defense-oriented policy. Japan's accelerated re-militarization is a fact and a reality, with an actual roadmap and steps are taken. Japan must do serious soul-searching. Will it continue to allow the specter of militarism to spread, distort, historical facts and whitewash its crime of aggression, or will it sincerely reflect on its crime, adopt a correct view of history and truly earn the trust of Asian neighbors and the international community? Amnesia of history means betrayal, and denial of responsibility spells relapse. Such a country is simply not qualified to seek permanent membership of the UN Security Council. China calls on the international community to remain highly vigilant against Japan's historical revisionism tactics, jointly curb Japan's new militarist tendencies, and work together to safeguard regional and global peace and stability. In closing, I'd like to advise Japan that the country should adhere to the one-China policy principle, one-China policy, and do not play and refrain from playing fire on the question of Taiwan. Thank you, President.

I thank the representative of China for the statement. The representative of Japan has asked for the floor to make a further statement. I give them the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President. While we refrain from engaging in discussions unrelated to the issue of maritime security, the point that I previously stated are objective facts. Japan has consistently maintained its past as peace-loving nation since the end of World War II, upholding freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. In addition, through UN peacekeeping operations, humanitarian assistance, as well as development cooperation and capacity building support, We have contributed to the peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and the international community. Therefore, the allegations are entirely unfounded. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the representative of Japan for the statement. The representative of China has asked for the floor to make a further statement. I give them the floor for the last time.

Thank you, President. In his previous statement, the representative of Japan claimed the country is committed to safeguarding navigation safety and stressed the importance of maintaining maritime legal order. However, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi recently indicated in her open remarks that Japan needs to learn the lesson from the situation of Russia-Ukraine conflict in the Middle East, adopt new forms of warfare, and prepare for protracted war through, inter alia, strengthening its maritime defense capabilities. Many people with insight suggest that the recent rhetoric of certain Japanese political figures sounds rather like war mobilization and war propaganda. Decades ago, Japan launched wars of aggression against other countries. This same country is now hyping up the so-called situation of tensions. I wonder whether the Japanese representative wishes to clarify whether their country is poised to repeat its past crimes. The Chinese people, nations that suffered from Japanese aggression in the past, as well as all peace-loving people who stand for justice all over the world, will never allow it. Thank you, President.

I thank the representative of China for the statement. The representative of Japan has asked for the floor to make a further statement. I give them the floor for the last time.

Thank you, Mr. President. It is unproductive to make such unsubstantiated discussion unrelated to maritime security agenda, which is a very important agenda. Thus, I will not repeat our position. But I would like to make it clear that we cannot accept the unfounded statement made by Chinese delegation. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Japan for the statement. There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. The meeting is adjourned.