STATEMENT BY
H.E. MR. WAN AZNAINIZAM YUSRI WAN ABDUL RASHID
REPRESENTATIVE OF MALAYSIA
ON BEHALF OF
THE ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHEAST ASIAN NATIONS (ASEAN)
THEMATIC CLUSTER DISCUSSION ON
cluster 7 (DISARMAMENT MACHINERY)
first committee
79th session of the united nations general assembly
28 october 2024
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Madam Chair,
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). ASEAN aligns itself with the statement delivered by Indonesia on behalf of NAM.
- In view of heightened tensions and deepening mistrust in the international arena, the importance of multilateralism in the field of disarmament and non-proliferation cannot be overstated. ASEAN acknowledges the contributions of the UN disarmament machinery, which has produced important treaties, instruments and processes over the years. At the same time, it is imperative that we ensure the relevance, credibility and adaptability of this machinery. Challenging times should spur us to make concrete progress on disarmament, through continued dialogue and engagement in good faith. This of course applies to the First Committee, which ASEAN recognises as the most inclusive platform for discussions on disarmament and international security.
- ASEAN reiterates its concern over the declining commitment and cooperation in global disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control mechanisms. We call on countries, especially the Nuclear-Weapon States, to maintain and fully implement their obligations and commitments under these mechanisms, including in the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). ASEAN calls on the NWS to fulfil their obligations in advancing nuclear disarmament in accordance with Article VI of the NPT, and to recognise the need to completely eliminate nuclear weapons, which remains the only way to guarantee that nuclear weapons are never used again under any circumstances. Strong political will among NPT States Parties is essential in upholding the credibility and integrity of the Treaty, and in achieving a meaningful outcome document by consensus at the 2026 Review Conference.
- The Conference on Disarmament has an important role in pursuing substantive negotiations in key areas of disarmament. ASEAN is concerned by the deadlock on the programme of work in the Conference on Disarmament, which has persisted for over two decades. ASEAN therefore calls upon the Conference on Disarmament to further intensify consultations and to make progress by adopting and implementing a balanced and comprehensive programme of work. At the same time, ASEAN is pleased to note the decisions on the work of the Conference on Disarmament on the establishment of five subsidiary bodies for the 2024 session, and the adoption of their reports.
5.ASEAN also believes that the UN Disarmament Commission (UNDC), with its universal membership, retains a unique role in building trust and confidence among Member States on various issues in the disarmament sphere. In the current three-year cycle of the UNDC, ASEAN looks forward to further discussions on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, as well as emerging technologies in the context of international security.
Madam Chair,
6.In the Asia-Pacific region, the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) is a vital platform for dialogue and cooperation on political and security issues of common concern. ASEAN is committed to continued efforts under the ARF Inter-Sessional Meeting on Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (ARF ISM on NPD), co-chaired by Thailand, Sri Lanka and the United States for 2022-2024, and by the Philippines, Australia and New Zealand for 2025-2027.
7. ASEAN emphasises that the disarmament machinery should keep pace with the rapidly evolving security landscape and advancements in science and technology, including developments in cyberspace and outer space. We should strive to prevent duplicative processes, optimise resources, and pursue inclusive avenues for deliberations among Member States.
- ASEAN also reaffirms its support for the UN Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Asia and the Pacific (UNRCPD). More broadly, ASEAN acknowledges the value of a multi-stakeholder approach in our work. ASEAN promotes a culture of peace and dialogue, including through the Youth, Peace and Security and Women, Peace, and Security agendas. We welcome sustained engagement with civil society, the private sector and academia, whose perspectives may enrich and complement States’ discussions. In this regard, we appreciate the role of think-tanks and research bodies, such as the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR).
9.In closing, may I assure you of ASEAN’s commitment to constructive collaboration with all Member States and stakeholders in advancing international peace and security, including through the present session of the First Committee.
Thank you.