Chair,

In addition to the statement delivered by the European Union, I would like to make the following remarks in my national capacity.

Chair, Excellencies, and distinguished delegates,

In order to enhance the safety, security, stability and sustainability of Outer Space, it is important to develop norms, rules and principles of responsible behaviours. This approach offers a constructive path forward to mitigate risks and to increase the predictability of space activities.

An example of such efforts is the commitment not to conduct destructive direct-ascent anti-satellite missile tests (DA-ASAT). It exemplifies how non-legally binding agreements make an important contribution in reducing destabilising actions which generate long-lived debris, erode confidence and raise threat perceptions. 

The success of such commitments relies on effective verification. In that regard, space situational awareness (SSA) plays a key role in monitoring responsible behaviours in Outer Space. This technology can detect sudden orbital deviations and helps to distinguish between counterspace actions and incidents. In doing so, SSA excels in identifying visible, physical activities like debris-generating direct-ascent anti-satellite missile tests or rendezvous and proximity operations. By increasing international SSA-cooperation and promoting the exchange of information, we can contribute to verifying current and future international agreements on responsible behaviours in Outer Space. 

Chair, 

While it is essential to develop new agreements, it is equally important to reaffirm that International Law already applies to Outer Space. This includes the five United Nations Treaties on Outer Space, the Charter of the United Nations, and International Humanitarian Law (IHL).

In this regard, special attention must be given to Article IV of the Outer Space Treaty. We welcome last year’s adoption by the UN General Assembly of the resolution on weapons of mass destruction in Outer Space. This resolution not only reaffirms the obligation not to place in orbit around the Earth any objects carrying nuclear weapons or any other kinds of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) but also urges Member States not to develop such weapons. The placement of nuclear weapons in Outer Space would constitute a severe breach of International Law and would have massive destabilising effects worldwide. 

Chair,

In conclusion, the OEWG PAROS process presents a unique opportunity to strengthen the normative framework regarding Outer Space. We were not particularly pleased by the difficult start, but have full trust in the Chair and him taking the substantive work forward towards fulfilling the mandate of the Group.

Thank you.