(1st plenary meeting) Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons — Ninth Biennial Meeting of States

Good morning.
Excellency, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen.
It is my pleasure and privilege to declare open the ninth biannual meeting of states to consider the implementation of the program of action to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects.
I extend a warm welcome to all present here today this morning.
We shall now take up agenda item two of the provisional agenda of the meeting, namely election of the chair.
I understand that there is general agreement amongst delegations to elect His Excellency, Mr.
James Martin Larsen, permanent representative of Australia to the United Nations as chair of the meeting.
May I take it that it is the wish of delegates to the meeting to elect His Excellency Ambassador James Martin Larsen of Australia by acclamation as chair of the ninth Bnal Meeting of States to consider the implementation of the program of action to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects.
No, I see the representative of Iran wishing to take the floor.
I give the floor to the delegates of Iran, please.
Thank you, Madam Under Secretary-General and High Representative for disarmament affairs for giving me the floor.
Iran does not support Australia putting itself forward for the chairmanship of the ninth Bionnial Ming of states to consider the implementation of the program of action to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and right defense in all its aspects.
Australia's resort to politicization, double standards and selective approaches in multilateral forums makes clear that it is unfit for such a role.
Entrusting the chairmanship of this meeting to a delegation that has failed to uphold the principles of neutrality, impartiality, and professionalism damages the credibility and integrity of the process.
We request that the records of the meeting reflect that the Islamic Republic of beyond disassociates itself from the consensus on the decision to appoint Australia to this leadership role.
I thank you, Madam Under Secretary.
I thank the distinguished delegates of Iran.
I take note of that position.
May I take it that it is the wish of delegates to the meeting to elect His Excellency Ambassador James Martin Larsen of Australia as chair of the Ninth Binnal Meeting of States to consider the implementation of the program of action to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects.
It is so decided.
I wish to extend my warmest congratulations to Ambassador Larson on his election to this important post.
Let me wish him success in this very important endeavor and assure him of the support and full cooperation of the Secretariat at my office and, of course, myself.
I now invite His Excellency Ambassador Larsen to take over the proceedings of the ninth Bnual meeting.
Please to the podium.
Hi representative, dear colleagues.
First, let me say how delighted I am to have been asked to serve as chair of the ninth biennial meeting of the Small Arms and Life Weapons Implementation Review.
We know we meet at a critical juncture when both geopolitics and technological developments are straining both the program of action and the international tracing instrument in the most challenging ways possible.
Thank you to all delegations for the confidence you have entrusted in me to help steer us to a successful conclusion over the next couple of days.
Let me take a moment to thank our colleagues in UNODA and DGACM for their hard work in the lead up to this meeting.
As always, I think we should acknowledge the immense efforts of the Secretariat in helping us do our work.
The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons continues to fuel armed conflict, sustain criminal networks, and inflict devastating human suffering across regions.
It undermines development, erodes state authority, and prolongs instability.
The urgency of our work is self evident.
Much remains to be done to address these many challenges.
I know that we are all committed to doing everything possible in the coming days to build on the work that has been done to date and to ensure we make progress.
I hope we can be creative in identifying ways to address contentious issues and can build bridges which support a constructive approach across all delegations.
The collaboration and goodwill evident throughout the informal consultations leading to today's meeting convinced me that we have a genuine opportunity to help reduce the human suffering needlessly caused by this evil trade.
I'm delighted that our meeting coincides with the first ever gathering of the open ended technical expert group under the able leadership of my friend and colleague Ambassador Michael Kanu.
The OETG is in good hands indeed.
We have an opportunity this week to do more than merely repeat longstanding positions.
This is our collective opportunity to come together and advance this important initiative, taking a special account of the very real challenges posed by dramatically changing technological capabilities.
If we fail this moment, the costs will be real and the adverse impacts felt across many of our communities.
I look forward very much to working with you all in the coming days and thank you.
I now have the honor to invite delegations to view a pre recorded address by the Secretary-General of the United Nations, His Excellency, António Guterres.
I now invite the technology people to do that.
Excellencies.
For 25 years, the program of action on small arms and light weapons has been a cornerstone of global disarmament and peace efforts.
Our world has fundamentally changed over the last quarter century.
Armed conflicts are multiplying, divisions are deepening, military spending is skyrocketing.
New threats are rapidly emerging, including three D printed arms and then traceable ghost guns circulating across the black market.
Diversion, your focus this year remains the primary method of acquiring weapons that fuel terrorism, crime, and gender based violence while killing peacekeepers and blocking humanitarian access.
Interpol tells us that there are more than 2 million records of lost, stolen, or trafficked firearms in circulation today.
Using the program of action as a base, countries must act together to end this court by sharing intelligence, technical support, and capacity building, by developing new solutions to address the threat of emerging technologies and diversion, and by curbing illicit weapons flows and closing regulatory loopholes.
We must ensure the program of action is fit for today's challenges.
I urge you to adopt an Outcome document that keeps communities free of illicit small arms and weapons.
Together, let's build safer societies and a more secure world.
I thank the Secretary-General for those prerecorded remarks.
I now have the honor of inviting the Under Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarnment affairs, miss Izumi Nakamitsu to make a statement, miss Nakasui.
Thank you very much, Mr.
Chair.
Excellency, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the ninth B annual meeting of States on the program of action on Small arms and light weapons and the International Tracing Instrument.
Later this week, the open ended Technical Expert Group will convene for the first time as mandated by the fourth Review Conference in 2024.
25 years ago, you adopted the program of action out of grave concern for the humanitarian, social and economic costs of illicit small arms and light weapons and the threat they pose to peace, security, and sustainable development.
Since we last met in 2024, those costs have only grown.
Violence has intensified.
Humanitarian needs continue to mount while financing for development declines.
As the Secretary-General observed in his report, the security we need, skyrocketing global military expenditure stands in direct tension with our development goals.
In response to insecurity, too many states are only increasing military defense rather than investing in dialogue and peace.
This shift has coincided with an erosion of the norms and laws meant to limit the harm done by armed conflict.
Illicit small arms like weapons remain a primary driver of that harm.
They are involved in nearly half of all homicides and enable crime, displacement, terrorism, and political violence.
The burden falls hardest on the global South, where they obstruct humanitarian access, endanger UN personnel, and undermine sustainable peace and development.
These impacts and our responses to them are uneven.
These weapons are used to perpetrate sexual and gender based violence with women and girls facing highest risks, while remaining underrepresented in arms control decisions.
Young people are both victims and recruits for armed groups, and when they meet prevention efforts, they often do so without adequate support.
Technological change compounds the challenge.
Advances in manufacturing and design are outpacing regulatory responses, making illicit production easier and tracing harder.
Yet the same wave of innovation offers tools to strengthen the International tracing instrument ITI, improve marketing, and help prevent diversion.
Excellencies, the Pact for the future reaffirms our commitment to combat illicit arms transfers and uphold disarmament obligations in support of SDG 16 and its target to reduce illicit arms flows.
For 25 years, the program of action and the ITI have helped states strengthen control over the manufacture, transfer, and export of small arms.
I thank those member states that submitted their 2026 national reports, and I would like to underline the importance of regular reporting by all states.
This meeting is our opportunity to take stock and to ensure these instruments remain fit for purpose.
To meet today's threats, we must move from commitment to concrete action.
To make the program of action more effective, we must act decisively, including by mandating end to end digital traceability with tamper resistant marks and real time records for all newly manufactured weapons and as appropriate ammunition.
Cutting off diversion at source through pre transfer risk assessments that can prevent exports where a substantial risk is identified.
Strengthening international efforts to address emerging technologies, including three D printed weapons and modular firearms in accordance with national legal frameworks.
Funding prevention by directing a percentage of small arms and light weapons assistance to community based initiatives with direct support for women's and youth led efforts and strengthening implementation through voluntary measures that link reporting to impact and support targeted assistance.
Reducing human suffering is our mandate.
The POA and ITI remain areas where consensus has prevailed amid wider disarmament gridlocks.
Let us continue that tradition at BMS nine and chart a practical forward looking path against licit small arms like weapons.
This is our moment to deliver on our commitments for a safer world.
I urge you to make full use of this.
I thank you very much for your attention.
I thank High Representative Nakamtsu for those remarks.
I now move to agenda item four, which is adoption of the gender and other organizational matters.
Let me make just a personal comment, if I may, just so colleagues are aware, I'm actually visually impaired at the moment.
I just have an issue which means I can't see effectively.
If I'm looking at you and I'm not identifying you, that is why.
Just bear with me if you'd be so kind.
I'm otherwise perfectly fine, but it's just an issue that you might find rather peculiar on occasions.
Um, as I said, we'll now move to take up item four, adoption of the agenda and other organizational matters.
I'm hoping that all of you have in front of you the provisional agenda as contained in document A 192 BMS 2026 L one, the provisional Program of work as contained in document Co 192 BMS 2026 L two, and a draft decision entitled Provisional Rules of Procedure of the ninth Biennial meeting issued as document Co 192 BMS 2026 L three.
Assuming all colleagues have those documents available to them, I'd like to draw the attention of representatives to the provisional agenda for the ninth Biennial meeting as contained in document 192 BMS 2026 L one.
And if I hear no objections, may I take it that the meeting wishes to adopt the provisional agenda? Do I see any objections? I do not.
Therefore, the agenda is adopted.
I now move to our Organization of W.
The provisional program of work for the ninth Biennial Meeting of States to consider the implementation of the program of action to prevent, combat and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects.
Co 192 BMS 2026 L two.
Delegations will note that due to the financial constraints facing the organization, no meetings will be held tomorrow, Tuesday, the 2nd of June.
In addition, I have invited the Secretariat to make interventions on the following days this afternoon at 3:00 P.M.
Under agenda item seven, where there will be a presentation on implementation of the program of action and ITI trends, challenges and opportunities based on national reporting, and the study on obliterated markings and methods for marking recovery in the context of the International tracing instrument.
And on Wednesday morning under agenda item eight, the presentation will be on mandate implementation, the Small arms and Life Weapons Fellowship training program, the structured procedure, and the new funding mechanism.
I thank the Secretary for making itself available for both of those presentations and encourage delegations engagement.
Um, I'm looking at the room and may I take it that the meeting wishes to proceed in accordance with the program of work as contained in document L two, as I just previously identified, and as I have just outlined.
I'll allow a moment for any colleagues who wish to intervene and I see no colleagues who wish to intervene.
Therefore, it is so decided.
I now move, if I may, to consideration of the rules of procedure.
I will recall for the benefit of all delegations that the same rules of procedure were applied mutatus mutandis to all previous biennial meetings.
The draft decision on the provisional rules of procedure has been issued as a document A 192 BMS 2026 L three, which is before our meeting today.
May I take it that it is the wish of the meeting to adopt the draft decision on the rules of procedure for the ninth binnial meeting as contained in document 192 BMS 20263.
This is an opportunity for any delegation who wishes to intervene on this issue to do so.
I see no delegation seeking to take the floor accordingly.
It is so decided.
I move now to consideration of attendance in the meeting of non government organizations in accordance with Rule 63 of the rules of procedure, a list of non governmental organizations which submitted applications to participate in the Biennial meeting was made available together with accompanying relevant information to all delegations before the meeting as contained in document Co 492 BMS 2026 in one, May I take it that the meeting approves the attendance of the non governmental organizations contained in that list.
I will provide an opportunity for anybody who wishes to intervene to do so.
I see no one.
Accordingly, it is so decided.
I have also been informed that a number of side events may take place in the margins of this meeting.
Once this information is provided to the Secretariat, it will be included on the BMS website and I will be making a couple of remarks, I think, before we break at lunchtime about activities over the course of the lunch period, if that is useful to colleagues.
If colleagues would like me to include any references in those remarks, please bring them to my attention.
I now move to agenda item five, election of other officers.
As all of you will be aware, Agenda item five invites us to proceed with that election.
Following the precedent of other Biennial meetings, it was proposed that the Bureau of the meeting will consist of 14 vice chairs, two from the Group of Western European states, and three from each of the other regional groups.
The Group of African states has endorsed the nominations of Algeria, Dibouti, and Rwanda.
Group of Asia Pacific states has endorsed the nomination of Japan.
From the group of Eastern European states, the nomination of Ukraine has been received.
From the group of Latin America and Caribbean states, the nomination of the Bahamas has been received.
The group of Western European and other states has endorsed the nominations of Austria and Belgium.
May I take it that the meeting decides to elect Algeria, Austria, the Bahamas, Belgium, Dibouti, Japan, Rwanda, and Ukraine as vice chairs by acclamation.
I will pause.
I see no delegation wishing to take the floor.
There is no objection.
It's so decided.
On behalf of the participants in the meeting, I should like to take this opportunity to express to the vice chairs our warmest congratulations on their election.
I'd also like to assure them of my full cooperation and my confidence that we will jointly discharge the important responsibility in ensuring a successful meeting.
I very much value their prospective engagement.
I move now to agenda item six, entitled Election of the Chair of the Open ended Technical Expert Group.
States will recall that in its Resolution 79 40, the General Assembly endorsed the outcome of the fourth United Nations Conference and decided to establish an open ended technical expert group convening for at least two days and no more than three days in 2026 and in 2028 respectively, within the schedule of meetings of the Biennial Meeting of States.
To develop agreed recommendations by consensus to ensure the full and effective implementation of the program of action and international tracing instrument in preventing, combating, and eradicating the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in light of developments in small arms and light weapons, manufacturing, technology, and design, in particular, polymer and modular weapons and firearms produced using three D printing, focusing on the provision of international cooperation and assistance as outlined in paragraphs 1 74 to 178 in the outcome document of the fourth Review Conference.
The review conference further decided that the chair of the open ended technical expert group will report on its work and the agreed recommendations of the group to the binnual meetings of states.
This meeting will therefore proceed now with the election of the chair of the open ended Technical Expert Group.
I understand there is general agreement among delegations to elect His Excellency, Mr.
Michael Imran Kanu, permanent representative of Sierra Leone to the United Nations as chair of the Open ended Technical Expert Group.
May I take it that it is the wish of delegates to elect His Excellency, Ambassador Kanu by acclamation as chair of the open ended Technical Expert Group.
Let me take a moment to allow delegations to intervene if they wish.
I hear no objection.
It is therefore so decided.
I hereby declare Ambassador Kanu elected by acclamation as chair of the open ended Technical Expert Group, and on behalf of all delegations, I warmly congratulate Ambassador Kanu on his election, and I'm certain that he will receive the support and cooperation of each and every delegation in executing his mandate to guide the work of the expert group.
I congratulate Ambassador Kanu.
If you'll allow me to do so, I will now move to agenda item seven entitled Consideration of the implementation of the Program of action to prevent, combat and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects and the International instrument to enable states to identify and trace in a timely and reliable manner illicit small arms and life weapons.
Including the prevention and detection of diversion of small arms and light weapons to unauthorized recipients and illicit markets, taking into account technological developments with a view to strengthening the implementation of the program of action and the international tracing instrument.
In line with past practice and in order to maximize the use of our time, we will dispense with a general debate and move directly into the thematic debate.
There is no established list of speakers for these discussions.
Delegations are reminded to request the floor by pressing the speaker button in front of them in the usual way.
Due to what I anticipate will be a large number of participants, your request may not be addressed immediately.
However, the Secretariat will be monitoring all requests and will inscribe speakers by and large in the order they have been inscribed to speak.
Thank you very much indeed in advance of your patience.
Speakers will be given the floor in the order they appear on the console in front of me unless there is some particular reason why that is not feasible.
While those are speaking on behalf of a group of states should approach the Secretariat so they're given priority, and I will announce upcoming speakers at each time.
Delegations intending to take the floor should bear in mind that the allocated time limit for statements made in the national capacity is 3 minutes and for statements made on behalf of several delegations for 5 minutes.
I believe that there will be a timer indicated on the screen and let me, if I may, anticipate that we will adhere to those time limits very strictly in the course of these proceedings in order to maximize our efficiency.
I apologize if that means delegations accidentally get cut off, but I think that those time limits are important for all of us.
I would very much invite all delegations to take those time limits into account, and also we offer the opportunity for full statements to be submitted to estates at un.org with a copy to conventional alarms at UDA at un.org.
We shall now begin discussions under agenda item seven.
Just let me say in relation to those two web links, I presume they'll be made available by the Secretariat if anybody has any difficulty in trying to locate them, but it's the usual processes, of course.
We now begin discussions under agenda item seven.
Of course, I encourage delegations to be as specific as possible on how you would like to further improve the relevant section of our draft outcome document.
I would initially like to give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nigeria on behalf of the African group, followed by Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Arab Group.
Nigeria, you have the floor.
Thank you very much, Mr.
Chair.
I have the honor to speak on behalf of the AFC Group.
The group congratulates you on your election and assure you our full support.
We thank the Office of Disarmament Affairs for the quality of its preparation, and we extend a particular word of appreciation to the United Nations Regional Center for Peace and Disarmament in Africa.
The Healthcare Group warmly congratulate our sister country, Republic of Xer alone on the election as the chair of the open ended technical expert group.
Lone bring into the role of deep expertism as well as a longstanding commitment to the government and peace building and the trust of our continent.
Our group pledged its full and active engagement under the Xer alone able stewardship governance.
Mr.
Chairman, 25 years after the program of action and 21 years after the International tracing instruments, icity small arms and light weapon remain the driver of armed violence in our continent.
They are the true weapon of mass destruction in Africa, fueling terrorism and violence extremism as well as transactional organized crime, prolonged conflicts, obstructing human access, and clearing African live every single day.
The Af Group, therefore, appro N Ba Met of States and the opportunity to translate longstanding commitment and measurable results.
Our engagement at this meeting is firmly anchored on the common Africa position that sets out agreed priorities of our continent across national, regional and international level, geocentric level, and provides the framework within which the Africa group approach the delibration of this meeting.
We affirm an inherent right of all member states to self defense and the principle of sovereignty, territorial integrity, non interference, and peaceful settlement of dispute, particularly Article 2, sub four and Article 2S seven of the United Nations Charter and the preambles.
Mr.
Chairman, at this juncture, allow me to set out four major priority under our agenda.
First, national implementation must be real So AFA members have strengthened legal framework across the full life cycle of small arms and manufacturer making to scopile management and disruptions.
We have invested in our national coordination bodies, point to combat and cost a national action plan.
Upon request, we shall partner to support the implementation of those plan through which while ensuring that church assistance meets the needs of the member state coed to ensure national ownership and voluntary national targets.
The second point on the priority of agenda of Africa at least is making record keeping and tracing must remain the cornerstone of our engagement.
Thirdly, the prevention and detention of diversion must be tackled at its source.
Diversion from illegal stockpile, through theft, leakage, and authorized transfer, the press will channel through which weapon, most armed group, terrorists and criminal network.
Africa could therefore call for strengthening fiscal security and stoping management in peacetime, conflict and post conflict situations, robust end use and end user control, systematic diversion, monitoring, documentation and investigation, support for enhanced information exchange, and decisive measure to criminalize the conversion of the activated block fiiring nonle firearm into functional weapon.
We also realize our call to prohibit the transfer of small arms and large weapon to authorize non state actors including criminals and terrorist groups, particularly non state actors that are violent.
Fourthly, technology must close the gap for illicit trading, proliferation and diversion of small arms and large weapons not widen it.
The need to control the use of AI and other technology information to ensure that technology is not an instrument by which we expand I thank the distinguished representative of Nigeria on behalf of the African group, and I invite the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Arab Group, followed by Sri Lanka, Uruguay, and Qatar.
Distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia, you have the floor.
Yes.
Sra.
Thank you very much, Mr.
Chair.
The Arab Group would like to congratulate you and express appreciation to you and your team on your presidency of the ninth Biennial Meeting of States, and we would like to support you during this meeting.
And in this context, we wish to highlight the following points as the basis for the Arab position on this vital topic.
First, the Arab group attaches growing importance to combating the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, in particular in light of the catastrophic security humanitarian and economic impacts of the unprecedented increase in the illicit supply of such weapons in the Arab region.
The group notes that some governments appeared to supply terrorist organizations and illegal armed groups with weapons in order to prolong armed conflicts and achieve malicious political objectives in violation of the most basic principles of international law, the UN Charter and a number of Security Council resolutions, including Resolution 20 370 of 2017, second, the importance of the UN program of action to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects and the need to preserve its value as a consensual instrument whose primary purpose is to build confidence and strengthen cooperation in order to eliminate the illicit trade in such weapons.
The group underscores the importance of full adherence to the mandate of the program without attempting to expand it to include non consensus issues, thereby preserving its effectiveness as a specialized framework for this file.
Third, the need to ensure that any measures taken under the umbrella of the program of action will not interfere with the inherent right of states to self defense, as well as the right to manufacture, import, and possess conventional weapons for this purpose in accordance with security needs.
Fourth, the need to avoid imposing any politicized or discriminatory restrictions on the illegitimate trade in conventional arms among governments in accordance with the state sovereign assessment of the nature of the security threats it faces.
The same time, all states in particular exporting and producing states should assume the responsibility to prohibit any transfer of arms to entities without official authorization from the competent authority of the importing state.
Fifth, the Arab Group maintains that the program of action is a standalone international framework.
We emphasize the importance of ensuring the implementation does not conflict with any other international mechanism, including the International ammunition framework.
Sixth, the importance of the international cooperation and technical assistance in implementing the program of action and the ITI, including supporting states capacities through modern technologies and through capacity building and transfer of technology.
Seventh, we attach great importance to follow up on the technological developments relevant to small arms and light weapons, including modular weapons, polymer based weapons, and three D print technologies and continuing to study their impact and implications within the framework of the program of action and the ITI.
We must afford priority to the full and effective implementation of existing commitments while avoiding imposing any additional burdens that would undermine the effectiveness of these frameworks.
We must also take into account disparities in technical and financial capacities between developed and developing countries.
We further underscore the importance of respecting states right to establish their own regulatory frameworks and to avoid imposing restrictions or measures that would negatively affect the legitimate, peaceful and commercial use of modern technology.
Eight, it is important to support the fellowship program of the small arms and lights weapons established by GA Resolution 71 stroke 77.
As well as the need to ensure providing adequate and sustainable resources to guarantee its effectiveness, whether through voluntary contributions or within discussions related to the UN budget.
This would contribute to strengthening the capacities of developing countries.
In conclusion, the ARP Group affirms the importance of continually assessing the effectiveness of the program of action and the progress achieved in its implementation, including consideration of voluntary tools by states to evaluate progress made.
Thank you, Mr.
Chairman.
I thank the permanent representative of Saudi Arabia and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sri Lanka, followed by Uruguay, Sri Lanka, you have the floor.
Mr.
Chair, my delegation congratulates you on your assumption as chair of this STEM meeting.
We assure you of our fullest support and cooperation.
The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons continues to fuel conflict and undermine sustainable development.
Their accessibility and widespread availability allow violence to deteriorate across societies and exact a profound human cost.
Sri Lanka attaches great importance to the effective implementation of the program of action and the International Tracing Instrument.
We welcome the consensual adoption of the outcome document of the fourth Review Conference on the program of action as an important step in advancing cooperation to address the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons.
The primary responsibility for preventing the illicit transfer and diversion of such weapons rests with states.
This requires national measures and real political will.
Sri Lanka continues to strengthen institutional and operational measures on effective management, storage, issuance, accounting, and oversight of state held small arms and light weapons through accountability procedures and regular auditing mechanisms.
Institutional safeguards are in place to prevent unauthorized access, loss, theft, or diversion of weapons and ammension from military stocks.
The military personnel are also provided with adequate training to the prevention of illicit arms proliferation.
Mr.
Chair, as an island nation situated along vital maritime routes in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is acutely aware of the threats posed by illicit trafficking networks that increasingly exploit evolving technologies and transnational criminal channels.
Addressing these challenges requires stronger information sharing, improved tracing capacities, and closer cooperation among states and relevant institutions.
Developing countries continue to face difficulties in accessing the resources, technology, and expertise necessary for the full implementation of commitments under the program of action.
In this regard, Sri Lanka has benefited from practical capacity building initiatives, including cooperation with the UNRCPD to enhance national capacities related to the safe and secure management of state held weapons.
Illicit trade in small arms and light weapons affects us all and requires a collective response.
Sri Lanka remains committed to working constructively with all partners to strengthen implementation at the national, regional and international levels in pursuit of more peaceful and secure society.
I thank the permanent representative of Sri Lanka and I pass the floor to the Sings representative of Uruguay.
Senor Presidente, Chair, I wish to begin by expressing the sincere thanks to my delegation for your work, in particular for convening informal meetings that have fostered constructive dialogue.
Also, thank you for the early circulation of the drafts of the outcomes document.
As underscored by resolution 18 38, the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons continues to have grave humanitarian and socioeconomic consequences and represents a constant threat to the peace, security, stability, and sustainable development of our countries.
Against this backdrop, the need to strengthen our nationals on a domestic, regional and international level is more urgent than ever today.
Uruguay appreciates the progress made in the eighth biannual Meeting of States, in particular, the adoption by consensus of its final document that reaffirmed the relevance of the programme of action at the International Tracing Instrument as fundamental frameworks to prevent, combat and eradicate the illicit trade of small arms and light weapons.
In line with what was agreed, you require belief that it's particularly relevant to promote national policies and actions that address all of the steps of the life cycle of weapons from the manufacturing, transfer, storage, as well as their registration, tracing and destruction.
We have promoted among other actions, the carrying out of diagnostic of state capacities with the support of the OAS and the Inter American Development Bank and the UN Institute for Disarmment Research.
We have also presented in a timely manner our national report.
Just like during previous meetings, Uruguay understands that the presentation of national reports is not a mere formal exercise, but rather a concrete tool to measure progress, identify needs, and strengthen transparency and facilitate international cooperation.
In this regard, we encourage continuing to optimize these reports, including in relation to the efforts to compile data links to target 16.4 of the 2030 agenda.
Polymer and modular weapons and three D printing pose additional threats to traditional control measures, which requires responses that are tailored and adapted to new technological realities.
Our country continues to strengthen cooperation with the technical group of experts to draft consensus based recommendations and practical ones.
We believe that the prevention of the trade in small arms and light weapons must continue to be guided by a humanitarian preventive and cooperative approach.
Thank you very much, Chairman.
I thank the Distinguished Representative of Uruguay.
I now invite Distinguished Representative of Qatar, followed by Morocco, Argentina, and Rwanda.
Qatar, you have the floor.
Sad Thérèse.
Did I attend.
Mr.
Chairman, at the outset, I would like to congratulate you on your appointment to preside over the night by il meeting of States on the program of action on self and you can count on our support.
We would also like to subscribe ourselves to what the Arab States said.
Mr.
Chairman, armed conflicts and destabilization are being fueled by the proliferation of self.
These weapons are falling into the hands of non state groups.
Therefore, we'd like to underscore the importance of fully implementing the program of action and the international trends tracing instrument in keeping with the UN charter, as well as the principle of the sovereignty of states non interference in their internal affairs and with full respect for the right of the states to uphold their defense and security instruments.
The state of Qatar in 2026 submitted its last report on the implementation of the ITI.
On the ITA program of action.
Regarding the outcome document, we must urge states too, on a voluntary basis and in keeping with their national capacity to establish national indices for measuring the progress they've made on implementing the program of action and the ITI.
Mr.
Chairman, we wish to reiterate the importance of international cooperation, as well as the need to provide financial and technical support as well as to build capacity, especially in developing states and as regards marking, tracing, stockpile management, border security, and the elimination of excess arms so that they can combat the diversion of these weapons towards non authorized entities which could use these for illicit or terrorist activities.
By way conclusion, we'd like to emphasize the importance of cooperating at the international level to prevent the illicit trade in self and to ensure the eradication, all the while keeping in mind the capacity of developing states and by providing assistance to them on request.
I thank you.
I thank the representative of Qatar and I now pass the floor to Morocco, followed by Argentina and Rwanda.
Distinguish Rereative of Morocco, you have the floor.
President.
Thank you, Mr.
Chairman.
At the outset, I would like to congratulate you on your election to preside over this ninth biannual meeting.
We stand convinced that under your leadership, our meeting will come to a balanced and fruitful outcome.
The illicit trade and self is one of the most systemic security challenges of our time.
It fuels conflicts, terrorism, and organized crime.
It also undermines development efforts across the world's regions.
BMS nine should face up to this reality.
At the national level against this backdrop, Morocco has crafted robust legislation covering the arms trade throughout the life cycle.
Now, this legal framework has been strengthened by operational measures inter alea to ensure we can trace and secure firearms.
We can address the issue of munitions depots.
The list goes on as regards tracking the IAMS system set up by Interpol also helps to facilitate international cooperation.
On this basis, Morocco would like to highlight three priorities.
First, Substantive improvements to the tracing of illicit weapons, which is too high at the global level.
The ITI can only make progress if there's systematic marking if states respond to cooperation requests in a timely fashion.
Second, we need to tailor our national frameworks to new technological realities, modular weapons, polymers, three D printing, all of that means that there is a lot of diversion that our existing frameworks had not anticipated.
The work of the technical group should result in operational tangible recommendations which can be directly applicable by member states.
Now these developments also call on us to strengthen border control, including by using scanners which can detect polymer and three D weapons.
Third, in order to prevent diversion, we need to work on our transfer approval system.
Often, the diversion happens as a result of a transfer which was initially legal.
We need verification measures after the weapons have been sent.
We need clear communication between those sending and those receiving the weapons to close these gaps.
By way of conclusion, Mr.
Chairman, Morocco stands ready to constructively engage in negotiations on our final document to ensure that these priorities are reflected at the level that they deserve.
I thank you.
I thank Morocco.
I now give the floor to Argentina, followed by Rwanda and then Greece.
Argentina, you have the floor.
Thank you very much, Chairman.
Please allow me to thank you, Ambassador Larson, for heading up this bi annual meeting.
Also to your team and the Secretariat.
Thank you for the efforts made to promote constructive dialogue in the implementation of the program of action on small arms and light weapons.
We would like to now underscore the following issues.
First of all, like we have done historically, we support the needs to promote responsible, effective, and technically viable controls to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trafficking of small arms and unlike weapons throughout their entire life cycle.
It must be a priority to preserve and strengthen the consensus reached in the framework of the program of action in the International Tracing instrument that alongside the global framework for ammunitions management constitutes the main universal instruments for addressing this challenge.
Secondly, we believe that these instruments must be complemented with other relevant frameworks such as the Protocol on firearms and fundamentally the Arms Trades Treaty, harnessing existing synergies between them and strengthening implementation on a national and regional level.
That we encourage the exchange of good practices and national experiences as well as technical assistance between states.
What's more, we underscore the substantial value of national reports as a fundamental tool for evaluating the implementation of the program and strengthening its efficiency.
Fourth, we wish to underscore national experience in terms of registration, control, and traceability of firearms.
For more than three decades now our country has had a specialized national authority tasked with authorizing and overseeing activities linked to firearms, ammunitions, and explosives.
This system is supported by a national digital database that enables us to strengthen the traceability of control materials and contribute to the prevention and detection of illicit trafficking.
Fifth, we observe with attention challenges associated with emerging technologies such as additive manufacturing or three D printing that pose new challenges for control traceability and prevention systems, prevention of illicit deviation.
We believe that it's particularly important to pay attention not only to complete weapons, but also to their parts and essential components.
Sixth, we are grateful for the draft of the final document and we are in favor of a concise, action focused approach, we reiterate some we will submit some suggestions in writing.
Thank you very much.
Thank you, Argentina.
I now give the floor to Rwanda, followed by Greece and Mexico, Rwanda, you have the floor.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
At the outset, please allow me to convey my delegation's sincere appreciation to you to lead our work during this nine Pa meeting of S P.
Please rest assured of my delegation full support.
Mr.
Chair Randa aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the African group and will offer the following remarks in our national capacity.
Chair, for Randa, the full and effective implementation of the POA and RTI remains a priority.
For us, these instruments must focus not only on commitment, but on the protocol implementation, measurable progress, and the means to address the emerging security challenges, including new emerging technologies.
The illicit trade, diversion, and uncontrolled proliferation of small arms and light weapons in all their aspects, continue to fuel conflict, armed violence, terrorism, and transnational organized crime, particularly in developing countries.
Their humanitarian and socioeconomic impacts remains severe, undermining international peace and security, weakening institutions and the rule of law, hindering sustainable development, humanitarian assistance, and impeding post conflict recovery and long term development efforts.
Persistent challenges continue to impede the effective implementation of the POA and the ITI, including weak legislative and regulatory frameworks, limited institutional and technical capacities, inadequate ICT infrastructure, and trained personnel, particularly in ammunition management as well insufficient harmonized reporting and data collection mechanism.
These challenges are further compounded by limited financial resources, difficulties in measuring implementation, progress, and persistent risk of diversion throughout the life cycle of small arms and light weapons.
Against this backdrop, BMS nine presents a timely opportunity to review progress achieved, identify remaining gaps, exchange best practices, and further strengthen international cooperation and technical assistance.
In this regard, we wish to underscore several priorities, areas that merit continued attention.
First, there is need for a sustained political will to address the root causes as well as the socioeconomic and environmental drivers that contribute to the illicit trade of small arms and light weapons.
Appropriate responses will be developed in accordance with national laws, regulations, and priorities.
Second, enhance effective data collection, coordination, monitoring to scale and enforce existing regional platforms.
In this regard, enhanced cooperation among national focal points, regional mechanisms and international partners remains indispensable.
More robust efforts to strengthen preventive measures, diversion, including through enhanced stockpile management, border management, stronger cross border cooperation.
Mr.
Chair, in conclusion, Rwanda remains firmly comed.
I think thanks to the distinguished representative of Rwanda.
I now get the Greece followed by Mexico and Japan, Greece, you have the floor.
Mr.
Seer, I congratulate you for your appointment and I wish you success in your endeavors.
Also, allow me to commend you and your team, as well as ODA for directing the preparatory process of the meeting in an exemplary, transparent, and inclusive way.
Greece fully aligned with the statement to be delivered by the European Union and would like to add the following remarks in its national capacity.
My country is highly concerned by the continuous threat that poses to international peace security, the diversion, illicit trade, and unauthorized use of small arms and light weapons and related ammunition.
We consider the UN program of action as a universal framework to address the threat posed by illicit SALW and we support its full and effective implementation at national, regional and global levels.
My country is committed to the implementation of the POA and has undertaken the appropriate actions through annual reporting and provision of additional data on arms transaction.
Moreover, we remain committed to the implementation of other relevant global instruments, such as the global framework for through life conventional ammunition Management and the Arms Trade Treaty.
At this point, allow me to add that Greece highly values some regional relevant initiatives, including the extensive framework of the European Union on arms transfers, the EU strategy against illicit firearms, small arms and weapons, as well as the EU fed arms and ammunition Management validation system.
In addition, we will commend the valuable work of the Southeastern Eastern Europe Clearing House for the control of SALW.
Mr.
S, Greece aspires to this meeting will contribute to the enhancement of the effectiveness of the POA at the International tracing Instrument and decided to work constructively with all member states for a consensual outcome document.
Greece welcomes your draft outcome document and believes that it can serve as a good basis for negotiation.
In particular, we support the references related to the recent developments on SALW manufacturing technology and design, in particular, polymer and modular weapons and firearms produced using three D breeding.
Moreover, we deem most important the code to strengthen cooperation between states and the private sector and industry on SAWL related issues.
In addition, we fight valuable the measures related to the promotion of border cooperation, sub regional, regional, and cross regional coordination, and information sharing.
To conclude, Mr.
Chair, you can count on Greece's full support in your efforts to achieve consensus on the outcome document.
I thank you.
Thank you.
Representative of Greece.
I passed the of Mexico, followed by Japan, followed by Finland.
Distinguished Repative of Mexico, you have the floor.
Recognize Presidente.
Thank you very much Chairman.
My country joins other delegations in congratulating you upon your election as well as Ambassador Cano.
You should know that you certainly count on Mexico support to make this meeting a success.
Mexico reaffirms the importance of the program of action and the ITI.
Because they are the main multilateral frameworks to help prevent, combat and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all their aspects.
Mexico believes that one of the main implementation challenges we face is the deviation of small arms and light weapons to non authorized recipients and illicit markets.
This phenomenon requires recognizing that the risk of deviation is present throughout the entire life cycle of weapons from the moment of their manufacture to their final use or purpose, and that's why we must continue to strengthen prevention and detection measures of deviation through effective marketing, registration, and localization systems as well as controls over the transfer of them, risk assessments and the documentation of end user and end use, and the timely exchange of information.
For my country, it's particularly important to advance towards a approach of shared responsibility that involves all stakeholders that participate in the supply chain.
Governments, industry, and the private sector must work together in order to prevent and combat the illicit trafficking and deviation of weapons.
Industry has a fundamental role to play here through due diligence measures, the monitoring of their distribution chains, and self regulation mechanisms that contribute to avoiding legally produced weapons ending up in the hands of criminal groups or non authorized actors.
Furthermore, we believe that it's necessary to maintain a balanced assessment of challenges associated with new technology.
Furthermore, Mexico believes that it's fundamental to include the voices and experiences of victims and survivors of armed violence.
We must better understand the physical, psychological, social and community impacts that armed violence has on people and on the affected populations.
Finally, we reiterate how important it is to continue to include a gender perspective in the implementation of the program of action.
This requires strengthening the compilation and analysis of disaggregated data, better understanding the differentiated impacts of armed violence on women, men, girls and boys, and promoting the full, equal and meaningful participation of women at all levels of decision making.
Thank you very much.
Thank you, Mexico.
I give the floor to Japan, followed by Finland and El Salvador, Japan, you have the floor.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
At the outset, allow me to express my sincerest congratulations to you, Ambassiden La of Australia on your election as chair of the ninth Bnual meeting.
I assure you my delegation's full support and cooperation throughout this week, Mr.
Chair.
Since its adoption, the program of action has played central role in strengthening efforts to address small arms and light weapons issues around the world.
However, as the Secretary-General report released last year confirmed, the proliferation, misuse, diversion of small arms and light weapons have remained drivers of armed violence and have caused regional insecurity, terrorism and crime to escalate in various countries.
Against this background, Japan, together with Colombia and South Africa has submitted annual resolutions against trade in small arms and light weapons to the General Assembly to further promote the implementation of the POA.
The most recent of which was adopted by consensus in 2025.
Mr.
Chair, this meeting will provide us with a great opportunity to give a direction to the implementation of the POA and the international pricing instrument based on the action oriented measures adopted at the fourth Review Conference in 2024.
My delegation considers the Sate draft outcome document to be a good basis with its conciseness and balanced listing of concrete measures based on past consensus language.
On the preamble section and Section A, Japan can support the current language in principle, including paragraph 15 on the complementalities between the POA, IDI, and other relevant instruments.
Mr.
Chair, As a main contributor to saving lives entity or Salient fund and donor several cooperation projects, including in Kenya, Sudan, and Western Africa.
We also look forward to fruitful discussions on how to strengthen the implementation of the POA with regard to international assistance to call for timely support to the second phase of salient Fund, Japan supports its specific reference in paragraph 58.
In concluding, Japan is ready to contribute to the successful conclusion of the meeting and reaffirm our strong commitment by adopting the outcome document by consensus.
I thank you.
Thank you, Japan.
I have Finland, followed by El Salvador, followed by Malaysia.
Finland, you have the floor.
Chair, This is, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic countries, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Finland.
Does it work? The illicit production, transfer, diversion and misuse of small arms and light weapons and their ammunition continue to pose serious threats to peace, security, and sustainable development.
Across regions, these weapons fuel armed conflict, organized crime, terrorism and violence, undermine state institutions and hinder peace building efforts.
Mr.
Chair, this meeting provides a crucial opportunity to advance the effective implementation of the program of action, as well as the International Tracing Instrument.
More than 20 years after their adoption, these instruments remain central to international efforts to prevent and address the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, as well as achieving the 2030 agenda.
At the same time, evolving security environments require renewed commitment and concrete action.
Strengthening coherence with related international frameworks is essential.
The Nordic countries underscore the importance of reinforcing synergies with the arms Trade Treaty, the firearms protocol, and the global framework for through life conventional ammunition management.
Effective control of small arms and light weapons cannot be achieved without systematic attention to ammunition and its diversion risks.
Mr.
Chair, rapid technological developments are reshaping the landscape of weapons production, marking, and tracing.
New technologies offer significant opportunities to improve transparency, tracing and accountability, while also presenting new challenges.
Neoric countries support efforts to better integrate relevant technologies into the implementation of the program of action and the International Tracing Instrument, including through practical and forward looking recommendations.
In this context, we welcome initiatives aimed at identifying both risks and opportunities as well as developing recommendations associated with emerging technologies, including the work of the open ended technical expert group.
Excellencies, Mr.
Chair, preventing diversion remains a shared priority.
Transparent and timely information sharing, including on confirmed cases of diversion, strengthens mutual trust and enhances nationals export control and risk assessment processes.
Such cooperation is key to disrupting illicit supply chains.
The impacts of illicit small arms and light weapons are deeply gendered.
Women and girls are disproportionately affected by armed violence, including through gender based violence facilitated by the availability of illicit weapons.
The Nordic countries stress that gender responsive arms control policies are not optional, but indeed essential.
Integrating a gender perspective across policy frameworks and ensuring the full equal and meaningful participation of women in decision making contributes to more effective and sustainable peace and security outcomes.
While states bear the primary responsibility for implementation, inclusive cooperation is essential.
Civil society, academia, and international organizations play an indispensable role.
In this regard, we highlight the work of existing funding mechanism and research programs such as UNSCO Salant, Unitair AT Voluntary Trust Fund, and other regional and bilateral mechanism for international assistance and cooperation addressing the challenges of small arms and light weapons, proliferation and control.
Finally, Mr.
Chair, let me conclude by saying the Nordic countries strongly support the UN program of action on SV and the International Tracing Instrument and the Arms Trade Treaty.
We call on all delegations to engage constructively and show the political will necessary to deliver a balanced outcome that accelerates implementation.
We remain committed to working with all partners towards consensus.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
Thank you, Finland.
I have El Salvador, followed by Malaysia, followed by South Africa.
El Salvador, you have the floor.
Thank you, Chairman.
Please allow me to begin by expressing our congratulations to you, Ambassador James Larson, for your stewardship of this process and for the efforts made during the preparatory consultations that enabled us to reach this ninth biannual meeting with results focused approach and practical and implementable approach.
El Salvador El Salvador attaches a high level of importance to the program of action and the ITI as the main multilateral frameworks for preventing, combating, and eradicating the illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons in all their aspects.
The delegation of El Salvador has participated actively in the preparatory consultations for this meeting and appreciates that several of our priorities have been reflected in the resulting document.
What's more, for us, it's fundamental to continue to strengthen measures geared towards preventing and detecting the illicit deviation of small arms and live weapons.
In this regard, we attach particular importance to durable and resistant marking, the keeping of adequate registers and tracing capacities.
These measures are essential if we are to avoid weapons reaching unauthorized users and to dismantle illicit trafficking routes.
For us, it's also important to maintain a comprehensive approach.
To the entire lifecycle of small arms and like weapons including their ammunitions, parts and components from their manufacturing right to their final disposal.
An approach of this nature would enable us to comprehensively address the different points in which deviation and illicit trafficking may occur.
Chairman, we also recognize the growing relevance of emerging technologies in the context of small arms and like weapons, and this is why we appreciate progress made in this area and in particular, the work of the open ended technical expert group, particularly their work in areas related to new production and printing techniques, resistant materials, and polymer based technologies.
In this context, we believe that tools related to the compilation and analysis of data as well as other technological applications could contribute to strengthening national capacities to prevent the illicit trafficking and detecting deviation patterns of these weapons.
My delegation welcomes references to the meaningful full and effective participation of women in all decision making processes related to the program of action in the ITI.
Thank you very much, Chairman.
Thank you, El Salvador.
I have Malaysia, followed by South Africa and then Italy.
Malaysia you have the floor.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
MSA congratulates you on the convening of the ninth biannual meeting of States and commends your able stewardship throughout the preparatory process.
We also thank you and your team for your efforts in guiding our work towards a balanced, practical, and consensus based outcome.
MLSsia reaffirms its strong support for the UN program of action to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects, as well as the International tracing instrument.
These instruments remains central to our collective efforts to prevent illicit trade, diversion, misuse, and uncontrolled proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons poses a grave threat to international peace, security, and sustainable development.
Its impact is felt not only in conflict and post conflict settings, but also in transnational organized crime, terrorism, trafficking, and armed violence.
This issue requires a holistic arms control and disarmament approach combining arms control, law enforcement, conflict prevention, post conflict peace building, and socioeconomic development.
Maysia underscores that the full and effective implementation of the POA requires strong national ownership, supported by meaningful regional and international cooperation.
Therefore, MSA calls upon all member states through the United Nations framework to play a larger role in curbing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
Although the POA is not legally binding, it does provide the international community with helpful guidelines and parameters in addressing relevant challenges.
Nationally, MSA has put in place stringent laws, administrative procedures and regulations for the effective control over the production of small arms and light weapons, as well as over the exports, imports, transits, and transfer of such weapons in order to prevent illegal manufacturing and illicit trafficking or their illegal diversion to unauthorized recipients.
The regional and international levels, MACA continues to support, participate in and contribute to initiatives under the Asean framework aimed at strengthening member states capacities to combat and combat illicit trade in firearms.
MLSE also places importance on capacity building efforts to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit arms trade at the operational level.
Malaysia works through regional and international law enforcement mechanisms, including AceNopol and Interpol to enhance cooperation and address arms trafficking effectively.
Mr.
Chair, MSHA recognizes that development in manufacturing technology and design, including polymer, modular, illicitly produced trade depleted firearms present both challenges and opportunities.
We support practical and technically sound discussions under the OETEG anchored in the POA and ITI and implemented in line with national laws, capacities, and priorities.
Addressing these developments require practical, sustainable and inclusive responses, including capacity building, technical assistance, equipment, training and technology transfer, particularly for developing countries.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
Thank you, Malaysia.
I have South Africa, followed by Italy, followed by Indonesia, South Africa, you have the floor.
Thank you, Chair.
Congratulations on your election as well as that of the Bureau members and South Africa would like to indicate that it aligns with a statement delivered by Nigeria on behalf of the Africa Group.
Chairperson, our leaders at the 2024 Summit of the future underscore the urgency of addressing the risks associated with illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, including their parts and ammunition.
They called for strengthened national and international measures to prevent, combat, and eradicate this threat.
The human cost of the illicit trade, circulation, and diversion of small arms and light weapons remains unacceptably high, particularly for women and children across the African continent and globally.
The illicit trade in these weapons continue to fuel conflict, terrorism, and violent crime.
Chairperson, it is therefore imperative that we accelerate implementation of the commitments under the Pact for the future, the program of action, the International tracing instrument, and relevant General Assembly resolutions.
South Africa reaffirms the importance of complementarity of the arms control and disarmament frameworks, including the arms Trade Treaty and the global framework on through life conventional ammunition management in strengthening arms control and building confidence.
Adré the root causes of the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, including socioeconomic drivers remains essential.
South Africa supports linking the POA to sustainable development objectives in general, including the 20 2030 agenda and the African Union's silencing the Guns Initiative under Agenda 2063.
South Africa has accordingly adopted necessary national legislative and regulatory measures as well as embarked on programs pertaining to stockpile management and destruction and marking, record keeping and tracing of small arms.
South Africa is also party to the Southern African Development Community Protocol on the control of firearms, ammunition, and other related materials.
We further emphasize the need for the full equal and meaningful participation of women, including in leadership and decision making roles across all arms control and disarmament processes.
Chirp and progress in the implementation of the POA and the ITI requires adequate capacity and sustainable financing.
In this regard, we welcome the initiatives such as the Small Arms and Light Weapons Fellowship Program and proposals for a dedicated United Nations funding mechanism as ways to strengthen capacities of states and support implementation of the POA and ITI.
In conclusion, technological advancements can significantly enhance efforts, particularly marking, record keeping, storage, and tracing of small arms and light weapons and ensuring equitable access to these technologies is therefore essential.
I thank you.
Thank you, South Africa.
I have Italy, Indonesia, and Asia, Italy, you have the floor.
Mr.
Chair, I would like to congratulate you on your appointment as chair of the BMS nine and to express my gratitude to you, your team, and the NODA for the extensive and thorough preparatory work undertaken over the past few months.
Mr.
Chair, Italy aligns itself with the statement that will be delivered by the European Union, and I would like to add some remarks in a national capacity.
Mr.
Chair, the proliferation of illicit, small arms and light weapons and their ammunition keeps playing a major role in fueling instability and armed violence, while at the same time hampering sustainable development and security prospects for many regions in the world.
Too often such weapons illegal flows contribute to feed terrorist groups, violate the United Nations arms embargos and determine a rise in crime and widespread violence.
Among the actors that contribute significantly to the aggravation of such situation, there is very often organized crime, a scar that Italy has historically been at the forefront of combating both domestically and internationally through a solid expertise and the excellence of our judiciary and law enforcement operators.
In recent years, we have witnessed the emergence of new technologies with the potential to redefine our understanding of SAB and the manner in which the international community approach the illicit trafficking, diversion, and ultimate use, but also the prevention, the monitoring, and the safeguarding measures associated with them.
In this framework, the role of the open ended technical expert group is essential as it provides at the same time a solid basis to grasp the benefits of technological advancements and to better understand the magnitude of the challenges associated to them.
Mr.
Chair, Italy is deeply committed to countering the proliferation of small arms and light weapons and the illicit application of these emerging technologies, which can act as catalysts for self perpetuating cycles of violence that disproportionately affect already vulnerable communities in regions devastated by armed conflict and systemic brutality.
Italy's efforts at the international level to combat these phenomena are all encompassing, aimed at identifying and addressing the root causes of small arms and light weapon proliferation, starting from the lack of opportunities for the youth, poor levels of education, corruption and institutional instability affecting many of the regions concerned.
In our action, we benefit also from a robust national and European legal framework in line with Italy's international commitments.
These provides us with the tools for a detailed and preventive action by regulating every aspect of armed exports and ensuring they abide by the strongest standards.
Mr.
Chair, Italy guarantees its full cooperation in countering the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
Mr.
Chair, Italy remains fully committed to the United Nations framework to prevent, combat, and eradicate ic trade of salt.
You may count on our full cooperation Thank you, Italy, I have Indonesia followed by Niger, followed by Mali, and then Brazil.
Indonesia, you have the floor.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
Allow me to congratulate you for your elections.
We assure you of our full cooperations for a successful and balanced outcome of this time beyond meeting of states.
The continued illicit trade defers and misuse of small arms and weapons continue to pose serious challenges to peace and security at the international, regional and national level.
These challenges are compounded by rapid technological developments which make illicit transfer and defers harder to prevent, detect, tress, and interdict.
Against this background, Indonesia reaffirms the continued relevance of the program of actions and the international resting instruments.
Allow me to highlight the following points for our considerations.
First, the importance of effective prevention and detections to strengthen national measures.
This requires strengthening national legislations, stockpile management and security as well as monitoring mechanisms in accordance with national priorities, capacities, and domestic circumstances.
Idunisa has implemented robust national monitoring licensing and regulatory measures for standard military weapons to prevent their resence into illicit markets.
We remain committed to enhancing coordination, strengthening reporting, and aligning with international best practices.
Underscore that implementation of the POA must respect national sovereignty, legitimate security needs, and the rights of states to develop national capabilities.
Second, the significance of continued discussions on technological developments related to small armst weapons.
Indonesia support the establishment of the open ended technical expert group to identify feasible technical approaches, share good practices, and assist states in adapting their national control systems.
Its work should remain balanced, practical and responsive to differing national capacities, particularly those of developing countries.
Third, the need for strengthened regional and international cooperation and assistance.
Effective collaborations, including through strengthened border cooperations, intelligence sharing, and law enforcement coordinations, is essential to prevent the use of illicit small arms weapons in transnational organized crime.
Through Asean, Indonesia is also advancing its regional efforts.
The Asean Declaration on combating arms smuggling provides a framework to intensify cooperations in preventing the cross border illit threats of firearms and ammunitions.
We also underscore the importance of capacity building to address gaps in marketing, tracing, record keeping, stockpile management, and challenges arising from emerging technologies.
Long term nondiscriminatory, technical, and financial assistance reminds vital on these efforts.
Mr.
Chair, let me conclude by reiterating Indonesia's commitment to working constructively with all partners to advance the full balance and effective implementation of the POA and the IPI.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
Thank you, Indonesia.
I have Mali, followed by Brazil, followed by Islamic Republic of Iran.
Mali, you have the floor.
President.
Mr.
Chairman.
Mr.
Chairman.
The delegation of Mali extends its heartfelt congratulations to you on your election to steer the BMS nine Bial meeting.
Rest assured you have Mali's full support throughout the proceedings.
Mali commends the unswerving efforts made by the UN Secretary-General, the Office of Disarmed Affairs, as well as all partners committed to this fight against small arms and light weapons.
We align ourselves with the statement delivered by Nigeria on behalf of the EFA Group and the statement that will be delivered at a later stage.
However, we did want to make a number of remarks in a national capacity.
Mr.
Chairman, the illicit trade in itself is one of the main drivers of instability, insecurity, and transnational crime in the Sahel region.
It fuels armed conflict, terrorism, violent extremism, transnational organized crime, as well as related trafficking.
It undermines peace, development, and state consolidation efforts as regards Mali, Following a number of difficult years, this threat is front of mind for us.
Illicit arms flows facilitate the work of criminal and terrorist groups throughout our sub region, contributing to The suffering of civilians, they undermine the prospects of lasting stability.
Confronted with the situation, the government of Mali remains firmly committed to implementing the UN program of action as well as the international tracing instrument, the ITI.
To this end, sustained efforts have been undertaken to bolster our legal and institutional framework in Mali, as regards small arms and light weapons control.
Mali in particular is continuing to build capacity of its defense security forces when it comes to controlling, securing, and managing arms and ammunition stockpiles.
We have marking mechanisms, tracing mechanisms.
We're working on a cross border basis with our neighbors and regional organizations.
Last but not least, we are raising awareness amongst our communities about the dangers related to illicit arms trafficking.
Mr.
Chair, Mali stands convinced that no state can go alone when it confronts these challenges.
This fight requires heightened international cooperation on the basis of shared responsibility, solidarity, and respect for the sovereignty of states.
Thus, we call on the international community to provide support to affected countries, in particular, by providing technical and financial assistance, as well as assisting national capacity building and marking and tracing technology transfer, stockpile management technology transfer, and efforts to secure borders.
This is the best way to combat armed groups and terrorists as often weapons from legal circuits fall into their hands.
Mr.
Chairman, we reiterate our commitment to the program of action.
We will stand together with the international community.
The speaker's microphone has been cut off.
Thank you, Molly.
I have Brazil followed by Iran, followed by Iraq.
Brazil, you have the floor.
Thank you.
Mr.
Chair, at the outset, I would like to congratulate you on your election as chair of the ninth Biannual Meeting of the States.
You can count on Brazil's full support in ensuring a successful outcome to our work.
Mr.
Chair, across eighth B annal meetings of state and four review conferences, we have built a significant body of practice and understanding on the implementation of the POA.
In parallel, we recall the successful adoption by the General Assembly of the global framework for through life conventional ammunition Management.
Brazil believes that ammunition management and fire alarms management are two sides of the same coin and should reinforce one another.
Mr.
Chair, although progress has been made, much work remains to ensure the full implementation of the POA and the ITT.
Latin American Caribbean countries face significant challenges in combating the illicit traffic of firearms and their ammunition.
This is exacerbated by the rapid development of new technologies, which test the normative and operational limits of our control regimes.
In this regard, the first meeting of the OETEG is an important step towards increasing our understanding of how these new technologies are being used in the illegal trade and shaping future norms before illicit practice take root.
Mr.
Chair, Brazil welcomes the latest version of the revised draft outcome document, particularly the language concerning the gendered impacts of illicit CALW, the implementation of the marketing, record keeping, and tracing commitments under the ITT regardless of the materials or manufacturing methods used, and the establishment of national, region, regional and global transfer controls to prevent diversion.
There are, however, three points of concern.
First, we wish to emphasize that the expression environmental drivers in paragraph seven should not be interpreted as establishing a linkage between environmental issues and security matters.
Second, to avoid unintended effects on national industrial sectors, we suggest the following alternative language for paragraph 48.
To encourage the adoption of preventive measures by industry to address the diversion of small arms and light weapons through commercial supply chains.
Finally, Brazil would appreciate clarification regarding the use of expression illicit markets.
As in our understanding, illicit trade would be the more appropriate term for describing the production, distribution, and trade of goods prohibited by law.
Mr.
Chair, we look forward to maintain a positive trajectory as we confront emerging issues.
Thank you.
Thank you, Brazil.
I have Iran, followed by Iraq, China, and Pakistan.
Iran, you have the floor.
Distinguished delegates, the POA on small arms and Li defense remains the only universal consensus framework addressing the illicit trade in small arms and Li defense in all its aspects.
Its continued relevance depends on its balance, effective, and comprehensive implementation at the national, regional and international level.
As a victim of foreign bank terrorism and a country directly affected by organized crime and drug trafficking linked to the illicit trade in small arms and all weapons, Iran attaches great importance to the POA and ITI.
Iran has established the necessary legal and institutional frameworks to combat illicit trafficking and related crimes and has strengthened regional cooperation with neighboring countries.
Since 2003, Iran has submitted 11 national reports, most recently in 2026 detailing these efforts.
By delegation, reaffirms that the charter of the United Nations, in particular, Article 51, upholds the sovereign and inherent right of states to acquire, manufacture, import, export, and retain combional arms for legitimate self defense and security needs.
At the same time, we remain gravely concerned by the continued expansion of the illicit trade in small arms and defense, particularly the cross border trafficking of these weapons, which undermine national security and sovereignty and facilitate terrorism and organized crimes.
As recognized in the POA, effectively addressing this challenge requires tackling the illicit trade in small arms and lots defense from both supply and demand perspective.
In this context, producing and exporting states bear a particular responsibility to strengthen measures aimed at preventing cross border illicit trafficking, including through enhanced efforts to trace and disrupt illicit trafficking routes and networks.
Regarding the outcome document, my delegation wishes to highlight four important elements.
First, reaffirming commitment to international law and the purposes and principles of the charter of the United Nations, including sovereign equality, territorial integrity, non intervention, the peaceful settlement of disputes, and refraining from the threat or use of force.
Second, avoiding the introduction of new elements and terminologies that expand the scope of the POA and ITI.
Third, avoiding references to complementarity between the POA and other instruments and fourth, recording the voluntary nature of the measures contained in the outcome document.
Thank you.
Thank you, Iran, I have Iraq, followed by China, followed by Pakistan.
Iraq, you have the floor.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
At the outset, we would like to congratulate you on assuming the presidency of the BMS nine.
We would also like to align ourselves to the statement of the Arab group, Mr.
Chair.
The phenomenon of the illicit proliferation of small arms and light weapon remains a grave challenge threatening international peace and security.
It leads to intensified armed violence and ignites conflict.
It also has widespread humanitarian, economic and social repercussions.
In this vein, the Secretary-General report contained in document S slash 2025 slash 670 notes that the illicit trade in such weapons diversion and use in illegal ways is the primary factor fueling violence, crimes, and terrorism on the national, regional and international levels.
Therefore, Iraq stresses the importance of promoting multilateralism, intensifying and intensifying international cooperation to effectively implement the POA and ITI.
This would curb the proliferation of small arms and light weapons while addressing their growing repercussions.
On the national level, Iraq continues its effort to combat illicit trade in such weapons while controlling their possession.
We promote relevant legislative and executive measures for most enacting the weapons law number 51 of the year 2017.
The Standing Committee for weapons Control continues its effort to limit the weapons in the hands of the state.
We take the necessary practical measures to curb this phenomenon and promote the monitoring of weapons transfer to support peace and stability in Iraq.
Following 25 years since the adoption of the POA, the challenges related to the proliferation of small and light weapons continue.
Therefore, we have to continue the development of the implementation and monitoring mechanisms, promote international cooperation, and build capacity, especially in developing countries.
Iraq believes that we must take into consideration the differences in the technical capabilities and legal frameworks among countries while addressing technological development in marking and tracing such weapons.
To conclude, Iraq looks forward to adopting a consensual outcome document in support of the POA and the ITI.
We further stress the importance of adhering to the agreed upon mandate pursuant to the POA.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
Thank you, Iraq.
I have China followed by Pakistan, China, you have the floor.
Who is Chair.
The Chinese delegation congratulates you on your election as chair and we will support your work.
China is pleased to note the positive progress achieved by the international community in the implementation of the program of action and the ITI.
China has always supported and participated in global governance of small arms and lead weapons in an active and constructive way and fulfilled its international obligations in earnest.
Chair, control of Sau is both a security issue and an issue of development and governance.
President Xi Jinping of China has put forward the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the global governance Initiative, providing China's solutions for the international community to address the illicit trade in Sao.
Here, China would like to offer three proposals.
First, put mentality first and eliminate the root causes of conflict.
We must firmly uphold multilateralism, leverage the role of the UN as the core platform of global governance, and safeguard the international arms control system with the UN at its core, which should uphold the idea of establishing a community with a shared future uphold the common comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security concept, resolve security dilemmas through dialogue and cooperation, eradicate the breeding ground of extremism and violent conflict through practical measures, and promote economic development and social stability in countries so as to create conditions for fundamentally resolving the issue of cell.
Second, be action oriented and fulfill responsibilities and obligations.
Countries should develop comprehensive and robust domestic regulatory systems and sound and efficient interagency cooperative cooperation mechanisms.
Countries should also adopt responsible arms export policies, earnestly fulfill their respective international obligations, exercise prudence in exporting weapons to conflict regions, and commit not to transfer weapons to non state actors in this regard.
Major arms exporters, especially some major powers, should play a leading role.
In February this year, China released a new version of its military products export control list, further improving its domestic regulatory system, aligning with international rules, and demonstrating China's emphasis on the global process of controlling cell.
Third, keep pace with the times and promote international cooperation.
China advocates technology for good, supports the use of technologies such as AI and big data to help countries enhance regulatory capabilities and opposes the illegal abuse of technologies such as three D printing and modular fires firearms manufacturing.
We look forward to more valuable insights from the technical experts group at this meeting.
We support all parties.
In strengthening exchange and cooperation under the UN framework and calls on capable countries to provide more financial, technical, and intellectual support to the global South, the full version of our statement will be submitted for posting.
Thank you.
Thank you, China.
I have Pakistan, followed by Niger, followed by Colombia, followed by Cuba.
Pakistan, you have the floor.
Thank you, Chair.
The illicit transfer and unchecked use of small arms and light weapons, including the destabilizing accumulation, have a direct impact on intensifying and prolonging conflicts, endangering socioeconomic progress, and undermining the prospects of peace and security, particularly at the regional and sub regional levels.
Small arms and light weapons have emerged as instruments of choice for non state actors to perpetrate violence.
These concerns are further exacerbated by the increasing sophistication of illicit arms and the accessibility of modernized weapons to illegal armed groups that frequently operate across national borders.
Illicit arms thus directly threaten national security, impede counterterrorism operations, and civilian protection.
Pakistan is seriously concerned about the presence of stockpiles of sophisticated arms and ammunition in Afghanistan.
As also noted in the findings of the Secretary-General reports, these weapons pose a direct threat to neighboring countries, including Pakistan.
We urge stronger international efforts to prevent access of illicit arms to armed terrorist groups in Afghanistan and to ensure that the Taliban adhere to their international obligations and commitments in that regard.
Security Council Resolution 2818 of March 2026 also called for, and I quote, regional and international efforts to prevent and address the illicit trade in and destabilizing accumulation of small arms and light weapons and their diversion in Afghanistan and the region.
Chair, we firmly believe that the issue of illicit small arms and light weapons should be addressed comprehensively and in a balanced manner.
The UN program of action strikes a balance between the legitimate security requirements of states and the imperatives to address the issue of illicit arms on both the supply and demand sides.
We remain committed to its implementation at the national level and call for its full implementation at the global level to safeguard and promote international and regional peace and security.
Thank you, Chair.
Thank you, Pakistan.
Niger followed by Colombia, followed by Cuba.
Niger, you have the floor.
Thank you, Mr.
Chairman.
At the outset, if I may, I'd like to congratulate you on the way in which you're steering the work of this BMS nine, the binual meeting of States on the UN POA.
And the ITI as well.
We align ourselves with the statement delivered on behalf of the Africa group.
We would like to make the following remarks in national capacity for Niger.
The illicit trade in South remains one of the main drivers of instability in the Sahel region.
It fuels terrorism, transnational organized crime and conflict, community based violence, as well as violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law, civilians in particular, women, young people, and children, are paying the highest price.
Therefore, we reiterate our commitment to the program of action and the International Tracing Instrument, a key framework for improving tracing and other aspects of the fight against self through our National Commission for the collection and management of illicit Self is doing the work we're working with our customs authorities, with the judiciary and all other relevant stakeholders to improve data collection, tracing tracking, and the fight against the illicit trade in these weapons.
Mr.
Chairman, at the outset, I would like to speak to international capacity building and regional capacity building, especially as regards border control, technical assistance.
The list goes on, no state can go it alone when faced with criminal networks which know no borders.
Second, modular arms, polymer, weapons, and three D printed arms.
These are developments which call for tailored responses, especially as regards the capacity for detection in aa.
Third, women, young people, and civil society need to be involved in national policies aimed at countering the proliferation of self.
This is a priority for our government.
Their participation strengthens prevention, community participation, and peace building.
Therefore, Nigia would like to call for heightened international assistance.
That's also predictable and lasts, especially as regards the chain of custody, the destruction of weapons, and modernization of marketing and tracing systems.
Mr.
Chairman, by way of conclusion, we reaffirm our strong commitment to multilateraalism and all initiatives that aim to prevent, combat, and curb the illicit trade and selve in all of its aspects.
We call for Cooperation in good faith within the framework of our efforts to combat these illicit weapons.
I thank you.
Thank you, Niger.
I have Colombia followed by Cuba, then Luxembourg, Colombia, you have the floor.
Thank you, Chairman.
I'd just like to make the most of this opportunity to applaud you upon your election and wish you every success in the work this week.
Thank you.
Chairman Colombia believes that the review of the implementation of the program of action and of the International Trading instrument must start from a clear reality.
There are still implementation gaps that allow the illicit trafficking of small arms and like weapons to quickly adapt to our responses.
On a global level, the illicit trafficking of small arms and like weapons continues to fuel armed violence, particularly against women and girls and children, transnational organized crime, human trafficking, drug trafficking, and other illicit economies.
Furthermore, arms continue to end up in the hands of minors fueling cycles of violence, weakening the social fabric and eroding the cohesion and development capacities of our communities.
We, Chairman, must not remain indifferent to this reality.
Colombia knows well the effects of this issue, and that's why we recognize the urgency of addressing the availability, the deviation and illicit circulation of these weapons from a comprehensive perspective.
Despite significant regulatory progress, there are still significant challenges in the effective application of these instruments.
The full implementation of these frameworks is not only a political commitment, but rather an essential condition to strengthen security.
Colombia, as a country that's directly affected by these dynamics, has made progress in strengthening its control systems in particular.
We have set forth the module for the tracing of arms, munitions, and explosives.
The Moraf module that enables us to consolidate technical information on seized weapons to support criminal investigations to identify possible trafficking routes, re offending patterns, and cases of deviation, including from state or private arsenals.
However, necessary to recognize that the phenomenon is evolving.
The growing availability of modular weapons, critical components, polymers, and non traditional manufacturing methods is challenging regulatory frameworks that currently exist and reducing the efficacy of traditional control mechanisms.
There's also a The fact that this must be a cross cuttering priority for member states, Chairman, the value of instruments is measured by their real ability to stem deviation and nonviolence.
That's why it's important to move towards a more effective, coherent, measurable, and tailored implementation of these instruments tailored to current realities.
Thank you very much, Chair.
Thank you, Colombia.
I have Cuba, followed by Luxembourg, followed by Togo.
Cuba, you have the floor.
Thank you, Chairman.
Please accept our congratulations upon your election to preside over this ninth biennial meeting of States to consider the implementation of the program of action to prevent combat and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and weapons and all its aspects.
Our congratulations are also extended to the members of the Bureau, to the chairs of the open end technical expert group and the Secretariat.
Thank you all for your work.
We vest our trust in you to successfully deliver a consensus based, inclusive final document that contributes to progress in the universal implementation of the program of action, Chair.
Cuba maintains a firm commitment to the programme of action that's an international benchmark to prevent combat and eliminate the trafficking of small arms and weapons.
We call for its mandate to be fully respected and to be implemented on a global regional and national level.
It's necessary to establish synergies between the program of action and instruments, instruments that do not have international consensus, and will not contribute to progress.
There's also easily manipulable parts that introduce double standards to legitimate defense as well as the rights to manufacture, import, and store small arms and like weapons for countries legitimate defense and security needs.
Given the final document of this biannual meeting, any proposal geared towards establishing national or regional goals must preserve its voluntary nature and bear in mind the capacities, legal frameworks, priorities, and needs that are unique to each country.
In principle, we agree with the goal of paragraph eight B.
Of draft two.
Differences in the nature and manifestation of the trafficking in small arms and like weapons as well as the security capacities of each region show that there's no single formula to address this phenomenon.
We also must recognize differences in the capacities of different states to implement the program and the International Trading instrument.
While the illicit trafficking of small arms and like weapons involves different actors, we must not forget the ultimate responsibility of national governments and the adoption of measures to prevent combat and eliminate this scourge.
In respect of sovereignty of states and relevant international obligations.
That's why we are not in favor of the listing of relevant actors participating in the process, but we must always work towards consensus from a constructive point of view.
On paragraph 24, At 42 and 48 rather, we maintain our conviction that in order to eradicate the illicit trafficking in small arms and le weapons, we do not require new tools that involve more administrative costs for developing countries.
It is essential to address the root socioeconomic causes that bring about these phenomena and to strengthen cooperation.
The speaker's microphone was cut off, say the interpreters.
Thank you very much indeed.
Cuba, I have Luxembourg, followed by Togo, followed by Ghana, Luxembourg, you have the four.
Monsieur President.
Mr.
Chairman, at the outset, I'd like to extend our heartfelt congratulations on your appointment to chair this meeting.
Luxembourg is following very closely the illicit trade in these weapons.
We're constantly bolstering our capacity to respond to the threats and challenges posed by the illicit use of self.
To this end, Luxembourg has overhauled its uh Judicial police.
They now answer to a special section of the judicial police.
We're trying to ensure full arms control systematic tracing and also the provision of scientific assistance in the area of these weapons and ammunition.
We have four strategic priorities, in particular, the overhaul of our IT system and the strengthening of ballistics within the framework of scientific studies in order to heighten the effectiveness of our efforts to combat trafficking and the violence produced by firearms, Luxembourg has systematically ensured DNA tracing inter alia of these seized weapons.
The identification not only of the perpetrators of crimes, but also responsible, those heading up these trafficking networks is also a priority.
Last but not least, we are updating our legislation to ensure proper oversight of certain kinds of organized crime, including firearms trafficking.
On the technical front, Luxemburg is continuing close cooperation with relevant private sector and industry players, especially as regards expertise so as to build our capacity on explosives and firearms, especially as regards ballistics, Lethality analysis, the list goes on.
Turning now to awareness raising, Luxembourg is making available training sessions so that agents can learn about certain kinds of investigations and bolster their knowledge of certain kinds of firearms and the ammunition that goes with them.
In 2022, Luxembourg created a new legal framework Regulating firearms.
Now, this is a strict legal instrument.
Non compliance therewith can result in very heavy criminal penalties.
Moreover, Luxembourg is currently working to set up a specific legal framework for military weapons to build on existing legislation and therefore ensure that control of self.
I thank you.
Thank you, Luxembourg.
I have Togo, followed by Ghana, followed by Surinam.
Togo, you have the floor.
President Chairman, if I may, please allow me to congratulate you, first of all, warmly upon your election to chair this ninth biannual meeting.
The Tc Ese delegation assures you of our full support and our constructive cooperation throughout your work.
We also welcome the election of the chairs of the open ended technical expert group and we express our heartfelt congratulations to them and unwavering support to them in their role, five years after the adoption of the program of action and 21 years after the adoption of the International Tracing Instrument.
Small arms and light weapons continue to be the main vehicle of armed violence in Africa.
They fuel terrorism and violent extremism, transnational organized crime, they extend conflict and hinder humanitarian access and every day claim tragic losses in human lives.
Unfortunately, these are real weapons of mass destruction in Africa.
Togo has come to this an annual meeting with a firm willingness to move from political commitments to concrete and measurable results on the ground.
Our position is in line with the common African position, and it's line on the statement made by the representative of Nigeria on behalf of the African group.
Chairman, Before we present our ssential priorities, it's important for my delegation to underscore the absolute duty incumbent on states to defend their population from growing threats.
This legitimate right enshrined in Article 71 of the charter must not be undermined by the scourge of the illicit trade in SALW that feeds violent terrorism and chaos.
We must work to mercilessly repress the trade in small arms like weapons.
When it comes to our priorities, you can find developments related to this in the statement that we will publish and ultimately, it's the need to consolidate national implementation and then to strengthen marking, registration and traceability of weapons.
We are also calling for relentlessly combating the deviation of weapons, the majority of which come still from official stops, either through, theft or, um, um, other means, and we also call for exploiting the potential of new technology.
Togo insists on equitable access to technology transfer and strengthening the capacities of African countries, and we believe that the technical expert group can play a role here.
By way of conclusion, Chairman, the Togouese delegation will commit constructively to the negotiations on the final document, and we We hope to ensure that through each paragraph, we will achieve more peaceful communities for our coexistence together.
Thank you very much.
Thank you, Togo very much.
Ghana Surinam, followed by Cameroon.
Ghana, you have the floor.
Thank you, Mr.
Chairman.
Distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, Ghana aligns itself with a statement from the African group.
Ghana welcomes the convening of the ninth biannual meeting of states to consider the implementation of the program of action on small arms and light weapons and congratulate you the chairman and members of your group to the Bureau.
Ghana affirms its unwavering commitment to the full and effective implementation of program of action to prevent, combat, and eradicate illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects and the international trading instruments.
Mr.
Chair, Ghana is glad to outline the following efforts to implement the United Nations Program of action.
One, national implementation.
Ghana continues to strengthen it national legal and institutional framework on small arms and ammunition as the draft bill is currently undergoing consideration by the Ministry of the Interior and is set to be passed into law soon.
I move to the second regional cooperation.
The proliferation of small arms and light weapons remains a major threat to peace and security in West Africa, particularly in the Sahel.
Ghana supports ecowas led initiatives, including Ecowas Convention on small arms and light weapons and calls for enhanced cross border cooperation, information sharing, and joint cooperation to disrupt trafficking networks.
Three, international cooperation and assistance.
We appreciate support from bilateral and multilateral partners in capacity building and stockpile management.
However, more targeted assistance is needed for border management, digital tracing systems, and the destruction of stockpile surplus and confiscated firearms as well as obsolete munitions.
Ghana calls for predictable and sustainable funding mechanisms under the UN framework to support efforts, including the upcoming destruction of weapons in Ghana.
Four, emerged issues.
Ghana is considered among Ghana is concerned about the diversion of small arms.
Two, non state actors and the links between illicit arms trafficking and terrorism, organized crime, and illicit financial flows.
We stress the need for gender responsive approaches and the inclusion of youth and women in small arms efforts.
I thank you very much, Mr.
Chairman.
Thank you, Ghana.
I have Cameroon, followed by Turkey, followed by the Philippines and Russian Federation.
Cameroon, you have the floor.
Mr.
President.
Mr.
Chairman, my delegation would like to commend your leadership and your election.
We are speaking as a country committed to combating the trade itself, a scourge which is undermining our societies, leaving people bereaved, meaning this battle is more pressing than ever.
We'd like to draw your attention to four priorities for our collective action.
First, the sea is not a liquid border where our responsibility evaporates.
Every year, entire shipments transit over the sea.
And there are small arms transiting in containers, merchant vessels, in shadow fleets.
Traffickers are exploiting this.
Therefore, we would like to call on the Office of Disarnment Affairs to create a guide for the river police and coast guards.
Second, the ARMs, the IBN and the Arsenal databases run by Interpol are very important.
However, only 40% of member states contribute to it regularly and we know the reasons for this limited Internet connectivity, the language barriers.
The list goes on.
We need to ensure that Interpol assists the least developed countries.
For instance, we could improve for interface interoperability.
We could translate them into the main languages of Africa.
Next, three D polymer weapons mean that it is very difficult to mark weapons.
However, the most pressing challenge are handcrafted weapons.
They are produced locally and according to Unidair, they account for 40% of weapons seized in the Sale and Great Lakes region.
We need to address this particular class of weapons.
Fourth, diversion doesn't begin at the border.
It begins when there are national stockpiles which are not properly guarded.
There is often complicity on the part of law enforcement.
We therefore need to ensure that there's better alignment with the Kinshasa Convention and the Ekowas Declaration.
Mr.
Chairman, my delegation would like to recall that behind every illicit weapon that has not been traced properly, there's a broken life.
We need to ensure that we do not look away in indifference, I thank you.
Thank you, Cameroon.
I have Turkey followed by the Philippines and the Russian Federation, Turkey A, you have the floor.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
I would like to congratulate you on your appointment as the chair.
Turkey appreciates the inclusive and transparent manner in which the preparatory process has been conducted and assures you of my delegation's full support.
The illicit trade and uncontrolled proliferation of small arms and light weapons and their ammunition continue to constitute a serious threat to international peace and security.
These challenges fuel armed violence, terrorism, organized crime, and regional instability, while also undermining socioeconomic development efforts.
Located in a region exposed to multiple interconnected security threats, Turkey remains particularly concerned about the diversion of small arms and allied weapons and ammunition to terrorist organizations.
Preventing such diversion must remain a priority of the international community.
In our view, the outcome document should clearly underline the role of POA in supporting international counterterrorism efforts and contains strong language against diversion of small arms and ied weapons to terrorist actors.
Turkey reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the full and effective implementation of POA and ITI.
We believe these frameworks remain indispensable instruments in addressing evolving challenges related to illicit trafficking.
In this regard, Turkey underlines the importance of strengthening international cooperation, information sharing, and capacity building efforts, including the fields of stockpile management, tracing, marking, and export controls.
We also recognize the growing impact of technological developments on the nature of illicit traffic.
The increasing use of emerging technologies, including II enhanced systems used for detection and tracing, presents both new risks and new opportunities.
We therefore support the continued discussion within the relevant UN frameworks on the implementation of technological developments in manufacturing, design, and trafficking methods.
We welcome the establishment of the open ended technical expert group to assess how technology developments affect the implementation of TPA and ITA and looks forward to its successful outcome.
At the same time, any international efforts in this field should remain state led, consensus based, and fully respectful of the legitimate security concerns and sovereign rights of states.
Turkey considers effective marketing, record keeping, and tracing as core elements of the ITI.
Label records and timely exchange of information are indispensable for identifying diversion points, supporting criminal investigations, and stunting accountability.
Tricky also emphasized the importance of effective national export control systems, prior risk assessments and user assurance in preventing diversion and illicit transfers.
Furthermore, practical cooperation and assistance programs aimed at enhancing national capacities, particularly in regions affected.
Thank you, Turkey.
I have the Philippines followed by Russian Federation, followed by Burkina Faso.
Philippines, you have the floor.
Mr.
Chair, the Philippine comes to this meeting with a clear conviction.
The illicit trade, diversion, and misuse of small arms and light weapons are questions of public safety, accountable governance, border security, community protection, human rights, peace building, and sustainable development.
The Philippine believes that preventing the illicit trade and diversion of small arms and light weapons requires a whole of government, whole of society, and whole of life cycle approach grounded in international cooperation, regional partnership, and practical implementation.
For the Philippines, effective small arms control must cover the full lifecycle of a weapon from manufacturer to final disposal.
Each state carries risk of diversion.
Each state also offers opportunities for prevention, cooperation, and stronger governance.
At the national level, the Philippine continues to strengthen interagency coordination as a foundation for implementation.
Our experience shows that effective small arms control requires sustained cooperation among foreign affairs, law enforcement, custom defense, strategic trade management, border authorities, prosecution services, and other relevant agencies.
It also requires trusted partnership with civil society, communities, academia, and technical experts.
The Philippines support is stronger national legal and administrative frameworks, improved information exchange, and the responsible use of technology to strengthen marking, record keeping, tracing, and diversion detection.
These technological measures must be accompanied by capacity building, institutional development, training, data protection, and sustainable resources.
Mr.
Chair, as the 2026 Chair of Asean, the Philippine attaches importance to regional cooperation as confidence building measure in Southeast Asia, illicit armed flows intersect with terrorism, transnational organized crime, maritime security, borders borders, post conflict transitions, and community level armed violence.
These challenges require cooperation, trust, and shared responsibility.
The Philippines support stronger regional and sub regional coordination, including peer to peer exchanges among customs, police, licensing, border, and regulatory authorities.
We welcome AseyN's continuing work on combating arms and smuggling and encourage closer complementarity between regional initiative and global framework.
In this spirit, the Philippines continues to champion the development of a regional roadmap towards a regional mechanism on weapons regulation in Asia Pacific.
This roadmap seek to translate shared concerns into practical cooperation, improving dialogue among national agencies, strengthening implementation capacity, supporting confidence building measures, and creating pathways for sustained regional coordination on arms and ammunition control.
As BMS nine considered the challenges posed by new development in manufacturing, technology and design, including polymer, modular and treaty printed firearms, the Philippines support practical discussion that help all states strengthen implementation of the I thank the Philippines very much indeed.
I have the Russian Federation, followed by Burkina Faso, followed by Australia, then Germany, Russian Federation, you have the floor.
Who was Mr.
Chairman, distinguished colleagues, the Russian Federation attaches priority importance to the whole host of issues related to the implementation of the UN program of action to prevent combat and eradicate self, as well as the international tracing instrument to identify and trace in a timely and reliable manner self.
We believe that this RevC will be an important milestone as the international community seeks to combat the illicit proliferation of weapons.
We call on colleagues to build on the positive momentum that's been created on combating the illicit trade in self.
Momentum we achieved thanks to the BMS nine and the RevC In 2022 and 2024 respectively.
It's worth noting that a number of important provisions contained in the outcome documents of both the RevC and the BMS were reflected in UNGA resolutions 79 stroke 40 dated 2nd of December 2024 and 80 stroke 38 dated first December 2025.
We stand convinced that the work to bolster the practical benefits stemming from the program of action remain relevant.
This requires us to continue our focused discussions on how to develop effective measures to prevent self being diverted into the illicit trade.
Selv continues to be one of the most frequently used types of weapons and regional and local conflicts, which results in countless human casualties.
Terrorist, criminal, and extremist groups are constantly broadening their illegal self arsenals and enhancing their qualitative parameters.
The uncontrolled proliferation of self is fueled by the fact that in some states and regions there are conflicts which persist as well as gaps and national export control regimes on top of cross border corruption and criminal schemes.
Often, interstate transfers of self result in non state entities getting their hands on them and frequently the supplier focused on profit seeking and other short term considerations, whether they be military, political, or otherwise, or the supplier does not even think about where and to what end the shipment of self they're sending will end up in a shipment subject to export controls, nor do they think about in whose hands they will ultimately fall.
We call for additional measures to be taken, in particular, a universal ban on the transfer of all kinds of self, the transfer of two entities that have not been authorized to receive them by the recipient states.
A whole host of other additional measures must be undertaken and these will be reflected in full in the statement we will deliver.
The speaker's microphone has been cut off.
I thank the Russian Federation.
I have Burkina Faso followed by Australia, followed by Germany.
Burkina Faso, you have the floor.
The delegation of Burkina Fasa would like to congratulate you on your election to chair this ninth biannual meeting.
Mr.
Chairman, in the Sahel region, criminal networks and terrorist groups, as well as cross border trafficking are fueled by the uncontrolled flow of South.
The Confederation of Sahel States and its members are therefore working to combat this illicit trade to break these circuits which are profiting criminals.
In order to do this, we've bolstered our system aimed at combating these types of weapons through our national weapons and ammunition management strategy.
We've bolstered our legal framework, marking and tracing, we've improved stockpiling controls and chain of custody controls.
We've bolstered the capacity of our army and our defense forces.
We are collecting data on and seizing such weapons and this work is ongoing.
We're also raising awareness in communities about the dangers related to small arms and light weapons.
Mr.
Chairman, Burkina Faso, as well as its partners within the framework of the Sed States Confederation is calling for heightened international cooperation underpinned by shared responsibility and solidarity.
To that end, Burkina Faso would like to call for greater technical assistance for countries affected by terrorism, as well as greater cooperation on arms trading In addition to better control over arms transfers, with a view to preventing these being diverted and falling into the hands of terrorism, we call for greater support for the border management and chain of custody programs, chain of custody for seized weapons.
The Conderation of Sahel States believes that it's absolutely necessary to factor in the specific reality of Sahel states when mounting the international response to the scourge.
The fight against these weapons is inextricably linked to the challenge of development, governance, the fight against poverty, as well as the need to tackle humanitarian crises, which are making certain countries, certain populations more vulnerable.
Mr.
Chairman, the Confederation of Sahel States stands convinced that it is only through coordinated, collective and balanced action that we'll be able to reduce the illicit flows of arms and restore peace, security and stability in the Sahel and all over the world.
Therefore.
What's particularly important is ensuring the speaker's microphone has been cut off.
I thank Burkina Faso.
I give the floor to Australia followed by Germany, then Surinam, Australia have the floor.
Thank you, Chair.
Australia remain committed to thwarting the diversion of illicit small arms and live weapons.
The deadly anti Semitic terrorist attack in Sydney in December last year was a national tragedy.
Australia's response has aimed to address the motivation and method behind the attack by strengthening our gun laws and cracking down on hate speech.
Our domestic efforts go hand in hand with global efforts to implement the program of action.
Chair.
UN figures show that in 2024, small arms were responsible for up to 30% of the 48,000 conflict related civilian deaths.
This underscores the challenge before us and UN ODA is finding that 70 to 90% of conflict related sexual violence involves small arms and light weapons demonstrates a particularly tragic dimension to the problems we face in the illicit diversion of small arms and light weapons.
Chair, in addressing the gaps created by technological innovation, while also seizing opportunities technology offers to combat the diversion of small arms and light weapons, it's a critical focus of BMS nine.
We welcome the first open ended technical expert group meetings this week and encourage all states to engage actively.
The rapid spread of three D printed firearms and components is placing untraceable GOT guns into the hands of those with nefarious intent.
These weapons, lacking serial numbers or markings, pose a growing threat that demands collective response.
In Australia, we have acted domestically by criminalizing the possession of blueprints for three D printable weapons.
An example of the forward leaning legislative measures needed to stay ahead of this challenge.
At the same time, technological advances are strengthening our ability to trace weapons.
In Australia, we have successfully applied forensic techniques to recover obliterated markings and reinforce this effort through legislation that criminalizes tampering with firearm identifiers.
Our national firearms identification database provides a critical platform for tracing and we are now leveraging innovations such as smart water technology to track the movement of firearms and ammunition.
Together, these tools demonstrate how we can outpace illicit diversion.
We encourage all states to make full use of the available legislative and technological solutions to meet the evolving threat.
Chair, Australia recognizes that cooperation and assistance at the regional level are essential if flows of illicit weapons are to be disrupted.
We were pleased to participate in the first Asia Pacific UN Fellowship training program in SALW held in Jabalpour, India earlier this year.
We thank and commend UN ODA and the UNR CPD and India for the success of this program.
Thank you.
Thank you, Australia.
I have Germany, followed by Surinum followed by France, followed by Ukraine.
Germany, you have the floor.
Mr.
Chair, let me join previous speakers in congratulating you, Ambassador Larsen, upon your appointment as chair of the ninth BSM.
We thank you and your team for the excellent preparation of this meeting.
My delegation fully aligns itself with a statement to be delivered by the European Union.
I will add the following remarks in our national capacity.
Last year's Secretary-General report to the Security Council once again confirmed that the misuse and illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons remain key drivers of armed violence, increasing regional insecurity, terrorism, and organized crime.
Given its profound consequences for both human security as well as regional stability, it is essential that the challenges emanating from the illicit proliferation of small arms, light weapons and conventional ammunition are discussed in the Security Council at a regular basis.
If elected to the Security Council for the period 2027, 2028, Germany will partner with like minded members to ensure this essential topic remains high on the agenda of the Council.
The POA stands out among international arms control instruments as a cooperative forum focused on identifying the best approaches for a common goal.
Let us maintain this constructive spirit of compromise and make good use of this ninth BSM in order to strengthen its implementation.
It is high time that we can finally start discussing consequences and potential remedies for body systems, illicitly manufactured, craft produced, and three D printed firearms and components, and other challenges in a dedicated technical working group.
Let me convey the appreciation of my government to you, Ambassador Canu, and your team, for your important contribution in organizing and presiding over the upcoming open ended technical expert group sessions.
Mr.
Chair, Germany reserves substantial parts of its national budget for disarmament and arms control for supporting international efforts to address the challenges by the misuse, diversion, and trafficking of small arms and light weapons.
Since several years, Germany is funding dedicated projects implemented by UN institutions, the OSCE, and non governmental organizations with a combined volume of about 50 million euros annually.
Our experience in supporting dedicated project work underlines that self control and preventing diversion is a complex task that requires the involvement of multiple stakeholders, including national self commissions, technical state agencies, multilateral agencies, as well as non governmental implementing partners, academia, research institutions, and manufacturers.
Germany is grateful for the possibility to partner with a diverse range of implementing partners and consequently includes civil society partners in our national delegations to the people.
I'm sorry, Germany.
I will pass the floor, but thank you very much indeed.
Surinam has asked to defer its speaking slot.
I will pass the floor to France, followed by Ukraine, followed by Mozambique, France, you have the floor.
Could we give the speaker to microphone to France, please? Thank you, Mr.
Chairman.
At the outset, I'd like to congratulate you on your appointment to chair this ninth BMS on self.
I would like to commend the high caliber of the preparatory work that was conducted that was transparent and inclusive this over the course of the last few months.
Rest assured you have my delegation's confidence and full support as you discharge your duties.
We welcome the fact that the open ended technical expert group on new technologies will be meeting for the first time.
We would like to extend our encouragement to your colleague, Ambassador Michael Kanu, who will be chairing the group.
Now, this meeting is a very special one.
Our time is limited, but this shouldn't prevent us from being bold.
We appreciate your approach to the outcome document which is going to be succinct and should be able to garner consensus on the provisions contained therein.
Nonetheless, we believe it's important for this outcome document to include the following important points.
First, the document should reiterate our willingness to factor in a gender perspective, taking into consideration the effects of the illicit trade in self on women, men, girls and boys, children, in other words.
This is something we cannot slide back on, no backsliding.
We should also recognize the complementarity of the commitments taken on in the POA and those signed up to by states in other regional and international instruments such as the arms Trade Treaty, the firearms protocol, and the global framework on ammunition.
We could also recognize the role of international institutions such as Interpol and UNODC.
Last but not least, without preempting the outcome of the technical expert group meeting, the final document should also reflect the commitments we already took on at the last review conference as regards various technological and practical developments driven by traffickers.
I'm referring to in particular, modular weapons, polymer weapons, three D printing, which are exacerbating conversion and reactivation of weapons.
Also the sending of components by post.
These challenges come on top of recent developments such as craft production and improvised production.
Craft production is becoming more modern, it's more diversified, driven by online spread of information and know how, in particular on the dark web.
This is undermining existing measures aimed at arms control, and tracing.
It's vital for this issue to remain front and center of our attention.
I thank you.
Thank you, France.
I have Ukraine followed by Mozambique, followed by Belgium, Ukraine, you have the floor.
Mr.
Chair, at the outset, our delegation would like to congratulate you and other members of the Bureau on your election and wish you every success.
Ukraine also wishes to express its appreciation to the chair and to the UN ODA for the excellent preparation of this meeting.
Ukraine aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the European Union.
Our delegation would also like to make some additional remarks in its national capacity.
Illicit trade diversion and misuse of small arms and light weapons remain among the most serious threats to international peace and security.
These weapons continue to fuel armed conflicts, organized crime, terrorism, and violence against civilians across the globe.
For Ukraine, this issue has a particularly acute dimension.
For more than four years, Ukraine has been defending itself against Russia's war of aggression.
The scale and the intensity of the war have created significant challenges for Ukraine related to circulation, accounting, and control of weapons and ammunition.
Despite the circumstances, we have established transparent mechanisms for monitoring the receipt and use of weapons and ammunition received from international partners as part of military assistance provided in order to strengthen country's defense and security capabilities.
Ukraine stresses that all weapons and military equipment received from its international partners are subject to strict control and accountability measures.
And are used exclusively for the exercise of its inherent right of self defense in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter.
The National Police of Ukraine, together with other competent authorities, continues to implement comprehensive measures aimed at preventing and combating illicit trafficking in firearms, ammunition, and explosives.
In this regard, Ukraine introduced a mechanism for the declaration of firearms under conditions of active armed conflict.
The system has enhanced governmental oversight of weapons circulation, encouraged the registration of previously undeclared firearms and contributed to reducing the risks associated with illicit possession and diversion of SOV.
Thanks to coordinated efforts by Ukrainian law enforcement agencies, no cases of illicit transfer of firearms from Ukraine to other countries have been recorded.
Mr.
Chair, Ukraine attaches particular importance to international cooperation in the areas of marketing, record keeping, and tracing, as well as efforts aimed at preventing the diversion of weapons and ammunition.
In this context, Ukraine continues to work closely with international partners, including Interpol, Europol, the EU, OSC, Fex, and neighboring countries to strengthen border security, information exchange, tracing capabilities, and law enforcement cooperation.
The full statement will be uploaded on the UN PA OsoV website.
Thank you.
Thank you, Ukraine.
I have Mozambique, followed by Belgium, followed by Guatemala, followed by Nepal.
Mozambique, you have the full.
Mr.
Chair, Mozambique cons you on your election to preside over this meeting.
We also express our appreciation to U for its preparations.
Mozambique aligns itself with a statement delivered by African group and add these remarks in its national capacity.
For Mozambique, The illicit proliferation and misuse of small arms and deli weapons is not only a disarmament concern, it is a peace, security, and development challenge.
Across Africa, these weapons have become literal weapons of mass destruction.
They are cheap, mobile, and devastating.
They fuel terrorism, organized crime, and intercommunal violence.
They undermine state authority and they divert scarce resource from development, education, health, and climate resilience.
Mozambique north this from experience.
We continue to address legous weapons from our past conflict while confronting terrorism activity in parts of the North.
Our commitment is reflected in the implementation of program of action and the International Tracing Instrument, ratification of the Sadik Firearms Protocol, accession of the Arms Trade Treaty, cooperation through Servco and Interpol and national initiatives such as Operation Russel and the transformation of weapons into a host project.
This biannual meeting should strengthen implementation by prioritizing five areas, secure stockpile management and destruction of surplus weapons, systematic marking record keeping, and tracing of seized arms and ammunition, strong border customs, maritime, and intelligence cooperation.
Practical measures to address illicit digital blueprints and three D printed components and predictable assistance to countries most affected by diversion and armed violence.
Guided by the African Union silencing the Guns Initiative, Mozabique remains committed to a result oriented outcome that turns evidence into prevention, tracing, into accountability, and arms control into sustainable peace and development.
I thank you.
Thank you, Mozambique.
Can I just foreshadow that I plan to adjourn the meeting close to 1:00, 1:00 P.M.
That should give us enough time to hear Belgium, Guatemala, followed by Nepal, and then I propose adjourning, I think.
But Belgium you have the floor.
Thank you very much, Mr.
Chair.
Let me first congratulate you on your election and thank you for the way you conducted our debates during the preparation of this meeting.
Belgium aligns itself with the statement that will be pronounced later by the EU.
Considering the special character of this BMS duty due to the upcoming OETG, the nitial statement will be short and focused on a few important points for Belgium.
First, the language of gender is important for my delegation.
As we always mentioned, the language proposed on gender is the floor and not the ceiling.
Belgium cosponsored the GSAC paper in this regard.
Second, we very much welcome the first session of the OETG.
We hope it will provide a platform for exchanges of a technical nature regarding challenges and opportunities provided by new technologies as well as international cooperation assistance in this domain.
Belgium proposed the working paper with several issues that could be raised during the OTEG on the topic of polymer frame and modular small asllite weapons.
A robust intersectional process will be necessary to cover all the topics and to draft concrete recommendations to be proposed at the WFCON five.
On a side note, I had the opportunity to be a fellow of the European edition of the Sol weapons Fellowship organized by Ioda.
This fellowship was extremely fruitful and very well organized.
I can only recommend participation for interested colleagues.
The working paper produced by Belgium for the OTG is a product of this fellowship.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
Thank you, Belgium, Guatemala, followed by Neal Guatemala, you have the floor.
President Thank you, Chairman.
Guatemala wishes to express its congratulations to you upon your election and to thank you and your team for your stewardship of this ninth biannual meeting of States, as well as for your efforts made to facilitate a balanced, concise, consensus focused document.
The illicit trafficking of arms continues to fuel various manifestations of transnational organized crime affecting the security of our citizens, the rule of law, and sustainable development and this regard the prevention and detection of the deviation of weapons towards non authorized actors in illicit markets as of the utmost importance for Guatemala.
This is why we believe it's particularly valuable that the document recognizes the need to address the deviation of weapons towards non authorized users and illicit markets through measures that cover the entire life cycle of weapons, thus strengthening marking, registration, and tracing provisions, recognizing the challenges and opportunities derived from technological advance in the traceability of small arms and light weapons.
The continuity of technical discussions on these matters will contribute to maintaining the relevance and efficacy of our international instruments to the new realities that states face.
We recognize that technological progress including Modular weapons and additive manufacturing pose new challenges for the implementation of the program of action.
In this regard, it's fundamental to strengthen international cooperation, technical assistance, and the exchange of good practices.
Chairman, Guatemala shares the vision that the fight against the illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons must be addressed from a comprehensive perspective that recognizes its effects on security, sustainable development, the strengthening of institutions and the well being of our citizens.
With this approach, Guatemala has set up a national commission for the prevention of armed violence, which is an interinstitutional body and is multidisciplinary that seeks to root out the root causes of violence with evidence based approaches and to facilitate coordination between the different stakeholders involved.
We believe that experience of this type reflect the value of comprehensive approaches and collaborative approaches that are required to address challenges associated with the illicit deviation of small arms and light weapons.
Finally, we recognize that international cooperation, capacity building, and interinstitutional coordination are essential in order to make sustainable progress.
It is only through a comprehensive approach that includes control, prevention, and development that we will be able to effectively reduce armed violence and its impacts on our societies.
Thank you very much, Chair.
Thank you, Guatemala.
I then pass to Neple.
You have the floor, Napole.
Mr.
Chair, thank you.
I join other delegates in congratulating you on your election and assure you of Nepal's full support for a successful outcome of this meeting.
Mr.
Chair, illicit trade of small arms and light weapons continues to undermine international peace and security, driving armed conflicts, terrorism, and human suffering.
We are concerned that today, emerging technologies are transforming the way these weapons are produced, modified, trafficked, and concealed.
Mr.
Chair, Nepal underscores effective implementation of the program of action and the International Tracing instrument to prevent the diverse and illicit international transfer of SALWs to unauthorized recipients.
We reaffirm the state's primary responsibility for preventing, combating, and eradicating the illicit trade in SALW in all its aspects.
We also recognize the crucial role of governments in implementing robust national legislation, enhancing law enforcement capacities, and ensuring strict control over small arms throughout their life cycle.
Mr.
Chair, Nepal has undertaken a wide range of measures to strengthen its national response to the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, including aligning national laws with the POA and ITI, enforcing strict licensing and posies and controls, prioritizing marking and record keeping, maintaining comprehensive databases, and cooperating closely with Interpol, the World Customs Organization, and neighboring countries to prevent illicit trafficking.
Mr.
Chair, as we move forward, three priorities deserve particular attention.
First, we must strengthen prevention.
This requires stronger national control systems, enhanced border management, secure stockpile management, robust licensing procedures, and effective information sharing among relevant authorities within and across borders.
Second, we must close the technological gap through enhanced capacity building, technological transfer, and predictable financing to help all states effectively implement their obligations.
Third, we must strengthen the nexus between disarmament, development, and peace building.
Investments in education, health, livelihoods, youth, and women empowerment and community engagement is crucial.
We must also continue to raise awareness and promote the exchange of information, expertise, and good practices on the emerging developments in SALW manufacturing.
In this regard, we support the OETEG's upcoming work to tackle the challenges posed by recent developments in SALW.
In conclusion, Mr.
Chair, Nepal remains steadfast to work closely with all partners in creating a safer world free from the threats of illicit small arms.
Thank you.
Thank you, Nale.
As foreshadowed, I will adjourn this session shortly, but I have a couple of practical matters I'd like to bring to colleagues attention.
First of all, we'll resume our conversation in this room at 3:00 P.M.
This afternoon.
But before we continue with delegation interventions, there will be a presentation by the Secretariat at 3:00 P.M.
After we recommence on implementation of the POA and the ITI.
Trends, challenges and opportunities based on national reporting and the study on obliterated markings and methods for marking recovery in the context of the International tracing instrument.
We'll recommence with that presentation from the Secretariat.
Secondly, I have 11 speakers remaining on our list for agenda item seven and to ensure the best use of our time this afternoon, what I would like to do we obviously have plenty of time for all those speakers to contribute, which we'll do after the Secretariat presentation.
Once we've concluded hearing those 11 speakers, I'll proceed with agenda item eight and delegations are therefore encouraged to prepare for the meeting to proceed to agenda item eight this afternoon.
Thirdly, I indicated to you at the outset just to highlight some of the side events that are going to take place, particularly over this lunchtime period.
There are three that I'm aware of.
The first is in relation to the Small arms and Light weapons fellowship training program hosted by UNODA that will be in committee room six at 1:15.
The second is hosted by Transparency International, the European Union, and the government of the Netherlands under the radar corruptions role in fueling arms diversion that will be hosted at the permanent mission of the Netherlands at 1:15.
And thirdly, a number of state members of Carcom hosting an event on shared security in the Western Hemisphere regional, hemispheric and international cooperation to disrupt the illicit firearms trafficking and prevent diversion in the Caribbean.
That will be in committee room A again at 1:15.
So can I thank all of you for your contributions this morning? Thank you for being so disciplined in terms of time and very much looking forward to regrouping at 3:00 P.M.
Sharp, and we will commence at 3:00 P.M.
Sharp this afternoon following the lunch break.
Thank you very much, indeed.
We are adjourned.
Okay.