Explanation of Vote of the Islamic Republic of Iran
On Draft Resolution L.52:
“Reducing space threats through norms, rules and principles of responsible behaviors”
First Committee, UNGA 76
New York, 1 November 2021
In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful.
Mr. Chairman,
I have taken the floor to explain the position of my delegation on draft resolution L.52 entitled “Reducing space threats through norms, rules and principles of responsible behaviors”.
In fact, some years back, the possibility of an arms race in outer space was just a potential risk. Now, it has become a real and serious threat. To cope with the threat of militarization of outer space, discussions and the development of a legally binding instrument specifically related to PAROS are especially necessary. The 1967 Outer Space Treaty is not enough to make outer space a safer place simply because it does not mention or address other types of weapons and military activities.
It is our principled position that, on one hand, outer space is a human’s common heritage that should be protected against any attempt to weaponize or witness an arms race in this area. On the other hand, setting certain and tangible measures to promote and facilitate international cooperation through the transfer of technical knowledge, technology and the required equipment is imperative. Besides transparency and confidence-building measures which are complementary to each other, the monopoly of a few countries or imposing any restriction on the transfer of space-related science, expertise, technology, and services to developing countries should be rejected.
In comparison to the previous year's resolution, the draft is extremely ambitious. The resolution was passed by vote last year, with 12 Member States voting against it and 8 others abstaining. Some of these countries are among the most advanced spacefaring nations. This shows that there are differing viewpoints on the fundamental concepts and topics surrounding the politicized term "responsible behavior," as well as the resolution's substance.
The proposal to establish an OEWG with almost deliberative functions could have ramifications not only for the CD's work agenda, including PAROS, but also for the establishment of a negotiating committee to develop a legally binding instrument, as proposed by China and Russia in the PPWT.
Having said that, Iran will vote against draft resolution L.52 and calls upon the delegations from the developing countries to accompany us in voting against this draft resolution. From our point of view, not only does it fail to reflect the above said principles but also tries to set preconditions in enjoying outer space and satellite technology for peaceful purposes. Any pretext to prevent developing countries from entering spacefaring nations is rejected. We are of the view that the adoption of such a draft could lead us to a divisive situation where UN member states would be forced to split into the so-called ‘responsible’ versus ‘irresponsible’ states. This situation is completely unacceptable. Furthermore, the draft overlaps with the COPUS and the Fourth Committee Agenda, which should be avoided. Last, but not least, if there is a genuine intention to contribute to a safe and secure outer space, we should start from the negotiation of a legally binding instrument.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.