Explanation of Vote of the Islamic Republic of Iran

On Draft Resolution L.55: “Promoting International Cooperation on Peaceful Uses in the Context of International Security”

Before the 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 make a general statement regarding the draft resolution on “Promoting International Cooperation on Peaceful Uses in the Context of International Security” as contained in document L.55.

My delegation appreciates and strongly supports the Chinese delegation's initiative at the First Committee to promote international collaboration on peaceful uses.

In fact, a globally accepted norm is to ensure that all countries have the right to participate in the greatest possible exchange of equipment, materials, science, and technology for peaceful purposes.

But unfortunately, as proven by the operation of numerous export control regimes established by small groupings of countries over the last decades, the track record of putting this theory into effect is far from perfect. Undue restrictions on non-proliferation or national security grounds, contrary to international obligations and treaties, based on selective and discriminatory approaches, some of which have been exaggerated or even completely false, have greatly impeded genuine exchanges in science and technology for peaceful purposes. This situation has heightened tensions between countries and expanded the scientific and technology divide between developed and developing countries. The UCMs imposed by the USA is just an example in this regard which do hamper the development of targeted countries.

 As illustrated by China, the purpose of this draft proposal is to emphasize the importance and urgency of all member states fully exercising their legitimate rights to peaceful uses of science and technology, as well as to initiate a UN discussion process to facilitate international cooperation on peaceful uses of science and technology.

Iran strongly supports the premise underlying this proposal and believes that future editions will take into account and reflect the views of the great majority of the world. Along with non-proliferation concerns, my delegation emphasizes that the sheer existence and advancement of WMDs pose a threat to international peace and security.

I thank you, Mr. Chair!