Statement delivered by Ms. Neishanta Benn, Minister Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Guyana to the United Nations, during Security Council Briefing on Non-proliferation (Iran)

Thank you, Mr. President,

I thank Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo, Ambassador Lambrinidis and Ambassador Frazier for their briefings. I also welcome the participation of the Representatives of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Federal Republic of Germany in this meeting.

Guyana acknowledges the eighteenth report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of Security Council resolution 2231 (2015). We note with concern that “the regional context surrounding the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA) has further deteriorated”.

We also take note of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA’s) report of 19 November 2024, in which the Agency continues to highlight its difficulties in performing JCPOA-related verification and monitoring and providing assurances of the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme. We noted also the concerns about the production and accumulation of high enriched uranium by Iran, that have exceeded the limit stipulated in the Plan.

Mr. President,

While noting the concerns of the Secretary-General and IAEA, we also observed one important point of convergence by Participants to the Plan. In letters sent by the E3 (France, Germany and the United Kingdom) and by Iran on 27 November and 2 December 2024, respectively, both expressed commitment to diplomacy. Additionally, we noted Iran’s decision to consider the acceptance of the designation of four additional experienced inspectors. Guyana believes that these are positive indications which should be capitalized upon to find a sustainable path forward.

Guyana also reaffirms its belief that full implementation of the Plan and resolution are critical for promoting peace and security in the region and for confidence-building. We stress that it is imperative in a time when the region is gripped by growing insecurity and instability, as well as increasing mistrust between and amongst countries.

We must remember the basis under which the Plan was negotiated – cooperation and diplomacy. These two key principles remain valid and are even more necessary in the current context. In this regard, Guyana once again urges all concerned parties to return to the Plan. We also call on Iran to re-commit to its nuclear-related commitments under the Plan.

Mr. President,

Guyana continues to underscore and support the vital efforts of the Security Council, the Secretary-General, the IAEA and the Joint Commission’s Procurement Channel in facilitating the implementation of the resolution and Plan.  I would also like to express my gratitude to Malta as Facilitator for their commitment and efforts in promoting the implementation of resolution 2231 over the past two years on the Council.  

In conclusion, Guyana remains hopeful that there could be movement towards implementation of the JCPoA before the expiration of resolution 2231 in October 2025. We reiterate our calls for all participants to the Plan to engage in dialogue and diplomacy to this end. We also reiterate our commitment to a world-free of nuclear weapons, which is only possible through their total elimination. 

I thank you.