Statement by H.E. Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Permanent Representative of Guyana to the UN, in Explanation of Position After the Vote on Resolution on Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space (PAROS) and Outer Space Security

Mr. President,

Guyana voted in favour of the draft resolution titled “the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space (PAROS) and Outer Space Security" presented by the Russian Federation. We supported the draft resolution as it is consistent with our positions on General Assembly resolution 78/ 238 and draft Security Council resolution S/2024/302, which was presented by Japan and the United States less than a month ago on the Prevention of Nuclear Weapons in Outer Space, but unfortunately was not adopted due to Russia’s veto.

As a nation committed to the equitable and peaceful use of outer space, we recognize the importance of this draft resolution’s call for space to be free from all weapons. The prospect of weaponizing this domain poses a grave threat not only to global security but also to the future of humanity's shared heritage in space. In this regard, we believe the draft text which was not adopted could have contributed to averting this grave threat.

Guyana underscores that outer space must remain free of all weapons, including weapons of mass destruction.  It is crucial that we safeguard this shared global common from the scourge of arms races, which can only exacerbate the threats to our collective security and hinder our development agendas.

Mr. President,

Guyana reiterates the importance of nuclear-weapon States upholding their international obligations and committing to not place nuclear weapons in outer space. We also reiterate our commitment to supporting efforts that guarantee the right of all countries to benefit equitably from the peaceful use of outer space.

I thank you.