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New York UN
OTHERS

STATEMENT BY SINGAPORE ON BEHALF OF THE ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHEAST ASIAN NATIONS (ASEAN) AT THE THEMATIC DEBATE ON CLUSTER 7: DISARMAMENT MACHINERY OF THE FIRST COMMITTEE, 81ST SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY 26 OCTOBER 2026

26 October 2026

A concise summary of the main points regarding this article.

Mr Chair,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the eleven members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). ASEAN aligns itself with the statement delivered by Indonesia on behalf of NAM.

2             As we face heightened geopolitical tensions and deepening mistrust in the international arena, multilateral cooperation in the field of disarmament and non-proliferation is more critical than ever. ASEAN acknowledges the contributions of the UN disarmament machinery, which has produced important treaties, instruments and processes over the years. At the same time, against the backdrop of a weakening disarmament and non-proliferation architecture, it is imperative that we ensure the continued relevance, credibility and adaptability of this machinery. These challenges should spur us to make concrete progress on disarmament, through continued dialogue and engagement in good faith. This is particularly relevant to the First Committee, which ASEAN recognises as the most inclusive platform for discussions on disarmament and international security.

3             ASEAN reiterates its concern over the declining commitment and cooperation in global disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control mechanisms. We call on all countries, especially the Nuclear-Weapon States, to maintain and fully implement their obligations and commitments under these mechanisms, including the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). ASEAN calls on the NWS to fulfil their obligations in advancing nuclear disarmament in accordance with Article VI of the NPT, and to recognise the need to completely eliminate nuclear weapons, which remains the only way to guarantee that nuclear weapons are never used again under any circumstances. ASEAN regrets that despite sustained efforts, the 11th NPT Review Conference was not able to adopt a consensus Final Outcome Document. We commend the role of Viet Nam as the President of the Review Conference for its leadership in promoting inclusive consultations and transparency with a view to achieving consensus during the Conference.

4             The Conference on Disarmament has an important role in pursuing substantive negotiations in key areas of disarmament. ASEAN is concerned by the deadlock on the programme of work in the Conference on Disarmament, which has persisted for over two decades. ASEAN regrets that the Conference was unable to agree on a programme of work this year, which prevented the re-establishment of its subsidiary bodies. ASEAN calls upon the Conference on Disarmament to further intensify consultations and make progress in the adoption and implementation of a balanced and comprehensive programme of work.

5             ASEAN also believes that the UN Disarmament Commission (UNDC), with its universal membership, retains a unique role in building trust and confidence among Member States on various issues in the disarmament sphere. ASEAN regrets that the UNDC could not reach a consensus on adopting the provisional agenda this year – noting especially that this year marks the closing cycle of the UNDC for 2024 – 2026. ASEAN looks forward to supporting and actively engaging in the UNDC during its 2027 session.

Mr Chair,

6             In the Asia-Pacific region, the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) is a vital platform for dialogue and cooperation on political and security issues of common concern. ASEAN welcomes the convening of the 17th ARF Inter-Sessional Meeting on Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (ARF ISM on NPD), co-chaired by the Philippines, Australia and New Zealand in April 2026. We further welcome the adoption of the ARF Manila Plan of Action (2026 – 2036) at the 33rd ARF in July 2026 and look forward to its implementation.

7          ASEAN emphasises that the disarmament machinery should keep pace with the rapidly evolving security landscape and advancements in science and technology, including developments in cyberspace and outer space. We should also strive to prevent duplicative processes, optimise resources, and pursue inclusive avenues for deliberations among Member States.

8          ASEAN reaffirms its support for the UN Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Asia and the Pacific (UNRCPD). More broadly, ASEAN acknowledges the value of a multi-stakeholder approach in our work. We promote a culture of peace and dialogue, including through the Youth, Peace and Security and Women, Peace, and Security agendas. We welcome sustained engagement with civil society, the private sector and academia, whose perspectives may enrich and complement States’ discussions. In this regard, we appreciate the role of think-tanks and research bodies, such as the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), and welcome their contributions to strengthening the disarmament agenda in the region. 

9             In closing, ASEAN reiterates its strong commitment to working constructively with all Member States and stakeholders in advancing international peace and security, including through the present session of the First Committee.

10        Thank you.