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New York UN

SINGAPORE’S EXPLANATION OF VOTE AFTER THE VOTE ON A/C.1/78/L.55 ON “FURTHER PRACTICAL MEASURES FOR THE PREVENTION OF AN ARMS RACE IN OUTER SPACE” AND A/C.1/78/L.15 “REDUCING SPACE THREATS THROUGH NORMS, RULES AND PRINCIPLES OF RESPONSIBLE BEHAVIOURS” AT THE FIRST COMMITTEE, 78TH UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY, 31 OCTOBER 2023

31 October 2023

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Thank you, Mr Chairman.


Singapore recognises the importance of preserving outer space as a peaceful environment for the conduct of space activities, and as a global commons that is accessible and beneficial to all humankind. We have consistently supported the resolutions and relevant decisions on “Further practical measures for the prevention of an arms race in outer space” as well as “Reducing space threats through norms, rules and principles of responsible behaviours”. We also participated actively in the Open-Ended Working Group on Reducing Space Threats which just concluded in August this year, and regret that the OEWG was unable to adopt an outcome document by consensus.


2 Singapore supports practical approaches towards a common framework for outer space security, such as the development of norms of responsible behaviours and measures to prevent the threat or use of force in outer space. Singapore is also open to the possibility of a legally-binding instrument in the future, to strengthen the application of international law in outer space. While we have voted in favour of both draft resolutions L.15 and L.55 and their respective operative paragraphs establishing OEWGs given the need to continue discussions on outer space security in an open and inclusive format, Singapore remains deeply concerned by the establishment of parallel processes on this important topic. The creation of parallel OEWGs leads to duplication, inefficiencies, and fragmentation of discussions on outer space security and places a particular strain on small states with limited resources. Like other member states, Singapore calls for efforts towards an eventual single-track mechanism that can integrate different approaches and views to move forward constructively on outer space discussions.


3 Our multilateral cooperative mechanisms must be used as they were intended – to promote engagement, not division. Singapore reaffirms our commitment to working with all Member States to preserve outer space as a peaceful global commons.


4 Thank you.


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