STATEMENT BY MR NATHANIEL KHNG, MINISTER-COUNSELLOR (LEGAL), PERMANENT MISSION OF THE REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE TO THE UNITED NATIONS, ON AGENDA ITEM 82, ON DIPLOMATIC PROTECTION, SIXTH COMMITTEE, 23 OCTOBER 2025

Mr Chairperson, 

1        Singapore acknowledges the significant and valuable contribution of the International Law Commission’s work on the articles on diplomatic protection and the accompanying commentaries to the ongoing discourse on the topic of diplomatic protection.  Insofar as some aspects of the articles reflect State practice and are consistent with customary international law, the articles provide welcome clarity on the state of the law. 

2        My delegation is of the view that any legal framework on diplomatic protection must ultimately be constructed on the basis of international consensus.  We note that several States continue to have reservations over the elaboration of a convention based on the articles.  There are also aspects of the articles that demonstrate progressive development of the law, and these would be a useful springboard for States to continue dialogue on this topic. 

3        As many other delegations have noted, this topic is closely tied to the topic of State responsibility for internationally wrongful acts.  There is therefore utility that any future action on this topic should track the developments on that topic.  

4        Thank you for your attention.