Statement by Lithuania at the UN General Assembly 1st Committee thematic discussion on Other Weapons of Mass Destruction
Mr. Chair, Extensive Lithuanian position on other Weapons of Mass Destructive was fully reflected in the European Union statement delivered yesterday. I would like to highlight few additional aspects of particular importance to my country. Mr. Chair, Lithuania continues to emphasize the need to address the challenges resulting from the waste of see-dumped chemical munition. Therefore in the margins of the Second committee Lithuania is submitting an updated draft resolution on Cooperative measures to assess and increase awareness of environmental effects related to waste originating from chemical munitions dumped at sea. The ultimate goal of the resolution remains the facilitation of voluntary sharing of historic and scientific information, exchange of best practices, increased voluntary cooperation among Member States and contribution to the global debate on this issue.
Mr. Chair,
My country is extremely concerned by the proliferation of the weapons of mass destruction to states as well as the non-state actors and terrorist groups.
We take note of the declaration of destruction of the chemical weapons by the Syrian Arab Republic, but we remain concerned over irregularities and discrepancies in the reporting and the allegations of a continued use of chemical weapons. These circumstances, including latest instances of chlorine attacks, are calling for a strong action, and while the attribution of responsibility is an important step, it cannot be the last, and the perpertrators of such atrocious acts must be brought to justice.
Mr. Chair,
Lithuania considers that export control mechanisms provide effective and viable ways to ensure non-proliferation. In this respect, the Australia Group and the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) continue to have leading roles in export control field. We are convinced that expanded membership in those mechanisms would further reinforce the efficiency of export control and contribute to the strengthening of the regimes internationally. In this respect, last year Lithuania re-submitted its application to become a full member the Missile Technology Control Regime.
I thank you.
