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Statement by the Republic of Lithuania at the UN Security Council High-Level Open Debate "Emerging technologies and maritime security" on Thursday, 29 October, 2026.

Mr. President,

At the outset I would like to thank Greek Presidency for opening this important debate to wider membership. Lithuania aligns with the EU statement, and I will deliver additional remarks in the national capacity.

In maritime domain today we are faced with two intertwining challenges: the importance of handling emerging new technologies and addressing energy and food insecurity - both used to pursue aggression and disruption of world supply chains.

We witness that in the Strait of Hormuz, the Black and Red seas.

Also in the Baltic and North Seas, where illegal shadow fleet operating in support of Russia’s war machine poses great threat to navigational safety, critical undersea infrastructure, and the marine environment.

Critical systems – such as the Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) - are increasingly targeted.  Originating from Russia, GNSS interference in European waters, particularly in the Baltic Sea, places all vessels at risk.

Mr. President,

First and foremost, we must stand in unity against all aggression or terror, be it Hormuz Strait, Black Sea or Bab al-Mandab Strait.

I would like to express our solidarity with Romania and Bulgaria in the light of recent attacks against their vessels.

Any ceasefire needs to include maritime infrastructure and shipping lanes.

Also, the relevant decisions, including the UN Security Council resolutions, need to be implemented in Hormuz and the Red Sea.

Secondly, all States must recommit to the principles of the UN Charter and uphold their obligations under international law, including the law of the sea

Thirdly, the International Maritime Organization should advance existing measures by strengthening oversight of shadow fleets.

Such fleets are operating to circumvent sanction regimes, usually under the false or unknown flags and in violation of the international maritime law.   

Mr. President,

The freedom of navigation, as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, must be respected by all states. This principle cannot be invoked to conceal conduct that threatens maritime safety or undermines international law.

Lithuania calls to address these threats by enhanced information-sharing, stronger coordination, and sustained international cooperation.

I thank you.