Thank you, Mr. President.

At the outset, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Greece for organizing this timely event.
Germany fully aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union.
I would like to add additional points reflections at national capacity.

Mr President,

Germany is deeply convinced that maritime security is fundamental to global stability, and a prerequisite for economic prosperity.

Disruptions to maritime routes pose a direct threat to global supply chains, including of critical minerals, food and energy.

I may add: this is also increasingly affecting Europe, where maritime security in the Baltic Sea has gained additional importance in light of the current threat environment, which is only getting more complex and more challenging.

In order to tackle these global challenges to maritime security, Germany remains a steadfast supporter of strengthened international cooperation.

In the Red Sea, we contribute to the protection of shipping within the framework of EU operation EUNAVFOR ASPIDES.

In the Mediterranean, we are engaged in UNIFIL as lead nation for the Maritime Task Force and within the EU operation EUNAVFOR MED IRINI.

In the Gulf of Guinea, we support regional cooperation of the coastal states of West and Central Africa, in the framework of the “G7++ Friends of the Gulf of Guinea” Group particularly the implementation of the “Yaoundé Code of Conduct”. We are committed to assist our partners in the region in translating the Yaoundé Code into a binding document. In this context we have also supported the training of port personnel to ensure the safety and security of ports as well as of shipping.

Mr. President,

Looking ahead, I want to make two short points.

First, we would welcome if the Security Council could engage on the topic of maritime security on a more regular basis. We believe those discussions should focus on maritime security in specific geographic regions as well as on thematic issues, such as climate change and maritime security, hybrid maritime threats, and vital sea lanes.

Second and lastly, Germany firmly believes that maritime security and international law are closely intertwined. Our oceans will only become a more secure place if we have rules in place, and if we all apply to the rules and implement them. This is the reason why Germany – also as host country of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea – will stay firmly committed to a free, open, and secure maritime domain based on international law, as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

And we want to see the Security Council as a strong supporter in this regard.

I thank you.