Mr. Chair,

Germany aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union.

Space infrastructure is the backbone of modern and connected societies, but it is also their Achilles’ tendon. Rising tensions on Earth and the accelerating build up of counter space capabilities put this fragile environment increasingly at risk. With ever more reliance on space-based services, the potential hazardous consequences of an escalation in space or against space-related services would be catastrophic. At the same time, the probability of such an escalation is rising – at least, as long as we don’t take meaningful action to reduce these risks.

Mr. Chair,

No one can deny that preventing an arms race in outer space has become more and more of an uphill battle. Destructive anti-satellite missile tests have produced significant amounts of debris. Countries that advocate against what they call ”weaponization“ of space develop, test, and deploy capabilities to destroy, blind, dazzle, or manipulate satellites.

Yet, progress is possible. Last year’s merger decision 79/512 created the OEWG on PAROS, which took up its work with the first substantive session in July. This was a significant step in the right direction. Germany firmly stands behind the comprehensive approach clearly laid out in the decision, combining binding and non-binding measures, addressing both capabilities as well as responsible behaviors in outer space. The commitment by a growing number of states, including all EU Member States, not to conduct destructive direct-ascent anti-satellite missile tests is a good example of responsible state behavior and has a direct impact on outer space security. We call upon States not to undermine the work and progress of the OEWG.

I take the opportunity to thank once again the Chair of the OEWG, Ambassador Carlos Foradori, for his outstanding work and the report presented earlier today.

Furthermore, we share many countries’ great concern over the possible deployment of a nuclear weapon in space by Russia. If this were to happen, it would be a clear violation of the Outer Space Treaty with potentially catastrophic consequences. The development alone of such a system goes against the expressed will of a vast majority of member states.

Chair,

At the UN we come together from all parts of the world, crossing oceans, mountains, and borders. In outer space there are no borders. We are all direct neighbors. Let’s keep this in mind as we come together in a cooperative spirit to preserve the benefits of space for all nations.

Thank you.