Chair,

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

Outer space remains one of the most dynamic domains and is becoming one of the foundational pillars for all aspects of our common civilization. Therefore, maintaning stability and avoiding escalation in outer space is an absolute priority for Germany.

Since we last met in this committee, states and private actors have made important achievements in their space programs, including on launch capabilities, reusability, and satellite systems for both civilian and military purposes. It is clear, that the trend towards increasing counterspace capabilities continues, as well.

Against the backdrop of these developments it is all the more imperative to drive forward our work on identifying measures to reduce risks and preserve stability in as well as access to outer space for all. For this reason, Germay remains firmly committed to the Open-Ended Working Group on the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space in all its aspects with its mandate laid out in decision 79/512. Germany firmly stands behind its comprehensive approach, combining binding and non-binding measures, addressing both capabilities as well as behaviors in outer space.

We welcome the progress made in this year’s sessions under the able stewardship of Ambassador Carlos Foradori of Argentina, where states discussed their respective threat perceptions, made concrete proposals and identified potential common ground. We forward to the Chair’s briefing tomorrow. We call on all states to continue this important work and to refrain from undermining the inclusive mandate of the group, that brings together all proposed approaches.

We particularly welcome discussions on the commitment to not conduct destructive direct-ascent anti-satellite missile tests and would like to reiterate our call to all states that haven’t done so to join this commitment.

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 and let us come together in a cooperative spirit to preserve the benefits of space for all nations.

Thank you.