Statement delivered by Ms Emelie Roos, First Secretary.
Madam President,
Sweden aligns itself fully with the statement delivered by the European Union, and would like to add a few remarks in a national capacity.
First, we reaffirm Sweden’s strong commitment to the Arms Trade Treaty. The Treaty remains fundamental to international efforts to establish common standards for the arms trade and to prevent and eradicate the illicit trade in conventional arms and prevent their diversion.
Sweden attaches particular importance to halting the decline in reporting rates. Transparency is a legal obligation under the Treaty and vital to building confidence among States Parties. We encourage all Parties to meet their reporting obligations, and we stand ready to support initiatives that facilitate reporting.
Additionally, the financial situation of the Treaty is a concern. Sweden urges all States Parties to meet their financial commitments in full and on time.
We also underline the importance of strengthening gender perspectives in the ATT context. A gender-responsive approach to arms control, including the prevention of gender-based violence, is essential to achieving the Treaty’s object and purpose.
Finally, Sweden sees merit in enhancing the engagement of industry and welcomes opportunities for dialogue and cooperation with the private sector, which has a crucial role in ensuring effective export controls and preventing diversion. We also support the call for the standing working groups to place stronger emphasis on practical implementation issues, including inter-agency cooperation and the responsibilities of exporting States.
Madam President,
Sweden will continue to support the ATT community in universalising and effectively implementing the Treaty, while recalling that decisions on export controls and licensing remain a national responsibility under international law.
Thank you.
