Statement by Sweden in the General Debate.
Mr President,
At the outset, let me start by thanking the UK Presidency for your thorough preparation of this Tenth Meeting of States Parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions. I can assure you of the full support from the Swedish delegation. We also commend the staff of the ISU and all others involved in preparing this meeting for their tireless efforts.
Sweden stands fully by the statement [to be] delivered by the European Union. Allow me to make a few additional remarks in a national capacity.
Mr President,
Sweden is deeply concerned about reports on the use of cluster munitions in different parts of the world. As a State Party to the Convention, Sweden condemns any use of cluster munitions by any actor. We urge all actors to strictly observe International Humanitarian Law and to refrain from using this inhumane weapon.
Like others, we are appalled by credible reports on the use of cluster munitions by Russia affecting civilian populations in Ukraine. Sweden strongly condemns Russia’s unjustifiable, unprovoked and illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. We call on Russia to immediately cease its illegal use of force against Ukraine, and to immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all its troops and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders.
Mr President,
For the ban on cluster munitions to become effective, it is important that the world’s largest manufacturers and users of cluster munitions join the Convention. Realizing full universalization remains the biggest challenge for us as States Parties.
We must also ensure that the Convention is fully and effectively implemented. As a member of the Coordination Committee, we are happy to have been able to contribute to this work. In this regard, we would like to thank Guyana for excellent collaboration as co-coordinator for Clearance and Risk Education.
We are also grateful to the Implementation Support Unit for all their support. Therefore, let me reiterate the importance of ensuring sufficient funding for their work. This year, Sweden intends to make a voluntary contribution to the ISU amounting to 250 000 Swedish crowns, approximately 25 000 Swiss Francs, which also covers our mandatory contribution to the ISU. Sweden calls on all States Parties to pay their assessed contributions to the ISU, as well as their shares of the Convention’s budget, in full and on time.
Mr President,
Sweden’s commitment to international cooperation and assistance remains strong. Last year, Sweden contributed with over 139 million Swedish crowns to Mine Action, including efforts specifically targeting cluster munitions. Our joint efforts remain crucial for international peace and security, as well as for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
On a final note, let me reiterate that it is Sweden’s solid conviction that applying a gender perspective in all aspects of arms control, non-proliferation and disarmament will help improve the functioning of our collective work, while also strengthen international peace and security. Therefore, we look forward to working together on further mainstreaming gender and diversity aspects in the implementation of the Convention.
Thank you.