Statement by Mr John Tilemann, International Security Division, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the Preparatory Committee for the United Nations Conference on the Arms Trade Treaty, as delivered 15 July 2010.
(as delivered)
Mr Chair
The Australian delegation thanks you for the opportunity to express our views on the draft paper on principles which you kindly circulated at the close of yesterday’s session.
We would like to reiterate our appreciation for the work you have done to translate the useful and substantive discussions of the last few days to a tangible document.
Indeed, in our view, the draft paper on principles has all the elements of a draft preamble, and will undoubtedly assist in moving our discussions forward.
Our comments should be understood as preliminary, and we may supplement them as discussions progress.
Australia is in general agreement with the draft paper on principles, and the following comments should be understood against this background. We note also that at this stage we are not negotiating text – rather sharing ideas.
Regarding paragraph 6, we suggest that it should be noted that the rights of all States to manufacture, import, export, transfer and retain conventional arms must be exercised in accordance with international law.
Regarding paragraph 8, we agree with the reference to United Nations Security Council decisions, but suggest that Security Council sanctions be mentioned specifically. Such sanctions form the basis of arms embargoes, and are binding on all Member States.
Regarding paragraph 10, we agree the importance of international, regional and sub-regional initiatives, but suggest that the paragraph specify that the reference is to arms transfer initiatives.
Regarding paragraph 11, concerning the level of international support for an arms trade treaty we would suggest that if there was support for such a reference it would be preferable that it be expressed in more historically neutral terms.
Regarding paragraph 16, Australia appreciates the intent of this paragraph, but note that it contains a number of concepts which might be better set out separately in the paper.
Regarding the last three paragraphs (paragraphs 17, 18 and 19), Australia considers that these paragraphs are essential in underlining the primary responsibility of States to regulate arms transfers. The formulations in these paragraphs need in our view to be given further consideration to ensure the key points are framed in strong and clear terms.
Of course Australia remains flexible on the exact terms of this draft paper, and is looking forward to participating in further discussions.
Thank you, Mr Chair.