Statement by Sri Lanka : First Committee – Cluster 5 – Other Disarmament Measures and International Security
80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly: 27 October 2025
Mr. Chair,
Sri Lanka aligns itself with the statement delivered by Indonesia on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. I wish to add the following observations in my national capacity.
Mr. Chair,
Disarmament matters in the 21st century are increasingly shaped by rapid technological change. The military applications of artificial intelligence and the emergence of autonomous weapons systems already pose significant challenges to us legally and ethically. The international community must adapt to these new realities while firmly upholding the core principles of the UN Charter, respect for international law, and the sovereign equality of States.
The security of cyberspace has likewise become indispensable. We welcome the progress achieved within the Open-Ended Working Group on the Security of and in the Use of ICTs, which was the only inclusive mechanism established on the basis of consensus to address these issues. Subsequent to the conclusion of the OEWG in 2025, Sri Lanka supports the transition to a single-track, state-led, permanent mechanism under the auspices of the United Nations to elaborate on this manner. Such a framework must ensure the equal participation of all States, provide capacity building to developing countries, and preserve cyberspace for peaceful purposes and development.
Mr. Chair,
On Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems, Sri Lanka commends the work of the Group of Governmental Experts under the CCW and the Secretary-General’s report compiling Member States’ views.
We join the many voices calling for negotiations on a legally binding instrument on LAWS. Sri Lanka is pleased to sponsor the resolution on this issue, and stresses that the informal consultations it establishes should complement the GGE, while also providing space to consider broader dimensions of autonomy in weapons beyond the context of armed conflict.
On Artificial Intelligence (AI) more broadly, Sri Lanka underlines the need for inclusive and non-discriminatory frameworks to govern its military applications. Such measures must not restrict equitable access to AI for peaceful purposes. AI technologies can be a powerful tool in achieving sustainable development; frameworks should help ensure that all States, especially developing countries, can harness these technologies for the benefit of their citizens. International cooperation, capacity building, and technology transfer are essential to bridging the gap between developed and developing nations in this field.
Mr. Chair,
Sri Lanka strongly supports the resolutions presented by the NAM under this cluster, including on the observance of environmental norms in disarmament agreements, the promotion of multilateralism in disarmament and non-proliferation, and the relationship between disarmament and development. We share the concern at the steady rise in global military expenditure, resources that could be far better directed to improving the lives of millions by eradicating poverty, addressing global health challenges, and promoting human security. True peace and stability are achievable only when we reorient resources towards development and mutual prosperity.
Mr. Chair,
Sri Lanka reiterates that disarmament and international security must be advanced through strengthened multilateralism, grounded in consensus and respect for international law. We must continue to seek common ground and mutually beneficial solutions that build trust and ease tensions. Achieving disarmament would contribute greatly towards the collective peace and development of all people.
Thank you.