General Statement by Sweden delivered by Mr Dario Jovic, Counsellor, Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
Thank you chair,
Let me begin by expressing Sweden’s appreciation for your constructive leadership and the ambitious approach that you and your team have undertaken, in preparation of this first session. You can rest assured that Sweden will continue to support you in our work ahead.
Chair,
Sweden recognizes the encouraging progress that has been made within the framework of the GGE last year, where both sessions showed promising signs of convergence on several topics. We appreciate the constructive approach taken by many delegations in finding common solutions and ways forward, including by submitting working papers and organizing conferences to facilitate discussions. Our joint efforts are allowing us to move in the right direction, bridging gaps and increasing understanding.
By agreeing on a new two-year mandate for the GGE we believe there is a clear path to a substantial breakthrough if we all show political will.
Chair,
Sweden supports the two-tier approach – indicating that a distinction should be made between those weapon systems that cannot be used in accordance with international law, in particular IHL, and systems that include autonomous features, which should be regulated in order to ensure compliance with IHL and other applicable international law. We are pleased to see that the approach has continued to gain traction and is contributing to achieving greater progress on issues related to LAWS.
Chair,
In closing, Sweden believes that the CCW remains the appropriate international forum to deal with issues related to LAWS, allowing for all relevant stakeholders to be part of the process and we welcome the valuable contribution of academia, think tanks and civil society.
We regret that the GGE recommendation to the High Contracting Parties of the CCW allowing for the GGE LAWS to meet for 20 days during 2024 was not adopted. It is vital to use the days we have to achieve progress and agree on an ambitious report in 2025.
Sweden looks forward to a week of open, inclusive and productive discussions, harnessing the current momentum.
I thank you.
