Permanent Mission of the Republic of Korea to the United Nations

Final United Nations Conference on the Arms Trade Treaty
Statement by Ambassador Shin Dong-ik


Mr. President,

At the outset, let me join other delegations in congratulating you on your election as President of this Final UN Conference on the Arms Trade Treaty.  I am confident that under your able leadership, the international community will reach a common understanding and finally make the ATT a reality.

Mr. President,

The Republic of Korea believes that the first and foremost objective of the ATT is to provide for a legally binding instrument that establishes the highest possible common standards in regulating the international transfer of conventional arms, with the aim to prevent the illicit and irresponsible trade of conventional arms from undermining international peace, security, and stability.

The Republic of Korea believes that a carefully drafted ATT could work in full compliance with the general principles of international law, including national sovereignty, non-violence and respect for human rights. The Republic of Korea reaffirms its resolute support for the goals and objectives behind the ATT, and reiterates its firm conviction that the ATT could work to further promote international peace and security.

To this end, I would like to comment on three major substantial issues to which my country attaches importance. We will make further specific comments on relevant articles in the ensuing discussions.

First, the Republic of Korea believes that a broad scope of conventional arms is necessary to promote and fulfil the goals and objectives of the ATT. We support the inclusion of the weaponry under the UN Register of Conventional Arms (UNRCA) as well as small arms and light weapons within the scope of this Treaty. In this vein, we believe that the July 26 text should provide a good basis to reach a consensus.

Second, the ATT should work to promote international peace, security and stability. It is essential that the ATT clearly prohibit the transfers of conventional arms that violate relevant UN Security Council resolutions including arms embargoes. Further consideration should be given to strengthening the prohibition of conventional arms related to the commission of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. The ATT also should provide for the institution of effective domestic export control systems that regulate the transfers of conventional arms based on national assessment of various criteria.

Third, the Republic of Korea believes that transparency measures concerning the transfers of conventional arms constitute an important element of the ATT. At the same time, we feel that there should be a balance between such provisions and specific national security concerns such as the protection of sensitive information of countries.

Mr. President,

The Republic of Korea offers its firm support for the full adoption of an Arms Trade Treaty at this conference. I assure you of our sincere participation and cooperation throughout this conference.

Thank you.