Statement by Ambassador Anupam Ray at the Open Ended Working Group on Reducing Space Threats, Geneva, September 13, 2022

Mr. Chair,

Let me begin by congratulating you on your chairing this second session of the Open Ended Working Group.

My delegation assures of you its fullest cooperation.

India’s view on the OEWG are recorded in the Explanation of Vote to then relevant UNGA Resolutions76/231 India is however participating in the proceedings of the group substantively and constructively

The discussions in the first session of the open-ended working group were undeniably informative and useful.

We look forward to taking part in deliberations in this second session and assure you of our support and constructive participation.

Mr. Chairman,

Space-based capabilities are increasingly essential for the welfare of humankind. It contributes to national socio-economic development through a wide array of applications, promotes scientific research and technological progress, and supports national self- defense endeavors.

India’s focus is on the use of space for “welfare”, not for “warfare”. India is opposed to the weaponization of outer space and has not resorted to any arms race in outer space.

Mr. Chair,

In the context of the discussions in the first session and the ongoing second session, we would like to offer some initial observations and thoughts.

As a first step there is a need to develop a common interpretation of the existent legal framework on outer space. We feel that it is necessary to elaborate and develop understandings on certain specific provisions and terminologies such as those contained in the Outer Space Treaty for clarifying which activities are permitted in outer space - and which are not.

The discussions yesterday focused on the range of threats and security risks to space systems, including those arising from actions, activities or systems in outer space or on Earth. In this context, we feel that all outer space threats must be assessed comprehensively. Selective focus on some threats in comparison to others should be avoided.

We feel that discussions on space security and space safety and sustainability should take place in relevant forums such as CD and UN COPUOS. Mandates should be respected. Overlaps should be avoided. This will avoid duplication of discussions in various fora and the creation of multiple standards on the same issues.

It is our preference to have a legally binding instrument because it elicits stronger guarantee of compliance and a greater commitment by States to adhere to the obligations. However, we are also open to the development of non-binding outcomes such as common rules and norms andtransparency & confidence building measures since they are complementary in nature and can serve as a foundation for binding agreements.

We understand that there could be some merit in the pursuit of a behavioral approach to outer space security since space objects are inherently dual use in nature and since much depends on how they are used - and the intent behind the usage.

Subjectivity in the interpretation of space behaviors and perception of threats, how they are understood, and the application of such determinations, has been a matter of concern for us. It may be the case that certain space behaviors can be misinterpreted as irresponsible even if the intent is peaceful in nature and there is no intention to cause damage. The relationship between the development of capacity and behaviours requires reflection. There is a need to discuss the matter of objectivity in this and look into whether an objective methodology based on uniform or quantifiable criterion to avoid ambiguity can be developed.

We have concerns about who will make assessments about the responsibility, or lack thereof, in respect of space activities or operations.

We have concerns about verification of space behavior using current technology and access to such technology.  The means for unbiased assessmentof a space behavior that are accepted and understood by all, and that are immune to politicization, are a related matter of concern.

It is also our position that outcomes of any space security related process including the OEWG should not impede the process of scientific and technological development for peaceful and legitimate purposes. In addition, it should not create new obstacles or restrictions for emerging space faring nations or developing nations. They should also   not affect existing international cooperation efforts.

Mr. Chair,

We believe that Outer space should remain as an ever-expanding frontier of cooperative endeavor rather than conflict. We will support international instruments aimed at maintaining outer space for peaceful purposes for all, subject that arenon-discriminatory in nature, adhere equity, are adequately verifiable and provide greater certainty and predictability in the outer space environment.

Thank you.