Statement by

H.E. Mr. Sek Wannamethee

Ambassador and Permanent Representative

The Fifth Conference of States Parties to the Arms Trade Treaty

General Debate

27 August 2019

Mr. President,

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

At the outset, I would like to convey our sincere appreciation to you, Mr. President, for your able leadership and dedication over the past year in the preparation leading up to this Fifth Conference of States Parties. Our appreciation also extends to the Chairs and members of the three working groups, the Bureau, as well as the ATT secretariat for their efforts and contributions to the works of the Treaty.

Mr. President,

The ATT is indeed a core multilateral instrument in the conventional weapons framework that works to strengthen norms against illicit use and transfer of arms while upholding humanitarian principles through the regulation and prevention of arms diversion. The existence of the ATT therefore serves the interests of all States.  However, its objectives and full potential can only be realized when all parties are on board and its commitments are honored.

As a Signatory State, Thailand reaffirms our unwavering commitment and support to the Treaty. Our works towards ratification are ongoing, with all agencies concerned working steadfastly to expedite the process. In the same vein, we will continue to uphold the spirit of the Treaty through the strengthening of our domestic conventional arms control regime.

Mr. President,

International cooperation and assistance are keys to the universalization and effective implementation of the Treaty. Thailand appreciates all supports and outreaching efforts rendered to States, which contribute significantly to the capacity building of States as they work towards becoming party to the Treaty. On a particular note, Thailand highly appreciates the EU’s support in organizing an ATT capacity building workshop last year in Bangkok under the EU-ATT Outreach Project.   

Mr. President,

It has been nearly five years since the Treaty entered into force. It is thus welcoming to see substantive elements of the Treaty taking shape, such as the Working Groups on Treaty Implementation, Transparency and Reporting, and Universalization, as well as the Voluntary Trust Fund. These elements are all crucial towards fulfilling the objectives of the Treaty. Therefore, it is important that we work together to ensure that this good momentum continues, while also exploring other ways and means to move progressively forward.

Allow me to reiterate once again our strong deliberations in support of the Treaty. Thailand stands ready to work closely with all partners and contribute to a successful outcome of this Conference.

I thank you.