06 Nov 2019
1 Thank you, Mr Chairman.
2 I am taking the floor to explain my delegation’s votes in favour of the draft resolutions L.45, “Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction”, and L.46, “Implementation of the Convention on Cluster Munitions”, that have just been adopted.
3 Singapore has traditionally voted in favour of the resolution on “Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction”. Our position has been clear and consistent. Singapore supports all initiatives against the indiscriminate use of anti-personnel landmines. In May 1996, Singapore declared a two-year moratorium on the export of anti-personnel landmines without self-neutralising mechanisms. In February 1998, Singapore expanded the moratorium to include all manner of anti-personnel landmines, not just those without self-neutralising mechanisms. In addition, the moratorium was extended indefinitely.
4 Singapore also voted in favour of the resolution on “Implementation of the Convention on Cluster Munitions”, as we support initiatives against the indiscriminate use of cluster munitions, especially when directed at innocent civilians. It was for this reason that Singapore declared an indefinite moratorium in November 2008 on the export of cluster munitions.
5 Singapore supports the work of the two conventions I have mentioned by regularly attending the Meetings of the States Parties to these Conventions.
6 At the same time, as a small state, Singapore firmly believes that the legitimate security concerns and the right to self-defence of any State cannot be disregarded. A blanket ban on all types of cluster munitions and anti-personnel landmines may therefore be counter-productive.
7 Singapore supports international efforts to resolve the humanitarian concerns over anti-personnel landmines and cluster munitions. We will continue to work with members of the international community towards a durable and truly global solution.
8 Thank you.
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