Explanatory Speech by Fu Zhigang at the First Committee of 52th UNGA on

Explanatory Speech by Fu Zhigang Concerning the Voting Position at the 52^nd UNGA First Committee on the Draft Resolution of The Role of Science and Technology in the Context of International Security and Disarmament (proposed by India) 12 November 1997 (unofficial EANP translation from Chinese)

Mr. Chairman:

The Chinese delegation voted in favor of the draft resolution on "The Role of Science and Technology in the Context of International Security and Disarmament" (A/C.1/52/L.14, 4 November 1997).

China is aware of the negative impact the military use of science and technology may have on international peace and security. China supports the strengthening of international efforts towards non-proliferation and advocates strict measures to counter the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons.

The Chinese delegation has always held the position that there has to be a comprehensive overhaul and reform of the current discriminatory and exclusive export control systems and arrangements. Export control systems related to dual use technology and equipment should be formulated with the broad participation of the international community. No non-proliferation measures should impede international cooperation in the peaceful use of technology. Countries should, in accordance with procedures stipulated by the relevant international legal instruments including dialogue and cooperation, address concerns on proliferation and realize the common international goal of non-proliferation.

Mr. Chairman,

China is concerned with the use of advanced technology for the development of weapons of mass destruction. An even greater concern to China is the use of advanced technology for the development of outer space weapons (such as anti-satellite weapons) and so-called theater missile defense (TMD) systems. From this perspective, the military use of science and technology is as significant in terms of conventional weapons as it is in terms of weapons of mass destruction. Thus, we believe that the wording of the second paragraph in the introductory section of this draft resolution could be further revised.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

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