RA Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan delivered a speech at the high-level segment of the Conference on Disarmament.
“I am pleased to address the Conference on Disarmament in the status of an observer state. As a unique platform, the Conference on Disarmament is crucial in strengthening international peace and security. More than four decades after its establishment, it has significant, yet untapped, potential in advancing global disarmament and security goals.
In this context, the Republic of Armenia is firmly committed to its commitments under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, one of the key pillars of the international security architecture. At the same time, the peaceful use of nuclear energy has been and continues to be one of Armenia’s policy priorities.
Armenia, guided by the successful maintenance of high standards of safety and security during the operation of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant and with the ultimate goal of a smooth transition to new capacity by 2036, has chosen a transparent and open policy for the safe and peaceful use of nuclear energy and will continue to follow this policy, taking the necessary measures to strengthen and maintain atomic safety and security. Armenia has already initiated the preliminary processes for selecting and constructing a new nuclear power plant. At the moment, we are thoroughly studying the features of small modular reactors (SMRs).
The Republic of Armenia has always maintained that an effectively functioning conventional arms control regime is irreplaceable for ensuring military and political stability at the international, regional, and subregional levels. We consistently support the full implementation of arms control agreements, coupled with the unconditional observance of the guiding principles of that regime, as an essential prerequisite for ensuring sustainable peace and security. In this context, we are also considering joining the Arms Trade Treaty.
Armenia has been steadfastly committed to a legally binding conventional arms control regime in Europe. We have adhered to its provisions and fulfilled our obligations in good faith. However, contrary to our commitment, reality has diverged from initial expectations. Due to the lack of effective control and enforcement, the regime has unwittingly allowed those with malicious intentions to conceal their wrongdoings. The results are known: the arms control regime has failed to prevent the recurrence of the use of force, undermining the very foundations of stability it was designed to protect.
Nevertheless, Armenia remains committed to this idea and advocates for strengthening a practical and comprehensive arms control regime. Armenia has submitted a written proposal to Azerbaijan to establish mechanisms for mutual arms control and joint investigation of border incidents to increase transparency and build confidence in the South Caucasus. This initiative aims to build mutual trust, reduce the perception of threats, and strengthen regional stability. Awaiting a response to this constructive proposal, we hope that dialogue and cooperation will prevail over hostility and mistrust.
Recognizing the growing trend of States developing and deploying military artificial intelligence capabilities, including the integration of AI to support autonomous functions and systems, the Republic of Armenia emphasizes that the application of AI in the military sector should be appropriately regulated by existing international legal instruments, not excluding the possibility of future relevant legal regulations, thus reducing the risk of AI being exploited by irresponsible actors to violate international law.
The Republic of Armenia reaffirms that international law, particularly international humanitarian law and international human rights law, fully applies to all weapons, including systems incorporating artificial intelligence and autonomous technologies. The use of artificial intelligence for military purposes should be ethical and responsible and contribute to strengthening international security. Such use should be consistent with all relevant international legal regulations.
Furthermore, within the framework of promoting the responsible use of military artificial intelligence, the Republic of Armenia attaches considerable importance to the responsible and ethical transfer of military AI technologies. This implies that leading states developing advanced military AI technologies, including autonomous military systems, should refrain from authorizing such transfers if credible information exists that the receiving State has previously violated international and human rights laws.
In conclusion, ensuring peace and international security is a joint effort that serves the common interests of all and requires continued dedication and sincere determination. Armenia remains committed to continuing the search for negotiated multilateral solutions, promoting dialogue, and strengthening international cooperation for peace and security.
