Explanation of Vote by Permanent Representative of Slovenia to the United Nations Samuel Žbogar at the UNSC meeting on non-proliferation

Thank you, Mr. President and welcome to the Council from our side as well.

Colleagues,

10 years ago, JCPoA brought about a robust regime that comprehensively addressed a pressing international security issue.

It suffered some hard blows throughout the past years. Slovenia regretted the US withdrawal from the Plan and Iran’s cessation of its implementation.

We remain concerned with the scope and transparency of Iran’s nuclear programme, especially the stockpile of highly enriched uranium. We have called out Iran’s unacceptable disregard for its non-proliferation obligations. And we have also called out the equally unacceptable attack on its nuclear facilities.

Mr. President,

Slovenia voted against the draft resolution because it merely decides on a technical extension of the ten-year term, defined by the resolution 2231. It does not address any specific steps or conditions that would restore trust in the peaceful nature of the Iranian nuclear program or restore trust between the JCPoA participants. Such extension – if it is to provide space for diplomacy and encourage substantial negotiations – should come with precisely defined commitments and conditions to be met. We regret that this is not the case.

This resolution seemed to do little else but divide. And this in times, when we should be uniting our forces in the interest of peace.

Mr. President,

JCPoA truly was a landmark achievement of multilateralism. Slovenia wishes to see its regime and objectives meaningfully restored. There is no other solution to the challenge of Iran’s nuclear program. We call on all sides to engage in diplomacy even after the sanctions snap back tomorrow. We call on all to engage seriously and without preconditions.

I thank you.

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