Statement by Permanent Representative of Slovenia to the United Nations Samuel Žbogar at a UNSC open debate on the Maintenance of international peace and security – Strengthening maritime security through international cooperation for global stability

Thank you very much, Mr. President,

We would like to thank Greece for organizing today’s debate. Your presence here today, Mr. Prime Minister, is also demonstrating the commitment of Greece not only to maritime security, but to the UN and to the role of the Security Council. Thank you for that.

I also thank the Secretary-General, Ms. Travlos and Mr. Bueger for presenting their perspectives on this important topic that directly or indirectly touches all States.

Throughout history, oceans, covering 75% of Earth’s surface, have been the backbone of human activity on livelihood, trade and development, but also military action. Currently, maritime transport represents 80% of the volume of global trade in goods, making it a critical factor for development and prosperity of States. And both briefers today reminded us of recent cases proving this point.

International trade depends on stable and secure environment. That makes maritime security our common interest and concern.

While we may name the seas and oceans differently, they are all one body of water making cooperation among States crucial.

In this context, I would like to make three points:

First, we fully concur with the Secretary-General’s emphasis on the need to respect international law.

The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea provides the main legal framework for this cooperation. States are obliged to implement their responsibilities in good faith and take all necessary measures to prevent potential abuses. In cases where violations occur, accountability must be ensured.

States must also ensure the implementation of Security Council resolutions, including on maritime sanctions and prevent possible evasion, especially through flag-hopping, AIS spoofing and similar measures.

Secondly, about the maintenance of maritime security. Be it off the coast of Somalia, or the Gulf of Guinea or the Houthis attacks on shipping lanes in the Red Sea.

We must find way to comprehensively tackle smuggling, illegal trafficking, piracy and terrorism.

While speaking on prevention of maritime smuggling and illegal trafficking, we should also address prevention of illicit maritime transfers of weapons of mass destruction, and the dual-use of goods in line with international law. Slovenia remains committed to contributing to maritime security, including through EU’s three naval operations just mentioned by my French colleague. IRINI, which through inspections assists in implementation of arms embargo off the coast of Libya, ATALANTA that helps fight piracy and armed robbery at sea off the coast of Somalia and ASPIDES with defensive mandate in the Red Sea. We firmly believe that regional arrangements and activities can play an important role in the wider framework of international security engagement, including on maritime security.

Mr. President,

Most concerns regarding physical insecurity of shipping lanes relate to impacts on global supply chains and international maritime trade. Slovenia is however also extremely concerned about other broader impacts, especially environmental disasters from oil spills, cargo incidents or other toxic discharges.  Maritime security must address climate resilience, as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and marine biodiversity loss threaten coastal communities and global stability.

Thirdly, about the use of new technologies.

It is necessary to invest in equipment and capacity building to ensure both safety and security of port infrastructure and maritime domain awareness. Only in this way, the States address and counter maritime security threats, such as terrorism, piracy and armed robbery, smuggling and trafficking of goods, persons and drugs and irregular migration.

In most cases, these threats are enhanced by technological innovations and advanced equipment. We need to be ready to face the evolving maritime security challenges. Use of new technologies, combined with development of digital skills and cybersecurity, can substantially contribute to the ability and capacity of littoral states to ensure safety and security and risk management of maritime and coastal areas.

To conclude, Mr. President,

Oceans and waterways are our shared planetary resource, infrastructure and vital environment. They are also our shared responsibility. In order to utilize them fully and sustainably, it has to be done properly, by protecting them from environmental degradation and destruction and by ensuring maritime security for all stakeholders.

Thank you.

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