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

Madam President, thank you.

I wish to thank Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo for her briefing and also for nice words addressed to me and my team as facilitators of the implementation of 2231 resolution and I want to thank also the Representative of the European Union for his insights.

Madam President,

JCPoA is undoubtedly one of the greatest achievements of multilateralism in the past decade. A unified position amongst the key actors was a decisive factor. It brought about a robust regime that comprehensively addressed a pressing international security issue. Regrettably, it has suffered its share of tough trials and setbacks in recent years.

To our regret, the US withdrew from it and Iran gradually made several steps away from its JCPoA commitments.

Slovenia remains deeply concerned by the continued alarming expansion of Iran’s nuclear programme. The re-establishment of Iranian constructive engagement with the IAEA is key and will help Iran to regain the international community’s confidence about its nuclear activities.

We have consistently condemned Iran’s unacceptable disregard for its non‑proliferation obligations, including the IAEA Safeguards Agreement. Slovenia has zero tolerance for nuclear proliferation. However, Slovenia also has zero tolerance for attacks against nuclear infrastructure anywhere.

Madam President,

The Iran nuclear file is on a decidedly wrong path and we urgently need a change of pace. We welcome the announcement of a ceasefire, which is an important step towards restoring stability in the region. We join the calls to both parties to respect it.

Madam President,

This is potentially the last regular Council meeting about the implementation of JCPoA and resolution 2231.

It seems like an era is coming to a close and it is uncertain what the ensuing era will bring.

The latest developments in the region add the unpredictability and raise questions about the future of not only Iran, but the whole region and the nuclear non-proliferation architecture.

One thing is certain though.

As October and the Termination day are approaching, it is important to recall that JCPoA’s objectives remain valid.

We need diplomacy and we need it now.

Thank you Madam President.

Recent Statements