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674154
Sat, 12/30/2023 - 22:18
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Bahrain calls for addressing threat posed by diversion, illicit trafficking, misuse of small arms

New York, Dec. 16 (BNA): The Kingdom of Bahrain has called for addressing the serious threat posed by the diversion, illicit trade and misuse of small arms and light weapons, as these actions contribute to the escalation of conflicts, exacerbate violence, and put the stability of countries at risk.

 

The call was made by Ambassador Jamal Fares Al Rowaiei, the Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the United Nations, while participating in the open debate held by the UN Security Council on “Addressing the threat posed by diversion, illicit trafficking and misuse of small arms and light weapons and their ammunition to peace and security”.

 

In his speech, Al Rowaiei stressed that the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons fuels terrorism, organised crime and armed violence, and therefore effectively addressing these challenges is not only a moral duty, but also a practical necessity to build a safer and more secure world for the present and future generations.

 

Ambassador Al Rowaiei highlighted the need to distinguish between combating the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons and the legitimate trade in conventional weapons among governments, according to the sovereign discretion of each of them and the nature of the security threats they face, affirming the legitimate right of countries to provide their needs for conventional weapons in accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.

 

He stressed the importance of enhancing the exchange of intelligence information, expertise and resources necessary to effectively combat illicit arms trafficking, as well as securing countries’ land and sea borders, given the cross-border threat of illicit trafficking in small arms and light weapons.

 

He highlighted Bahrain’s active participation in regional and international initiatives to confront the challenges associated with the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, as well as its endeavours to strengthen partnerships with countries and competent regional and international organisations on responsible arms trade practices, with the aim of strengthening collective efforts aimed at preventing the diversion of small arms and light weapons.

 

He also shed light on the kingdom’s efforts to effectively strengthen border control by taking strong measures to intercept and prevent attempts at illegal arms transfers, thus disrupting supply chains that support criminal networks.

 

The kingdom’s Permanent Representative to the UN emphasised that addressing the threat posed by the diversion, illicit trafficking and misuse of small arms and light weapons requires a comprehensive and cooperative approach that takes into account the specificities of countries, geographical regions and national capabilities.

 


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