Ambassador Leonardo Bencini, during the thematic debate on “Disarmament Machinery” (Cluster VII) in the First Committee (Disarmament and Security) of the United Nations General Assembly, reaffirmed Italy’s support for the multilateral system and the disarmament architecture built over decades, now under attack, particularly by Russia.
Italy, which will assume the presidency of the Conference on Disarmament (CD) in January 2025, considers it appropriate to review and align the respective mandates of the CD, a body with a negotiating nature, and the United Nations Disarmament Commission, which meets in New York and has a deliberative function.
Italy also supports the principle of inclusivity, with increased involvement of civil society and greater female participation in forums dedicated to disarmament.
Ambassador Bencini reiterated Italy’s support for Action 26 of the Pact for the Future and for discussions on the possible convening, when the time is right, of a fourth Special Session of the General Assembly dedicated to disarmament (SSOD-IV).
