Chinese Ambassador for Disarmament Affairs Li Chijiang delivered a special address on outer space issues at the First Committee of the General Assembly on the 21st, pointing out that preventing an arms race and weaponization in outer space is the most urgent task in outer space security management. Li Chijiang said that at present, the arms race and weaponization of outer space have become a real threat. The United States defines outer space as a “combat territory” and publicly admits the deployment of space-control weapons in orbit, sending an extremely dangerous signal to the international community. The conflict between the desire of most countries to maintain outer space security and a country's domination of outer space is as acute as ever. This is the greatest challenge facing outer space security. He put forward four Chinese propositions: First, preventing an arms race and weaponization in outer space is the most urgent task in managing outer space security. Without resolving this fundamental issue, other rules in the field of outer space will be impacted. All countries should adhere to the concept of “no win or fight in outer space”, abandon the strategy of “dominating outer space”, and refrain from engaging in “great power competition” and factional confrontation in outer space. Second, strengthen international efforts to negotiate and conclude an arms control treaty in outer space. Facts have proven that voluntary rules cannot prevent the weaponization of outer space. The Sino-Russian draft “Treaty on the Prevention of the Placement of Weapons in Outer Space and the Threat or Use of Force against Outer Space Objects” is currently the only proposed legal instrument on arms control in outer space. Its core provisions can curb the weaponization and battlegrounds of outer space from the root causes. The Chinese side welcomes discussions and refinements of the draft text. Thirdly, adhere to multilateral negotiations and oppose double standards. Outer space rules should be made jointly by all countries; there should be no “small circles” or exclusive arrangements. International cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space should be actively promoted. Allowing the deployment of weapons in orbit while engaging in “selective arms control” will not help maintain peace and security in outer space. Fourth, focus on managing emerging issues. Deeply study the legal disputes and practical issues brought about by commercial space intervention in other countries' armed conflicts, and explore possible management solutions based on extensive consultations.

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