CIS states prepare joint statement on preventing arms race in outer space

The member states of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) are preparing to adopt a joint statement supporting practical measures to prevent an arms race in outer space, according to the organisation's Executive Committee.

An expert group met online on July 31, bringing together representatives from Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and the CIS Executive Committee, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

"The experts finalised and approved the draft joint statement, deciding to submit it for consideration at the next meeting of the CIS Council of Foreign Ministers. The Russian side initiated the adoption of the document," the Executive Committee said.

The draft statement notes that CIS member states conduct activities related to the exploration and use of outer space in the interests of international cooperation and mutual understanding, as well as the maintenance of international peace and security. They also support broad international efforts to strengthen the relevant legal framework governing outer space.

The document further expresses serious concern over the real prospect of an arms race in outer space and its transformation into a theatre of military confrontation, warning that such developments would undermine global stability.

It stresses the urgent need for practical measures to prevent an arms race in outer space.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov