11 June 1998
Press Release
DCF/339
CONFERENCE ON DISARMAMENT HEARS JOINT DECLARATION ON NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT BY EIGHT FOREIGN MINISTERS
19980611
H.M.G.S. PALIHAKKARA (Sri Lanka), Special Coordinator for the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space, said he had held a series of consultations on this issue. There was a general recognition that the prevention of an arms race in outer space continued to be an issue of importance and urgency and delegations showed readiness to contribute towards that common objective in a constructive spirit. It was also generally understood that while there continued to be no objection in principle to the re-establishment of an ad hoc committee on the subject, further consultations would be needed as to when that decision could be taken. Meanwhile, several constructive ideas were considered during the consultations concerning the updating of the mandate of the committee. It was also evident that some delegations needed time to consider all related aspects of the issue and the timing of the establishment of the ad hoc committee. Consultations would continue, and given the wide measure of support and constructive spirit displayed by all delegations, the Ambassador of Sri Lanka hoped to submit a conclusive report, including on a revised draft mandate, in due course.