Pakistan warned that the weaponisation of space has transitioned from a theoretical doctrine into active deployment. Orbital weapons were officially acknowledged last month, prompting concerns that integrating missile defence with space-based systems undermines global strategic stability.
Deployments of such technology risk triggering countermeasures and destabilising international security through an unsustainable arms race. Islamabad argues that non-binding guidelines are no longer sufficient to secure the global commons and has pushed for a legally binding treaty on the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space (PAROS).
While voluntary Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) guidelines are helpful stepping stones, they cannot substitute for a formal treaty. Pakistan reiterated concrete proposals outlining basic obligations for a potential, legally-binding PAROS treaty.
Husham Ahmed said, "We must pursue a comprehensive approach that can preserve outer space as a domain free from conflict for future generations." Ahmed noted that the OEWG on PAROS in all its aspects offers a unique platform to bridge differences, where useful discussions are taking place.
He added, "We must build on these discussions to lay the foundation for both legally and non-legally binding measures."
