Outer space should remain realm for cooperation, not conflict: MP Sudha Murty tells UNGA
Ms. Murty called for a legally binding international instrument to prevent an arms race in space, as India highlighted its Moon landing, Gaganyaan and the planned Bharatiya Antariksha Station
Outer space should be a domain of cooperation, not confrontation, according to Indian Member of Parliament Sudha Murty speaking at the UN General Assembly's First Committee. Noting the emergence of new actors in the outer space realm, Ms. Murty emphasized that dual-use space technologies and assets had become a reality. India, as a major space-faring nation, highlighted its Moon landing, Gaganyaan program, and the planned Bharatiya Antariksha Station as examples of its commitment to space exploration.
The MP called for a legally binding international instrument to prevent an arms race in space, expressing India's preference for a universally acceptable, verifiable, and multilaterally negotiated PAROS treaty. While open to universal and non-discriminatory norms and transparency measures, Ms. Murty stressed that these could only complement, not replace, a legally binding framework.
She also stressed the importance of considering threats to safety, security, and sustainability of space, as well as the risk of misunderstanding and miscalculation, together. India's space achievements, such as its 2023 lunar landing and the upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight program, were highlighted to underscore the country's dedication to peaceful and legitimate space pursuits.
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