Statement by the Delegation of Brazil at the UNSC briefing meeting on the Non-Proliferation - December 19th, 2022

Madam President,

At the outset, I would like to thank Ambassador Fergal Mythen for his briefing, his report and his work as facilitator on the implementation of Security Council resolution 2231. The work of the facilitator is a central element in the process of monitoring the implementation of the resolution, alongside the Secretary-General’s reporting mechanism and the activities of the Joint Commission and the Procurement Working Group. I would also like to thank USG Rosemary DiCarlo and Ambassador Olof Skoog for their briefings.

Brazil welcomes the Facilitator’s, the Secretary-General's and the Joint Commision’s reports and takes note of the findings therein.

Madam President,

Brazil reiterates its belief that the Iranian nuclear issue can only be resolved by peaceful and diplomatic means, in accordance with international law. It is our understanding that the JCPOA provides a suitable framework for dialogue among the Parties concerned.

Over the past four years, we have witnessed many actions that put the sustainability of the JCPOA in serious jeopardy. Such actions have also greatly increased the complexity of the task of agreeing on a common path towards restoring the JCPOA. We are concerned with increasing signs that the window of opportunity for negotiations towards that goal is closing.

However, we remain hopeful that dialogue and mutual understanding will prevail, and that all Parties involved will demonstrate the flexibility and constructiveness necessary to achieve that goal.

Pending the conclusion of ongoing negotiations, we call upon all parties to refrain from any further actions that may jeopardize a possible - and necessary - agreement on the issue.

As stated in the Secretary-General's report, issues not related to the JCPOA should be addressed without prejudice to preserving the Plan and its accomplishments.

Madam President,

Brazil defends the central role of the IAEA as the internationally recognized authority responsible for monitoring and verifying compliance with the non-proliferation obligations of states under the NPT.

In this regard, we regret that the Agency’s verification and monitoring activities of nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA have been seriously affected. The resumption of such activities is critical for the successful restoration of full compliance with the JCPOA.

In parallel, Brazil welcomes the efforts of the Director General of the IAEA to preserve the Agency’s ability to fulfil its mandate in the implementation of comprehensive safeguards in Iran and to clarify outstanding issues.

Finally, Madam President, regarding the alleged transfers of unmanned aerial vehicles from Iran to Russia, in possible violation of Security Council resolution 2231, Brazil awaits an independent assessment of such allegations.

I thank you.