The United States, represented by Lubna Khan, addressed the 68th session of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) in Vienna, Austria. The U.S. delegation highlighted the importance of advancing proposals to ensure safe and sustainable space exploration. "Advancing the United Arab Emirates delegation’s proposal on an SSA expert group, the German delegation’s proposal on a Space Traffic study group, and finalizing the ATLAC workplan would demonstrate the relevance and impact of UNCOPUOS," said Khan.
The U.S. supports streamlining agenda items and working methods in light of financial constraints that may lead to shortened sessions. They back Canada's proposal to critically assess meeting entitlements and suggest reallocating support services from LSC to Plenary sessions.
Khan emphasized that COPUOS must focus on solutions for the evolving space sector by integrating non-governmental actors while maintaining Member States' decision-making roles. The U.S. encourages using UN Office for Outer Space Affairs' convening power for more engagement with non-government space actors.
Concerns were raised about potential duplication of mandates within other UN fora which could undermine UNCOPUOS's expertise. "Unless these and other concerns are addressed within the Russian Federation’s 'Space Science and Technology for Promoting Peace,' we remain concerned about the resolution," Khan stated.
Appreciation was expressed towards Italy and Morocco for facilitating discussions on a possible UNISPACE IV event, though questions remain regarding its outcomes and financial implications amid budgetary uncertainty.