WASHINGTON
The UN disarmament chief on Friday called on countries to engage in good faith ahead of a major global conference on nuclear weapons, warning that rising geopolitical tensions underscore the importance of cooperation.
Izumi Nakamitsu, speaking to reporters, said the upcoming review conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) will be a critical moment for international security.
The gathering is scheduled to take place from April 27 to May 22 at the UN headquarters in New York City.
“The NPT is very often referred to as the cornerstone of the international disarmament and non-proliferation regime, and also a very important pillar of international peace and security,” Nakamitsu said.
She emphasized that the treaty provides “irreplaceable benefits” to all participating countries, including both nuclear-armed and non-nuclear states.
“I would like to really call upon all states parties to take their collective responsibility very seriously and call on them to engage in good faith,” she said.
Nakamitsu noted that while nuclear-weapon states bear special responsibility in advancing disarmament, the perspectives of non-nuclear states must also play a central role in negotiations.
“When it comes to nuclear weapons, it’s not just the security of nuclear-weapon states, but the security of the entire global community,” she said.
Her remarks come as conflicts and instability persist in several regions, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and tensions involving Iran. Nakamitsu said that while a ceasefire related to Iran appears to be holding for now, the situation remains uncertain.
When asked whether she is expecting a high-level representation from Iran at the conference, Nakamitsu said there is a senior member of the government who is still listed as part of the delegation.
“We have not heard from the government of Iran otherwise, so we will see. I mean, we still have over the weekend, we will find out who will actually be meeting the delegation from Iran. But indeed, Iran intends to participate in the review conference,” she added.
The NPT, which entered into force in 1970 and was extended indefinitely in 1995, aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons, promote disarmament, and encourage the peaceful use of nuclear energy. It remains a central framework for global efforts to limit nuclear proliferation.
The upcoming conference is expected to bring together diplomats from around the world at a time of heightened concern over nuclear risks and strategic competition.
