Kazakhstan Chairs Successful TPNW Conference Emphasizing Nuclear Disarmament

The Third Conference of States Parties to the TPNW, chaired by Kazakhstan, concluded with significant agreements aimed at nuclear disarmament, including the adoption of a Political Declaration and the establishment of an International Trust Fund. The conference spotlighted the urgent need for disarmament, while Kazakhstan’s leadership was commended, reinforcing its commitment to non-proliferation and global security.

The Third Conference of States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), chaired by Kazakhstan, concluded on March 7 at the United Nations headquarters. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that discussions facilitated under Kazakhstan’s presidency cultivated constructive dialogue and led to consensus on crucial documents for improving the treaty’s implementation.

A significant reaffirmation of global commitment to nuclear disarmament occurred during this conference, where delegates adopted a Political Declaration that condemned nuclear threats while highlighting the severe humanitarian and environmental implications associated with nuclear weapons.

Akan Rakhmetullin, the First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and the conference president, underscored the urgent need for nuclear disarmament. He cited the devastation witnessed in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, along with the nuclear testing undertaken at the Semipalatinsk Test Site. He stated, “the elimination of nuclear weapons is not a matter of the distant future but a practical and urgent task.”

A noteworthy outcome from the conference was the approval of a proposal by Kazakhstan and Kiribati to create an International Trust Fund. This initiative aims to support victims of nuclear weapons use and testing, as well as aid in the environmental rehabilitation of affected locations. Delegates committed to completing the fund’s framework by mid-2026, with intentions to launch it during the 2026 TPNW Review Conference.

Moreover, participants reached agreements focusing on increasing the number of TPNW states parties and improving collaboration with parliaments, scientific bodies, and civil society for furthering disarmament initiatives. Delegates expressed appreciation for Kazakhstan’s ongoing leadership and dedication to the cause of nuclear disarmament, recognizing its unwavering foreign policy under President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev as a foundation for enhancing global security and non-proliferation efforts.

The conference included thematic events and exhibitions centered around nuclear disarmament. A notable side event hosted by Kazakhstan, titled “Semipalatinsk Test Site: The Cost of Nuclear Weapons – A Warning to the World,” featured contributions from the National Nuclear Center of Kazakhstan, Semei Medical University, and Goodwill Ambassador Karipbek Kuyukov. Additionally, the “Echoes of the Polygon” exhibition and the documentary “I Want to Live On” shared personal narratives from individuals impacted by nuclear testing.

Kazakhstan’s role as chair of the conference reinforced its prominent position in the international anti-nuclear movement. On the occasion of the UN’s 80th anniversary, the nation’s adept leadership further established its stature as a middle power with a well-balanced foreign policy. The TPNW, adopted in 2017 and entering into force in 2021, serves as the first legally binding international mechanism aimed at the comprehensive elimination of nuclear weapons. Kazakhstan, having voluntarily surrendered the world’s fourth-largest nuclear arsenal and closed the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site, continues to be a global leader in advocating for nuclear disarmament.

In summary, the Third Conference of States Parties to the TPNW accomplished critical milestones, fostering a renewed commitment to nuclear disarmament. Kazakhstan’s leadership played a significant role in establishing an International Trust Fund to support victims of nuclear testing and improve environmental conditions. The conference reinforced the importance of collaboration among states parties and civil society for advancing disarmament efforts, affirming Kazakhstan’s dedication to global anti-nuclear initiatives and security.

Original Source: astanatimes.com