At the Eleventh Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) in New York, Libya reaffirmed its unwavering stance on global nuclear disarmament and the elimination of weapons of mass destruction, while upholding nations’ rights to develop nuclear technology for peaceful applications.
The Libyan state was represented at the international forum by a diplomatic delegation comprising Abdullah al-Atwi, Second Secretary at the Permanent Mission, alongside Islam Araibi from the International Organizations Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Arab Regret Over Lack of Consensus on the Final Document
Delivering a joint statement on behalf of the Arab Group in its capacity as the current monthly chair, Libya expressed profound regret over the conference’s failure, for the third consecutive time, to adopt a consensus-based final document.
The Arab Group held specific nuclear-weapon states responsible for the gridlock, accusing them of backtracking on international pledges and failing to institute practical measures to implement the nuclear disarmament provisions outlined in Article VI of the treaty.
Urgent Calls for Global Scrutiny of Israeli Occupation’s Nuclear Sites
The Libyan delegation reiterated the unified Arab position calling for the immediate implementation of the 1995 Resolution on the Middle East, aimed at establishing a zone entirely free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction.
Furthermore, the statement urged international pressure to compel the Zionist entity to accede to the NPT and to place all its nuclear facilities under the comprehensive safeguards and inspection regime of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Upholding the Peaceful Use of Atomic Energy
The declaration underscored Libya’s firm commitment to the unalienable right of states to transfer and develop nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, particularly in health, agriculture, and energy production, rejecting any conditional restrictions imposed on this entitlement.
Advocating for Robust Global Action
Concluding its remarks, the Libyan delegation voiced disappointment over the absence of concrete steps and clear timelines for total nuclear disarmament, emphasizing that Libya remains dedicated to backing regional and international initiatives that safeguard global peace, security, and the developmental interests of all nations.