Mr. Chair,

1. My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered by the distinguished representatives of Indonesia and Vietnam on behalf of NAM and ASEAN.

2. The Lao PDR joins the majority of UN member states in the call for urgent action towards the total elimination of nuclear weapons. We still witness today that nuclear weapons continue to pose major threats to global peace and security and survival of humankind. Our current and future generations continue to live under the constant fear and risks of nuclear catastrophe.

Mr. Chair,

3. To this end, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) has provided vital platform and established a strong international norm based on our common aspiration to ban all dangerous activities related to nuclear testing. We further welcome the latest ratification this year, increasing the number of ratified states to 178. We urge the remaining countries to sign and ratify the Treaty as soon as possible to facilitate its entry into force.

4. On this note, we are encouraged by the recent positive developments under the framework of the TPNW. Its entry into force in 2021 and the successful convening of its First Meeting of States Parties in June last year has laid a solid foundation for successful implementation. Towards this end, my delegation is looking forward to engaging constructively in the Second Meeting of States Parties later this year. We encourage all Member States to participate actively in the meeting.

5. The Lao PDR strongly believes that both the TPNW and the NPT are complementary and collectively play a significant role in realizing our shared objective of a world free of nuclear weapons. The NPT, in particular, remains the cornerstone of global nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Despite the consecutive failure of the 9th and 10th NPT Review Conferences to adopt a consensual outcome document, we urge all States Parties to the NPT to renew their commitment towards the full implementation of the Treaty.

Mr. Chair,

6. The Lao PDR values the promotion of peaceful use of nuclear energy in economic and social development and appreciates IAEA for its continued assistance. Together with other ASEAN member states, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthen cooperation with the IAEA, especially through the implementation of the 2019 Practical Arrangements on Cooperation. In this regard, we in ASEAN are working closely to ensure full and effective implementation of the SEANWFZ Treaty and its Plan of Action. This year ASEAN will table a substantive draft resolution on the Treaty on Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone and we look forward to your support.

7. In conclusion, I would like to reaffirm the Lao PDR’s unwavering commitment to upholding its international obligations and working with all member states towards a more secured and peaceful world. I thank you.