Mr. Chair,

1. My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered by the distinguished representatives of Indonesia on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and Malaysia on behalf of ASEAN.
2. We continue to witness that the existence of nuclear weapons remains one of the gravest threats to global peace, security, and the very survival of humankind. These weapons are capable of causing unimaginable destruction to our planet. Despite reductions in stockpiles since the Cold War, several factors, including rising geopolitical tensions, continue to contribute to the persistent risk of use, proliferation, and potential accidents.

Mr. Chair,

3. Today, international efforts to advance peace, security, and sustainable development are overshadowed by the intolerable risks posed by nuclear weapons. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic joins the majority of UN Member States in calling for urgent and concrete actions toward the total elimination of nuclear weapons. Our current and future generations continue to live under the constant shadow of nuclear catastrophe, which threatens humanity’s collective survival.
4. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) remains the cornerstone of the global nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation regime. We therefore call on all States Parties to renew their commitments toward the full and effective implementation of the Treaty in all its aspects.
5. The Lao PDR reaffirms its strong commitment to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW). We believe that the universalization of the TPNW is vital to achieving the total elimination of nuclear weapons and ensuring a world free from the threat of nuclear annihilation.
6. The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) continues to serve as a vital instrument and a strong international norm that embodies our shared aspiration to ban all nuclear testing. We urge the remaining States that have not yet done so to sign and ratify the Treaty at the earliest opportunity to facilitate its entry into force.

Mr. Chair,

7. We believe that the establishment of regional nuclear-weapon-free zones constitutes an essential step toward reducing and eventually eliminating the threat of nuclear weapons. The Lao PDR values the peaceful uses of nuclear energy for economic and social development and expresses appreciation to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for its continued assistance. Together with other ASEAN Member States, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening cooperation with the IAEA. In this regard, ASEAN continues to work closely to ensure the full and effective implementation of the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) and its Plan of Action.
8. In conclusion, the Lao PDR reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding its international obligations and to working constructively with all Member States to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons, thereby ensuring lasting peace, security, and sustainable development for all.

Thank you