Madam 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. Today, international efforts to promote peace, security, and sustainable development are overshadowed by the intolerable risks posed by nuclear weapons. The existence of nuclear weapons remains one of the gravest threats to global peace and security as well as the survival of all humankind as these weapons can cause unimaginable destruction to our planet. Despite reductions in stockpiles since the Cold War, several factors including geopolitical tensions contribute to ongoing risks and potential accidents.

 

Madam Chair,

3. Urgent actions are needed to prevent catastrophic consequences and the total elimination of nuclear weapons must be the global priority. In this connection, enhanced international cooperation and legally binding instruments form crucial steps toward nuclear disarmament. Achieving a nuclear-free world is not only a moral imperative but also a practical necessity for global security and the future of humanity. To make this vision a reality, it is essential to take more coordinated and concrete steps.

4. Toward this end, robust international legally binding treaties and instruments are the foundation of disarmament efforts. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) remains the cornerstone of the global nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation regime. We, therefore, call on all States Parties to the NPT to renew their commitments toward the full and effective implementation of the Treaty.

5. The Lao PDR is strongly committed to the TPNW. We are of the view that the universalization of the TPNW is vital for achieving the total elimination of nuclear weapons. On this note, we welcome four new ratifications this year, which increase the number of ratifying states to 73 and my delegation is looking forward to engaging constructively in the Third Meeting of States Parties to the TPNW next year.

6. The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) has provided a vital platform and established a strong international norm based on our common aspiration to ban all dangerous activities related to nuclear testing. We urge the remaining states to sign and ratify the Treaty as soon as possible to facilitate its entry into force.

7. At the regional level, the creation of regional nuclear-weapon-free zones is a crucial step toward reducing the threat of nuclear weapons. Together with other ASEAN member states, Lao PDR reiterates our firm commitment to the Southeast Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) Treaty. On this note, we thank all member states for supporting the adoption of the ASEAN-sponsored biennial resolution on the SEANWFZ last year, which reaffirms the importance of the Treaty in contributing to international peace and security, and underscores the significance attached to global nuclear disarmament.

Madam Chair,

8. As we work toward eliminating nuclear weapons, it is essential to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and technology. In this regard, the Lao PDR recognizes the significant role the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has played in nuclear non-proliferation and the promotion of peaceful use of nuclear technology, nuclear safety, and nuclear safeguards.

9. In conclusion, I would like to reaffirm my delegation’s unwavering commitment to upholding its international obligations and working with all member states. Only through global cooperation and continued effort, we can move closer to a world free of nuclear weapons.

Thank you, Madam Chair.