The Third Conference of States Parties to the TPNW, chaired by Kazakhstan, concluded on March 7, resulting in essential agreements to promote nuclear disarmament and the establishment of an International Trust Fund for victims. Kazakhstan’s strong leadership and commitment to disarmament were commended, alongside the adoption of a Political Declaration condemning nuclear threats, reflecting a global consensus on preventing the use of nuclear weapons.
The Third Conference of States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), led by Kazakhstan, concluded its discussions on March 7 at the United Nations headquarters. This conference successfully promoted constructive dialogue resulting in consensus on pivotal documents aimed at enhancing the treaty’s implementation to support nuclear disarmament globally.
Delegates reaffirmed their commitment to nuclear disarmament by adopting a Political Declaration that denounced nuclear threats, while also highlighting the profound humanitarian and environmental ramifications associated with nuclear weapons. The urgency of this topic was emphasized by First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Akan Rakhmetullin, who noted the historical devastation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, as well as the impacts of nuclear testing at the Semipalatinsk Test Site.
A significant outcome of the conference was the endorsement of a proposal for establishing an International Trust Fund, initiated by Kazakhstan and Kiribati. This fund is designed to aid victims of nuclear weapon use and testing while facilitating the rehabilitation of contaminated environments, with a targeted framework completion by mid-2026 for launch at the subsequent TPNW Review Conference.
Furthermore, participants articulated a desire to increase the number of TPNW states parties and to foster collaboration between parliaments, scientific communities, and civil society to bolster disarmament endeavors. Kazakhstan’s leadership during this conference was praised, reflecting its consistent commitment to nuclear disarmament under the foreign policy of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
The conference included various thematic events, notably Kazakhstan’s side event titled “Semipalatinsk Test Site: The Cost of Nuclear Weapons – A Warning to the World,” featuring notable contributions from institutions and individuals dedicated to nuclear disarmament. The exhibition “Echoes of the Polygon” and the documentary “I Want to Live On” provided poignant insights through personal experiences of nuclear testing survivors.
Kazakhstan’s stewardship at the conference reiterated its prominent position within the global movement against nuclear weapons. The nation, celebrated for renouncing a substantial nuclear arsenal and closing its test site, continues to lead the charge for disarmament and global security as the 80th anniversary of the United Nations approaches.
The Third Conference of States Parties to the TPNW underscored Kazakhstan’s pivotal role in the global disarmament movement. Through the adoption of key agreements, including the establishment of an International Trust Fund and a renewed commitment to nuclear disarmament, the conference marked significant progress in advancing international cooperation and addressing the humanitarian impacts of nuclear weapons, solidifying Kazakhstan’s reputation as a leader in global security initiatives.
Original Source: astanatimes.com
