Reaffirming that proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and their means of delivery, threatens international peace and security, the UN Security Council on September 23 adopted a resolution urging all States who haven't done so to sign the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test_Ban Treaty.
The resolution reflected the world community’s strong commitment for a safer world, in which nuclear technology is only used for peaceful purposes and prevent risks of nuclear conflicts.
With 14 votes in favor and one abstention, the resolution welcomed progress made towards universalization of the Treaty, noting that 183 States have signed the Treaty and 166 States have deposited their instruments of ratification.
The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test_Ban Treaty bans all nuclear explosions for both civilian and military purposes. The resolution called on countries that have not signed or adopted the treaty to fulfill its responsibility and obligation to the international community.
Signed on September 24, 1996, the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty is a multilateral treaty banning all countries to conduct nuclear tests. Since then India, Pakistan, and North Korea have conducted nuclear tests. On September 9, North Korea conducted its fifth most powerful nuclear test, which has caused great concerns among the international community.
Many countries have praised the prompt adoption of the Resolution, especially following the DPRK’s fifth nuclear test. But the DPRK strongly reacted to the resolution.
The DPRK Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho said the country will continue to take measures to strengthen its national nuclear armed forces in both quantity and quality in order to defend the dignity and right to existence and safeguard genuine peace.
Ri Yong Ho said North Korea’s nuclear tests are retaliatory measures against the US. Mr. Ri’s statement was made two weeks after the DPRK conducted its fifth most powerful nuclear test on September 9.
Since early this year, The DPRK conducted 2 nuclear tests and more than 20 missile tests. The nuclear tests have increased tension on the Korean peninsula.
At the 71st session of the UN General Assembly, while many countries called on the international community to maintain a new approach in settling the Korean nuclear issue instead of sanctions, many said it’s time to reconsider North Korea’s membership status.
Though the resolution reflects the world community’s commitment for a safer world, UN member countries need to be more cautious and responsible, refrain from provocative steps, and find comprehensive solutions to ensure that nuclear is only used for peaceful purposes.
