Statement By
His Excellency Ahmed Khaleel
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Maldives,
at the
High-level plenary meeting to commemorate and promote
the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons
26 September 2023
Thank you, Mr. President,
Mr. President, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen
I wish to express my delegation’s appreciation to you, President for convening this important gathering, underlining the steadfast commitment of the United Nations in the pursuit of disarmament, non-proliferation, and global security. I also wish to thank the Secretary-General for his efforts to highlight the importance of disarmament and non-proliferation, working towards securing Our Common Future.
We are here today with a profound sense of purpose and commitment, to commemorate the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.
Mr. President,
In 1946, the world stood witness to the devastation caused by the use of nuclear weapons. In the aftermath of this destructive event, humanity found the strength to unite. Together, we established the Atomic Energy Commission, under the General Assembly’s very first resolution.
It is during times of crisis that the true spirit of humanity shines through. We rise, not only to meet the challenges before us, but to surpass them. We exhibit resilience, compassion, and a shared determination to forge a better future.
While we gather at these commemorative events, we note that only 69 states have ratified or acceded to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. We take pride in being one of those states.
I urge all Member States who have not done so, to ratify the Treaty and reaffirm their dedication to the principles outlined in the Treaty, and to make stronger commitments in this regard.
Mr. President,
The Maldives reiterates our position that the total elimination of nuclear weapons, including the destruction of existing arsenals, is the only guarantee to prevent their use.
Since 2019, the Maldives has ratified the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, the Cluster Munitions Convention, and the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty. The Maldives welcomes the entry into force of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in January 2021. We also welcome the first meeting of State Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons and look forward to the second meeting in November this year.
With regard to the illicit trade in arms, our stringent national laws have ensured the prohibition of the illicit trade in arms, both within our borders and with other countries. Further, the Maldives annually reports to the United Nations Register of Conventional Arms.
Mr. President
The path to a world without nuclear weapons is an essential commitment to the security and prosperity of every nation and every individual. The path to a nuclear-free world is crucial for global security and prosperity. We need to amplify our efforts, equipping individuals globally to champion a world without nuclear arms. Through informed advocacy and determination, we can progress towards a safer, harmonious world.
On this International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, let us unite with determination to shape a future without nuclear threats. Together, we can change history and ensure peace for all.
I thank you.
