A significant step towards nuclear disarmament has been taken with the launch of the Friends of a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty. The group aims to prevent a nuclear arms race and reduce the global nuclear threat.
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| Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, and the United Kingdom have joined forces to promote the negotiation of a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty. The treaty would ban the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons. Symbolic Image |
Canberra, Australia – September 23, 2024:
Towards nuclear disarmament, a new group, the Friends of a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT), was launched on Monday. The group, comprising Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, and the United Kingdom, aims to promote the negotiation and adoption of an FMCT.
An FMCT would ban the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons and other nuclear explosive devices. This would be a crucial step in preventing a nuclear arms race and reducing the global nuclear threat. The group emphasized the importance of such a treaty in ensuring a safer and more secure world for future generations.
Foreign Minister of Australia, Penny Wong, expressed her country's unwavering commitment to the FMCT. She stated, "Australia is a strong advocate for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. An FMCT is a vital step towards achieving these goals. We believe that it is in the best interests of all countries to work together to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons."
The launch of the Friends of FMCT comes at a critical time. Despite decades of efforts, the negotiation of an FMCT has been stalled. The group's formation is a clear signal of renewed international interest in addressing this issue.
The group will work to raise awareness of the importance of an FMCT and to build support for its negotiation. They will also engage with other countries and international organizations to advance the cause of nuclear disarmament.
In addition to the eight founding members, the Friends of FMCT are open to other countries joining the group. The group hopes to attract a broad coalition of states that share their commitment to a nuclear-free world.
The launch of the Friends of FMCT is a positive development. It represents a renewed effort by like-minded countries to address the global nuclear threat. By working together, the group can help to pave the way for the negotiation and adoption of an FMCT, which would be a significant step towards a more peaceful and secure world.