NEW YORK: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has voiced deep disappointment after a major global conference on nuclear non-proliferation concluded without reaching a consensus agreement, warning that growing international tensions have increased the threat posed by nuclear weapons.
In a statement issued by UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, Guterres said the 11th Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) failed to deliver a meaningful outcome at a time when the world urgently needed stronger cooperation on disarmament and global security.
The NPT, regarded as the cornerstone of international efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons, also seeks to promote nuclear disarmament and ensure the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
While acknowledging the constructive participation of member states during the conference, the UN chief regretted that the gathering fell short of producing concrete progress amid mounting global instability and security concerns.
Guterres stressed that the current international climate, marked by deep geopolitical divisions and heightened nuclear risks, requires urgent diplomatic engagement. He urged countries to intensify dialogue, negotiations, and diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and preventing nuclear escalation.
The UN chief reiterated that achieving a world free of nuclear weapons remains the organisation’s top disarmament priority and praised conference president Do Hung Viet for his efforts and leadership throughout the talks.
