RP claims success in leading nuclear treaty review

After four weeks of deliberation, the Philippines claimed success in leading a review of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NNPT). Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo said this after countries adopted a document on the treaty at the end of deliberations. "Today, the world took one bold and determined step towards being rid of nuclear weapons. That step was taken under the firm leadership and guidance of the Philippines," he said in a statement, posted on the Department of Foreign Affairs website. "Because of the leadership of the Philippines, the world will be a much safer place, there is more hope for peace, and there is good reason to dream of a world free from nuclear weapons," he added. But Philippine Representative to the United Nations Libran Cabactulan, the President of the Review Conference, stressed the fight to rid the world of nuclear weapons continues. "Though the negotiations were complex and although some key issues could not be isolated from difficult political realities, I was pleasantly pleased to see a very potent spirit of cooperation and the clear common desire of all participants to work towards success," he said in a separate statement. Romulo said the final document includes two sections, the first containing a thorough review of the NNPT, and the second containing 64 action points to be taken by States-Parties to the Treaty. "These 64 action points are directed at promoting nuclear disarmament, preventing nuclear proliferation, and advancing the right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy," he said. Romulo said the consensus agreement to adopt 64 action points is "historic and unprecedented." He expressed deepest gratitude to the States Parties of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty for their cooperation and their common determination to achieve success. Also, he commended Cabactulan for his leadership and determination. "By steering the Review Conference to a successful conclusion, Ambassador Cabactulan has made a lasting and indelible contribution to global peace and security. He has raised the profile of Philippine diplomacy and enhanced our ability to engage the world," he said. "The success of the Philippines is the success of the world. It is a success for all Filipinos, particularly those in areas of tension and potential conflict. The global Filipino is safer from these weapons because of the successful conclusion today of the Review Conference," he added. Cabactulan said that over the past four weeks, the States Parties achieved a better understanding of each other's positions and a clearer appreciation of the need to strengthen the main pillars of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. "I have listened very carefully to all views presented by States Parties and this document before you is the very best that can be offered given the complexities of the issues and the diverging and sometimes even the diametrically opposed positions taken on some issues," he said. He added the common desire to push nuclear disarmament forward fueled many of the understandings and helped to resolve any remaining differences of opinion on a small number of issues and differences on certain details. "What is important is that this review conference, through the very frank negotiations and the atmosphere of cooperation, not only sustained but also gave a boost to the global momentum towards one day freeing humanity from the scourge of nuclear weapons," he added. — LBG, GMANews.TV