President,
I want to start by expressing my thanks for the messages of
condolence and expressions of sympathy after the passing of His
Majesty King Harald V.
A whole nation is in mourning, and the people of Norway are left
with a deep sense of gratitude for the King’s long life in the service
of Norway.
King Harald taught us that Norway is a country built on trust,
community, and generosity. We are proud to represent abroad the
Norway he stood for.
I would also like to express our condolences to the people of
Nepal and China after the tragic floodings.
President,
On this International Day against Nuclear Tests, Norway reaffirms
its strong commitment to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban
Treaty (CTBT and its entry into force without delay.
The CTBT remains a cornerstone of the global nuclear
disarmament and non-proliferation architecture. By prohibiting all
nuclear test explosions, it has established a powerful
international norm and constrained the development of nuclear
weapons.
Although the Treaty has yet to enter into force, its impact is clear.
Near-universal support for the CTBT and widespread observance
of testing moratoria demonstrate the international community’s
commitment to a permanent ban on nuclear explosions.
Norway also commends the achievements of the Treaty’s
verification regime. The work of the Preparatory Commission has
produced a unique global monitoring and verification system that
strengthens confidence in compliance and enables detection of
nuclear tests worldwide.
The International Monitoring System is one of the CTBT regime’s
greatest assets. Maintaining its effectiveness requires sustainable
funding and careful prioritisation, particularly in the current
financial environment. Norway stands ready to engage
constructively in these discussions.
President,
Thirty years after the CTBT was opened for signature, its entry into
force remains an urgent priority. We call on all States that have not
yet done so to sign and ratify the Treaty.
Norway deeply regrets developments that weaken confidence in
the CTBT regime, including Russia’s revocation of its ratification.
We urge all States to uphold their commitments, preserve the
integrity of the verification regime, and continue supporting the
work of the CTBTO Preparatory Commission.
At a time of growing international tensions and nuclear risks,
safeguarding the norm against nuclear testing is more important
than ever. Any resumption of nuclear testing would be a serious
setback for international security and non-proliferation efforts.
Norway calls on all States to maintain existing moratoria and
refrain from actions that undermine the Treaty’s object and
purpose.
Thank you.