On Monday, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul advocated for the universal application of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, but warned that as long as gestures of nuclear threat persist, credible deterrence will be necessary to protect Europe.
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Before departing for New York for the United Nations Security Council debate on international maritime security, Wadephul stressed that the nuclear issue is a central focus of the agenda, particularly due to its role in tensions with Iran.
“We want to ensure that the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty achieves universal validity, even though this is becoming increasingly difficult,” he stated.
He added that the conference will offer an opportunity to explore ways to secure the achievements of the pact and analyze prospects for nuclear disarmament.
“But as long as gestures of nuclear threat against us and our allies continue, we will continue to need credible deterrence,” the minister noted, without specifying which country he was referring to.
Wadephul also alluded to the situation in the Middle East, where the blockade of the strategic Strait of Hormuz demonstrates the vulnerability of global supply routes.
“Without energy and fertilizer, the world’s food supply is in grave danger. That is why today in New York I will advocate for the Security Council to fulfill its role,” he asserted.
The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, in force since 1970 and with nearly two hundred signatory countries, allows five powers—the United States, the United Kingdom, France, China, and Russia, permanent members of the UN Security Council—to possess nuclear weapons.
[ SOURCE: teleSUR ]
