Statement by Mr. Arsen Kotanjyan First Secretary of the Permanent Mission of Armenia to the United Nations, at the General Debate of the 3rd PrepCom for Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons Treaty Review Conference

29 April, 2025

Mr. Chair,

Armenia remains firmly committed to fulfilling its obligations under the NPT, which is a cornerstone of international security architecture and a landmark international document.

The full, comprehensive and effective implementation of all pillars of the NPT, namely non-proliferation, disarmament and peaceful use is of immense importance. They are equally important and mutually reinforcing. We, reiterate our firm support for the full, complete, and effective implementation of the NPT and call upon the States that have not yet done so to join the NPT as non-nuclear weapon States.

In view of the emerging nuclear security threats, Armenia is consistently improving its nuclear security regime in close cooperation with its partners and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

The safe use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes is, and will be a priority policy for Armenia. Driven by the successful uphold of high standards of safety and security in the operation of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant and with an ultimate goal of smooth transition to a new capacity by 2036, Armenia opted for a transparent and open policy for safe and peaceful uses of nuclear energy and will continue to pursue this policy further. In this respect we appreciate the crucial role of the cooperation with International Atomic Energy Agency through its safeguards agreements and additional protocol, as well as its technical assistance program.

International cooperation has been playing an essential role in Armenia’s efforts to improve the physical protection regime. Thanks to such cooperation, the Armenian nuclear power plant has been implementing a number of projects for the enhancement of nuclear security at the facility level in line with relevant recommendations of the IAEA. Major efforts have been undertaken to ensure strong border control to prevent the trafficking of nuclear and radioactive material and to enhance the nuclear security also at national and regional levels. Armenia values the IAEA’s key role in facilitating international cooperation on matters relating to nuclear security.

Armenia reiterates its principal position that nuclear facilities dedicated to peaceful purposes and other associated facilities should under no circumstances become the target of an armed attack or a threat of attack. Armenia believes that the international community should be seized by proactive stance to achieve viable national mechanisms and the necessary level of international cooperation.

The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty is another fundamental instrument that contributes to international security and disarmament. In view of the current global security situation, we reaffirm our unwavering support for the objectives of the CTBT and encourage Annex 2 states to sign and ratify the Treaty.

Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zones are an important regional approach to strengthening global nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament norms and consolidating international efforts towards peace and security. Armenia reaffirms its full support for the establishment of nuclear weapons free zone in the Middle East.

Mr. Chair,

We believe the NPT Review Conference can provide a unique opportunity for the international community to express its united commitment to the values and principles of the NPT, demonstrating necessary flexibility and prioritizing the global interest over the national agendas.

Ensuring peace and international security is a collective endeavor that serves the common interests of all and demands sustained commitment and genuine determination. Armenia remains steadfast in its commitment to pursuing negotiated multilateral solutions, promoting dialogue, and strengthening international cooperation to advance peace and security.

Thank you.

MFA RA
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