Qatar stresses concerted international efforts vital for total nuclear disarmament

New York - Qatar has emphasized the critical importance of collective global efforts to eradicate nuclear weapons entirely. This stance was articulated by Abdullah Nasser Al Kaabi, a member of Qatar's delegation, during the 81st session of the First Committee of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Al Kaabi pointed out that the creation of nuclear weapons or the threat of their deployment, especially the practice among certain nations to integrate these weapons into their military and security frameworks, coupled with ongoing testing and their delivery mechanisms, exacerbates global tensions and undermines international peace and security.

He stressed that adherence to treaties prohibiting, preventing the use of, and eliminating nuclear weapons is paramount, with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) being the foremost agreement. Al Kaabi reaffirmed Qatar's backing for the seventh session of the UN Conference aimed at establishing a Middle East zone devoid of nuclear and other mass destruction weapons, set to take place in November under Oman's leadership.

Addressing key disarmament forums, he noted that the 11th Review Conference of the NPT, held from April 27 to May 22, did not reach a consensus on a final document. Additionally, he mentioned that the UN Disarmament Commission, the primary platform for disarmament discussions, also failed to achieve consensus-based recommendations across three successive sessions.

Concerning the peaceful utilization of nuclear energy, a fundamental and non-negotiable right for member states under Article IV of the NPT, Al Kaabi highlighted the significance of stringent compliance with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) comprehensive safeguards. He also mentioned that IAEA's technical cooperation programs play a crucial role in knowledge transfer, capacity building, and maintaining nuclear safety and security standards.

Turning to bilateral cooperation, Al Kaabi noted that Qatar maintains strong institutional and technical links with the Agency, including Qatar's past participation as a member of the IAEA Board of Governors. He pointed out a partnership agreement signed on September 26, 2025, between Qatar, through the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), and the Agency, totaling USD 600,000 to support technical cooperation initiatives aimed at enhancing radiomedical services in Syria, showcasing Qatar's dedication to humanitarian and developmental objectives.

Finally, Al Kaabi welcomed the decision by the IAEA Board of Governors to close Syria's non-compliance file and remove the country from the list of non-compliant states, a notable step that will allow Syria to resume its regular standing within the Agency.