Statement by the United Kingdom at the 1st Session of the Conference on the Establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and Other WMD

Statement by the United Kingdom at the 1st Session of the Conference on the Establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and Other WMD

The United Kingdom asserts its support for the establishment of a ME WMDFZ. Nonetheless, it expresses its disappointment that the UN General Assembly mandated conference was tabled by the Arab Group without the support of all regional states and with some of the remarks made by the states in the 1st session. The United Kingdom highlights the importance of dialogue and consensus. The United Kingdom also notes several regional security concerns it had in the Middle East, including with Syrian chemical weapons and the Iranian nuclear programme, stressing the role of international treaties and organizations. Finally, the statement expresses hope that the conference would contribute towards a successful 10th NPT Review Conference.