STATEMENT BY MR MARK SEAH DEPUTY PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF SINGAPORE AT THE CONFERENCE ON FACILITATING THE ENTRY INTO FORCE OF THE COMPREHENSIVE NUCLEAR-TEST-BAN TREATY (ARTICLE XIV CONFERENCE) 22 SEPTEMBER 2023

Co-Presidents, Excellencies, Distinguished delegates,

1 I thank the Secretary-General for convening this Conference, which has provided us the opportunity to collectively renew our commitment to the full implementation and entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban-Treaty (CTBT). Singapore welcomes the declaration adopted earlier today, which charts concrete and realistic steps towards this goal.

2 The CTBT is a key pillar of the multilateral nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament architecture. It plays an essential and complementary role to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Together, these two instruments provide measures to address the dangers posed by both horizontal and vertical nuclear proliferation, in a transparent, verifiable manner. We are encouraged by the eight new ratifications of the CTBT since this Conference was last held in 2021. However, we are disappointed that the CTBT is still unable to enter into force, almost three decades after its adoption. We urge all remaining countries, particularly the eight Annex 2 States, to sign and ratify the CTBT as soon as possible.

3 We also commend the Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation, along with the extensive outreach conducted by Executive Secretary Dr Robert Floyd for encouraging new ratifications of the CTBT, as well as operationalising the monitoring and verification mechanism that underpins the CTBT. This includes the installation of over 90% of the International Monitoring System’s network, and the ongoing work to build up on-site inspection capabilities. These practical measures and the availability of independent, verifiable information are crucial to build trust and confidence among Member States and ensure the CTBT’s effectiveness upon its entry into force.

4 Even though the CTBT has yet to enter into force, we have largely achieved an international norm against the testing of nuclear weapons in this century, with only one exception. This has lowered the risk of a nuclear arms race and brought about a more stable and peaceful world. However, this cannot be taken for granted, especially in today’s geopolitical climate. Singapore therefore calls on all Member States to concretise, and not unravel, the important work done under the CTBT and to create a safer world for all.

5 Thank you for your attention.

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