ASEAN Conducting Technical Review On Participation Of Major Powers In SEANWFZ Protocol
By Nabilah Saleh
KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 (Bernama) -- ASEAN is currently conducting a technical review of the participation of major powers in the Protocol to the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ), including the possibility of them placing 'reservations' on their commitments to the treaty.
Foreign Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Amran Mohamed Zin said the measure reflects ASEAN's continued efforts to strengthen global commitment to the principle of nuclear non-proliferation and to make Southeast Asia a fully nuclear weapon-free zone.
'This matter is being reviewed by the SEANWFZ Commission through discussions held at the Senior Officials and Executive Committee levels.
'The main issue is the participation of major powers, depending on whether they can make reservations regarding the protocol,' he said at the media briefing session for the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM) and related meetings here on Sunday.
Amran added that ASEAN continues to serve as a key diplomatic platform to encourage major powers to participate in a safer and more controlled nuclear weapons regime.
'It is indeed the place at the ASEAN level to provide space to the world's major powers to join the SEANWFZ Protocol and become part of the SEANWFZ group itself,' he said.
He emphasised that ASEAN remains committed to the principle of nuclear non-proliferation and ongoing discussions would hopefully pave the way for participation without compromising the fundamental values of the treaty.
'Several important decisions have already been made regarding whether participation can be made or without reservation. We also received indications that progress can be achieved, although it may take quite a long time,' he said.
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