Tunisian Foreign Minister Calls for Urgent Creation of Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in the Middle East
The Tunisian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Tunisians Abroad, Mohamed Ali Nafti, pleaded on Friday from New York for the urgent creation of a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East, describing this initiative as "an urgent necessity for achieving a just and comprehensive peace."
Key Points
- The minister spoke at a high-level UN meeting on the occasion of the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons
- He emphasized that the end of "Zionist occupation" and recognition of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people are "fundamental elements" for achieving this goal
- Nafti called on the international community to take "concrete measures" in favor of nuclear disarmament, warning against the dangers of escalating nuclear threats and the arms race on international peace and security
- The head of Tunisian diplomacy reiterated Tunisia's call on nuclear-armed states to "assume their historical and moral responsibilities" and abandon their nuclear deterrence policies
National Efforts to Develop Peaceful Nuclear Energy
The minister also welcomed national efforts to develop nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, recommending the adoption of new legislative frameworks and the creation of a specialized national body in this field.
Context
Nafti's statement was made on the sidelines of his participation in the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The Tunisian government has consistently advocated for a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East, citing the need for a comprehensive and just peace in the region.
