Bahrain participates in third session of preparatory committee for 2026 NPT Review Conference
New York, May. 2 (BNA): The Kingdom of Bahrain underscored its commitment to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) as a cornerstone for promoting nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
This statement was delivered by Ambassador Jamal Fares Al Ruwaie, Bahrain's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, during the general debate of the third session of the Preparatory Committee for the 2026 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.
Ambassador Al Ruwaie emphasised the importance of the NPT and related agreements, including the Convention on Nuclear Safety, the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism, the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and its Additional Protocol.
He highlighted that the complete elimination of nuclear weapons, as stipulated in Article VI of the NPT, is the only guarantee against their use or threat of use. He reiterated Bahrain's unwavering support for the inalienable right of states to utilise nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, particularly in health, education, environmental sectors, and clean energy production, in accordance with international law and the NPT.
Ambassador Al Ruwaie called for the development of peaceful nuclear programmes in a transparent and responsible manner to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons. In this context, he welcomed the high-level talks between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran hosted by the Sultanate of Oman this month, aimed at enhancing regional security and stability.
He expressed Bahrain's appreciation for Oman's efforts in supporting constructive dialogue and emphasised the Kingdom's support for all initiatives that promote regional peace and security.
He also underscored the importance of implementing the 1995 NPT Review Conference resolution on establishing a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction. He expressed hope that the annual conference on this initiative would make tangible progress toward this goal.
Ambassador Al Ruwaie expressed optimism for the success of the upcoming 2026 Review Conference through collective cooperation, prioritising shared interests, and overcoming differences to strengthen the international disarmament and non-proliferation regime.
