Kazakhstan Leads UN Nuclear Weapons Ban Conference to Successful Conclusion
The Third Conference of States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) recently concluded in Astana, chaired by Kazakhstan. The conference, held at UN headquarters, saw constructive dialogue and consensus on key documents to strengthen the implementation of the treaty.
Delegates at the conference reaffirmed their global commitment to nuclear disarmament, adopting a Political Declaration that condemned nuclear threats and highlighted the severe humanitarian and environmental consequences of nuclear weapons. First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Akan Rakhmetullin emphasized the immediate need for nuclear disarmament, citing past devastations and urging for urgent action.
One of the significant outcomes of the conference was the approval of a proposal to establish an International Trust Fund by Kazakhstan and Kiribati. This initiative aims to assist victims of nuclear weapons use and testing while supporting environmental rehabilitation of contaminated areas. Plans are underway to finalize the fund’s framework by mid-2026 and launch it at the 2026 TPNW Review Conference.
Participants also agreed on measures to expand the number of TPNW states parties and enhance cooperation with various stakeholders to advance disarmament efforts. Kazakhstan was commended for its leadership and commitment to nuclear disarmament under President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
Thematic events and exhibitions on nuclear disarmament were also featured at the conference. Kazakhstan’s side event, “Semipalatinsk Test Site: The Cost of Nuclear Weapons – A Warning to the World,” showcased contributions from various organizations and personal accounts from witnesses and survivors of nuclear testing.
Kazakhstan’s presidency at the conference highlighted its leading role in the global anti-nuclear movement. As a country that voluntarily renounced its nuclear arsenal and closed the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site, Kazakhstan remains a pioneer in the fight against nuclear weapons.
The TPNW, adopted in 2017 and entering into force in 2021, is the first legally binding international mechanism aimed at eliminating nuclear weapons. Kazakhstan’s effective leadership at the conference further solidified its reputation as a middle power with an independent and balanced foreign policy.
