New york: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has called for the establishment of nuclear-weapon-free zones, particularly in the Middle East and South Asia. “We renew our call for the establishment of nuclear-weapon-free zones, particularly in the Middle East and South Asia,” he said while addressing the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly here today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Prof Yunus also called for the revival of global arms control treaties that have grown weaker with time. “At the same time, we affirm the right of every nation to use nuclear energy peacefully, with full transparency,” he said.
Highlighting the global scenario, the chief adviser noted that this year, conflicts have scarred almost every corner of the globe, including Europe, South Asia, and the Middle East. “We live in the most densely populated region of the world. Nowhere else do so many nuclear-armed states exist in such close proximity,” he said. This reality, he explained, underscores Bangladesh’s deep understanding of the urgency of disarmament and the prevention of nuclear proliferation.
Prof Yunus further stated that as a responsible nation, even before commissioning its first nuclear power plant, Bangladesh acceded to the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management under the IAEA this year. “By doing so, we reaffirm our commitment to the highest standards of nuclear safety and transparency,” he added.