Bahrain Pushes for a Nuclear-Free Middle East

Bahrain has reiterated its steadfast commitment to creating a nuclear weapons-free zone in the Middle East, as part of efforts to ensure regional and global peace and security. This stance aligns with the 1995 Resolution of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) Review and Extension Conference.

This declaration was made by Bahrain's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Jamal Al-Ruwaie, during the general discussion of the fifth session of the Conference on Establishing a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and Other Weapons of Mass Destruction, held in New York. The statement was reported by the Bahrain News Agency (BNA) on Tuesday.

Ambassador Al-Ruwaie emphasized the significance of collaboration among member states in the peaceful use of nuclear energy across critical developmental and humanitarian fields. He highlighted the role of nuclear technology in achieving sustainable development goals by promoting the exchange of nuclear knowledge and technology between industrialized and developing nations, thereby expanding the peaceful applications of nuclear energy.

Furthermore, Al-Ruwaie underscored the need for transparency in the development of peaceful nuclear energy programs, ensuring that advancements are based on logical needs. He also called for close cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) regarding nuclear activities and facilities in the region to guarantee a Middle East free from weapons of mass destruction.