On Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres passionately advocated for a permanent ban on nuclear testing in his observance message for the International Day against Nuclear Tests, celebrated annually on August 29.
Guterres highlighted the grim legacy of nearly eight decades of nuclear testing, with over 2,000 tests conducted at more than 60 sites worldwide. He emphasized the devastating impact, stating that these tests have left lands uninhabitable and caused long-term health issues for countless individuals.
The UN chief expressed concern over recent calls to resume nuclear testing, warning that the crucial lessons from the past are being forgotten or ignored. He stressed the importance of collective action, saying, \"On the International Day against Nuclear Tests, the world must speak with one voice to end this practice once and for all.\"
Guterres pointed to the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty as the only existing prohibition on all forms of nuclear testing. He lamented that the treaty is not yet in force and called on all necessary countries to ratify it immediately and without conditions. \"In the name of the victims of nuclear tests and future generations, I call on all countries whose ratifications are needed for the Treaty to enter into force to do so – immediately and without conditions,\" he urged. He concluded with a heartfelt appeal, saying, \"Let's pass the test for humanity – and ban nuclear testing for good.\"
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
