In Hiroshima on 24 August, at an international meeting on the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), State Secretary for Foreign Affairs István Mikola said that it is imperative that a complete ban on nuclear testing becomes generally applicable and legally binding.

The State Secretary said that the fact that the meeting is being held in the Japanese city almost exactly 70 years after the atomic bombings is not only particularly timely but also symbolic. He stressed the active role assumed by Hungary over the last two years as one of the rotating coordinating partners. He said that this is exemplified, for example, by the CTBT forum held last May at Hungary’s permanent office in Vienna, at which a total of forty experts and ambassadors from twenty countries were present. The ratification of the Treaty by Indonesia also took place at this forum. Hungary’s relations with African states which are yet to ratify the Treaty are of particular importance to Hungarian foreign affairs as a geographical priority.

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The State Secretary said that even though the steps taken in recent years towards complete nuclear disarmament have been less significant than expected (as many have not yet signed the Treaty), there is reason for optimism in the fact that more than one hundred states have issued statements confirming their commitment and support for the CTBT.

“We must find more synergies and develop more nuclear-weapon-free zones. The critical mass thus created can provide impetus for further steps forward”, Mr. Mikola said. He added that the recent nuclear deal with Iran also increases hope for the Treaty’s future entry into force. Further steps towards the finalisation of the CTBT have to be made on the basis of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), and by advocating nuclear disarmament in most forums.

“As a doctor, I am fully aware of the consequences suffered – in 1945 and subsequently – with the destruction of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Therefore, in promoting the cause of a complete ban on nuclear testing, the message of Hiroshima must be stronger and louder than all else”, the State Secretary said.

(Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade)