New York30. All States possess the right “to develop the peaceful use of nuclear energy, in full compliance with their non-proliferation obligations”. However, “the highest standards of safety, protection and environmental responsibility” are necessary, since “the protection of nuclear facilities, especially in situations of armed conflict, is an urgent concern for the international community”. This is what was reiterated by the Holy See on 29 April in New York, through a statement from the Permanent Observation Mission to the UN on the occasion of the Eleventh Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (27 April – 22 May).
In the current moment “of profound gravity for the international community”, in which the re-emergence of the “rhetoric contemplating the use of nuclear weapons” is looming, it is indicated, “international cooperation, in particular through the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is essential”. A peaceful use of nuclear energy, explains the Holy See, contributes to development, the promotion of relationships of trust and cooperation, “placed at the service of human dignity and the common good”.
Faced with the current “serious challenges”, the conclusion is, the international community is called to respond to its responsibilities, following the indications of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, to prevent “fear from becoming the foundation of security” and therefore “a permanent characteristic of international relations”.
