I am pleased to greet everyone at this important gathering on the critical Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty.

When I attended the Treaty’s 20th anniversary commemoration in Vienna, I said this milestone is a sober reminder that we must bring the Treaty into force.

We have to end the toxic legacy of nuclear testing. We have to free future generations from the shadow of weapons that can destroy all life.

As foreign ministers and senior officials, you must generate the political momentum needed to make the CTBT a legally-binding reality.

I also appeal to the world’s youth to raise their voices and demand action.

States that have yet to ratify should be leaders, not followers – especially States whose ratification is needed for entry-into-force. They must act now.

Twenty years is too long. The United Nations will keep pressing to end nuclear tests and help fulfil the promise of a nuclear-weapon-free future.

Thank you.