2000 Review Conference to Non-Proliferation Treaty – Nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Mideast – Report by Canada

New York, 28 April-9 May 2003

Steps to promote the achievement of a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East and the realization of the goals and objectives of the 1995 Resolution on the Middle East

Report submitted by Canada

1. At the 57th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Canada supported the First Committee resolution on the Establishment of a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the region of the Middle East.  While Israel maintains a policy of nuclear ambiguity, it is widely assumed to have developed a significant nuclear weapons capability.  Canada has stated that it is convinced that this program is not in the long-term interests of Israel, of regional stability and of global security.  Canada has called upon Israel to accede to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) as a non-nuclear-weapon State.    

2. Canada has also called for full adherence and compliance with the Treaty by States parties in the region, and notes that six States in the region have not concluded comprehensive safeguards agreements with the IAEA.  In addition, Canada has observed that all states in the region could further contribute to regional stability and security by demonstrating greater openness and transparency through the conclusion of Additional Protocols to their respective safeguards agreements. Canada, in accordance with its obligations under United Nations Security Council Resolution 1441 (2002), provided assistance to the United Nations Monitoring, Verification and Inspection Commission (UNMOVIC) and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors in Iraq.

3. Canada is a strong supporter of the Middle East peace process, and plays a role in the multilateral aspect of this process as Chair of the Refugee Working Group.  Canada fully supports the continuing efforts of the Quartet towards implementation of the Road Map.

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