Statement by First Secretary Ms. Yuko Mizuno at the 67th session of Working Group A
2025/5/22
Thank you, Chair.
I would like to begin by expressing my most sincere appreciation, Chair, for your tireless leadership in guiding Working Group A (WGA), as well as to the PTS for its steadfast commitment to the work at hand.
Additionally, I extend my gratitude to Executive Secretary Dr. Robert Floyd for his insightful opening remarks.
[Entry-Into-Force and Universalization]
Chair,
Japan underscores the indispensable role of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) as both a pragmatic and strategic instrument for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. As part of our unwavering commitment to advancing this cause, we strongly call on all States that have yet to ratify the Treaty—particularly the remaining nine Annex 2 States—to expedite their ratification. The Treaty’s entry into force remains critical for the establishment of a robust international security framework.
[Financial Position and IMS Sustainment Strategy]
At the heart of the CTBT’s mission lies the International Monitoring System (IMS), a cornerstone of the verification regime essential for detecting nuclear tests. Japan maintains a stance of Zero Nominal Growth (ZNG) regarding the budgets of international organizations. Nevertheless, we remain fully committed to engaging in constructive discussions with State Signatories to achieve consensus on the IMS sustainment strategy, which should aim to strike a balance between fiscal discipline and operational effectiveness. We also encourage the PTS to continue its efforts to enhance efficiency, thereby alleviating any potential financial burdens.
[Human Resources]
Turning now to human resources, Japan recognizes the paramount importance of fostering fair representation within the organization. We call for a renewed focus on advancing the empowerment of women and addressing regional disparities in staffing, particularly in managing positions. These efforts are essential for optimizing PTS’ effectiveness and overall performance.
[External Auditor]
Chair,
We are encouraged by the number of candidacies for the role of external auditor. Effective and transparent audits are crucial to sound organizational governance and should be conducted in a constructive spirit. Japan concurs with the view that cost-effectiveness and the availability of additional resources should be key considerations in implementing any audit recommendations.
[Challenges Against the Nuclear Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Regime]
Chair,
Japan expresses serious concerns over the advancement of North Korea’s nuclear and missile development. We urge North Korea not to conduct any further destabilizing or provocative actions, including a nuclear test. Japan also urges North Korea to comply with its obligations under the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, to return to full compliance with the NPT and to sign and ratify the CTBT at the earliest possible date.
[Closing Remarks]
In conclusion, Japan reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the objectives of the CTBT and looks forward to working closely with the international community to realize these shared aspirations.
I would like to begin by expressing my most sincere appreciation, Chair, for your tireless leadership in guiding Working Group A (WGA), as well as to the PTS for its steadfast commitment to the work at hand.
Additionally, I extend my gratitude to Executive Secretary Dr. Robert Floyd for his insightful opening remarks.
[Entry-Into-Force and Universalization]
Chair,
Japan underscores the indispensable role of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) as both a pragmatic and strategic instrument for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. As part of our unwavering commitment to advancing this cause, we strongly call on all States that have yet to ratify the Treaty—particularly the remaining nine Annex 2 States—to expedite their ratification. The Treaty’s entry into force remains critical for the establishment of a robust international security framework.
[Financial Position and IMS Sustainment Strategy]
At the heart of the CTBT’s mission lies the International Monitoring System (IMS), a cornerstone of the verification regime essential for detecting nuclear tests. Japan maintains a stance of Zero Nominal Growth (ZNG) regarding the budgets of international organizations. Nevertheless, we remain fully committed to engaging in constructive discussions with State Signatories to achieve consensus on the IMS sustainment strategy, which should aim to strike a balance between fiscal discipline and operational effectiveness. We also encourage the PTS to continue its efforts to enhance efficiency, thereby alleviating any potential financial burdens.
[Human Resources]
Turning now to human resources, Japan recognizes the paramount importance of fostering fair representation within the organization. We call for a renewed focus on advancing the empowerment of women and addressing regional disparities in staffing, particularly in managing positions. These efforts are essential for optimizing PTS’ effectiveness and overall performance.
[External Auditor]
Chair,
We are encouraged by the number of candidacies for the role of external auditor. Effective and transparent audits are crucial to sound organizational governance and should be conducted in a constructive spirit. Japan concurs with the view that cost-effectiveness and the availability of additional resources should be key considerations in implementing any audit recommendations.
[Challenges Against the Nuclear Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Regime]
Chair,
Japan expresses serious concerns over the advancement of North Korea’s nuclear and missile development. We urge North Korea not to conduct any further destabilizing or provocative actions, including a nuclear test. Japan also urges North Korea to comply with its obligations under the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, to return to full compliance with the NPT and to sign and ratify the CTBT at the earliest possible date.
[Closing Remarks]
In conclusion, Japan reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the objectives of the CTBT and looks forward to working closely with the international community to realize these shared aspirations.