The main objective of the Amman forum is to lay the grounds for a successful conference in 2012 on the creation of weapons of mass destruction- free zone in the Middle East. Such an achievement would be a major step towards a more nuclear secure world and a sustainable peace in the Middle East. It would furthermore enhance cooperation and development in the in the region and is something Norway is eager to support. Five nuclear free zones exist in the world today: Latin America and the Caribbean, the South Pacific, Southeast Asia, Africa and Central Asia.
Norway is a firm believer of a world without nuclear weapons. We believe a world free from nuclear weapons is a common global goal that if reached, would enhance the security for us all.
In his opening speech, the Ambassador emphasized how the situation in the Middle East plays a key role within the global political setting. He recognized that nuclear weapons will not go away easily, but rather through careful negotiations and multilateral efforts.
“Significant non- proliferation challenges lie before us in the Middle East today. The Non- Proliferation Treaty is the best international tool available for achieving long term nuclear stability in the region. That is why Norway would very much like to see all states become parties to the NPT” said the Ambassador.
Norway is also a supporter of the IAEA forum in Vienna on a Middle East Nuclear Free Zone and a significant contributor to the UN Office of Disarmament