Vienna, 14 December 2021 (TDI): The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Australia, Marise Payne visited the headquarters of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), in Vienna. During her visit, she met with Robert Floyd, the Executive Secretary of CTBTO.

The Executive Secretary appreciated the support of Australia for the organization. The two entities collaborate on various pivotal issues. He lauded Marise Payne on her proactive support and role regarding the issues pertaining to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).

The Australian Foreign Minister is a staunch advocate of women’s role in the disarmament field as well as the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The two discussed strategies to advance the CTBT universalization as well as the upcoming 10th NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty) Review Conference.

Whilst, Foreign Minister Payne on her part reiterated that Australia benefits from a robust multilateral system. A system, through which all states can contribute to maintaining the international rules-based order, will benefit all. During the meeting, she discussed Australia’s ongoing and long-term contribution to nuclear testing.

Since the 1980s, Australia has advocated a ban on nuclear weapons tests at a high political level. It has continued to support the CTBT as well as the CTBTO. Moreover, it has co-chaired the Friends of the CTBT Ministerial process. It is also leading the annual UNGA CTBT resolution.

CTBTO, a multilateral body was established to support compliance and implementation of the CTBT, which bans all nuclear weapons test explosions anywhere. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the CTBT’s opening for signature.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR