Vienna, 27 June 2023 (TDI): The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), during the 2023 Science and Technology Conference, noted that Sri Lanka successfully ratified the domestic process of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty.

The Science and Technology Conference (SnT2023) wrapped up on June 23, 2023, following the convergence of over 2,000 scientists, technologists, academics and journalists, including Member State and civil society representatives across the world.

The biennial event offered both in-person and online participation at the historic Hofburg Palace, in Vienna.

It focused on modern advancements and methods in the aspect of nuclear test ban monitoring, on-site inspection, and diverse civil and scientific applications of the data collected by the organization’s global monitoring system.

The CTBTO President Robert Floyd addressed the audience which was followed by statements of support from a line-up of high-level figures, like Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other international officials.

CTBTO Executive Secretary Robert Floyd delivering welcoming remarks

Officials from Somalia also expressed their commitment to the Treaty. The Somalian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abshir Omar Jama Huruse, emphasized the ratification of the Treaty as a viable mechanism to achieve global peace.

Meanwhile, since March 2022, the CTBT has received seven ratifications from across the Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean, Africa and other parts of the world.

The SnT2023’s opening session was accompanied by a high-level discussion on the theme, “CTBT Science and Technology: Benefitting us all.” The panel consisted of five distinguished experts.

The experts analyzed the various ways the International Monitoring System (IMS) benefits humanity, covering both its civil and scientific applications.

During the conference, Ambassador Li Song, Permanent Representative of China to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Vienna, provided valuable insights into the evolution of CTBT, having witnessed the formative stage of the Treaty.

Ambassador Li Song, Permanent Representative of China to the CTBTO speaking

Throughout the conference week, participants were able to partake in a range of technical and scientific panels, e-poster presentations, enlightening talks, and workshops.