Namibia backs global nuclear test ban

International relations minister Selma Ashipala-Musavyi has reiterated Namibia’s commitment to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) and to its universalisation.

Speaking in New York, Ashipala-Musavyi said Namibia continues to urge all remaining Annex 2 states to sign and ratify the treaty.

“Thirty years after the treaty opened for signature, its entry into force remains elusive," she said.

In October and November, Namibia will host an integrated field exercise, with more than 220 experts from approximately 60 countries expected to participate and around 180 participants deployed to Namibia.

Approximately 150 tonnes of equipment will be transported from Austria to Namibia by air and sea.

"It is a privilege for Namibia, and one we carry on behalf of Africa, to host the largest and most complex exercise ever undertaken in the field of nuclear disarmament and arms control," the minister said.

-Augetto Graig