National statement at the 2026 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons

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Chair,

Sweden aligns itself with EU's statement. The following remarks are in my national capacity.

I want to congratulate you on your appointment, Chair. We look forward to a Review Conference under your leadership, and we will fully support you in your endeavours.

The challenges facing the NPT are many. Mistrust among states has increased and rhetoric has hardened. If we are to reach the ultimate goal of a world free from nuclear weapons, adherence to international law and leadership to change the dynamic is necessary. We must work to uphold and strengthen the Treaty as the cornerstone of the global nuclear non-proliferation.

The nuclear weapon States bear a special responsibility in the pursuit of a world free from nuclear weapons. Engaging in arms control discussions without preconditions would be an important step in building trust. We welcome US efforts to initiate dialogue and urge Russia and China to engage without preconditions.

However, all states can play a role in the area of disarmament and non-proliferation. Against this backdrop, Sweden together with the Philippines, has assumed the presidency of the CTBT Article XIV process since September last year. The entry into force of the CTBT continues to be of crucial importance.

Chair,

Sweden condemns in the strongest terms Russia’s brutal war of aggression against Ukraine and reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, political independance and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. Russia’s on-going aggression is a flagrant violation of international law, including the UN Charter and IAEA Statute. Russia's threats to use nuclear weapons, as well as its illegal seizure of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and actions against Ukraine’s other nuclear facilities, are irresponsible and unacceptable.

Iran and DPRK represent additional challenges to the NPT. While Iran must never be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon, it is crucial that DPRK complies with international obligations and takes steps towards denuclearization in line with UNSC resolutions.

Chair,

The Stockholm Initiative for Nuclear Disarmament was launched by Sweden in 2019 to mobilize political support for concrete progress on disarmament.

Together we have worked continuously to emphasize cross-regional cooperation and to build political support for disarmament and consensus to strengthen the NPT.

Efforts to reduce the risk of nuclear weapons use are more urgent than ever. While not a substitute for disarmament, risk reduction can decrease tensions, increase trust, and open avenues for dialogue.

Chair,

The IAEA plays an indispensable role in the NPT and must have the necessary verification tools. We value the safe and effective application of nuclear technologies for peaceful purposes in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Chair,

This conference should send a strong signal reaffirming our commitment to the NPT.  This is  important to reverse the weakning of the ADN architecture and move us towards full implementation of the Treaty. It is time to show political leadership. We owe this to ourselves and to future generations.

Thank you!