Minister of Foreign Affairs marks 50th anniversary of Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons

March 5, 2020 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:

“Fifty years ago today, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons [NPT] entered into force. As a critical part of the rules-based international order, the NPT continues to promote international peace and security by limiting the spread of the world’s most destructive weapons.

“Since its entry into force, Canada’s commitment to the NPT has been unwavering. The Treaty has been instrumental in facilitating cooperation on the peaceful uses of nuclear technology.

 “In keeping with today’s challenges, Canada advocates for an inclusive approach to advancing the goals of the NPT.  In this regard, we are committed to continue engaging with youth and promoting the full, equal and meaningful participation of women in all aspects of disarmament and non-proliferation. Youth and women can be a positive force for change and have the right to an active voice on issues that impact their safety and security.

 “We will also continue to work together with all stakeholders, including states and civil society, in efforts to reinforce the importance and continued relevance of the NPT.

“Canada will continue to promote the NPT’s universalization, including through participation in the upcoming 2020 NPT Review Conference. We firmly believe that further advancements on nuclear disarmament will contribute to international peace and security and prosperity.”

Quick facts

• The NPT was opened for signature on July 1, 1968, and came into force on March 5, 1970. It remains the only global treaty that advances nuclear disarmament, limits the spread of nuclear weapons and recognizes the inalienable right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.
• Canada signed the NPT on July 23, 1968 and ratified on January 8, 1969.
• To date, 191 states have joined the NPT, including 5 recognized nuclear-weapon states (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States). The NPT requires these 5 states to pursue negotiations relating to the cessation of the nuclear arms race and to nuclear disarmament.
• In accordance with the NPT, the International Atomic Energy Agency oversees a robust global safeguards regime, enhancing confidence that states’ nuclear programs are exclusively peaceful in nature.
• The next NPT review conference will take place from April 27 to May 22, 2020, at the United Nations Headquarters, in New York.

Related links

• Canada and the nuclear non-proliferation treaty