Story by Peter Chivhima
ZIMBABWE has called on nuclear-armed states to abandon security competition and prioritise collective security, warning that the continued expansion of nuclear arsenals poses a grave threat to humanity.
The call was made by the Minister of Defence, Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, during the General Debate of the 11th Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on Monday.
Presenting Zimbabwe’s position, Cde Muchinguri-Kashiri said the modernisation and expansion of nuclear arsenals may enhance offensive capabilities, but do not remove the danger of global destruction.
“Enhancing and modernising nuclear arsenals may strengthen offensive capabilities, but it does not eliminate the certainty of mutually assured destruction,” she said.
She warned that any nuclear conflict would have devastating humanitarian and environmental consequences extending far beyond the countries directly involved.
“In the event of a nuclear war, catastrophic humanitarian and environmental consequences would affect every corner of the world,” she said.
Cde Muchinguri-Kashiri reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to international peace, security and nuclear non-proliferation.
She also highlighted Zimbabwe’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term.
“Zimbabwe is determined to serve on the United Nations Security Council in order to contribute more actively to the promotion of international peace and security,” she said.
Zimbabwe is seeking election to the Security Council in polls scheduled for June this year.
