4 Conclusion

The Government recognises the serious disarmament challenges we are facing. If the negative trend is to be reversed, the countries that currently possess the largest nuclear arsenals must show leadership. The US and Russia still possess more than 90% of the world’s nuclear weapons. These two countries must therefore lead the way.

At the same time, we must be realistic and acknowledge that the current threat picture is a lot more complex than before. Both new states and terrorist organisations are showing an interest in acquiring nuclear weapons. It is essential that we deal with these challenges as well. Our disarmament and non-proliferation efforts must therefore go hand in hand.

The challenges we are facing are extremely complex, and often touch on the key interests of a large number of countries. The Government will continue to make use of available opportunities to promote progress towards a world in which the security of countries is based more on international cooperation and international law, and less on fear and military power. The Government will also seek to further develop international humanitarian law with a view to reducing the humanitarian suffering caused by war and conflict.

The Government will continue and further strengthen Norway’s active engagement in the area of disarmament and non-proliferation in accordance with the policy lines set out in this report to the Storting.