Norway expresses strong support for an Arms Trade Treaty

At an open meeting at UN Headquarters in New York on 23 April Ambassador Mona Juul warmly welcomed the General Assembly’s adoption last December of  a resolution taking the first step towards a legally binding Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). Norway co-sponsored the resolution and is prepared to take an active part in the follow-up.

 

Achieving a global instrument covering trade in conventional arms is a prime foreign policy objective of the Norwegian Government. The absence of common international standards on the export, import and transfer of conventional weapons is a contributory factor to conflict, displacement of people, crime and not least terrorism. This undermines peace reconciliation, safety, security, stability and sustainable development.  An ATT must also reflect the obligation under the UN Charter to promote and observe human rights and fundamental freedoms; including civil, political, economic and social rights.