New Zealand to lead in signing of international Arms Trade Treaty

New Zealand will lead the way as one of the first countries to sign the landmark Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) adopted by the United Nations last month, a move welcomed by international aid agency Oxfam.

The Treaty, which opens for signature in New York today, is the first of its kind providing legally binding global rules to regulate the international flow of weapons, preventing them from escalating conflict and fuelling atrocities.

Oxfam, a principle member of the Control Arms Coalition, has campaigned for the last decade to achieve robust rules on international arms transfers.

Barry Coates, Executive Director of Oxfam New Zealand, said, “Oxfam welcomes New Zealand’s commitment to achieving a powerful and effective ATT. We particularly welcome the strong position New Zealand has taken regarding the scope and implementation of the treaty, as well as the support provided to Pacific States throughout the process.

“For many regions affected by armed violence, including the Pacific, this treaty represents a major step forward in securing a safer future.

“We are now looking forward to the opening of signature at the UN in New York today. As we enter the next critical phase for the ATT, New Zealand is in a unique position to lead by example on the international stage and set a precedent for future signatories whilst providing further support to Pacific States to enable them to sign and ratify the treaty as soon as possible.

“Oxfam congratulates New Zealand in being amongst the first States to sign and implement the Arms Trade Treaty and we look forward to curbing the deadly impact of the unregulated arms trade in our region and beyond,” said Coates.

ENDS

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