SECRETARY-GENERAL SAYS NEW US DEFENCE POLICY, INCLUDING PLANS FOR MISSILE DEFENCES, IMPACTS ON GLOBAL SECURITY AND STRATEGIC STABILITY

SECRETARY-GENERAL SAYS NEW US DEFENCE POLICY, INCLUDING PLANS FOR MISSILE

DEFENCES, IMPACTS ON GLOBAL SECURITY AND STRATEGIC STABILITY

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General has noted the proposals of the President of the United States of America for a new defence policy, including the establishment of missile defences.  These plans inevitably impact upon global security and strategic stability, and the Secretary-General welcomes the readiness of the United States Administration to consult with other members of the international community.

The Secretary-General believes that, in promoting respect for the rule of law in international affairs, there is a need to consolidate and build upon existing disarmament and non-proliferation agreements, specifically to prevent a new arms race and to maintain the non-weaponized status of outer space.

In this context, the Secretary-General appeals to all States to engage in negotiations towards legally binding disarmament agreements that are both verifiable and irreversible.

* *** *