Regional Conference in Bishkek marks International Day for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness

The event brought together over 100 participants, including government officials, diplomats, representatives of international organizations, non-governmental organizations, academics, students, and experts. The conference provided a platform for dialogue on the importance of education in advancing peace and security, with a focus on disarmament and non-proliferation.

The conference builds on the Kyrgyz Republic’s leadership in promoting the International Day for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness, which was unanimously adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2022. Discussions highlighted the need to strengthen regional cooperation, promote dialogue among stakeholders, and integrate Central Asia’s experience, including the Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone, into educational programs.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Asein Isaev, the First Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic, highlighted the country’s commitment to promoting peace and security. “The International Day for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness was established at the initiative of the Kyrgyz Republic. Today’s event reaffirms our commitment to advancing these goals and fostering dialogue to strengthen education for peace and security.”

Ms. Biljana Milosevic, the Head of the ICRC Regional Delegation in Central Asia, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in addressing global security challenges. “This regional conference takes place at a time when an increasing number of countries and communities are affected by armed conflicts, and civilians bear the brunt of the consequences, despite the protections afforded to them under international humanitarian law. Central Asia is setting a powerful example through its commitment to disarmament, including the Central Asia Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone Treaty and its growing participation in the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.”

The conference concluded with the adoption of the Bishkek Declaration, which reiterated the need for collective action to promote disarmament and non-proliferation and called on governments, international organizations, and civil society to work together to achieve these objectives.