A Boost to the CTBT’s Entry into Force

Also at the PrepCom, Ambassador Glyn Davies of the United States said that Indonesia’s announcement to move forward with its own ratification was an additional boost to the Treaty’s prospects for early entry into force.

The ambassador said the U.S. administration was committed to seeking the consent of the U.S. Senate to ratify the CTBT and of securing the remaining Annex 2 States necessary for bringing the early entry into force of the Treaty. Ratification by nine outstanding Annex 2 States is still required for the Treaty to enter into force.

“Indonesia’s ratification will be a crucial step towards entry into force of the treaty,” added Tóth. The Executive Secretary warmly welcomed once more the announcement by Indonesia to initiate the ratification process. He said “What has transpired during recent months will have a further positive impact on the future of the Treaty and the work of the [CTBTO].”

Consensus reached on amending Rule 5 of Rules of Procedure; Palestine given Observer Status

Following the “spirit of compromise” demonstrated at the 2010 NPT Review Conference, States were finally able to reach consensus over the issue of Palestine’s representation at CTBTO PrepCom meetings.

In reaching a compromised proposal, the Commission agreed to amend Rule 5 of the Rules of Procedure of the CTBTO. A new paragraph was added to Rule 5 stipulating that entities having been invited to attend sessions of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) would also be included as those who could participate in the CTBTO’s executive meetings and working groups.
Palestine has had observer status at the UNGA since the1990’s. States expressed their support stating the compromised solution would enhance the transparency and accessibility of the CTBT.

PrepCom Approves Directors of the CTBTO

Member States also approved the appointment of Oleg Rozhkov as new director of the On-Site Inspection Division and extended the term of Federico Guendel as director of the International Monitoring System (IMS) Division for another year. Rozhkov has long experience in arms control and international security-issues, and has been the Deputy Director at the Department for Disarmament and Security Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for the Russian Federation since 2005. Guendel has been the director of the IMS Division since August 2006.