Pakistan Blocks India-Proposed '2024 Program Of Work' At Conference Of Disarmament In Geneva — All About It

In a latest development, Pakistan has obstructed the adoption of the '2024 Program of Work' proposed by India during its presidency at the Conference of Disarmament (CD) in Geneva.

Despite the absence of any reference to the Fissile-Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT) in India's proposal, Pakistan's opposition effectively derailed the program.

A fissile material cut-off treaty (FMCT) is a proposed international agreement that would prohibit the production of the two main components of nuclear weapons: highly-enriched uranium (HEU) and plutonium.

A veteran disarmament diplomat expressed frustration, labeling Pakistan's actions as "bloody-mindedness" without substantive reason, reported Hindustan Times.

India, during its month-long presidency from 21 January to 20 February had formulated the proposal after extensive consultations.

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The last Program of Work adopted by CD Geneva dates back to 2022.

Pakistan's reluctance to sign the FMCT, citing concerns about its military posture vis-à-vis India, has been a persistent obstacle.

Despite support from major powers like the US, France, Russia, UK, and even China, Pakistan's opposition thwarted the consensus.

However, the exact reasons behind Pakistan's blockade remained unclear, with diplomats speculating that it aimed to prevent India from achieving consensus on its proposal.

While India attempted to accommodate Pakistan's concerns regarding the FMCT in the proposed Program of Work, Pakistan's representative accused certain delegations of trying to limit CD's mandate to FMCT negotiations.

In response, the Indian representative highlighted efforts to compromise and address Pakistan's considerations in the proposal.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's ally China has refrained from criticizing its actions.

In his statement, the Chinese envoy stated, “ The consideration is done on the basis of consensus not on the basis of consensus minus one or consensus minus few. China understands the importance of expeditiously moving to substantive work in a comprehensive and balanced manner, fully respecting differences and the red lines of delegations."

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