China reaffirmed its commitment to nuclear disarmament anchored in shared global stability during a high-profile address at the UN Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) conference this week. Sun Xiaobo, director-general of the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s Department of Arms Control, urged nations to prioritize \u0022common security over unilateral interests\u0022 to address growing geopolitical tensions.
A Vision for Collective Stability
Speaking at the 2026 NPT Review Conference Preparatory Committee meeting, Sun stressed that security rights and obligations must remain inseparable. He advocated for a \u0022fair and just nuclear non-proliferation regime\u0022 while safeguarding states’ access to peaceful nuclear energy development. The NPT, he noted, faces \u0022unprecedented challenges\u0022 despite its role as the cornerstone of international disarmament efforts.
Critique of Global Strategic Policies
Sun criticized what he called \u0022Cold War-era approaches\u0022 by certain nations, pointing to nuclear arsenal modernization, strategic military alliances, and missile deployments near other countries’ borders. Such actions, he argued, accelerate arms races and erode trust among major powers. He specifically called on nuclear-armed states to reduce stockpiles \u0022verifiably and irreversibly\u0022 under binding agreements.
China’s Unwavering Policy
Highlighting China’s no-first-use nuclear policy maintained since 1964, Sun emphasized Beijing’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and opposition to unilateral sanctions. \u0022Nuclear technology should foster shared prosperity, not division,\u0022 he stated, endorsing initiatives like the \u0022Atoms for Global South\u0022 while condemning export restrictions that hinder international cooperation.
The envoy’s remarks come as 191 NPT signatory states prepare for critical negotiations ahead of the 2026 review conference, underscoring Asia’s central role in shaping global security frameworks.
