Vienna: The European Union has urged all countries, particularly remaining Annex 2 states, to sign and ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) without preconditions during the 65th Session of the CTBTO Preparatory Commission. This call comes amid ongoing global efforts to bolster international peace and security by preventing nuclear test explosions.

According to European Union, the EU has expressed its condolences for the passing of Ambassador Wolfgang Hoffmann, the first Executive Secretary of the CTBTO. The EU commended the current Executive Secretary for comprehensive reports and supported recommendations from Working Groups A and B, as well as the Advisory Group. The EU acknowledged the Provisional Technical Secretariat's (PTS) efforts in preparing for the session.

The EU emphasized the importance of the CTBT's entry into force and urged states to observe a moratorium on nuclear explosions. The EU highlighted concerns regarding the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and urged it to comply with UN Security Council resolutions and sign the CTBT promptly. The EU reiterated its commitment to supporting diplomatic processes for denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula.

The EU also addressed financial aspects, noting the significance of adopting the biennium budget and expressing concerns over a zero nominal growth budget. The EU has contributed over £29.5 million in extra-budgetary funding to support the CTBT's verification regime and capacity-building efforts. The EU commended the PTS for promoting gender equality and representation within its ranks.

The session concluded with the EU's anticipation of new leadership within the Commission, supporting Ambassador Raimonds Oškalns of Latvia as the new Chair for 2026. However, the EU expressed disappointment over the lack of a Vice-Chair nomination from the Middle East and South Asia Regional Group. Additionally, concerns were raised over the re-appointment of Directors related to a state engaged in aggression, reflecting the EU's stance on Russia's actions in Ukraine.

As the CTBT marks its 30th anniversary, the EU called for renewed efforts to advance the Treaty's entry into force, underscoring the collective achievements of its verification regime.