Japan and EU agree close cooperation to prevent weapons proliferation

TOKYO (AFP) Jun 22, 2004
Japan and the European Union agreed at a summit here Tuesday to work together to prevent the illegal trafficking of weapons of mass destruction and to promote disarmament, including of nuclear arms.

"The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery poses a serious threat to the peace and stability of the international community," the two sides said in a joint declaration issued after the brief summit.

"In particular, the possibility of the proliferation of WMD ... to terrorists and other non-state actors adds a new dimension to this threat."

The two sides agreed a programme of nine specific areas of cooperation including working to ensure strict compliance of relevant treaties and promoting dialogue with other countries on disarmament and non-proliferation and establishing a list of "best practices."

The statement said among the priorities would be working for the early implementation of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty and co-operating with other partners to strengthen export controls.

Japan and the EU also pledged to continue financial assistance for mine clearance activities including assistance for victims of mines.

Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern, who currently holds the EU's rotating presidency, and European Commission President Romano Prodi took part in the 13th annual summit, the first since the EU admitted 10 new members mainly from central and eastern Europe on May 1.

WAR.WIRE