Third Preparatory Committee for the 11th Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)
Statement delivered by Mr. Arti Hilpus, Director of Arms Control Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia
New York, 28 April – 9 May 2025
Thank You, Chair,
Estonia aligns itself with the statement made by the European Union, and would like to add the following comments in national capacity.
The development of peaceful uses of nuclear technologies is central to the implementation of the objectives of the NPT, along with nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. All States Parties to the Treaty have the right to benefit from the civil applications of nuclear technologies, provided that they respect their international obligations and pursue nuclear activities exclusively for peaceful purposes. The peaceful use of nuclear energy is also crucial for global development and the clean energy transition. However, access to nuclear technology must be accompanied by the highest standards of safety, non-proliferation commitments, and full compliance with the IAEA Comprehensive Safeguards Agreements and Additional Protocol.
Chair,
Like other European Union member states, Estonia aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. To date, our strategy has primarily focused on harnessing renewable, carbon neutral sources such as wind and solar power, as well as implementing energy efficiency measures. However, to ensure a reliable energy supply regardless of weather or season, it is necessary to weigh all options for carbon-neutral electricity production. In June 2024, based on a report of the Nuclear Energy Working Group, the Estonian Parliament has supported the development of national framework for the deployment of nuclear energy. Estonia is considering the Small Modular Reactor technology, which offers a promising prospect for the future of energy production. While a realistic timeline for the introduction of a nuclear power plant in Estonia is around 2035, we now have a good opportunity to expand our expertise and prepare thoroughly. In this regard, we value the on-going cooperation with IAEA, Finland, USA, France and other partners.
Chair,
Estonia condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the reckless and illegal activities of the Russian Federation that endanger nuclear safety and security, particularly the ongoing attacks near the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, the largest nuclear power station in Europe. Russia’s unlawful occupation of the ZNPP for over three years has rendered it unable to produce electricity and placed it in increasingly perilous nuclear safety and security conditions. By turning a civilian nuclear power plant into a war zone, Russia is gravely undermining and discrediting the goals and purpose of the NPT Third Pillar. These nuclear risks will persist as long as Russia continues its war of aggression against Ukraine. Another dangerous example is the drone attack on February 14th that damaged the outer wall of the dome protecting the remains of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor. Estonia denounces these deliberate assaults, which violate international law and go directly against the principles underpinning decades of concerted efforts toward nuclear safety and security.
Chair,
We commend the International Atomic Energy Agency for their courageous work in ensuring safe and secure operations of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. We call for the immediate and unconditional return of the ZNPP to Ukraine’s control, so that the Ukrainian authorities can resume their sovereign responsibilities without outside pressure and interference. We demand the complete withdrawal of Russian forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. We reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and right to self-defense.
The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons remains the cornerstone of the global regime for nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation and peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Estonia deeply regrets that due to Russia’s opposition, the 10th Review Conference of the NPT could not achieve consensus on an outcome document, and both the First and Second Session of the Preparatory Committee could not adopt a consensual report. We call for a more constructive approach at the Third Preparatory Committee. We must renew our collective commitment to uphold and strengthen this treaty as we approach its 11th Review Conference.
Thank You, Chair.