Pope Francis has supported calls that the United Nations seek the “total elimination” of nuclear weapons. In his message to the UN Conference that started in New York, Francis asked nations to have the courage to overcome the “fear and isolationism” he said was seen in many countries today.
However, many of the world major countries that have nuclear weapons boycotted the conference due to the a resolution that was passed late last year. In December 2016, The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution that countries would look to develop laws that prohibit nuclear weapons. The bill was passed 113 in favour to 35 against, with 13 abstentions.
The United States, Britain, and France are among some 40 countries that have said they will not participate. U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley said it was not realistic to believe that countries such as North Korea would comply with any treaty.
- Internet