Representatives from more than twenty-five Asia-Pacific nations gather in Kathmandu for a three-day preparatory meeting to discuss the illicit arms trade.
UN Under-Secretary-General Izumi Nakamitsu and Costa Rica’s Maritza Chan Valverde took charge of the meeting, which focuses on reviewing commitments made under the UN Programme for Action (UN PoA) to Prevent, Combat, and Eradicate Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons.
The meeting emphasizes the need for effective measures, including enhanced national regulations, stockpile management, and international cooperation. The conversations are in line with the Sustainable Development Goals, and the fourth conference, which takes place in New York from June 16–27, 2024, will evaluate the progress.
Along with participating nations and stakeholders, including civil society organizations, the United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament and the Government of Nepal organized the meeting, which aims to identify challenges and discuss priorities.
Thematic presentations will focus on formulating effective national policies, increasing tracing through the International Tracing Instrument, and strategies to control demand.
