Liberia Reaffirms Commitment to Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty

By Kruah Thompson

MONROVIA, Liberia, October 2, 2026 — Liberia has reaffirmed its commitment to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, citing the need to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons, support peaceful uses of nuclear energy and advance global disarmament.

Deputy Information Minister Daniel Sanoe announced the renewed commitment Thursday, saying international cooperation on non-proliferation remains essential to global peace.

United Nations Treaty Series records show that the treaty opened for signature in 1968 and that Liberia signed it on June 18 of that year. Under the agreement, Liberia committed not to develop or acquire nuclear weapons while retaining the right to pursue peaceful nuclear technology under international safeguards.

The International Atomic Energy Agency plays a central role in verifying that civilian nuclear programs are not diverted to weapons development.

Sanoe said Liberia’s recommitment reflects its support for diplomacy and mutual obligations intended to reduce the risk of nuclear conflict.

He warned that a single nuclear explosion could cause widespread humanitarian damage.

Sanoe said about 12,100 nuclear warheads remain in global stockpiles and reiterated Liberia’s preference for diplomacy.

He said Liberia would continue to promote peaceful uses of nuclear energy and support nuclear disarmament.

The NPT is built on three pillars: non-proliferation, peaceful use of nuclear energy and disarmament. States that did not possess nuclear weapons when the treaty was established agreed not to acquire or manufacture them.

The five nuclear-weapon states recognized by the treaty, the United States, Russia, China, France and the United Kingdom, committed to pursue disarmament. The treaty also permits nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, including electricity generation, medicine and scientific research, subject to international safeguards.