KUALA LUMPUR – China has committed to signing the Southeast Asian Nuclear Weapons Free Zone (SEANWFZ) treaty as soon as all necessary documentation is finalized, a significant step that could bolster regional security and non-proliferation efforts. The announcement was made today by Malaysia’s Foreign Minister, Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, during a gathering of Southeast Asian and partner country counterparts.
The SEANWFZ treaty, which has been in effect since 1997, is a cornerstone of ASEAN’s vision for a peaceful and stable region. It explicitly restricts member states from developing, manufacturing, possessing, or controlling nuclear weapons. Furthermore, it limits the use of nuclear power by its signatories exclusively to peaceful purposes, such as electricity generation and medical applications, strictly prohibiting any military applications.
ASEAN’s overarching objective for this treaty is to secure the commitment of the world’s major nuclear powers—specifically China, the United States, Britain, Russia, and France. By signing the SEANWFZ, these nations would formally pledge non-use or non-movement of nuclear weapons within the expansive Southeast Asian region. This includes not only the territorial lands and waters of member states but also their vital exclusive economic zones (EEZs) and continental shelves, areas crucial for economic activity and maritime security.
“China made a commitment to ensure that they will sign the treaty without reservation,” Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan informed reporters on the sidelines of the ongoing meeting of foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and its dialogue partners. This pledge from Beijing represents a key diplomatic victory for ASEAN, as the inclusion of all major nuclear powers is seen as essential for the treaty’s full effectiveness and credibility in maintaining a nuclear-free Southeast Asia.
The move is expected to contribute positively to the broader regional architecture for peace and stability, offering a clear signal of de-escalation in a strategically vital part of the world. Discussions among the foreign ministers continue, with regional security and cooperation high on the agenda.
China Pledges to Sign Southeast Asian Nuclear-Free Zone Treaty