Nigeria has endorsed the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) following discussions with the United States. The endorsement marks Nigeria as the 116th participant in PSI, which aims to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). The PSI enhances global efforts in counterproliferation and affirms U.S. leadership in enhancing safety and security. Celebrating its 20th Anniversary in May 2023, the PSI fosters cooperation among nations.
The Federal Republic of Nigeria has officially communicated its support for the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) to the United States, following a series of discussions between the two nations. The United States has welcomed Nigeria’s endorsement and is eager to collaborate with the Nigerian Government to promote the counterproliferation objectives outlined in the PSI and its Statement of Interdiction Principles. With this move, Nigeria becomes the 116th country to endorse the PSI.
Countries that support the PSI exhibit a joint commitment to impede the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), along with their delivery systems and associated materials to specific states and non-state actors. Expanding the participation in PSI globally is pivotal for U.S. safety, increasing both individual and cooperative efforts to build capacities necessary for interdicting WMD-related transfers that pose risks to American security. The continual growth of PSI, through persistent and engaged diplomacy, illustrates America’s leadership within the global arena, with the primary aim of preventing the transfer of WMD and thereby minimizing the chances of their use, which is essential for maintaining American prosperity.
Initiated in Krakow, Poland, in 2003, the PSI commemorated its 20th Anniversary in May 2023. Nations join the PSI by publicly endorsing the PSI Statement of Interdiction Principles, committing voluntarily to obstruct and halt illicit shipments of WMD, their delivery systems, and related materials linked to proliferation concerns. Furthermore, PSI-endorsing nations adopt expedited procedures for swift information exchange and reinforce laws and frameworks that are crucial at both national and international levels.
The endorsement of the Proliferation Security Initiative by Nigeria signifies a strengthened commitment to global security against weapons of mass destruction. As the 116th country to join, Nigeria’s participation emphasizes the importance of international collaboration. The PSI continues to play a vital role in enhancing global counterproliferation capabilities and ensuring safety for nations, particularly the United States. Overall, the PSI marks a significant step toward preventing the proliferation and potential use of WMD.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com