U.S. Official Stresses Joining PSI as Symbol of Commitment to Fight against WMDs

In a bid to strengthen the fight against weapons of mass destruction (WMDs), the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) has gained significance as a symbol of commitment to global security. Speaking at the opening of a political meeting focused on promoting PSI among African countries, Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, Bonnie Jenkins, emphasized the importance of international collaboration in preventing the trafficking of dangerous weapons. Jenkins expressed her satisfaction at the active participation of numerous African nations in the PSI initiative, urging governments yet to join to do so promptly. The PSI, she noted, plays a pivotal role in preserving global peace and security by intercepting transfers to and from both state and non-state proliferators. “Preventing the trafficking of WMDs and their delivery systems is of paramount importance for the preservation of peace and security in the world.” PSI commitments outlined by the American official include the interception of transfers, the development of information exchange systems among member countries, and the enhancement of national authorities’ capacities in partner countries to combat proliferation threats effectively. Highlighting the alignment of PSI principles with United Nations obligations, including Security Council Resolution 1540, Jenkins underscored the need for a coordinated global approach to strengthen non-proliferation measures. The PSI seeks to foster alliances among states, encouraging collaboration to leverage national resources and establish legal, diplomatic, and military instruments to prevent the transport of dangerous cargoes by road, air, and sea. Co-chaired by Jenkins and Redouane Houssaini, the Director of the United Nations and International Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, the meeting aims to encourage African countries to actively support the PSI initiative—a sustainable global effort aimed at putting an end to the proliferation of WMDs. This gathering provides a platform to discuss the evolving nature of the international security environment, shedding light on new challenges and proliferation threats at both the global and regional levels, according to the American official.