QUESTION PERIOD — Global Affairs
United Nations Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons
October 1, 2026
Senator Moreau, I had the pleasure of meeting with representatives of the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War this morning. This is an organization that won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1985.
They asked me about Canada’s position on the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, or TPNW. This was adopted by the United Nations in 2021 and is supported by over 100 countries — but not Canada.
Can you find out if the government intends to send an observer to the first Review Conference of the TPNW state parties at the United Nations headquarters in December of this year?
You probably understand that I don’t know the answer to this question, but I will certainly ask this question to the minister. I will get back to you with an answer on this.
I think you know, senator, that it’s not tantamount to joining the treaty, but it at least shows an interest in discussing issues on the prohibition of nuclear weapons.
Still on the existential threat of nuclear weapons, I want to ask you about a resolution that was introduced by Mexico to the United Nations: Resolution 80/23 calls for human control and oversight over the use of artificial intelligence in nuclear command and control systems. There are 118 countries that supported this resolution — but not Canada.
Can you find out why Canada —
Thank you, Senator Woo.
Thank you for the question. I know where you’re going. I will certainly ask why Canada did not support the resolution. I will bring you the answer.
