Statement by the Spokesperson on the ratification of the Arms Trade Treaty by Canada

Canada has become the 104th State Party to the Arms Trade Treaty after depositing its instrument of ratification to the Secretary General of the United Nations on 19 June 2019.

By acceding to the ATT, Canada is contributing to the advancement of the ATT’s objective to prevent and eradicate the illicit trade in conventional arms and ammunition and prevent their diversion.

Universal adherence to the ATT would positively contribute to global peace, security and stability, and create better conditions for sustainable development. All 28 European Union Member States have joined the ATT and are determined in pursuing its objectives and its universal ratification and implementation. The European Union expects all Signatory States to advance their ratification processes and all States, especially the major arms exporters, importers and transit States, to join the ATT without delay.

In this regard, the EU is actively contributing to the preparations of the Fifth Conference of States Parties of the ATT, to be held from 26-30 August 2019 in Geneva, which will provide an opportunity to further promote the universalisation of the ATT. Other States should follow the example of Canada and become a State Party before the Conference of States Parties