Subject: US Commitments at the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty

During the formal 2000 Review Conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), the United States joined 186 States parties in making thirteen solemn political commitments to bring greater security and stability to our world. Central to those commitments is an "unequivocal undertaking by the nuclear weapons states to accomplish the total elimination of their nuclear arsenals."

This week, during the NPT 2005 Review Conference Preparatory Committee at the United Nations in New York (April 8-19, 2002), the States Parties to the NPT are gathered again as part of a preparatory process leading up to the 2005 Review wherein there will be a thorough evaluation of the progress on implementing the obligations and treaty commitments that have been made.

The enclosed report, "Toward NPT 2005: An Action Plan for the 13 Steps" was prepared by the Middle Powers Initiative in mid 2001 to serve as a guide for diplomats, parliamentarians, and civilian experts in developing strategies to implement the requirements of the NPT.

There is much the US Congress can do now, however, to strengthen the rule of law internationally and fulfill the security enhancing aspects of the NPT. We must lead by example. The United States has the power to lead in the realm of nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament first and foremost by doing everything in our power to keep nuclear weapons materials out of the hands of terrorists who would use them against our cities. You will find this commitment among the 13 Steps.

I trust you will find this report to be of value. On behalf of the House of Representatives Bi-Partisan Task Force on Nuclear Non-Proliferation, I look forward to working with you on these important matters in the near future.

Sincerely,

Congressman Edward Markey

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