Geneva - On August 16, Cuba called for a nuclear-weapons-freeworld at the UN headquarters in this city, highlighting the need for multilateral negotiations regarding the prohibition and total elimination of such arms.

Rodolfo Benítez, head of Political Affairs at the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Multilateral Affairs department, stated the island’s position during a session of the UN Open-ended Working Group on nuclear disarmament.

During the meeting, the Cuban diplomat stressed the island’s firm commitment to nuclear disarmament as a top priority, reported Prensa Latina.

Benítez denounced the existence of nuclear weapons and the danger they pose to the world, noting that the issue represents one of the major challenges to humanity’s survival.

In this regard, he stated that the use of nuclear arms can not be justified under any security model or doctrine.

Thus, Benítez proposed the adoption of a mechanism aimed at prohibiting nuclear weapons as a first step toward their complete elimination over time and under strict supervision.

The Working Group sessions will conclude on Friday, August 19, on which date participants should approve a report scheduled to be reviewed during the upcoming 71st Regular Session of the UN General Assembly.