A Study On The Non-Nuclear Zone In Central Asia

After more than a decade hard negotiations between five Central Asian countries, the first Nuclear-Weapon-Free-Zone (NWFZ) Treaty in a populated region on northern hemisphere became formally effective on the 21st of March,2009. This is the world's fifth regional NWFZ and a milestone in the history of non-nuclear zones in relation to the current severe situation of the nuclear proliferation.Different from other regions, Central Asia once had nuclear weapons, which make the creation of the NWFZ of Central Asia even more extraordinary. Through various means, this study will investigate the different nuclear positions of the five Central Asian states during the time of Soviet Union, their motivations to strive for the non-nuclear zone, the twists and difficulties in the course of constructing the NWFZ, the calculations and support of the international community in this regard, by which reveal the specific position of the five Central Asian states on nuclear non-proliferation, and their belief that NWFZ is the best way to ensure the safety of Central Asia itself and the world as a whole.The non-nuclear zone of Central Asia has an important significance for both the Central Asia region and the world. It assures that the Central Asian states avoid being confronted with the threats of nuclear weapons. It created beneficial atmosphere to strengthen the regional safety and cooperation between member states. It will elevate the international reputation of Central Asian, thereby enhanced their influence in the world. The founding of the NWFZ of Central Asia will certainly enhance the international security and stability, and the entire world will learn valuable lesson from the experience of the Central Asia concerning the construction of a non-nuclear world.