UNITED NATIONS – UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has praised the joint statement issued by the five nuclear-weapon states on the prevention of nuclear war and the avoidance of arms races, according to his spokesman.

The leaders of China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States issued a joint statement on Monday in which they stated that "avoiding nuclear war between nuclear-weapon states and reducing strategic risks are our highest responsibility."

We believe that a nuclear war is unwinnable and should never be conducted. Because the use of nuclear weapons would have far-reaching implications, we also believe that nuclear weapons should be used for defensive purposes, to discourage aggression, and to avoid war for as long as they exist.  "We are convinced that the spread of such weapons must be stopped," the statement continued.

Stephane Dujarric, Guterres' spokesman, said of Guterres' response: "The Secretary-General appreciates the nuclear-weapon states' recognition of the importance of adhering to bilateral and multilateral nonproliferation, disarmament, and arms control agreements and commitments, including their legally binding obligations under the Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons related to nuclear disarmament.

"He is heartened by nuclear-weapon states' resolve to take measures to prevent nuclear war, which he has long supported for through communication and collaboration. He is looking forward to learning more about future efforts.

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