The international peace and environment organization Greenpeace now appeals to China to join other world leaders by declining all further tests of nuclear weapons. This will give new hope to the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) negotiations and, ultimately, to a nuclear weapons- free world.
In May 1995, the 5 nuclear weapons states - China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States, pledged to "exercise utmost restraint" in nuclear testing. That commitment was made to 173 other countries at the Nuclear Non-Proliferation (NPT) conference in New York.
Unfortunately, 3 days later, China tested a nuclear weapon underground at Lop Nor, and another in August. In early September, France tested a nuclear weapon in the South Pacific, leading to world protests and a decline in sales of French products abroad. Both countries plan more nuclear tests in 1995.
In the past atmospheric testing released radioactive fall- out contaminating people in many countries. Underground testing can also cause unplanned radioactive releases, even more damaging to the environment.
Considering safety of the people, if China continues nuclear testing, other Asian nations may use this as an excuse to also demand the right to develop their own nuclear weapons.
The Chinese people rightly hope for a world free from the terror of nuclear war. But every nuclear explosion renews the cloud of fear that has plagued two generations around the globe.
Today, the real sign of power is to renounce weapons of mass destruction. The world will admire China if the government announces an immediate end to nuclear testing - as an example and as a gift to world peace.
GREENPEACE is an international environmental organization founded on the principles of non-violence protest, research & education. Greenpeace is independent from governments, political parties and industry. Our offices in 32 countries work for a safe and clean future for generations to come. Your participation is welcome - please post and share this appeal widely.
For further information and reports in English please contact:
1. via computer to the Internet Greenpeace Home Page:
http://www.greenpeace.org
2. Write to:
Greenpeace International
Keizersgracht 176
1016DW Amsterdam
the Netherlands
phone +31(20)523-6222, fax +31(20)523-6200
3. by email: China@green2.greenpeace.org