In May 2005, there will be a five year's review conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), the cornerstone of the arms reduction accords agreed 35 years ago. The basic philosophy behind seeking nuclear arms reduction, and ultimate elimination was the premise that these vehicles of mass destruction are a threat for world peace, and this earth would be a better place without them. Under the treaty, only five countries - the United States, Britain, France, China and Russia are permitted to have nuclear arms. The other 182 nations have to renounce nuclear weapons for good. Those allowed to have weapons are also required to take steps for reduction, and ultimately the total elimination of all nuclear weapons. The conference is likely to review the progress made regarding nuclear proliferation and shall also consider steps for enhancement of the same goal. The treaty has many sub- treaties like CTBT (Comprehensive Test Ban treaty) and treaty prohibiting the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons (often called a fissile material cut-off treaty - FMCT) and progress on all these sub-treaties is also likely to be considered.
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