Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons

The Treaty, adopted in 2017, will enter into force 90 days after it has been ratified by at least 50 countries and regions.

Kyodo News report so far 49 countries have ratified the pact and one more country is needed.

Although the pact will not be able to legally require nuclear power states to get rid of their arsenals, the launch of the world's first treaty banning nuclear weapons is likely to gain global momentum toward reducing stockpiles.

New Zealand will sign the Treaty on the first day it is open for signature, September 20.

“Our signing at this first opportunity is consistent with New Zealand’s long-standing commitment to international nuclear disarmament efforts”, Brownlee said.

“While no state currently in possession of nuclear weapons will be signing along with us, this Treaty nevertheless represents an important step towards a nuclear-free world.