India has reiterated its commitment to building a world free of nuclear weapons and achieving their complete elimination through universal, nondiscriminatory and verifiable disarmament. India’s statement was delivered at a high level United Nations meeting in New York to mark the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.

At another United Nations meeting marking the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, India also reaffirmed its commitment to addressing racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. The statement called for practical efforts led at the national level and supported through international cooperation to implement the declaration.

India also highlighted the importance of stronger international cooperation to support the return of cultural properties and heritage items to their countries of origin.