Kurt M. Campbell Deputy Secretary of State | Official Website
The United States has announced Tonga's endorsement and participation in the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI). This move aligns with efforts to further the counterproliferation objectives outlined in the PSI's Statement of Interdiction Principles. Tonga becomes the 115th nation to endorse the initiative and is one of nine governments to do so this year. The endorsement follows Tonga's involvement in PSI Exercise Pacific Protector, which was held in Sydney, Australia, from September 24-27, 2024.
The PSI, launched in Krakow, Poland, in 2003, marked its 20th anniversary in May 2023. Countries join the initiative by endorsing its Statement of Interdiction Principles. This includes voluntary political commitments aimed at halting shipments of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), delivery systems, and related materials that could flow to or from states and non-state actors deemed proliferation concerns. Participating states also commit to adopting streamlined procedures for rapid information exchange and enhancing relevant national and international laws.
