The European Security Strategy sets out that Europe is facing five key threats: terrorism, proliferation and weapons of mass destruction, regional conflicts, failing States and organised crime.

The proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their launching systems poses a growing threat to international peace and security. Although international treaties and systems for the control of the export of sensitive technologies have managed to stem the spread of WMD and their means of delivery in recent decades, various States have managed to develop these weapons or are endeavouring to do so. The risk of terrorist groups acquiring dual-use technologies or nuclear, radioactive, chemical material or biological agents adds a new dimension to this threat.

As set out in the recent National Security Strategy, similarly to that expressed in the European Security Strategy, Spain cannot ignore these threats. The proliferation of WMD and their launching systems represents a risk to the security of our States, our people and our interests around the world. Facing up to this challenge must be a central thread of Spain’s foreign action, in coordination with its partners and allies.