Ambassador Murmokaitė stressed that Lithuania firmly believes that transparency in arms trade is indispensable in order to achieve the key purpose of the Armes Trade Treaty – reducing human suffering. “Transparency in arms trade is our priority and we will continue to strongly advocate for shinning more light on arms trade, in particular, through public reporting and supporting civilian society led monitoring”, said the Ambassador.

Once the Treaty enters into force, the exports will be banned if arms could be used to commit genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. When authorizing exports, the States Parties will also have to consider whether the export could undermine international peace and security, be used to commit or facilitate a serious violation of international humanitarian law or human rights, or acts relating to terrorism and transnational organised crime. The treaty will into force on 24 December. Lithuania was the 59th country to ratify this treaty.