According to unconfirmed reports circulating at the Prepcom, it is alleged that some Western States are
working behind the scene to prevent the convening of such a conference, but it is known that some States remain opposed to the proposals advanced by the Arab States.
It is noteworthy that the Chair performed his duties with grace and humour and
maintained the confidence of the Prepcom throughout, though on the last two days his luck ran out when
several States expressed their criticisms of his draft recommendations as discussed in this report.
The proponents of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons(TPNW) that was adopted by 122 States in July 2017 wisely opted not to make this treaty the centrepiece of their statements in the disarmament cluster
thus disappointing the strident opponents who feared that the Prepcom would be“highjacked” by the TPNW.