Opening Remarks

Edward K. Lenci

Partner, Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP (NYC); Chair-Elect, International Section of the New York State Bar Association

Here in the United States, we’ve been through, and unfortunately remain in, one of the most partisan political periods in the history of our republic. But nuclear weapons are neither a Republican issue nor a Democratic issue, nor even a bi-partisan issue. Nuclear weapons transcend party politics. Given the present-day geo-politics of issues such as climate change and resource inequality, as well as the dangers of terrorists and rogue nations like North Korea, nuclear weapons pose a greater threat to our world now than they did at the peak of the Cold War in the last century.

Today, you’ll hear from the A-list of those involved in the control, reduction and elimination of nuclear weapons. The International Section of the New York State Bar Association is committed to the rule of law, particularly international law, and so it is proud to sponsor this necessary conference.

Thank you for joining us today.