German Push To Abolish Cluster Bombs

From UPI:

BERLIN (UPI) -- Representatives from more than 80 countries met in Berlin to push for the destruction of cluster bombs, but some of the biggest military powers stayed away.

"Cluster munitions are among the most problematic and vicious types of ammunition used in contemporary warfare. The long-term effects of their use are disastrous," German Deputy Foreign Minister Gernot Erler said at last week's conference.

He added that Germany had become the 11th country to ratify the Convention on Cluster Munitions, which was adopted in December 2008. The German Defense Ministry said it would destroy its remaining bombs by 2015 -- quicker than the treaty demands.

So far, 98 countries have signed the document, but 30 countries need to ratify before it comes into effect.

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My Comment: The major powers stayed away from this conference for a reason. Cluster bombs are effective weapon systems, and no serious power will be wanting to give up this tactical advantage.