Germany has been working vigorously towards a global ban on cluster munitions. The Convention banning Cluster Munitions was signed in Oslo in December 2008. So far there are 98 signatory states to the Convention.

Federal Minister Steinmeier has invited all of these states to an expert conference in Berlin to discuss how the provisions on destroying stockpiles of cluster munitions can be quickly implemented.

The conference will take place this Thursday and Friday (25-26 June) in Berlin. Over 270 participants from 75 countries, international and non-governmental organizations are planning to attend. In addition, the participants will have the chance to benefit from the expertise of 12 firms experienced in destroying cluster munitions.

Media representatives are invited to attend the opening of the conference, which will be held from 10.00 to 11.00 am on Thursday in the ballroom of the Hilton Hotel. Minister of State Gernot Erler, State Secretary Espen Barth Eide from the Norwegian Ministry of Defence and Member of the Bundestag Hans Raidel will speak at the opening.