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Landmark disarmament treaty enters into effect. On Sunday, August 1, the Convention on Cluster
Munitions became enacted under international law. Nations that have ratified the treaty
will be officially required to stop producing, storing or transferring landmines, which are
known for their long-term harm to residents. Countries like Laos, cited as being the most
impacted by such munitions in the world, are among the 38 states that have fully ratified
the accord, with another 70 that have signed. The Holy See has also ratified the treaty,
and His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI commended its enactment, saying that it is encouraging
to see nations make progress toward improved human rights. The first meeting of the 106
treaty member states is scheduled for November in the Laotian capital of Vientiane
Our heartfelt thanks all governments, groups and citizens who have worked to achieve this
beneficial ban. Blessed be such efforts in offering increased protection to innocent
humans and animals alike as we look forward to a world where peace is the norm among all
beings on Earth�