The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) is an international agreement aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Established in 1968, the treaty has three main pillars: non-proliferation, disarmament, and the right to peacefully use nuclear technology. Countries that join the NPT commit to not developing nuclear weapons and to work towards disarmament. As of now, the NPT has been signed by 191 countries, making it one of the most widely adhered-to arms control agreements. The treaty recognizes five nuclear-armed states: the United States, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom, while encouraging other nations to pursue peaceful nuclear energy.