OPCW

DECISION

MEANING OF "PRODUCTION BY SYNTHESIS"

IN PART IX OF THE VERIFICATION ANNEX

The conference

Having considered the issue of whether or not the term "production by synthesis" used in Part IX of the Verification Annex includes biochemical and biologically mediated processes;

Taking note of the work of the Preparatory Commission on this issue, as well as the consultations conducted under the aegis of the Chairman of the Committee of the Whole;

Hereby:

Recommends that the Director-General request the Scientific Advisory Board to address, solely from a scientific and technical aspect, the qualitative and quantitative implications of this issue in relation to their impact on declarations and inspections and, without making any recommendations or in any way prejudging the nature of any future decision on the issue, to report its findings to the Director-General;

Requests the Director-General to convey the findings of the Scientific Advisory Board to all States Parties and to the Executive Council, which is requested to forward any related recommendations to the Conference for its consideration and approval.

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