Preparatory Commission for the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons

Document number: PC-XIII/18
Document date: 22 March 1996
Original: ENGLISH
Corrigenda () have been inserted at the relevant places!

Thirteenth Session (18 - 22 March 1996)

REPORT OF THE COMMISSION

1. Introduction

1.1 In accordance with its decision recorded in the Report of the Twelfth Session of the Preparatory Commission (PC-XII/17), the Commission convened its Thirteenth Session in The Hague, Kingdom of the Netherlands, from 18 - 22 March 1996.

1.2 The number of signatory States remained unchanged at 160.

1.3 Four new instruments of ratification were deposited during the current intersessional period, by Côte d'Ivoire (18 December 1995), Morocco (28 December 1995), Czech Republic (6 March 1996), and Brazil (13 March 1996). This brought the number of ratifications to 49.

1.4 The following 87 Member States participated in the Thirteenth Session of the Commission: Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chile, China, Colombia, Congo, Costa Rica, Côte d'Ivoire, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Gabon, Germany, Greece, Haiti, Holy See, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lesotho, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mali, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Niger, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Romania, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United States of America, Uruguay, Venezuela, and Zambia.

2. AGENDA ITEM ONE - Opening of the Session

The Session was opened by the Chairman of the Commission, Ambassador Sallehuddin Abdullah of Malaysia, at 11:00 on 18 March 1996.

3. AGENDA ITEM TWO - Adoption of the Agenda

On 18 March 1996 the Commission adopted the following agenda for its Thirteenth Session:

1. Opening of the Session
2. Adoption of the Agenda
3. Report of the Executive Secretary
4. General discussion on major outstanding issues
5. Consideration of the Report of Working Group A and appropriate action
6. Consideration of the Report of Working Group B and appropriate action
7. Report of the Credentials Committee
8. Report of the Committee on Relations with the Host Country
9. Preparations for the First Session of the Conference of the States Parties
10. Any other business
11. Date and Agenda of the Fourteenth Session
12. Adoption of the Report and closure of the Session

4. AGENDA ITEM THREE - Report of the Executive Secretary

The Commission received the Report of the Executive Secretary, Mr. Ian R. Kenyon (PC-XIII/7 and Corr.1/Corr.2/Add.1). The Report covered the intersessional period from 8 December 1995 to 14 March 1996.

5. AGENDA ITEM FOUR - General discussion on major outstanding issues

Statements were made by the delegations of Brazil, Sweden, Argentina on behalf of the Latin American and Caribbean Group, Finland, Czech Republic, United States of America, Japan, Cuba, South Africa, Malaysia, Republic of Korea, Mali, Hungary, Austria, China, Côte d'Ivoire, Cameroon, Argentina, Israel, Romania, France on behalf of the Western European and Other States Group, Poland, Ukraine, Pakistan, Tunisia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Croatia, India, Morocco, Australia, and Russian Federation.

6. AGENDA ITEM FIVE - Report of Working Group A

6.1 On 21 March 1996 the Chairman of Working Group A, Ambassador Carlos Enrique Nones of Venezuela, introduced the Report of Working Group A (PC-XIII/A/5). The Commission noted the Report and took the following action in relation to matters arising out of the Report of Working Group A:

Administrative, Financial and Personnel Matters

6.2 The Commission considered and adopted the Draft OPCW Financial Regulations, as contained in PC-XIII/A/2 and Corr.1, and decided to submit them to the Conference of the States Parties of the OPCW at its First Session.

6.3 The Commission concurred that the proposed amendments to Staff Rule 3.4.02(a) of the Commission, as contained in PC-XIII/A/1, are consistent with the relevant Staff Regulations of the Commission.

6.4 The Commission authorised the Executive Secretary to conclude on behalf of the Commission, on a bilateral basis, an arrangement with each Member State that makes facilities available for inspector training.

7. AGENDA ITEM SIX - Report of Working Group B

7.1 On 22 March 1996 the Chairman of Working Group B, Dr. Radoslav Deyanov of Bulgaria, introduced the Report of Working Group B (PC-XIII/B/6). The Commission noted the Report and took the following action in relation to matters arising out of the Report of Working Group B:

Safety Procedures

7.2 The Commission considered and adopted the Draft OPCW Health and Safety Regulations annexed to PC-XIII/B/WP.2 and decided to adopt and apply them, mutatis mutandis, as the Health and Safety Regulations of the Preparatory Commission.

Technical Cooperation and Assistance

7.3 The Commission:

(a) approved the "Guidelines for the Secretariat's Internet Website" as contained in the Annex to PC-XIII/B/WP.3;

(b) authorised the Secretariat to make the Website permanent; and

(c) requested the Secretariat to establish an experimental information service for the duration of 1996 to facilitate information exchange in relation to Article XI as outlined in subparagraphs 3.2 - 3.4 of PC-XIII/B/WP.3.

Challenge Inspection

7.4 The Commission considered and adopted the Annex to PC-XIII/B/WP.4 entitled "Illustrative List of Objective Indicators to Facilitate the Executive Council in Addressing Any Concern, in Accordance with Paragraph 22 of Article IX, Whether the Right to Request a Challenge Inspection has been Abused".

Inspection Procedures

7.5 The Commission adopted the "Criteria for the Conduct of OPCW/PTS Proficiency Testing" (Annex 2 to PC-XIII/B/WP.5).

8. AGENDA ITEM SEVEN - Report of the Credentials Committee

8.1 The Commission noted the Report of the Credentials Committee (PC-XIII/9), which was presented on 21 March 1996 by Mr. Gerardo Girardo Crocini of Italy, the Chairman of the Committee.

8.2 The Chairman also reported that, subsequent to the adjournment of the meeting, the formal credentials for the Representative of Thailand were received. Receipt of these credentials will be noted in the next Report of the Credentials Committee at the Fourteenth Session of the Commission.

8.3 At the time of the Thirteenth Session the following 107 Member States had Representatives to the Commission, accredited or provisionally participating in accordance with Rules 2, 3, and 5 of the Rules of Procedure of the Commission:

Algeria, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chile, China, Colombia, Congo, Costa Rica, Côte d'Ivoire, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Estonia, Ethiopia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gabon, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Haiti, Holy See, Honduras, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lesotho, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malawi, Malaysia, Mali, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Niger, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Romania, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United States of America, Uruguay, Venezuela, Yemen, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

9. AGENDA ITEM EIGHT - Report of the Committee on Relations with the Host Country

9.1 The Commission noted the Report of the Committee on Relations with the Host Country (PC-XIII/HC/8 and Corr.1), which was presented on 21 March 1996 by Ambassador Sallehuddin Abdullah, the Chairman of the Committee.

(Preliminary) Tenancy Agreement and Development and Realisation Agreement

9.2 The Commission noted that the Committee on Relations with the Host Country, having considered the Draft (Preliminary) Tenancy Agreement (PC-XIII/HC/6) and having reviewed the Development and Realisation Agreement and Associated Draft Exchange of Letters (PC-XIII/HC/5), had decided:

(a) to approve the Draft (Preliminary) Tenancy Agreement; and

(b) to authorise the Executive Secretary to sign the said agreement on behalf of the Commission at the same time that the Development and Realisation Agreement between the Host Country and the developer was signed and the associated side-letters were exchanged.

9.3 The Commission decided to forward the (Preliminary) Tenancy Agreement to the Conference of the States Parties for confirmation at its First Session.

9.4 The Commission noted that the Committee on Relations with the Host Country had discharged its existing mandate regarding the long-term accommodation of the OPCW.

9.5 The Commission mandated the Committee on Relations with the Host Country to monitor progress of the realisation of the (Preliminary) Tenancy Agreement and the Development and Realisation Agreement.

Interim accommodation

9.6 In order to ensure the timely provision of interim accommodation for the OPCW upon entry into force of the Convention, taking account of the uncertainty of the date when the 65th ratification might be expected and recognising the potential urgent need for such accommodation pending the availability of the OPCW building (Catsheuvel), the Commission decided to delegate to the Committee on Relations with the Host Country its authority to expend funds (Dfl. 1,975,000) during Phase II from Part II of the Budget of the Commission for the rental and maintenance of premises (see section 8, subparagraph 8.9(c) of the Annex to PC-VIII/A/WP.7 and subparagraph 6.15 of PC-VIII/18). These funds had been carried forward for 1996 with allowance for inflation as Dfl. 2,024,400 (see table 8.4 of the Annex to PC-XI/A/WP.5 and subparagraph 6.2(e) of PC-XI/17).

10. AGENDA ITEM NINE - Preparations for the First Session of the Conference of the States Parties The Commission held preliminary discussion on issues related to preparations for the First Session of the Conference of the States Parties. The discussion was facilitated by the two Notes by the Executive Secretary entitled "Administrative, Legal and Other Substantive Tasks Related to the First Session of the Conference of the States Parties" and "Status of Work of the Commission" (PC-XIII/5 and Corr.1 and PC-XIII/6 respectively). The Commission welcomed the intention of the Chairman of the Commission to conduct further consultations on this agenda item and decided to re-include it in the provisional agenda of the Fourteenth Session of the Commission.

11. AGENDA ITEM TEN - Any other business

Plan of Activities and Schedule of Meetings for the Period March - July 1996

11.1 The Commission approved the amended "Plan of Activities of the Expert Groups and Task Forces under Working Groups A and B and of the Committee on Relations with the Host Country, as well as the Schedule of Meetings for the Period March - July 1996" as contained in the Annex to this Report. Transfers of funds

11.2 The Commission noted the intra-programme transfers recorded in subparagraph 7.2(h) of PC-XIII/A/WP.2 and Corr.1 and paragraph 1 of the Note by the Executive Secretary on the same subject (PC-XIII/2), and approved the inter-programme transfers reported in subparagraph 7.2(i) of PC-XIII/A/WP.2 and paragraph 2 of the same Note by the Executive Secretary.

12. AGENDA ITEM ELEVEN - Date and Agenda of Fourteenth Session

The Commission decided to hold its Fourteenth Session from 22 - 26 July 1996 in The Hague, Kingdom of the Netherlands, and also decided to consider the following provisional agenda for adoption at the opening of its Fourteenth Session:

1. Opening of the Session
2. Adoption of the Agenda
3. Report of the Executive Secretary
4. Reports of the External Auditor
5. General discussion on major outstanding issues
6. Preparations for the First Session of the Conference of the States Parties
7. Consideration of the Report of Working Group A and appropriate action
8. Consideration of the Report of Working Group B and appropriate action
9. Report of the Credentials Committee
10. Report of the Committee on Relations with the Host Country
11. Election of the Chairman and other Officers of the Commission
12. Any other business
13. Date and Agenda of the Fifteenth Session
14. Adoption of the Report and closure of the Session

13. AGENDA ITEM TWELVE - Adoption of the Report and Closure of the Thirteenth Session

The Commission adopted its Report, and the Chairman closed the Thirteenth Session at 11:30 on 22 March 1996.

PLAN OF ACTIVITIES
OF THE EXPERT GROUPS AND TASK FORCES
UNDER WORKING GROUPS A AND B
AND OF THE COMMITTEE ON RELATIONS WITH THE HOST COUNTRY
FOR THE PERIOD MARCH - JULY 1996

The Chairman of the Commission conducted consultations on planning for the next intersessional period on 7 March 1996. The following principles in preparing the Commission's work schedule for the next intersessional period appear to be the outcome of these consultations:

- the schedule should follow the rule of free Wednesdays and Fridays to make room for informal consultations on the outstanding issues on the Commission's agenda and for any other pressing business of delegations; and

- approximately two weeks' time, closer to the end of the intersessional period, should be reserved in the schedule for any additional meetings or consultations that may be required. The format for these consultations would have to be agreed among delegations at a later date.

PART I

A. TASKS, OBJECTIVES, PRIORITY OF ISSUES AND DOCUMENTS
OF EXPERT GROUPS

WORKING GROUP A

A. Finance Group (Chairman: Mr. K. Lal - India)

Tasks:

1. Review the draft OPCW Financial Rules on:
   • procurement
   • reimbursable expenses.

2. Review funding aspects of the "minimum" IMS available at entry into force, taking into account relevant Reports of the Expert Group on Data Systems and analyses provided by the Executive Secretary.

3. Evaluate the basic parameters of the 1997 Draft Budget of the Commission.

4. Review the preliminary 1997 Draft Budget of the Commission.

5. Review budgetary and financial issues related to the transition from the Preparatory Commission to the OPCW.

6. Review the 1995 audited financial statements of the Commission and the External Auditor’s report and opinion thereon.

7. Review the 1995 audited financial statements of the Provident Fund and the External Auditor’s report and opinion thereon.

8. Evaluation of any materials provided by the Executive Secretary on budgetary issues.

Documents:

1. Secretariat's plan for establishing a "minimum" IMS by the end of 1996

2. A single compilation document containing all elements of the approved 1996 Part II budget now found in several documents

3. A preliminary draft, including the basic parameters, of the 1997 Budget of the Commission

4. Secretariat paper providing a detailed list of the budgetary and financial problems, question and issues, including accrued benefits, related to the transition from the Preparatory Commission to the OPCW, together with proposals on how to address them

5. Draft OPCW Financial Rules on Reimbursable Expenses and a revised draft of the OPCW Financial Rules on Procurement

6. The 1995 audited financial statements of the Commission and the Provident Fund and the External Auditor's report and opinion thereon

B. Expert Group on
Programme of Work and Budget
(Chairman: Mr. A. Hernandez -Basave - Mexico)

Tasks:

1. Review the Report of the Finance Group.

2. Review funding aspects of the "minimum" IMS available at entry into force, taking into account relevant Reports of the Expert Group on Data Systems and analyses provided by the Executive Secretary.

3. Evaluate the basic parameters of the 1997 Draft Budget of the Commission.

4. Review the preliminary 1997 Draft Budget of the Commission.

5. Review issues regarding the First OPCW Budget.

6. Review budgetary issues related to the transition from the Preparatory Commission to the OPCW.

7. Evaluation of any materials provided by the Executive Secretary on budgetary issues.

Documents:

1. Finance Group Report

2. Secretariat's plan for establishing a "minimum" IMS by the end of 1996

3. A single compilation document containing all elements of the approved 1996 Part II budget now found in several documents

4. A preliminary draft, including the basic parameters, of the 1997 Budget of the Commission

5. Secretariat paper providing a detailed list of the budgetary and financial problems, question and issues, including accrued benefits, related to the transition from the Preparatory Commission to the OPCW, together with proposals on how to address them

6. Report of the Executive Secretary in accordance with subparagraph 5.4 of PC-XII/A/WP.4

1. Formulate recommendations with respect to the transition from the Secretariat to the OPCW.

2. Consider options and continue discussions on the OPCW top structure.

3. Consider draft OPCW Financial Rules.

4. Finalise draft OPCW Staff Regulations.

5. Evaluate the legal implications of the termination of employment for medical reasons.

6. Continue consideration of privileges and immunities of "experts" in the context of investigations of alleged use.

Documents:

1. OPCW top structure options

2. Draft OPCW Financial Regulations (PC-XIII/A/2 and Corr.1)

3. Draft OPCW Financial Rules

4. Finance Group Report of Ninth Meeting (PC-XIII/A/WP.2 and Corr.1)

III. Expert Group on
Data Systems
(Chairman: Mr. András Nagy - Hungary)

Task:

1. Consider the plan for establishing a "minimum" IMS by the end of 1996, as developed and presented by the Secretariat.

Document:

1. Secretariat's plan for establishing a "minimum" IMS by the end of 1996.

IV. Expert Group on
OPCW Headquarters Agreement
(Chairman: Prof. N. Ronzitti - Italy)

Task:

1. Consider report on the consultations between the Host Country and the Secretariat regarding the draft OPCW Headquarters Agreement.

Document:

1. Draft OPCW Headquarters Agreement

V. Visa Matters
(Chairman: Mr. J. Zaadhof - Netherlands)

Tasks:

1. Finalise consultations on visa requirements and travel documents for OPCW inspectors and inspection assistants.

2. Consider any issue raised by the Executive Secretary on matters regarding visa requirements for inspector trainees.

Documents:

1. PC-IX/A/1

2. Chairman's discussion paper regarding consultations on visa matters

WORKING GROUP B

I. Expert Group on
Technical Cooperation and Assistance
(Chairman: Mr. S. Chakravarti - India)

(a) Tasks identified in the Paris Resolution:

1. Develop lists of items to be stockpiled by States Parties for emergency and humanitarian assistance in accordance with Article VIII, subparagraph 39 (b) (subparagraph 12(b) of the Paris Resolution).

2. Develop procedures for the provision of information by States Parties on their programmes related to protective purposes, in accordance with Article X, paragraph 4 (paragraph 12 (d) of the Paris Resolution).

(b) Other priority task:

1. Resolve other outstanding questions under Article XI.

Document:

1. Chairman's paper on outstanding Article X and XI issues

II. Expert Group on Challenge Inspection
(Chairman: Mr. A. Perugini - Italy)

Tasks:

1. Finalise recommendation in regard to further operational requirements for inspection equipment for challenge inspection, bearing in mind their technical, legal, budgetary and confidentiality aspects.

2. Address, as necessary, cost aspects in case of abuse of the right to request a challenge inspection.

3. Resolve the issues of the timing of the notification of challenge inspections.

4. Finalise consideration of the illustrative lists of activities in challenge inspection and illustrative elements of the document on the preliminary factual findings, as well as of the preliminary, draft and final inspection reports.

III. Expert Group on Chemical Industry Issues
(Chairman: dr. W. Beuth - Germany)

(a) Tasks identified in the Paris Resolution:

1. Develop guidelines on detailed procedures for verification and for the conduct of inspections, in accordance with, inter alia, Part II, paragraph 42, of the Verification Annex (for Schedule 1 facilities) (subparagraph 12(a) of the Paris Resolution).

2. Develop and finalise models for facility agreements in accordance with Part III, paragraph 8, of the Verification Annex (for Schedule 1 facilities) (subparagraph 12(i) of the Paris Resolution).

3. Finalise guidelines to assess the risk to the object and purpose of the Convention posed by the quantities of chemicals produced, the characteristics of the facility and the nature of the activities carried out there, in accordance with Part VI, paragraph 30, of the Verification Annex (for "other" Schedule 1 facilities) (subparagraph 12(s) of the Paris Resolution).

4. Finalise guidelines for provisions regarding scheduled chemicals in low concentrations, including in mixtures, in accordance with Part VII, paragraph 5, and Part VIII, paragraph 5, of the Verification Annex (subparagraph 12(t) of the Paris Resolution).

5. Develop and finalise models for facility agreements covering detailed inspection procedures, in accordance with Part VI, paragraph 27 of the Verification Annex (in regard to SSSFs) (subparagraph 12(r) of the Paris Resolution).

1. Finalise the model facility agreement for Schedule 2 plant sites covered under Article VI of the Convention.

2. Resolve the issue of whether or not the term "production by synthesis" used in Part IX includes biochemical and biologically mediated processes.

3. Agree on the method of reporting aggregate national data for Schedule 2 and 3 chemicals.

4. Complete discussions on: the tentative understandings in regard to discrete organic chemicals including PSF chemicals; "production" as defined in subparagraph 12(a) of Article II; and biochemical and biologically mediated processes in relation to scheduled chemicals.

(c) Other tasks:

1. Develop solutions for the issue of castor bean processing plants.

2. Consider the declaration forms and the Declaration Handbook drafted by the Secretariat.

3. Complete consideration of the issue of past production of Schedule 1 chemicals at facilities having a capacity above 1 tonne, for purposes not prohibited under the Convention on the basis of the understanding as reflected in subparagraphs 2.4 and 4.5 of PC-VIII/B/WP.10.

4. Resolve the issue of the meaning of the term "a State Party" in subparagraph 8(a)(i)(2) of Article II (see subparagraphs 5.4 - 5.6 of PC-VIII/B/WP.10).

5. Develop the model facility agreement for Schedule 3 facilities covered under Article VI of the Convention.

Documents:

1. Draft Model for Schedule 1 Facility Agreements (to be prepared by the Secretariat)

2. Revised Draft Model Agreement for Schedule 2 Plant Sites, prepared by the Chairman of the Expert Group

3. Revised Chairman's proposal on the Issue of "low concentrations"

4. Draft Sections A, B and C of the Declaration Handbook

IV. Expert Group on Old and Abandoned
Chemical Weapons
(Chairman: Mr. P. Krejsa - Austria)

(a) Task identified in the Paris Resolution:

1. Develop guidelines to determine the "usability" of chemical weapons produced between 1925 and 1946, in accordance with Part IV(b), paragraph 5, of the Verification Annex (subparagraph 12(n) of the Paris Resolution).

(b) Other priority tasks:

1. Resolve the issue of verification and destruction requirements for old chemical weapons produced between 1925 and 1946.

2. Develop destruction and verification requirements for abandoned chemical weapons, including a possible challenge inspection.

3. Finalise the declaration requirements for old chemical weapons produced between 1925 and 1946.

(c) Other tasks:

1. Resolve the issue of the cost of the verification of old chemical weapons and their destruction as referred to in paragraph 8 of the Annex to the Second Report of the Expert Group (PC-VI/B/WP.5).

2. Finalise the Draft of Section E-1 of the Declaration Handbook entitled Old Chemical Weapons Produced Before 1925, reflecting the different views expressed by delegations.

Documents:

1. Draft of Section E-1 of the Declaration Handbook entitled Old Chemical Weapons Produced Before 1925

2. Materials on declaration requirements for old chemical weapons produced between 1925 and 1946 (to be prepared by the Secretariat)

3. Draft of the section of the Declaration Handbook entitled Abandoned Chemical Weapons

V. Expert Group on Chemical Weapons Issues
(Chairman: Mr.________ - ________)

(a) Tasks identified in the Paris Resolution:

1. Finalise guidelines on detailed procedures for verification and for the conduct of inspections, in accordance with, inter alia, Part II, paragraph 42 of the Verification Annex (for CWPFs and CWDFs) (subparagraph 12(a) of the Paris Resolution).

2. Develop models for facility agreements in accordance with Part III, paragraph 8 of the Verification Annex (in regard to CWSFs, CWDFs and CWPFs) (subparagraph 12(i) of the Paris Resolution).

3. Develop appropriate detailed procedures to implement Part III, paragraphs 11 and 12 of the Verification Annex, in accordance with paragraph 13 of that Part (installation of continuous monitoring instruments and systems and seals) (subparagraph 12(j) of the Paris Resolution).

4. Finalise recommendations for guidelines for transitional verification arrangements, in accordance with Part IV(A), paragraph 51 of the Verification Annex (subparagraph 12(m) of the Paris Resolution).

5. Develop guidelines for determining the frequency of systematic on-site inspections of chemical weapons production facilities, in accordance with Part V, paragraph 54 of the Verification Annex (subparagraph 12(o) of the Paris Resolution).

6. Develop criteria for toxicity, corrosiveness and, if applicable, other technical factors, in accordance with Part V, subparagraph 71(b) of the Verification Annex (subparagraph 12(p) of the Paris Resolution).

7. Develop guidelines to assess the risk to the object and purpose of the Convention posed by the relevant chemicals, the characteristics of the facility and the nature of the activities carried out there, in accordance with Part VI, paragraph 23 of the Verification Annex (subparagraph 12(q) of the Paris Resolution).

(b) Other priority tasks:

1. Address the issue of the costs of verification in relation to paragraph 16 of Article IV, paragraph 19 of Article V and paragraph 26 of Part II of the Verification Annex of the Convention with a view to its resolution.

2. Consider the implementation of the provisions of the Convention dealing with the conversion of CWPFs.

3. Review the draft model facility agreement for CWDFs prepared by the Secretariat, to include transitional arrangements.

4. Finalise the elaboration of a clear understanding of what is considered a chemical weapon in particular in relation to Article II, subparagraphs 1(b) and 1(c) (on the basis of the comments provided in relation to Section D of the draft Declaration Handbook).

5. Address all aspects of the issue of chemical weapons buried by a State Party on its territory after 1976 or dumped at sea after 1984, including a possible challenge inspection, and its implications for the Technical Secretariat's responsibilities and other Expert Groups' tasks in this regard.

6. Finalise the declaration requirements for chemical weapons.

(c) Other tasks:

A. Chemical weapons production facilities

1. Finalise inspection activities at CWPFs.

2. Resolve the issue of production capacity.

3. Resolve the issue of levelling out.

4. Discuss declaration requirements.

5. Review the draft model facility agreement prepared by the Secretariat.

B. Chemical weapons storage facilities

1. Review inspection report formats developed by the Secretariat.

2. Determine how States Parties report chemical weapons on their own territory that are owned by another State.

3. Finalise the draft model facility agreement for a CWSF.

C. Chemical weapons destruction facilities

1. Discuss destruction requirements.

2. Resolve the issue of a numerical value for the quantitative assessment of the completeness of destruction.

3. Develop methods to verify the quantity of agent being destroyed and complete the list of activities for verifying the completeness of destruction and for quantifying destroyed chemical weapons.

4. Develop guidance on the issue of the destruction of chemical weapons resulting in the formation of Schedule 2 chemicals.

5. Review formats for declarations and for initial, routine and final inspection reports, prepared by the Secretariat.

6. Develop procedures to cover the installation, use, inspection and maintenance of equipment installed by the inspected State Party and/or the inspection team.

7. Discuss the need to develop inspection procedures for facilities at which chemical weapons destruction operations are not continuous, including procedures for a pilot plant to test chemical weapons destruction technologies.

8. Develop provisions regarding "simulation equipment".

D. Chemical weapons development facilities

1. Elaborate a clear understanding of how the term "primarily for development of chemical weapons" should be understood in preparing declarations under subparagraph 1(d) of Article III (to be undertaken when a proposal has been provided by any Member State).

Documents:

1. Background paper on the issue of chemical weapons which were buried after 1 January 1977 and dumped at sea after 1 January 1985 with a view to identifying a mechanism for related declarations (to be prepared by the Secretariat)

2. Materials on declaration requirements for chemical weapons (to be prepared by the Secretariat)
3. Draft Model Agreement for Chemical Weapons Destruction Facilities

VI. Expert Group on Inspection Procedures
(Chairman: Mr. S. Kisselev - Russian Federation)

(a) Tasks identified in the Paris Resolution:

1. Develop a list of approved equipment in accordance with Part II, paragraph 27, of the Verification Annex (subparagraph 12(e) of the Paris Resolution).

2. Develop procedures for inclusion in the inspection manual for ensuring the protection of the confidentiality of samples transferred for analysis off-site, in accordance with Part II, paragraph 56, of the Verification Annex (subparagraph 12(h) of the Paris Resolution).

(b) Other priority tasks:

1. Consider the reports of the Specialist Task Force on Inspection Equipment Issues, the Specialist Task Force on Analytical Issues and the Specialist Task Force on the OPCW Analytical Database.

2. Develop provisions for indicating the specific types of equipment for the specific types of inspection.

3. Develop a common understanding of the term "particular type of inspection" and the possible equipment-related consequences of the application of this term.

(c) Other tasks:

1. Finalise its recommendation on the adoption of a single standard reference system for geographical co-ordinates to be used by the OPCW.

2. Elaborate administrative procedures for the conduct of inspections, including the issues of non-scheduled aircraft and communications procedures.

3. Review the Secretariat's discussion paper outlining its views on the scope of activities of designated laboratories, and the role and status of "other laboratories", as reflected in the Annex to PC-VI/B/WP.4.

Documents:

1. Reports of the Specialist Task Force on Inspection Equipment Issues, the Specialist Task Force on Analytical Issues and the Specialist Task Force on the OPCW Analytical Database

2. Discussion paper outlining the Secretariat's views on the scope of activities of designated laboratories, and the role and status of "other laboratories", as reflected in the Annex to PC-VI/B/WP.4 (to be prepared by the Secretariat)

3. Draft recommendation on the adoption of a single standard reference system for geographical co-ordinates to be used by the OPCW (to be prepared by the Secretariat)

4. Draft recommendation on administrative procedures for the conduct of inspections, including the issues of non-scheduled aircraft and communications procedures (to be prepared by the Secretariat)

5. Compilation of suggestions provided by Member States on procedures for inclusion in the inspection manual for ensuring the protection of the confidentiality of samples transferred for analysis off-site, in accordance with Part II, paragraph 56, of the Verification Annex (to be compiled by the Secretariat)

B. TASKS, OBJECTIVES, PRIORITY OF ISSUES AND DOCUMENTS OF
TASK FORCES

WORKING GROUP B

I. Expert Group on Inspection Procedures
Specialist Task Force on Analytical Issues

Tasks:

1. Discuss the results of the joint evaluation by Finland and the USA of the GC/MS on-site sample preparation method, for use with the GC/MS analysis, including recommendations, if any, on changes to the approved specifications for the sample preparation kit (when available).

2. Discuss the results of the evaluation and method development by Finland and the USA for on-site GC/MS analysis (when available).

3. Discuss the test scenarios for future OPCW/PTS proficiency tests.

4. Discuss the issue of national accreditation of laboratories seeking designation.

5. Review the report on the progress of evaluation of some items of the inspection equipment procured for evaluation and training of inspectors carried out on the basis of the technical specifications and the specific operational requirements listed in PC-VIII/B/WP.2 (Attachment 1) in accordance with the Note by the Executive Secretary as recorded in PC-XIII/B/2.

Documents:

1. Results of the joint evaluation by Finland and the USA of the GC/MS on-site sample preparation method

2. Results of the evaluation and method development by Finland and the USA for on-site GC/MS analysis

3. "Test scenarios for future OPCW/PTS Proficiency Tests" (to be developed by the Secretariat)

4. Secretariat background paper on possible solutions to the problems associated with the national accreditation required for laboratories seeking designation (to be prepared by the Secretariat after consultations with EAL and ILAC)

5. Report to be compiled by the Secretariat of the results of the evaluation process of specific items of equipment on the basis of the technical specifications and the specific operational requirements listed in PC-VIII/B/WP.2 (Attachment 1) to be carried out in accordance with the Note by the Executive Secretary as recorded in PC-XIII/B/2

II. Expert Group on Inspection Procedures
Specialist Task Force on OPCW Analytical Database

Tasks:

1. Evaluate new submitted spectra.

2. Review the process of re-submission of spectra.

3. Review the status of creation of the electronic database.

4. Evaluate the chromatographic data.

5. Address the issue of the compatibility of on-site data analysis software utilising the central OPCW Analytical Database (if information is provided).

6. Finalise the documentation needed for the certification of the central OPCW Analytical Database.

7. Discuss the format of the compilation containing the approved NMR spectra.

8. Address the technical aspects of the extraction of data from the central OPCW Analytical Database for continuing approved on-site analytical databases.

Documents:

1. Secretariat background paper containing options for the validation of the central OPCW Analytical Database and the on-site analytical databases

2. Information on the on-site data analysis software systems (to be provided by the Secretariat)

III. Expert Group on Inspection Procedures
Specialist Task Force on Inspection Equipment Issues

Tasks:

1. Resolve the issue of the X-ray equipment item, including its possible uses during certain inspection activities, and develop the operational requirements and technical specifications.

2. Resolve the issue of the hydrogen concentration measurement (HCM) non-destructive evaluation (NDE) equipment.

3. Discuss the administrative package addressing the aspect of medico-legal, religious, ethical and chain-of-custody issues associated with using the biomedical module of the alleged use sample collection kit (to be developed by the Secretariat).

4. Resolve the issue of the role of portable devices for on-site determination of acetylcholinesterase activity.

5. Resolve, as necessary, the issue of the operational requirements and technical specifications for the alleged use sample collection kit (biomedical module) if comments are received from Member States.

6. Review the report on the progress of evaluation of some items of the inspection equipment procured for evaluation and training of inspectors carried out on the basis of the technical specifications and the specific operational requirements listed in PC-VIII/B/WP.2 (Attachment 1) in accordance with the Note by the Executive Secretary as recorded in PC-XIII/B/2.

Documents:

1. Operational requirements and technical specifications for the above-mentioned items of inspection equipment, available from the Secretariat

2. Administrative package addressing the aspect of medico-legal, religious, ethical and chain-of-custody issues (to be developed by the Secretariat in consultation with Member States)

3. Comments from Member States on the alleged use sample collection kit (biomedical module)

4. Report to be compiled by the Secretariat of the results of the evaluation process of specific items of equipment on the basis of the technical specifications and the specific operational requirements listed in PC-VIII/B/WP.2 (Attachment 1) to be carried out in accordance with the Note by the Executive Secretary as recorded in PC-XIII/B/2

PART II

PLAN OF ACTIVITIES
OF THE
COMMITTEE ON RELATIONS WITH HOST COUNTRY

Tasks:

1. Monitor progress of the realisation of the OPCW building (see subparagraph 2.5 of PC-XIII/HC/8 and Corr.1).

2. Continue to monitor the requirements for and the availability of suitable accommodation for use as interim accommodation and at an appropriate time, taking account of subparagraph 5.2 of PC-XIII/HC/8, consider and authorise the Executive Secretary to conclude a Tenancy Agreement for such accommodation.

3. Continue to monitor as required all accommodation-related issues, including the realisation of the OPCW building and the OPCW Laboratory and Equipment Store and the preparations for the First Session and subsequent sessions of the Conference of the States Parties.

4. Continue to consider and make recommendations on all issues pertaining to the Host Country Bid (Annex 3 of the Paris Resolution) and the associated Understandings between the Host Country and the Commission concerning the Implementation of Paragraphs 6, 7, 9 and 11 of Annex 3 of the Paris Resolution.

PART III. SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
.	.	.	.	1
4	5	6	7	8
11	12	13	14	15
18 Thriteenth Session	19 Thriteenth Session	20 Thriteenth Session	21 Thriteenth Session	22 Thriteenth Session
25	26	27	28	29

A P R I L 1 9 9 6

M A Y 1 9 9 6

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
.	.	1 Expert Group on CW Issues	2 Expert Group on CW Issues	3
6 a.m.- Expert Group on Financial, Administrative and Personnel Matters - - - p.m. - Committee on Relations with Host Country (if required)	7 Expert Groupon Financial, Administrative and Personnel Matters - - - Third Communications Workshop	8 Third Communications Workshop	9 Expert Group on Financial, Administrative and Personnel Matters - - - Third Communications Workshop	10
13 Expert Group on Data Systems - - - finance group	14 Expert Group on Data Systems - - - finance group	15 finance group	16 PTS Official Holiday	17 finance group
20 OPCW Headquarters Agreement - - - finance group	21 OPCW Headquarters Agreement - - - finance group	22	23 Visa Matters - - - finance group	24 finance group
27 PTS Official Holiday	28 Expert Group on Chemical Industry Issues	29	30 Expert Group on Chemical Industry Issues	31

J U N E 1 9 9 6

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
3 Expert Group on Programme of Work and Budget	4 Expert Group on Programme of Work and Budget	5 task force equipment issues	6 Expert Group on Programme of Work and Budget - - - task force equipment issues	7
10 a.m. - Expert Group on Programme of Work and Budget p.m.- Chairman's consultations	11 Expert Group on Programme of Work and Budget - - - task force on analytical issues	12 task force on analytical issues	13 Expert Group on Programme of Work and Budget - - - task force on analytical issues	14
17 Expert Group on Inspection Procedures	18 Expert Group on Inspection Procedures	19	20 Expert Group on Inspection Procedures	21
24 Expert Group on Technical Cooperation and Assistance	25 Expert Group on Technical Cooperation and Assistance	26	27 a.m. - Working Group A - - - p.m.- Working Group B	28

J U L Y 1 9 9 6

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
1 Expert Group on CW Issues	2 Expert Group on CW Issues	3	4 Expert Group on Old and Abandoned CW	5
8 a.m.- Expert Group on Training (if required)	9 p.m.- Committee On Relations with Host Country (if required)	10	11 a.m. - Planning for the next intersessional period	12
15 No meetings	16 No meetings	17 No meetings	18 No meetings	19 No meetings
22 Fourteenth Session	23 Fourteenth Session	24 Fourteenth Session	25 Fourteenth Session	26 Fourteenth Session (if required) followed consecutively by the Workshop On Legal Aspects Of Breaches Of Confidentiality (Half a day) and the National Authorities' Workshop (full day, including saturday if necessary)