The Hague, 27 March 2000
Number 09
 
Press Release

New Zealand's Minister for Disarmament and Arms Control to Visit OPCW

The New Zealand Minister for Disarmament and Arms Control, H.E. Mr Matt Robson, paid an official visit to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on Monday, 27 March 2000.

While at the OPCW, Mr Robson met with Acting Director-General, Mr John Gee, to discuss issues relating to the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). He received an extensive briefing on the activities of the OPCW, and offered to lend New Zealand's assistance in strengthening the OPCW's links with the countries of the Pacific region.

Mr Robson is a barrister and is one of the founding members of the Alliance Party in New Zealand. His current portfolio includes being Minister for Disarmament and Arms Control and Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs, as well as Minister of Corrections and Minister for Courts.


The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) came into existence on 29 April 1997. Its deed of foundation—the Chemical Weapons Convention—aims to achieve four principal objectives: the elimination of chemical weapons and of the capacity to develop them, the verification of non-proliferation, international assistance and protection in the event of the use or threat of use of chemical weapons, and international cooperation and assistance in the peaceful use of chemistry.

For further information, please contact the Media and Public Affairs Branch at: +31 70 416-3710

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