The Hague, 30 July 2002

On 29 July 2002, the third course of the OPCW Associate Programme commenced.

The 10 week-course will provide training for twelve participants from developing countries and from countries whose economies are in transition. The Programme facilitates the industry-related national implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) by offering training in chemistry to personnel from industry, university and government. Best practice in chemical industry is also demonstrated, serving to promote trade and broadening the basis for future recruitment to industry-related posts in the National Authorities and the OPCW.

The participants in the third course of the Associate Programme come from Burundi, Croatia, Eritrea, Fiji, Georgia, Jordan, Moldova, Mozambique Nepal, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Sudan.

The curriculum covers the implementation of the Convention, chemistry/chemical engineering, chemical safety, and simulations of modern chemical plant operations.

Member States, the European Chemical Industry Council and chemical industry associations have offered their generous support for the programme.

Promotion of international cooperation in the peaceful use of chemistry is one of the core objectives of the Chemical Weapons Convention.