The Hague, 14 October 2003

The Foreign Minister of Romania visits OPCW Headquarters

H.E. Mr Mircea Dan Geoana, the Foreign Minister of Romania, visited the headquarters of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on 14 October 2003. In his discussions with OPCW Director-General, Mr Rogelio Pfirter, the Foreign Minister emphasized Romania’s unwavering commitment to the Chemical Weapons Convention and to the mission of the Organisation.

Mr Geoana noted that Romania is actively engaged in providing Member States in the Central European region the support required to effectively implement the global chemical weapons ban.

On behalf of the Organisation, Mr Pfirter gratefully acknowledged the long-standing, generous and active contribution Romania has made to the Organisation.

Foreign Minister Geoana reiterated Romania’s offer to the Organisation to make available those facilities that may be of use in carrying out their common mission. His government reaffirmed its willingness to continue to play a bridging role in the region by providing cooperation and assistance to neighbouring Member States to enhance the chemical transfer regime.

The Director-General expressed his gratitude for the important role played by Romania in ensuring effective non-proliferation.

The Foreign Minister extended an official invitation to the Director-General to visit Romania, and both are looking forward to co-hosting the Third Annual Meeting of Eastern European National Authorities to be held in Bucharest in May 2004.