The Hague, 7 June 2004

Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova Visits the OPCW

H.E. Mr Andrei Stratan, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova, visited the headquarters of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in The Hague on 1 June 2004.

OPCW Director-General, Mr Rogelio Pfirter, gave Mr Stratan a brief overview of the status of the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), as regards chemical weapons destruction, non-proliferation, the Organisation’s programme delivery in the areas of assistance and protection and international cooperation in the field of the peaceful uses of chemistry.

H.E. Mr Andrei Stratan and Mr Pfirter also discussed the threat of terrorism and the need to apply stringent controls in trans-border shipments. Mr Pfirter noted that the United Nations’ Security Council Resolution 1540, places binding obligations on all States to ensure the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, including chemical weapons and their means of delivery.

H.E. Mr Andrei Stratan reaffirmed his Government’s strong commitment to the goals of the Chemical Weapons Convention.

In September 2003, a national training course was conducted for Moldovan officials to enhance national implementation of the CWC. Moldova also participated in the Third Regional Meeting of National Authorities of States Parties in Eastern Europe that took place in Bucharest from 17 to 19 May 2004 and supports the need to strengthen the regional network that will further the effective implementation of the Convention, in particular the requirements of States Parties regarding transfers of Scheduled Chemicals under the CWC and the legislative and administrative provisions necessary to prevent terrorist access to these dangerous materials.

Mr Pfirter expressed his appreciation for the support provided by the Government of the Republic of Moldova and looked forward to Moldova’s continuing, active involvement in the work of the Organisation.