The OPCW and the Government of the People’s Republic of China jointly organised a seminar on the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and Chemical Safety and Security Management from 23 to 25 April 2014 in Beijing.
The seminar was attended by 51 participants from 17 States Parties in the ASEAN and SAARC regions*, and from Myanmar, a Signatory State. Participants included representatives from National Authorities, chemical industries, industry associations, and chemical industry regulators
The seminar was opened by Mr Wang Qun, Director-General of China’s Department of Arms Control and Disarmament, and by H.E. Mr Alexander Horin, Chairperson of the OPCW Executive Council. Director-General Wang noted the importance of chemical safety and security programmes and the OPCW’s support in this area for the ASEAN and SAARC regions. Ambassador Horin underlined the strong cooperation between the OPCW and Government of China in promoting the goals of disarmament, non-proliferation, the peaceful uses of chemistry, and full implementation of Article XI of the Convention.
The participants considered new approaches that can be adopted in relation to chemical safety and security management, and shared their experiences in ensuring the safe and secure handling of chemicals. The seminar helped identify the needs of States Parties in the ASEAN and SAARC regions and concrete measures for the OPCW to consider.
Speakers from the USA were invited to make presentations, and the representative from Myanmar reiterated his government’s intention to ratify the CWC.
* Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, USA, and Vietnam