Excellencies,
Distinguished Representatives of National Authorities,
Ladies and gentlemen,
I am delighted to address you as we conclude the 27th Annual Meeting of National Authorities, the second-largest OPCW gathering after the Conference of States Parties.
I am encouraged by the dedication and expertise shared over the course of this meeting.
Your active participation in plenary sessions and during regional and thematic discussions has been invaluable to advancing our shared objectives.
This meeting has provided updates on the Technical Secretariat’s support to national stakeholders of the Convention, in collaboration with relevant external partners.
The International Cooperation and Assistance Programme, organised by the ICA Division, continues to assist States Parties in implementing their obligations under the Convention, strengthen protection and response capacities against the use or threat of use of chemical weapons, and promote the peaceful uses of chemistry.
This work is carried out by the Division’s three branches: the Implementation Support Branch; the International Cooperation Branch; and the Assistance and Protection Branch.
Furthermore, the success of this meeting results from the impressive turnout of National Authorities from 141 States Parties around the world.
Your commitment to strengthening the implementation of the Convention has been again evidenced by the substantive contributions you made over the past three days.
Your rich exchange highlighted the progress we achieved together, but also the challenges that still lie ahead.
We have carefully taken note of your insights.
They will directly inform our 2026 programme planning across the International Cooperation and Assistance Division, and other relevant units within the Organisation.
Distinguished delegates,
One key theme that emerged prominently this year was the need to adapt to the risks and opportunities presented by rapid advancements in science and technology, including artificial intelligence, and new production methods in chemical industry.
The discussions also underscored the importance of updating national legislations, reinforcing scientific oversight mechanisms, and strengthening collaboration between National Authorities and the broader industrial, scientific, and technological communities.
Only through such cooperation can we harness innovation effectively and responsibly, and prevent the re-emergence of chemical weapons.
A second major highlight was the exchange on enhancing national measures to prevent the illicit transfer of toxic chemicals.
The meeting reaffirmed the importance of coherent and enforceable legislation, sustained capacity building, and effective inter-agency coordination to uphold the integrity of the Convention’s transfer regime and manage emerging challenges related to the trade of scheduled chemicals.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for the Secretariat and States Parties to discuss ways to further strengthen capacity-development support by assessing needs, sharing best practices, and improving national programmatic design.
An additional highlight of this year’s meeting was the participation of many of our key international partners.
These included the World Customs Organization, INTERPOL, EUROPOL, the 1540 Committee, the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI), the Asser Institute, as well as independent experts such as Dr. Ralf Trapp.
Their engagement has enriched our exchanges with complementary perspectives, and demonstrated the power of partnership.
Together, we can strengthen the global architecture that sustains the Chemical Weapons Convention.
Distinguished delegates,
The Secretariat remains deeply committed to supporting all stakeholders of the Convention, including those in government, industry, and academia.
Together, we will continue transforming shared commitment into tangible capability, so that each State Party can meet its obligations with confidence and contribute meaningfully to a world free of chemical weapons.
I would also like to express my heartfelt appreciation to my colleagues across the Technical Secretariat for their professionalism, dedication, and teamwork in organising this meeting.
The International Cooperation and Assistance Division has worked tirelessly to make this event a success.
I also extend my sincere thanks to our interpreters, whose skill and adaptability have ensured clear communication and mutual understanding throughout our discussions.
Dear delegates,
You have made this meeting an exceptional one, with your insight, engagement, and sincerity.
Your active participation has reaffirmed your commitment to our shared mission and the enduring value of international cooperation.
Before you return to your respective countries, I would like to extend my gratitude to each of you.
Your continued engagement and ownership are essential to ensuring that the Convention remains effective and relevant.
We look forward to continuing our cooperation.
I wish you a pleasant afternoon here in The Hague and a safe journey home.
And for those who will remain for the Conference of the States Parties, I look forward to seeing you again next week.
Thank you for your kind attention.