The UK Permanent Representative to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), Joanna Roper, delivered a significant statement at the 106th Executive Council.
Her address emphasized the threats posed by chemical weapons and underscored the importance of international cooperation in upholding the principles of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
The Significance of the Statement
Joanna Roper began by congratulating Ambassador Terán Parral on his new role as Executive Council Chair and expressed the UK’s full support for the incoming members.
She acknowledged the comprehensive programme of work outlined by Director General Arias, highlighting significant international cooperation and assistance activities, including the recent designation of a laboratory in Algeria.
Addressing Emerging Technologies
Roper noted the importance of discussing the implications of emerging technology and artificial intelligence for the OPCW.
She stressed the UK’s commitment to supporting the programme of work, particularly in enhancing geographical and gender representation within the organization.
Chemical Weapons Threats
Chemical weapons continue to pose a severe threat to international security. Roper pointed out the widespread use of Riot Control Agents by Russia in Ukraine, a clear breach of Article 1 of the CWC.
She reiterated the UK’s confidence in the US determination that Russia has used chloropicrin, a scheduled chemical, against Ukraine.
The UK, alongside 12 other States Parties, requested the Executive Council to clarify reports of Russia’s repeated breaches of the CWC.
Supporting Ukraine
The UK is actively seeking to reduce the threat posed by Russian chemical weapons to the Ukrainian people. Roper welcomed the recent OPCW technical assistance visit to Kyiv, which delivered crucial detection and protective equipment.
This effort was partially funded by the UK’s £350,000 contribution to the OPCW Assistance to Ukraine project. Roper reaffirmed the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine, particularly following the Russian attack on a children’s hospital.
Addressing Syria’s Chemical Weapons Declaration
The OPCW Declarations Assessment Team has identified serious issues with the Assad regime’s chemical weapons declaration. Over ten years since Syria acceded to the CWC, an accurate declaration remains elusive.
Roper emphasized the need for continued support for the Technical Secretariat and its Syria missions to mitigate the significant risks posed to international security by the Assad regime and regionally based non-state actors.
Ensuring Accountability
Roper called for the full implementation of November’s CSP 28 Decision, which involves applying more scrutiny to toxic chemical transfers and working towards accountability for chemical weapon use. She stressed the importance of giving victims the justice they deserve.
Summary
Roper concluded by highlighting the growing challenges to the CWC and the principles that underpin it. She called on all States Parties to fully commit to supporting the OPCW’s work to address current and future threats.
Main Points from the UK Statement at OPCW 106th Executive Council
Topic |
Key Points |
|---|---|
| Support for New Chair | UK congratulates Ambassador Terán Parral and supports incoming Executive Council members. |
| International Cooperation | Recognizes significant achievements and international cooperation activities. |
| Emerging Technologies | Emphasizes importance of discussing implications of emerging technology and AI for OPCW. |
| Chemical Weapons Threat | Highlights Russia’s use of Riot Control Agents and scheduled chemicals in Ukraine. |
| Support for Ukraine | Welcomes OPCW assistance visit to Kyiv, funded partly by the UK, to reduce chemical threats. |
| Syria’s Chemical Declaration | Identifies serious issues with Assad regime’s declaration and calls for continued support. |
| Ensuring Accountability | Stresses need for full implementation of CSP 28 Decision and accountability for chemical use. |
| Conclusion | Urges States Parties to commit to supporting OPCW against growing challenges. |
Final Thoughts
The UK’s statement at the 106th OPCW Executive Council underscores the critical importance of addressing chemical weapons threats through international cooperation and technological advancements.
By supporting the OPCW’s work, the UK aims to ensure global security and uphold the principles of the Chemical Weapons Convention.
Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office & Joanna Roper CMG.
