UN Welcomes Syria’s Cooperation with OPCW on Chemical Weapons Program
The United Nations has welcomed the steps taken by Syria to cooperate with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), describing these developments as “encouraging.”
During a briefing to the UN Security Council last night on the resolution concerning Syria’s chemical weapons program, the UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Izumi Nakamitsu, stated: “The new Syrian administration has taken steps to engage with the OPCW, work toward full compliance with international law, and embark on a new chapter of cooperation to address outstanding issues.” Nakamitsu expressed her encouragement and welcomed these recent developments.
A New Political Reality Offers Opportunities
Nakamitsu highlighted that the new political reality in Syria presents an opportunity to gain long-awaited clarity regarding the country’s chemical weapons program. She praised the Syrian government’s commitment to full and transparent cooperation with the OPCW, emphasizing the importance of this shift in approach.
The UN official also noted that Syria and the OPCW’s Technical Secretariat have already begun working toward achieving these goals. The Security Council was informed about upcoming steps, including the deployment of a team of technical experts from the OPCW to Damascus. This team will collaborate with Syrian authorities and start joint planning for inspections at chemical weapons sites.
Call for International Support
Nakamitsu urged the international community to support these efforts and provide the necessary resources to ensure their success. She underscored the importance of global backing to help Syria meet its obligations under international law and resolve lingering concerns about its chemical weapons program.
The UN’s acknowledgment of Syria’s renewed cooperation marks a significant step toward transparency and compliance with international disarmament agreements. As these efforts progress, the international community remains hopeful for a resolution to one of the most contentious issues surrounding Syria’s past.
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