Syria’s Caretaker Foreign Minister Advocates for Chemical Weapons Eradication at OPCW

On March 5, 2025, Syria’s caretaker Foreign Minister, Mr. Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, addressed the OPCW Executive Council, emphasizing Syria’s commitment to dismantling its chemical weapons legacy. He sought international support to achieve compliance with international law and justice for victims. The initiative follows a visit by the OPCW Director-General, who expressed optimism regarding renewed collaboration between Syria and the OPCW.

On March 5, 2025, Syria’s caretaker Foreign Minister, Mr. Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, addressed the 108th session of the Executive Council at the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in The Hague. He articulated the new Syrian Government’s commitment to fostering transparency and collaboration with the international community as part of Syria’s reconstruction efforts in the aftermath of the chemical weapons program developed under the previous regime.

Minister al-Shaibani emphasized the necessity to dismantle the remnants of the chemical weapons program, pledging that Syria will actively work towards justice for victims while ensuring compliance with international laws. He called upon the international community’s support to fulfill this commitment, reflecting a serious dedication to the task at hand.

The Minister’s participation in the Executive Council followed the visit by OPCW Director-General, Ambassador Fernando Arias, to Damascus on February 8, 2025. During this visit, Mr. Arias met with interim President Mr. Ahmed al-Sharaa and Minister al-Shaibani to discuss cooperation for the eradication of chemical weapons from Syria.

In his remarks, Director-General Arias acknowledged the significance of the Minister’s presence, stating that it signifies the new Syrian authorities’ earnest commitment to collaborate with the OPCW. He noted the evolving political conditions in Syria present a pivotal opportunity to complete the elimination of the chemical weapons program and assured the OPCW’s readiness to support Syria in meeting its obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).

Since Syria’s accession to the CWC in October 2013, there have been persistent challenges regarding the accuracy and completeness of its declarations concerning chemical weapons. The OPCW has conducted several investigations, documenting instances of chemical weapons use and identifying the previous Syrian military as responsible. Consequently, some of Syria’s rights within the OPCW have been suspended since April 2021 due to these ongoing issues.

During the recent visit, Director-General Arias presented a 9-point Action Plan aimed at reinforcing compliance with the CWC. This plan outlines essential steps, including the establishment of an inventory of chemical weapons-related materials and long-term strategies for compliance and cooperation with the OPCW.

The Executive Council plays a vital role in overseeing the Technical Secretariat’s efforts and ensuring compliance with the Convention. Syria became a Member State of the OPCW in 2013, when all declared chemical weapons were removed under joint OPCW-UN oversight. However, questions regarding the veracity of Syria’s declarations persist.

Currently, three operational OPCW missions address chemical weapons issues in Syria: the Declaration Assessment Team (DAT), the Fact-Finding Mission (FFM), and the Investigation and Identification Team (IIT). The OPCW, responsible for the implementation of the CWC and supported by its 193 Member States, remains committed to eradicating chemical weapons globally. Since the inception of the Convention, the OPCW has successfully verified the destruction of over 72,000 metric tonnes of chemical agents, earning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its disarmament efforts.

In conclusion, Syria’s caretaker Foreign Minister’s address at the OPCW Executive Council underscores the new government’s commitment to transparency and international collaboration in eradicating chemical weapons. With the OPCW’s ongoing support and a comprehensive action plan, there lies a renewed hope for addressing the legacy of chemical weapons in Syria. The successful resolution of these issues is pivotal not only for Syria but also for reaffirming global disarmament norms.

Original Source: www.opcw.org