Post-Assad Syria faces a critical test on removing chemical weapons

Informing Ambassadors, Izumi Nakamitsu, the UN High Representative for disarmament, welcomed the steps taken by the country to deal with the country Organization for a ban on chemical weapons (Opcw) and work on fully respect for international law.

“Syria began to give steps According to this goal, “she said, emphasizing the importance of exploiting this moment in order to close all outstanding issues related to chemical weapons.

Mrs. Nakamitsu met the advice accordingly Resolution 2118.

Terrible heritage

Adopted unanimously in September 2013. years, Resolution managed the elimination of chemical weapons Syria Program after a Deadly Sarinsky Gas Attack in Ghoutiwho allegedly killed 1,111 people and left more than 6,000 with serious health complications.

The resolution needs Syria to fully declare and destroy your chemical arsenal under the supervision of the OPCW and Warned of the consequencesincluding below Chapter VII Charter UNwhich provide executive measures to address the threat of international peace and security.

Since Syria joined CWC in 2013. year, chemical weapons have repeatedly increased concerns about the accuracy and completeness of his declarations, said Mrs. Nakamitsu.

Despite 20 amendments to the initial submission, the OPCW declaration team determined that the former regime did not provide sufficient and accurate information.

As a result, 19 unresolved issues remain, including concerns about unregistered chemicals and ammunition. In addition, the OPCW investigations documented multiple examples of chemical weapons in Syria, several of which performed the Syrian armed forces.

““Indisputable” that the previous authorities in Syria did not declare the full scope of its chemical weapon program and have continued to use, and may produce, chemical weapons after joining Convention“” Ms. Nakamitsu told the Council, stating the reports on the Technical Secretariat of the OPCW.

New chapter of cooperation

“The situation that other previous Syrian authorities is extremely worrying,” he continued, noting that the readiness signaled the new authorities of Syria to turn the page.

During the visit of Damascus 8. February, the general director of the OPCU met on the top of Syrian officials, who assured him about their commitment to dismantle the chemical weapon program, added.

The external minister was formally appointed by the focus for chemical weapons within the Government and held meetings with the OPCW on the implementation of its “action plan in Syria”.

The OPCW technical team is expected to be distributed to Damascus, to work on setting a permanent presence in the country and planning joint inspections.

Fighting in coastal areas

Despite promising development, Ms. Nakamitsu warned that the road would be advanced in advance, because Syria continues to face significant challenges of humanitarian, security and recovery.

Development on the field The introduction of these concerns, with severe struggles registered in coastal areas between the Syrian organic bodies and soldiers loyal to the former regime. According to media reports, at least 70 people were killed.

Among them was a relief and work agency (Unrwa) A member of the staff who was caught in crossfire on the way back from work.

UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen warned of an unstable field situationemphasizing the urgent need for restraint.

“We still establish precise facts, is obvious the immediate need to restrain all sides, and fully compliance with the protection of civilians in accordance with international law,” said the statement.

International support required

Back to Security CouncilMs. Nakamitsu reminded the ambassadors that Syria would need “strong support” from international partners.

“In order to achieve all tasks needed for RID Syria of all chemical weapons, the Technical Secretariat of the OPCW and the new authorities in Syria will require strong support and additional resources From the international community, “she said.

She called for members of the Council to unite in support for these unseen efforts, emphasizing that the elimination of chemical weapons in Syria is not only a national priority, but a matter of regional and global security.

“The United Nations are willing to provide support, however, we can continue to work our part to support the norm against the use of chemical weapons – anywhere, at any time,” concluded.