The Hague, Netherlands — 10 September 2018 — The Director-General of the Organisation for the Prohibition of the Chemical Weapons (OPCW), H.E. Ambassador Fernando Arias, met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Denmark, H.E. Mr. Anders Samuelsen, during a visit today to OPCW Headquarters in The Hague.
The Director-General briefed the Foreign Affairs Minister on the progress in the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). They discussed the approach to and anticipated outcomes for the upcoming Fourth Review Conference of the CWC, progress in implementing the June decision on addressing the threat of chemical weapons use, and plans for upgrading the OPCW Laboratory.
The Director-General commended Denmark’s efforts in upholding the norm against the use of chemical weapons. He acknowledged Denmark’s invaluable assistance for the verification and destruction-related activities of the Organisation, especially in Syria and Libya.
The Director-General stated: “I am impressed with Denmark’s stalwart support for the OPCW. I hope that the Kingdom of Denmark and the OPCW will continue to collaborate to eradicate chemical weapons in concert with the other Member States.”
The Minster remarked: “The threat from chemical weapons is clear, present and takes many forms. The unacceptable breaches of the ban on the use of chemical weapons, not least in Syria and Salisbury, are tragic reminders. The decision to establish an attribution mechanism in the OPCW sends a clear message. There must be no impunity. Denmark remains committed to the fight to uphold the ban. Director-General Arias and I discussed how best to achieve progress and secure OPCW’s leading role.”
