The 105th Session of the Executive Council of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) has drawn to a close in The Hague, marking an important moment in the ongoing efforts to uphold the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
Pakistan, represented by H.E. Ambassador Suljuk Mustansar Tarar, seized the opportunity to advocate for the full and non-discriminatory implementation of the Convention. In his national statement delivered during the session, Ambassador Tarar emphasized the urgent need for robust adherence to the principles outlined in the Chemical Weapons Convention.
He underscored Pakistan’s commitment to promoting peace and security, particularly in light of the ongoing tragic situation in Gaza. Pakistan reiterated its call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. Pakistan’s dedication to upholding the Chemical Weapons Convention is evident through its robust national implementation mechanism and the establishment of a sub-regional Assistance and Protection Centre, which serves as a beacon of excellence in the region. Additionally, Pakistan boasts an OPCW designated laboratory, further demonstrating its commitment to supporting capacity-building activities under the Convention.
Ambassador Tarar also addressed the evolving threat landscape, noting the potential risks posed by artificial intelligence in the proliferation of chemical weapons. Pakistan stands ready to contribute to Director-General Ambassador Fernando Arias’ initiative to address this emerging challenge, reaffirming its proactive stance on global security issues. Central to Pakistan’s message is the importance of consensus-based decision-making within the OPCW framework.
Ambassador Tarar emphasized that while Pakistan remains constant in its commitment to the Chemical Weapons Convention, it is imperative to revert to consensus in all decision-making processes. As an active member of the 41-member Executive Council, Pakistan plays a key role in shaping the OPCW’s agenda and policies. Furthermore, Pakistan’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the OPCW’s Executive Council, Suljuk Mustansar Tarar, holds the prestigious position of Chair of the 28th Conference of States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention. This leadership role underscores Pakistan’s unwavering dedication to advancing disarmament objectives and promoting international cooperation in combating the proliferation of chemical weapons.
