Directly from the OPCW in The Hague. Consignment of Sulfur Mustard Delivered to Latakia and Removed from Syria The Government of Syria today transported a fourth consignment of chemicals, a quantity of sulfur mustard, to the port of Latakia where it was loaded onto a cargo ship and removed from the country. The sulfur mustard is one of five “priority chemicals” in Syria’s chemical weapons programme and will be destroyed at sea aboard a U.S. vessel, the MV Cape Ray. “The removal of this sulfur mustard is an encouraging and positive development,” said the OPCW Director-General, Ambassador Ahmet Üzümcü. “Much work nonetheless remains to be done, and we look to the Syrian Government to accelerate its efforts to transfer the remaining chemicals in regular, predictable and systematic movements.” For more details on the OPCW’s activities in Syria, visit our special web page at:http://www.opcw.org/news-room/syria-and-the-opcw/ As the implementing body for the Chemical Weapons Convention, the OPCWoversees the global campaign to permanently eliminate these weapons. Since its entry into force in 1997 the Convention has become the fastest growing arms treaty in history with 190 States Parties, and 82%  of all declared chemical arsenals have already been destroyed under OPCW verification – an unprecedented achievement in the annals of disarmament.

By Robert Buurke, publisher Diplomat Magazine, bridging the gap. On the occasion of the Global Research Alliance on Agricultural Greenhouse gases (GRA) and on behalf of the Ministry of Economic Affairs a diplomatic event took place at Tuesday 11^th of February 2014. More than 30 Ambassadors of so called non member countries gathered in the morning at the Ministry of Economic Affairs at Bezuidenhoutseweg 73 and they were welcomed by Roald Laperre, Deputy Director-General for Agro which opening was followed by a speech on the role of the GRA in meeting global challenges by Matthew Hooper, Ministry of Primary Industries, Government of New Zealand. Besides, H.E. Dr Alvaro Moerzinger, Ambassador of Uruguay gave some very interesting perspectives of his country about membership of the Global Research on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases. The morning programme ended with an output and outcomes of the Global Research on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases by prof. dr. ir. R. Rabbinge, the vice-chair of the Global Research on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases.. In the afternoon, the Deputy Director-General of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Ambassadors, authorities, alliance delegates and distinguished guests visited the Wageningen University and Research Centre which is situated in the eastern part of The Netherlands and which University is supervised by the Ministry of Economic Affairs. After an opening speech by dr.ir. Martin Scholten, general director Animal Science Group of Wageningen University and co-chair of the Livestock Research Group both the so-called Unifarm as well as the respiration chambers at CARUS programme were visited. In the end of this interesting programme a reception was offered by the University of Wageningen. All Ambassodors enjoyed this very interesting programme and they will certainly keep in contact with the University of Wageningen in refer to the Global Research on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases!            

By Bonnie Klap — An endless stream of cars filled the street leading up to the residence of His Excellency Mr. Gharib Abadi in Wassenaar, as hundreds of guests attended the reception hosted by Ambassador Gharib  Abadi on the occasion of the 35th  Anniversary of the Islamic Revolution of Iran and to bid farewell. Ambassador Gharib  Abadi will return to Iran after serving his country as Ambassador of Iran  to The Netherlands for 4 years. In his speech he touched on the relations between Iran and The Netherlands which date back  400 years. Ambassador  Gharib Abadi also emphasized the fact that Iran is a peace-loving nation.

Statement by the Director-General

The movement of the third consignment of chemicals fromSyriatook place today. The Director-General, while noting this movement and the recent destruction of 93 percent of the Isopropanol, has expressed hope that these activities generate new momentum. A significant effort is needed to ensure the chemicals that still remain in Syria are removed – in accordance with a concrete schedule and without further delays – consistent with the obligations of the Syrian Arab Republic deriving from the OPCW Executive Council decisions and UN Security Council Resolution 2118.

Statement by H.E Mr. Kazem Gharib Abadi, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

On the Occasion of 35^th Anniversary of the Islamic Revolution in Iran The Hague -10 February 2014.

 

In the Name of God.

Excellencies,  Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, It is a great honor and deep privilege for me as the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Kingdom of the Netherlands to cordially host and receive you, distinguished guests on the occasion of the 35^th anniversary of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s Revolution. In the period of the bipolar system, the 1979  Islamic revolution of Iran under the leadership of late Imam Khomeini has brought significant political, social, cultural and economic changes in my country and  the Islamic model of governance (religious democracy) was unanimously voted for and approved by more than 98.2 percent of our nation. Independence, rule of law, freedom, dialogue, pluralism and justice are the most important principles and objectives of the Islamic Republic In domestic politics. Iran is a country which is relied on its nation and its participation in the management of the country. Ladies and Gentlemen, Iran, as an ancient country, is well known for its 7000 years of civilization, virtual arts, history, literature, handicrafts, diverse cuisine, architecture, music, cultural and ethnic diversity, deserts, mountains, international registered monuments like Persepolis and Bam and so on. Although Iran has the second proven natural gas reserves and the third proven oil reserves in the world, but it should be acknowledged that Iran is more than an energy superpower. Oil, gas, diverse mines and natural resources have made the country as a land of opportunities and huge capabilities. During the past 35 years, Iran has successfully made tremendous achievements in various fields such as science, medicine, nanotechnology, stem cells, aerospace, satellites, defense, education, health, industry, mining, agriculture and peaceful use of nuclear energy. Ladies and Gentlemen, As you are informed, Iranians at home and abroad participated in the eleventh presidential election on 14 June 2013 and recorded an epic turnout in determining their own destiny. Dr. Rohani was elected as the new president of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Massive participation of %72.2 of the Iranian nation in the election once again indicated the strong links between the state and the nation. The result of the election, which was unexpected for some outside analysts and politicians has proved that the right of the people to select their own choices is always respected and guaranteed by the country. By participating in the election the peace-loving people of Iran expressed their interest in developing friendship, cooperation and dialogue with civilized nations and states across the world. The hope that respect to shared human values and interests in view of a high spirit of cooperation would lead to the formation of a world without threats and intimidation and full of welfare, and spiritual and material perfection. Iran’s new president from the very beginning declared that will follow a “path of wisdom, moderation and hope, justice and enhancing mutual trust between Iran and other countries on the basis of mutual respect.” The real message of the president to the international community is that we have common interests, joint goals to promote peace, security and tranquility in the region and the world. Distinguished Guests, Recently we witnessed a significant diplomatic development between Iran and P5+1. Seven countries agreed on a provisional plan of action regarding the nuclear issue on 24^th November 2013 in Geneva. The Geneva deal, which was made through diplomacy and negotiation, is a new sign of an emerging mutual confidence building and respect.  The interim deal is an “important achievement” but a “first significant step” toward resolving an “unnecessary crisis” based on a win-win approach, stressing that the two sides need to work together based on “equal footing, mutual respect and common benefits.” The Islamic Republic of Iran as a pivotal player in the Middle East has great interest in peace, tranquillity, progress and security and wishes lasting, sustainable and prosperous future for all peace-loving nations. We believe that constructive and effective engagement among countries would pave the way for better and common understanding and achievements. Iranians are a peace-loving nation, and their rich culture and history is deeply rooted in wisdom, reason and interact with other nations. Ladies and Gentlemen, Since my mission as the ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Kingdom of the Netherlands will come to an end this month, I would also like to talk very briefly about our relations with the Netherlands. Relations between two countries date back to 400 years ago and have continued until today, through which the two nations and countries have developed a deeper understanding and  promoted their national interests. Taking into account this principle that “the role of the diplomats is the construction and adjustment of the relations rather than its destruction”, my colleagues and I tried to take any opportunity to promote the relations between the two countries during the past 50 months. I would like to acknowledge that the two countries have common interests in several bilateral, regional and international areas which necessitates their cooperation and interaction. Ministers for foreign affairs of two countries have always been in touch during past four years. The President of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands have also met each other in Davos recently and negotiated about a variety of issues. Many cultural events take place, annually among the two countries. More than 5000 Dutch tourists pay visits to Iran, which as a result they become also friends of Iran when they come back to their country. More than thirty six thousand of Iranians live here in the Netherlands and while they are representing Iranian culture which we are proud of them, are contributing to the development of this country. The Netherlands is our third commercial partner in the Europe and the volume of business is more than 1.5 billion euros annually, which I believe there are rooms to be increased to 5 billion euros. To discuss further opportunities to promote the relations and better understanding, two Dutch parliamentarian and trade delegations will pay a visit to Iran soon. In conclusion, I wish best of luck for all of you and please accept my appreciation for all contacts, cooperation and interaction which existed amongst us. All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act toward one another in a spirit of mercy and brotherhood. Thank you very much.  

His Majesty King Willem-Alexander attends Friday from 7 to Tuesday, February 11, 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi on. He has been invited by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). As honorary member Her Majesty Queen Máxima will accompany the King. Prime Minister Rutte of Friday 7 to Saturday, February 8 present at the Olympic Winter Games. The King, Queen Máxima and Prime Minister attend Friday night’s opening ceremony. Minister Schippers of Health, Welfare and Sport is traveling to Sochi on Monday, February 17 and Thursday, February 20th to attend the Winter Olympics.

TRIPOLI– At a joint press conference in the Libyan capital today, Libya’s Foreign Minister, Mr Mohamed Abdulaziz, announced that as of 26 January 2014 Libya has destroyed the remaining mustard gas filled in artillery projectiles and aerial bombs. Libya had previously completed last year the disposal of bulk mustard.

The announcement followed a visit to the site in south-eastern Libya where the destruction operations took place by OPCW Director-General Ahmet Üzümcü and representatives of Germany and the United States, whose governments provided Libya aid to eliminate its stockpile. “The destruction of these munitions was a major undertaking in arduous, technically challenging circumstances, as we saw first-hand earlier today at the remote Ruwagha Chemical Weapon Destruction Facility,” the Director-General said. “From start to finish, meeting these challenges was the product of close cooperation between Libya, the OPCW Technical Secretariat and other States Parties.” States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) are obligated to declare and destroy all chemical weapons and related materials they may possess, under the verification of the OPCW. On joining the CWC in January 2004, Libya declared to the OPCW possession of nearly 25 metric tonnes of bulk sulfur mustard agent; several thousand unloaded aerial munitions designed for use with chemical warfare agents; and several chemical weapons production facilities. The declared aerial munitions were immediately destroyed in March 2004, and in the ensuing years the production facilities were either destroyed or converted to peaceful purposes under the OPCW’s approval and verification. Operations to destroy the bulk sulfur mustard agent began in October 2010 but were suspended in February 2011 when the destruction facility malfunctioned. Following the conclusion of Libya’s civil conflict, the new Government declared a newly discovered amount of munitions loaded with sulfur mustard that had not been acknowledged in Libya’s original declaration. Germany, Canada and the United States provided assistance to the new government to resume destruction operations at Ruwagha in early 2013. Preparations for the destruction of chemical precursors, which are Category 2 chemicals, are planned to start later and their destruction is to be completed by December 2016. At today’s press conference, the Libyan Foreign Minister and OPCW Director-General were joined by the U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear, Chemical and Biological Defense Programs, the Honorable Andrew C. Weber; the U.S. Ambassador to Libya, H.E. Deborah Jones; the German Ambassador to the OPCW,  H.E. Eberhard Schanze; and Canada’s Chargé d’affaires in Tripoli, Mr Denis Thibault. For more details on Libya, see http://www.opcw.org/the-opcw-and-libya/libya-facts-and-figures/

Cuba President pro-tempore of the CELAC culminated successfully.  By Zelmys Maria Dominguez Cortina, Ambassador of Cuba to the Kingdom of The Netherlands. Successfully completed the II Summit of Heads of State and Government of the CELAC (Latin American and Caribbean Community) held on 28-29 January in Havana, Cuba, which was preceded by the meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs from 26 to 27 January. CELAC is composed of 33 States which were overwhelming represented in that event at the highest level. The Cuban Army General Raul Castro Ruz, President of the Council of State and Ministers of the Republic of Cuba in his closing remarks stressed the seriousness and responsibility with which Cuba had exercised its Presidency. He also thanked all those present for the valuable support received, on behalf of the Government and of all the Cuban people, and for your participation in “these days of broad and profound discussions of our countries’ biggest concerns.” He added that “the documents adopted at this Second Summit have reaffirmed our commitment with the values that led to the foundation of CELAC and our strong belief that unity amid diversity as well as the Latin American and Caribbean integration are the only viable alternatives for the region. We have reached important agreements on transcendental issues, such as the promotion of a “Zone of Peace” in the region and the rules and regulations required to ensure that the intraregional and extra-regional cooperation brings about tangible benefits for this community. He pointed out that among other things that “CELAC has reiterated, among other aspects, the unrestricted respect for the Purposes and Principles contained in the Charter of the United Nations and International Law. It has reaffirmed that, in order to eradicate poverty, it is indispensable to change the present world economic order, promote solidarity and cooperation and demand compliance with the development assistance commitments that have been entered into. Emphasis has been made on the importance of the State’s permanent sovereignty over their natural resources. We intend to establish the best ways to exercise that right”. He added that “We likewise expressed our firm determination to work in order to cope with the challenges posed by the international situation and make every effort to promote equity and social inclusion, eradicate discrimination, inequalities, marginalization, human rights violations and the infringements of the Rule of Law” With respect to Cuba, it reaffirmed that it will continue working hard in the CELAC, to continue the process of consolidation of this organization. Cuba handed over the Presidency pro-tempore of CELAC to the President of Costa Rica, HE Mrs. Laura Chinchilla, who thanked Cuba and pledged to continue working for the sake of the objectives of the Organization during her presidency. In general we can say that this historic and successful event has once again demonstrated the will of peace, respect and integration of the peoples of Latin America and the Caribbean. The Summit had very emotional moments as the tribute to the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez Frias, one of the creators of this organization and the meetings held by the Commander Fidel Castro Ruz with many of the attending heads of State and Government.