India Expresses Concern over Use of Chemical Weapons

The Hague [Netherlands], Oct 10 (ANI): India has expressed its concerns over allegations of use of chemical weapons in different parts of the world.

Addressing the 89th session of the Executive Council of Organization for Prevention of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), Ambassador and Permanent Representative of India to OPCW, Venu Rajamony said, "India shares the wide-spread concern over allegations of the use of chemical weapons in different parts of the world. It is also deeply worried about the reports of the so-called 'Islamic State' or ISIS/ISIL acquiring chemical weapons and their delivery systems. India requests the technical secretariat to closely monitor this threat and report to the Executive Council on this emerging challenge."

"India attaches great importance to the Convention which embodies the global norm against the use of chemical weapons, and stands for its full, effective and non-discriminatory implementation," the ambassador added.

He further said that more than 96 per cent of chemical weapons stockpiles declared by possessor states have been destroyed under OPCW verification, adding "India hopes that the remaining chemical weapons stockpiles will also be destroyed soon."

Rajamony also noted that OPCW has achieved much success in moving towards the goal of a world free of chemical weapons and the threat of their use. "However, there is no room for complacency especially in the light of emerging challenges such as the discovery of new toxic chemicals and rapid advancements in deployment and dissemination of chemical weapons," he added.

He further said that any allegations of use of chemical weapons should be addressed in an effective and timely manner and strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Convention.

"All investigations in this regard should be impartial and objective and must strive to establish facts and reach evidence-based conclusions. We also urge that all provisions of the Convention be utilised to address concerns in accordance with the procedures laid down in the Convention," he asserted.

He also pointed out that the easy access to raw materials and technical know-how, including through the internet makes it relatively easier for criminal elements to produce chemical weapons.

Rajamony noted, "India remains willing and open for discussions with States Parties to find ways and means to strengthen the Convention and its effective implementation, within the framework of the Convention. Our efforts in the OPCW should help to eliminate all possibilities of any future use of chemical weapons and uphold the global norm against the use of chemical weapons." (ANI)

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