Pakistan has urged Syria to fulfill its obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention, highlighting the opportunity presented by new interim authorities. Ambassador Munir Akram emphasized the necessity for compliance, ongoing dialogue, and the importance of a political resolution for Syria’s stabilization, while condemning the use of chemical weapons indiscriminately.
The interim authorities in Syria present a crucial opportunity to eliminate chemical weapons and comply with the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), as stated by Pakistan at the UN Security Council meeting. Ambassador Munir Akram emphasized the need for all members to seize this moment to address the unresolved issues pertaining to chemical weapons in Syria.
Ambassador Akram urged for ongoing dialogue, cooperative actions, and full adherence to the CWC and Security Council resolutions to expedite the closure of the Syrian chemical weapons dossier. This approach aligns with the resolution requiring Syria to declare and destroy its chemical arsenal under the supervision of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), amidst warnings of consequences under Chapter VII of the UN Charter for non-compliance.
Since Syria’s accession to the CWC in 2013, the OPCW has continuously highlighted concerns over the accuracy of Syria’s declarations regarding its chemical weapons. Pakistan boldly condemned the use of chemical weapons in all circumstances, underscoring its commitment to the CWC as a vital component of global arms control and disarmament efforts.
Ambassador Akram stressed Pakistan’s dedication to promoting the objectives of the CWC while ensuring the OPCW maintains its efficacy and impartiality in verifying compliance. Furthermore, he called for universal adherence to the CWC to ensure its effective and equitable implementation.
In addition to disarmament efforts, Pakistan supports a political resolution in Syria, advocating for a process that is owned and led by Syrians with UN facilitation. Ambassador Akram also emphasized the necessity of maintaining Syria’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, asserting that access to weapons of mass destruction, including chemical arms, must be denied to terrorists, in line with Security Council resolution 1540 (2004).
In conclusion, Pakistan’s statements at the UN reflect a strong commitment to addressing chemical weapons issues in Syria through international cooperation and adherence to established conventions. The emphasis on a political process for stabilization and the prevention of terrorist access to weapons of mass destruction underscores Pakistan’s dedication to both disarmament and the integrity of Syria’s sovereignty. Engagement and compliance with the CWC remain pivotal for achieving lasting peace and security in the region.
Original Source: dunyanews.tv
