Qatar affirms commitment to elimination of chemical weapons

Qatar participated in the 108th session of the Executive Council of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), held in The Hague.Qatar's delegation to the session was chaired by ambassador and representative of Qatar to the OPCW Dr. Mutlaq bin Majid Al Qahtani.In his speech, HE Al Qahtani affirmed Qatar's firm commitment to supporting the OPCW's efforts to fully eliminate chemical weapons and enhance international security and stability, stressing the importance of transparency and multilateral cooperation in promoting the disarmament of these weapons.He said Qatar, as an active OPCW Executive Council member, reflects on the progress achieved, the obstacles overcome, and the challenges that remain, primarily the situation in Syria, which requires the members to continue their collective responsibility and effective engagement.He pointed out the need to support the Syrian people for a better future, noting that Syria remains a key focus of the OPCW's mission, and represents a measure of progress and evidence of the strength of cooperative efforts.He explained that the constructive communication between the OPCW and Syria, with constructive support from Qatar, embodies how continuous diplomacy and purposeful dialogue can enhance confidence in the mission of this organisation.This initiative was part of broader efforts to facilitate dialogue, mediation, rebuild trust, promote openness and strengthen co-operation, which are essential components of collective quest for peace, security and stability, and the State of Qatar will continue to represent Syria's interests in the organisation until a permanent representative is appointed, he added.Expressing his thanks to all OPCW States Parties for their continued support and spirit of cooperation, His Excellency noted that their contributions were essential in promoting common goals within the OPCW.His Excellency explained the need to build on this momentum to continue strengthening international safeguards against chemical weapons, stressing that their use, including the use of toxic chemicals as weapons, by any party, anywhere, and under any circumstances, whether by a State Party, a non-State Party, or non-governmental entities, is completely condemned and completely inconsistent with the provisions of the Chemical Weapons Convention and international law, stressing the importance of holding accountable those responsible for these violations.