Delhi, 3 July (H.S.): The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), effective since 1997, is enforced by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), which consists of 193 Member States focused on eliminating chemical weapons globally. India is a founding signatory, with the National Authority Chemical Weapons Convention (NACWC) overseeing implementation. In 2024, NACWC mentored the Kenya National Authority to enhance its capacity under the OPCW's Mentorship Programme.

The Indian Chemical Council (ICC), the nation's oldest chemical industry association, collaborates with NACWC to promote industry compliance with the CWC. ICC's significant contributions to chemical safety led to it co-receiving the OPCW-The Hague Award 2024, marking a historic recognition for a chemical industry body globally for advancing CWC goals.

OPCW conducts annual Regional Meetings of National Authorities to facilitate capacity building, experience sharing, and best practices for CWC implementation, fostering cooperation amongst national authorities. The 23rd Regional Meeting for States Parties in Asia was held in New Delhi, participated by 38 delegates from 24 Asian countries alongside OPCW and UN officials.

During the meeting, delegates exchanged experiences and addressed challenges regarding national implementation of CWC, discussing legislative frameworks, chemical safety, stakeholder roles, and the influence of Artificial Intelligence. The OPCW outlined synergies between UN Security Council Resolution 1540 and the CWC and explored future Mentorship Partnership Programmes. The three-day gathering aims to enhance regional collaboration among Asian nations in implementing the CWC effectively.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar