Rapidly Evolving Technology Requires Identifying New Ways to Face Chemical-Weapon Disarmament Challenges, Secretary-General Says at Conference on Safety, Security

Following is UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s message to the Conference on Chemical Safety and Security in a Technologically Evolving World, in The Hague today:

I am pleased to greet the Conference on Chemical Safety and Security in a Technologically Evolving World.  I am also pleased that this conference celebrates the first annual International Day for the Foundation of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).

The United Nations and the OPCW are longstanding allies in the cause of eliminating weapons of mass destruction, including through our joint efforts in the Syrian Arab Republic.  This alliance continues to deepen.  I commend the OPCW for its tireless efforts to foster international cooperation both for disarmament and in facilitating the use of chemistry for the betterment of humanity.

Science and technology continue to evolve rapidly.  Identifying future challenges and opportunities for chemical disarmament must be a priority.  Much work lies ahead to reach the international community’s goal of a world without weapons of mass destruction.

On this first International Day for the Foundation of the OPCW, let us recognize progress and reaffirm our commitment to this essential effort.  Please accept my best wishes for a successful conference.