Syrian government rejects chemical restriction adopted by OPCW
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the Syrian government rejected on Sunday the measures adopted by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on Nov. 30 that would to restrict chemical transfers to the Syrian authorities.
“This decision represents a deviation from the framework of the agreement that regulates the work of the Organization,” the foreign ministry said in a statement. “And also contains procedures that violate the texts and provisions of International Law and the Charter of the United Nations.”
On Nov. 30, the OPCW adopted measures that would restrict chemical transfers to the Syrian government. This decision, put forward by 48 countries, highlighted concerns regarding the Syrian government’s possession and use of chemical weapons, as well as its failure to comply with the Convention’s requirements.
Syria’s foreign ministry said that the resolution represents the “isolationist positions of Western countries.” It went on to accuse the countries voted for the resolution of “supporting terrorism” in Syria.
The ministry held the Western countries responsible for the impacts of the resolution, urging the “Technical Secretariat to adhere to the provisions of the Convention, to carry out a thorough review of its approach and its reports.”
The OPCW decision called for support and assistance in criminal investigations and proceedings, including cooperation with the UN-established International, Impartial, and Independent Mechanism (IIIM).