New york: The State of Qatar has underscored the critical need for the comprehensive implementation of international conventions and treaties aimed at prohibiting and disarming weapons of mass destruction. This commitment is seen as essential to ensuring the safety of future generations and protecting the planet.
According to Qatar News Agency, this statement was delivered by Ahmed Abdullah Al Obaidly, a member of the Qatari delegation at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Speaking before the First Committee on the topic of “Other Weapons of Mass Destruction,” Al Obaidly emphasized that the existence and use of weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons, pose a threat to state security and violate fundamental human rights, particularly the right to life.
Al Obaidly highlighted the increased risk posed by the potential acquisition of these weapons by non-state actors. He also noted Qatar’s ongoing efforts to update national legislation related to weapons of mass destruction, in line with its international obligations.
He further explained Qatar’s collaboration with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to strengthen its role in implementing the convention. Qatar is hosting the 12th Annual Meeting of Representatives of the Chemical Industry and National Authorities of States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention from October 21 to 24 in Doha. This meeting aims to enhance cooperation between the chemical industry and national authorities.
Qatar welcomed the OPCW Executive Council’s resolution on the accelerated destruction of remaining chemical weapons in Syria. As the representative of Syria within the OPCW, Qatar submitted the draft resolution, which was co-sponsored by over 50 countries, supporting the international community’s efforts in chemical weapons elimination.
The statement also mentioned Qatar’s organization of the Arab Forum on Arms Control, Disarmament, and Non-Proliferation, which was last held in Doha from June 4 to 6, 2024. Additionally, Qatar hosted a regional training course in 2024 to enhance the implementation of the Biological Weapons Convention, aiming to exchange information and expertise among national focal points in the Middle East and North Africa.