The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) hosted the Industry and Protection Forum (IPF) on 1 and 2 November 2007 in The Hague. The objectives of the meeting were to discuss issues relating to the verification and implementation of the Convention from the perspective of the chemical industry, assistance and protection against the threat or use of chemical weapons, and safety and security at chemical plants. Almost 200 representatives from the chemical industry, OPCW National Authorities, national institutions, laboratories, and the scientific and academic communities attended this event. The Forum was one of the events organised this year to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the entry into force of the Chemical Weapons Convention.
In his opening statement, OPCW Director-General, H.E. Ambassador Rogelio Pfirter, expressed his hope that the IPF will begin a process of interaction and dialogue that will hopefully lead to a new quality of multi-stakeholder involvement in the process of implementation of the Convention and in enhancing non-proliferation. He noted that such a global dialogue and a structured feedback process would complement the regular work of the policy-making organs and the advisory bodies of the OPCW.
Mr Jack Gerard, President and CEO of the American Chemistry Council (ACC), speaking on behalf of the International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA), said that the OPCW’s work represents a notable example of cooperation between nations, between national chemical associations under the ICCA umbrella, and between governments and the ICCA. He also remarked that the cooperation among those involved with the implementation of the CWC is crucial for compliance with the obligations of the Convention. He emphasised that the ICCA is ready to provide the requisite technical assistance and industry insight.
The Forum offered a unique opportunity for beneficial interaction between the chemical industry, the OPCW, the National Authorities and Member States and it also identified further avenues for enhancing collaboration for the effective implementation of the CWC. Matters relating to the safety and security of chemical plants and shipments were also discussed keeping in view the current international environment.
The Forum received financial support from the European Union Joint Action that supports OPCW activities in the framework of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction, the European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC), and the International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA).
The proceedings of the Forum are available on-line: www.opcwipf.org.
PR112/2007