Participants at a Regional Training Course for Customs Authorities of States Parties in Asia on the Technical Aspects of the Transfers Regime of the Chemical Weapons Convention, which was held held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 25 to 28 August 2015.
The OPCW, in cooperation with the National Authority of the Kingdom of Thailand, organised a regional training course for customs officers of States Parties in Asia on the Technical Aspects of the Transfers Regime of the Chemical Weapons Convention in Bangkok from 25 – 28 August 2015. The course, which was held in collaboration with the World Customs Organisation (WCO), was attended by 50 participants from 17 States Parties.*
The course, designed as a Train of Trainers (TOT) Programme, attracted participation from national customs authorities. This was the first time that such a course was organized in collaboration with the WCO. The course sought to focus on imparting comprehensive knowledge about the Convention’s transfer regime, in order to improve the ability of participating States Parties to track and control transfers of scheduled chemicals. It aimed at imparting relevant training and information to customs officials from the region to enable them to effectively contribute towards enhancing the ability to monitor the trade in scheduled chemicals. The course also facilitated fostering of contacts and networking amongst the participating customs authorities.
Dr. Pasu Loharjun, Director General, Department of Industrial Works, Government of the Kingdom of Thailand, in his opening remarks emphasized the important role played by customs officers in supporting the implementation of the Convention. He welcomed the efforts of the OPCW for capacity building in States Parties and pledged the support of Thailand in this regard.
*Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Fiji, India, Iran, Jordan, Malaysia, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Tonga, Thailand, Vanuatu, Vietnam.