Meeting of the States Parties to the Convention
on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and
Stockpiling of Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weapons
and on their Destruction
Introduction
At the outset, I would like to extend to
you, Mr. Freeman, my warm congratulations on your assumption of the
chairmanship of this meeting of the States Parties to the BWC. I assure you of my delegation’s
unwavering support as you guide us to a fruitful conclusion. I would also like to thank the
Secretariat and all those who have put great time and effort into preparing
this meeting.
Three-Year
Programme of Work: assessment of this year’s work
Mr. Chairman, the topic of this year, “Codes
of Conduct for Scientists” is extremely important in the context of the
BWC. These codes will strengthen
the BWC regime, by avoiding the risk of the misuse of dangerous pathogens and
research results handled by scientists.
Throughout the Meeting of Experts in June, a
diverse range of input was gained from the participating researchers and
scientists. Furthermore, the
preparation for and the follow-up to the meeting generated an awareness of the
issues relating to, amongst others, the ethical responsibilities of scientists,
both domestically and internationally.
The synthesis paper prepared by the Chairman
is an excellent compilation of the discussions of the Meeting of Experts and a
very useful basis for further considerations, examinations and improvement of codes
of conduct for scientists.
From the perspective of strengthening the
BWC, the “Codes of Conduct for Scientists” encompasses a number of important
ideas. A great deal of relevant
rules and regulations already exist, and their contents vary greatly between
countries, institutions and professional organizations. It is therefore useful that we specify
common elements that could be used to improve or develop codes of conduct
specific to individual institutions or organizations.
On this point,
The
Sixth Review Conference
Mr. Chairman, the three-year programme of work will be completed with the conclusion of
this meeting. One of our tasks at
the Sixth Review Conference next year will be to consider the work of the
meetings for the past three years and decide on any further action. Therefore, it is essential at this
stage, for the States Parties to commence preparatory work, such as examine the
outcomes of these meetings, identify the elements that can contribute to the
strengthening of the BWC, and specify concrete further actions.
This meeting will be the last opportunity
for many States Parties to meet before the Preparatory Committee next year. Therefore, for the successful outcome of
next year’s Review Conference,
Thank you.