Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention : National Statement by Ambassador Anupam Ray at the Biological Weapons Convention - Article V Consultations8 September 2022, Geneva

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National Statement by Ambassador Anupam Ray at the Biological Weapons Convention - Article V Consultations8 September 2022, Geneva

Mr. Chairman,

We would like to congratulate you on your being elected to Chair this meeting.

We assure you of our fullest cooperation.

Mr. Chairman,

India attaches high importance to the BWC which is the first non-discriminatory disarmament treaty banning a complete category of weapons of mass destruction.

We remain committed to enhancing the effectiveness of the BWC and strengthening its implementation in letter and spirit. The Review Conference later this year will provide an opportunity to engage on all aspects of the BWC, including various areas that have been under discussion in the framework of the Convention.

Mr. Chairman,

Art X of the BWC provides a framework for international co-operation in the field of peaceful biological activities. It allows States parties who are in a position to do so, to co-operate individually or together with other States or international organisations to further development and application of scientific discoveries in the field of bacteriology (biology) for the prevention of disease, or for other peaceful purposes.

India would like to underline the important role of international cooperation in the field of peaceful biological activities and related exchange of scientific and technical information as provided in Art X of the BWC. India believes that the full and effective implementation of Article X of the Convention is important to generate equitable benefits for States Parties, in particular developing countries.

Mr. Chairman,

The recent, and continuing, example of the Covid pandemic, and the importance of cooperation among entities in different nations in responding to it, inter alia in the field of vaccines and drugs, attests to the vital importance of international cooperation in biosciences. Any matter relating to obligations under the BWC should be addressed as per the provisions of the Convention and through consultations and cooperation between the parties concerned.