Chemical Weapons Convention mentorship program between
Sri Lanka and Malaysia held in Colombo
July 02, 2024
The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) mentorship program between Sri Lanka and Malaysia was successfully conducted from June 24 to 28 in Colombo with the active participation from a range of relevant stakeholders in Sri Lanka.
During the program, Malaysian officials engaged in productive dialogue with the Additional Secretary (Defence Services) of the Ministry of Defence Jayantha Edirisinghe. This meeting underscored the collaborative spirit and shared goals between the two nations in enhancing chemical weapons control and ensuring regional security.
The program was initiated by the Director of the National Authority for Implementation of Chemical Weapons Convention (NACWC) Rear Admiral Ravi Ranasinghe. The Undersecretary of the NACWC Dr. Raja Subramaniam led the Malaysian delegation.
The mentorship program encompassed a series of comprehensive sessions designed to bolster the capacities of both nations in implementing OPCW regulations effectively. Topics covered during the program included Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) legislation, CWC trade and customs control, best practices in chemical safety and security, advancements in chemical weapons detection and laboratory technologies, and strategies for improving national compliance with the CWC.
Officials from both countries had the opportunity to visit the Industrial Technology Institute of Sri Lanka (ITI-SL) during the program. This visit aimed to analyse the institute's capabilities for attending future OPCW Proficiency Tests and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise.
The successful completion of this mentorship program marks a significant milestone in the on-going cooperation between Sri Lanka and Malaysia within the OPCW framework. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the principles of the CWC and working towards a secure and peaceful world.
