The year 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the United Nations. The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons is an integral part of the U.N.-centered international system, and a key pillar of global security governance. Since the establishment of the OPCW 28 years ago, the States Parties have, in the spirit of multilateralism, solidarity and cooperation, forged historic achievements in chemical weapons disarmament and international cooperation, and made the OPCW one of the most universal and effective international organizations in the field of international security.

In recent years, under the influence of geopolitics, the OPCW has witnessed a growing tendency toward politicization and division, and a gradual departure from the spirit of multilateralism in addressing certain hotspot and controversial issues. The tradition of decision-making by consensus is challenged, as constructive dialogue and communication among the States Parties is diminishing and calling for a vote is increasingly defaulted to. The authority of the Chemical Weapons Convention is eroded, which has caused the deep concerns of the States Parties.

Against this backdrop, China appeals to all States Parties to recommit to the Chemical Weapons Convention, uphold the vision of multilateralism with coordination and cooperation as its cornerstone, advance true multilateralism, and effectively enhance solidarity and cooperation.

First, adhering to the object and purpose of the Chemical Weapons Convention. The Convention, which eventually entered into force after 24 years of negotiation, embodies our predecessors’ vision of a world free of chemical weapons and in which chemical industry is used for the benefit of mankind. The States Parties should implement the core provisions of the Convention in a full and balanced manner, and continuously enhance the authority and efficacy of the Convention. Adherence to the Convention must not be selective, applied only when it serves one’s own interests and disregarded when it does not. The Convention must not be misinterpreted, and even less be set aside to create a completely separate system. The States Parties should focus on new challenges in global security governance and the latest developments of emerging science and technology, adapt the Convention to the times, and jointly pursue the transformation and development of the OPCW. The States Parties should analyze the non-proliferation situation related to chemical weapons in a scientific manner, actively promote the reform of the industry inspection mechanism, and consider specific measures to optimize inspection arrangements.

Second, upholding multilateralism. Matters of the OPCW should be addressed through collective consultations among the States Parties. Major issues concerning the principles of the Convention and the long-term development of the OPCW should be decided upon by the Policy Making Organs following thorough discussion and consultation. The States Parties must uphold objectivity and fairness based on the merits of issues, maintain the tradition of decision-making by consensus, and address hotspot and controversial issues through dialogue and consultation.

Third, safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries. The OPCW’s governance should be improved, and the composition of its Policy Making Organs should be more consistent with the principle of equitable geographical representation, to ensure the full and equal participation of developing countries and make the decision-making process more inclusive and equitable. More resources should be allocated to the priority issues of developing countries, such as international cooperation, and bolster their international cooperation in the field of chemical activities, thereby catalyzing their broader economic and technological progress. The decision on the Action Plan on Geographical Representation should be implemented, to provide more opportunities for talent from developing countries to work in the Technical Secretariat.

Fourth, enhancing solidarity and coordination. The history of the OPCW demonstrates that solidarity leads to shared progress, while division brings common setbacks. It is imperative to rise above narrow geopolitical considerations, embrace the spirit of mutual respect, understanding and accommodation, replace confrontation with cooperation, and jointly tackle the challenges of our times. Major countries should assume greater responsibility in upholding solidarity and promoting cooperation. The States Parties should pool the strengths of multiple stakeholders in the chemical field, and encourage and support exchanges and dialogue among the national authorities of States Parties, chemical industries and research institutions, especially those from developing countries, to share best practices and promote practical cooperation.