Germany’s contribution to the OPCW-UN mission in Syria

> “The destruction of chemical weapons could mark the first decisive step towards defusing the conflict in Syria. As, contrary to what many had expected, Syrian chemical weapons could be quickly identified, secured and removed, the international community has an obligation to ensure they are destroyed.

> No-one who takes their international responsibility seriously can refuse to live up to this obligation. That also applies to our country, as we have fully developed technical facilities for destroying chemical substances. It is especially important that agreements are honoured for we are facing the next stage in difficult negotiations and it is essential that the reliability of the international community’s pledges is beyond doubt.”

Defence Minister von der Leyen issued the following statement today (9 January):

> “Advancing the peace process in Syria is an extraordinary international effort towards which many countries have already pledged their commitment. Germany has safe technology and many years of experience with the destruction of the residuals of chemical warfare agents. It makes sense for us to place our expertise at the disposal of the international community and thus make a valuable contribution towards the peace p